A Common Fan’s Sports Diary

In happier times for the United midfield

Enough has been written about the forward line. We are just going to concentrate on the mid-field.

We are not considering the out and out wing players for this post and that leaves out Nani and Valencia.

Owen Hargreaves – Had been pursued relentlessly by Ferguson to fill the void left by Roy Keane’s departure – a weakness cruelly exposed by Gennaro Gattuso and AC Milan in the Champions League Semis in 2007. Repaid the faith and part of the massive transfer fee with a fine 2008-09 season and then went missing. It’s surprising that the absence of Ronaldo and Tevez was brought up all the time but no one seemed to be missing Hargreaves. His presence could be a huge boost for 2010-11 especially against the bigger clubs.

Anderson – He was the reason why many united fans weren’t overly worried about missing Hargreaves (at the start of the season). The Brazilian had made a fine impression and had often relegated Hargreaves to the substitute’s bench. With the former Bayern midfielder out, Anderson was expected to start most of the games. But in the season his manager needed him the most, the Brazilian simply went missing; not even offering a semblance of competition for the starting role.

Fletcher has been United's only reliable ball winner in midfield

Darren Fletcher the destroyer – With Hargreaves out and Anderson struggling with form, Darren Fletcher’s continued excellence from last season came to Fergie’s rescue. As United’s sole ball-winning midfielder, he was always a guaranteed selection in the playing eleven. He had another fine season and made crucial contributions in many key games but didn’t take the next big step in his development. He still isn’t in the same league as Owen Hargreaves, especially when it comes to big European nights.

Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes – Even on their last legs, they had a lot to offer. Scored important goals and did more than enough to justify another contract extension. But they had stretches of poor form and cannot be counted on to play for 90 minutes. More like ‘Impact making players off the bench’ to borrow a term from the NBA.

Michael Carrick – Regressed beyond imagination. So much so that he is a contender for the worst United player of the season. Devoid of his usual creativity and cultured passing, he was also guilty of giving up possession in dangerous positions. His nadir was the Champions League semi-final against Bayern. Is surprising that Berbatov’s form and possible departure from Old Trafford is constantly being discussed but nobody is speculating Carrick’s future.

Darren Fletcher the attacking force – Once again Darren Fletcher came to the rescue. Other than the duo of Giggs and Scholes, Fletcher was United’s only other goal scoring threat from midfield. Over the course of the season, he was United’s most consistent and effective attacking midfielder as well. And he managed to do so without significantly developing his attacking prowess. Quite simply, he was the only midfielder who was always available and always playing at an effective level.

Gibson can shoot but what else can he do?

Darren Gibson – Had a decent season with some fine long range strikes but showed nothing else. Didn’t raise any hope that he could be a regular in the United midfield of the future. Well, he could be if the likes of Anderson and Carrick continue to play at the same level. Otherwise, he could become the midfield version of Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer – sent on to nick a goal in the end.

This was a difficult season where the United midfield got little or no contribution from three vital members of their squad – Hargreaves, Anderson and Carrick. As a result, the midfield was significantly lacking in both flair and steel. And thanks to that a very average player like Darren Fletcher was their outstanding midfielder of the year – offensively as well as defensively. He didn’t have an exceptional year; barely improving from the standards he set last year.

The only other competitors for the best midfielder mantle were Giggs and Scholes and as a result the Irishman was a runaway winner – clearly indicative of how bad United’s midfield was last year – no offense meant but the tirelessly hardworking Fletcher is at best a homeless man’s Roy Keane.

United were fortunate that their wing players including the excellent Patrick Evra did well to shoulder a lot of the offensive load.

So, what is the outlook for next year? Does Fergie need any reinforcements?

The positive outlook is that Hargreaves will return and Anderson and Carrick have already hit their lowest ebbs; meaning they can only do better next year. Such a scenario will once again give a very healthy and flexible look to United’s midfield. Will give Ferguson the leeway to sparingly use the likes of Giggs and Scholes and thereby extend their United careers further. In such a situation, the transfer kitty can be spent on strikers and a goalkeeper.

But there is also the possibility that Hargreaves will never fully recover and therefore never be the player he once was and Carrick and Anderson will also struggle to recapture their best form. This will lead to a multitude of problems – United will lose ground in the title race (don’t expect Chelsea to keep faltering like last year); Fergie will be forced to make a distress purchase in the January transfer window (fewer players available, inflated prices and possibly the player will just be a short term fix) and the market value of Anderson and Carrick will nosedive after another poor season.

Fergie like always will trust Carrick and Anderson to bounce back. But a signing or two will be a good contingency measure. And sooner or later replacements have to be found for Scholes and Giggs. Signing them now will give the players time to ease into the United system. A signing could have been avoided but none of the talented youngsters looks to be closing in on a first team breakthrough.

I rarely disagree with Fergie’s decisions. But I will be hugely disappointed if there are no additions to the United midfield. I cannot bear the thought of another season with Darren Fletcher as our best midfielder!!!

Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben were deemed surplus to requirements at Real Madrid after the Spanish giants signed the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka and Xabi Alonso. They were sold to Inter Milan and Bayern Munich for 15 million and 25 million Euros respectively. The transfers fees were huge amounts but nothing compared to the kind of money that was splashed out last year.

And now after, Sneijder and Robben have both engineered huge turnarounds at their clubs, the money looks to be the best piece of business done in the whole of last season. Sneijder is the single biggest reason ( other than coach Jose Mourinho) that Inter are a force in the Champions league; now on the cusp of their first final since 1965 and securing a historic triumph over all-conquering Barcelona. His presence behind the strikers makes Mourinho’s 4-2-1-3 system work like a dream. He has injected the necessary attacking flair to transform a dour, defensive minded side into a dangerous counter-attacking unit.

