By Ewah Chika.
Very few people knew 19-year-old Bartosz Kaputska before the Euro's in the summer but soon after Euro's the KSC Cracovia (oldest Polish club) attacking midfielder became a household name even though his native Poland crashed out on penalties in the quarter-final to eventual winners Portugal.
The youngster has been so good that he was not only drafted straight into the national team of Poland at 19 years but also ended up making only one appearance each for both the Polish U-17 and U-18 teams.
Football, political and forensic qualitative editorial
Sunday 31 July 2016
Will Timothy Fosu-Mensah Be Given The Mata And Casillas Treatment By Jose Mourinho?
By Ewah Chika.
Jose Mourinho has made some bold and career defining calls in his career that either helped or made his case worse depending on how you look at it.
From the ostracising of Real Madrid and Spanish legend and captain Iker Casilas to his replacement with unheralded Diego Lopez . Also worthy of mention is the sale of Chelsea fans favourite and two
Jose Mourinho has made some bold and career defining calls in his career that either helped or made his case worse depending on how you look at it.
From the ostracising of Real Madrid and Spanish legend and captain Iker Casilas to his replacement with unheralded Diego Lopez . Also worthy of mention is the sale of Chelsea fans favourite and two
How Will Posterity Judge Bafetimi Gomis As He Departs Swansea For Marseille ?
By Ewah Chika.
Six goals in 33 league games (18 starts) isn't an impressive stat for a striker but that is exactly the sort of stat new Marseille forward Bafetimbi Gomis who left Swansea for the Southern French club this summer can boast of. Marseille have moved quickly to sign the forward on loan even though there is a big uncertainty at the club following the inability of current owner Margarita Louis Dreyfus to
Six goals in 33 league games (18 starts) isn't an impressive stat for a striker but that is exactly the sort of stat new Marseille forward Bafetimbi Gomis who left Swansea for the Southern French club this summer can boast of. Marseille have moved quickly to sign the forward on loan even though there is a big uncertainty at the club following the inability of current owner Margarita Louis Dreyfus to
Saturday 30 July 2016
Why The 2016/2017 Season Represents A Make Or Break Season For Ruben Loftus-Cheek At Chelsea.
By Ewah Chika.
Chelsea Football Club might be the most successful English club judging from post-2003 which is also the year Russian billionaire Roman Abramovic bought the club. Yet one thing that the club lacks is their inability to produce their own stars (home growth talent). Boasting one of the most successful academy in England that has won the Youth Champions League more than once, Youth FA Cup and Youth League, it is appalling that no player from the club's academy has been successful in the first team since Roman Abramovich bought the club. John a Terry still remains the last Chelsea academy graduate to play consistently for the first team since making his debut on 28 October 1998 in the League Cup against Aston Villa. As Chelsea continues to enjoy one success or the other, academy stars such as Ryan Betrand (Southampton) and
Chelsea Football Club might be the most successful English club judging from post-2003 which is also the year Russian billionaire Roman Abramovic bought the club. Yet one thing that the club lacks is their inability to produce their own stars (home growth talent). Boasting one of the most successful academy in England that has won the Youth Champions League more than once, Youth FA Cup and Youth League, it is appalling that no player from the club's academy has been successful in the first team since Roman Abramovich bought the club. John a Terry still remains the last Chelsea academy graduate to play consistently for the first team since making his debut on 28 October 1998 in the League Cup against Aston Villa. As Chelsea continues to enjoy one success or the other, academy stars such as Ryan Betrand (Southampton) and
Can Antonie Conte Get The Best Out Of Serbian Nemanja Matic?
By Ewah Chika.
Nemanja Matic might have had the worst season of his professional career in Chelsea last season,
but even as his place in the team looks less likely considering the signing of N'Golo Kante from Leicester City for £30 million, Matic has made it publicly clear he is staying at the club to fight for his place in the team this season.
"I am sure that 100,000 players want to come to play for Chelsea so there is always competition, all life is a fight so every player is ready for that ," were the words of the Serbian on Wednesday while with the team for pre-season in the US.
The debate over the future of Matic is coming considering the highly anticipated playing style and formation of Italian manager Antonie Conte who plans on playing a 4-2-4 formation in Chelsea this season which puts the future of the Serbian in doubt considering Kante is the defensive midfielder
Nemanja Matic might have had the worst season of his professional career in Chelsea last season,
but even as his place in the team looks less likely considering the signing of N'Golo Kante from Leicester City for £30 million, Matic has made it publicly clear he is staying at the club to fight for his place in the team this season.
"I am sure that 100,000 players want to come to play for Chelsea so there is always competition, all life is a fight so every player is ready for that ," were the words of the Serbian on Wednesday while with the team for pre-season in the US.
The debate over the future of Matic is coming considering the highly anticipated playing style and formation of Italian manager Antonie Conte who plans on playing a 4-2-4 formation in Chelsea this season which puts the future of the Serbian in doubt considering Kante is the defensive midfielder
Gianluigi Donnarumma (AC Milan): The Apparent Heir To Gianluigi Buffon.
By Ewah Chika.
Gianluigi Donnarumma does not only share the same first name with Italy and Juventus legend Gianluigi Buffon who at 38 still remains Italy's No.1 and one of the best in the game.
The youngster is still 17 but already AC.Milan's No.1 displacing veterans like Diego Lopez and Christian Abbiati to become the indispensable goalkeeper for the club last season. Donnarumma
Gianluigi Donnarumma does not only share the same first name with Italy and Juventus legend Gianluigi Buffon who at 38 still remains Italy's No.1 and one of the best in the game.
The youngster is still 17 but already AC.Milan's No.1 displacing veterans like Diego Lopez and Christian Abbiati to become the indispensable goalkeeper for the club last season. Donnarumma
Once Hailed Brazil Great Kid, What Has Happened To Alex Pato?
By Ewah Chika.
By Ewah Chika.
Alexandre Rodrigues da Silva Pato is only 26-years-old, but when his name is mentioned it seems he is already in his mid 30's. This is due to the Brazilian's exploits in his hey days while still a youngster in AC Milan. One of Pato's golden moments is his dazzling and mesmerising run dummying the likes
By Ewah Chika.
Alexandre Rodrigues da Silva Pato is only 26-years-old, but when his name is mentioned it seems he is already in his mid 30's. This is due to the Brazilian's exploits in his hey days while still a youngster in AC Milan. One of Pato's golden moments is his dazzling and mesmerising run dummying the likes
Is Alex Song Another One Who Failed To Fulfil His Talent ?
By Ewah Chika.
Alexandre Dimitri Song Billong might be 28 which is the age most footballers hit their peak but that cannot be said of the defensive midfielder who appears to have regressed since moving to Barcelona four years ago from Arsenal for £15 million. It is laughable that the player who recently joined Rubin Kazan on loan on Monday has a £63 million release clause in his contract with Barcelona which shows the high expectation Barcelona had before signing him.
"I'm very happy to come here and be a part of the project being built in Kazan.
"The club hopes to establish itself as the biggest team in Russian football in the next four years and I hope to make a great impact towards that," Song told the club's official TV channel after signing on loan on Monday .
No disrespect for Rubin Kazan but it is disheartening that Song at this point in his career will not only be trying to revive his career in the Russian league but also in Rubin Kazan. Rubin do not even at present belong to one of the top clubs in Russia as only the likes of CSKA Moscow and Zenith Saint Petersburg are the only two that have that European recognition.
The Cameroonian began his career in French Ligue 1 club Bastia before moving to Arsenal on loan in
Alexandre Dimitri Song Billong might be 28 which is the age most footballers hit their peak but that cannot be said of the defensive midfielder who appears to have regressed since moving to Barcelona four years ago from Arsenal for £15 million. It is laughable that the player who recently joined Rubin Kazan on loan on Monday has a £63 million release clause in his contract with Barcelona which shows the high expectation Barcelona had before signing him.
