Bayern : Uefa Champions League's Dark Horses

At the start of the German Bundesliga season Bayern Muchen lacked flair. It was understandable as their playmaker Franck Ribery was suffering with injury. They drew against TSG 1899 Hoffenheim 1-1 with new signing Ivica Olic scoring. The second game never went to plan either. They also, drew 1-1 with Werder Bremen thanks to Werder's young German star Mesut Ozil. Their new 30 million euro signing Mario Gomez was on the scoresheet which, was encouraging to see for Bayern fans as they want him to score more to repay that huge transfer fee. A fee infact which, was the biggest in the German Bundesliga history. With Ribery still struggling to recover from injury Bayern faced lowly German side Mainz and lost 2-1. It was a shock. Bayern players admitted to the German press that teams didn't fear going to Bayern's stadium the Allianz Arena anymore. Their new Dutch coach they got off Dutch Champions AZ Alkmaar, Louis Van Gaal stated that the team had not fully adpated to his tactics and style of play.

Bayern's new coach, Louis Van Gaal.

In Spain, Real Madrid were having a clear out all Summer. After, the departure of Klass Jan Hunterlaar to AC Milan we all thought Real Madrid only had one player to clear out, Rafael Van Der Vaart. This was becuase both Sneidjer and Robben appeared in Pre-Season and Pelligrini, the new Real Madrid coach insisted that they were both staying. However, due to both players comments they were forced out of the club. One only can assume that both were sold for a combined fee of 40 to 45 million euros to help the club deal with their vast summer spendings. Sneidjer headed to Italy with Inter Milan and played a great contribution to their 2-0 thrashing of Milan in the San Siro derby. So, Mourinhio was right, Inter needed a playmaker! However, Robben went to Bayern Muchen for 25 million euros.

The first half Robeen never featured. Bayern were leading 1-0 due to an Altintop shot not being parried or cught by VFL Wolfsburg keeper Benaglio and Gomez scoring from the rebound. Gomez thought he scored agin but, he was offside from an Ivica Olic cross. At half time Hamit Altintop was replaced by Arjen Robben. And Robben's effect on the game was immediate. He gave Bayern another dimension on the wing. Running down it, cutting insdie and taking shots. He soon scored his first goal with this technique. Then Ribery came on. This is what everybody in Germany and the whole of Europe wanted to see. Ribery and Robben together! The third goal showed what the team would look like. It was on the break, Robben passes it to Ribery. Ribery runs half the pitch and while him and Robben are in the box he passes it to Robben who turns ahrply which, fooled Bengalio and Wolfsburg defender Barzagali then, he calmly tapped it into the net. Ribery hasn't signed a new deal for Bayern but, with Robben there and somebody on his same wave length he may actually sign a new deal. The game ended 3-0. Bayern had dominated and derservedly won.

Bayern's Franck Ribery and scorer Arjen Robben after, he scored his second goal against current German Bundesliga champions VFL Wolfsburg on Saturday in the 3-0 win at the Allianz Arena.

Bayern has not won anything in Europe since winmning the Champion's League in 2001. After buying the likes of Tymoshuck, Pranjic, Braahfield, Olic, Gomez and Robben. Expectations are higher then the quarter fianls of last year. But, with Ribery and Robben I can see them beating Juventus who have problems at right back and left back. Grygera and Mlinaro shall be ripped to pieces by Robben and Ribery. That is the reason I can see them qualifying first in their Champion's League group. Bordeaux won't trouble them. Just makr Gourcuff out of the game which Tymoshuck and Schweinstiger should be able to do. Maccabia Hafia is no problem. I expect them to reach the Semis of the competition.

Bayern's team for their next game against Stuttgart should look like this :

GK: Butt (He played alot better against Wolfsburg then Rensing would of. It was Rensing's fault for one of Mainz's goal.)

LB: Pranjic (Just some more attacking options I feel he can be more effectivethen Braahfield)

CB: Badstuber for the moment (Demichiles should get this place when he comes back. Stability and experience is needed. And Badstuber lacks both.)

CB: Van Buyten

RB: Lahm

CDM: Tymoschuck (Even when Van Bommel comes back. He is much better then Van Bommel)

LW: Robben

CM: Schweinstiger

RW: Ribery

FW: Olic (Yes over Klose. Works alot harder, gets in way more crosse, tackles etc.)

FW: Gomez (Bayern don't need Toni's height for crosses as this guy is tall enough to head also, better with his feet.)

Why Liverpool need another striker?

Time is ticking for Rafa. Liverpool are expected for a serious title challenge or to win the title this season. But, can he with only one striker?

Over the past seasons Steven Gerrard has carried Liverpool to top four places. After, they acquired Fernando Torres off Atletico Madrid for around 20 million pounds, times were looking up at Merseyside. Last season they contended against Manchester United for the Premiership title but, fell short due to many dissappointing home draws. They may have only lost twice in the whole campaign and did not lose at home but, the draws stacked up against them and a more consistant Manchester United side won.

Recently, Xabi Alonso left Liverpool for Real Madrid in a 30 million euro deal. Liverpool immediatley found a replacement in Roma player, Alberto Aquillaini. While making a 10 million euro profit off Alonso, as they bought Aquillaini for 20 million euros. However, Aquillaini was still injured but, Lucas would slot into Xabi Alonso's place for the time being. Losing Alonso made Liverpool lose a player with excellent techinical ability on the ball, the best passer of the ball in the Premiership, a great defensive midfielder and a player who had an amazing shot and eye for goal. However, even if Xabi Alonso stayed at Liverpool, Liverpool would have still needed another striker.

The main threat of goals from Liverpool come off Fernando Torres. Previously, they bought Dirk Kuyt but, he wasn't a convincing finisher and has drifted torwards the left wing for Liverpool. Liverpool found a second striker in Robbie Keane who they bought off fellow Premiership club Tottenham Hotspur. But, his performances last season shown him to be a flop and they sold him back to Tottenham Hotspur. Liverpool had bought Keane for 20 million pounds and sold him back to Tottenham Hotspur for 13 million pounds. It was like a 7 million loan deal for Tottenham Hotspur. When Torres was out for Liverpool they struggled to find the net due to Keane's poor form and nobody being a clinical finisher.

Liverpool bought Glen Johnson over the summer. A good buy. Arbeloa knew first team football was limited due to Johnson being a abtter player then him. So, he went off to the revolution happening at Real Madrid, where Perez is creating a new era of Galaticos. Johnson was something that Liverpool needed on the right side. A player that would attack down the right wing and cause problems for the opposing left back. While he could defend well anyway.