Robben’s impact is just as dramatic. He came when Bayern were floundering and immediately kick-started a revival scoring twice in the opening game itself and has since been their biggest offensive weapon. His biggest contribution, however, is the three key Champions League goals he has scored in the last three ties – hitting match winners against Fiorentina, Man United and now against Lyon. The first two won the ties for Bayern and the third could result in the same.

Their sparkling performances have ensured that a lot of people around Europe are now eating their words for breakfast, lunch and dinner

Two sets of people deserve special mention

One set which gave them away and one set which didn’t grab them.

First the people at Real who let go of both of them.

Why in God’s name did Jorge Valdano (or Perez or whoever made that decision) sell Sneijder and hold on to the likes of Van der Vaart, Diarra and Gago. Selling the three would have generated much more cash for Real ( The club sold Sneijder for a pittance of 15 million Euros. The other three could have been sold for 10 million Euros each. Just do the math Mr Valdano) and Sneijder’s presence could have altered Real’s fortunes on the pitch as well. He had made an impressive debut for them and could have done a lot more had he not been injured for the rest of the season. His sale for 15 million Euros was the bargain of the season.

Robben’s sale was even more surprising. Atleast Real replaced Sneijder with Xabi Alonso. Robben was Real’s only world-class wide player. They never got a replacement for him and have suffered for lack of width all season long. Also unlike Sneijder, he had already proved his match winning credentials at Real. Unfortunately for the Spaniards, that reputation is now getting enhanced further at Bayern.

And now Real are trying to buy Ribery to replace the void created by Robben’s departure. Robben has been far more effective than the Frenchman at Bayern but Real could end up spending almost three times the money to replace the Dutchman with the Frenchman. That will surely be a coup for the Germans. Upgrade from Ribery to Robben ( atleast for them Robben has been the better player) and make a cool 50 million Euros in the process.

Massimo Moratti of Inter is also smiling away to glory. He gets Etoo and Sneijder plus a hefty 30 million in exchange for Ibrahimovic.

If Bayern and Inter make the Champions League final, they atleast need to send a thank you card to Real Madrid.

The other person who should twitch with regret is Sir Alex Ferguson.

Just consider this

Man United are soon going to lose the services of Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.
Robben and Sneijder would have been tailor-made replacements for the two veterans.

Man United were handing over Cristiano Ronaldo to Real.
They could have surely negotiated the rights to Robben and Sneijder as part of that deal.

While Rooney is a great goal poacher, he cannot create goals out of nothing like Cristiano Ronaldo could.
Robben could have provided that spark of creative brilliance like he has time and again for Bayern.

Sneijder is better than any of United’s mid fielders
Robben is better than any of United’s wide players
Their addition could have overcome the subtraction of Ronaldo and Tevez.

In his defence, Sir Alex Ferguson had argued that he didn’t use the Ronaldo windfall because he thought the market was overpriced and he couldn’t have gotten value for his money.
But is 25 million Euros for Robben and 15 million for Sneijder a bad deal, when the same manager had splashed out the following amounts for other players.

Michael Carrick for 18.6 million pounds. A move which had left everyone stunned.
Antonio Valencia 16 million pounds.
Nani and Anderson for something in the region of 20 -25 million Euros each.

Therefore, Ferguson could have gotten both the Dutch players without adding significantly to the outlay he made last year. He could have just sold Carrick to Tottenham ( they are always ready to buy back their old players) to finance Sneijder and used the money he spent on Valencia to buy Robben.

And with both Robben and Sneijder being just 25 years old at the time of the transfer, Fergie couldn’t have argued that he was investing in players past their prime.

United’s lack of firepower let them down at crucial times in both the Champions League and the Premier League. We can only guess what it could have been with both Robben and Sneijder on board.

The transfer market is a beautiful thing. Even the smartest people are sometimes made to look like fools.

In the case of Robben and Sneijder, Real Madrid and Man United will have to bear that ignominy.

Time to look at all the sup-plots from the 2009 Champions League final

It’s a little late to be doing this and it hurts as I remember the match but I needed to write this. So let’s quickly get this over with.

The White Jerseys

I am not implying that United lost because they played in white and not in their traditional red. But I can’t remember United winning a major final playing in white. There had been a lot of talk of United never having lost a major final but someone forgot to mention that they had actually dressed as the ‘Red’ Devils for all those finals they won. I didn’t have a good feeling as I saw them come out of the tunnel in white. I think it’s unfair to let only one side wear their home colours. If the jerseys clash then ask both to wear some other colour.

Memories of the 1994 Final

Barcelona were missing most of their defensive stalwarts and were expected to be vulnerable at the back. And then when United started in whirlwind fashion it looked as if a repeat of the 1994 final was on the cards. That was when another Barcelona side dubbed the ‘Dream Team’ had been played off the park 4-0 by AC Milan. Suddenly, the white jerseys looked like a good omen –Milan had also played in white ‘away’ jerseys on that night in 1994. Sadly, all such hopes vanished when Eto’o scored.

Memories of the 1999 Final

Even the commentators kept mentioning this. First there was an early goal like in 1999. Then United failed to mount a strong comeback finding no rhythm whatsoever. Van Der Saar, like Schmeichel in 1999, kept his side in the game preventing Barca from scoring again. And then it looked eerily similar when Xavi hit the post, just like Mehmet Scholl had done ten years ago. Then Messi scored to ensure that there were no more similarities.

A story of two tackles

United’s defensive lapse in the first goal has received less attention than it should have. First they allowed Iniesta to go on a long surging run with no one making an attempt to close him down or tackle him. The diminutive midfielder managed to thread the perfect pass to Eto’o who easily beat Vidic’s wild tackle and scored. A little while earlier, having been beaten by Ronaldo, Pique body checked the Portuguese to stop him from entering the Barca box unattended. United were supposedly the stronger defensive side but on this night Barca made the more important tackle.

