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With just a few games left to play, we’re approaching the business end of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign. And while there’s still some jostling left for the European places (and the less glamorous fight for 17th), most of the big storylines have already been written. What a strange & chaotic season it’s been. Let’s not waste any time here are, in my view, the main stories that have defined this season in the English top-flight.  Champions When Nobody Saw It Coming   Let’s be honest: not a soul outside of Merseyside had Liverpool pegged as title winners this year. Post-Klopp transition, new manager Arne Slot came in with questions around his tactical pedigree and how he’d manage the big personalities in the squad. What followed was a campaign of grit, energy, and, dare I say, old-school Liverpool relentlessness. While the style changed, the essence of Liverpool stayed the same. Mo Salah reminded us all that he’s not finished yet. Key players stayed fit, the defence tightened up, and the Anfield fortress was restored. Not everything was pretty, but they found ways to win. They ground out results when it mattered most. While the likes of Arsenal and City stumbled, the Reds surged. And now they’re champions again. It might not have been vintage Liverpool, but it was effective. Nobody saw it coming. And that’s exactly what makes it brilliant. Same Script, Same Ending   Arsenal were supposed to take that next step. After pushing City hard last season, the hope (and maybe expectation) was that they’d finally get over the hump. In truth, they never really got going this season. The defence has been top-tier once again and injuries didn’t help their cause, but they remained just close enough. But then came the familiar drop-off. They didn’t collapse in dramatic fashion, but the momentum quietly fizzled out. A draw here, a poor performance there and suddenly Liverpool had pulled away. What stings most is that this was arguably their best chance. City were vulnerable and this was their opportunity to capitalise. Fans will point to injuries being an important factor in them being left behind, but for me, that’s not a good enough excuse. It is just like Patrice Evra said, Arsenal are watching a Netflix show: you’re always waiting for the next season. The Empire Falters   No one's going to cry for Manchester City, but this has undeniably been their weakest league campaign under Pep. The signs were there early on; sluggish starts, laboured wins, and an overreliance on moments of individual brilliance. Rodri missing essentially all the season didn’t help, nor did an aging squad that started to run out of legs. Defensively, City have looked oddly vulnerable. Even the normally bulletproof Ruben Dias hasn’t been at his best. There’s also been a sense that Pep himself might be tiring, his rotations have been more erratic, his press conferences slightly spikier, his touchline outbursts more frequent. For a club that’s redefined domestic dominance, finishing third (or worse) feels seismic. Of course, City aren’t going anywhere. They’ll spend big in the summer and come back swinging. But for now, the aura of invincibility has faded and that alone is worth noting. Big Six No More?   We’ve been talking about it for a while, but this might be the season where we can say the traditional “big six” is no more. Newcastle & Aston Villa have continued to disrupt the big powerhouses. We’ve seen Forest now come into the mix for the European places.  Even Brighton have continued to rise, all while some of the traditional powers are in shambles (we’ll get to United and Spurs in a bit). It used to be that the same six teams would rotate the top six places. Not anymore. It shows that the gap is closing between yesteryear’s big guns and the ones that who want a seat at the table. There are now 8–10 clubs with legitimate ambitions of qualifying for Europe. That can only be a good thing, unless you’re one of the former big six, in which case, it’s an identity crisis in real time. Domestic Duds, European Dreams   Let’s lump these two together because, frankly, they’ve both been massive disappointments. Spurs made a decent start to the season, but it’s been a hard watch as the campaign has progressed. They’ve dropped too many silly points, and any hype has well and truly dissipated. To lose nineteen games already and the season isn’t even finished, that’s shambolic. United? Another joke of a season. Managerial changes have ensued, but things domestically have gotten worse. Any positive results have been due to individual talent bailing them out, but that’s no way to run a football team. And yet, both clubs still have a shot at European silverware. Both are in the Europa League semis and are on course to meet in the final. Winning a continental trophy won’t erase the league failures, but it would offer a silver lining and salvage what have been terrible seasons. The Yo-Yo Curse Continues   Just as we saw in 2023/2024, all three promoted clubs have suffered an immediate drop back to the Championship. Are we surprised? Not really. Southampton have a real claim to be one of the worst Premier League teams in history, just tragic across the board. Leicester have also been so bad, not showing at any time that they would survive. Whilst Ipswich were the most competitive out of the three, it was always going to be a struggle after back-to-back promotions. It shows that now more than ever, the gap between the Premier League and Championship is getting bigger and bigger. It’s a problem that the Premier League needs to address, as no fan wants to see the same teams chopping and changing between the top-flight and the second division. It’s not as simple as these promoted clubs spending more money to become Premier League ready, there needs to be a balance. This Week’s Hot Take   We keep hearing that the Premier League is the “best league in the world.” But maybe it’s just the most chaotic. You’ve got dominant teams crumbling, new powers rising, and the old guard flailing in the wind. That’s not a complaint—it’s brilliant entertainment. But maybe we should stop pretending there’s any kind of structure or order to this league. The only rule seems to be expect the unexpected.

Here we are, mid-April, and we’re supposed to be in the thick of it: the title race heating up, the relegation scrap turning ugly, and everyone clutching their calculators to figure out how many points they need for European qualification. Except, that’s not really the case this year, is it? The 2024/25 Premier League season has been, in my opinion, one of the worst we’ve seen in a long time. A forgettable campaign full of limp storylines & underwhelming performances. There’s always something to talk about in the Premier League, but for once, it feels like we’re scraping the barrel. So, let’s break it down. A Title Race in Name Only   The most exciting part of this season’s title race? Probably the brief spell in September when it looked like Arsenal, City, and even Chelsea might mount a real challenge. That hope evaporated quicker than a Spurs top-four charge. In reality, Liverpool have coasted their way to the top. Yes, they’ve been good—but not vintage Klopp-era good. The truth is, they haven’t had to be. The competition has been so underwhelming that just being vaguely competent was enough to pull clear.   City never quite found their usual rhythm. Pep’s lot looked tired, flat, and occasionally disinterested—like they knew they were in third gear and couldn’t be bothered to shift up. Arsenal promised a lot, but once again, fell short when it really mattered. Chelsea had a short-lived revival before returning to their natural state of chaos. And that’s it. That’s the race.   Even Liverpool’s win feels muted. The farewell narrative for Klopp should’ve added more emotional weight, but there’s been a weird sense of indifference around their success. It’s not their fault, but it says a lot when one of English football’s biggest stories feels like background noise. No real jeopardy. No memorable head-to-head clashes. Just a slow, predictable march to the finish. A European Chase with No Real Bite   On paper, the race for European places should be fun. Tight margins, surprise packages, and the prospect of Thursday nights in Latvia for someone unexpected. But for some reason, it just hasn’t gripped me—or, seemingly, anyone else. Sure, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest being in the mix adds a fresh twist, but it doesn’t feel like a proper race. It feels like a bunch of teams stumbling towards a finish line they didn’t realise was there.   Part of the problem is that the usual contenders have been so inconsistent that their failures no longer shock us. Spurs have regressed badly since the turn of the year. United are barely functional. And Chelsea, as always, are flirting with disaster and overperforming it in equal measure. So instead, we’ve got teams like Aston Villa and West Ham sitting quietly in the top seven without ever threatening to light up the league.   There’s also not much jeopardy. The difference between finishing 6th and 9th doesn’t carry the same weight it used to. European football is still on the line, but no one’s really fighting for it like their lives depend on it. And when the stakes don’t feel high, it’s hard to care. This race needs more bite, more chaos, and a bit less mediocrity. A Drop in Quality Across the Board   Let’s not sugarcoat it—the overall standard of football this season hasn’t been great. And it’s not just the bottom clubs. Some of the so-called “elite” teams have been shockingly bad. Manchester United, a team with the wage bill of a Champions League semi-finalist, look more like a Championship mid-table side half the time. Their football has been directionless, their performances abject. It’s no surprise they’re on to another managerial reset already.   