Do the FIFA POTY Nominees hint at a new era?

The national team captains, coaches, fans and selected journalists casted their votes and they have been tallied. After a decade of dominance by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo with each claiming five individual honors for the world’s best football player, we are witnessing some new trends across most of the categories. Indeed, I cannot deny the Messi and Ronaldo are among the unique breed of footballers that this world will ever know but it was becoming a little too boring. Here are top three new features of the “new age” I am most excited about.

Timely reminder that football ingenuity can’t be reduced to a simple goal statistic

Mohamed Salah of Egypt celebrates with teammate Marwan Mohsen after scoring his team's first goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group A match between Saudia Arabia and Egypt at Volgograd Arena on June 25, 2018 in Volgograd, Russia.

(June 24, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

One of the reasons why Ronaldo and Messi had not left the podium since 2008 is that they are goal scoring machines and they are surrounded by other great players in the biggest of clubs which almost always win trophies. For almost all the years these two won the FIFA Ballon d’Or Award now known as FIFA Best Award, it was given to the one whose club had claimed the UEFA Champions League trophy or scored the most goals.The likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Andres Iniesta, Antoine Griezmann, Xavi, Manuel Neuer and Franck Ribery were well in their right victims of the Ronaldo-Messi era. Great football talents who happen to have been born at the wrong time as many people would say.

The good news for the first time, we see a player like Luka Modric making the top three list, a complete midfielder who is hardly on the scoresheet but almost inspired his country Croatia, to their first ever FIFA World Cup triumph, losing to France in the 2018 final in Russia. The 32-year-old  did win the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid in May, bagged the Golden Ball for the best player at the 2018 World Cup finals but quite remarkably and unusually pipped Ronaldo to the 2018 UEFA Men’s Player of the Year Award. A sign that the Ronaldo and Messi era could very soon be behind us.

Egyptian king, Mohamed Salah deservedly made it to this year’s top three with Ronaldo completing that list and Messi missing out. Salah broke the scoring records in England, banging in 32 goals in a 38 match season and helped Liverpool reach the Champions League final. He also won all the individual awards in England but making the list without winning any major team trophy emphasises this change I am trying so hard to describe.

Unfamiliar but familiar faces in goal

Kasper Schmeichel of Denmark reacts during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between 1st Group D and 2nd Group C at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on July 1, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia.

(June 30, 2018 - Source: Francois Nel/Getty Images Europe)

If I were to ask for the names of the three top goalkeepers in the world, most certainly, the likes of Gianluigi Buffon, Manuel Neuer and David De Gea would frequent on most people’s list. They are really goalkeepers of some of the elite and acclaimed football clubs in the world. Quite honestly, they are great and probably deserve the naming. But this year, the voters decided on some talented individuals between the sticks who have not received the deserved praise over the years. Kasper Schmeichel of Leicester City in the Premier League and Denmark, Hugo Lloris who captained France to the 2018 World Cup title and Thibaut Courtois, the best goalkeeper in Russia 2018 make up the three men shortlist. Does this signal an element of enhanced objectivity in choosing players for these awards, without necessarily looking at the crest of their clubs or their national colors?

We just love that Senegalese fans are nominated for one of the awards

You cannot really blame us for singling out exceptional contributors to the game from the beloved continent of Africa. That’s what FirstTouch Africa aims to bring the global stage anyway, telling the untold stories of invaluable significance, steering communities forward.

Senegal fans enjoy the pre match atmosphere prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group H match between Japan and Senegal at Ekaterinburg Arena on June 24, 2018 in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

(June 23, 2018 - Source: Clive Rose/Getty Images Europe)

The Lions of Teranga football fans are part of the nominees for the FIFA Fan Award after their resounding efforts to keep Russia clean at the world cup finals. These guys literally picked up all litter after each and every game they cheered their heroes on, even after the bitterest of games that saw Senegal exit the tournament in the group stages because they had more yellow cards than the second placed Japan in Group H. Even the Japanese fans also headlined Russia for the tidy civility acts and are nominated together with Senegal as a unit.

Below, is a full list for all the nominees.The winners will be announced on 24 September at Royal Festival Hall in London.

 

 

 

 

Men's player

Cristiano Ronaldo - Juventus & Portugal

Luka Modric - Real Madrid & Croatia

Mohamed Salah - Liverpool & Egypt

Women's player

Ada Hegerberg - Lyon & Norway

Dzsenifer Marozsan - Lyon & Germany

Marta - Orlando Pride & Brazil

Men's coach

Zlatko Dalic - Croatia

Didier Deschamps - France

Zinedine Zidane - former Real Madrid

Women's coach

Reynald Pedros - Lyon

Asako Takakura - Japan

Sarina Wiegman - Netherlands

Goalkeeper

Thibaut Courtois - Real Madrid & Belgium

Hugo Lloris - Tottenham & France

Kasper Schmeichel - Leicester & Denmark

Puskas Award

Gareth Bale (Real Madrid) v Liverpool

Denis Cheryshev (Russia) v Croatia

Lazaros Christodoulopoulos (AEK) v Olympiacos

Giorgian De Arrascaeta (Cruzeiro) -v America MG

Riley McGree (Newcastle Jets) v Melbourne City

Lionel Messi (Argentina) v Nigeria

Benjamin Pavard (France) v Argentina

Ricardo Quaresma (Portugal) v Iran

Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid ) v Juventus

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) v Everton

Fan Award

Sebastian Carrera (Deportes Puerto Montt, Chile)

Peru fans

Japan and Senegal fans

Liverpool making the right noises – Thanks to the Africans

The English Premier League is back with a bang, and some teams have already started looking promising. Manchester City shuttered Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium in Matchday 1 and thrashed Huddersfield in a 6-1 win at home the following week. These results are not surprising at all considering how the Cityzens ended their season last year with a record-breaking 100 points after 38 games. Liverpool however went all out in the transfer market to beef up their squad after their bitter loss at the hands of Real Madrid in UEFA Champions League final a couple of months ago. Since then, there has been talk about them being ready to mount a title challenge in the league this year. Rightly so because they have already picked up wins in the first two matches they played against West Ham United and Crystal Palace. One thing that has been quite interesting though is their core of players who are of African heritage. Let’s look at what these players bring to the table.

Naby Keita of Liverpool is closed down by Andros Townsend of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool FC at Selhurst Park on August 20, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 19, 2018 - Source: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Europe)

Naby Keïta is the latest addition to the Merseyside team after he joined the club in a $67.6 million deal from RB Leipzig. We wrote earlier, about how the 23-year-old midfielder from Guinea was the missing piece of the spine of the Liverpool after they sold Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona in January 2017. We are starting to see the signs of a midfield general that dictates play when in possession and is not afraid to instigate the press whenever the team loses the ball. Keïta looks ready to emulate Steven Gerrard’s role in the team where the Englishman was the pinnacle of all the attacks in the team. Keita looks to have the engine to bomb up and down the pitch which has become one of the most significant assets of modern midfield players. Think of the likes of N’golo Kante.