Pique – from not good enough to too damn good

Unable to give him regular first team football, United let Gerard Pique go to Barcelona for almost nothing. The Catalan has since established himself as the defensive mainstay of Barca. And on this night he marshalled the makeshift defence superbly and single-handedly outshone the pair of Vidic and Ferdinand. Apart from the body check, he made a crucial block and was there to snuffle out every single one of United’s attacks. When United loan out players, they stipulate that the player cannot play against the Red Devils. If only they had made a similar agrrement then they let Pique go to Barcelona

What about Cristiano Ronaldo

How does this performance affect his plans to go to Madrid? He conclusively lost his ‘best player in the world’ battle with Messi. Going to Real Madrid gives him two guaranteed shots at renewing the rivalry every year. He might not get a chance to do that United in the near future. On the other hand, United have a good young nucleus which will return to many more finals and Ronaldo will always be the centre of their attack and of media attention. He is the crown prince of premiership football. He will have to challenge Messi for that title in Spain. And with Raul still around, he will not even be the numero uno star at Real Madrid. Alex Ferguson always learns from his defeats and will do everything possible to ensure that Ronaldo and United are not humiliated like this again. There is a very good case for him to stay back at Old Trafford

A depressing night for United

United have been embarrassed in Europe before, most recently by AC Milan in the second leg of the2007 semi-final. But this was worse. This was the biggest stage of them all – the final between two champion sides – two sides who take pride in playing attacking football of the highest quality. Other than losing the title of European Champions, United were also embarrassingly rendered as toothless and impotent as they failed to even make a match out of it.

And as Red Devils, who have been feed on a diet of beautiful one touch passing, you couldn’t even hate Barcelona for displaying something that you have long admired. And that made the experience even more frustrating – you couldn’t even vent your disappointment at your opponent. Hats off to Barcelona for having managed to do that

What were United missing?

Last year, I did an analysis of United’s European defeats and they showed some common traits, most notably an absence of mid-field toughness and lack of leadership on the pitch. The currently injured Owen Hargreaves had been signed to give steel to the mid-field and protect the back four. Anderson has been a suitable replacement on most occasions but on this night his inexperience clearly showed. As for their leader, Rio Ferdinand, he wasn’t even a patch on the likes of Roy Keane and Gary Neville.

And finally

The defeat takes nothing away from the fact that United had another fantastic European campaign with some memorable wins and have the side to be back in many more finals. Alex Ferguson has built a wonderful side which on most nights can compete with any side in Europe. Thanks to Fergie and his men for giving us another season full of great European nights.

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Boring to be at the same club for too long

After compiling a team of footballers who have spent their entire professional career at one club, we are now back with a side of exact opposites – players who can’t hang onto one club for too long and keep moving from club to club every now and then.

Unlike last time we will restrict this eleven to players whose major playing career happened post 1990. This way we will be able to identify the wanderlusts who managed to be on the move, long before the Bosman ruling gave them the freedom to move as and when they liked.

The qualification cut-off for this list is having atleast a 6 club career including loan spells. This list is far bigger than the list of one-club players and hence we will include a reserve for each position as well.

Here we go

Have contributed 8 players to this list

Forwards

Ronaldo (Cruzeiro, PSV Eindhoven, Barcelona, Internazionale, Real Madrid, Milan, Corinthians) – Fans of any club hate a player who switches loyalties to join a bitter derby rival. There is a select group of players who have done this. But having played for two sets of bitter rivals, Ronaldo belongs to an extremely exclusive list. Leaving Barcelona even before the season got over and ditching Inter immediately after recovering from a two year injury (Inter paid his wages and medical bills during this time) are some of the not-so-proud highlights of his career. I wouldn’t bet against him adding to his list of 7 clubs by the time he is done with his career.

Christian Vieri (Prato,Torino,Pisa, Ravenna, Venezia, Atalanta, Juventus, Atlético Madrid, Lazio, Internazionale, Milan,Monaco,Atalanta,Fiorentina, Atalanta) – Don’t know anyone who can beat the 15 club resume of Bobo Vieri. It’s interesting to see that his strike partner in this eleven, Ronaldo, was also his cohort at Inter Milan – a club which has one of the highest rates of player turn-over. He is currently without a club and was paid by the goal at his last stop at Atalanta. He isn’t done moving though. Reports abound of an alleged move to LA Galaxy.

Reserve

Nicolas Anelka (Paris Saint-Germain,Arsenal,Real Madrid,Paris Saint-Germain,Liverpool (loan),Manchester City,Fenerbahçe,Bolton Wanderers,Chelsea) – nicknamed ‘the Sulk’ for good reason, he can be relied upon to put in a transfer request the moment something goes against his wishes. Once the most sought after striker in Europe, he has also had to endure the lows of Istanbul and Bolton, many thanks to his grumpy temperament. But he is also a gifted goal-scorer and big clubs keep coming back for him.

Midfielders

Rivaldo (Santa Cruz,Mogi Mirim,Corinthians,Palmeiras,Deportivo La Coruña, Barcelona, Milan, Cruzeiro, Olympiacos, AEK Athens, Bunyodkor) – 11 clubs old, Rivaldo seems to be on a mission – to continue playing for as long as he can, for any club which is willing to take a chance with him. He is surely the only FIFA World Player of the Year who will play in the Uzbek League. Always keen to be the centre of attention and of the attack, he will have to continue to move to lesser clubs as his physical powers wane. Maybe, he will end up leading the Mohun Bagan attack in India at the age of 50.

Juan Veron (Estudiantes, Boca Juniors, Sampdoria, Parma, Lazio, Manchester United, Chelsea, Internazionale (loan), Estudiantes) – His is a story of two halves. In the first part he was outstanding; raising his stock and market value at every stop. His peak came when he lead Lazio to the Serie A title and then moved to Man United in what was then the most expensive transfer in British football. In the second part of his career, he was far less successful and his transfers involved much smaller amounts of money.