Tottenham started brightly, but the injuries and lack of depth caught up with them. What once looked like a promising new project under Ange has quickly unravelled. Chelsea have shown flashes, but for the money they’ve spent, finishing 8th would be laughable if it wasn’t so predictable. Newcastle, too, have gone off the boil, with their Champions League honeymoon long since over.   Then there’s the relegation battle. Or lack thereof. The three promoted teams—Burnley, Luton, and Sheffield United—have offered minimal resistance and look destined to go straight back down. There’s been none of the drama we got from last year’s final-day madness. The league has always relied on its competitiveness, but this season, too many teams have simply not shown up. And when the standard drops this far, the product inevitably suffers. Lower Points, Lower Standards   The points totals this season make for grim reading. At the top, Liverpool may flirt with the 90-point mark, but it’s not been done in dominant fashion. City and Arsenal are well off their usual pace, and everyone else is miles behind. Look further down the table, and you’ll see a bizarre cluster of teams hovering around the low 40s with just weeks to go.   That might sound like a sign of a balanced league—“anyone can beat anyone,” as the cliché goes—but in reality, it’s a symptom of decline. Teams are taking points off each other, yes, but not through brilliance or tactical ingenuity. It’s mostly been through chaotic defending, poor finishing, and a general lack of control. The games are messy. The football is erratic. There’s a difference between competitive and chaotic.   And when clubs that should be aiming for 60+ points are instead languishing in the 40s, you have to wonder what’s gone wrong. It’s hard to think of many teams who’ve consistently impressed over the course of the season. Even Brighton and Brentford, last year’s darlings, have regressed. In the end, a league’s quality is reflected in its numbers—and these numbers aren’t painting a pretty picture. This Week’s Hot Take   If you stripped the badge names and history away and just looked at the football on display this year, you’d probably think this was a glorified Eredivisie season. The football hasn’t been good. The narratives haven’t gripped us. The title race is a procession. The relegation battle is a non-event. Even the race for Europe feels hollow. It’s the Premier League equivalent of a filler episode in your favourite series you’re watching it, but only because you’re committed, not because you’re enjoying it. Next season needs to be better. Not just for the fans, but for the league’s reputation as the global gold standard.

You know what time it is… the next instalment of my top five mini-series. So far, we’ve gone through the traditional back five: goalkeeper, centre-back and both full-backs. Now we move slightly further up the pitch to arguably the most underappreciated role in modern football: the holding midfielder. Whilst these players are more than just defensive midfielders, doing the dirty work, they are now seen as deep-lying playmakers, keeping the game ticking, and making it all look so simply that they barely get the praise they deserve.  So, without further ado, let's dive straight into it. #5 Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool)   When Liverpool signed Gravenberch, I wasn’t entirely convinced. His time at Bayern Munich was underwhelming, and it felt like Liverpool were taking a punt on potential rather than proven quality. Fast forward to today and, well, safe to say they knew what they were doing. Gravenberch has quietly become one of Liverpool’s key operators at the base of their midfield this season. He's got this wonderful combination of composure, dribbling ability, and physicality that makes him so effective both in and out of possession.   He’s press-resistant, deceptively quick, and has that rare ability to glide past players even from deep positions. There’s a real smoothness to his game when he’s on it. You can see echoes of a young Yaya Touré in the way he drives forward. At times, though, he can still drift through games at times, but he’s still young. That’ll come with time. Given his age, his clear improvements, and the way Liverpool are grooming him for a big role, he’s absolutely earned his spot here. Watch this space: he’s only just getting started. #4: Moisés Caicedo (Chelsea)   Caicedo’s record-breaking move to Chelsea brought with it sky-high expectations – and initially, it looked like he had forgotten how to play football entirely. But credit where it’s due, Caicedo has quietly turned things around. As Chelsea have stabilised (well, relatively speaking), so has he. Caicedo is everything you want from a modern holding midfielder: tenacious, brilliant at sniffing out danger, and deceptively progressive with his passing. He's also got that South American grit that you simply can’t teach, the kind that makes opponents' lives miserable.   He covers ground well, breaks up play effectively, and he’s starting to form a better understanding with Enzo Fernández in midfield. The issue? He still looks a little raw at times, especially when the game gets chaotic. His decision-making under pressure isn’t quite elite yet, and occasionally he bites into tackles a little too eagerly. Still, considering the weight of expectation and the sheer madness at Chelsea, the fact Caicedo is finding his feet now bodes really well for the future. Chelsea fans should be quietly excited. #3: Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle)   If Newcastle's midfield is the engine room, then Bruno Guimarães is very much the engine and the oil and the guy turning the ignition key. Quite simply, he makes everything tick. Guimarães has been his usual great self this season, even when Newcastle’s form has been up and down. He's tenacious in the tackle, fearless when flying into challenges, and his passing range is fantastic. Whether it’s a sharp one-two to escape pressure or a raking diagonal ball, he’s got it in his locker.   There’s a sort of chaotic elegance about him; he’s not the most polished player you'll ever see, but his ability to influence games is second to none. Plus, he likes to get under the skin of opponents. Where he sometimes struggles is with discipline – not just in terms of bookings (though he’s good for a yellow every other week), but tactically. He can occasionally get pulled out of position in the heat of the battle and leave gaps behind him. Even so, few players in the Premier League dictate the tempo as naturally and effectively as Guimarães. He’s the beating heart of Newcastle. #2: Declan Rice (Arsenal)   Since making the switch to Arsenal, Rice has looked like he’s been wearing the shirt for his entire career. As complete deep-lying midfielders go, he’s nearly that: physically dominant, tactically intelligent, excellent in possession, and perhaps most importantly, an outstanding leader. Whether it's shielding the back four, carrying the ball through midfield, or pinging passes out to the wings, he does it all at an elite level.   What’s scary is how quickly he’s adapted to Mikel Arteta’s tactical demands. Rice doesn’t just break up attacks; he starts them too. His ability to turn defence into attack in a blink makes him the lynchpin of Arsenal’s setup. If you really wanted to nitpick (and I do love a good nitpick), you could argue that his passing is still a shade below the very, very best in the world. He can keep things ticking over, no problem, but when it comes to those killer vertical balls through the lines, he’s not quite at those elite levels. That said, given how much he’s improving year-on-year, that minor flaw might not exist for much longer. #1: Rodri (City)   I know, Rodri has missed huge chunks of this season. But it’s clear, City without Rodri have looked like Superman without his cape: still powerful, but suddenly very, very mortal. When he plays, Rodri is the ultimate safety blanket. His reading of the game is frankly absurd, he’s calmness personified on the ball, and he controls games with such ease that you sometimes forget he’s even there. That’s the mark of a truly great holding midfielder: making the impossible look routine.   He doesn’t just keep the ball ticking over either. Rodri has become a real goal threat, popping up with crucial strikes when City need them most. His ability to step up in big moments – both defensively and offensively – is second to none. Weaknesses? Honestly, there aren’t many. If you want to really reach, you could say he’s not the quickest over long distances, but it never seems to matter because he reads the game so well. Until someone consistently outperforms him over a full season, Rodri remains the gold standard. City’s drop-off without him tells you everything you need to know. This Week’s Hot Take   Gone are the days where deep-lying midfielders are simply protectors of the backline. Whilst it’s still a crucial part of their job, they need to also be able to connect the defence to the attack. In modern day football if, as a number six, you can’t advance the ball up the field and offer something in the attacking third, you can’t be considered elite in that position.