"I'm very happy to come here and be a part of the project being built in Kazan.
"The club hopes to establish itself as the biggest team in Russian football in the next four years and I hope to make a great impact towards that," Song told the club's official TV channel after signing on loan on Monday .
No disrespect for Rubin Kazan but it is disheartening that Song at this point in his career will not only be trying to revive his career in the Russian league but also in Rubin Kazan. Rubin do not even at present belong to one of the top clubs in Russia as only the likes of CSKA Moscow and Zenith Saint Petersburg are the only two that have that European recognition.
The Cameroonian began his career in French Ligue 1 club Bastia before moving to Arsenal on loan in
Is Belgian Axel Witsel The Right Replacement For Departing Paul Pogba?
By Ewah Chika.
Juventus may have lost a rare gem in Paul Pogba after the attacking midfielder joined Manchester United for a record €110 million. To fill the void left by the midfielder's departure, Juventus are reported to be in the transfer market to sign Zenith St. Petersburg and Belgian box-to-box midfielder Axel Witsel.
Juventus may have lost a rare gem in Paul Pogba after the attacking midfielder joined Manchester United for a record €110 million. To fill the void left by the midfielder's departure, Juventus are reported to be in the transfer market to sign Zenith St. Petersburg and Belgian box-to-box midfielder Axel Witsel.
Tuesday 26 July 2016
The Welsh Xavi: Will Stoke City See The Best Of Joe Allen ?
By Ewah Chika.
Stoke City is one Premier League club that is surprising quiet in the current transfer window . With the likes of Liverpool, Manchester United and Bournemouth having made more than three signings already, Mark Hughes' side had only signed unknown Egyptian winger Ramadan Sobhi from Al Alhy in Egypt.
This is the reason the signing of former Liverpool Welsh central midfielder Joe Allen for £13 million on a five year deal on Monday didn't come as a surprise. Allen was tipped for the big stage during his time in Swansea with Brendan Rodgers before his plummeting during his time at Liverpool under both Brendan Rodgers and Jurgen Klopp.
"I was really excited as soon as I heard of the club's (Stoke ) interest and It wasn't a difficult decision for me to make. I am incredibly excited about my future here at Stoke City," Allen said after signing for the club .
Allen is an early developer after making his professional debut aged 16 in January 2007 for Swansea in League One. The midfielder shined in his debut season in the Premier League which was the reason he was signed for £15 million by Liverpool in 2012.
The signing of the midfielder is a good move for Stoke who under Hughes (appointed in 2013) seem to be punching above their height finishing in the top half of the table for two years successively. Hughes has also being credited with the changing of the club's long-ball playing style which was the style of Tony Pulis. Stoke now play with flair as the likes of
Nigerian National Assembly: From Change Agents To Global Sex Offenders.
By Ewah Chika.
Mohammed Garba Gbolo (Bauchi), Samuel Ikon (Akwa Ibom) and Mark Gbillah (Benue) all have one thing in common and that is their indictment by the US for alleged sexual misconduct while away in the US.
Mohammed Garba Gbolo (Bauchi), Samuel Ikon (Akwa Ibom) and Mark Gbillah (Benue) all have one thing in common and that is their indictment by the US for alleged sexual misconduct while away in the US.
Can David Moyes Change The Fortunes Of Sunderland?
By Ewah Chika.
Sunderland have moved quickly to appoint former Everton and Manchester United manager David Moyes as Sam Allardycee's successor on Friday. Though the exit of Allardycee was met with anguish
Sunderland have moved quickly to appoint former Everton and Manchester United manager David Moyes as Sam Allardycee's successor on Friday. Though the exit of Allardycee was met with anguish
Is Jurgen Klopp Right In Signing Newcastle's Georgino Wijnaldum For £23 Million?
By Ewah Chika.
Liverpool seems undone in the transfer window after signing the likes of Sadio Mane and Joel Matip this summer. The Anfield side who were once linked with Borussia Dortmund new signing but have now suddenly signed former Newcastle attacking midfielder Georgino Wjinaldum for £23million which is £1 million more than what Dortmund paid Bayern for Mario Gotze on Thursday.
Liverpool seems undone in the transfer window after signing the likes of Sadio Mane and Joel Matip this summer. The Anfield side who were once linked with Borussia Dortmund new signing but have now suddenly signed former Newcastle attacking midfielder Georgino Wjinaldum for £23million which is £1 million more than what Dortmund paid Bayern for Mario Gotze on Thursday.
Monday 25 July 2016
How The Signing Of Gonzalo Higuain By Juventus Will Change Their History.
By Ewah Chika.
Juventus might have agreed a deal to sell Paul Pogba to Manchester United for a world record €110 million but that does not in any way change the fact that Juve is a team on the rise and could do better without the French man.
Juventus might have agreed a deal to sell Paul Pogba to Manchester United for a world record €110 million but that does not in any way change the fact that Juve is a team on the rise and could do better without the French man.
Is There Life For Leicester City After The Exit Of Steve Walsh (Chief Scout)?
By Ewah Chika.
Everton might have underachieved all these years and cannot be classified as a European heavyweight but gradually the club is making a steady progress to the top. It all started with the sale of the club's 49% shares to Iranian billionaire Moshiri Fah'd to the appointment of Ronald Koeman as coach after his impressive work in Southampton and now the appointment of Leicester City's Chief
Everton might have underachieved all these years and cannot be classified as a European heavyweight but gradually the club is making a steady progress to the top. It all started with the sale of the club's 49% shares to Iranian billionaire Moshiri Fah'd to the appointment of Ronald Koeman as coach after his impressive work in Southampton and now the appointment of Leicester City's Chief
Borussia Dortmund Show Their Resilience With Wise And Massive Transfer Signings.
By Ewah Chika.
A minute can change many things and paper many cracks in football and what exactly explains such statement is the report that Borussia Dortmund have resigned German international Mario Gotze for £22 million from Bayern Munich after losing such stars like Matts Hummels (Bayern Munich), Ilkay Gundogan (Manchester City) and Henrikh Mkhtaryan (Manchester United) this season.
A minute can change many things and paper many cracks in football and what exactly explains such statement is the report that Borussia Dortmund have resigned German international Mario Gotze for £22 million from Bayern Munich after losing such stars like Matts Hummels (Bayern Munich), Ilkay Gundogan (Manchester City) and Henrikh Mkhtaryan (Manchester United) this season.
Badoo's Lynching In Ikorodu: When The Police And State Have Failed The Society.
By Ewah Chika.
By Ewah Chika.
Jungle justice is a very bad practice in Nigeria that must be condemned by all. The main problem of jungle justice is that the accused is not given the luxury to defend him or herself as he is already found guilty even though there is little or no witness during the time of the crime. This makes it easy
By Ewah Chika.
Jungle justice is a very bad practice in Nigeria that must be condemned by all. The main problem of jungle justice is that the accused is not given the luxury to defend him or herself as he is already found guilty even though there is little or no witness during the time of the crime. This makes it easy
Sunday 24 July 2016
Why This Season Might Be Wayne Rooney's Last In Manchester United.
By Ewah Chika.
Wayne Rooney might be Manchester United's highest goalscorer and current captain but that will count for nothing when the team list will be announced for the club's first game in the Premier League next season. It is a general knowledge that Rooney has been going through hard times since
Wayne Rooney might be Manchester United's highest goalscorer and current captain but that will count for nothing when the team list will be announced for the club's first game in the Premier League next season. It is a general knowledge that Rooney has been going through hard times since
How Borussia Dortmund Have Solved Their Left-Back Problem With The Signing Of Portuguese Raphael Guerreiro From Lorient.