Mo Salah. Not much needs to be said about him other than that he looks as sharp as ever. The Egyptian forward will bring the goals to Liverpool. That is certain after watching him bossing the best of defenders last season and scoring a record 31 goals in his first season in Liverpool. Although he could have a tough time this round now that the players know him and how he plays, still he poses a threat to any team with his blistering pace. Liverpool will be looking to pick another 3 points this weekend against Brighton, a match that will be aired at 12.30pm, Washington DC time, and you can bet on the African superstar to score.

Next up, there is the new Number 10, Sadio Mane from Senegal. The forward did not have the greatest time at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia tournament because his team was knocked out in the group stages but only just. He has since returned to the club that pays his bills, and he has been showing the hunger that Jurgen Klopp wants to see in all his players. His persistence can be seen in Liverpool’s most recent game, against Palace when he burst forward and kept going especially after some contact from Van Aanholt. He set his mind on the goal, and he saw to it when he rounded past the Palace keeper to score Liverpool’s second of the night. Mane’s creativity will be of great importance throughout the season and it is an added bonus for the club that he will not be leaving for the AFCON tournament in January like before because the tournament has been moved to September 2019. (Be sure to subscribe to our Newsletter where we keep you up to date with the build up to this tournament)

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool is fouled by Aaron Wan-Bissaka of Crystal Palace leading to a red card during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool FC at Selhurst Park on August 20, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 19, 2018 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

In essence, these three players will be crucial to Liverpool’s fortunes if they remain fit because they have the quality and are delivering at the highest level. They are setting the bar high for other African players who wish to play in the best soccer leagues in the world. Do not be surprised if Liverpool wins it this year because their core of players is hungry and is willing to work tirelessly for that silverware that has eluded them for over two decades now.

Pep’s oiled City machine is not too far from being Europe’s best

Change is everywhere. A Ronaldo-less Real Madrid whose reins Zidane left for Lopetegui, a star-studded Barcelona figuring out their style and philosophy, a Juventus adjusting to life with Ronaldo but without Gigi Buffon, laughable Manchester United, Bayern Munich also adapting to the new manager in Niko Kovac and many more countless examples. Who then is the new king of football or rather who is lurking to be? Here are three fast reasons detailing why I think Manchester City is going to give many teams a run for their money and outcompete the best.

1. Pep Guardiola

Manchester City Manager Josep Guardiola on stage during the Manchester City Trophy Parade in Manchester city centre on May 14, 2018 in Manchester, England.

(May 13, 2018 - Source: Lynne Cameron/Getty Images Europe)

It’s safe to say that the Spaniard has stamped his authority at the Etihad heading into the third year at the club. His players understand him more and will be more eager now to listen to his ideas after witnessing just how much greatness he can cook up, racking up a record 100 Premier League points in the 2017/18 title-winning season. Pep has won it all with Barcelona and Spain but still remains hungry for any kind of trophy, which happens to be the same hunger and energy he transfers to his players, approaching every match as a final and staying focused without growing complacent. An ideal recipe for repeated success. More than his personal intelligent football mind and passion, Pep has just the right staff to complement him. In particular, his assistant, Mikel Arteta is reported to be Guardiola’s secret weapon. When the going gets tough, Pep is never shy to take a back seat and allow Mikel to express himself for the benefit of the team. Just recently, Mikel Arteta’s plan for Mendy and Sterling is reported to have led to City’s second goal against Arsenal in their 2-0 win in the opening match of the campaign.

In a nutshell, I think the rapport and understanding that he has with his players is second to none. It’s the kind that makes a team Europe’s best when combined with quality players who have a fantastic attitude and experience.

“Look at Benjamin Mendy for example, in these first two matches of the season, he has been adopting a hybrid left-back, wingback/ central midfielder position, something thrilling at the sound of it. Wait until you watch him play.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

2. Squad depth and experience

Manchester City pose for a team photo prior to the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Second Leg match between Manchester City and Liverpool at Etihad Stadium on April 10, 2018 in Manchester, England.

(April 9, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

Manchester City’s bench over the weekend in matchday 2 of the Premier League comprised of 50 million fullback Kyle Walker, 60 million winger in Riyad Mahrez, the 2017/18 PFA Young Player of The Year in Leroy Sane, the club’s second top goal scorer in the previous campaign in Raheem Sterling, former Barcelona goalkeeper, Claudio Bravo and 2014 FIFA World Cup finalist Nicolas Otamendi. It’s not like they were resting their main players, the first eleven of that day played and brushed aside Huddersfield, 6-1 as if it were that easy, they just make it look easy. That City team that consisted of two world cup winners, finalists, semi and quarter-finalists. Even of the just ended 2018 FIFA World Cup. They have enough winners to win anything in that squad who have the years, talent and passion on their ‘rap sheet.’ The agonizing loss to Liverpool in last year’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final loss to Liverpool would have taught them plenty and will be undoubtedly gunning for the UEFA gold medal this campaign. Man to man, they can match any European team right now, just pick and choose any of their players at random.

3. An ever-evolving playing style and identity

Pep’s arrival at City did not only commence the reformation of the Manchester club but football as a whole in England. Guardiola made the attractive way of playing football great again after Chelsea and Leicester had won the EPL title employing quite defensive tactics. Now, everyone wants to play. Chelsea parted ways with Antonio Conte for that reason and acquired Sarri, Liverpool continues to enjoy Klopp’s talents, Everton sacked Sam Allardyce for the same boring football, Arsenal is learning to do the same with Unai Emery and Mourinho’s Manchester United seem to be ailing as a result of refusing to dance to the new song. Man City’s style is not only fun to watch but delivers results by reason of it being a system where he can plug and play any of the players who are happy to delivers exactly as per the prescribed requirements. When many teams are struggling to maintain a certain identity and character as a team, we see Pep do it and dynamically so. Look at Benjamin Mendy for example, in these first two matches of the season, he has been adopting a hybrid left-back, wingback/ central midfielder position, something thrilling at the sound of it. Wait until you watch him play. Many thought the champions will falter without the injured DeBruyne but Bernardo Silva is stepping up also bringing in a new dimension to the squad. City are stable and continuously innovating. They will be hard to stop, quite hard to deny anything.

“I wouldn’t say we waited, but it was clear when we saw the starting XI, the teamsheet, they would change their formation from what they’ve usually done in the past.”