Being the lone striker for Torres is difficult especially, when Liverpool are playing badly. In his first season he notched up 25 goals in the Premiership. His second season he was plagues with a hamstring injury and did not perform to his very best. With a second striker it would take the pressure off Torres and would make it harder for defenders to mark out the Liverpool attack. Four Defenders against one attacker at times can be terrible for Liverpool. Liverpool were linked with players such as, Lavezzi of Napoli this summer but, a striker that is not that consistant wouldn't help their aspirations of winning the Premiership.

I would of liked players such as Edin Dzeko and Mauro Zarate. Lazio purchased Zarate after a sucessful loan spell there and he did excel when he played for Bimringham City in the Premiership on loan. Dzeko was the second best striker in the German Bundesliga last season just behind his striker partner at Vfl Wolfsburg, Grafite. But, he was seven years younger at the age of 23 and had alot more seasons off good football ahead of him.

Rafa Benitez ignores the fact that one striker isn't enough. If not one striker surely an attacking midfielder would be necessary to slit back from midfield to attack and put less pressure on Gerrard and Torres. In recent days they have been linked with Rafael Van Der Vaart which, would be perfect in my opinion.

Furthermore, Liverpool panic bought Sotiris Kyrgiakos off AEK Athens as they had defensive problems as Skrtel went out with injury with a jaw problem, Agger out for six weeks with a back problems and Auerellio out aswell. Plus, Jamie Carragher played the game where they beat Stoke 4-0 with a heavily bandaged head.

The main reason they lost against Tottenham Hotspur was that they did not have a second striker. Tell me what you guys think are Liverpool's problems?

Does Inter really need a playmaker?

So, does Inter Milan really need a playmaker? Jose Mourinho definatley thinks so and is rumoured to be wanting Wesley Sneidjer of Real Madrid. Sneidjer is not guaranteed first team football at Real but, does not want to leave them. That is the stumbling block in he deal. How, do you convince somebody that does not want to leave, to leave? Other options include fellow unwanted Dutchman at Real Rafael Van Der Vaart who, is looking for a new club. He would be cheaper then Sneidjer but, not as techinally good. For example, his killer pass is not as good as Sneidjer's killer pass. Furthermore, they have been linked with players such as, Ivan Rakitic of FC Schalke 04 and Jeremy Menez of Roma.

Today, Inter drew with newly promoted Bari from Serie B at the San Siro. It was a shock. Mourinho stated they were no excuses for Inter's performance and that they just played badly. Inter wasn't dominant but, alot better with the ball. Diego Milito who scored 24 goals for Genoa last season, looked like a show of his former self. He wasn't as strong and lethal and never impressed throughout two halfs. The only contributions he made was being fouled and getting a penalty (he did fall down quite easily though but, Eto'o converted it and scored on his Inter debut) and tackling a Bari defender and setting up Eto'o for a one-on-one shot against the Bari goalkeeper which, Eto'o amazingly put wide! Eto'o looked strong and eager but again the passes to him and Milito were not good enough. That is probably one of the reasons Mourinho wanted a playmaker. To pull the strings for the team. He wants a pupetteer! Then, Bari responded and scored on the break. Due to Muntari coming off injured due to his hand, Balotelli came on mid-way through the first half and Ricardo Quaresma came on as a half time substitue for Patrick Viera as they were drawing 0-0 at half time and Mourinhio wanted Inter to score. Both of these players are not known for tracking back so, Bari scored easily on the break. The game ended 1-1.

Highlights of the game.

Thiago Motta never really impressed. I can see him as the replacement for Javier Zanetti when he retires. And Zanetti who is currently playing at left back will give that role to Davide Santon. However, Quaresma who had a shocker of a season last season. Put in a few good crosses into the box and terrorised that left side of midfield. He actually pulled off his signature cross,'The Rabona' (where he puts his right foot behind his left leg and kicks the ball with his right foot when his legs are crossed) and also, he done his favourite cross (the one where he kick it with the outside of his right boot). The crosses created chances but, Milito and Eto'o failed to convert any. Mourinho should of started Quaresma over Viera. Viera looked slow and did not bring anything attacking to the team.

I think the formation for Inter is the problem. They play a diamond shape. Last season they had Zlatan Ibrahimovic. He is a strong striker but, also a playmaker. He creates chances out of nothing for them and scores any goals. Eto'o is unlike him. He is a batter finisher but, not a playmaker. Last season a diamond formation may have worked but, that was beacuse they had Ibrahimovic, a playmaker. The formation must change or they must buy an accomplished playmaker. The only viable ones I see are Van Der Vaart and Sneidjer. As Sneidjer does not want to leave, Van Der Vaart seems the only option. They need somebody accomplsihed in the game as they want to retain their Serie A crown and win the title five seasons in a row.

Jose Mourinho is known not to work well with wingers. His diamond formation he uses does not help wingers. At Chelsea he had the same problem. He may of not used a diamond formation there but, the type of football they played did not help them. Shaun Wright Phillips of Manchester City never really impressed there and became a bench boy and he never really unlocked the potential of Arjen Robben. Last season he bought Ricardo Quarsema off FC Porto and Mancini off Roma. Both good winges. Quaresma may have flopped before in Spain with Barcelona but, he was only 19 years old when he moved there. Mancini was always a starter for Roma for years and played very well for them. The diamond formation never benefited them and soon both of them benched. But, if Mourinhio chose to play with two wingers and change to a 4-4-2 formation surely more service to Eto'o and Milito would happen? Mancini and Quaresma could go down the wings and cut inside and pass to them or cross it into the box or even cut inside and take shots. Cambiasso and Stankovic would play in central midfield. Stankovic could go forward while Cambiasso could stay back and do his defensive midfielder suties. As Cambiasso is out after surgery at the moment. Thiago Motta will have to play in the middle. Or maybe Patrick Viera. But, my choice straight away would be Thiago Motta. Another option for Cambiasso is Muntari. He wouldn't act as a defensive midfilder though but, would go forward while Stankovic goes forward. So, if Muntari is playing alongside Stankovic it will be a stright line of four midfilders. If it is Thiago Motta, Stankovic and himself will be slightly behing Quaresma and Mancini. Zanetti is getting old and I think its his time to hand up his boots. Santon is younger and is alongside Marco Motta of Roma as being the future of Italian defenders. Lucio at Centre Back is fine. Howeverr, Walter Samuel is definatley not. Cordoba should of started. If not him well Chivu should be further in the pecking order then Samuel. Chivu would be probabaly better suited ifthey played a stright line of four as he is faster then Cordoba and can track back quicker. And if they need any more spice up front or in midfield. They can have Balotelli on the bench. Also, they have brought Marko Arnanovotic from FC Twente on loan to go on for Eto'o or Milito if they are misfiring on goal. Players like Maicon are undisputed starters. So, my formations for Inter Milan would be:

4-4-2

Julio Ceaser

Maicon Chivu Lucio Santon

Quaresma Muntari Stankovic Mancini

Eto'o Milito

or

4-2-2-2

Julio Ceaser

Maicon Cordoba Lucio Santon

Thiago Motta Stankovic

Quaresma Mancini

Eto'o Milito

Subs for both formations : Balotelli, Arnanotovic, Samuel, Chivu/Cordoba, Zanetti, Samuel, Viera, Toldo etc

If they do not get a playmaker or chose not to get a playmaker. I feel these formations would benfit their fowards. They won't go and link up with the midfiled and create chnaces of rthe team like Ibrahimovic does. They need the team to come to them. Mancini and Quaresma being wingers would do this.

