2013/07/11 Day 10: Alternative style of football. Please live up to it…

Here is what happened in the last 24 hours:

• Richard Wright signed one year extension with City. He has yet to make appearance in the first team football. (Reported in Skysports)
• Karim Rekik has moved to PSV Eindhoven for a season-long loan. Good move and hopefully it works out for him. (Reported in Skysports)
• Gareth Barry to Arsenal? It went on for a while but Gunners are interested to sign England international at the cost of ￡4 million. Getting rid of ￡100,000 a week from salary space can be attractive for Manuel Pellegrini. (Reported in Yahoo! Sports)
• After Manuel Pellegrini’s first press conference, there is growing certainty of signing additional strikers within a few weeks. (finally…) and it is becoming apparent that City’s targets are Alvaro Negredo and Stevan Jovetic. Guardian and various news agents are now starting to report that Jovetic’s agency, which is same as Matija Nastasic, has now travelled to Manchester to strike the deal. As I mentioned yesterday’s, it is known that City have first refusal on Jovetic, as the part of Nastasic deal from last year.
• Regarding Negredo case, the deal is getting nearer to completion, since Sky Sports and BBC Sports concurrently reported that City are about to sign two times Zarra trophy winner. Despite strong denial from Sevilla’s president, Jose Maria del Nido, on receiving offer from City, Sky Sports also revealed that he held meeting with City chief executive Ferran Soriano on 3^rd of July, regarding potential transfer of Alvaro Negredo. With his replacement signed (Carlos Bacca from Club Brugge), I think the transfer is only matter of time.

From his first press conference he seemed to be more secretive towards squad management then Roberto Mancini, as he was often clumsy or even confrontational against media. However, he was not shy against challenge ahead of him. His goal this season (the minimum target, so to speak) is to regain league title and run a successful campaign in the Champions League, which Mancini did not manage to do for two consecutive seasons. He also promised more expansive football, which will be eye-watering stuff that could not be experienced under Mancini era. I just hope that his style does not wreck the well-built defense that he inherited from Mancini.

Other transfer news:

• No Higuain. No Suarez… Are Gooners going to sign anyone big?? Bid on Higuain collapsed due to extra ￡5 million demand from Real Madrid and Suarez was never affordable target for them. Now Real Madrid’s pursuit on want-away Liverpool striker growing, it seems they might have to look for different option. So far, all Prof. Wenger bought is Football Manager “sensation” Yaya Sanogo, (in my game, he averages 30+ goals in the league). Is it enough? Well…
• Southampton is becoming interesting club to watch. Since they managed to bring in Gaston Ramirez (whom I never thought to be suitable for the Saints, which was proved to be wrong), they are now getting inch closer to sign Super Eagle’s starlet, Victor Wanyama. From Celtic’s memorable victory against Barcelona, Wanyama started to attract various interests from big clubs, which includes Manchester United. With him, Ramirez, Morgan Schneiderlin and Adam Lallana in the midfield (and they are young too), I can see them advancing to mid-table team.
• Is Thiago Alcantara REALLY going to Manchester United? Since the end of last season, press from all over the world were so hyped to see son of Brazil legend to replace Paul Scholes and assist Michael Carrick, who single-handedly held Utd midfield together last season. Well it is already mid-July and there is no confirmation from his party to play for Utd next season and, interestingly, there is a speculation that he might be heading to Munich to join his former manager. So what went wrong for Utd? Similar to Isco case, in which he was persuaded by Zinedine Zidane, Alcantara was advised not to move to Utd from their national coach Vincente del Bosque, concerning his regular playing time at Utd (it’s a bit odd thing to say...). NBC Sports report that the deal is imminent and will be signed as soon as today.

2013/07/10 Day 9: Quality defender required… but really? Pepe?

Here are the rumours that went around in last 24 hours:

•  Pellegrini has been looking at hot-tempered Portuguese international Pepe to replace Joleon Lescott. Sadly (?) though Carlos Ancelotti seems likely to block this potential deal. (Reported in Telegraph and Independent)
• Consequently, Joleon Lescott is likely to retain his place in the squad, as Pellegrini confirms that he will reject offers for him (But still does not mean we don’t need another centre-back though) (Reported in Telegraph)
• Stevan Jovetic deal seems to be progressing as it is now identified that his release is £27million and spotted his agent seems to be roaming around to strike the deal. As part as Mathias Natasic deal last season, Caughtoffside is mentioned that City has first refusal on Jovetic. (Reported in ESPN & The Sun)
• Pursuit of Steven Jovetic means City’s interest on Pablo Osvaldo has cool down. (Thank god for that... Remember Rolando Bianchi?) (Reported in Daily Express)
• It seems Micah Richards’ new contract talk has been prolonged for a while and it is now reported that Richards would like to see Pellegrini’s plan prior to sign the contract. While there is reported interest from Inter, Richards also wants increase on his already buffed up salary of £65,000. (Reported in Daily Mail & Guardian)
• According to media reports from Argentina, Carlos Tevez was told to lost six kilos of his weight ahead of next season. During his medical at Juventus Stadium, medical team discovered he was overweight and Antonio Conte admonished him to lose the weight.

In comparison to what has been a very active transfer market since the end of season, City have been relatively quiet one until now. Spending £50million on two good players is sounding investment (and I am sure they will improve City’s chance to regain the Premier League title in the upcoming season) but I am not sure on whether it has enhanced the current squad status, which will guarantee the success in the Champions League. Overall quality of incoming players looks good compare to last year’s hastily bought peripheral players but I think, the squad needs bulk up a little bit more to achieve goal for next season, which are to regain the league title and good champions league campaign.