Paul Ince (West Ham United, Manchester United,Internazionale,Liverpool,Middlesbrough,Wolverhampton Wanderers, Swindon Town, Macclesfield) – He started at West Ham, a club he supported as a boy, and could have had a long stint with them but unfortunately the club got relegated. He then became a star at Man United, but in spite of being a crowd favourite, couldn’t last long enough to become an Old Trafford legend thanks to a stormy relationship with Alex Ferguson. Also one of the few players to play for both United and hated rivals Liverpool

Edgar Davids (Ajax, Milan, Juventus, FC Barcelona (loan), Internazionale, Hotspur, Ajax) – A product of the Ajax youth system, he was part of their brilliant sides in the mid 90’s. Sadly Ajax didn’t have the money to hold on to their talented young players and like many others before and after him, Davids moved to a bigger and richer European giant. As for his other moves, they were often caused by an outspoken temperament and once by a failed drugs test.

Diego Simeone (Vélez Sársfield, Pisa, Sevilla, Atlético Madrid, Internazionale, Lazio, Atlético Madrid, Racing Club) – His is a very surprising case. He is one of the most durable and consistent footballers of all time – A very low-key player who made a living out of doing the simple things well. He was by no means the kind of player clubs chase with big transfer fees or the disgruntled misfit who finds trouble everywhere. Therefore, an 8 club career is begging for inclusion.

Reserve

Denilson (São Paulo FC, Real Betis, Flamengo (loan), Bordeaux, Al-Nasr, FC Dallas, Palmeiras, Itumbiara) – His dazzling dribbling skills have left many an observer blinded. Many have been besotted enough to sign him for a fortune, like Real Betis did for a world record transfer fee in 1998. But soon they realize that he is more a circus artist and less a footballer, incapable of making meaningful contributions to the teams cause. That coupled with his high wages have often made him a liability. But someone keeps falling for his bag of tricks. If the rumoured move to Perth Glory goes through, he will become one of the few players to play in 5 continents.

Never mess with the manager

Defenders

Juan Pablo Sorin (Argentinos Juniors, Juventus, River Plate, Cruzeiro, Lazio, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Cruzeiro, Villarreal, Hamburger, Cruzeiro) – Sorin has played in Brazil, Argentina, Spain, Italy, France, and Germany. Had he played for a premiership side, and he has had opportunities to do so, then he would have had the unique distinction of having played in all the top leagues of the world. But he is just 33 and we can’t rule out another move from South America to Europe, the defender having done that 3 times previously. The maximum number of games that he’s played for a single club is 78 for River Plate.

Christian Panucci (Genoa, Milan, Real Madrid, Internazionale, Chelsea (loan), Monaco (loan), Roma) – After being on the move for most of his career, Panucci has kind of settled down at Roma, spending almost 8 years at the club. Or so it seemed, till a selection tiff with the manager led to Panucci announcing his decision to leave the club. While no buyer was found in the January 2009 transfer window, things could be a lot different once his contract expires in June 2009. An eighth club look well on the cards.

Jaap Stam (FC Zwolle, Cambuur Leeuwarden, Willem II, PSV Eindhoven, Manchester United, Lazio, Milan, Ajax) – When he moved to United, he became the most expensive defender in history. He soon became the defensive cornerstone of a side which won trophies galore. Sadly, thanks to an ill-advised and ill-timed tell-all autobiography, Stam incurred the wrath of Alex Ferguson and was sold to Lazio, cutting short what could have been a long rewarding career at Old Trafford. He never quite enjoyed the same kind of success after that, adding 3 more clubs to his resume before retiring in 2007.

Laurent Blanc (Montpellier, Napoli, Nîmes, Saint Etienne, Auxerre, Barcelona, Marseille, Internazionale, Manchester United) – Guess who was signed as a quick replacement when Ferguson let go of Stam in the middle of the season. The answer is Laurent Blanc and the fact that he was ready and available for a middle of the season move, kind of tells the story of the player’s career. After an 8 year stint at his first club, he never settled anywhere, playing for 8 clubs in 12 seasons. And mostly these moves were not caused by lack of success or a failure to adapt. He just found new suitors all the time and was always willing to accept their offers. Case in point being Guy Roux at Auxerre, Johan Cryuff at Barcelona and Rolland Courbis at Marseille.

Reserve

Dan Petrescu (Steaua Bucureşti, FC Olt Scorniceşti (loan), Foggia, Genoa, Sheffield Wednesday, Chelsea, Bradford City, Southampton, FC Naţional)- Had a successful 5 year stint with Chelsea and is still loved by the fans who remember him as one of the best players in the club’s history. Unfortunately for both parties, the player fell out with manager Gianluca Vialli and had no option but to leave the club. Other than that and his time with his first club Steaua, Petrescu’s career has been a litany of one season stints.

Goalkeeper

Fabien Barthez (Toulouse, Olympique Marseille, Monaco, Manchester United, Olympique Marseille, Nantes) – Generally goalkeepers are not given to a lot of movement, especially the good ones. A former ‘Worlds Best Goalkeeper of the Year’, Fabien Barthez is an exception to that rule. One of the many players on this list who was let go by Alex Ferguson. However, in his case it was purely because of a propensity for committing major blunders. His unpredictable behavior also contributed to a few moves.

Reserve

Kasey Keller ( Portland Timbers, Millwall,Leicester City, Rayo Vallecano, Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton (loan), Borussia Mönchengladbach, Fulham , Seattle Sounders FC )- His has been a case of being good but not very good. He has almost always failed to establish himself as the club’s long-term first- choice goalkeeper – Except when playing for a lowly one like Millwall which let him go when they got relegated. Often has been stuck as a back up and clubs have frequently not extended or renewed his contract.

United's contingent of life time employees

One club men – football players who spend their entire professional careers with one club are an extremely rare breed.

There are a number of reasons which cause players to change clubs. A lot of younger players start out at small clubs and move to bigger clubs which are more befitting of their talent. Similarly, many older players move to lesser clubs to prolong their careers as their physical prowess starts to ebb away. Players have ambitions to play in different leagues and at different clubs, often leading to movement. Sometimes a player just doesn’t get along with the manager or doesn’t fit well in the playing system.