They need to buy a playmaker or chnage their formation quickly. They have one week until the big San Siro derby between themselves and AC Milan. Ronaldinhio seems to be back on form. Maybe the thought of the 2010 World Cup is on his mind. Less partying and more concentration on football. He set up Pato for a dissallowed goal with an inswingin free kick. It was dissallowed as Pato was marginally offside. He set up Pato for his second goal when he slipped it through the Siena defnce and Pato buried it when he was one on one with the keeper. For Milan's second goal he done a great pass to Flamini who had to just square it to Pato in the six yard box to finish which, he did. Also, he had an overhead kick which was just tipped over the bar.

Highlights of the AC Milan game. It includes Ronaldinhio's over head kick!

So Milan's playmaker is Ronaldinhio and Juventus' is Diego. Inter need somebody to pull the strongs or to change their formation. Tell me what you guys think?

Argentina : The Decaying Mona Lisa Part 2 ROAR BACK THE RABBIT!

I left out a few names of Argentina players who I never mentioned due to their form last season for their clubs.

The first one is Javier Saviola. He has always been known as a goalscorer but, wasn't like by Frank Rijkaard at Barcelona so, he was loaned out. Eventually, he signed for Real Madrid when he fell out of favour there. After, seasons on the bench he left Real for Benfica. He impressed for Benfica during Pre-Season and scored his first official goal for them in their Europa League game where they beat Vorslka 4-0. If Saviola can score 15+ goals this season for Benfica and show Maradona that he can get past defences like he used to. His name should be considered.

Last season was not one of the best for Angel Di Maria. He wasn't on form for Benfica last season. He is guaranteed the left wing space for Benfica but, now he has competition for it by Fabio Coentrao he should try harder. At the start of Maradona's reign of Argentina National Team Coach Di Maria was in the squad, now due to his form he is not. Di Maria has to start getting back on form. If he does he could easily replace Battaglia and Datolo. He could even challenge Guitterez for a starting place.

Real Madrid have stated that they do not want to sell Gago. The only problem withthis is due to the arrival of Xabi Alonso he won't get alot of playing time. Lassana (Lass) Diarra is rated higher them him due to his better performances for Real last season. So, he is the third choice Defensive Midfielder. And if Real play with 1 or 2 Defensive Midfielders he won't get a game. Not alot of playing time won't help his chances into getting into the National Team. He like Di Maria lost form and their place. Real see Gago as a future product and maybe the succeeder to Xabi Alonso who will be 28 this year. His best bet is asking to go on loan to a good team playing in the Europa League. For example, Valencia, Everton, Villarreal, Roma, Genoa etc. Where he is guaranteed first team football. A team in the Champion's League like VFL Wolfsburg, VFB Stuttgart, Marseille etc. Would be even better.

Collocini was an automatic starter when he played for Deportivo. His form saw him leave them for Newcastle United for 16 million euros. But the poor team form affected his owen form. And he started doing terrible mistakes. His confidence took a blow and he didn't look like the player who defended so well at Deportivo. He never really adapted to the English game. There are rumours linking him to Espanyol to replace the tragic, sudden death of their captain Daniel Jarque. He needs to be playing in a top league, he needs this move.

Another names include Cavenaghi of Bordeaux, Alejandro Dominguez of Rubin and German Denis of Napoli who need breakthrough seasons to get a place in the Argentina National team. Both of looked good but, nothing over that. Seeing that Rubin and Bordeaux are playing in the Champion's League, Dominguez and Cavenaghi can both show Maradona how they perform on Europe's biggest stage.

Players like Bergressio of San Lorenzo and Boselli of Estudiantes have played well in Argentina but, to contend for a place a move to a top Europe league would help them greatly.

Also, Guitterez has been linked with a move to Barcelona. I guess to replace Hleb who went on loan to VFB Stuttgart. He needs to leave Newcastle. But, would he just become a bench warmer and a back up to Xavi, Iniesta or Yaya Toure. Most likely.

With Negredo moving to Sevilla from Madrid, Acosta will get even less games. He has never impressed there. Acosta like Gago needs a loan move.. But, Sevilla are more likely willing to sell him. If so, a good team in the Europa League would be perfect.

I just hope to see the Rabbit aka Saviola back on form. What do you guys think? Do any of these players stand a chance of getting into the World Cup 2010 Argentina National team?

Argentina, : The Decaying Mona Lisa?

After a 6-0 defeat to Bolivia and a 2-0 defeat to Ecuador, Argentina look in major trouble. Two crunch games against Brazil and Paraguay next in World Cup Qualifying could see them out of contention for qualifying to the World Cup.

After the narrow 3-2 win over Russia, Argentina coach Diego Maradona said to the press about not picking Gonzalzo Higuain, "Saying that the Gringo has informed me badly about Higuain is only to stir trouble. The Gringo doesn't want to influence me in anything. The day I consider that Pipa Higuain should be in the national team I will call him. I have no problems. But for now it is impossible. I have Diego Milito, I have Lisandro [Lopez], and [Ezequiel] Lavezzi''.

This seriously shocked me!

Lisandro Lopez's season was nothing special. He played in the Portuguese League which, is nowhere near as strong as the Spanish La Liga. The only teams competing against FC Porto are Benfica and Sporting Lisbon. FC Porto won the league by six points and did not look under threat of losing their title. They have won four titles in a row. Lisandro Lopez may have been the main goalscorer there with 49 goals in 106 games but, with their main competition Benfica and Sporting and the 13 other teams are pushovers. Benfica did win the title in the 2003-2004 season but, apart from that season they have been disappointing. Last season he only scored 10 goals in 28 appearances in his league. He did score 6 Champion's League goals in 10 games which, is impressive. Due to the poor league where he shined he needs to play well at Lyon to deserve his call up.