The Thomas Tuchel era has officially begun. The FA has made the bold (but in my opinion, right) decision. No more safe picks, it’s Thomas Tuchel’s turn to take the wheel. The German tactician, fresh from his Bayern Munich exit, has been handed the keys to arguably the most talented England squad we’ve seen since the “Golden Generation”. The expectations on him are huge, and as we’ve seen in the past, failure to live up to those expectations could cause everything could come crashing down. For this week’s post, I’ve outlined what things he needs to do as the England manager. Win the 2026 World Cup   Yeah, yeah, I know, this is easier said than done. But let’s not pretend anything less will do. England have flirted with success in recent tournaments, but ultimately, they’ve come up short. In hindsight, I may have been overly critical of the job Gareth Southgate as he could England challenging again. But he couldn’t get them over the line. Tuchel has been hired for one reason: to turn this golden generation into actual winners. Tactically, he’s got the chops. His 2021 Champions League triumph with Chelsea showed his ability to craft a tournament-winning side.   The challenge here is different. Club football is a 38-game marathon, whereas international tournaments are a frantic sprint where momentum and mentality matter just as much as tactics. If he can instil the sort of ruthless defensive discipline that won Chelsea the Champions League while harnessing England’s attacking flair (more on that later), then why not? The squad is good as it’s been, the talent is undeniable. Now it’s about making sure history doesn’t repeat itself. More importantly, Tuchel must ensure England don’t just stumble through the tournament but dominate in style. The days of scraping by with cautious football need to be left in the past. This squad is good enough to impose itself on the world stage. Tuchel just has to let them off the leash. Find the Right Balance Between Youth and Experience   England’s squad is currently a mix of youthful exuberance and battle-hardened veterans. The likes of Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka are already among the best in the world, but then you’ve got players like Jordan Henderson still clinging on for dear life. Tuchel needs to strike the right balance, something Gareth Southgate struggled with in his later years. We’ve seen too many tournaments where England managers put too much faith in the old guard. It’s understandable; if those players are tried and tested and have proven their worth to the manager, why wouldn’t you pick them?   The key is finding the right blend between youth and experience. Veterans like Harry Kane and John Stones should be leaned on for leadership, but that shouldn’t come at the expense of fresh, fearless talent breaking through. Tuchel must be ruthless in deciding which experienced heads are still useful and which are just taking up space. A generational shift is inevitable, but it must be handled carefully. Players like Declan Rice, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are in that perfect sweet spot between youthful energy and seasoned quality, whilst England have got a good crop of young players coming through, the likes of Myles Lweis-Skelly, Ethan Nwaneri & Kobbie Mainoo. England’s success in 2026 will depend on getting this balance just right. Get the Best Out of England’s Attacking Talent   On paper, England’s attack is terrifying. Kane, Saka, Foden, Palmer, Bellingham, the list goes on. In reality? It’s often felt like trying to fit a Lamborghini engine into a Fiat 500. The problem has been structure. England’s best players all want to operate in similar spaces, and previous managers have struggled to find a cohesive way to make it work. Tuchel’s system-heavy approach could be the answer. He needs to create a framework where England’s best attacking players can thrive without stepping on each other’s toes. That might mean making some ruthless decisions, like whether Foden plays centrally, from the left, not at all, or whether Bellingham is best as a No.10 or a deeper playmaker.   Tuchel has experience managing world-class attacking units, but international football poses a different challenge, less time on the training ground means the system must be simple yet effective. He also needs to figure out how to break down deep defensive blocks, something England have historically struggled with in major tournaments. If he gets it right, England could be a genuinely unstoppable attacking force. Get it wrong, and we’ll be watching the same old disjointed performances where England look like they’re playing together for the first time. Dominate the Ball Against the Better Teams   England’s biggest flaw in recent tournaments? They can’t control games against elite opposition. Against lesser sides, there are no issues, passing it around nicely, scoring a few, job done. But when they come up against the big boys? It turns into a game of survival, sitting deep and hoping for a set-piece or a counterattack to bail them out. That’s not sustainable. Tuchel needs to ensure England are comfortable dictating play against the top teams.   That means fixing the midfield, because let’s be honest, it’s still not entirely clear who should be in there. Declan Rice is a lock as the six, but who else plays as either the other six or the box-to-box eight? Does Trent play a hybrid midfield role? Does Bellingham play deeper? Or does Tuchel find a new system altogether? A possession-based approach isn’t just about passing for the sake of it; it’s about control, suffocating opponents, and forcing them to play on your terms. England have lacked that ability when the stakes are highest. If Tuchel can make England the team that dominates the ball and dictates the tempo in crunch games, they will finally stand toe-to-toe with the best in the world. This Week’s Hot Take   For years, England have been the nearly men of international football. Tuchel has been brought in to change that. He’s got the tactical acumen, the experience, and crucially, the fearlessness needed to make bold decisions. If he gets it right, he could go down as the man who finally ended England’s trophy drought. But if it all goes wrong? Well, let’s just say I hope he’s brushed up on his penalty shootout drills.

