SBNation.com User Blog: Shehryar Khan

FC Barcelona's Faltering Tactics: May the Next Carles Puyol Please Stand Up!

Shehryar Khan — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 23:32:20 -0000

FC Barcelona’s Champions League title defense started in the worst possible fashion at CampNou as they found themselves a goal down within a minute after kickoff and then squandered a 2-1 lead in the final minutes of the game.

Alexandre Pato managed to out maneuver the make-shift center-backs, Sergio Busquets and Javier Mascherano, dashing into Barcelona’s half and putting the ball to the back of the net after just 24 seconds, one of the fastest goals ever recorded in UEFA Champions League history.

Barcelona failed to cope with the pace of the lanky Brazilian, who often out paced both Busquets and Mascherano with his bursting runs, exposing the susceptible defense within the first half hour.

Injuries to both regular center-backs Pique and Puyol means Barcelona have no depth at all at the back, which could lead to their undoing this season if reinforcements are not bought in time.

Carles Puyol did make his return after several months on the sidelines as a second half substitute, but failed to show the form he displayed last season, and the confidence just didn’t seem to be there. He was rash at times, and seemed to lack full fitness.

During pre-season, it was debated that Barcelona needed to strengthen their defensive options. Lets face it, the stalwart of Barcelona’s back four, Carles Puyol, will not be playing every week, Eric Abidal isn’t getting any younger, and the burden is definitely going to fall on Pique, who is sidelined with injury at the moment. Pique seems to be a better player when Puyol is around, and does at times struggle with makeshift partners at the back. Mascherano is susceptible with lack of pace, while Busquets seems to have no clue at the back. The answer to Barcelona’s problem could be a center-back with the qualities of going forward, and one Mats Hummels seems to fit that bill very well.

At the same time as Barcelona faced Milan, Mats Hummels was in action in Group F as Borussia Dortmund took on Arsenal at the packed Signal Iduna Park.

Hummels has a playing style reminiscent to that of a fit Carles Puyol and might even be a step better than Barcelona’s captain. Hummels is very versatile and his attacking qualities are outstanding. Against Arsenal he withstood the attacks Arsenal forwards and wingers threw at him, and then was the key to instigating Dortmund’s offense. His passes from the back to German sensation Mario Götze were absolutely inch perfect, however, the latter failed to play equally as good passes on that night.

Hummels would be a perfect fit for FC Barcelona and certainly have an instant impact at the club. However, I fail to see how Dortmund would part with their number one defender especially with the Bundesliga side tipped to do well in the Champions League. He might not be a possibility this season. Nevertheless, I think he should be Barcelona’s number one target in next years summer transfer window.

The season has just begun and its hard pointing fingers at Pep Guardiola or Barcelona’s think-tank but its still a point to ponder… Have we missed a trick here?

Visca Barca.

Poll

Carles Puyol might as well be past his very best for all we know, who do you think could fill in his boots?

Mats Hummels (German defender, enough said!)

67 votes

David Luiz (Wears a Carles Puyol's hairstyle )

55 votes

Thiago Silva (If you cant mark him, buy him)

44 votes

Thomas Vermaelen (Love affair with Arsenal should continue)

4 votes

Don't need no one, Fabregas can fit in the CB role

34 votes

204 votes | Poll has closed

Arsenal FC's Arsene Wenger: Double Standards or Plain Hypocrisy?

Shehryar Khan — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 02:37:48 -0000

Arsenal FC’s manager Arsene Wenger has been very vocal of Barcelona’s ‘tapping up’ tactics during the recently concluded transfer saga of Cesc Fabregas, a former La Masia academy protégé and Arsenal’s former captain. Barcelona had tried to lure the player to the club for the past two seasons, and finally succeeded in the just concluded transfer window after both clubs agreed on a transfer fee.

However, the whole episode which lasted almost three seasons was marred by controversy, with Arsene Wenger often levying serious allegations on Barcelona, accusing the club of unsettling their player.

The English tabloids added further fuel to the saga, often being adamant of their criticism of FC Barcelona with the Independent, the Sun and the News of the World amongst others publishing numerous articles on how FIFA should fine Barcelona for their relentless tapping up, and how players like Lionel Messi and Xavi Hernandez have no class because of their ‘alleged’ tapping up of Arsenal’s former captain.