Ezequiel Lavezzi. I feel some bicest here. He plays for Napoli and is seen as their star. Maradona played for Napoli and was seen as there idol. Maradona obviously loves Napoli and hat may be the reason why he oversees Lavezzi over Higuain. Lavezzi is known for his skills and acceleration with the ball. This may look good but for the central spearhead and main attacker of Napoli he hasn't really made the net enough times. His first season was understandable seeing as he had to adapt with Italian football, 8 goals in 35 games. However, his second season only saw him score 7 goals in 30 games.

Diego Milito has proved his worth. He scored 24 goals in 31 games for Genoa last season. That saw them come fifth in Serie A. He was inspirational for them. Losing him will hurt there chances but, they have recruited many players and have spent their money wisely. I would keep a eye out for Genoa. Many people say Juventus and Inter are the teams to watch. But, Genoa have a good chance of coming 3rd or 4th due to Milan not strengthening this season and being so close to Fiorentina last season who came 4th. His move to Inter Milan will help him get a better supply of passes and competing in the Champion's League will give him a better feel of big games and better defenders he plays week in, week out. Also, with players such, as Samuel Eto'o, Esteban Cambiasso and Javier Zanetti next to him, he can only improve.

Gonzalzo Higuain in the 2008-2009 season (last season) was Real Madrid's top scorer . He scored 22 goals in 34 appearances for the club and was definitely starting to repay that 13 million euros Real paid River Plate for him at the age of 19 in 2006. Also, he done 9 assists. With this form in one of the top leagues in the world you would expect Higuain to be chosen for Argentina. Also, seeing as he plays second striker or on the wing due to Raul being the central spearhead his score ratio is even more impressive. He has outdone Lavezzi and Lopez but, both still get the nod over him. Lately, he has voiced his frustration. Noting if he keeps constantly getting ignored by Maradona he will play for France instead. Due to his mother being French. A French trident of attack. Between Benzema his fellow Real teammate, Andre-Pierre Gignac (top scorer in the French Ligue 1 with 24 goals in 38 games for FC Toulouse, helping them finish fourth and gain qualification for the Europe League) and himself would help France find the net more which, they have been struggling to do. So, Higuain should replace at least Lavezzi.

Another Argentinean striker who should run a race with Lopez as a striker in the Argentina National team is Mauro Zarate of Lazio. Zarate was inspirational for Lazio last season. He helped them win the Coppa Italia. Scoring one goal and one penalty for them in the final. This gained them entry into next season's Europe League. He scored 13 goals in 35 games for them while on loan there. And the move became permanent. For 25 million euros. Unfortunately, Zarate had to pay 20 million of those euros as he did not want to return to the middle East to play football due to the quality of it and his chances of getting into the National team would be extinct. Previously, before moving to Zarate he went on loan to Birmingham City near the end of the English Premier League season. In six appearances for Birmingham City he scored 4 goals. His best goal came from an equalising free kick against Everton. Sadly, this was not enough to see them stay up and they were relegated. And Zarate wanted to play top football week in, week out so he left them. Zarate resurrected Lazio last season and was seen as the best youth player in the league that season by many admirers of Serie A. He even outshone Milan's Brazilian sensation Alexandre Pato. Him and Lopez will compete next season for a place in that squad. If he moved to a bigger club then Lazio his path to the Argentina National team would be easy. A team like Chelsea or Juventus would help him alot but, he has fallen in love with Lazio and they have fallen in love with them.

At Lazio.

His free kick at Everton.

Other players in contention of making the striking options are Lucas Barrios who scored 37 goals in 38 games for Chile's Colo Colo. He moved to Bourissia Dortmund for 4 million euros. If he can perform that goal scoring form for Dortmund he will have a chance.

Furthermore, Genoa have bought Rodrigo Palacio off Boca Juniors to replace Diego Milito. Veterans like Hernan Crespo and Julio Cruz have left Inter to find more playing time and if they play well they also, might find a way for the Argentina National Team for the World Cup.

Players like Datolo, Guitterez, Battaglia and Bollatti has never shone. Veron may have helped Estudiantes win the Copa Libertadores but,he didn't really have a huge impact. He should step down and allow younger talent to take a stake at a place in the National team. Guitterez now plays in the English Second Tier, The Championship for Newcastle United and if he doesn't leave soon I can see him losing his place quite quickly.

Esteban Cambiasso should be played alongside Javier Mascherano in midfield. He is one of the best Defensive Midfielders in the world and helped Inter win the Serie A last season. Maxi Rodrigues of Ateltico Madrid and Lucho Gonzalez of Marseille should be in the team if they carry on their form for their teams. Pastore who recently moved to Palermo of Serie A and Zucclini who moved to TSG 1899 Hoffenheim of the Bundesliga should be given a chance to show what they are capable of.

The Argentina defence needs strengthening. Walter Samuel does not get enough regular football to be in the Starting XI or the reserves at Inter and needs to move to a team where he will get t if he wants to go to the World Cup. The same can be applied to Nicolas Burdisso. However, a loan deal to Roma is in negotiations and if that goes through successfully he may get a place in the World Cup. Demichiles of Bayern, Zanetti of Inter and Heinze of Marseille should all be in the starting XI if they carry on their form for their teams. Demichiles may have to convince new Bayern coach Louis Van Gaal that he is better then Bayern's youth defender Holger Badstuber but, I think that he should be able to. Heinze leaving Real Madrid for Marseille strengthens his options of making the team as he will get more first team football. Getafe's Diaz has performed well and he and Burdisso may fight for the CB position. Players like Papa should be back up.

Argentina's weakest position is goalkeeper. Carrizo lost his position in the Lazio team as the number one goalkeeper and was loaned out to Real Zaragoza of the Spanish La Liga. Andujar of Catania in the Serie A is his competition. And after, Andujar started against Russia in the recent friendly, he seems to be first choice.

Undisputed starters are Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero. Messi was the world's best player last season. And Aguero may have not shone as much last season for Atletcio but, he done an amazing performance against Barcelona seeing Atletico beating them last season. He may be the father-in- law of Maradona but, he deserves his place in the team.

Many people feel Riquelme should be in the team. I feel like he is in the history of Argentinean football. His style is a slow paced game. And the type of Argentinean players playing in the big league play fast football. And his style conflicts with theirs.

Also, if Carlos Tevez performs for Manchester City he should gain a place.