The Bosman ruling of 1995 opened the flood gates to free movement of players. Clubs could no longer hold onto players against their will. They were literally free to go wherever and whenever they wanted. This led to a quantum jump in player activity. And therefore, a one club man became an even rarer species in the post-Bosman era.

For a player to spend his entire career at one club, a number of things must fall in place. He must start out at a club which is just right for his level of talent. His development must be commensurate with the expectations of his club and not more or less than that. As his physical powers wane, he must add new dimensions to his game to be able to hold his own at the club. He must continue to be in the good books of successive managers and always be part of the clubs long term and short term plans. And finally, the club should have enough success to match his personal ambitions.

If even of these things don’t happen, then a move is inevitable.

It happened when Arsenal legend Thierry Henry and Liverpool great Michael Owen moved to greener pastures because their clubs weren’t successful enough. It happened when one of Fergie’s fledglings – David Beckham fell out with his manager. It happened when life-long Barcelona supporter and loyalist, Pep Guardiola’s powers diminished and he wasn’t good enough for the Catalans. It happened when Leeds United were relegated and club legend Alan Smith had to mov

There are a lucky few who have managed to beat the odds and spend their entire playing careers at a single club. Today we will celebrate them by picking an all-star eleven made up entirely of such players. This list will be limited to players who played the game after the Bosman ruling; atleast the majority of their career happened after 1995. It will be a traditional 4-4-2 formation.

Here we go. A few of these players are still playing and might not be members of this exclusive club by the time they are done with their playing days. We are only considering their careers in the senior team for this exercise.

A lifetime at Real Madrid

Goalkeeper

Iker Casillas (Real Madrid) – Saint Iker is easily one of the best goalies of his generation. Destined for greatness at the most successful club in the world, he first made the playing eleven at 17. Has a buy-out clause of 128 million pounds and reportedly turned down an offer of 11 million pounds per season from Man City. Has won 2 Champions League and 4 Primera Liga titles with Real. He could have had serious competition from Gianluigi Buffon but the Italian was lured by a 52 million euro transfer fee- the biggest ever for a goalkeeper.

Defence

Paulo Maldini (AC Milan) – One of the all time great left backs has been part of the Milan family forever. His father Cesare also excelled at Milan and Paulo’s son Christian is already part of the club’s youth side. Debuted at 16 and is going strong at 40 – don’t think anyone has spent 24 years as a player at any club in the world. His haul of 5 Champions League and 7 Serie A titles is also unmatched. Will surely continue his association with Milan long after his playing days are over. He is surely the mascot of this ‘one club’ fraternity.

Jamie Carragher (Liverpool) – A Merseysider, he rose through the Liverpool youth ranks with Michael Owen. But while Owen was making the headlines at senior level and getting frustrated at Liverpool’s lack of success, Carragher was finding life difficult as an unsettled utility man. He finally established himself in defence and played a stellar role as Liverpool re-established themselves as European heavyweights. With his best form coinciding with club success, he was never a dissatisfied want-away like Owen. Winner of one Champions League title.

Carlos Puyol (Barcelona) – Barca is the pride of Catalonia and playing for the club is the highest honour for a Catalan. The challenge lies in being good enough to play for them regularly. Carlos Puyol has risen to the challenge with aplomb. He was part of a superbly talented group of young Spanish players at the club, but while most of the others fell by the wayside, he has continued to flourish as the leader at the back; at a club where chronic defensive problems result in a regular churn of defenders. Winner of 1 Champions League and 2 Primera Liga titles.

Gary Neville (Man United) – Joined United after leaving school and debuted in the senior side at 17. Part of the celebrated youth movement under Alex Ferguson. Much admired and respected at Old Trafford for his leadership and fighting spirit; qualities which have become increasingly relevant as his plying skills have diminished. That and a willingness to accept a reduced role, rather than trying for regular first team football elsewhere, have meant that he will wind up his playing career with United. Winner of 7 Premier League and 2 Champions League titles.

Midfield

Ryan Giggs (Man United) – United’s most capped player has been with them for 22 years now and looks good for many more. This has come thanks to his amazing transformation from a dashing left winger to a mature playmaker. While his past was all speed and breathtaking skill, his present is all guile and intelligence. Thanks to that he has continued to be a valuable squad player. Sir Alex is keen on holding on to him and uses him quite judiciously. A member of Fergie’s fledglings, he has been part of everything that United have won under the Scot – 10 Premier league titles, 3 FA Cups and 2 Champions League titles.

Paul Scholes (Man United) –Grew up as a supporter of Oldham Athletic but has been at United throughout his youth and senior career. His is another story of a player changing and flourishing in new roles as his career progressed. Once a striker, he has made a name for himself as a driving force in United’s midfield. Continues to be a vital member of United’s squad, especially on European nights when Fergie can still count on his big game temperament. He is another player whose career will be extended thanks to Fergie’s intelligent use of him. Winner of 8 Premier League and 2 Champions League titles.

Xavi Hernandez (Barcelona) – Another fiercely proud Catalan who joined the club’s youth side in 1991 at age 11 and is already contracted to play for them till 2014. His rise as the home-grown lynchpin of Barca’s midfield is especially creditable considering the club has largely relied on foreign talent in the attacking department. Largely under-rated thanks to the presence of a galaxy of stars at the Nou Camp, he announced himself to the world at Euro 2008 where he was voted best player. Barca have always known his worth and have tied him down for good with a massive contract. Winner of 4 Primera Liga and 1 Champions League title.

