Not All Doom And Gloom For Arsenal

After a new year which started with a gentle undercurrent of trepidation from Arsenal fans, they can now find solace in the fact that, not only is the club not in complete disarray, but perhaps, better off. While Alexis Sanchez and Olivier Giroud left The Emirates, both Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang arrived to the delight of the Arsenal faithful. Moreover, Mesut Ozil's contract extension meant it was smiles all round at The Emirates.

As much as Arsenal fans reluctantly admitted it, Sanchez simply had to leave due to the hostile nature that was being stirred up in the changing room. No man is bigger than a club and the detrimental effect that Sanchez' insatiable demeanour was having on the rest of the team was more than it was worth.

Mkhitaryan was brought in as part of a swap deal, which was a sufficient replacement in many regards, but perhaps didn't provide the same game-changing ability that Sanchez possesses. This forced Wenger's hand into doing something he often shies away from - spending copious amounts of money.


Although not turning heads as much as he was two or three seasons ago, Aubameyang is still very much a desirable player for many top European clubs - hence his £60 million price tag. His raw pace and natural scoring ability give him that edge that make him comparable to players such as Sanchez.

Although Giroud effectively left to complete the striker-triangle involving himself, Aubameyang and Batshuayi, it is a move that will benefit him as his presence on the Arsenal bench was becoming an all too familiar sight.

Mesut Ozil's contract extension comes as somewhat of a surprise as it was often believed that if Sanchez were to go, that Ozil would soon follow suit and also pack his bags. It was also important to maintain his services as it makes Arsenal an enticing club for reputable players.


Arsenal have been the league's dramatic underachievers in recent seasons as their team, on paper, often leads the spectator to expect a consistent and dominating side, but this hasn't always been the case. While the arrival of Aubameyang and Mkhitaryan are welcome, it remains to be seen if Arsenal can now excel on the pitch.

No Signs Of Stalling From Rampant City

Manchester City augmented there prolific winning streak by beating Tottenham 4-1 at a foggy Etihad Stadium. The win made it sixteen premier league wins on the trot and, in all honesty, it was never in doubt. Although City had to wait until late on to really seal the win, they were dominant throughout with Tottenham being unable to muster any sort of purple patch.


City entered the match on the back of some tough affairs as teams tried to contain the flair and pageantry of Manchester City's formidable attacking prowess rather than take them on toe-to-toe. Even their bitter rivals United had to play quite a cautious and reserved game in an attempt to get a result.

In a lot of these games, City have managed to come up with late winners which is perhaps more impressive as it is indicative of a championship winning side - the ability to win even when you aren't playing your best.

Tottenham came out and tried to play City at their own game, which in fact, was a delight to see. They pressed high and played open, expansive football but this left them susceptible to the dangerous City counter-attack. Although the goals weren't coming for City, it was always a question of when and not if.

Gundogan scored from a corner after sauntering into the box unmarked to give the league leaders a 1-0 lead going into half time. After the break, City were vying for that coveted second goal to kill off the tie. City's talisman, Kevin De Bruyne, popped up minutes after being on the receiving end of a nasty Deli Alli challenge to smash the ball past the helpless Lloris. Two goals from Sterling made the scoreline more flattering towards the hosts, but perhaps deservedly so.

Erikson scored deep into injury time but this of course was only a consolation. Pochettino's side were ultimately playing second fiddle to City throughout, but they're not the first and they certainly won't be the last.

Flamini Potentially On His Way Back To Arsenal

Mattheu Flamini could be on his way back to the Emirates after training with the Arsenal side for the past two weeks. Flamini, 29, is looking for a new club after being released by AC Milan this summer.

It had been reported that Arsenal had had a bid rejected for Newcastle's Yohan Cabaye after making a £10 million bid that was described as 'derisory' by Newcastle.

So if Arsenal fail to land Cabaye, I can see them turning their complete attention to Flamini. Flamini is only in his late twenties so should have a few years left in him making the potential signing an appealing one.