However, after losing both Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas, and under pressure from an 8-2 thumping by champions Manchester United, Arsene Wenger sped up his transfer activities, signing five players on deadline day, including Park Chu-Young from AS Monaco.

Park Chu-Young signed for Arsenal after he failed to show up for the second part of his medical with French Ligue 1 champions LOSC Lille Métropole. Park Chu-Young had agreed terms with Lille and both clubs (Lille and AS Monaco) had apparently agreed the deal. However, when Arsenal came knocking at the last minute Chu-Young decided to make a run for London without informing neither Lille nor Monaco.

Lille’s President Michel Seydoux was left fuming at Chu-Young’s behavior and even insisted that such behavior was against the ethics of the club.

"Like Monaco, Lille are baffled, "Everything (about his move) had been agreed. This type of behavior is not acceptable; in any event it doesn't correspond with the spirit here at Lille." About Wenger he added "For someone who’s always preaching about morals, Wenger showed distinct lack of class’.

A very ethical signing, was it Mr. Wenger?

Arsenal are also interested in bring Eden Hazard to the Emirates in January and according to a source at the club, Arsenal would bring the player to the Emirates in January.

Now isn’t that tapping up? Arsene Wenger has previously alleged that all the Cesc talk is upsetting his player and is undermining the performance of his captain. Lille too are in the Champions League this season and I’m sure Hazard’s departure would very much depend on how Lille fare in the UCL. If that’s the case, isn’t the Hazard talk in some way going to affect the player’s performance in the Champions League?

Once again, the English tabloids have failed to address Arsene Wenger’s hypocritical behavior and the bias towards the English clubs is quite prominent here.

If Arsene Wenger thinks that Barcelona unsettled Cesc Fabregas during the last two years, isn’t that exactly what he’s doing with Eden Hazard?

For a man who's team has always lost to bad refereeing errors and 'favoritism' this episode of transfer 'tactics' was around the corner.

Well done Arsene Wenger, you are a true gentleman.

Poll

Do you think Arsene Wenger's signing of Chu-Young was unethical?

Yes

23 votes

No

55 votes

Don't follow Arsenal

3 votes

81 votes | Poll has closed

Cesc Fabregas, Thiago Alcantara and Alexis Sanchez... FC Barcelona's Three Musketeers

Shehryar Khan — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 21:30:45 -0000

FC Barcelona’s La Liga campaign started with an emphatic 5-nil victory over Villarreal on Monday with usual suspect Lionel Messi once again on the score-sheet along with this season’s new recruits Cesc Fabregas and Alexis Sanchez, and La Masia’s latest sensation Thiago Alcantara.

A lot was talked about Barcelona’s transfer policies during the summer transfer window (which ended last night) and the acquisition of future €29 million bench-warmer Cesc Fabregas. Alas, how has that proved to be wrong!

It was always going to be a tough task convincing critics that the transfer of Cesc would be a prominent move and not just an obsession, and hats off to Pep Guardiola, the man who can do nothing wrong at the moment, for giving Cesc a starting berth in which he impressed tremendously. Bringing in new recruits in a team with so much talent was never going to be easy and picking the right players for a team that wins almost everything that’s thrown their way is always a tough task.

Barcelona 5-0 Villareal All Goals Highlights 29/08/2011 (via gab3ler)

It was a perfect debut for the former Arsenal captain, scoring at the stroke of half time after making a run forward into the box and Lionel Messi made no mistake finding him with a near perfect through pass which Cesc had no problems putting in the back of the net. Fabregas’ has announced himself to the league, and all credit to Pep for bringing back the La Masia protégé and long-term replacement for Xavi Hernandez back to the club. Xavi has been phenomenal for Barcelona for the past few seasons, and would make anyone’s dream team. But age is likely to catch up with the midfield general and playing every game of the season week in week out would be too tough a task even for him. What Pep has done is he has brought Xavi’s likely replacement a good two years in advance, and would give him enough playing time to cement his place in the side before Xavi hangs up his boots. Cesc is likely to play in different positions this season, and we will probably even see him alongside Xavi a lot more than initially expected. Cesc Fabregas himself has said that he is here to play side by side with Xavi and not replace him, and that is exactly what we’re likely to see as the season moves on.