— David Wagner, Huddersfield Manager

Leroy Sane of Manchester City celebrates the third goal with Kyle Walker during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester City at Emirates Stadium on March 1, 2018 in London, England.

(Feb. 28, 2018 - Source: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images Europe)

How far do you think they will go this season? Share with us in the comment box below.

Relive the Weekend’s Best Moments: Mane Marches On

Is Sadio Mane’s new number 10 shirt working the magic?

Liverpool forward, Sadio Mane seems to be enjoying the new shirt number he is wearing this season. The number that is synonymous to greatness in modern football, offered to only those with the guts to walk the talk.

He continued his wonderful 2018/19 form, showing incredible physicality to stay on his feet after a challenge by Van Aanholt in the box, rounding off the goalkeeper to score the Reds’ second in their 2-0 win away at Crystal Palace. He is currently sitting pretty on the scoring charts, top with three goals after two matches. The same number as Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero.

Sadio Mane of Liverpool celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool FC at Selhurst Park on August 20, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 19, 2018 - Source: Julian Finney/Getty Images Europe)

Are we in for a real African treat with Mohamed Salah, Aubameyang and Mahrez also expected to make a mark? I guess we will soon find out.

Relive the Weekend’s Best Moments: Iwobi’s shaku-shaku

Iwobi shows off some slick trendy dance moves after scoring against Chelsea

Unai Emery’s start to life at the Emirates has not been the best. The Spaniard is still waiting for his first Premier League win with Arsenal, post-Wenger era. One player who has shown signs of more life and perhaps hinting at unleashing the potential which many believe he has is Alex Iwobi. Just a few weeks after signing a contract extension at the Emirates, Iwobi took it to the pitch and backed up his credentials on the pitch. After being awarded his first start under Emery against Chelsea, Iwobi delivered an encouraging performance that included rapid dribbling on the left wing, menacing runs and all crowned by a super right-footed finish in the box after a string of about nineteen passes by the Gunners.

My highlight was the trending Naija shaku-shaku dance moves he showed off after the goal that lighted up his Nigerian brothers and sisters, at home and abroad. Even though the dance was short-lived with counter-celebrations by his teammates, Nigeria got enough to feel proud.

Arsenal players celebrate after Alex Iwobi's winning penalty after a penalty shoot out during the Pre-season friendly International Champions Cup game between Arsenal and Chelsea at Aviva stadium on August 1, 2018 in Dublin, Ireland.

(July 31, 2018 - Source: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images Europe)

Iwobi had the option to represent his country of birth, England, internationally but chose to wear the Super Eagles jersey, the country of origin for his parents. He has actually made a debut appearance in a Nollywood movie called Inpadisu whose release date is yet to be announced.

FT Hidden Gems Series: Idrissa Gana Gueye

We continue heralding some of the unsung African heroes of the modern game of football mainly because we can and quite frankly, we also care. The first of the bunch was the 22-year old Adama Traore, the Malian whom we think will light up the English Premier League this season.

Our next pick is also from West Africa, Senegal to be specific. Idrissa Gueye, popularly known as Gana by his teammates has won hearts in the blue half of Merseyside, Everton. In the club’s constant change in management, from Ronald Koeman, Sam Allardyce and now, Marco Silva, Gana is one of the few players whose name have topped the team sheet. Ever since joining the club in the 2016/17 season, he has made a remarkable 33 Premier League appearances out of the available 38 in that debut season and then also another 33 appearances in the subsequent one. Only two of those in the entire period were from the bench, which is a glimpse of how important he has become at Everton.

Idrissa Gueye of Everton tackles Joao Moutinho of Wolverhampton Wanderers during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Everton FC at Molineux on August 11, 2018 in Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 10, 2018 - Source: David Rogers/Getty Images Europe)

“To give an even more interesting sense of scale, Gana was statistically the best holding midfielder in the whole of Europe in the 2016 calendar year, averaging 8.25 tackles and interceptions per game. This man can stop anyone in their tracks or put them on the grass at will.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

He is not very outspoken and neither is his game, but you feel it when he is not in the match. Gana’s style of play is not very different from that of Barcelona’s Sergio Busquets or everyone’s favorite, N’golo Kante. Of course, it’s arguable whether he is at the same level as these two, he may be smaller but he is not too far away. Even though he plays for a mid-table club in the Premier League, which does not always afford him the chance to win trophies and be shone on the medals podium, his statistics speak for themselves. In the 2017/18 season, he made the second highest number of tackles in the league, only second to Nigeria’s Wilfried Ndidi, another gem in the making. But the thing is, he has been doing this consistently. Since his Premier League debut in 2015 under Aston Villa, Gueye has made a total of, 396 tackles, only the acclaimed N’golo Kante has made more, just nineteen more. To give an even more interesting sense of scale, Gana was statistically the best holding midfielder in the whole of Europe in the 2016 calendar year, averaging 8.25 tackles and interceptions per game. This man can stop anyone in their tracks or put them on the grass at will.

Gueye is growing and developing into an effective holding midfielder, especially in the modern game, but he has weaknesses too. He a very deep-lying midfielder who only lies deep, too deep at times. He is not as adventurous as Kante, who periodically runs up the field to attack, assist or get some goals on the scoresheet. This is something which may not be part of his job description but has become crucial to the modern game and definitely nothing he cannot learn. The 28-year old has been criticised for his “nonchalant defending” by some, even emerging as one of the reasons why others think Senegal were knocked out of the 2018 FIFA World Cup by Colombia.

Idrissa is arguably one of the top tough tacklers in the game today and will continue being the difference to any side fortunate to have him.

FT Hidden Gems Series: Remember the name - Adama Traore

The outspoken Tim Sherwood who managed Tottenham and Aston Villa said he had a bit of both Ronaldo and Messi. The Belfast Telegraph pointed out that, "he's built like an absolute tank. Size of the arms on that man. One drive and it would be lights out". Catherine Wilson of ESPN FC commented on his remarkable “athleticism” also highlighting that his "footballing brain and teamwork skills are definitely up for debate." If you know Adama Traore, you probably understand what these people said and why I wrote this feature. If this is your first point of contact with the 22-year-old, you may realise that he is a work-in-progress, excellent work-in-progress. Note down the name of this Malian, he probably rock the football world quite soon. But who is he?

Adama was born in Spain to Malian parents and began his footballing career at Barcelona at the age of eight. Things didn’t work out as he might have envisioned as he managed to make a few countable appearance for the B-team as well as the first team. Perhaps, one of the Catalonia highlights for Adama was coming in late for Neymar in Barca’s 4-0 over Granada FC in the La Liga. He was just 17, at the time.