The Premier League is stacked with quality full-backs, but while right-backs tend to grab more headlines, it’s time to give some love to the other side of the pitch. Left-backs have a unique challenge: they need to be as effective going forward as they are at the back, all while operating in a position that historically has been less glamorous. But as modern football evolves, left-backs are becoming more important than ever, influencing games both defensively and offensively. With that in mind, here are the top five left-backs in the Premier League right now, ranked from fifth to first. #5: Milos Kerkez (Bournemouth)   Milos Kerkez is a name that casual fans might not be too familiar with, but that’s going to change soon. At just 20, the Hungarian left-back has been a standout for Bournemouth, bringing tenacity, pace, and technical ability to their backline.   Kerkez is fearless. He loves a duel, and his aggressive defending makes him a nightmare for wingers. Offensively, he’s always looking to get forward, either overlapping or driving inside to create chaos. His dribbling is underrated, making him a threat in transition. He’s also got a decent shot, occasionally testing goalkeepers from range. His work rate is relentless, and he constantly looks to push the team forward, making him an exciting player to watch.   However, there’s a bit of chaos in his game. He can be rash in challenges and still needs to refine his positioning. His over-aggression sometimes leaves gaps behind him, which better attackers exploit. He’s also prone to unnecessary fouls, which can put his team in trouble. But with his rapid development, he has all the makings of a future star and could soon attract interest from bigger clubs. #4: Antonee Robinson (Fulham)   If you need a left-back who can sprint up and down the flank for 90 minutes without breaking a sweat, Robinson is your guy. The American international has been one of Fulham’s most consistent performers, excelling both offensively and defensively.   Robinson’s biggest strength is his athleticism. He’s one of the fastest full-backs in the league, using his pace to recover defensively and support attacks. His ability to deliver dangerous crosses and link up with Fulham’s wingers makes him a valuable attacking asset. He’s also improved his passing range, making him more effective in build-up play. His ability to track back quickly after pushing forward is crucial for Fulham’s defensive stability.   Defensively, he’s solid but not flawless. He can be reckless in one-on-one situations and sometimes struggles under high pressing teams. His decision-making when pushing forward occasionally leaves Fulham exposed at the back. While he has improved tactically, there are moments when he gets caught out of position. Despite this, his work rate and reliability make him one of the league’s most well-rounded left-backs and a crucial player for Fulham. #3: Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)   Yes, Timber is a natural centre-back. Yes, he’s played only a handful of games at left-back. But in that short time before his injury, he showed enough to earn this spot.   Timber is the definition of a modern defender—calm, composed, and technically excellent. His ability to slot into midfield in possession makes him invaluable in Mikel Arteta’s system, giving Arsenal an extra passing option. His intelligence on the ball allows him to evade pressure effortlessly, and he’s comfortable driving forward to progress attacks. His positional awareness is elite, making it difficult for attackers to exploit spaces behind him.   Defensively, he’s hard to beat and reads the game exceptionally well. Unlike traditional full-backs, he doesn’t rely on sheer pace but rather positioning and awareness. His biggest challenge is staying fit. If he can avoid injuries, he could easily become the best in the league. His versatility also makes him an asset, as he can slot into central defence when needed, adding another layer of tactical flexibility for Arsenal. His ability to adapt to multiple roles makes him invaluable for Arteta’s system. #2: Andrew Robertson (Liverpool)   Robertson has been one of the best left-backs in the world for years, and despite recent injuries, he remains an elite option. When fit, he’s aggressive, energetic, and technically superb.   His biggest weapon is his delivery. Whether from open play or set pieces, his crossing is world-class. His link-up with Liverpool’s wingers is a huge part of their attacking system. He’s also relentless off the ball, pressing high and winning possession in advanced areas. His stamina and work ethic allow him to be effective at both ends of the pitch. His leadership on the pitch is also crucial, setting the tone for Liverpool’s defensive structure.   Defensively, he’s solid but not flawless. His one-on-one defending against top-tier wingers can sometimes be a weakness, and at 30, injuries are creeping into his game. He has also shown occasional lapses in concentration, leading to defensive errors. However, even at less than 100%, he remains one of Liverpool’s most influential players and a key figure in their success over the years. #1: Joško Gvardiol (Manchester City)   There was never any doubt about the top spot. Gvardiol isn’t just the best left-back in the league right now—he might be one of the best defenders in the world.   Gvardiol is a physical specimen—strong, quick, and dominant in duels. His technical ability is outstanding for a player of his size, and he’s comfortable stepping into midfield, making him perfect for Pep Guardiola’s system. His passing and composure under pressure make him integral to City’s build-up play. He’s also excellent in aerial duels, giving City an added defensive presence. His intelligence in positioning allows City to control games efficiently.   His versatility means he can play as a centre-back when needed, but at left-back, he adds defensive solidity while allowing City to dominate possession. His only drawback? He’s not a natural attacking full-back. He doesn’t make overlapping runs as frequently as traditional left-backs, limiting his influence in the final third. But in City’s system, that doesn’t really matter. His ability to control games and contribute defensively makes him the best left-back in the league right now. This Week’s Hot Take   The role of a left-back has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. Gone are the days when their main job was simply defending and whipping in crosses. Now, left-backs are expected to be hybrid players, tucking into midfield, controlling possession, and even acting as auxiliary centre-backs. As tactical systems evolve, we might see fewer traditional overlapping full-backs and more defensively solid, ball-playing left-backs.

At the time of writing this, Mohamed Salah has amassed 39 goal involvements already this season and weren’t not even in March. If he continues at this pace, he’s set to have the best statistical season in Premier League history. It got me thinking, what are some of the other great individual seasons we’ve seen in the Premier League. Well, for this week’s post, we’re going to go back down memory lane to discuss those individual seasons that were the stuff of legends. Erling Haaland (2022-23)   Let’s start with the record-breaker. In his debut season, Haaland walked into the Premier League like it was his backyard and obliterated the single-season goal record with 36 strike (for a 38-game season). The scary part? He did it while looking like he barely broke a sweat. With Kevin De Bruyne spoon-feeding him assists, the Norwegian cyborg ran riot, bullying defenders and making tap-ins an art form. His ability to find space in the box was borderline supernatural, and he made elite Premier League defenders look like Sunday league amateurs. His 36 goals weren’t just numbers; they were statements of intent, putting an exclamation mark on City’s treble-winning season. Given that this was just his first year in England, there’s every chance he could set the bar even higher in the years to come. Thierry Henry (2002-03)   It’s not just about scoring; it’s about making everyone else look good too. And Thierry Henry in 2002-03 was the ultimate creator-finisher hybrid. 24 goals would be a fantastic season on its own, but throw in 20 assists? That’s just showing off. The Frenchman essentially played two roles in one: Arsenal’s top scorer and their best playmaker. Whether it was curling efforts into the far post or threading inch-perfect passes to teammates, he was untouchable. His acceleration was lethal, his finishing clinical, and his vision unparalleled. The fact that he somehow didn’t win the Player of the Year award is still one of football’s biggest injustices. It was a season where he showcased every facet of his game, carrying Arsenal to second place and leaving defenders in his wake with ease. Luis Suárez (2013-14)   Luis Suárez’s 2013-14 season was chaos. Beautiful, relentless chaos. He missed the first five games through suspension and still managed to score 31 goals. And these weren’t just tap-ins—he was scoring from 40 yards out, nutmegging defenders just for fun, and dragging Liverpool to within touching distance of the title. Every game felt like a Suárez highlight reel, whether it was his four-goal masterclass against Norwich or his audacious chips over stranded goalkeepers. His ability to single-handedly turn games on their head made him one of the most electrifying players the league has ever seen. To this day, he’s the only player to outscore Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo whilst they were in their prime. Mohamed Salah (2017-18)   The phrase “one-season wonder” aged like milk when it came to Mohamed Salah. In his first season back in England, he didn’t just settle in, he broke the then 38-game goal record with 32 strikes. Every time he touched the ball, it felt like he was about to make something happen. Whether he was cutting in from the right, slotting cool finishes past helpless keepers, or just running at defenders like they owed him money, Salah was unstoppable. His ability to change direction at blistering speed made him impossible to contain. The Egyptian winger wasn’t just prolific, he was also incredibly efficient, often needing just one touch to set himself up for the perfect finish. And he did it all without playing as an out-and-out striker. This campaign set him on the path to becoming one of the Premier League’s all-time greats. Cristiano Ronaldo (2007-08)   Before Cristiano Ronaldo became the ultimate goal poacher, he was tearing up the Premier League as a ridiculous winger. The 2007-08 season was his finest in England, bagging 31 goals and winning the Golden Boot. His free-kicks were lasers, his headers were unstoppable, and his dribbling left defenders questioning their career choices. He didn’t just score goals; he scored screamers, game-winners, and moments of sheer brilliance that defined a season. His long-range strikes were inevitable, and his movement in the box was already showing signs of the poacher he’d later become. The Ballon d’Or followed, and so did a move to Real Madrid. This was the season Ronaldo truly announced himself as the best player in the world. Didier Drogba (2009-10)   Some players score goals, some set them up, Didier Drogba in 2009-10 just did both, and he did it while being an absolute nightmare to defend against. Chelsea’s powerhouse striker wasn’t just about brute strength; he had technique, finesse, and a ridiculous clutch factor. His 25 goals led Chelsea to the title, but those 14 assists, that’s what takes this season from “great” to “legendary.” A complete forward in every sense, Drogba bullied defenders while also showcasing his incredible link-up play. He had a knack for showing up in big games, and his ability to hold up the ball made him invaluable. Every Chelsea attack seemed to flow through him, and his leadership on the pitch was instrumental in guiding the Blues to domestic dominance. Thierry Henry (2004-05)   Yes, Henry is on this list twice. The 2004-05 season saw him hit 30 league goals, once again proving why he was the most feared player in England. He was quick, clinical, and made finishing look effortless. Whether it was darting in behind defenders or curling shots into the top corner, Henry was unstoppable. Arsenal might not have defended their Invincibles title, but Henry was still putting defenders on skates. His 30-goal tally in a non-title-winning season just underlines how dominant he was individually. Few players have ever been able to glide past defenders with such elegance while still being ruthlessly efficient in front of goal. This was Henry at his absolute peak, showcasing why he is widely regarded as the best striker in Premier League history. This Week’s Hot Take   Once this season is said and done, everyone will be agreement that Salah’s 2024-25 will go down as the greatest individual season in the Premier League era. To think that this man will turn 33 in June and is playing the best football of his career is a testament to his longevity and greatness.