Steven Gerrard (Liverpool) – He almost followed Michael Owen out of Liverpool after a frustrating Trophy less season in 2003-04. But luckily for him, for new manager Rafa Benitez and for Liverpool Football Club, he decided to stay. Istanbul happened in 2005 and in his own words; Steven Gerrard couldn’t leave the club after a night like that. The player has since become a legend at the Kop and few players can dream of achieving the status he enjoys at the club. A long overdue league title is also within touching distance and once Liverpool win that, Steven Gerrard can have the key to the entire red half of Merseyside. Winner of 1 Champions League title.

Forwards

Raul Gonzalez (Real Madrid) – A cult hero at the club, who can continue to play for Real Madrid for as long as he desires. Holds almost all the goal scoring records for the club and continues to be their leading striker at age 31 with 24 goals in the 2008-09 campaign. Has been their golden boy from the time he became their youngest debutant at age 17. The ironic part is that he started his youth career at bitter rivals Atletico and had to move to Real because the youth system was closed down by President Jesus Gil. If not for Mr Gil’s short-sightedness, Raul Gonzalez would have made this list as an Atletico player. Winner of 6 Primera Liga and 3 Champions League titles.

Francesco Totti (Roma) – A symbol of the club who was probably born to play for Roma. He was born in Rome and he and his family have been lifelong Roma supporters. His mother refused a lucrative contract from AC Milan when he was a teenager and Totti first played for the Roma senior side at 16 and became captain at 20. His trophy collection is the most meagre of all the players on this list and he could have easily moved to bigger clubs to win more titles but the option of leaving Roma is one that Totti has never considered. Will probably end up as the greatest Roma player of all time. Winner of 1 Serie A title.

We will be back shortly with a team of polar opposites – players who can’t seem to stay at one place for too long.

This year's final is bound to have a mouth watering match-up

The Draw for the Champions League Semis; Chelsea- Barcelona and Man United – Arsenal, while mouth-watering in itself, sets up the possibility of a very interesting finals match-up. Each of the four possibilities is extremely fascinating; both in terms of the action on and off the field, the history between the two sides and the other associated story lines.

The football fans are really spoilt for choice here.

So let’s look at each of the 4 potential show downs and identify the reasons why we would want to see a final featuring these two sides.

Chelsea – Man United – These two sides gave us 120 minutes of attacking football in last year’s final – a rarity in ECL finals and therefore, this match-up would be the first choice for those who are bored of the safety first defensive approaches which are the staple of such occasions. This would also pit two of the greatest managers of the last 20 years, Guus Hiddink and Alex Ferguson, and that would be a real battle of wits. And finally, there is the revenge and redemption angle as well, a chance for John Terry to exorcise his worst nightmare. Man United’s successes over Chelsea in the last two Premier league races, in the last ECL final and in their last encounter has resulted in the sacking of Mourinho, Avram Grant and Phil Scolari respectively. Another triumph could bust all the euphoria over Hiddink and herald the arrival of yet another new manager at Stamford Bridge.

The battle Royale

Man United –Barcelona – This final would determine a lot of things. The battle between two of the most dominant and attack-minded teams in Europe would settle the debate, about who are the real Kings of the continent. As the leaders of their respective leagues, this clash will also be billed as the showdown between the Primera Liga and the Premier League. The two best players in world football, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo would come together for a long –awaited duel which will give one set of supporters the bragging rights as the fans of the best player in football. In addition, hostilities will be resumed between United and their old foe, Thierry Henry.

This final could prove one man right

Barcelona – Arsenal – As the rematch of another final, the 2006 one, this match will also re-kindle passions of revenge and deliverance. A much greater twist will be added by the presence of Thierry Henry. Losing the 2006 final forced Henry to leave Arsenal in pursuit of trophies. A win would justify his decision, although it will be ironic to see one of the greatest Gunners ever, denying the club, their long awaited place in the annals of the European greats. A loss would make the Frenchman a massive loser – the only person to end up on the losing side in both Barcelona – Arsenal finals. An Arsenal win will be doubly sweet for Arsene Wenger as the triumph will vindicate his decision to let Henry leave rather than compromise on his youth policy. It will shut up his critics once and for all.

Arsenal – Chelsea – Thanks to their lack of European pedigree, these two clubs are the second class citizens of the Premiership Big 4. After this final, there will be only one set of supporters suffering from an inferiority complex. It will also be a contest of two contrasting philosophies – the most frugal big name club in Europe with an unwavering belief in the power of youth and the biggest spenders in the history of the game with a penchant to throw obscene money at established superstars. Liverpool and United have foiled Abramovich’s European ambitions in the past and Arsenal could become the third English club to do so, also becoming the third Premiership side to win the title, the Russian craves the most, since the time he heralded the Russian revolution at Chelsea. It could well be the final straw that breaks the camel’s back.

Personally, I want to see United play Barcelona. You tell us which final match-up you want to watch.

As a United fan, one of my favourite mental exercises is speculating, who the next United manager will be. I don’t want Fergie to step down or anything. On the contrary I have all the respect and admiration in the world for him – for all that he has done for the Club. It’s just that he is already 67 and someday soon he will have to go.

The speculation also stems from the reality that I have never seen a change of guard at Old Trafford in my football-watching life. United sides have always been such an embodiment of Sir Alex’s own personality and without him the club would probably be completely different from the one I dearly love. Therefore, the fact that something which I have never witnessed in my life is about happen and that the change will have far-reaching implications forces me to think about it very frequently.

How will life be without him

I and many others, I am sure, have often assumed that the next guy will be someone who has been associated with United as well as Fergie in the past. How can an outsider ever understand what it means and takes to be a Red Devil? After all, United are one of those rare big clubs which have maintained their old world spirit and identity in spite of all the corporatization of sport. And why not attempt some kind of continuity by bringing in someone who’s well indoctrinated in the ‘Ferguson way’

I want a Red Devil to take over

That the person should also have excellent managerial credentials is quite obviously an unconditional pre-requisite

There has been no shortage of suitable candidates – at least ones who have seemed suitable.

