Exactly and also if you look at the entire Spanish squad, most of the players play for all the top teams that were involved in most of their domestic honours, as well as Europe. Quite a lot of their players would have featured in the Champions/Europa cup and most would have advanced quite far. But in all seriousness, there is no comparison between the squads. Spain has an endless supply of quality, as shown on their bench. They had two of the best Prem players on the bench and did Cazorla even get a game? Brazil in comparison have some over hyped players and 1 that can genuinely do something special. Other than the flair of Neymar, does anyone in their squad remotely resemble a Brazil of yesteryear?
I'd say the current Brazil-11 is looking quite a bit like the teams that won in 1994 and 2002. I guess they miss that Romario/Ronaldo figure though. Beyond the first 11, I don't see much quality. Also, how much better will Neymar and Oscar be next year? Home advantage will play a role, and I wouldn't underestimate Scolari's ability to put together a team that can get the job done. He did in 2002. They're behind Spain and Germany, but I'd put them ahead of Argentina and Holland right now.
I have to be honest and say that I just don't like the way Spain play. Their defensive play is dreadful and relies on them keeping the ball for >60% of the time. Their attacking philosophy relies on the other team chasing them around in the middle aimlessly. As time goes on, sides are beginning to learn how to play against Barcelona/Spain and this short-passing high possession game is not all conquering. I think Pep knew how to mix it up and get the best out of it, but it is looking a bit stale these days. Can't put my finger on it, but when Spain/Barcelona were at their best, they were able to seize an opportunity with lightning speed and a 35yd pass, when it presented itself. Now it just looks very slow and pedestrian. I agree that the Brazil side are not the finished article, but they are better than Spain.
Just thought you guys may be interested... http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892...r-confirms-paulinho-will-move-to?ICID=HP_HN_1
Say what you want but if the rumours of Paulinho's transfer going through is correct, their midfield will look very strong next season. If they manage to get Villa then they will be a team to look out for next season.
This comment could equally come back to haunt you - a la HIAG. Best to wait and see what happens before spouting off
Paulinho looks like a quality player and Spurs will do well to secure his services. £17m is a lot of money though, so he'll need to be quite some improvement on what they've got. Time will tell, he's had a decent confed cup, but who knows how he'll adapt to the premier league and soggy wet nights in stoke during the winter . .
There is no guarantee that he will replicate the same success with Chelsea again. Different squad and a different time. This time you not only have Man U, but Man City as direct competitors, and if Arsenal and Spurs manage to sign a few top players, they too will be in your face. I can't see any one team being way ahead next season. It will go down to the wire.
Agree but I think Jose will get us at least 80-85 points (not 95 like last time), which will get us top three minimum.
The problem is, is that Villa wants CL football. That is a well known fact. Paulinho is a class signing but they have a million midfielders already, how are they going to shoehorn him in there? 4-6-0?
I didn't think of that. I wouldn't mind us taking Villa for just a couple of seasons. He would make a big impact for us in my opinion. Still top class.
Next season it will be Sandro Dembele Paulinho Lennon Villa Bale or Bale Soldado/Damaio Villa - if my dreams come true. Siggy, Holtby, Dempsey/Lennon as cup team/ bench game changers
Update for United if anyones interested. ESPN say Thiago is 'very close' PSV say Strootman is not leaving this summer. Garay should sign this week according to some Portugese paper. A bola or something?
Kolo Toure has signed for Liverpool on a free. Anybody think it might have been worth taking him back as a fourth choice CB ?