The January 2025 transfer window has come and gone, leaving Premier League fans buzzing with excitement, disappointment, and the occasional "they signed who?" moment. As the dust settles, it's time to grade the transfer dealings of some of the league's top clubs. We'll assess the business done, the money spent, and whether clubs addressed their pressing issues. So, without further ado, let's dive into straight into it, shall we? United: C-   In terms of incomings, United's January transfer window was a quiet one. The only major addition was Patrick Dorgu, the left wing-back from Leece signed for £25m. It’s a position I did say we needed to address but he wasn’t my first option. The outgoings are more interesting, however. I’ve been vocal about letting Marcus Rashford go, and him heading to Aston Villa on loan could be a good move for him. The only issue is not bringing in some attacking reinforcements following his departure (as well as Antony’s to Real Betis). Any injuries to our front line, and we’ll be cooked even more than we already are. City: B-   Manchester City flexed their financial muscles, splashing over £180 million in the January window. Notable signings included Spanish midfielder Nico González from Porto for £50 million, along with defender Abdukodir Khusanov, forward Omar Marmoush, and defender Vitor Reis. These acquisitions add much needed youth to what is a bit of an aging team. I know he wasn’t having the best time of it, but the departure of their former captain Kyle Walker leaves a void in experience and leadership (Matheus Nunes at right-back is not the answer). While City's spending spree showcases their ambition, only time will tell if these new additions can seamlessly integrate and elevate the team's performance. Chelsea: C   Chelsea's January dealings were relatively subdued. The Blues recalled Trevoh Chalobah from his loan at Crystal Palace, bolstering their defensive options. Some Chelsea fans seem to think he’s now their best centre-back, which if that’s the case, says a lot. On their outgoings, I think they’ve done well getting rid of their fringe players. Carney Chukwuemeka was loaned to Borussia Dortmund, providing the youngster with valuable playing time. Disasi made a temporary switch to Villa, and Joao Felix is will finish off the season in Milan. While Chelsea didn't make any marquee signings, their focus on squad balance and player development is evident. Arsenal: C   All the noise coming out of the red half of North London was that they needed to sign a striker. They were linked with a whole host of names, the likes of Ollie Watkins, Mathys Tel and Kolo Randall Muani. But the end, no significant signings were made to bolster the squad. Realistically, it was going to be tough to bring in a killer number nine to aid their title charge. Watkins would have been the best available option, but with Jhon Duran leaving for Saudi, Villa were never going to sell. However, the lack of reinforcements could be a gamble if injuries or loss of form come into play during the crucial run-in. Liverpool: C   The Reds not doing any serious business isn’t surprising. They’ve got a six-point lead at the top (with a game in hand) and look set for a deep Champions League run. Their only concern would be if they lose Salah or Van Dijk to injury. Both have been at their scintillating best this season and injury to either player could hamper their chances of success. The only real departures were youngsters looking to get more first-team opportunities, which shouldn’t derail their campaign. Given past injury woes, fans might have been hoping for at least one key addition, but instead, they’ll have to trust that Slot can make do with what he has. Spurs: B   Spurs were active in the market. They’ve been ravaged by injuries, and so addressing their injury concerns was key. They secured the signings of goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky and centre-back Kevin Danso, adding defensive reinforcements. The most interesting move though was the arrival of Mathys Tel from Bayern. It looked like the move would fail to materialise, but a dramatic deadline day U-turn saw Spurs get their man. Would they have wanted more? Yes, but alas, it wasn’t to be. They tried late moves for Axel Disasi and Marc Guehi, but they couldn’t agree deals with Chelsea and Palace respectively. A decent window for Spurs, but a lack of defensive cover could cost them. Villa: A   No doubt Villa emerged as one of the window's big winners. To a man, the quality of player they have brought should provide a much-needed boost to their Champions League qualification hopes. The Villains secured Donyell Malen from Dortmund for £20m and pulled off impressive loan deals for Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio. Rashford will have a point to prove in the West Midlands, whilst Asensio is a multi-time Champions League winner who will add experience and quality. Offloading Jhon Duran for £64 million to Al Nassr also represents shrewd business. Villa's ambitious moves signal their intent, they’re not going down without a fight. Newcastle United: C-   The last few transfer windows have been frustrating for all those involved with Newcastle, and this one was no different. No new signings show the impact that the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules are affecting clubs. Newcastle are one of the teams that are severely constrained financially. I guess the one good thing from them is they’ve kept hold of their prized assets (for now). While stability is valuable, fans might have hoped for reinforcements to bolster their push for European qualification. The lack of activity could be a gamble if injuries or form issues arise. This Week’s Hot Take   We could look back at Villa’s January transfer window as being one of the shrewdest winter windows in recent memory. January is notoriously tough for finding value, but that hasn’t stopped Villa making moves. All their signings make sense & will improve their squad. Known as a seller’s market, they took advantage of that as well in letting Jhon Duran go. All in all, one of the better winter windows a side has in a while.