By Ewah Chika.
If there is a defender that went to the just concluded Euro's in France unknown but left with his image and rating enhanced then it is no one but Portugal and former Lorient left-back Raphael Guerreiro who signed for Borussia Dortmund for €12 million shortly before the Euro's.
If there is a defender that went to the just concluded Euro's in France unknown but left with his image and rating enhanced then it is no one but Portugal and former Lorient left-back Raphael Guerreiro who signed for Borussia Dortmund for €12 million shortly before the Euro's.
Is The Appointment Of Big Sam (Sam Allardyce) The Best Decision The English FA Could Have Made?
By Ewah Chika.
To the English FA, Sam Allardycee might seem like the best man for England considering the Three Lions have lost their way, morale low, certain quality players unable to play well and their defending and results poor which are critical conditions that have brought out the best in the former Sunderland manager given his successes in Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United, Blackburn Rovers, West Ham and then more recently Sunderland.
To the English FA, Sam Allardycee might seem like the best man for England considering the Three Lions have lost their way, morale low, certain quality players unable to play well and their defending and results poor which are critical conditions that have brought out the best in the former Sunderland manager given his successes in Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle United, Blackburn Rovers, West Ham and then more recently Sunderland.
Can Julen Lopetegui Take Spain Further?
By Ewah Chika.
Vincent Del Bosque might have thought twice about taking the Spanish national team job in 2008 after Luis Aragones stepped down from his role after winning the European Competition in 2008 which was Spain's first major trophy . At the time, Aragones had achieved massive success where
Vincent Del Bosque might have thought twice about taking the Spanish national team job in 2008 after Luis Aragones stepped down from his role after winning the European Competition in 2008 which was Spain's first major trophy . At the time, Aragones had achieved massive success where
Saturday 23 July 2016
Resigned But Not Worn Out, Steve Bruce Leaves Hull City On The High.
By Ewah Chika.
Hull City fans had gone into wild jubilation following Hull's promotion to the English Premiership under manager Steve Bruce but the jubilation soon turned short lived after the club announced the resignation of the former Wigan and Sunderland manager.
Hull City fans had gone into wild jubilation following Hull's promotion to the English Premiership under manager Steve Bruce but the jubilation soon turned short lived after the club announced the resignation of the former Wigan and Sunderland manager.
Is New Barcelona Signing Andre Gomes Simply Overpriced ?
By Ewah Chika.
Barcelona is a club that only strives for nothing but the best and that is why the club consistently splashed an excess of £50 million on each occasion for the signings of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Neymar Junior and the Luis Suarez. Based on these, it is shocking why the club has decided to again splash an excess of €35 million on the signing of Portuguese and Valencia attacking midfielder Andrea Gomes.
Barcelona is a club that only strives for nothing but the best and that is why the club consistently splashed an excess of £50 million on each occasion for the signings of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Neymar Junior and the Luis Suarez. Based on these, it is shocking why the club has decided to again splash an excess of €35 million on the signing of Portuguese and Valencia attacking midfielder Andrea Gomes.
Juan Mata Must Leave Manchester United As Paul Pogba Arrives To Take His Place.
By Ewah Chika.
One Manchester United player that might be cursing his luck following the appointment of Jose Mourinho is no one else but Juan Mata who was sold by the same manager while in Chelsea in 2014 for £37 million .
"Oscar is my No.10. I have to prove to the fans that I am good. Now Mata must do the same," were
One Manchester United player that might be cursing his luck following the appointment of Jose Mourinho is no one else but Juan Mata who was sold by the same manager while in Chelsea in 2014 for £37 million .
"Oscar is my No.10. I have to prove to the fans that I am good. Now Mata must do the same," were
Can Sevilla New Signing Franco Vasquez Improve Jorge Sampaoli's Team?
By Ewah Chika.
As Sevilla continues to rebuild the team in the post-Emery era, one signing that shows the huge ambition of the Andalusian club is the €20 million signing of Argentine born Italian Franco Vazquez from Palermo.
Vazquez may not be a big name in the game but what he lacks in name he makes up with his qualities. Sevilla surely need to strengthen their squad following their failure to finish in the top four
As Sevilla continues to rebuild the team in the post-Emery era, one signing that shows the huge ambition of the Andalusian club is the €20 million signing of Argentine born Italian Franco Vazquez from Palermo.
Vazquez may not be a big name in the game but what he lacks in name he makes up with his qualities. Sevilla surely need to strengthen their squad following their failure to finish in the top four
Friday 22 July 2016
Can Alvaro Negredo Help Middlesbrough Avoid The Drop This Season?
By Ewah Chika.
Alvaro Negredo Sanchez might have flopped during his time in Manchester City considering he only scored one league goal from January 2014 to the end of the season in May (ended that season with nine goals in 32 Premier League games) but that has not dissuaded Aitor Karanka and Middlesbrough from signing him on a season long loan on Wednesday.
Alvaro Negredo Sanchez might have flopped during his time in Manchester City considering he only scored one league goal from January 2014 to the end of the season in May (ended that season with nine goals in 32 Premier League games) but that has not dissuaded Aitor Karanka and Middlesbrough from signing him on a season long loan on Wednesday.
Will Andre Schurlle Finally Succeed In Borussia Dortmund?
By Ewah Chika.
Ousmane Dembele (Rennes), Emre Mor (Nordsjaelland), Sebastian Rode (Bayern Munich), Batra (Bacelona), Raphael Guerreiro (Lorient), Mario Gotze (Bayern Munich) and now Andre Schurlle (Wolfsburg) are the players Borussia Dortmund have recruited this transfer window.
Schurlle though still 25 has played for four different clubs before joining Dortmund since turning professional in 2009 in Mainz 05. Shurlle has also not lasted more than two years at a club since
Ousmane Dembele (Rennes), Emre Mor (Nordsjaelland), Sebastian Rode (Bayern Munich), Batra (Bacelona), Raphael Guerreiro (Lorient), Mario Gotze (Bayern Munich) and now Andre Schurlle (Wolfsburg) are the players Borussia Dortmund have recruited this transfer window.
Schurlle though still 25 has played for four different clubs before joining Dortmund since turning professional in 2009 in Mainz 05. Shurlle has also not lasted more than two years at a club since
Is Manchester United A Step-Down For Paul Pogba?
By Ewah Chika.
It is no longer secret that Paul Pogba (23) is on his way to Manchester United for a world record €110 million after United agreed a deal with Juventus on Thursday. What is a bit confusing is whether such move is based on the need for the midfielder to progress further or for financial gain considering
It is no longer secret that Paul Pogba (23) is on his way to Manchester United for a world record €110 million after United agreed a deal with Juventus on Thursday. What is a bit confusing is whether such move is based on the need for the midfielder to progress further or for financial gain considering
What Next For Nigeria As 50,000 Children Are Projected To Die Of Starvation?
By Ewah Chika.
It is becoming increasingly difficult to fathom the problems troubling Nigeria nor their solution as everything seems to have become bloated all of a sudden. From the high inflation rate to unemployment to lack to social amenities yet this is nothing compared to the present situation in
It is becoming increasingly difficult to fathom the problems troubling Nigeria nor their solution as everything seems to have become bloated all of a sudden. From the high inflation rate to unemployment to lack to social amenities yet this is nothing compared to the present situation in
Thursday 21 July 2016
How Alhaji Lai Mohammed Has Turned From A Comedian To Attention Obesssed Seeker.
By Ewah Chika.
Going by events, ask any Nigerian who is their favourite comedian and they will tell you it is no one but Alhaji Lai Mohammed who is the current Minister of Propaganda or Information depending on your understanding of his role.