What has also featured prominently in news and blogs is the future of young prospect Thiago Alcantara. His performance on Monday night speaks volumes of his ability to break defenses and the trust Pep has in the young Spaniard. Pep had emphasized that Thiago is not for sale and would not feature in any potential exchange/swap deals and now we know how serious he really was.

Thiago started at right centre in midfield in a star-studded Barcelona midfield line-up (minus Xavi) and still managed to outshine his seniors with a brilliant performance. He scored the first goal of the season for Barcelona and then set up Lionel Messi for the fifth goal. His vision was magical and ball-control reminiscent to Xavi’s. This performance of his follows his brilliant form during the U-21 European Championship with Spain and the pre-season campaign with Barcelona. He was voted to the team of the tournament in Denmark and managed to score a handful of goals for the Catalan side. Thiago has proved to be the true product of La Masia, and can claim a midfield position in Barca color’s sooner rather than later.

Alexis Sanchez might not be quite familiar with some football rules, (taking off your shirt is a yellow card mate!) but his greatness cannot be denied. Although he scored a goal in his debut game for Barcelona, the best is yet to come from this talented Chilean. The heart-pounding dribbles, running in at defenders, and the kind of game-play that had Serie A sides in awe, tempted Pep Guardiola to come knocking.

Alexis Sanchez also brings to the table a sort of a Plan B, a different approach and tactic, something that failed miserably with Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Although I believe that Pep would like to gel him in with the rest of the squad and adjust him to the quick one-two’s, he is more suited at the latter stages of the game when the opposition is tired with the constant pressing game that Barcelona deploys. He would be able to open-up defenses with his quick feet, tantalizing weary defenders. It reminds me of the Champions League semi-final second leg clash against Mourn-inho’s Inter Milan where Barcelona failed to open up their stubborn defense with their quick passing. A player like Sanchez would have come in handy at the time, running hard at defenders, catching them out off position and would have had helped create gaps for Barcelona to exploit.

Barcelona are well equipped to defend their title this season and the likes of Cesc, Thiago and Alexis will give players a much needed rest between games. Real Madrid has had a busy transfer summer themselves and would come in much stronger than they did last year (already evident in the Spanish Super Cup) and given that Barcelona are likely to play a lot of games again this season, they would need all the legs available to help them stay stop-notch until the end of the season.

Poll

Do you think Thiago can find a starting berth in key games this season?

Yes

24 votes

No

7 votes

Not sure

7 votes

38 votes | Poll has closed

UEFA Super Cup: FC Porto minus Villas-Boas is still a worthy opponent for FC Barcelona

Shehryar Khan — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 23:38:45 -0000

FC Barcelona and Cesc Fabregas can make it three out of three when they face Jose Mourinho’s former club FC Porto in the UEFA Super Cup clash in Monaco on Friday.

FC Porto had a brilliant season under manager Andre Villas-Boas last season, winning the treble consisting of the Portuguese Liga, Portuguese Cup and the UEFA Europa League. They won an astonishing 49 games with only four losses in total. Much of the credit goes to then-chief Villas-Boas (now at Chelsea) whose attacking flair and pressing game, reminiscent to that of FC Barcelona, helped Porto to triumph in a season that saw all Portuguese clubs do well in Europe.

Now, however, Vitor Pereira, the second in command at Porto and Villas-Boas' assistant last season, has got the chance to make his presence felt. He was quickly named successor to fill the void AVB left when the latter moved to Chelsea. Having managed with the "Next Special One" for one year, he will probably stay true the same attacking philosophy the Dragões showcased last season when his side meet the European Champions in the UEFA Super Cup. The occasion would also mark his first major test, and he would do his best not to disappoint.

The bulk of the scoring duties will arguably fall on Hulk after his strike partner’s Falcao’s exit to Atletico Madrid. The South American duo scored an astonishing 75 goals in between them over the course of last year’s campaign. It would be a major challenge for Vitor Pereira to replicate that kind of performance without his star striker from last season.

Falcao’s position is most likely to be taken by Silvestre Varela, who has played a considerable part in the team’s accumulations of trophies. Porto is also likely to field Djalma and Kleber at some point in Friday’s game. Djalma is a right winger signed from CD Maritimo whereas Kleber is a natural center-forward snapped up from Brazilian outfit Clube Atletico Meneiro after impressive performances in the Brazilian league.