Yet again, United look like they’re on the brink of another crisis. Amorim warned that there would be more pain to come following his appointment in November, even he wouldn’t have thought it could get any worse. One thing that’s clear, this 3-4-2-1 system Amorim likes to use does not suit his current crop of players. It’s the classic case of square pegs in round holes. In the summer, he needs to buy the players that will suit his system to a tee. So, for this week’s post, I’m going to explain which positions the Portuguese should prioritise. Wing-Back   In my mind, the most important positions in three-back formations are the wing-backs. They are so crucial in providing the necessary width, being that go-to outlet as well as having the capacity to cover ground, both offensively and defensively. I think Mazraoui and Dalot are decent full-backs, and specifically with Mazraoui, have been one of the better performers this season. However, as wing-backs, they are not dynamic enough. If you look at the premier teams that play with wing-backs, they offer so much in the attacking third, which cannot really be said for those two.   The above implies that it’s just the right wing-back position that needs changing, which is not the case. The left wing-back position is just as problematic. If fit, Shaw would be good in that role, as he offers enough in the attacking phase of play. His recent injury struggles mean he cannot be relied upon, however. The same goes for Malacia. Both cannot be trusted to get a consistent run of games.  In an ideal world, who would I want for those positions? Alphonso Davies and Jeremie Frimpong would be the dream. However, being realistic, if we could get Nuno Mendes and Denzel Dumfries , they would constitute good moves. Striker   I was thinking about this recently, since Fergie retired in 2013, the only striker who I can think of that performed anywhere close to expectations was Ibrahimović. I’ve been banging on about United’s striker issues and I will say it again. What on earth were we thinking buying two unproven, erratic strikers in the space of two years. With Højlund, I do have some sympathy as he is constantly starved of service whenever you watch him. He clearly wants to score, but the chances created for him are so scarce. My opinion on Zirkzee is well documented so I won’t delve into that subject.   The question is, who could Amorim get. The most linked name I see is Viktor Gyökeres , who’s been banging in the goals in Portugal. For the money being quoted, I’d be cautious of signing him, as the Portuguese league is one thing, doing it in the Premier League is a whole different ball game (look at Darwin Núñez). Instead of him, I would want the man who was at the top of my list two years ago, Victor Osimhen . He may not be as hot a commodity as he was in the past, but he’s still a class act. If the money is right, he’s the guy United should go after. Centre Midfielder   Like the striker position, United have not really been able to find a long-term solution in the middle of the park. Names such as Schneiderlin, Matic & Casemiro have all flattered to deceive, and the board haven’t got it quite right since Carrick retired. The issue with playing just two in midfield is that, unless they can be a presence physically and can cover the ground effectively, they’ll most likely get dominated. I do like Mainoo, but he doesn’t have the legs yet. Ugarte has improved since his shaky start, but on the ball, he’s not quite at the level United need.   Given United might be tight for funds in the summer, it could be hard for them to get the reinforcements they need in this area. If money was no object, I’d say go and get Frenkie De Jong , no questions asked. It was a missed opportunity not signing him back in 2022, when Barcelona’s financial issues were at their peak. he’s the exact profile of player United need. Good on the ball, can cover the ground and can balance offense and defence well. Other options that should be considered are Palace’s Adam Wharton , Sporting’s Morten Hjulmand or Atalanta’s Ederson . Goalkeeper   In truth, I could have picked any other position not mentioned previously, but out of all of them, the keeper position remains a problem. Originally, despite his severe lapses in concentration, I thought Onana had gotten a bit better this campaign, and started showing some of the form that earned him the move from Inter. Despite this, I haven’t seen enough to believe he should be United’s long-term number one. His shot-stopping ability can only paper over the cracks so much, as too many times his judgment costs United. Your keeper is supposed to be a calming presence, and he’s the furthest thing from calm.   With him being at the club for less than 18 months, this is the position that is least likely to be addressed. For that reason, it makes it hard for me to think who should be his replacement. If he wasn’t set to join Liverpool, I would have said Giorgi Mamardashvili is a keeper United should look at. But that can’t happen now. Someone like an Unai Simón could be a good fit. He’s been Spain’s number one for a while now and has an established reputation. Aside from him, there’s Diogo Costa at Porto, who’s another decent keeper that could do the job. This Week’s Hot Take   Amorim said this is the worst United team of all time. Whilst I don’t agree with him seeing that publicly, he’s not entirely wrong. In my life, this is the worst performing United team I’ve seen. I’ve phrased it this way specifically because the players themselves aren’t awful, they’re just performing so badly. This is nothing new, these players have been performing terribly for 18 months now. The summer window is going to be so crucial for Amorim, and he needs to get the signings right.

My last post revisited the Premier League predictions I made back in the summer, and whether I’ve stuck with some of my original picks or drastically changed my mind. This week, the attention is shifted to the individual honours. A lot has happened through the first five months or so, such that it’s inevitable that opinions change. The question is, how much have they changed? Let’s find out, shall we? Player of the Season: Mohamed Salah   I got this one so wrong, I’ll be the first to admit. My original winner for this was Rodri, but he’s done for the season so there’s no chance he wins this. Don’t think it’s a surprise that I’ve now opted for Salah, who is the clear favourite. For a man that’s 32, he looks as good as he’s ever looked. People think he’s simply just a goalscorer, but his playmaking ability is really slept on. Not only is the league’s top scorer, but he also leads the league in assists. He’s been Liverpool’s main as they look set to win their second Premier League title. In a year where his contract is running down and speculation is fuelling that this might be his last year, he’s going out with a bang. Young Player of the Season: Cole Palmer   Another one I got terribly wrong. Nothing against Kobbie Mainoo, but he never really had a chance in winning this one. So again, I’m going to go with the boring pick of Cole Palmer. I was curious to see how he’d do in his second season at Chelsea, to see whether what he achieved in his first year was just a fluke. Well, it certainly wasn’t. He’s the reason why Chelsea are strong favourites to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 2022. The way he influences matches from the #10 position is incredible and he plays the game with such ease. 19 goal involvements in 20 matches says it all. Honourable mentions go to Liam Delap of Ipswich and Morgan Rodgers of Villa, both of whom are having good seasons. Manager of the Season: Arne Slot/Nuno Espirto Santo   My vote for this one is split. If Liverpool were to win the league, I would probably lean more towards Slot. When Klopp left last summer, people assumed that there might be a bit of a drop off as the players got used to a new voice in the dressing room. However, Slot has come in and said, “forget that nonsense, I’m going to take the league by storm”. At this point, Liverpool look a cut above the rest and if they were to win the title, all the praise should go to the Dutchman. On the other hand, Forest qualifying for Europe would be another phenomenal achievement. Remember, this is a team that finished 17th in the 2023/24. So, to go from fighting for survival to fighting for Europe, how can Nuno not be in the mix? Top Scorer: Mohamed Salah   Another award that looks set to go to the Egyptian. If people read my predictions right at the start of the campaign, I said barring disaster, I expect Haaland to win a third successive golden boot. The Norwegian is only 2 goals behind Salah, but looking at the form of both players, it’s Salah’s to lose. He is firing on all cylinders, and goals are coming easy for him in his Liverpool side. He could join Thierry Henry as the only players to win the golden boot 4 different times, as well as score over 20 goals in 5 different seasons. For a supposed “winger” his numbers continue to astound. We need to appreciate just what we’re seeing from Salah. If he is to leave Merseyside at the end of the season, he will go down as one of the greatest to ever to it in the Premier League. Best Signing: Nikola Milenkovic   I had to have a real think about this one, as there isn’t someone that immediately jumped to my mind. Given how well Forest are going, I’ve gone for the big Serbian centre-back. Only Arsenal have conceded fewer goals than the team from the East Midlands, and Milenkovic has been crucial to their defensive transformation. Not much was made when he signed from Fiorentina, but at £12m, he’s proving to be a steal. His towering presence (standing a 6’4) has helped Forest solve their aerial weaknesses. He’s such an imposing figure at the back and he’s slotted in seamlessly thus far. I’ve watched him a few times, and the thing I like about him the most is, he’s one of those no-nonsense defenders that doesn’t overcomplicate things. Signing of the season for me. Worst Signing: Joshua Zirkzee   It’s funny because whilst I had Gündoğan as the best signing, but you could make the case he’s been one of the worst. However, for the worst signing, I had to pick Joshua Zirkzee. It’s nothing against him, but this move has not worked at all. It never made sense why United would sign another young, not very prolific striker from Serie A. Granted United have been a mess this season and it’s not purely down to him. However, when I watch him, he doesn’t look desperate to score. He seems more concerned with dropping into midfield and being involved in build-up play. Now with Amorim at the helm, he doesn’t suit his system. He doesn’t have the mobility to play the #9, and he’s not technically good enough to fill one of the two #10s. All in all, a strange signing in my opinion. This Week’s Hot Take   I have a feeling that if I were to review these predictions once the season has drawn to a close, I’m confident that I’ll be spot on with most of my picks. Football fans know the second half of the season is where we get into the nitty gritty, where the pressure stands to mount. Things can change drastically, however, based on what we’ve seen already, I don’t think I’ll change my mind once again.