Flamini, who left Arsenal back in 2008, had impressed in his last few years in London and became a favorite amongst the Emirates faithful. I'm sure all there would welcome him back even though he isn't the marque signing the fans want.

What do you think? Will Flamini make his way back to Arsenal?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Everton Not Interested In Barton

Everton show little appetite to sign Joey Barton despite his willingness to accept a 50% pay cut. Barton had taken to his twitter page to express his desire to move to Merseyside by tweeting 'Once a blue...'.

Barton, 30, had played his football with French side Marseille last year after QPR sent him out on loan after being given a 12 match ban at the start of the season.

Now that his loan spell is over, Barton wants his agent to manoeuvre a move to his boyhood team and make his wish come true. If only it was that easy to get a contract with the team you supported as a child, many men would be happy.

Unfortunately, however, Everton aren't as keen on Barton as he would have hoped and don't seem too rushed to make any offer for the midfielder.

Neville Southall has stated his opinion on the matter by saying 'Yes he is fit and runs up and down all day but Forrest Gump did that as well didn't he?'

What are your thoughts? Will Barton be a Everton player next season?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Chelsea's Hopes Of Landing Alonso Boosted

Real Madrid have increased rumors that Xabi Alonso may be on his out of Real Madrid after it is believed that they are weighing up a bid for Real Sociedad's Asier Illarramendi. As many would have guessed, Chelsea seem to be the most keen on the former Liverpool midfielder.

Xabi Alonso, 31, has been at the Bernabeu for four years now since moving from Anfield. Alonso and his representatives have held talks with Madrid but are yet to reach a deal regarding his future at the club.

It is also believed that Liverpool are hoping for the re-signing of Alonso, a player who did such great things at the club. 

The Summer has only begun and this story could take many twist and turns before the end of August but I can definitely see the return of Alonso back to the Premiership. Whether it's Chelsea or Liverpool, I don't know though. A reunion with Liverpool or a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Chelsea?

What do you think? Will Alonso be in the premiership next season?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

PSG And Chelsea to Fight Over Cavani Signature

Edison Cavani, who  is hot property this summer, is now involved in a tug of war between PSG and Chelsea. The Uruguayan, who currently plays his trade at Italian side Napoli, has a £54 million buy-out clause in his contract.

Cavani, 26, has been sought for some time now, but this summer seems to be the time when one of many top European clubs will get their wish and land the striker.

Jose Mourinho's Chelsea are believed to have made an approach for Cavani but were unwilling to meet the £54 million price tag that was put on the striker's head. PSG are believed to have also made an approach and reportedly put a £43 million offer for the Italian side to contemplate. 

Of course, you can't rule out other top European clubs, with Manchester City believed to have made an offer but like others were reluctant to reach the £54 million that is being asked.

What do you think? Where will Edison Cavani be playing his football next season?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Rumours, Bets And Online Gaming

There are many things that can make watching football more enjoyable, upgrading to a HD TV is a simple one that is now more affordable than ever. Another way for those with the best viewing experience already is to put a bet on the game you are going to watch. This will allow you to be more invested in the game and really get excited if your club is about to win. This is easier to do than ever before as you can now place bets online at many of the most reputable betting company’s websites. Even if you are out and about you can still place a bet using your mobile phone as they have also developed mobile friendly sites and apps.

As it is now so easy to place a bet on a game many betting and online casinos have gotten a lot larger rather fast in order to keep up with the demand of people wanting to place bets and play casino games online. Casino Online is one of these online casino sites that have been very successful in their ventures online and so there have been rumours that they would like to start sponsoring a football club. This is not uncommon as many betting and casino companies have taken this jump in order to help their brand awareness while also helping a club to grow.