In 2015, the Spain youth team international arrived in the Premier League, signing for Aston Villa under Tim Sherwood. Times were hard at Villa Park. Traore appeared eleven times for the team that was eventually relegated to the Championship, scoring zero goals in the process. The winger then joined Middlesbrough a year later and was unfortunate to take part in 32-scoreless matches for the club which also got axed from the English Premier League. Stuff is beginning to take shape now for the young winger.

Adama Traore of Middlesbrough controls the ball as Jack Grealish of Aston Villa looks on during the Sky Bet Championship Play Off Semi Final second leg match between Aston Villa and Middlesbrough at Villa Park on May 15, 2018 in Birmingham, England.

(May 14, 2018 - Source: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images Europe)

He was named Middlesbrough Fans Player Of The Year, Players Player Of The Year and Young Player Of The Year in the 2017-18 Championship season where he scored five times and served up ten assists. Premier League newcomers, Wolverhampton Wanderers acquired his services in the just ended summer transfer window for a fee reported to be in the region of £18 million pounds.

“In three more years, I think this buzzing around Zaha will be just a pin in the haystack compared to that we will hear of Adama Traore. ”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Now, what do I think of this player? He has come to the EPL for a second time when he is familiar with the league’s demands and playing for a club with big ambition to stay, demonstrated by their summer spending. He will get regular game time playing alongside some quality and experienced players in the form of Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho - players who will really bring out the best of Adama. I mean, this guy might outpace Aubameyang in a foot race and his ability to take on players makes me think of Zaha. In three more years, I think this buzzing around Zaha will be just a pin in the haystack compared to that we will hear of Adama Traore. Of course, I probably exaggerated, but that’s just how exciting he is. I literally feel butterflies in my stomach.

Adam is yet to make the Wolves debut as he is still getting back to fitness after the holiday and an shoulder injury, but the hype around him is already of the charts. His new teammate and defender, Matt Doherty, described the winger to be “unplayable.”

“We played against him last season and at times he’s unplayable – I’ve not seen that type of running with the ball, pace and power, from anyone.”

— Matt Doherty, Wolverhampton Wanderers

Having been capped only by Spain’s youth teams, Adama is still eligible to choose either Spain or Mali for his international career. At FirstTouch, we are really watching Adama Traore’s space.

Enough talking. You may want to check the video below to see what the kid is made up of.

Do you remember the Ivorian, Gervinho? He’s back in the Italian Serie A

The 31-year-old Ivory Coast international is still in the football world, as a player in case you had forgotten about him. The former Arsenal forward has returned to the Italian Serie A, signing for new boys, Parma after he was released by Hebei China Fortune.

Gervinho of the Ivory Coast in action during the International Friendly match between the Netherlands and Ivory Coast held at De Kuip or Stadion Feijenoord on June 4, 2017 in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

(June 3, 2017 - Source: Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Europe)

The forward who neared legend status, at least in my opinion is back for a second spell in Italy having previously played for AS Roma. He appeared 88 times for Roma, scoring 26 goals in three seasons before moving to the Chinese Super League side, Hebei China Fortune where he only found the net 4 times in two-and-half years.

Gervinho has been capped 80 times for Ivory Coast and counting. He scored some 22 goals in those caps and won the African Cup of Nations trophy with the Elephants in 2015, having missed a sudden death penalty in the 2012 final when the Ivorians lost to Zambia. He played at two FIFA World Cups, 2010 and 2014 scoring some great goals as well.

He is apparently not done with the Italian Serie A. Will he create more moments magic before he calls time on his career?

Just in case you forgot what he can bring, check out the video below.

Ivory Coast’s Zaha commits to Palace ending months long speculation

Many of you know him for the edgy haircuts,  some for the ear to ear smile, diving criticism and quite a number of you for the “stop it bro” captions on our FirstTouch Instagram page for embarrassing defenders.  Yes, the amazingly talented forward who has terrorised Premier League defenders in the Eagles colors has penned a new deal keeping him at Selhurst park until the 2022/23 season.

The 25-year-old has really become the backbone of the Crystal Palace side that survived a relegation scare in the 2017/18 campaign after a poor start that saw them lose all of their opening seven matches with scoring a single goal. The fans actually came for the eighth match wearing 007 shirts telling the story of their mishap, only for Zaha to return and break the curse by handing them a 2-1 win over the then Champions Chelsea. In total, he netted nine times in the 2017/18 EPL season and started of this campaign in the similar form, scoring in their 2-0 win over Fulham to become the club’s joint English Premier League top scorer. He has been a subject of speculation with the likes of Tottenham, Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea being linked to the forward whose reported price tag falls in the region of £70 million. It could be much more now because of this new contract.

Cyrus Christie of Fulham and Wilfried Zaha of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage on August 11, 2018 in London, United Kingdom.

(Aug. 10, 2018 - Source: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images Europe)

Here is what Wilfried had to say after putting pen to paper.

“I just wanted to get it over and done with, so I can focus on the season. I’m buzzing that we managed to get it sorted.”

— Wilfried Zaha, Crystal Palace and Ivory Coast

Even the club chairman admitted that the team is to be built around the Ivorian:

“It’s the last piece of the jigsaw in the transfer window. One of the important things for Wilfried is that we can compete at this level. It’s important that he stays, but we have to put a team around him. ”

— Steve Parish, Crystal Palace Chairman

For Crystal Palace's sake, hopefully Zaha can stay healthy. The Eagles were winless in Zaha's injury absences at the start of last year's campaign and will be hoping for a better start this season. With a 2-0 win on opening day against Fulham, it's safe to say they are on the right track.

Moses will not be seeing the ‘promised land’ with Nigeria after international retirement

On Wednesday, Chelsea’s Victor Moses shook most in the footballing world after announcing his retirement from international football at the age of 27. Most footballers usually hang up their boots at an average age of 34 or 40 if you are Italian. But Moses’ one is a rare find, even Mesut Ozil’s early retirement at 29 was astounding but maybe justified because of the racism claims he fired against some officials in the German Football Association. Could there be more to Victor’s decision?

Moses was capped 37 times for the Super Eagles and scored 12 times including in the most recent world cup appearance in Russia from the penalty spot in their 2-1 loss to Argentina. Nigeria eventually failed to reach the knockout stages of the tournament after that result. He played at two FIFA World Cup tournaments and won the 2013 African Cup of Nations in South Africa. Moses has chosen to take a bow at a time where most are expecting the Super Eagles to continue building from recent positives and soar to new heights. Could he be missing out on sweeter times in the Nigerian camp?

The Chelsea player who will be under new management in London after the arrival of Maurizio Sarri did not forget to explain his decision.