So what is their best team, in my opinion :

Carrizo

Heinze Diaz Demichiles Zanetti (C)

Cambiasso Mascherano

Messi Lucho Higuain

Aguero

Subs : Milito, Zarate, Maxi Rodriguez, Burdisso, Andujar, Pastore, Zucculini, Tevez.

Two defensive midfielders in Cambiasso and Mascherano should control the midfield. Messi on left wing and Higuain on right will cause havoc and both of them can easily slip into attack. Lucho Gonzalez will have the playmaker role with all the game breaking passes. But, I haven't fully decided on this. Maybe Maxi Rodriguez would be better as he does play with Aguero the central spearhead of this formation at Atletico Madrid. Zanetti will be captain as he is the most experienced in the captain duties (He was captain at Inter Milan) and in the game. Zarate and Tevez are good impact subs. However, the central spearhead role is not guaranteed to Aguero. If Milito can carry his form for Inter and in the Champion's League he should get the nod ahead of him. The rest are back ups to players getting injured or suspeneded.

Or this formation :

Carrizo

Heinze Diaz Demichiles Zanetti (C)

Cambiasso Mascherano

Lucho

Messi Tevez

Aguero

Similar to Barcelona's. But, playing Messi and Tevez more deep and Cambiasso and Mascherano more deep. Messi and Tevez can play in attack more freely with less risk as two defensive midfielders are looking out if a break (counter-attack) happens against them.

Anyway what is your opinion on what the team should look like? And the current state of the National team. After losing 6-0 to Bolivia and 2-0 to Ecuador Argentina really need to beat Brazil in the next World Cup Qualifying to stay on track for the World Cup.

Hunterlaar : Will the Hunter be a success in Serie A?

Klaas Jan Hunterlaar is a role model in his native Holland. His goal scoring record there was immense and when he moved to Real Madrid from Ajax only people could see him succeeding there. However, another story occurred. Hunterlaar was used mainly as a sub and was considered a flop. They preferred there role model Raul. True, keeping the fans happy is a good idea. But, winning games is alot more crucial. And Hunterlaar would score alot more if he got the games that Raul got. Instead he was used a sub. 8 goals in 20 LaLiga games is not terrible. It was his first season and he did need to adapt.

The Hunter has now signed a deal for AC Milan. He wasn't the striker I wanted to see at Madrid. I wanted to see a younger Thierry Henry at Madrid which could run past defences. Not a goal poacher, like the Hunter. Madrid needed a player like Luis Fabiano or Edin Dzeko. However, I feel with him and Pato together. Both players can adapt and both will be able to change their style slightly to complement each other's skills.

I feel that Milan was cheap. They didn't want to stump up the money for Dzeko. So Gallaini said to Leonardo. We can't buy Dzeko. and Leonardo replied who? Well we have 15 million euros. So Hunterlaar maybe. And Leonardo said anything is better then Borellio.

Milan has made many mistakes this season. Selling Gourcuff is the major one. Perfect replacement for Kaka. Ancelotti didn't like him and then, sold him and then, left Milan? WHAT! So, he sold a great playmaker !

Give me your opinions on the Hunter?

The most exciting league to watch next season?

There are debates across the net all day long debating which, will be the best league to watch. The La Liga will obviously have the most exciting game, Barcelona vs Real Madrid. The current European champions with the best player in the world, Lionel Messi vs the Galaticos with players such as, Ronaldo and Kaka. However, due to this the La Liga looks like a two horse race. Making it predictable and not as exciting. Teams like Atletico Madrid, Sevilla, Villarreal and Valencia look like they will battle for 3rd and 4th the two extra Champion's League places. But, these four teams could cause both Barca and Real to lose points and could help the outcome of who wins LaLiga.

The Scudetto looks similar. Juventus have reinforced smartly. Brining in a playmaker in the form of Diego , a strong defensive midfielder, Felipe Melo and an experienced centre back Cannavaro. Inter, may have sold Ibrahimovic but they, got Milito, Eto'o and Thiago Motta. While, David Suazo comes back on loan from Benfica and a deal for FC Twente's Marko Arnauotovic is looking to be wrapped up shortly. Also, they have Italian prodigy Balotelli in their attacking ranks. Milan have not strengthened enough and sold their best player; Kaka. They did bring in Onyweu and Ibiatze but, both aren't enough. Talks for Hunterlaar and Fabregas have been ripe in the rumour world. But, they might just be that, rumours. Fiorentina, Roma and Genoa all look like to battle for the final Champion's League place. Genoa may have sold Thiago Motta and Milito to Inter but, they have replaced them wisely and have bought well this Summer. Fiorentina may have sold Melo but, they still have a strong team and Roma are always a threat but, can be inconsistent at times.

The German Bundesliga seems Bayern this season. A new coach with plenty of credentials, Louis Van Gaal and loads of summer signings :

Tymoshuck

Braahfield

Olic

Gomez

Baujmann

Pranjic

This team looks destined to win the Bundesliga. With selling Gomez to Bayern Stuttgart got weakened. But, recruited in Pogrebynak and got former player Hleb on loan. They are a team I see causing Bayern problems and being a title rival. The current Champions Vfl Wolfsburg would want to retain their crown and recruited in another forward, Obafemi Martins off Newcastle also, they kept onto Dzeko. But, with their manager Felix Magath leaving them could they win it again? Bayern did make many mistakes that allowed them to win it after all. Magath's new team Schalke 04 won't be a threat but will target Europe. Magath will take a few years into turning Schalke into a title threat like hid did with Wolfsburg. TSG 1899 Hoffenheim will target Europe alongside Dortmund who invested in prolific Argentina striker Lucas Barrios who netted 37 goals in 38 games for Colo Colo. Hertha Berlin will challenge for Champion's League football.

I may be British and call me bisect but, the Premier League in my honest opinion will be the best league to watch in the world. Ronaldo may have left but, this season due to this will be more competitive. Two battles will commence. Battle for fourth and the title. Chelsea haven't lost anybody and has gained a consistent left midfield option, Yuri Zhikirov. Malouda could be inconsistent and could not play well. Zhikirov is consistent and should take that place in the team for himself. Also, the arrival of new coach Carlo Ancelotti will help them greatly. Manchester United lost their playmaker and main goal scorer, Ronaldo and that will hurt them alot. They also, lost Carlos Tevez would scored vital goals and became a super sub for them. They replace them with Antonio Valencia and Micheal Owen. These two players were defiantly enough. Valencia solves the wing problem but, Owen does not solve the goal problem. Owen against a good defence will crumble in my honest opinion. He is out of his prime. Sure, he may have scored well in pre-season but, that was against teams in Asia. That is nothing to brag about. They needed to buy an accomplished attacker. I was thinking Edin Dzeko, Andre- Pierre Gignac, David Villa, Alvaro Negredo, Klass Jan Hunterlaar etc. Liverpool today have lost Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid. They lost a great holding player and need to replace him. Lucas isn't ready and seems a bad investment. He should be sold. Rumours have linked Alberto Aquillaini but, he isn't a defensive midfielder, he is a central midfielder or an attacking midfielder. Other rumours have linked Christian Poulsen. At 29 he is old and not very good. That is why Juventus is trying so hard to offload him to different clubs. Liverpool need to sort that problem out to win the title. If Liverpool sort out the Xabi replacement problem they should win the league. If they don't Chelsea should. Manchester United's reign should be over!