The minister took his comedy too far when he told Saden Obu Kusaoke who is the Japanese
Going by events, ask any Nigerian who is their favourite comedian and they will tell you it is no one but Alhaji Lai Mohammed who is the current Minister of Propaganda or Information depending on your understanding of his role.
The minister took his comedy too far when he told Saden Obu Kusaoke who is the Japanese
How Alhaji Lai Mohammed Has Turned From A Comedian To Attention Obesssed Seeker.
By Ewah Chika.
Going by events, ask any Nigerian who is their favourite comedian and they will tell you it is no one but Alhaji Lai Mohammed who is the current Minister of Propaganda or Information depending on your understanding of his role.
The minister took his comedy too far when he told Saden Obu Kusaoke who is the Japanese
Going by events, ask any Nigerian who is their favourite comedian and they will tell you it is no one but Alhaji Lai Mohammed who is the current Minister of Propaganda or Information depending on your understanding of his role.
The minister took his comedy too far when he told Saden Obu Kusaoke who is the Japanese
How Will Posterity Judge Sacked Belgian Coach Marc Wilmots?
By Ewah Chika.
By Ewah Chika.
Marc Wilmots is not just a normal coach, the 47 year-old former Red Devils coach (Belgian national team ) is also his country's all time highest goalscorer in the FIFA World Cup with five goals and a former Senator of his country with the Mouvement Reformateur Party.
Like in other sports, all these were not considered when it was announced by the Belgium FA (KBVB) of his sacking this month after Belgium were knocked out of the just concluded European
By Ewah Chika.
Marc Wilmots is not just a normal coach, the 47 year-old former Red Devils coach (Belgian national team ) is also his country's all time highest goalscorer in the FIFA World Cup with five goals and a former Senator of his country with the Mouvement Reformateur Party.
Like in other sports, all these were not considered when it was announced by the Belgium FA (KBVB) of his sacking this month after Belgium were knocked out of the just concluded European
Lost But Found, What Next For Mario Gotze As He Rejoins Borussia Dortmund?
By Ewah Chika.
It might have taken Mario Gotze so much time to realise his folly in moving to Bavaria but that doesn't mean he won't regain his best form after rejoining hometown club Borussia Dortmund for £22 million on Thurday.
"When I moved from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern in 2003 it was a conscious decision. I will not hide behind this today.
"Three years later and at the age of 24, I look on this decision with a different view. I can understand
It might have taken Mario Gotze so much time to realise his folly in moving to Bavaria but that doesn't mean he won't regain his best form after rejoining hometown club Borussia Dortmund for £22 million on Thurday.
"When I moved from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern in 2003 it was a conscious decision. I will not hide behind this today.
"Three years later and at the age of 24, I look on this decision with a different view. I can understand
Will Alen Halilovic Blossom In Hamburg After Flopping In Barcelona?
By Ewah Chika.
Football fans were shocked when it was revealed that Barcelona had sold Croatian wonder kid Alen Halilovic to Hamburg for €5 million although with a buy-back clause which represents a profit of €2.8 million considering he was signed for €2.2 million in 2014.
Barcelona's loss has now become Hamburg's gain judging from the player's current form.
Wednesday 20 July 2016
Has Juventus Signed A Raw Diamond In Croatian Midfielder Marko Pjaca?
By Ewah Chika.
Juventus are the busiest Seria A club in this transfer market having signed Dani Alves and Miralem Pjanic and Marko Pjaca of Dinamo Zagreb.
It is only natural that Juventus will further strengthen their squad this summer after winning the Seria A four straight times with only one Champions League final appearance to show for all their huge investments since gaining promotion to the Seria A from Seria B in 2007.
Juventus are the busiest Seria A club in this transfer market having signed Dani Alves and Miralem Pjanic and Marko Pjaca of Dinamo Zagreb.
It is only natural that Juventus will further strengthen their squad this summer after winning the Seria A four straight times with only one Champions League final appearance to show for all their huge investments since gaining promotion to the Seria A from Seria B in 2007.
How Will Cameroonian and Former Schalke 04 Defender Joel Matip Fare At Liverpool?
By Ewah Chika.
Nothing good comes free they say buy that might be wrong considering the free signing of former Schalke 04 centre-back Joel Matip by Liverpool this summer. The signing became necessary following the sale of Martin Skhtel to Fenerbahce and the release of Kolo Toure. Matip is likely to line up with French centre-back Lamine Sahko after he returns from injury thereby ousting Croatian
Nothing good comes free they say buy that might be wrong considering the free signing of former Schalke 04 centre-back Joel Matip by Liverpool this summer. The signing became necessary following the sale of Martin Skhtel to Fenerbahce and the release of Kolo Toure. Matip is likely to line up with French centre-back Lamine Sahko after he returns from injury thereby ousting Croatian
Young, Talented But Inconsistent : Why Jordan Ibe's Move To Bournemouth Is The Best For His Career.
By Ewah Chika.
"If you arrived at Melwood to see Jordan Ibe train and you didn't know who he was 'you'd swear he was Spanish or Portuguese. He's so unfazed," were the words of former Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers while referring to youngster Jordan Ibe who was billed as the next big thing from Andield.
By this time last year , Jordan Ibe was preparing for the 2015/2016 season in the Far East with
"If you arrived at Melwood to see Jordan Ibe train and you didn't know who he was 'you'd swear he was Spanish or Portuguese. He's so unfazed," were the words of former Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers while referring to youngster Jordan Ibe who was billed as the next big thing from Andield.
By this time last year , Jordan Ibe was preparing for the 2015/2016 season in the Far East with
The Sinister Motives Behind Anti Dino Melaye Protests In Abuja.
By Ewah Chika.
Nigeria is really one funny country . One story that keeps cropping up no matter how one tries to get it off the airwaves or social media is the Dino Melaye/Remi Tinubu face off.
This incident has taken so much energy, time and financial resources of Nigerians when the solution is to simply move on. Dino Maleye made some shameful comments which is a pure representation of his irresponsible self judging from his history of domestic violence but one wonders why has the
Nigeria is really one funny country . One story that keeps cropping up no matter how one tries to get it off the airwaves or social media is the Dino Melaye/Remi Tinubu face off.
This incident has taken so much energy, time and financial resources of Nigerians when the solution is to simply move on. Dino Maleye made some shameful comments which is a pure representation of his irresponsible self judging from his history of domestic violence but one wonders why has the
Transmission Company Of Nigeria Power Outrage Announcement Show Of Shame .
By Ewah Chika.
Wonders they say never ends and that is exactly what most Lagosians felt when the the Transmission Company of Nigeria, Lagos Region (TCN) announced that many parts of Lagos state will experience total blackout between 10am-1pm on Monday (19-07-2016).
Wonders they say never ends and that is exactly what most Lagosians felt when the the Transmission Company of Nigeria, Lagos Region (TCN) announced that many parts of Lagos state will experience total blackout between 10am-1pm on Monday (19-07-2016).
Is Eva Banega The Heir To Wesley Sneider In Inter Milan?
By Ewah Chika.
At 28, while many footballers are winding down, new Inter Milan deep playing midfielder appears to be hitting his top form after having a troubled and controversial career which saw him flop in Valencia in 2008.
What is shocking however is the fact that Eva Benega found his lost form in Andalusian club Sevilla and not in very top European clubs. Last season, the Argentine won the Europa League and also reached
At 28, while many footballers are winding down, new Inter Milan deep playing midfielder appears to be hitting his top form after having a troubled and controversial career which saw him flop in Valencia in 2008.
What is shocking however is the fact that Eva Benega found his lost form in Andalusian club Sevilla and not in very top European clubs. Last season, the Argentine won the Europa League and also reached
Resigned By Real Madrid : Is Alvaro Morata Making The Right Decision?