Victor Moses of Nigeria celebrates with teammates after scoring his team's first goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Nigeria and Argentina at Saint Petersburg Stadium on June 26, 2018 in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

(June 25, 2018 - Source: Gabriel Rossi/Getty Images Europe)

“I have experienced some of the best moments of my life wearing the Super Eagles shirt and have memories with me that will last a lifetime. However, I feel that now is the right time to step away in order to be able to focus fully on my club career and young family, as well as to allow the next generation the opportunity to step up and to flourish. Thank you for the memories and good luck to the team for the future.”

— Victor Moses, Chelsea and former Nigerian International

Atletico Madrid fire warning shots with Super Cup triumph over Real Madrid

Who is the ‘realest’ in Madrid now? Perhaps Diego Simeone’s men can claim this accolade proudly created by me I suppose. The Europa League champions began the 2018/19 campaign on a high after getting one over the UEFA Champions League holders who also happen to be local rivals with a 4-2 win after extra time in Estonia.

It was the first competitive match for the 13 time European champions in the Cristiano Ronaldo-less and post-Zidane era after the former joined Juventus in the summer whilst the latter seemed to have journeyed to the Middle East or maybe Manchester as we speak. It took less than a minute for Diego Costa to put Atleti ahead with a sublime finish from a tight angle. It was really a half chance but the Spaniard did what he does best, conjuring a goal seemingly out of nothing. Benzema then equalised for Los Blancos in the 27th minute before Captain Ramos deservedly scored from the penalty spot to put the men in white ahead, after a good spell when they seemed to have controlled the match. It had to be that man again, Costa. The 29-year-old finished from close range, 11 minutes from time after an eye-catching movement spearheaded by Juanfran from the right which also caught the eyes of some Real Madrid defenders.

Diego Godin of Atletico Madrid lifts the trophy as Atletico Madrid celebrate victory in the UEFA Super Cup between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid at Lillekula Stadium on August 15, 2018 in Tallinn, Estonia

(Aug. 14, 2018 - Source: Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images Europe)

Things really went from bad to worse for the Bernabeu residents in extra-time. Two great goals from Saul Niguez and Koke put the match beyond Real and perhaps started exposing some ailments of the new Lopetegui era. I saw some high school defending moments by two of the best centre backs in the world, a spineless but Modricfull midfield and many other things that would piss Real fans. It really was surreal and I hope it was just a one day thing for the European Champions. Ronaldo fans are well in their right enjoying an “I told you so moment right now.”

In summary, Real Madrid were not at their best but Atletico were scary good as well. New signing, Thomas Lemar enjoyed a free role on the pitch for Los Rojiblancos and this performance could really be building up to the FirstTouch ‘prophecy.’

Make no mistake, this was definitely a statement to the rest of Europe. Atletico is ready for anyone.

FT English Premier League Preview: What does Naby Keita bring to Liverpool?

Preamble

From dodging cars in the streets of Conakry, Guinea to be on of the most exciting midfield talents in the world of football, Naby’s story is also a Cinderella one. It’s on record just how much he has loved the game since he was a toddler. Naby kicked anything that met his feet, played football in the busy Koleya streets shoeless or otherwise, faced rejection at several trials in France because of his stature and a lack of tactical understanding of the game. Now, we know his name, Anfield and indeed the Premier League awaits for the diminutive trickster. What should we expect?

Eight is the number

Naby Keita of Liverpool during the Pre-Season Friendly between Blackburn Rovers and Liverpool at Ewood Park on July 19, 2018 in Blackburn, England.

(July 18, 2018 - Source: Getty Images Europe) 

The 23-year-old arrived at Liverpool after switching from RB Leipzig in a then-record transfer for the Merseyside club, valued at £52.75 million. He inherited the number ‘8’ shirt at Liverpool, which had been vacant since the days of the legend, Steven Gerrard. In fact, Steve G himself did the honors of handing the prized shirt to the Guinean international. These are the shoes he is expected to fill, shoes that many believe he will fill. Just for some perspective, Gerrard spent 17 years at the club and scored 186 goals in 710 appearances in a similar role. Yes, it's no easy feat. Keita already has 17 goals and 15 assists so far in his professional career since appearing for Red Bull Salzburg in 2014. Should he just maintain this rate, mathematics tells us that Keita will rise to the occasion and tread the path of Legends like Gerrard, perhaps even make his own.

The playing style

Keita was mostly deployed on the wing at RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, but football science and art tell us that he is a number 8. The kind that is popularly known as a box to box midfielder. He is likely going to play in the midfield of three with the recent arrival at Liverpool, Fabinho who is able to provide more defensive cover to the defenders and Jordan Henderson, Milner or Gini Wijnaldum. When Oxlade Chamberlain recovers from injury, he will also surely be among Jurgen Klopp’s options. It is true that Keita will have to repeatedly prove his inclusion into the starting eleven in the presence of such competition, but here why I think he could easily be one of the first names on the team sheet.

“Essentially, I see Keita as a possessing the combined qualities of Wijnaldum, Henderson and Oxlade Chamberlain. You get more from him than choosing any of the three individual players.”

— Dennis Takaendesa, FirstTouch Africa

Liverpool play a 4-3-3 formation with Roberto ‘Bobby’ Firmino as the false nine, Salah and Mane on either wing. They actually do not have a proper attacking midfielder who assumes the playmaker role, Firmino has been the one closest to being that. Now, Naby doubles as a defensive and attacking midfielder. He is able to intercept passes, break presses from the opposition and quickly turn defense into attack. The Guinean is so comfortable on the ball, that he is able to creatively run through the midfield, skipping markers and even finding the back of the net in the absence of good options to receive the ball from him. This obviously attracts opponents, freeing the likes of Mo Salah, Mane, and Firmino who have become a deadly attacking trio that not many can stop. He can also pick players from any part of the pitch with long passes, much like Henderson.

No wonder the Mersey-side club broke the bank for him.

Naby Keita #8 of Liverpool controls the dribble as he moves towards the goal and is chased by Amos Pieper #42 and Herbert Bockhorn #39 of Borussia Dortmund during an International Champions Cup match at Bank of America Stadium on July 22, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

(July 21, 2018 - Source: Bob Leverone/Getty Images North America) 

Under Klopp, Liverpool have become devastating on the counter-attack and somewhat predictable. Many would agree that they play long balls, more of the long balls coming from the previous midfield and defensive setup. They will still play long balls but Keita would offer something different when required, with his ability to take on players and squeeze in key short and defense-splitting passes. He has been compared to Kante and a host of many other great central midfielders, but he is just Naby Keita. Jurgen Klopp himself has hinted on Naby’s indispensable role to the 2018 UEFA Champions League finalists.