Best Casinos online at CasinoOnline.nz is an online casino that have many people trust due to their years of service and massive range of fun to play games. Sponsoring a football team would not be such a farfetched thing for them to do as they do actually have a variety of football based games for people to play. As well as this though you will find great service and the ability to play many of the games for free before you decide if you want to put some money down.

Villas-Boas Insists Bale Is Not For Sale

Andre Villas-Boas has today expressed his belief that Gareth Bale will continue to play his football at Tottenham next season. This comes after much speculation that the Welsh playmaker was on his way out of White Hart Lane.

Bale, 23, was easily the standout player in the Premiership from last season and was deservedly rewarded with both the PFA Players' Player and Young Player of the Year.


The club with supposedly the most interest in Bale are none other than Spanish giants, Real Madrid. With quite arguably the biggest club side in world football it will be hard for Spurs to keep hold of their talisman.


Villas Boas though has reiterated his intent on keeping the Welsh international by stating 'we are not open to offers, whatever they are, and the player will stay'.

The absence of Champions League football though could leave Gareth Bale open to talks with Real Madrid.

What do you think? Will Gareth Bale still be a Spurs player next season?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Chelsea Offload Marin To Seville

Chelsea midfielder Marko Marin has been allowed to move to Spanish side Seville on a season-long loan. The German international, who signed for Chelsea last summer, has failed to make a big impact at Stamford Bridge. 

With tough competition among the Chelsea ranks and after picking up a hamstring injury early on in his Chelsea career, Marin hasn't really got a sniff at the first team. 

With the arrival of Andre Schurrle from German side  Bayer Leverkusen, it seems as if Marko Marin's chances of playing consistent first team football have weakened some more. 

For this, I think a year on loan at Seville is a great decision. Credible side in a very credible league, Marin should be very positive about this move. 

As for Chelsea, although very talented in midfield, players such as Frank Lampard and Michael Essien are getting on a bit. Should they have kept Marko Marin for cover?

What do you think? Is this a good move for all parties involved?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Carlos Tevez Completes Juventus Switch

Carlos Tevez has today said goodbye to Manchester and hello to Turin after signing a three year contract with Italian giants, Juventus. The fee is believed to be £10 million with a possibility of it rising by £2 million with add-ons.

Carlos Tevez, 29, has spent the last 6 years on both the blue side and red side of Manchester having spent 2 seasons with Manchester United before making the controversial move to Manchester City in 2009.

Although it was predicted that City were willing to offload a striker or two, it comes as a surprise, to me anyway, that the chosen striker was Carlos Tevez.

Carlos Tevez, who captained City to their first trophy for over 30 years after winning the FA Cup final in 2011, has been instrumental for City since joining the Blues. His energy, and more importantly his goals proved to be vital for City's success.

I think this is a great move for Juventus, not only in terms of the player they're getting, but also for the price they're getting him for. I believe Tevez still has a few years left in him.

What do you think? Will he be missed at Eastlands?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Rooney Will Stay

Sir Alex Ferguson has hit out at claims that Wayne Rooney could be on his way out of Old Trafford in the Summer Transfer Window. This comes after much speculation was made regarding the England international's future.

Rooney, 27, has been the subject of media attention as reports suggested a move away from Manchester United could be on the cards. Ferguson has since rubbished these claims stating that Rooney is staying put.

This comes after Rooney was left out of the side that faced Real Madrid on Tuesday in that disappointing 2-1 defeat. Rooney came on as a sub in the second half but not even he could save the day for United.

Ferguson, who has now been forced to turn his full attention to the to a league and cup double, instead of a potential treble, is now under pressure from journalists to clarify Rooney's future at Old Trafford.

Is Rooney still a key part to United's plans? Who would be an ideal replacement should he go?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Mancini Still Believes

Roberto Mancini has come out and stated he still believes the title race is still alive after he saw his side run out the victors in a 2-0 win over Chelsea. As his team closed the gap back to 12 points, the Italian, was still hopeful of a minor miracle.