The list and the conjecturing started with ‘Captain Marvel’ – Bryan Robson – one of United’s greatest players as well as a legendary captain. He made a great start to his managerial life with Middlesbrough and I remember, once, how in spite of Boro beating United 3-2 in , I hadn’t felt bad – I had thought that the future United manager was coming along well. Sadly, save for some great Cup runs with Boro and later a relegation survival with West Brom, Robson has been a failure as a manager. And he’s had enough opportunities at various clubs to eliminate any elements of bad-luck. He clearly isn’t up to it.

The next really big hope was Roy Keane – another commanding mid-field general in the mould of Robson. His successes with Sunderland and his clear-talking and honest ways seemed like a fairy-tale. Just that he lacked the eye for talent and tactical nous so important for a manager. He has exited Sunderland with his head held high but his managerial pedigree in tatters. I expect him to give it another shot. But it will take a lot of success over a considerable period of time to exorcise the ghosts of his first stint and be considered again.

Another United legend and former captain in the fray is Steve Bruce. He’s had decent success with various clubs. But the problem is that he’s had too many clubs – he’s on his sixth one in ten years of managerial life – the exact antithesis of Fergie and United. Also in spite of such a long career he is still stuck with the smaller clubs – hasn’t even moved up a notch to the second rung of the premiership. It is more likely that he will end up becoming the next Harry Redknapp and not the next Fergie.

A candidate with a less glorified United connection but better managerial record is Celtic’s Gordan Strachan. A Red Devil from 1984-89, he has managed at a top British club for more than three years now. And remember, Sir Alex also came from a successful Scottish club. But then again, times are different now. How big is Scotland’s biggest club in today’s world – possibly smaller than even the likes of Man City and Tottenham. Also his association with Fergie was long ago and I doubt if he’s a true United disciple. And he is too much of a strict disciplinarian and there are doubts about his ability to handle big name players. Will rule him out as well.

Next in consideration is Mark Hughes – another crowd favourite at Old Trafford. As a manager he got the Welsh national side to overachieve and then had a solid stint with Blackburn. He’s bought smartly in the transfer market and has handled some massive egos pretty well. His appointment as Man City boss was another sign of his growing reputation. But the Man City job with a massive war-chest to boost could be the reason why he will probably never end up as United manager. He will either use the funds well and go onto achieve greater glory with City – in which case there will be no reason to leave for United if the opportunity came , or he will be a failure – in which case his stock as manager will fall and he won’t be considered at Old Trafford. That he manages United’s bitter rivals will be just a secondary point. Mark Hughes had all the right credentials and before his appointment as City manager he was probably way out in front in this race. Sadly he has discontinued running it.

Hughes’ successor in the Blackburn job, Paul Ince is another contender. He’s had a miserable stint in the premiership after success in the lower leagues. He still has an outside chance if he can revive Blackburn and have solid run for 4-5 years. Anything else and his chances are zilch.

There is another guy with a United connections who had a shot once upon a time but he is completely out of it now.

Steve McLaren never played for United but was an assistant to Sir Alex in the treble winning side of 1999. But we all know what happened when he became manager of England and now his stock has fallen so low that he coaches a nondescript Dutch side. I would kill myself if he ever became United manager.

That sadly is the end of the list. Amongst the currently active lot, I would rate Gary Neville as the best manager material. But he’s still playing. And it will take a long time for him to establish his managerial credentials. I don’t think Sir Alex can wait that long.

That leaves us with the hard truth that a Red Devil will not be replacing Sir Alex Ferguson whenever he decides to retire.

So much for continuity and finding someone who knows the ways of United.

By the way I just remembered about Joe Paterno. He’s 82 years old and has been coaching the football team at Penn State University for the last 42 years – and quite successfully too – he won the conference championships this year. Fergie’s just 67, right. So he could be in the job for another 15 years. Now, that will give me enough time to draw up another list of managerial hopefuls from the Red Devils community.

At United we never give up.

Manchester United are back in the semi-finals of the Champions league with their commanding win over Roma and this has set up a mouth watering clash between United and Barcelona – two of the finest attacking sides in Europe. United have been impressive in the competition so far, topping the group phase with ease and dispatching Lyon without too much of fuss in the second round. Their performance in the Stadio Olimpico; the site of Roma’s wins over United last year and Real Madrid this year was indicative of a side at the peak of its prowess and in control of its destiny. But will we be seeing United lift the title in Moscow? For all their exploits so far, their historical big-game record is uninspiring. This competition has seen umpteen seasons of early brilliance and heart-breaking collapses from the Red Devils. They have been extremely consistent in dominating the early rounds and then faltering a round or two before the finals.

Doing a semi-final prediction based on the squad strengths and current form of United and Barcelona will only make partial sense. The Red Devils need to be compared to themselves. Does this side have that extra bit to be different from the sides which suffered from stage fright in the later knock-out rounds? Is it as well equipped- both physically and mentally to match the 1998-99 team which went all the way? Has there been a common pattern to these disappointments and is there something Alex Ferguson needs to especially watch out for? The answers to all these questions lie in United’s Champions League past.

Season – 1996-97

Exit – Semi-final to Borussia Dortmund
Great Expectations – A 4-0 victory over Porto in the quarters had raised expectations for the United faithful. Borussia were not expected to be too much of a challenge.
Heartbreak – United lost both legs to Borussia Dortmund by the identical margin of 0-1. They had a million opportunities to score in the return leg at Old Trafford but the pressure got to them and they failed miserably.

Key Factoids

• Man United had been poor away from home losing to both Juventus and Fenerbahce in the group stages. They continued the trend by losing tamely in the first leg. As a result they were always playing catch up.
• To add to the pressure, they conceded an early home goal and then for all their attacking play, crumbled under the pressure.
  United needed leadership in Old Trafford and Eric Cantona failed to inspire them. He wasn’t equipped to do it in the first place. A fact well known to his national coach Aime Jacquet who dropped him from the French side.