Normally, I would wait until after the January transfer window to reassess my Premier League predictions. Winter signings have the potential to impact a team’s season for the better, or for the worst. However, given roughly half of the season has been played thus far, it seems like a good time to see how many (if any) of my early season picks have changed. Let’s get right into it. Title Winners: Liverpool   Like most people, I tipped City to win their fifth successive title. But they’re so far away from their usual selves that I cannot seem them catching this Liverpool side. The Reds through the first half of the campaign have been the team to beat. Slot has been a revelation in his first year, and whatever he’s doing, it’s been working. They’ve lost only 1 league game all season (and that wasn’t even against a member of the traditional top six).   Their charge is being led by Mohamed Salah, who has 17 goals & 13 assists in just 18 matches says it all. Truly nuts! One of my biggest question marks was their midfield, as I didn’t think it could compete with City’s or Arsenal’s. However, Gravenberch has been one of the best midfielders in the league. MacAllister has also been very good whilst Jones has emerged as a valuable member of the engine room. They’ve established a 9-point at the summit, and I can’t see them letting in slip. Top Five: Arsenal, City, Chelsea, Newcastle   FYI, I’m assuming five clubs will qualify for the Champions League next season. In my view, Arsenal are best placed to finish as runners-up this year. My thing with Arsenal is, we’ve seen them throw away title leads in the past, so do I think they’re good enough to be the hunters rather than the hunted? No, I don’t. My head really should have Chelsea above City, based on what I’ve seen over the first half of the campaign.   As bad as City have been, it’s not as if their players have suddenly become terrible. This team can rack up wins like it’s no man’s business. I don’t think this will be the case this time around, but they should be much better in the next few months. The last team I have sneaking into the top five is Newcastle. I know Forest are flying but it will come a point where they’ll go through a sticky patch and the Magpies will be the team to make the most of this.  Sixth to Eighth: Forest, Villa, Spurs   To be third at the halfway point is credit to the job Nuno Espírito Santo is doing in the East Midlands. Chris Wood has been their best player, and if he can keep scoring goals, they’ll be in with a shout. What I think will be their undoing is the lack of experience competing for European football. Come the last third of the season, the pressure will start to kick in, and I don’t think they’ll be able to cope.     For the other two spots, I’ve gone for Villa and Spurs. Villa’s Chanpions League exploits have negatively affected their league form, but I trust Emery to add some stability to his side. There’s no real logic to me having Spurs finishing eighth. Fans are not happy with Big Ange and some even want him out. His tactics are baffling, but there’s no other team I can confidently say should replace them. Best of the Rest: Bournemouth   Again, this is another free-for-all. I’m going to go out on a limb and say Bournemouth will be the best of the rest. It’s hard as a neutral to not be a fan of Andoni Iraola. In his 18-month reign, he’s really established the Cherries as a credible Premier League side, one not satisfied with simply staying in the English top-flight. They have been able to catch some of the big teams off guard, beating both Manchester clubs already this season.   If you go through their team, they have some good players. Kerkez has been one of the better left-backs in the league. Semenyo and Kluivert have been able to provide good support in the forward positions. Lastly in his debut campaign, Evanlison has provided a good focal point, as well as chipping in with a few goals here and there. Back to front, they possess talent and whilst they may drop off a little bit as we head into Spring, they could be set for their best PL finish ever. Relegation: Leicester, Ipswich, Southampton   Eventually, it will be the Toffees time to get relegated, but in the meantime, I think they’ll be safe for at least another year. I do hope Ruud Van Nistelrooy can keep Leicester in the league, but the odds don’t look good. In my original predictions, I said that Ipswich will be this year’s Luton and that it was going to be a long season for Southampton. Both statements are proving to be true.   Going to Portman Road has proven tough for a lot of teams, but their lack of Premier League experience is proving to be their nemesis. They’ve only won 3 games all season. I just don’t think they’ve good enough to stay up. Southampton have been terrible, plain and simple. It’s their defence in particular that’s been the most concerning. Some of the mistakes they’ve made which have directly led to goals is alarming. Like Ipswich, they lack firepower up top. All in all, a bad combination, one that is likely to result in relegation. This Week’s Hot Take   If Slot can deliver Liverpool’s second Premier League title, it will be the best debut campaign for a manager since Jose Mourinho in 2004/05. We all thought this would be a year of transition for Liverpool, having lost Jurgen Klopp, and therefore a drop-off was expected. They’re proving everyone wrong so far, and for that, a lot of credit needs to go to the Dutchman. To come into one of the toughest leagues to manage in the world and deliver a league title in your first season would be something special.