By Ewah Chika.
It is no longer news that Alvaro Morata will be staying back in Real Madrid next season after the Spanish club triggered his Juventus buy-back clause of €30 million , with Juventus making a profit of €10 million after signing him for €20 million in 2014.
The Madrid born forward joined Juventus in 2014 after growing impatient as a result of limited game time and playing second fiddle to star man Karim Benzema. At Juventus, Morata not only scored
It is no longer news that Alvaro Morata will be staying back in Real Madrid next season after the Spanish club triggered his Juventus buy-back clause of €30 million , with Juventus making a profit of €10 million after signing him for €20 million in 2014.
The Madrid born forward joined Juventus in 2014 after growing impatient as a result of limited game time and playing second fiddle to star man Karim Benzema. At Juventus, Morata not only scored
Is Ahmed Musa A Bargain Signing Or Overpriced For Leicester City?
By Ewah Chika.
Ahmed Musa finally made his long awaited move to Leicester City for £16 million this summer after it was reported CSKA Moscow rejected Leicester's bid last winter.
Musa is Leicester City's record signing and is expected to immediately make the starting eleven next
Ahmed Musa finally made his long awaited move to Leicester City for £16 million this summer after it was reported CSKA Moscow rejected Leicester's bid last winter.
Musa is Leicester City's record signing and is expected to immediately make the starting eleven next
Monday 18 July 2016
Missing Police Vehicle : Why IG Ibrahim Idris Must Stop Playing Politics Rather Should Tackle Insecurity.
By Ewah Chika.
"If you look through the windows of my former office and from the report from my (Force) transport officer, you would see cars but a week to the the day I would resume, all these cars disappeared.
"When I took over, there was no vehicle , even the vehicle I would use. I discovered the last IG went away with 24 vehicles ; the DIGs , some of them eight , some of them seven. The IG's vehicles
"If you look through the windows of my former office and from the report from my (Force) transport officer, you would see cars but a week to the the day I would resume, all these cars disappeared.
"When I took over, there was no vehicle , even the vehicle I would use. I discovered the last IG went away with 24 vehicles ; the DIGs , some of them eight , some of them seven. The IG's vehicles
Why Papiss Cisse's Newcastle Exit Is The Dawn Of A New Era For Rafa Benitez's Side.
By Ewah Chika.
Newcastle United might have been relegated last season from the Premiership but one bitter thought amongst the club's fans is the poor form of striker Papis Demba Cisse since his impressive debut season in 2011.
Newcastle United might have been relegated last season from the Premiership but one bitter thought amongst the club's fans is the poor form of striker Papis Demba Cisse since his impressive debut season in 2011.
What Will Mehdi Benatia Bring To Max Allegri's Juventus?
By Ewah Chika.
110 Seria A games and 11 goals is impressive for any defender and that is exactly what Juventus need right now which is the reason why the fans of the Old Lady are in jubilant mood after it was announced that Max Allegri's side have signed former Bayern Munich's centre-back Medhi Amine El-Mouttaqi Benatia on a season long loan for €3 million with a view of making it permanent for €17
110 Seria A games and 11 goals is impressive for any defender and that is exactly what Juventus need right now which is the reason why the fans of the Old Lady are in jubilant mood after it was announced that Max Allegri's side have signed former Bayern Munich's centre-back Medhi Amine El-Mouttaqi Benatia on a season long loan for €3 million with a view of making it permanent for €17
Is Vincent Janssen (New Tottenham Signing) Really Ready For Premier League Football?
By Ewah Chika.
Mauricio Pochettino seems to have taken a risk after he sanctioned the shelling of a whopping €21 million for AZ Alkmaar's top striker Vincent Janssen this summer. Even though Harry Kane finished last season on a high as the highest goal scorer in the league ( 25 goals ), the signing of the Dutch man is paramount considering the possibility of injury and fatigue setting in on Kane later on in the
Mauricio Pochettino seems to have taken a risk after he sanctioned the shelling of a whopping €21 million for AZ Alkmaar's top striker Vincent Janssen this summer. Even though Harry Kane finished last season on a high as the highest goal scorer in the league ( 25 goals ), the signing of the Dutch man is paramount considering the possibility of injury and fatigue setting in on Kane later on in the
Sunday 17 July 2016
Will Juan Cuadrado Succeed In Chelsea If Recalled By Antonio Conte?
By Ewah Chika.
"Cuadrado is a Chelsea player and I am waiting for him. He must come back very soon.
"He is our player. I am very happy to have him. He is a player I wanted in Juventus and now he must come back and start to train with us. Yes he is Chelsea's player and he will stay with us. If something changes you will know," were the words of Antonio Conte on the future of Juan Cuadrado who spent last season on loan in Juventus .
"Cuadrado is a Chelsea player and I am waiting for him. He must come back very soon.
"He is our player. I am very happy to have him. He is a player I wanted in Juventus and now he must come back and start to train with us. Yes he is Chelsea's player and he will stay with us. If something changes you will know," were the words of Antonio Conte on the future of Juan Cuadrado who spent last season on loan in Juventus .
Once Hailed As "The Brazil Zidane " Can Paulo Henrique Ganso Revive His Career In Sevilla?
By Ewah Chika.
Once hailed as the next big thing from Brazil, Paulo Henrique Ganso has fallen from grace to grass after bursting to the scene in 2008 in Santos. Ganso was already established in the Brazil league playing alongside Neymar as Santos won the Copa Libertadores in 2011. Ganso at a time was so good that he was compared with legendary Zinedine Zidane at a time with his ball control, vision and exemplary passing top notch.
Once hailed as the next big thing from Brazil, Paulo Henrique Ganso has fallen from grace to grass after bursting to the scene in 2008 in Santos. Ganso was already established in the Brazil league playing alongside Neymar as Santos won the Copa Libertadores in 2011. Ganso at a time was so good that he was compared with legendary Zinedine Zidane at a time with his ball control, vision and exemplary passing top notch.
Why Are Funds For The Budget Capital Projects Yet To Be Released Seven Months Into The New Year?
By Ewah Chika.
When the APC and president Muhammadu Buhari were busy campaigning throughout the country during the general elections in April last year, they party was not lacking in promises as several impossible things were promised the gullible Nigerians who were griped by poverty at the time.
When the APC and president Muhammadu Buhari were busy campaigning throughout the country during the general elections in April last year, they party was not lacking in promises as several impossible things were promised the gullible Nigerians who were griped by poverty at the time.
Can Nampalys Mendy Fill The Void Created By N'Golo Kante's Exit At Leicester City.
By Ewah Chika.
Nampalys Mendy might be an unknown name outside France but that is not to say the former Monaco defensive midfielder is short of quality.
"I know the coach (Claudio Ranieri), I know his mentality and I know his philosophy . When he speaks it's direct and clear for me I like this.
Nampalys Mendy might be an unknown name outside France but that is not to say the former Monaco defensive midfielder is short of quality.
"I know the coach (Claudio Ranieri), I know his mentality and I know his philosophy . When he speaks it's direct and clear for me I like this.
Saturday 16 July 2016
Why Gen. Tukur Buratai Is A Genius Saver Considering His $1.5 Million UAE Asssets
By Ewah Chika.
Gen. Tukur Buratai is presently well known for his corrupt ownership of assets worth over $1.5 million in the United Arab Emirates rather than his achievements as the Chief Of Army Staff (COAS). Though he has recently been cleared by the same Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) which has consistently disgraced and humiliated the Senate President Senator Bukola Saraki for a similar
Gen. Tukur Buratai is presently well known for his corrupt ownership of assets worth over $1.5 million in the United Arab Emirates rather than his achievements as the Chief Of Army Staff (COAS). Though he has recently been cleared by the same Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) which has consistently disgraced and humiliated the Senate President Senator Bukola Saraki for a similar
Will Gianluica Lapadula Be Milan's Top Player Next Season ?