Although City have seemingly relinquished their title, throwing away points they really should be getting, they are showing signs that we could possibly be in for a more tense ending to the season than we were perhaps expecting.

Man City have been, they would admit themselves, far from convincing this season. They have lacked the free-flowing football that they were associated with last year.

Key players such as David Silva and Yaya Toure have been good but not outstanding and it really has showed in the City performances as a whole.

Unlike last year though, they have experience of winning the title at it will really show coming into the business end of the season but they'll be going up against a side who have won the Premier League title on 12 separate occasions.

What do you make of City's chances? Will they at least make it interesting?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Gareth Bale Does It Again

Gareth Bale proved again to be instrumental as his side earned all three points at Upton Park thanks to two goals from the Welsh magician, with the winner being nothing short of extraordinary.

After taking the lead, Tottenham then had to make a comeback after going 2-1 down after an hour played. With a goal from Gylfi Sigurdsson leaving us with a tense finish, Bale stepped up to the plate again and delivered with an astonishing goal.

Gareth Bale, 23, is now one of the most sought after players in world football after showing some prolific performances recently. At such a young age, the prospects of how good he could be in a few years to come are frightening.

With many clubs inevitably interested in his availability  Spurs will do well to hang on to the Welsh international for much longer. Even if they eventually do sell off the playmaker, a hefty sum is surely on the cards.

What have you made of Gareth Bale this season? Would he be among the top 5 players in the world?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Hazard Apologizes For Kick

Eden Hazard has today come out and apologized for his alleged kick on a Swansea ball boy. Although only Hazard himself knows whether he was aiming for the boy or the ball, I think most would give him the benefit of the doubt and say he was trying to kick the ball from under him.

In fairness, the ball boy was acting the clown and unprofessional  In need of 2 goals, I don't think many players would have tried something too dissimilar if they were put in that situation.

It was later revealed that the ball boy had tweeted about time wasting. The tweet read,

 'the king of all ball boys is back making his final appearance #needed #for #timewasting'

It will be interesting to see how they deal with not only Eden Hazard, 22, but also the 17 year old ball boy. It's not unfair to say that there was two of them in it and I think the ball boy should be made somewhat an example of to stop any carry on of this like in the future.

What are your thoughts on this? Would you have reacted the same way Hazard did?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Kompany Gets Red Card Rescinded

Vincent Kompany has today had his red card, which he received against Arsenal at the weekend, rescinded. With many professionals of the game agreeing, it is quite easy to see that Kompany was harshly treated when handed the red card.

In a game that had more yellow and red cards than any other I've seen for a while, referee Mike Dean wasn't shy when dishing out red cards when he felt it was necessary.

The game itself was quite dull with Arsenal having to play 10 men with just 10 minutes played. Man City, to their credit, made the most of it and got the job done with goals from James Milner and Edin Dzeko enough to see off the Gunners.

I think its good to finally see the FA have some sense and show a bit of discretion when it comes to decisions like these. Although, by law, it was a legitimate red card and some would say he endangered the safety of Jack Wilshere, the right decision was made by the FA to have the red card rescinded.

What do you make of this issue? Do you think it was a red card?

Please feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Big Guns Draw Each Other In Last 16

Manchester United drew Spanish giants Real Madrid today in the last 16 of the Champions League. With the prospect of Cristiano Ronaldo going back to his old stomping ground, anticipation between both sets of fans is unbearable.

Although a fixture more suited for a major final, with Real Madrid being pipped to first position by Borussia Dortmund, a difficult tie was always on the cards for the reigning Spanish champions.

Other ties include AC Milan v Barcelona and Bayern Munich versus a very inconsistent Arsenal side. Without making predictions too early, I see Barcelona and Bayern making a rather easy progression through to the semi final stage.

So as Cristiano Ronaldo tucks himself in to bed tonight, I'm sure his dreams will consist of a goal at the Theatre of Dreams but more importantly a win for his side.

