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Showing posts from October, 2024

Who is Emiliano Martinez’s Ideal Replacement in Argentina

  Argentina are bound to decide Emiliano Martinez’s ideal replacement for the two fixtures in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers this week. Emiliano Martinez made headlines again with his quirk controversy in last month’s games at the World Cup qualifiers. He reportedly hit the journalist after Argentina ’s loss to Colombia, leading to his two-game suspension. Consequently, he will not be available for these coming matches versus Venezuela and Bolivia. The Aston Villa shotstopper has cemented his place as the number one goalie in Albiceleste after helping them win Copa America 2021. He even went on winning the FIFA Best Goalkeeper awards in 2022 following his superb form in the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup. Unfortunately, he is also known for his controversial demeanour on the pitch, from his antics in the penalty shootout to the World Cup victory celebration. Martinez’s quirks were finally brought to justice, resulting in his suspension. Such has left Lionel Scaloni in a limited ch

The Best Balkan Boss in the European Elite Sides

  Several Balkan managers have been able to thrive at the European elite clubs. Balkan managers seem to be overlooked today. There have been very few of them who manage to thrive at the top level.  Recently, AS Roma has appointed Ivan Juric to replace Daniel de Rossi. The Croatian boss is a surprising name since he has yet to win any silverware. However, Juric’s stint with Hellas Verona and Torino didn't go unnoticed. Yet, taking charge of the midtable sides is entirely different from being at the helm of an elite team as Roma. Giallorossi is keen on returning to the Champions League, something that even the Special One, Jose Mourinho, could not achieve, despite winning the UEFA Conference League, their first continental trophy, in 2021.  Unfortunately, Roma’s campaign in Europe has already been dented by a shocking loss to Sweden’s Elfsborg in the Europa League this week. Juric might not be under pressure yet, but the former Crotone boss needs to turn things around before be

The Russian Goalkeepers in Top Five European Leagues

  A few Russian goalkeepers have had rare experience playing in major European leagues, including well-known figures. Russian football might be stepping into their dark age. Their clubs and national teams have been unable to compete in major competitions. Yet, their talents somehow still manage to emerge and attract top teams in the European top five. Last summer, Matvey Safonov was the latest player who plied his trade abroad. He left FC Krasnodar to join French powerhouse,  PSG for a five-year deal. The Russian international shot stopper is expected to provide competition for the first choice, Gianluigi Donnarumma. In fact, the 25-year-old goalie has featured in three games so far, including the last two domestic fixtures. Le Parisien boss, Luis Enrique, appears to rotate the man between the sticks. Safonov made his debut with his new team in the Champions League opener versus Girona. Safonov’s move to Ligue 1 is probably rather unexpected. Yet such talent deserves a chance to impro