Hulk - F.C. Porto - Just Incredible 2011 | FULL HD (via DoSantosProduction)

Except for Falcao and Ruben Michel, Porto have been able to keep hold of their other star players such as Freddy Guarin, Joao Moutinho, Alvaro Pereira, Jorge Fucile and Rolando. In addition they have signed some interesting young prospects such as Juan Iturbe, Alex Sandro and Danilo which would make them a very difficult opponent to beat.

FC Barcelona’s confidence will be sky high after beating bitter-rivals Real Madrid to lift the Spanish Super Cup and tearing apart Italian outfit SSC Napoli to win the Gamper Trophy. But taking FC Porto lightly could be a costly mistake.

Real Madrid have been a familiar foe for Barcelona but in Porto they encounter a side that likes to venture forward, attacks from the wings and doesn’t compromise its own philosophy, even when facing a big European side. With Carles Puyol still out due to injury and Pique picking up a knock it would be interesting to see how Barcelona’s back-four (or three) perform against a side worthy enough to beat the European Champions at their own game.

Poll

Is FC Barcelona's defense a major concern without Pique and Puyol?

No we've got enough back-up to take care of that

3 votes

FC Porto's attack lacks quality without Falcao to bother us

1 votes

Barcelona needs to be at the top of their game to cut out Porto's threat

9 votes

Barcelona will win nevertheless

8 votes

21 votes | Poll has closed

El Clasico: London riots hit Camp Nou as Fabregas debuts against Stoke City in disguise!

Shehryar Khan — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:36:34 -0000

The Clasico for once were classics were the words of the commentator as Barcelona lifted their first trophy of the season, the score-line however, reflected a stark reality of the eventualities of the day.

In a game where Real Madrid seemed much more compact and catching up much quicker to Barcelona than it was anticipated earlier, the two sides ignited off in the second half, with usual suspects Marcelo and Pepe living up their reputation as ‘hard-line’ defenders, if I may call it.

Real Madrid did a much better job pressurizing Barcelona in the early stages of the game, coming close on more than one occasion before Lionel Messi’s brilliant through-pass to Iniesta settled the early nerves for the Catalan side. Real hit back with Ronaldo before, Messi scored to put Barcelona 2-1 ahead at half time.

The second half was less eventful game-play wise before 30 million odd signing Cesc Fabregas stepped in at the 83^rd minute.

Fabregas plays Stoke City disguised as Real Madrid

The Cesc Fabregas week continued at Camp Nou as Fabregas made a cameo appearance, playing a couple of cute passes, and then contributing to the build-up of Barcelona’s third goal when it looked like the game was headed for extra-time after a lapse in defense gave Real Madrid the equalizer.

The match turned on its head in the dying moments of injury time when Marcelo went into Fabregas with two legs, scissor cutting Barcelona’s latest recruit’s legs, enticing the Barcelona bench to jump up, followed by minor tangles and skirmishes all over the pitch.

For Fabregas, it was a nice home coming, lifting a trophy in his very first game in Barcelona’s colors. Real Madrid, were welcoming too, reminding him of his makeshift home in London with a couple of ‘Stoke City-ish’ kind of tackles, which incited the ‘rioting’ in the first place.

Barcelona's players by now might have got used to Real Madrid's Mourinho version of winning at all costs, but for Fabregas it was a tough day at the office, a classic Andy Gray's 'Stoke City on a cold night' version of Real Madrid that he witnessed the 7 odd minutes plus injury time he was out there on the pitch.

Uncle Mourinho says hello his own way

Reserve keeper Pinto once again played an active part in the ‘brawl’, as Jose Mourinho cheekily walked over, pinched one of the members of Barcelona's bench, and walked off back to his dugout, as calmly as it can be done. Of-course, in Mourinho's eyes, it was just a 'I forgot to say hello' approach, and it would be nice to see what he makes of it, if he decides to break his silence.

[HD] Mourinho Pinches Villanova - Super Copa Final 2011 (via EdwinTV42)

Can Pep's decision of not buying a center-back haunt us?

Barcelona’s defense for once lacked discipline making stupid mistakes, gave the ball in dangerous areas which could have proved costly. Barcelona looked perturbed at the back and without captain caveman Carles Puyol ordering his troops around; it really would be interesting to see if Barcelona can end the season with the same kind of success they earned last year.