By Ewah Chika.
Upon signing for AC Milan for £7.3 million former Pescara forward Gianluca Lapadula had this to say about the move , "I am very happy, and I thank president (Silvio) Berlusconi and (Adriano) Galliani. It was a deal that happened in a flash , strongly desired by both sides and rightly so."
Upon signing for AC Milan for £7.3 million former Pescara forward Gianluca Lapadula had this to say about the move , "I am very happy, and I thank president (Silvio) Berlusconi and (Adriano) Galliani. It was a deal that happened in a flash , strongly desired by both sides and rightly so."
Has Southampton Struck Gold With Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg's Signing From Bayern Munich?
By Ewah Chika.
At a time the likes of N'golo Kante and Radja Nainggolan are valued above £30 million by their respective clubs not forgetting the £33 million signing of Granit Xhaka from Borussia Mochengladbach by Arsenal this summer, it appears a bargain that Southampton have signed Danish young sensation Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Bayern Munich for £12 million. The Dane is a class quality who is expected to partner Jordy Claise in the centre of the midfield in a 4-2-3-1 formation for
At a time the likes of N'golo Kante and Radja Nainggolan are valued above £30 million by their respective clubs not forgetting the £33 million signing of Granit Xhaka from Borussia Mochengladbach by Arsenal this summer, it appears a bargain that Southampton have signed Danish young sensation Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg from Bayern Munich for £12 million. The Dane is a class quality who is expected to partner Jordy Claise in the centre of the midfield in a 4-2-3-1 formation for
Is N'Golo Kante Antonio Conte's Missing Jigsaw In Midfield?
By Ewah Chika.
By Ewah Chika.
Leicester City fans can be forgiven for sulking after it was confirmed Chelsea had completed the signing of their French defensive midfielder N'Golo Kante for £30 million, considering the player ended last season on the high even earning a spot in the starting line-up for Didier Deschamps French team in the European Tournament in the summer as Les Blues finished runner-up behind Portugal.
Young , Raw And Experienced , Lucas Digne Is The Best Man For Barcelona.
By Ewah Chika.
Although the €16 million signing of Lucas Digne by Barcelona is celebrated by the Camp Nou fans, it is rather shocking how the 23-year-old flopped in PSG after moving to the capital club from Lille in 2013 for €15 million.
In Barcelona Digne is primarily seen as a second choice considering the form of Jordi Alba who arrived from Valencia in 2012. Alba (27) has been the first choice at Barcelona playing more than 27
Although the €16 million signing of Lucas Digne by Barcelona is celebrated by the Camp Nou fans, it is rather shocking how the 23-year-old flopped in PSG after moving to the capital club from Lille in 2013 for €15 million.
In Barcelona Digne is primarily seen as a second choice considering the form of Jordi Alba who arrived from Valencia in 2012. Alba (27) has been the first choice at Barcelona playing more than 27
President Buhari Reveals His Corrupt True Self With Gen. Dambazzau Shielding.
By Ewah Chika.
One thing I never knew President Muhammadu Buhari could perform perfectly is the job of a magician and this is coming after it emerged that the Presidential Committee on the Audit of Defense Equipment Procurement in the Armed Forces chaired by Air Vice Marshal Jon Ode (rtd) cleared the current of Minister of Interior General Dambazzau of all corrupt and fraudlent activities while he held
One thing I never knew President Muhammadu Buhari could perform perfectly is the job of a magician and this is coming after it emerged that the Presidential Committee on the Audit of Defense Equipment Procurement in the Armed Forces chaired by Air Vice Marshal Jon Ode (rtd) cleared the current of Minister of Interior General Dambazzau of all corrupt and fraudlent activities while he held
Why Antonio Conte Cannot Play His Favoured 3-5-2 Favoured Formation In Chelsea.
By Ewah Chika.
With constant debates on the formation that current Chelsea manager Antonio Conte will utilise in Chelsea, it is interesting to know that this argument is uncalled for and unnecessary.
Conte is known for his high pressing energy game plan based on a 3-5-2 formation with wing backs performing both attacking and defensive duties. Conte was so successful with the formation that he won three successive Seria A titles with Juventus using the 3-5-2 formation, as if that wasn't enough
With constant debates on the formation that current Chelsea manager Antonio Conte will utilise in Chelsea, it is interesting to know that this argument is uncalled for and unnecessary.
Conte is known for his high pressing energy game plan based on a 3-5-2 formation with wing backs performing both attacking and defensive duties. Conte was so successful with the formation that he won three successive Seria A titles with Juventus using the 3-5-2 formation, as if that wasn't enough
Summer Signing : Sadio Mane (Liverpool).
By Ewah Chika.
"I have followed Sadio for a lot of years since his impressive Olympics in 2012 and then watched his development in Austria and Southampton.
"He has a lot of quality, works hard and has a very good goal scoring record," were the words of Jurgen Klopp after the signing of Southampton and Senegalese attacking midfielder Sadio Mane for
"I have followed Sadio for a lot of years since his impressive Olympics in 2012 and then watched his development in Austria and Southampton.
"He has a lot of quality, works hard and has a very good goal scoring record," were the words of Jurgen Klopp after the signing of Southampton and Senegalese attacking midfielder Sadio Mane for
Thursday 14 July 2016
Get To Know Breel Embolo , Schalke 04's New Signing And Swiss Star.
By Ewah Chika.
Schalke will be over the moon following the recent signing of Cameroonian born Swiss forward Breel Embolo for £20 million from FC Basel, this is because just six months ago Basel rejected Wolfsburg's bid of €27 million for the talented youngster.
Presently 19, the forward debuted in 2014 after signing a professional contract with Basel. The forward scored 10 goals in 27 League games for Basel coupled with his two goals, one assist in eight games in the Europa League all last season. Last season, he also had a shot per game of 2.1 and a
Schalke will be over the moon following the recent signing of Cameroonian born Swiss forward Breel Embolo for £20 million from FC Basel, this is because just six months ago Basel rejected Wolfsburg's bid of €27 million for the talented youngster.
Presently 19, the forward debuted in 2014 after signing a professional contract with Basel. The forward scored 10 goals in 27 League games for Basel coupled with his two goals, one assist in eight games in the Europa League all last season. Last season, he also had a shot per game of 2.1 and a
At 29, Is Nolito What Manchester City Really Need At Present?
By Ewah Chika.
As Manchester City fans jubilate over the signing of Spanish attacker Nolito, it remains to be seen if his signing for £14 million from Celta Vigo is the right one.
The Spaniard reunites with Pep Guardiola who is the man who handed him his Barcelona debut in 2010 after joining the Barcelona B-team in 2008 . Nolito would later go on loan to Benfica in 2011 after growing frustrated with game time in Barcelona ( played only two league games in one year) before joining Celta Vigo in 2013. Though last season was his best as he scored 12 goals providing a further seven assists in 27 league games, the Spaniard ended up scoring 39 goals in 103 League
As Manchester City fans jubilate over the signing of Spanish attacker Nolito, it remains to be seen if his signing for £14 million from Celta Vigo is the right one.
The Spaniard reunites with Pep Guardiola who is the man who handed him his Barcelona debut in 2010 after joining the Barcelona B-team in 2008 . Nolito would later go on loan to Benfica in 2011 after growing frustrated with game time in Barcelona ( played only two league games in one year) before joining Celta Vigo in 2013. Though last season was his best as he scored 12 goals providing a further seven assists in 27 league games, the Spaniard ended up scoring 39 goals in 103 League
Has Senator Dino Melaye Demystified Bola Ahmed Tinubu With His Threats?