What are your predictions for any of the fixtures mentioned? How do you think Ronaldo will feel about the whole occasion?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Toss Of A Coin Overshadows Epic Encounter

As Rio Ferdinand got suited up for the X Factor final, just a few hours previous, he was wiping the blood from his eye as a crazed Manchester City fan threw a coin as he saw his side lose out to local rivals Manchester United.

It was an enthralling match, especially the second half as City had to overturn a two goal deficit. Carlos Tevez was yet again the difference for City after a disappointing display by Mario Balotelli.

Just as it looked set for another magical moment from Aguero, van Persie stole the headlines as he slotted home a free kick just outside the penalty area. A deflected shot off a cowardly Samir Nasri, was enough to beat Joe Hart.

As the euphoric United players joined the equally euphoric United fans in celebration, a few City fans decided to take matters in to there own hands and propelled coins in the direction of the United players, one of which hit Rio Ferdinand. Luckily no serious damage was done to Ferdinand's eye.

Although the passion of the fans is what we all like to see, the throwing of missiles such a coins is simply not and a lot will be asked of the FA to improve player protection.

What are your views on this topic? What are our thoughts on the game itself?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

City Crash Out Of Europe

Having been unable to get the result they needed against Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City now have to settle for no midweek football after Ajax claimed third spot. 

Although the caliber of the group was astounding, I feel City would have struggled to beat Burnley, never mind Borussia Dortmund with some of the performances they put in.

As per usual in this Champions League campaign, City really struggled to take the game into their own hands and Dortmund never looked threatened. Carlos Tevez had bright spells and was the stand out player for the Blues with no one else really stepping up to the plate.

Borussia Dortmund, even with a weakened side, looked comfortable and further showed why they are many people's pick to get their hands on the trophy in May 2013.

Man City now turn their attention to Sunday as they face league and local rivals, Manchester United. With the famous 1-6 victory still fresh in the memory of the Eastlands faithful, Kompany and co. look to add more memories come Sunday.

Whats your view on City's Champions League display? Predictions for Sunday's Manchester Derby?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Wenger Adamant Walcott Will Stay

Arsene Wenger has hit out today insisting Theo Walcott will remain at Arsenal despite constant rumors suggesting a move away in January is on the cards. Arsenal take the risk of selling Walcott, 23, for nothing in the summer as his contract is due to run out.

Contract talks have been held up, leaving, I could imagine, many Arsenal fans worried. Although rather inconsistent for me, he is a threat on any given day if he just puts his head down and gets the bounce of the ball.

Reports suggest though that Walcott had rejected a 5 year deal worth £75,000 a week. Walcott is believed to rest his future on whether or not he plays in a striking role.

I think Arsenal should do just about anything to keep Walcott as long as its within reason. I say this because it's obvious he's improving technically as a footballer and if you add that to the bundles of pace he has the results are frightening.

So what do you think? Is Walcott making a bigger hassle than he's actually worth?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.

Messi Still 'Hurt' Over Penalty Miss

Lionel Messi has today admitted he is still hurt over his penalty miss over Chelsea in April which sent Spanish giants Barcelona crashing out of the Champions League. 

Although, due to away goals, Barcelona would still have been knocked out, it was because of Messi's miss that Barcelona were scrambling to get the ball in the net with minutes to go leaving Torres with acres of space to put the ball past Victor Valdes.

Last season was a poor one by Barcelona standards as fans have become accustomed to seeing their side win countless trophies and scoring goals for fun. But with Real Madrid getting the better of them in the league, their Copa del Rey victory was the only reward to show for their efforts.

Lionel Messi though has said that he 'hopes we can get back to winning ways' and with the introduction of some new quality players such as Jordi Alba who impressed at this Summer's European Championships, there is no reason the Nou Camp faithful won't see the likes of Messi and his team mates lifting up silverware come the end of next season.

So do you think Barcelona will come back stronger or will Real Madrid just have too much for them?

Feel free to leave any comments you may have.