Barcelona were also vulnerable at corners, being tad untidy and unable to clear the ball, which eventually cost them when Adriano’s poor clearance helped Real Madrid equalize.

Pep Guardiola’s decision of not going for a center-back might as well come to haunt him, and although Mascherano played well in his make-shift position, it would be interesting to see the fitness level of Puyol when he returns and if Barcelona can adapt to life without a recognized quality defender in the latter stages of La Liga and the Champions league.

El Clasico Super Cup Special: Spanish Civil War, Alfredo Di Stefano and Two Contrasting Cultures

Shehryar Khan — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 01:31:53 -0000

A new season dawns, and just as the dust settles in, we're back on course with yet another Clasico, this time in the shape of the Super Cup, a two legged affair between last year's Copa Del Rey holders Real Madrid and La Liga champions FC Barcelona.

Last year we had it all; Drama, Chaos, Tension, rash challenges and to top it all up Real Madrid had Jose Mourinho as their manager, someone who manages to escalate tempers within the Barcelona ranks with real ease.

Real Madrid Vs Fc Barcelona 1-1 All Goals Highlights - El Classico 2011-04-16

The history between the two sides however goes well beyond this era.

The rivalry intensified during the Spanish Civil War, during the mid-1930s when Spanish regime led by General Francisco Franco was running havoc on the nation.

Real Madrid, represented the Spanish State manifesto and the Spanish culture of Franciso Franco's Nationalist state whereas FC Barcelona was the face of Catalonia, the north east of Spain, with a distinctive and contrasting culture striving for an independent sovereignty.

Football back in the day was a major influence on the people of Spain, and hence the two clubs became a symbol of republicanism and federalism for the supporters of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona.

In 1953, the tensions were fueled up by a young Argentine by the name of Alfredo Di Stefano, who later went on to become a legend at Real Madrid, and disputed by many as the greatest footballer ever.

Football's Greats : Alfredo Di Stefano

Alfredo Stefano, at the time was playing in Colombia on loan from Argentine Club River Plate when he was spotted by the two clubs.

Tough negotiations took place between the representatives of the two countries involved, after which FIFA sanctioned the transfer to FC Barcelona. That again started a dispute, after which it was decided that the player would play alternate seasons for both clubs.

FC Barcelona, later on went on to back out of the deal, a decision that allegedly was influenced by politics within the country at the time.

More recently, the transfer of Luis Figo added to the bad blood between the two. Catalan supporters branded him a traitor, and he was welcomed with the head of a pig, hurled with golf balls and bottles upon his return to Camp Nou.

Figo can't take corner kick vs Barcelona Hostile Crowd

As history has suggested repeatedly, these two footballing giants would once again lock their horns for yet another explosive show-down this weekend.

Spanish Super Cup Head to Head Record

Real Madrid wins 5, Barcelona wins 2, Draws 1, Total matches 8

FC Barcelona Transfers: £40 million for Arsenal FC's Cesc Fabregas? Thanks, but no thanks.

Shehryar Khan — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 01:11:12 -0000

There are two sides to every story but the Cesc Fabregas transfer saga has everything you would ask for, Arsene Wenger’s love for his talisman, Pep’s over enthusiasm to sign the former Barcelona prodigy, Cesc’s tightlipped-ness over the whole saga as it drags into August and then what an economist would call the ‘opportunity cost’ of that £40 million quid required to acquire Fabregas’ services.

From the outset, there were indications that Pep Guardiola would go all guns blazing to get his man this season, whereas Arsene Wenger is doing all in his power to make sure that doesn't happen and has succeeded in doing so till now, but the question is ‘Can Barcelona afford to pay £40 million for him?’.. and 'Do they really want him'?

For starters, let us take up the case of Thiago Alcantara. The young midfielder has really come into his own during pre-season and has shown great promise, and composure, something reminiscent of the great Xavi, who not to forget is going to be the anchorman for Barcelona once again next season.

So spending 40 million quid for Cesc Fabregas seems a little odd and seems more like a luxury Barcelona can ill afford at this time especially when Xavi all set to take up his regular position and Thiago doing the stand-by duties.

Barcelona’s main priority this season should have been the need to bolster their defense- and with 3 weeks left, the defense still looks as if it needs a touch up, here and there.