“I see him as an ‘8’, he can play ‘10’ as well, maybe in the future, he can play ‘6’ as well. At Leipzig he played as a winger - that’s for sure not his best position but he can play it because he has the speed for it, he has the football intelligence for it. We see him as a creative No.8, playing the passes and making the runs with the ball.”

— Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool Manager

The family-factor

“Salzburg improved me as a player and I learnt so much there, I got a really tactical education. Sadio was important for me, he still is! To me, he’s my big brother. He really likes to learn new things, to improve and to push himself and we are the same in this way. He’s a good example for me.”

— Naby Keita, Guinea and Liverpool

Equally important to great performances on the pitch, is a good off the pitch environment. It seems like Baby Keith has settled well at Melwood Park from the social media coverage. You could guess that central to the smooth transition could be the African connection at the club, more so Sadio Mane whom Keita sees as a big brother since their time together at Red Bull Salzburg in Austria. 

Liverpool, it just might be your time this time. You obviously ain’t walking alone!

FT French Ligue 1 Preview: PSG must win the UEFA Champions League to keep Neymar

The Brazilian sensation left Barcelona in a bid to step out of Messi’s shadow and achieve his goals of winning the Ballon d’Or at the French giants Paris-Saint Germain. He hoped that the club’s recruitment policy would give him an edge when the tournament commences and that they would be able to recruit the best players who would be able to compete at the highest level. Last season, PSG failed to make it past Real Madrid in the round-of-16. This year, they will have to do better than that if they are to stand a chance to fend off interest from the likes of Real Madrid in keeping their star player at the club. In this feature story, we look at how the club can be able to win the title.

Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid and Neymar of PSG embrace at half time during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 First Leg match between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain at Bernabeu on February 14, 2018 in Madrid, Spain.

(Feb. 13, 2018 - Source: Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images Europe)

The recruitment of the Italian and Juventus legend, Gianluigi Buffon to beef up their goalkeeper position is nothing but a positive signing for the club. The legend brings his vast amount of experience to a squad that looked out of character when they were dispatched by Real Madrid last year. PSG needed a commanding number 1, and they have got their man who will organise his defence and hopefully prevent the best players in the world from scoring past him. Apart from that, he also brings his winning mentality. Buffon won the last 7 Serie A titles in a row with Juve and is also a 2006 FIFA World Cup winner. He has been around for a long time and knows how to compete. The UEFA Champions League title is a trophy that has eluded him, and he will be as hungry as Neymar to win it this year.

Football is a team sport. Neymar cannot win the trophy on his own. He will need his teammates to bring their A game to the table if they really want him to stay at the Parc des Princes. This means that players like Kylian Mbappe and Edinson Cavani have to bring their World Cup form to Paris and help Neymar push for the title. The former is a teenage sensation who shined at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia but was went hiding when PSG faced Real Madrid in the 2017/18 season. He should be looking to grow from that experience and carry his form into the coming season. Cavani was also at the focal point of Uruguay’s success at the tournament before picking up an injury that kept him out of the squad that was eliminated by France. The whole team has to be at their best this season and play to Neymar’s strengths if they want him to lead them to European glory.

Neymar of Brazil reacts after a missed opportunity during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Quarter Final match between Brazil and Belguim at Kazan Arena on July 6, 2018 in Kazan, Russia.

(July 5, 2018 - Source: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images Europe)

There are rumours that PSG wants to sign N’Golo Kante from Chelsea this season. The 27-year old is a midfield destroyer who has been at the heart of successes of the best teams in recent years. He first led his club Leicester to the EPL title in 2015/16 before winning it again the following year with Chelsea. This year, he was trusted with the defensive responsibilities in the French team that lifted the 2018 FIFA World Cup trophy. N’Golo Kante is famous for stopping Messi, arguably the world’s best player, in his tracks and preventing Argentina from making it to the quarter-final stage. PSG need a player like Kante who could strike a partnership with Marco Verratti in the spine of the French team and protect the backline. Whether the club will actually get to sign him from the English side remains to be seen, but it is clear that they would stand a better chance of winning the most prized asset in European club football if they have the defensive midfielder on their books.

Sometimes a good run in the tournament requires some bit of luck. The draw did not favour the club in the previous season. PSG were unfortunate to face the defending champions in the round-of-16 in the 2017/18 season . This year, they would want to avoid the biggest teams in the tournament at the early stage as they build momentum. However, some argue that you have to beat the best teams in the competition to be called the best. What do you think that PSG has to do to keep Neymar at the club after this season?

FT Spanish La Liga Preview: Title Favorites? Do Not Forget About Atletico Madrid

Over the last few years, we have seen the Diego Simeone assembled, Atletico Madrid transform from being just a club to a real-world phenomenon. They have notoriously appeared in two UEFA Champions League finals, won the Spanish League title, won three Europa league titles and two UEFA Super Cups in a space of just 9 years. In that process, we have also seen them switch stadiums in search of more breathing space for their success, moving from Vicente Calderon to the acclaimed Wanda Metropolitano. This is the kind of progression we saw under the Arsene Wenger era, at least during the days he was worshipped by the Arsenal fans. For a time such as this, where football clubs seem to be “buying their way to success”, more often the legendary clubs who were adored way before Atletico - what’s their place? I would argue that they will actually be going for the kill. They have what it takes to win anything this season.

Zero pressure for Los Rojiblancos

When people talk about the Spanish Premier League, more often than not, two clubs come to mind. Barcelona and Real Madrid - the hosts of the infamous El Clasico derby, one of the most popular matches in all sports entertainment. These two teams are literally always competing against each other, on and off the pitch. In the 2018/19 season, Real Madrid will be looking to prove that they are still a force to reckon with when it comes to domestic football. After winning three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles, the La Liga crown might just be the priority. Rest assured, Barcelona will not let their hold on the top spot go without a fight, especially after the near perfect 2017/18 campaign in which they lost only a single game. Furthermore, Lopetegui’s Real Madrid will also be keen on proving that there is life after the 40+ goal machine, Cristiano Ronaldo and Mr. Champions League, Zinedine Zidane. Barca will have to make a case for their huge spending on the field of play. All these and many other factors leave Atletico with the least pressure to win titles under the microscopic lens of journalists, fans, and pundits - the kind of freedom that actually permits teams to grow and win. Remember they claimed 2nd place last season in the La Liga table, my money is on them now winning it this season.