You may be shocked that haven't included Arsenal. Arsenal have lost their main goal threat, Emmanuel Adebayor. Arsenal fans may say good riddance but, who will get the goals. Van Persie is a second striker, who just plays behind the striker and is always out for half a season because he is injury prone. Niklas Bendter is a joke to Arsenal fans. Eduardo may be back but, he is fragile and I can see him getting injured if a hard tackle comes in. Arshavin may be forced to play in attack but, I feel his best performances come from midfield. Furthermore, Samir Nasri is out for six weeks to three months with a broken foot. Losing Toure makes it even worse for them. He was better then Gallas. And Gallas can cause problems in the changing room too. They have bought in Thomas Vermalaen. But, I think he will take a season to adapt. Youngsters such as Jack Wilshire look promising but, if Arsenal do not win a trophy for the fifth year running I can see Arsene Wenger being sacked. Also, him not brining in a replacement for Adebayor could cost him his job as talks with Bordeux about Chamakh have broken down! So, Arsenal enter the race for fourth place in my opinion. Also, Manchester City do. They have recruited Adebayor, Barry, Santa Cruz, Tevez and Toure and look like they shall play a 4-3-3 formation like Barcelona. They are close to agreeing a deal for Lescott which, will strengthen their defence their weakpoint last season. Spurs have a tremendous come back last season and nearly got a place in europe after being bottom halfway in the season. But, new manager Harry Redknapp turned it around coming 8th and missing europe by one place. People bank on Spurs to cause an upset and get fourth. If that happened and Arsenal didn't make the top four, Wenger would defiantly lose his job. Aston Villa are a contender too. But, losing Barry will hurt and replacing him with Downing who will be out until early December seems a bad idea. They don't have a direct replacement. So, Steve Sidwell looks like he will be taking Barry's place for now. They also, bought Leeds prodigy Fabian Delph. But, I doubt he will get into the first team automatically. Everton are strong contenders for years and got into the top four years ago. Players are coming back from injury and they secured the signing of Jo on a season long loan. Lescott may be on the way out but, they are in talks with Arsenal on Senderos which, could be a replacement. However, I can only see City getting fourth with Arsenal missing out on fifth.

What will be the league to watch then in your opinion?

Hulk; the next Adriano?

When Adriano announced he quit Inter and is playing for Brazil, a search began. A search for the new main National team striker. Dunga; the Brazil National Coach wants most of his first team players to play in Europe. Names were thrown around like Luis Fabiano, Pato, Nilmar and Grafite. Grafite was the most worthy to take his place due to his impressive scoring record at Vfl Wolfsburg that season. Luis Fabiano finally got the place as Dunga is reluctant to play Pato; even as a sub. However, I felt that another player deserved to be mentioned, Hulk.

Hulk plays for Porto and was bought off Tokyo Verdy. He had an impressive first season. Shining in the Champion's League. Especially against Atletico Madrid. He helped Porto beat them and the Spanish press subbed him the new Ronaldo. His strength and shots are similar like Ronaldo but, his style of play is different. Hulk uses a variety of tricks and skills in his play.

Due to Lisandro Lopez leaving Hulk got the main lead at Porto. And he has shone in Pre season. Scoring 3 goals in the Peace Cup. 2 against Lyon knocking them out of the competition and 1 against Villa, a penalty. This season he seems to be taking the lead and Falcao is going to be the second striker. If he has another impressive season i would expect him to get in the 2010 World Cup Squad. He deserves a spot more then Diego Tardelli of Atletico Minierio for sure. What do you guys think?

We're going to the Middle Eastlands !

Manchester City have recruited many forwards this Summer. With this players like Jo and Bojinov have gone on loan. To Everton and Parma respectively. Also, youth product Ched Evans was sold to lower league Sheffield United for 3.5 million pounds. Elano left for Galatasaray and Sturridge for Chelsea. Adebayor, Kolo Toure, Roque Santa Cruz, Gareth Barry and Carlos Tevez all came in. City had spent over 100 million pounds. Their manger Mark Hughes still wants to buy more. And with their Middle East owner. Things look brighter for Manchester City. The problem is with buying 3 forwards for 17 million+ all 3 expect to be starting. So, how do you build the perfect City team? They will most likely use Barcelona's formation. 4-3-3. So, what will City look like next season :

Given

Bridge Toure Dunne Richards

Ireland Barry Robinho

Tevez Adebayor Santa Cruz

Subs : Wright Phillips, Onuha, Bellamy, Garrido

Barry will most likely play a deeper role in midfield while staying back a bit and allowing Ireland and Robinho to cause havoc down the wings. Tevez can slot back into the midfield to help them gain possession as he has good determination and never gives up. Dunne may not be in the team soon. Due to City pursuing Lescott of Everton. And if they fail with Lescott. I can see Upson being their back up from West Ham. Or maybe their young talent, Nedum Onuha will take Dunne's place. He did not play very good last season.

I can see Robinho playing much better this season due to more talent being around him. Last season a depressed, moaning Robinho scored 14 goals. I can see him scoring 20-25 goals next season. Santa Cruz and Adebayor can be targets in the box for headers which, City lacked last season.

The only thing I can see stopping City is if they let anger consume them. Robinho can moan and so can Adebayor. Furthermore, Bellamy can moan aswell. And I can see him moaning as he won't get a first team place. He should be offloaded this summer or during the winter transfer window. Or become a bench warmer/super sub.

Wright-Phillips may leave aswell. Ireland is a better player and can control the midfield well. He should leave this summer or during the winter transfer window.

People criticised Manchester City for buying 3 accomplished forwards and not sorting out their defence first which, was their weakpoint last season. They also, bought an experienced playmaker in the form of Gareth Barry. He can make passes for these forwards. They are now concentrating on defence. After buying Toure. They look at Lescott. All I can say it is exciting times at Manchester City !.

Galatasary a force in Europe and Turkey again?