With Gabriel Milito parting ways with the Catalans and Carles Puyol not getting any younger, a decent center-back is certainly be the need of the hour. At the moment, Pique is the only mainstay at the back and the make shift defense in last week’s 4-1 mauling should prove to be an eye-opener.

Barcelona’s La Masia products Marc Muniesa, Marc Batra and Andreu Fontas are decent defenders but it would be a grave mistake to rely on the youngsters come the Champions League and big league games and more importantly the latter half on the season, the business end as they say.

Dani Alves and Eric Abidal were outstanding last season, but playing them all season long without cover could prove to be fatal.. Get them a decent back-up!

In my opinion, Cesc Fabregas should be left alone for yet another season and major quantity of that 30-35 million quid should be spent on fixing up the defense.

And finally the brighter side of things, oh Alexis you are the man! Wonder signing.

Wembley: The Curse of Johan Cruyff and The Genius of Pep Guardiola Will Haunt Alex Ferguson Again

Shehryar Khan — Wed, 18 May 2011 00:07:59 -0000

Successful football managers tend to be obsessive, perfectionist workaholics- words that dwell in well with the characteristic of Pep Guardiola.

Barcelona's semi-final encounter against Real Madrid show-cased a very different Barcelona side, a side that was ready to do what the opposition did without altering their attacking finesse. On the eve of the Champions League final at Wembley a lot of people would question as to what Barcelona side would turn up...

And the answer to that is Johan Cruyff's side of the 80s... under the management and leadership of Pep Guardiola- the pupil of the total football philosophy.

In 1992 European Cup Final, Cruyff preferred a 3-4-3 and needed a strong midfield rich in talent. Bakero, Eusebio, Guardiola and Koeman were the men who made it possible. In 2011, Guardiola would bask on Iniesta, Xavi and Busquets to do the job.

The attacking philosophy has not changed but the style has to some extent. This Barcelona side can attack with seven players, Iniesta and Xavi threaten to run deep into the box and full-backs attack as wingers.

Alex Ferguson has a problem to solve, and one of those problems would be as to how to control the midfield.

Do Manchester United have the legs to compete with Barcelona for 90 minutes? Can Michael Carrick and Ryan Giggs be influential in the park, can they keep the ball long enough to create opportunities for Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez?..

In Rome, he played into Barcelona's hand, at Wembley would be turn things around?

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FC Barcelona's Transfers: Muller would be the perfect fit in Barcelona's Line-up

Shehryar Khan — Sat, 07 May 2011 22:59:27 -0000

Alright, it's still a little early to discuss Barcelona's activities in the transfer market but I still thought I'll get my thought across.

This season has been a successful one for Barcelona, and even if we end up losing to United, I still think two finals and the league title is a great achievement.

Barcelona's priorities going into the summer transfer window would be a center-back, someone who could cover for Carlos Puyol, and a left-back. Having said that, an attacking option in midfield would not be a bad idea.

One such option would be Bayern Munich's Thomas Muller. The Golden Boot winner at the World Cup Finals is an immense talent, able to do what Riquelme used to do in his Argentina days. Find killer passes, daft touches and has also got the ability to score!

He was officially presented with the Hyundai Best Young Player at a ceremony held in Munich, Germany for his performance at the World Cup.

Müller can play as a midfielder or forward, and has been deployed in a variety of attacking roles – as an attacking midfielder, second striker, and on either wing. He has been praised for his pace, technique and composure, and has shown consistency in both scoring and creating goals.

David Villa, one of our expensive buys can exchange positions with Iniesta. Iniesta, I believe plays well when deployed on the wings, and Muller can then be slotted in midfield.

Barcelona do not have a lot of strength when it comes to attacking options. If two first team players get injured, Barcelona would struggle replacing them. Muller can replace Xavi, Iniesta, and even operate on the right wing with Messi.

Whether or not Barcelona bid for him in the summer is another matter, but I reckon he is one of the greats in his position at the moment and his game play would suit Barcelona.

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El Clasico, Real Madrid Vs. FC Barcelona: The Rule suggests Pepe was rightfully red-carded and Jose Mourinho needs to revisit school!

Shehryar Khan — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 10:21:45 -0000

The greatest rivalry of football between the two sporting giants of Real Madrid and Barcelona depicted yet another picture of ugly football as Real Madrid all but handed Barcelona a ticket to the Champions League final at Wembley.