Season – 1999-2000

Exit – Quarter- final to Real Madrid
Great Expectations – United had topped both their group stages, whereas Real just about managed to finish group runner-up on goal difference. The Spaniards were considered to be there for the taking based on their poor form.
Heartbreak – After a goalless draw in the Bernabeau, United needed to win at Old Trafford. They conceded an early goal and faced with the target of scoring two goals; went on an all-out attack. The defense was left exposed and Real took them to the cleaners.

Key Factoids

• Another United side who were bad travellers having lost away games to the likes of Fiorentina and Marseille. A goal in Madrid could have gone a long way in building confidence for the return leg. In spite of the draw in the first leg, the pressure to score was on United.
• The opening goal in Old Trafford was an own-goal – a killer blow to the psyche of the Red Devils.

Season – 2001-02

Exit – Semi – final to Bayer Leverkusen
Great Expectations – This was supposed to be a cakewalk. United had topped both their group stages. They had won both the home and away legs against quarter-final opponents, Deportivo La Coruna. Bayer made it into the quarters with a last day victory. Bayer were a bunch of unknown players.
Heartbreak – Both legs were drawn and Bayer progressed on the away goals rule. United led in both legs but couldn’t close out for a win.

Key Factoids

• For once, United started with a home tie and couldn’t make it count. They took the lead twice in the first tie at home and couldn’t protect it. A team which concedes twice in a home opener is generally not expected to progress.
• The Bayer duo of Ballack and Basturk dominated the midfield; even in the first tie at Old Trafford. United were missing David Beckham. A wicked tackle by Aldo Duscher long after the United- Depor tie was settled kept Becks out. Sadly, United lacked a suitable replacement for him.

Season – 2002-03

Exit – Quarter- final to Real Madrid
Great Expectations – Another season when United topped both group stages and looked good for more. For once they had managed an impressive away win as well – over Juve in Turin.
Heartbreak – The first leg was in Madrid and the Galacticos kicked into top gear. Real won 3-1 and the tie was as good as over. United went all out in the return leg and left the barn door open for Ronaldo to score a hat trick. United won 4-3 but wasn’t quite enough

Key Factoids

• United were horrible in the first away leg. The Madrid players were running riot in the United half and the Red Devils could have lost by many more.
• At Old Trafford, Alex Ferguson kept Beckham on the bench till late in the game and the score at 2-3 in Real’s favour. Beckham came on and scored twice. A tactical mistake on the manager’s part??

Season – 2006-07

Exit – Semi- final to AC Milan
Great Expectations – United vanquished AS Roma 7-1 in the quarter-final return leg in an attacking master class. Their offense was expected to steam-roll over Milan’s ageing defense.
Heartbreak – United won the first leg 3-2 and in spite of the two away goals, were quite upbeat about their chances. They were in for a rude shock. Milan blew them away in the San Siro. The final score line, Milan 3 United 0.

Key Factoids

• AC Milan won the crucial midfield battle behind the classy Seedorf and the fiery Gattuso. While Kaka roamed free to torment the United defense, Gattuso marked Cristiano Ronaldo out of the game.
• The 7-1 score sheltered the 2-1 defeat United suffered in the first leg in Rome. This team was also a poor traveller and completely unravelled in the cauldron of the San Siro.
• United were thin on defensive resources and forced to play a half –fit Nemanja Vidic. The ramshackle defense conceded a total of 5 goals.

We have gathered enough pointers to explain Manchester United’s poor run in big European games. We will now juxtapose the current side and the title-winning side of 1998-99 under the microscope of these observations. This exercise will shed light on whether the class of 2007-08 can be as successful in breaking the pattern of big match chokers.

Away form

Manchester United have mostly been poor in away games; even in the early stages. The 1998-99 side was different as they never lost an away game. They drew with Bayern Munich, FC Barcelona and Inter Milan and beat Juventus on their travels. The current side is just as good. They have an away victory and a draw against Roma and a draw against Lyon.

Depth of the Side

United have been frequently undone by lack of squad depth. In the 1998-99 final, United had the luxury of sending on Teddy Sheringham and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as super substitutes. The current side is even better. Alex Ferguson has most of his spots well-covered. Unlike last year, he will not have to call upon an injured Vidic.

Midfield Energy

Roy Keane was at the peak of his prowess in 1998-99 and the driving force behind United’s run to the final. So much so, that he was the most sought after midfielder in Europe after that season. He was there to thwart the Edgar Davids and the Stefan Effenbergs of the world. United have never had another one like him. Well now they do. Fergie’s successful pursuit of Owen Hargreaves finally provides United an antidote to the likes of Gattuso and Makalele. In Anderson, they even have a double whammy.

Conceding goals at home

United know how to score for sure. But often concede one too many, especially at home. Except for Borussia Dortmund, they conceded at least 2 home goals in each of the aforementioned defeats. The 1998-99 side had a clean sheet against Inter in the quarters and let in one against Juve in the semis. The current United side has managed to keep clean sheets against Roma and Lyon at home. Moreover, they have just conceded a total of 7 goals in 17 premiership home games.

Leadership and Courage

When the going gets tough in Europe, United fold and roll over. It all comes down to lack of leadership and courage. The one glorious exception happened on an April night at the Della Alpi in 1999. Down by 2 goals within ten minutes of the start, United refused to give up. Roy Keane rallied his troops and led them to a great victory. Does the current side have similar heart and courage? The return of Gary Neville will provide a lot of strong-willed leadership. Winning records against Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool speaks of United’s big match intensity. They showed tremendous grit and character in their comeback victory over Arsenal at Old Trafford. Looks like they are totally up for it.

Alex Ferguson has endured numerous European setbacks over the years. His sides have often fallen short of what it takes for Champions League success. But he has learnt from his mistakes. He has identified his team’s shortcomings and worked diligently to overcome them. Bit by bit, he has managed to put together a side whose ability and character can match their manager’s ambitions. The Manchester United side of 2007-08 is ready for every Champions League challenge.