Galatasary is a team that has faded in recent years. A poor season seen them just qualify for the Europa League and not win any silverware. Their manager resigned and they needed a new manager and new signings to rejuvenate the team once more. Then came Frank Rijkaard.

He announced he wanted to play a 4-3-3 formation like his did in Spain with Barcelona. He wanted Gala to play attacking football once more. He signed Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Leo Frano on a free transfer as his contract at the club expired. Then, he signed Kader Keita off Lyon. Keita is a versatile winger which, can play on the left or the right wing. He can also play up front aswell and is the attacking minded player Rijkaard wanted. Today he signed Elano from Manchester City. The Brazillian International cost him 8 million pounds. He is an attacking midfielder that usually play on the right of the midfield and is specialized in free kicks and penalties.

With talent in the form of Arda Turan and Harry Kewell it will be hard for Rijkaard to build a team. I can see him buying better defenders soon as his midfield seems complete. Maybe one more forward aswell.

Franco

Balta Zan Cetin Ucar

Turan Kewell Elano

Keita Baros Nonda

Maybe Ozcan will replace Nonda as he played well on loan for Gaziantepspor last season. Netting 17 goals in 31 games.

With this team they may progress in Europe too. What do you guys think?

Buying youth talent?

Recently AC Milan President and Italian Prime Minister, Berlusconi announced that Milan wouldn't buy the final product of a player due to it costing alot of money and would instead buy youth talent. The new AC Milan manager Leonardo disagreed with this view and said Milan needed to buy experience or they wouldn't achieve their goals.

FC Porto has proven youth talent can come with great rewards. However, Serie A is a much stronger league then the Portuguese Premier League and Inter, Juve, Roma, Genoa and Fiorentina will rip apart a team made out of young promising stars. Arsenal of the English Premier League decided to invest in youth instead of experience and they have not won a trophy in four years. Instead they develop youth talent and see it taken away from them. For example, Hleb to Barcelona, Adebayor to Manchester City and Flamini to AC Milan. When Arsenal chose experience over youth they had a formidable team that went fifty games unbeaten over the 2003/2004 season. However, they did have youth.

So, a perfect balance of youth and experience is needed. This season many teams have decided to nip abroad to Argentina, Brazil and Eastern Europe to purchase players due to the prices of Western Europe being damaged due to Manchester City and Real Madrid's crazy spending sprees.

Bourussia Dortmund have bought Lucas Barrios off Colo Colo of Chile for 4 million euros. He scored 37 goals in 38 games last season. And if he could reproduce this form he could make Dortmund go one better then their last season's seventh and go sixth and qualify for Europe. He is replacing Dortmund's regular goalscorer, Frei who left for his first club FC Basel. Dortmund want him to recreate his form he had for Col Colo in Germany so, they can qualify for Europe and maybe challenge for the Bundesliga.

Villarreal bought Nilmar off Internacial of Brazil for 11 million euors. Nilmar had a stint in Europe already for Lyon. He scored a hatrick on his debut but, couldn't score any more for the rest of his time there. So, they sold him to Internacional. Due to his form there he got called into the Brazil squad and was also, in the Confedarations Cup Squad.

Barcelona have already located Thierry Henry's replacement. The 20 year old Brazillian from Palmerias, Keirrison for 14 million euros. They have loaned him out on a one year deal to Benfica where he can gain experience.

Napoli have acquired Erwin Hoffer from SK Rapid Wien for 5.5 million euros. He scored 27 goals in 34 games last season for SK Rapid Wien. He will have to compete with Quagrellia, Lavezzi (who may be on the way out), Pia, Denis and Zalayeta for a starting place. He should beat Pia, Denis and Zalayeta easily but, trying to beat Lavezzi and Quagrellia will be hard.

Palermo pulled off the coup of the summer transfer window though. They bought Pastore off Huracan. Pastore nearly guided Hurucan to the Argentinean championship. A dramatic last day loss saw Velez win the title. Palermo have high hopes for Pastore and the President and coach Walter Zenga believe they can qualify for the Champions League and challenge for the Scudetto.

Real Madrid have called back Negredo and Granero. These two remind me of Raul and Guti. I can see them becoming the new symbols that represent Real Madrid. Negredo scored 18 goals last season for Almeria and 13 goals the season before that for Almeria.

Hamburger SV have bought Marcus Berg after he shown what he is capable of at the Under 21 European Championship. He scored 7 goals and became the all time top scorer for Under 12 European Championship history. He also, had a prolific record at FC Gronigen. Hamburger also, recruited the Eredivise best youth player Elia off FC Twente.

Staying with Twente Marko Arnauotivic looks set to leave for Inter Milan.

In the past players have been bought young. Like Fernando Torres from Atletico Madrid to Liverpool for 20 million pounds. Yes it was alot but, now his value has doubled and probably tripled with the current transfer market. Also, Juventus bought Ibrahimovic off Ajax for pennies compared to what Barceona bought him for.

I will be keeping an eye out for Nilmar and Barrios. Mainly Nilmar. Which youth talent are you interested in who has been signed?

How to make the perfect Real Madrid team?

So many talented players. With Hunterlaar, Van Der Vaart and Heinze all shown the exit door by Pelligrini what will be his starting XI. My thoughts are :

Casillias

Marcelo Pepe Raul Abilol Sergio Ramos

Robben Sneidjer Kaka Ronaldo

Benzema Higuain

or

Casillias

Marcelo Pepe Raul Abilol Sergio Ramos

Gago Lass Diarra

Robben Kaka Ronaldo

Benzema

They have bought back Negredo and Granero though. Granero has taken Van Der Vaart's shirt number and Nergredo has been a prolific striker for Almeria in the past two seasons. Will they loan Negredo back out. Most likely. Seeing as Raul, Higuain and Benzema are all ahead of him starting as a striker in the first team. And will Granero be loaned back out? He has to compete with Gago, Lass Diarra, Sneidjer, Diarra, Robben, Kaka and Ronaldo. Garay whohas come back on loan for Racing Santander will be there in the mix too. So, if Pepe or Raul Abilol go off form he can jump into the team. Real seem to be on the basis of singing Liverpool right back Arbeloa. So, he will compete with Ramos for the right back position. However, he can play left back too. There is also, Miguel Torres but, I doubt he will be a threat to any defensive position and should be sold soon.