They have all the right ingredients to win

There aren’t a lot of football managers who are as animated and demanding as Diego Simeone. He has been at the helm of the club during these remarkable nine years and is not slowing down. Manager, check! Let’s talk about the squad. Arguably the best goalkeeper in the world right now lines up in goal for Atletico - Jan Oblak. The 25-year-old Slovenian conceded the least number of goals in Spain last season. Atleti’s defense is Uruguayan made, with perhaps the best center-back pair in the world, Diego Godin and Jose Jimenez central to that wall of Jericho. Most of us might have seen how the defensive brilliance of these two carried Uruguay to the quarterfinals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. In fact, Uruguay finished the group stages without conceding a single goal. Let us not forget to mention the 2018 World Cup winners in that setup, Lucas Hernandez, and Antoine Griezmann, who showed up big time for France in Russia. Did someone say, Diego Costa? Saul Niguez, Juanfran, Filipe Luis, Koke etc - they will be eager to again represent Atleti’s colors.

Most interestingly, they have become quite a boring side, in the opinion of some, despite all their successes by reason of their conservative style of play. But who knows, perhaps this coming season will see some form of dynamism from Simeone’s men, after acquiring two dynamic and pacey young wingers in the form of Thomas Lemar and Gelson Martins.

The Partey Factor

Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona fouls Thomas Partey of Atletico de Madrid during the La Liga match between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at Camp Nou on March 4, 2018 in Barcelona, Spain.

(March 3, 2018 - Source: Alex Caparros/Getty Images Europe)

Here at FirstTouch, we try to highlight and emphasize more focus towards African players, and Thomas Partey is a real force in that midfield and deserves special mention. Not much can be said about his statistics because the game has almost been reduced to measure performance by the number of goals scored, irrespective of the position one plays. The 25-year-old Ghanaian is pretty much in that bracket of Barca’s Sergio Busquets and Real Madrid’s Casemiro when it comes to breaking up play, winning tackles and starting the attack. He appeared 28 times for Atletico Madrid last season and will most certainly be a crucial part of the midfield backbone.

Be afraid, be very afraid!

If you are a Juventus, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Manchester City, Barcelona, Bayern Munich fan or anyone else who fancies themselves winning the UEFA Champions League trophy, Atletico might just stop you in your tracks on their day. More than just frustrating your favorite team, they have real sharpshooters who can also score for fun with the slightest of chances. And yes, the 2019 UEFA Champions League Final will be held at their home, Wanda Metropolitano. I am sure they will be extra motivated to be playing in a Champions League final hosted in their cauldron of a stadium.

FT World Cup 2018: Live From Russia - We Witnessed A Monumental Upset

FirstTouch is in Russia for the World Cup 2018. We will be attending multiple games and celebrating the world’s game with fans from all across the world! Enjoy our blogs that document some of our experiences.

The opening game between Russia and Saudia Arabia set the country aflame with perhaps even more passion and jubilation for the World Cup now that the host nation had announced itself in such a real way to the world. The second game in Moscow for our viewing pleasure was Germany vs Mexico. The World Cup 2014 champions against CONCACAF's best contender. As Americans abroad, we felt inspired to support Mexico regardless of my own personal history in Germany. What a decision that would turn out to be. It was quite possibly one of the most exhilarating moments of my life to be in that stadium and witness such a game. The emotional overload, however, began as you entered the Moscow public transit. Some of the newer trains had televisions in it so you could watch highlights or even the games themselves, and with each passing metro station that brought us closer to the stadium, we could encounter more and more fans from each country. German fans and Mexican fans singing and descending upon the stadium with excitement for the first game for each country at the tournament. 

What made the game so thrilling was not just our incredible seats our father was able to acquire for all of us, but the ambiance of the atmosphere itself. I have yet to watch a game in Mexico, but due to the fact that the Mexican fans greatly outnumbered the German ones, the Luzhniki Stadium felt more like Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The charm of the World Cup is that everyone puts aside political beliefs and any and all seemingly divisive emotions to celebrate the world's game. Even with such a numerical advantage in the stands, I never felt any hostility. In fact, our seats were behind a group of Germans that came from a town one hour from Dortmund, the city I lived and played in. In front of them sat a group of Brazilians that were clearly there to support the Mexicans, but everyone was engaging in banter before the game. 

The game itself was a thrilling encounter and a tactical masterclass from the Mexican coach and players. Germany was not immediately prepared to play at the tempo Mexico started the game with, and Lozano's first-half goal led to an eruption in the stadium and beer showers from the Mexican fans above us. It was quite simply the best 1-0 game I have ever watched and I cannot wait for the next game we will go to. 

UCL Road to Kiev Final: Roma vs Liverpool

The story of the season so far has been the meteoric rise of Mohamed Salah. Purchased from Roma last summer for what was then a highly scrutinized fee, Liverpool have given him the stage to show his many talents and take that next step in becoming a truly World Class player. The first leg was symbolic of his entire season. With 2 goals and 2 assists, it wasn’t until he was substituted that Roma looked to have any advantages in the game. Roma have proven that they can find a solution for 3 goal deficits to Barcelona’s chagrin, and they will be hoping the Stadio Olympico inspires another comeback on Wednesday. After winning 4-1 at the weekend in their Serie A match against Crotone, they will be hoping for the same exact scoreline against Liverpool. Credit must be given to Jurgen Klopp who has inspired his side this far in the Champions League and brought back genuine excitement amongst the rabid Liverpool fans.

The winner of this tie will already know who they are facing in the final in Kiev on May 26th. Di Francesco will need to make sure his tactics are better than they were in the first leg if he is to hope for another dramatic comeback like the one he produced against Barcelona. With a newly signed contract extension, Roberto Firmino will be leading the line and hope to lead Liverpool to their first Champions League final in over a decade. All eyes will be on how Liverpool handle the early moments of the game, however, especially given that Manchester City scored early against them the last tie, but Klopp’s men were able to still produce a clinical display of quick, sharp counterattacking football to dispose of Manchester City. Dzeko vs Salah will prove to be the matchup that in all likelihood shapes how this second leg will play out.

Roma could dispose of Liverpool with the same 3-0 scoreline they produced the last time they played at the Stadio Olimpico.

Liverpool will be hoping Mane is fit and ready to go after reportedly visiting a hospital after the first leg. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will, unfortunately, miss out after suffering a season-ending knee injury in the first leg.

James Milner is a player reborn with Liverpool and leads all players in assists this campaign with a record 9 assists this season in Champions League.

UCL Road to Kiev Final: Real Madrid vs Bayern Munich

The stars seemed to be aligned for Madrid this season. After eliminating two perennial Champions League favorites in PSG and Juventus in the previous knockout rounds, Zidane’s men are 90 minutes away from a third consecutive Champions League final. What has been key for Real Madrid has been their ability to score goals in crucial moments during these matches. The first leg was massively disappointing for Jupp Heynckes’s men and they must feel frustrated having to arrive in Madrid with a 2-1 deficit to overturn. Lewandowski will be hoping for a better performance in the second leg and with a returning David Alaba and Javi Martinez, Bayern may be able to do what PSG and Juventus previously failed to do.