A stark contrast of the Barcelona side we're so used to seeing, the match oozed with anger, controversies and mini-duels the players carried forward from previous encounters between the two sides.

Jose Mourinho has come out all guns blazing attacking the Barcelona coach, the players and UEFA of unfair play against his side, which all instigated to a certain reckless challenge made by Pepe, who does have a history of reds and misconducts to his name.

The footballing law that governs the act falls under Law 12 of the basic category of 'fouls and misconduct' as is further sub categorized into 'careless, reckless, using excessive force'..

“Reckless” means that the player has acted with complete disregard to the danger to, or consequences for, his opponent. A player who plays in a reckless manner must be cautioned.

“Using excessive force” means that the player has far exceeded the necessary use of force and is in danger of injuring his opponent.. A player who uses excessive force must be sent off.

Jose Mourinho believes that Pepe did nothing wrong and his side were once again deprived of a chance to beat Barcelona but according to the rules, I am pretty confident that the referee was right in sending off Pepe; there is enough evidence that suggests thatexcessive force was used. Pepe took 3-4 steps before launching himself into Dani Alves and it is of no relevance whether Dani Alves was injured or not, the rule states that a player found guilty of using excessive force must be sent off.

Jose Mourinho also stated in his match conference that his team would be without a coach at the Camp Nou, but if you think that you can be arrogant and chant 'well done' several times to the referee and still deserve to be on the touchline, then I'm afraid you need to revisit your football school to learn some footballing etiquettes.

As a Barcelona supporter, no one would approve the behavior of Busquets and Pedro but as the saying goes.. When in Rome, do what the Romans do..

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Poll

Do you think Jose Mourinho is right in condemning UEFA for Barcelona's win?

Yes

33 votes

No

88 votes

121 votes | Poll has closed

El Clasico FC Barcelona vs. Real Madrid: Jose Mourinho's long-ball tactics and counter-effective strategies

Shehryar Khan — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 21:30:50 -0000

Take two of the Real Madrid Barcelona showdown and we’re in for another night of entertaining football come Wednesday. Just for the record, Barcelona's starting lineup on Saturday cost 85 million Euro in transfer fees whereas Madrid's starting lineup cost 290 million Euro.

The two things that we saw Mourinho imply on Saturday was the long-ball tactics and the positioning of Pepe as defensive midfielder, both being very successful.

The long-ball tactic is something Jose Mourinho used during his days at Chelsea. It’s basically providing long balls to the striker in this case it being Benzema who then holds up the ball for the on coming midfielder (Özil, most likely) and the fullbacks (Marcelo). Ronaldo will operate on either wings, glimpses of which we saw in the first game and will motion through cutting for space to edge into the final third and into the box.

For Real this is a good option because it readily cuts the danger of the ball being intercepted by Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets in the heavily disposed midfield and works out as a perfect counter-strategy approach.

For Barcelona the danger here is that when on the offense, Barcelona’s full-backs Adriano and Dani Alves are out of position and the back-line which is quite thin at the moment is vulnerable to attacks.

What Barcelona would need to do in my opinion is to position Xavi and Busquets as cover for the two center-backs when they’re on the attack, to stem out danger of being caught on the counter. Mascherano who is most likely to play in case Puyol isn’t fit would again the susceptible to Real’s attacks and the man has in the past made rash challenges which could cost us dearly.

Another talking point being discussed on many forums is the fact that Barcelona’s 70 odd percent ball possession isn’t worthwhile if they don’t score. The fact people don’t realise here is, ball possession not only helps in creating chances but it also nullifies the opposition’s ability to score; the less of the ball they see, the less chance to score.

Come tomorrow, Barcelona and Real Madrid’s tactics would hugely be crucial and both managers ability to outthink the opponent would be the cornerstone of who progresses to the finals at Wembley.

Forza Barca!

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Poll

Would Real Madrid once again sit back and deploy the long-ball tactics?

Yes

74 votes

No

20 votes

Depends on the situation

21 votes

115 votes | Poll has closed

FC Barcelona vs. Real Madrid The Clasico Mindset: Can Jose Mourinho Outsmart Pep Guardiola?

Shehryar Khan — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 12:10:32 -0000

The first leg of the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League has ended, with three teams almost but certainly heading for the semi-finals; and yes, a Clasico is on the cards!