My favourite XI would have to be tho :

Casillias

Marcelo Pepe Ramos

Robben Sneidjer Kaka Ronaldo

Negredo Benzema Higuain

Everybody at Real Madrid especially, the fans stress the importance of Real winning but, winning beautifully. This team would in my opinion. Real's weak point last season was their defence so, I can foresee many disagreeing with this team and formation already. However, if you keep the ball and continuously attack you will not have to al;ways defend like Real did alot of last season. Sneidjer, Kaka and Robben all know how to keep the ball. Marcelo and Ramos can run down the wings aswell. Negredo is a tall, goal poacher and Benzema and Higuain are natural goalscorers too.

What would your starting XI be for Real Madrid? All I know if Pelligrini doesn't win the LaLiga or Champion's League this season he will be sacked.

Barcelona : Crazy or Genius?

So, let me get this right. Eto'o plus 43.5 million euros and Hleb on a season long loan for Zlatan Ibrahimovic. keeping in mind he will be out for three weeks with a broken left hand. So, he 'll be back in late August. Its a huge risk for Barcelona for a player that has dazzled against weaker teams but, when it comes to the big stage crumbles and does not look world class. Compared to Eto'o who does the complete opposite. The fee is basically saying Ibrahimovic is as just as good as Cristiano Ronaldo which, I have to disagree with. Some may think so, but in my opinion he is nowhere near. Ibrahimovic scored 29 goals in all competitions last season. 25 in Serie A. Eto'o scored over 30 for Barcelona last season. Eto'o is one year older aswell.

Inter manager, Jose Mourinhio has said that he feels Eto'o is not one euro less then Ibrahimovic. It is obviously good business for Inter. And with over 40 million euros to spend. They can buy another one or two world class players to strengthen their team and make them hunt for a fourth consecutive Serie A title. Hleb will help Inter aswell. after Quaresma and Mancini failed on the wing where he may not. Plus, it may get his career back on track after, a disappointing season at Barcelona. Inter has been linked with Cassano but, I cannot see them buying him. With Eto'o and Milito up front. They have two strikers which, can score 30 goals each a season. Their team next season should be :

Julio Ceaser

Santon Chivu Lucio Maicon

Motta Cambiasso

Hleb Stankovic

Milito Eto'o

Subs : Zanetti, Muntair, Wuaresma etc

Some may disagree with leaving out Zanetti and Cordoba but, space is limited.

If Ibrahimovic doesn't score at least 20 for Barcelona next season they shall be in trouble. Real Madrid have recruited the likes of Kaka and Ronaldo to the Bernabeu and those players can change games around in a heart beat.

What is your opinion on the deal?

Rejuvenating Juventus

With Inter Milan running away with the Scudetto for three whole seasons. Juventus and AC Milan has been left in the dust. At the end of the season they sacked Claudio Ranieri and bought in Ciro Ferrira. This season Juventus fans wanted to see new signings. Nedved retiring from football opened the way for a playmaker to replace him in the team. Juve has been strongly linked with Werder Bremen playmaker Diego for the past two years and they finally agreed a deal to bring him to Juve costing them 24.5 million euros. They then strengthened their midfield further by buying another Brazilian. This time it was Felipe Melo off Serie A rivals Fiorentina for 20.5 million euros plus Marco Machionni going to Fiorentina. Bringing back Fabio Cannavaro off Real Madrid would bolster thier defence. Juve has been linked in brining Barcelona defender Martin Cacereso a season long loan from Barcelona. And has been linked to Lavezzi and Pandev. Two strikers which, would help them score more. With Ibrahimovic leaving Inter this week for Barcelona; a player many believe is the only reason Inter has won the Scudetto for three seasons in a row and AC Milan failing to buy anybody significant this season. Juventus will feel that the Scudetto is theirs for the taking this season. Their team will probably look like this :

Buffon

Molinaro Chilleni Cannavaro Grygera

Tiago Diego Felipe Melo Camronsei

Del Piero Amauri

Subs : Iaqunita, Marchision, Giovinco etc

Here is Diego at Werder:

If Diego plays well and as good as he played for Werder, Juve will have a genuine title shot. Him and Felipe Melo can control the midfield and Juve's possession. Plus, if he players well for Juve he will get back into the Brazil National team. With an aging Milan team and an Ibrahimovic-less Inter can Juve win the Scudetto?

Buy, Sell Profit = Win?

I am not a fan or supporter of FC Porto of Portugal however, I am an admirer of their transfer policy, the way they play and how the team has developed in Europe these past few years.

Furthermore, I was interested in their Summer departures and players incoming into their team. With losing their captain Lucho Oscar Gonzalez to Ligue 1 side Marseille for 18 million euros. This fee could rise to 24 million euros depending on Gonzalez's performances. This shows good business for FC Porto. They bought Gonzalez in 2005 for 4.6 million euros however, they only bought half of his rights. When he became captain on November, 2006 they bought the rest of his rights for 6.65 million euros. That is a potential 14 million euros profit. Two more Porto players left for Ligue 1. These were Lisandro Lopez; Porto's main goalscorer for the last few seasons and left back Aly Cissohko. Lyon bought Lopez for 24 million euors and that could rise to 28 million euros depending on his performance. Lopez was bought in to replace Karim Benzema who moved to Real Madrid. Porto gained a huge potential profit of 26.5 million euros as they bought Lopez for 2.5 million euros off Argentinean club, Racing Club.Cissohko moved to Lyon for 15 million euros. He was on the verge of moving to Milan for the same price but Milan pulled out of the deal due to bad dental problems which, could affect his spine in later years. Milan wanted him at a lower price but, Porto did not want to budge on him. Porto only bought him for 300,000 thousand euros so, this is a profit of 14.7 million. Altogether that is a profit 55.2 million euro profit.

You would expect Porto to replace these big names with big names. Wrong. They replace them with young talent. Usually coming from South America. To replace Lopez they bought Radamel Falcao off River Plate. To replace Gonzlez they bought Fernando Belluschi off Olympiacos for 5 million euros. Furthermore, they beat arch rivals Benfica to the singing of left back Alvaro Pereira to replace Aly Cissohko. New signing include Beto off Lexioes to compete with the inconsistent Helton, Orlando Sa off Braga, Valeri off Argentinean club Lanus and Sebastian Prediguer off Colon to fight Fernando for the defensive midfield starting place. The new team will look like this :

Beto

Pereira Rolando Bruno Alves Fucile

Fernando

Belluschi Meireles Rodriguez

Hulk Falcao

Subs : Helton, Valeri, Farias etc

Hulk's strength and Falcao's technical ability will be interesting and exciting to watch.

Falcao.

They go into the Champion's League group stage. How far do you think they will go in the Champion's League? I can see them winning their league again. Benfica may have acquired some good signings such, as Javier Saviola but, have acquired some bad ones such, as Weldon and Javi Garcia.