By Ewah Chika.
Alhaji Bola Tinubu is easily not only seen and described as the undisputed Godfather of the APC but also the head of the "Change Revolution" which swept off the PDP and the last administration from power. Such is Tinubu's influence that it was once said that he single handedly installed John Oyegun as the party's chairman and also picked his former Attorrney General in Lagos State, Prof Yemi Osibanjo as President Muhammadu Buhari's running mate before the general elections.
Why Was Ibe Kachikwu (President Buhari's Only Performing Appointee) Sacked ?
By Ewah Chika.
Dr. Ibe Kachikwu might not be everybody's favourite especially if you are a fan of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (recall his now infamous outburst in March) .
Though Kachikwu was unknown to those of us outside the oil and gas sector before his appointment , however perusing his Resume reminded us that he was a experienced
Is Ms. Hadiza Usman's NPA Appointment A Political Compensation For #BringBackOurGirls Campaign?
By Ewah Chika.
Going by events it is becoming rather stupid to think that the missing Chibok girls campaign wasn't a political campaign against the then President (Goodluck Jonathan).
The reason for this is not far fetched as regards the appointment of #BringBackOurGirls co-founder Ms. Hadiza Bala Usman who was recently appointed the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports
Going by events it is becoming rather stupid to think that the missing Chibok girls campaign wasn't a political campaign against the then President (Goodluck Jonathan).
The reason for this is not far fetched as regards the appointment of #BringBackOurGirls co-founder Ms. Hadiza Bala Usman who was recently appointed the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports
Dino Melaye: Chronicles Of A Street Tout And Serial Sexist.
By Ewah Chika.
Dino Melaye is not only the number supporter of Senate President Bukola Saraki after seconding the motion for Saraki's nomination as Senate President, he is also the most controversial senator in the present dispensation. It is shocking that despite his appalling and irresponsible records such a man continues to parade himself as a senator and representative of his constituency . This clearly shows
Dino Melaye is not only the number supporter of Senate President Bukola Saraki after seconding the motion for Saraki's nomination as Senate President, he is also the most controversial senator in the present dispensation. It is shocking that despite his appalling and irresponsible records such a man continues to parade himself as a senator and representative of his constituency . This clearly shows
World Class But Injury Prone, Will Ilkay Gundogan Flop In Manchester City?
By Ewah Chika.
Manchester City nearly lost out on a Champions League place with inconsistency trailing the Citizens. Man City conceeded so many goals and thus lost ground in the title chase. This is why it wasn't shocking that City were linked with nearly every top central midfielder in the world as the likes of Yaya Toure, Fernando and Fernandinho were a shadow of themselves all through last season. At the end City announced the signing of German and Borussia Dortmund defensive/attacking midfielder Ilkay Gundogan for £21 million. This was not the first time the former Nurnberg midfielder was linked with Man City but this was surely the last as he signed a four year contract.
Though rated as one of the best in his position considering his talent and technique, the question is Can Man City cope with the player'a consistent injury woes of recent . Not only was the midfielder on clutches when signed but he was also injured for all of 2013/2014 Bundesliga games except for three due to a persistent back injury which made him miss out on the German team for the FIFA World Cup in Brazil in 2014. Gundogan missed a whole a year of football and ever since hasn't recovered fully suffering a succession of injuries including abductor, hamstrings , pelvis , feet, ankles, shins and how dislocated knee which ruled him out again last season until September after which he managed 25 Bundesliga games scoring a lone goal and providing three assists. He also played six Europa League games recording one assist.
Though a first class player who was on top of his game in the 2012/2013 , the Gelsenkirchen born player was the icing of BVB as the won the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and reaching the final of the Champions League before losing to Bayern Munich. This was the height of the Turkish born player as he has struggled to regain that form. Gundogan is a player who is good in dribbling , holder of the ball, concentration and loves to tackle , however he will have to improve on his aerial duel and poor tackling to succeed in a team managed by possession obsessed Pep Guardiola.
BVB have made a huge profit on a player who the signed from Nurnberg in 2011 for €4 million and sold for £21 million to Man City. At present he won't be missed in Ruhr as Julian Weigl and Sebastian Rode will seamlessly step into his shoes.
Finally the signing of Gundogan by Man City is considered a foolish one or a Masterstroke by other until the season starts.
Manchester City nearly lost out on a Champions League place with inconsistency trailing the Citizens. Man City conceeded so many goals and thus lost ground in the title chase. This is why it wasn't shocking that City were linked with nearly every top central midfielder in the world as the likes of Yaya Toure, Fernando and Fernandinho were a shadow of themselves all through last season. At the end City announced the signing of German and Borussia Dortmund defensive/attacking midfielder Ilkay Gundogan for £21 million. This was not the first time the former Nurnberg midfielder was linked with Man City but this was surely the last as he signed a four year contract.
Though rated as one of the best in his position considering his talent and technique, the question is Can Man City cope with the player'a consistent injury woes of recent . Not only was the midfielder on clutches when signed but he was also injured for all of 2013/2014 Bundesliga games except for three due to a persistent back injury which made him miss out on the German team for the FIFA World Cup in Brazil in 2014. Gundogan missed a whole a year of football and ever since hasn't recovered fully suffering a succession of injuries including abductor, hamstrings , pelvis , feet, ankles, shins and how dislocated knee which ruled him out again last season until September after which he managed 25 Bundesliga games scoring a lone goal and providing three assists. He also played six Europa League games recording one assist.
Though a first class player who was on top of his game in the 2012/2013 , the Gelsenkirchen born player was the icing of BVB as the won the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and reaching the final of the Champions League before losing to Bayern Munich. This was the height of the Turkish born player as he has struggled to regain that form. Gundogan is a player who is good in dribbling , holder of the ball, concentration and loves to tackle , however he will have to improve on his aerial duel and poor tackling to succeed in a team managed by possession obsessed Pep Guardiola.
BVB have made a huge profit on a player who the signed from Nurnberg in 2011 for €4 million and sold for £21 million to Man City. At present he won't be missed in Ruhr as Julian Weigl and Sebastian Rode will seamlessly step into his shoes.
Finally the signing of Gundogan by Man City is considered a foolish one or a Masterstroke by other until the season starts.
Get To Know Emre Mor : Borussia Dortmund's Recent Signing.
By Ewah Chika.
Eyebrows were raised when Borussia Dortmund spent €16 million on Turkish starlet Emre Mor in May. Borussia Dortmund have been active in this transfer window signing the likes of Marc Bartra (Barcelona), Sebastian Rode (Bayern Munich) and Ousmane Dembele (Rennes) while these players
Eyebrows were raised when Borussia Dortmund spent €16 million on Turkish starlet Emre Mor in May. Borussia Dortmund have been active in this transfer window signing the likes of Marc Bartra (Barcelona), Sebastian Rode (Bayern Munich) and Ousmane Dembele (Rennes) while these players
Wednesday 13 July 2016
Why Borussia Dortmund's Julien Weigl Is The Man To Watch Out For This Season?
By Ewah Chika.
With the exit of Ilkay Gundogan to Manchester City for £21 million, Borussia Dortmund fans would be expected to be moody and saddened but this is not the case and one reason for that is the form of 20-year-old former 1980 Munich captain Julian Weigl who was a revelation last two seasons in the German League as his team suffered relegation .
With the exit of Ilkay Gundogan to Manchester City for £21 million, Borussia Dortmund fans would be expected to be moody and saddened but this is not the case and one reason for that is the form of 20-year-old former 1980 Munich captain Julian Weigl who was a revelation last two seasons in the German League as his team suffered relegation .
Should Borussia Dortmund Retain Serbian Neven Subotic ?
By Ewah Chika.