Before we can really start talking about a possibility of a Spanish duel, Barcelona has to tackle the tricky Ukrainians at Donetsk. They are likely to give Barcelona a tough time but a 5-1 demolition certainly seals the deal for Barcelona.

On the other hand, Jose Mourinho leads his side to

White Hart Lane with one foot in the semi-finals. Before the first leg, Mourinho said he was happy if his side could come out with a nil nil draw… and overcoming 4 goals against a Mourinho side seems near to impossible!

Jose Mourinho has never won against Barcelona at Camp Nou. But he's had the prestige of knocking Barcelona out of the Champions League with both Chelsea and Inter Milan. Having said that, we all know about Jose Mourinho—a class act—and the UEFA Champions League is his stage.

Real Madrid's star-studded lineup, however, depicts a different challenge altogether.

First, Barcelona knows Real Madrid inside out. They have played just once against Real Madrid this season, but being in the same league gives them the opportunity to scrutinize their title challengers more closely.

Secondly, Jose Mourinho does not have the same luxury that he had with Inter: a keeper on top of his game, Maicon and Cambiasso. To beat this Barcelona side, Mourinho cannot rely on this side to defend for 90 minutes and hit on the break when an opportunity arises. He does not have aSamuel Eto'o, who's equally good with his defensive qualities.

Barcelona, however, do not have a Plan B. This was something Mourinho exploited in the Champions League with Inter last season and can again use to his advantage. Cut the passes, pack the midfield and Barcelona have nowhere to go.

Mourinho's strength and fame lies in his ability to foresee the opposition's tactics and plan accordingly. His triumph with FC Porto was no fluke and his second Champions League win came after defeating the three champions, Chelsea, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

Calling the odds on this one would be tricky...and we might actually see different tactics employed by both managers. The winner, of course, goes to London, Pep's favorite destination.

Forza Barca!

Join Barca Blaugranes and become members of our website. You can find us on Facebook and Twitter. You can follow me @shehryarkhan7

Poll

Can Jose Mourinho outsmart Pep Guardiola once more?

Yes

131 votes

No

98 votes

229 votes | Poll has closed

Why Eight FC Barcelona players need to play in the Premier League

Shehryar Khan — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 06:26:38 -0000

FC Barcelona fan's who take their football seriously are strongly advised to stop reading this article any further. Similarly, all English fans who envy the club are also advised to look away. This is a light-hearted piece and is not at anyway aimed at disrespecting any club or manager.

There are a lot of debates/discussions/arguments that are flooding over the internet and I've got strong reasons as to why we need to let some of our players go.

Lionel Messi: Brilliance is in abundance for this little man, but he is still the second best behind Christiano Ronaldo. Reason? Well Ronaldo has been successful in the Premier League and if you have to be the best in the business you HAVE to play in the Premier League. Any club fancy taking on Lionel Messi on loan?

Carlos Puyol: Barcelona's captain had been in emphatic form before the injury that has forced him out of the latter stages of the season. His hairstyle, however is kind of out of sorts. Newcastle would love to take the player on, the Geordie's have a number of players with that crazy tacky hairstyle. David Luiz' transfer to London should be a hint big enough.

Victor Valdes: The new 'Joker' was the remark I heard when he let Van Persie's strike in from a difficult angle in the UEFA Champions League encounter against Arsenal. We all know where 'Jokers' belong though don't we? Yes, the Emirates.

Gerard Pique: He loves his girlfriend doesn't he? The folks at Madrid have somewhat abandoned Shakira's music because of her ties with the Barcelona star. Be a good lad and move to England mate, save her career!

Thiago Alcantara: The next in line after Xavi hangs up his boots. But if he's looking for a mum and dad away from home, Arsene Wenger welcomes you with open arms!

Andres Iniesta: The man is a hate figure in London! The Chelsea fans' absolutely hate him! Payback time perhaps? Fancy a move?

Mascherano: Ship him back to Anfield under the banner 'damaged goods'..

Dani Alves: Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has promised Dani Alves a handsome pay and his daughter's hand if he comes to Manchester.. Convinced yet mate?

Thank you for reading.

Forza Barca!

Join Barca Blaugranes and become members of our website. You can find us on Facebook and Twitter. You can also follow me @shehryarkhan7