For any new readers to the blog, I recently started a series where I rank the top five players in each position in the Premier League. In the first two entries, I talked about the best goalkeepers and centre backs that the English top-flight has to offer. This next instalment focuses on the right-back position, a position that has become more influential today. Let’s dive right in. #5: Diogo Dalot (United)   At number five, we have the Portuguese right-back. Granted, United have been a mess over the last 18 months, but he has been one of United’s better performers. He offers athleticism and energy that all modern full-backs should have, given how much grass they must cover game-by-game. It took him a while to get comfortable in a United shirt, as he was sent out on loan to Milan early on and was the understudy to Aaron Wan-Bissaka. But he's now one of the first names on the team sheet.   He does sometimes lack quality in the final third, evidenced by that horrible miss against West Ham. However, he has improved on that front. Defensively, he can certainly have his off days, in particular his decision making when it comes to defending against attackers one-on-one. Nonetheless, he’s made strives to get better on the defensive side. His work rate and tenacity are also impressive, as he's always willing to put in a shift both offensively and defensively. #4: Pedro Porro (Spurs)   In many ways, Pedro Porro and Diogo Dalot are similar; both are energetic, dynamic and provide an outlet in the attacking third. The main separator between the two is the extra bit of quality that Porro’s has. I must admit, when he first signed for Spurs, I didn’t think much of it. I just thought he would be another mediocre Spurs signing that wouldn’t last long. However, he’s really established himself in North London.   The Spaniard's attacking instincts are very good. He consistently overlaps, providing width and opportunities to get the ball into the opposition’s 18-yard box. Once more, his ability to deliver accurate crosses and make incisive passes into the box is a major asset to how Spurs attack. Lastly, he’s good on the ball. Defenders, especially full-backs, need to be comfortable receiving the ball in tight spaces and playing out from the back, something he has no problem with. Could he better defensively? Probably, but that’s with most full-backs in 2024. #3: Ben White (Arsenal)   Who would have thought that a player who, as a youngster, was touted to be one of English’s better centre-backs makes it to number three of the best right-backs in England. I think out of all the players on this list, Ben White is the most well-rounded. There are no real obvious flaws in his game. Transitioning from the centre of defence to one of the full-back positions is never easy, given the former is usually provided with more protection. But White has made it look easy.   The Englishman’s composure on the ball is somewhat underrated. It’s rare that you see him dispossessed in his own half. His relationship with Bukayo Saka makes for one of the best right-hand sides in the league. He's rarely flustered under pressure and can make accurate passes under the most difficult circumstances. He is solid at the back, which isn’t a surprise given his experience of playing centre-half. An all-round top player. #2: Kyle Walker (City) Like his team, Walker’s going through a bit of a slump to say the least. Despite this, he had to go into my top two. Walker's biggest asset is his relentless pace and tireless energy, two things that make him one of the most feared right-backs in world football. His ability to recover lost ground with blistering speed is a nightmare for opposing wingers, which can make up for his defensive deficiencies (more on this a bit later).   People will say he’s lost a step (evidence of this being Timo Werner blitzing past him in City’s embarrassing defeat to Spurs), but for a man who is 34, he’s still lightning quick. The biggest criticism that is levied at Walker is his tendency to switch off defensively. He can make a blunder every now and then and it’s something that is probably not going to change. Nonetheless, to be a staple in this City team for nearly a decade shows he’s one of the best. #1: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)   Roberto Carlos revolutionised the left-back position. You could say that TAA has done the same thing on the other side. What he does at the position is unlike anything we’ve seen. The star quality he possesses is his passing ability. It’s not just the passing, but the variety of passes he has in his locker, whether it’s long diagonals, incisive through balls or outside of the foot peaches. He sometimes reminds me of an NFL quarterback the way he distributes the ball.   There’s a reason why for both club and country, he’s played the midfield position. Defensively I used to think he was bad, but to his credit, he has gotten better. Considering that for most of his career he’s had to face the world’s best wingers, it’s almost by force that he’s had to work on his defensive game. As long as you’re a passable defender, that’s all that matters. If Trent continues what he’s doing for the next 5 years, he’ll go down as one of the best to play the position in the Premier League. This Week’s Hot Take   The traditional role of a right-back has been completely transformed in the modern game. Players like Trent Alexander-Arnold have redefined the position, prioritizing attacking contributions over defensive duties. While this approach has led to breathtaking moments of brilliance, it has also exposed defensive vulnerabilities. As the game continues to evolve, we may see a shift back towards a more balanced approach, where defensive responsibilities are prioritized alongside attacking flair.

There’s talk of a crisis in Manchester, and for the first time in a while, I’m not talking about the red half of Manchester. City are going through a spell that they’ve not gone through in decades. They’re winless in their last six in all competitions, with five straight defeats followed by throwing away a three-goal lead against Feyenoord in the Champions League. The question is, where is it going wrong for the Citizens? That’s what I’ll try and answer in this week’s post. Let’s get it. No One In The Engine Room   A team as good as City have dealt with injuries to key players over the course of their recent dominance, but Rodri rupturing his ACL in September has completely thrown them off their game. We’ve seen De Bruyne miss long periods of a season and City still win the league. We’ve seen them be without key defenders like Ruben Dias Stones for a period, and again, it hasn’t halted their previous title challenges. However, the one player you wouldn’t want to lose as a City fan would be the Spanish Ballon D’Or winner. He is the heartbeat of their midfield, the one that keeps the play ticking nicely. He’s someone who not only helps protect the back four, but over the last few years, we’ve seen how impactful is his in the final third of the pitch.   A stat which emphasises his importance is, in the 106 games since February 2023, City's defeat ratio when Rodri plays is around 3%. In games that he misses, that rises to 36%. The jump is quite insane. There’s no natural replacement in his position. Kovacic is a tidy footballer, no doubt. But he doesn’t provide the defensive security that Rodri does. Gundogan can’t cover the ground anymore and Rico Lewis is more of a full back rather than a deep lying midfielder. If people are still questioning Rodri’s quality, what we’ve seen over the last few games is evidence enough. He’s City’s most important player and without him, it just doesn’t look right in the middle of the park. System Malfunction   I mentioned earlier how Rodri going down has caused the system to operate not as it should be. However, the problem goes beyond just one player. From defence to attack, there’s problems that need to be sorted out. Let’s start with the defence. Too many times there are gaps as wide as the Atlantic Ocean, such that the opposition can break through with relative ease. Pep’s side are normally such a solid team at the back, but they are getting exposed more and more. Now if we move onto the midfield, this might be where the main issue lies. We’ve already discussed the absence of Rodri, but the midfield is where opposing teams are getting the most joy.   If you watched the Spurs game, the midfield of Maddison, Sarr and Bissouma absolutely tore through City’s midfield as if they weren’t even there. I can’t remember the last time I saw their midfield dominated like that. But are we surprised? Without Rodri, there are no runners in midfield, no one who can really cover the ground. As technically gifted as players like Gundogan, Kovacic, Bernando Silva are, if there’s no one to do the nitty gritty, you’re bound to get exposed. Lastly in attack, it’s just not clicking. Sure, Haaland is doing his thing, but he’s missing big chances frequently. Once more (and we’ll touch on this later), but the over-reliance on the Norwegian is an issue. So far this year, he’s scored 55% of their goals. That shows that if he doesn’t score, the goals aren’t really flowing. All in all, there are problems across the pitch that the Citizens need to deal with.   Next Man Up   In all sports, there’s this concept of the next man up. Basically, if someone is absent, others should be prepared to step up when needed and help fill the void. What we’re seeing so far is that in the absence of certain key men, not enough players in blue are doing their part. Sure, all players go through dry spells in their career; moments where they’re not at their best. Nonetheless, there are certain players who I feel need to do more, and the first person I’ll start with is Foden. We all know the quality he’s possess, but is he the guy to drag you through the mud when you need him most? I’m not sure.   With De Bruyne’s frequent absence, the Englishman is City’s best attacker after Haaland. I expect him to take games by the scruff of the neck more often, not letting the game pass him by. Another player is Walker. He’s been England’s best right back for nearly a decade, but the signs of decline are there to see. His greatest ability at this point in his career is his recovery pace, but I’m seeing opposing players blitz by him. I could highlight any one of City’s wingers for not pulling their weight too. Foden, Grealish, Doku & Savinho between them are yet to score a Premier League goal this season. All these players I’ve mentioned need to discover their form again, or else they can kiss their title hopes goodbye. This Week’s Hot Take   If the title ends up staying at the Etihad, it will not just be Pep’s best Premier League win, it will be his best title win period. They’re backs are firmly against the wall. They could be eleven points off the top by the end of the weekend. All signs are pointing to them not retaining the title. However, we all know City can find a way. This is not the same team as in previous years, but if anyone can rack up the wins, it’s Pep’s team. Come May, if he is lifting the Premier League crown, he’ll know deep dow that it will be his best one.