Two Bundesliga titles and one DFB-Pokal trophy are what Serbian Neven Subotic have won during his time in Rhur. Subotic's first European club was Mainz where he made 34 league appearances scoring four goals before his former coach at Mainz (Jurgen Klopp) upon taking over in Dortmund convinced him to join the club in 2008.
Two Bundesliga titles and one DFB-Pokal trophy are what Serbian Neven Subotic have won during his time in Rhur. Subotic's first European club was Mainz where he made 34 league appearances scoring four goals before his former coach at Mainz (Jurgen Klopp) upon taking over in Dortmund convinced him to join the club in 2008.
Is Claude Puel The Right Man For Southampton?
It seemed like all hope was lost for Southampton fans when Everton announced the appointment of Ronald Koeman as their new coach following the sacking of Roberto Martinez. The outcry is based
on the fact that Koeman is a fan favourite having finished 7th and 6th in his two years in charge at the club.
on the fact that Koeman is a fan favourite having finished 7th and 6th in his two years in charge at the club.
Were Bournemouth Right To Sign 22-Year-Old Lys Mousset For £7 Milllion .
By Ewah Chika.
"We are always planing for the future and Lys is not only a young player with exciting potential, but someone who had a massive impact for their club last season. We look forward to welcoming him to Vitality Stadium and believe he will only continue to improve under the tutelage of Eddie Howe and Jason Tindall," was the club statement released by Bournemouth after signing youngster Lys Mousset
Friday 1 July 2016
Stephane El-Shaarawy: How AC Milan's Loss Has Turned To AS Roma's Gain.
By Ewah Chika.
After scoring against his parent club AC Milan in Seria A last season while on loan with AS Roma, Stephan Karim El-Shaarawy had this to say, "It was a whirlwind of strong emotions for me. It's been a very special night coming back to San Siro, scoring in front of the Curva Sud where I scored my first Seria A goal, getting a round of applause when I came off.
"It was a unique and unforgettable night and I have to thank the Milan fans, as they cheered me even when I was substituted. I'm delighted," he concluded.
As if that wasn't enough, it didn't take long before Roma announced the signing of the 23-year-old for €13 million on a four year deal after impressing on loan last season which represents a loss of €6 million considering he was signed for €20 million from Genoa in 2011 by AC Milan. AC Milan fans will feel bad partly due to the fact that the Italian player is a fan favourite and one whose talent is unquestionable. El-Shaarawy was signed in 2011 for €20 million from Genoa after impressing on loan in Padova scoring nine goals in 29 Seria B games which qualified the team for the Seria A playoff. While in Milan, the player was nicknamed "Young Pharoah" by the fans as his pace, work-ethic, technical skill and ball control were all joy to behold. El-Shaarawy joined a Milan team in decline as the club struggled to compete with big teams and financial resources selling their best players Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to PSG and replacing them with average players. In his second season (2012/2013) he was the light of the team and was the star player scoring 19 goals in 49 games in all competitions . This is still his best season to date even though he struggled in the second half of the season after the signing of Mario Balotelli from Manchester City. One of the reason for El-Shaarawy's loss of form is the fact that Balotelli became a vocal point of Milan's attack, as Maximiliano Allegri's tactical game plan changed which favoured the former Manchester City man, shifting El-Shaarawy to the wing burdening him with defensive contributions which is not one of his strengths .
With a flair like that of South American, El-Shaarawy might have struggled with pressure and expectations as he gradually lost form before the season ended. If 2012/2013 season was his breakthrough season, 2013/2014 season turned out a disaster for him as he struggled with injuries and match fitness for two years before the club decided to send him on loan to Monaco last season. It was at Monaco that the Egyptian lost his love for the game as he only played only 15 Ligue 1 games scoring no goal . This was the reason why he was sent on a second loan to Roma last season after Luciano Spalletti took over the club from Luis Garcia and requested for his signing.
In total El-Shaarawy played 82 Seria A games for Milan scoring 21 goals . With the signing of El-Shaarawy , Roma have upgraded and can now compete with the big boys In Seria A provided the sign players who will supply the key passes that the striker will convert . AC Milan might feel it was better to sell the player considering his recent struggles and form of Carlos Bacca but one thing that should be noted is that if given more time and patience El-Shaarawy would have been a monumental success at the club.
After scoring against his parent club AC Milan in Seria A last season while on loan with AS Roma, Stephan Karim El-Shaarawy had this to say, "It was a whirlwind of strong emotions for me. It's been a very special night coming back to San Siro, scoring in front of the Curva Sud where I scored my first Seria A goal, getting a round of applause when I came off.
"It was a unique and unforgettable night and I have to thank the Milan fans, as they cheered me even when I was substituted. I'm delighted," he concluded.
As if that wasn't enough, it didn't take long before Roma announced the signing of the 23-year-old for €13 million on a four year deal after impressing on loan last season which represents a loss of €6 million considering he was signed for €20 million from Genoa in 2011 by AC Milan. AC Milan fans will feel bad partly due to the fact that the Italian player is a fan favourite and one whose talent is unquestionable. El-Shaarawy was signed in 2011 for €20 million from Genoa after impressing on loan in Padova scoring nine goals in 29 Seria B games which qualified the team for the Seria A playoff. While in Milan, the player was nicknamed "Young Pharoah" by the fans as his pace, work-ethic, technical skill and ball control were all joy to behold. El-Shaarawy joined a Milan team in decline as the club struggled to compete with big teams and financial resources selling their best players Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to PSG and replacing them with average players. In his second season (2012/2013) he was the light of the team and was the star player scoring 19 goals in 49 games in all competitions . This is still his best season to date even though he struggled in the second half of the season after the signing of Mario Balotelli from Manchester City. One of the reason for El-Shaarawy's loss of form is the fact that Balotelli became a vocal point of Milan's attack, as Maximiliano Allegri's tactical game plan changed which favoured the former Manchester City man, shifting El-Shaarawy to the wing burdening him with defensive contributions which is not one of his strengths .
With a flair like that of South American, El-Shaarawy might have struggled with pressure and expectations as he gradually lost form before the season ended. If 2012/2013 season was his breakthrough season, 2013/2014 season turned out a disaster for him as he struggled with injuries and match fitness for two years before the club decided to send him on loan to Monaco last season. It was at Monaco that the Egyptian lost his love for the game as he only played only 15 Ligue 1 games scoring no goal . This was the reason why he was sent on a second loan to Roma last season after Luciano Spalletti took over the club from Luis Garcia and requested for his signing.
In total El-Shaarawy played 82 Seria A games for Milan scoring 21 goals . With the signing of El-Shaarawy , Roma have upgraded and can now compete with the big boys In Seria A provided the sign players who will supply the key passes that the striker will convert . AC Milan might feel it was better to sell the player considering his recent struggles and form of Carlos Bacca but one thing that should be noted is that if given more time and patience El-Shaarawy would have been a monumental success at the club.
Is Borussia Dortmund's Emre Mor The Next Big Thing Of German Bundesliga ?
By Ewah Chika.
Eyebrows were raised when Borussia Dortmund spent €16 million on Turkish starlet Emre Mor in May. Borussia Dortmund have been active in this transfer window signing the likes of Marc Bartra (Barcelona), Sebastian Rode (Bayern Munich) and Ousmane Dembele (Rennes) while these players are quality players this cannot be compared with the 18-year-old Turkish international who has a perfect left foot.
Eyebrows were raised when Borussia Dortmund spent €16 million on Turkish starlet Emre Mor in May. Borussia Dortmund have been active in this transfer window signing the likes of Marc Bartra (Barcelona), Sebastian Rode (Bayern Munich) and Ousmane Dembele (Rennes) while these players are quality players this cannot be compared with the 18-year-old Turkish international who has a perfect left foot.
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