Both sides rested their key players at the weekend, with Heynckes going as far as rotating 8 different players into the lineup for their Bundesliga game. Bayern won comfortably regardless of the rotations, defeating Eintracht Frankfurt 4-1. Zidane also had the luxury of resting his key players with La Liga beyond Madrid at this point of the season, and his side won 2-1 at the weekend against Leganes.  Bayern have already won the Bundesliga title and the DFB Cup final also awaits them, but the Champions League is the trophy they will want to win the most this season. Madrid have nothing left to play for other than defending their European dominance for a second straight time, which has yet to be accomplished or even attempted in the modern Champions League era. James Rodriguez vs Isco will be the duel that could prove key for both sides because both players will be looking to provide that spark for their goal-scorers in Lewandowski and Cristiano. With a goal at the weekend for Madrid, Gareth Bale may also have a say in this tie, however, Marco Asensio and Lucas Vasquez have both provided valuable contributions so far in the knockout rounds. Bayern may rue all of the chances they missed in the first leg, but they will know that Madrid have proved vulnerable at home after seeing Juventus come within minutes of victory in the last tie.

Cristiano failed to score for the first time in a Champions League game this season, which is an incredible statistic, but he will look to score in the second leg to lead his team to the final in Kiev.

Lewandowski’s future has been subject to intense speculation these last few months, which can sometimes unsettle a player, but he will certainly put in a better performance in the second leg for his potential new employers

Bayern will be without key men Arturo Vidal and Arjen Robben in the second leg. Madrid will also be without key man Dani Carvajal. It will be interesting to see how Zidane covers that position knowing that Ribery was one of Bayern’s best players in the first leg.

Spotlight: Who is Yaya Toure?

As we approach the end of the English Premier League season, FirstTouch takes time to look back and appreciate one of the most influential players in the league. Yaya Toure, an all-round midfielder from Cote d’Ivoire, played for Barcelona and Manchester City in the best years of his career. The 33-year old is approaching the end of his time at the Etihad with his contract set to expire at the end of the 2017/18 season. Let’s look at what Yaya Toure has been through during his stay at the above-mentioned clubs in Europe.   

First off, let’s focus on his time at Barcelona. Yaya Toure joined Barcelona from Monaco in 2007 for £6.7m after being an influential midfielder for the French side where he rescued them from relegation. However, Toure had problems with the previous manager of the club, Laszlo Boloni, who was not playing him in his midfield most preferred position. When he joined Barcelona, he enjoyed the first season under Rijkaard where he made a total of 40 appearances which managed two goals. Yaya Toure was still in the shadow of big brother Kolo who was making a name for himself at Arsenal as a rock solid defender in the EPL. Guardiola took over the reins just a year later, and he preferred Busquets to Yaya Toure as the defensive midfielder for Barcelona in 2008. The promise of first-team football in his preferred position at Barcelona was not going to be possible. Guardiola used the player as a center-back in the UEFA Champions League final in 2009 when the team suffered from injuries. He was later allowed to move to the club of his dream in 2010.

Manchester City approached Toure and he, initially thought that he would be joining Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United. It was his agent who clarified that he was joining the team who wears blue and he was excited by the challenge of joining a club that was in the shadow of their local rivals. Manchester City paid £24.6 million for the services of a player who was pretty much a reserve player and Toure was going to be receiving £139,000 a week. The journey of the African player to become a legend at the Etihad Stadium was set on course.

2012 was a year of history for the cash-rich Manchester club. It is the year that the club beat Manchester United to the title on goal difference. Sergio Aguero scored the winner for Manchester City in stoppage time of the last game in the 2011/12 season. Yaya Toure was an integral part of the club’s midfield. This earned him much respect in the English Premier League and comparisons with some of the greatest midfielders in the league like Keane, Vieira, etc. was just a moment away. Toure came out and thanked his teammates for the title and paid tribute to his manager for trusting in him and playing him in a position that he found difficult to maintain in the previous clubs he represented.

In addition to that, Toure evolved to become a ruthless attacker who scored goals that are still admired today. In the 2013/14 season, Yaya Toure assumed a more attacking role in Manchester City and even though he was primarily deployed as a defensive midfielder. This season, Yaya Toure managed to score 20 goals in the English Premier League which was unspoken off considering that he came from deep to set himself up and his contribution won his club the English Premier League title again as well as the FA Cup. At this moment, Yaya Toure had become the more popular player in his family and had stepped out of the shadow of the former Arsenal player.

His career might sound smooth when reading this piece, but Toure has had his fair share of controversy during his time at City. The player once threatened to leave the club because they had forgotten to show him love on his 31st birthday. His agent, Dimitry Seluk, is the one that confirmed the story that the player felt disrespected and the club was put under pressure. Some saw this incident as a stunt by the pair to pressurize the club to improve the terms of the contract, and the club fell for it. His contract saw him being the highest paid player in English football at $334,000 a week. All this was soon going to fade away with the player approaching the ‘old age’ years.

The manager who pushed him out of the club at Barcelona and laughed at Toure for joining a ‘s**t’ team eventually found his way to Toure’s home. Pep Guardiola has announced the new boss at Manchester City in 2016, and the Ivorian player probably knew that he was doomed. It is no secret that the pair had a rocky relationship because of the way the manager treated Toure at Barcelona and eventually forced him to move to the Citizens. This time, Guardiola took over a club where Toure was already a legend and was the focal point of the team before Aguero. The Spaniard soon changed that and eventually left Yaya out of the first team after his manager after Toure’s agent, Dimitry Seluk, called out Guardiola on his hypocrisy in coming to England after making fun of the club in 2010. This did not sit down well with Guardiola, and he punished the player because of his agent’s words. The fans were heartbroken by this situation but the relationship was mended, and Yaya was restored to the first team early last year. He played enough to earn another year in an extension.

This season seems like it will be his last at Manchester City and he has been ousted again for the third time in his career by the same manager. Guardiola brought replacements for the player because he does not believe in his abilities and it is about time that the player takes the next step in his career. Toure played in the 4-1 win against West Ham today, and he could only manage a second-half appearance even when the team has been confirmed champions of the Premier League this season. It is evident that Guardiola never like him and the African player will probably leave in the summer. It has been quite a journey for the Ivorian midfielder who won the La Liga (twice), Copa del Rey, UEFA Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, FA Cup, League Cup (twice), and the English Premier League on three occasions. He has undoubtedly subscribed his name in the Hall of Fame of not just English football, but on the European scene and he will be missed if he decides to call his time at the end of the season.