Today’s Completed Transfer (Selected):

Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar -> Sunderland, £8.8million)

Henrik Mkhitaryan (Shakhtar Donetsk -> Borussia Dortmund, £23million)

Rolando Bianchi (Torino -> Bologna, Free)

2013/07/09 Day 8: Still no sign of striker…

Here is what has reported in the last 24 hour: 

• City are close to sign Pablo Osvaldo, according to various sources (None from broadsheet paper though)
• Alvaro Negredo’s arrival at the Eastland is imminent (Reported in various medias, incl. BBC & Guardian)
• Signing Edinson Cavani is beginning to slip away, as PSG are preparing to match the Napoli’s price tag. (Reported in Skysports & FoxSports.)
• Scott Sinclair has been constantly on the transfer rumour and his latest potential destination is Newcastle, according to Skysports, as Joe Kinnear is keen to sign him.
• City are still in for swooping Fiorentina’s starlet Stevan Jovetic, as his potential transfer to Juventus is on halt, due to poor relationship between two clubs. Arsenal are also interested. (Reported in AS and Skysports)
• Aleksandar Kolarov’s future will be decided soon if Galatasaray decide to cough up £1.25-million for his loan fee with £5 million of signing option. (Reported in the Express)
• Julian Draxler, who was sensational for Schalke 04 last season, became the latest target for various clubs, which includes City. (Reported in Daily Star)
• Edin Dzeko’s future seems to lie in Madrid, after Atletico Madrid showed interest to spend some of profit made from selling Radamel Falcao. (Reported in Guardian)

So far, City have signed two brilliant players, who can provide strength and flair to Ciy’s paper thin midfield area (considering City only have Yaya Toure and David Silva to rely on, yes two midfielders are not enough for a 50+ games) but, after sending Super Mario and Carlos to Italy, City are genuinely lacking firepower and the quality of those players, who has been speculated for past two months, seem to lack quality. Now that City have missed out on signing Cavani, who was only quality striker available in the transfer market, City have to make the next move pretty soon, otherwise, City will be experiencing another goal-deficient season.

Here today’s completed transfer:

David Villa (Barcelona -> Atletico Madrid, £4.4 million)

Eric Abidal (Unattached -> Monaco, Free)

Mario Gomez (Bayern Munich -> Fiorentina, £17.2 million)

Arouna Kone (WIgan Athletic -> Everton, £6 million)

Review on Everton Match, Latest Transfer News

"Not thoroughly prepared"
That's what Roberto Mancini said after the defeat against Everton last season. Lame excuse but I accepted it and hoped he will not make the mistake again. After all, everyone deserves second chance. How wrong I was...

Funky feeling that I had prior to this match. Obviously absent of Sergio Aguero, Yaya Toure and Vincent Kompany would be a big factor but that was not my main concern. It was the formation that Mancini brought out, which is not suitable against Everton.

Sure three at the back works fine, as we saw time after time (at times, it was a game changer). But, if Mancini did his homework and prepared thoroughly enough towards this match, he could easily spot out that Everton have a good pair of full-backs that could threat both City flanks. With only one player on the each flank, I could easily see City's liability lies there and Seamus Coleman and Leighton Baines made sure my worries to become true. (I will not go into Mancini's absurd substitutions as it will be discussed in my next post)

Besides tactical mess, there were just no assertiveness among City players. Especially in the first half, when City were dominated by Everton, link play between David Silva and Edin Dzeko were poor and, at midfield, City seemed to be swamped and unable to pull strings to deliver quality ball to up front.

With Utd's victory against manager-less Reading, now the gap is 15 points and there just seems no way back to retain the trophy that City craved since 67-68 season. With nine games to go, I should not expect too much but a strong finish with FA cup in the trophy cabinet. But is it too much too ask for current City team?

Transfer Mills

• Marcos Reus and Ilkay Gundogan has been the latest target for City. Watched by many City supporters, Reus was sensational against City in the Champions League tie last October and he seems to be the player that could add spark to the City attacking department. Source: The Sunday People

Likely or Unlikely? Unlikely, as both of them look happy in 'die Schwarzgelben' and not many German players leave their country to play their football abroad.

• Aguero has been a target for Real for a while. Resilient forward, who has been a main talisman for City, has struggled with injuries during this season. With Karim Benzema and Gonzalo Higuain not performing, Fiorentino Perez wants to add new signing to spark competition within the squad by signing the Kun. Source: Daily Star

Likely or Unlikely? Very unlikely. He has been centrepiece of City's forward. Why on earth would we sell him?

• Yaya's contract talk is stalled. The talk began six months ago but it seems nothing could get agreed as he felt that City members did not give enough respects to him, according to his agent, Dimitri Seluk. Real Madrid and Chelsea are lurking around to sign him. Source: The Sun

Likely or Unlikely? Even chance. Yaya is aging and still has African Cup of Nation duty, which undermines the City midfield for short but crucial period of time. But is there straight replacement for him?

Lamela, Pjanic? Zabaleta on Tevez Incident and Others

Transfer Mills

• Erik Lamela and Miralem Pjanic were caught under City's radar recently, when Roma beat Genoa 3-1 last week. City Football Development Executive Patrick Vieira was here to check them out and, according to Talksports, two players will strengthen their attacking department behind Aguero and Tevez.
• Out-of-favour Alexis Sanchez has been rumoured to move anywhere after his below-average performance at Camp Nou. City are amongst many other clubs, who are rumoured to sign him. 
• Edin Dzeko's potential move to Dortmund was muted by their general manager, Hans-Joachim Watzke. He said on German broadcasting station Sport 1: Anyone who really believes that a player from Manchester City would be transferred to Borussia Dortmund hasn't understood the BVB business model." He added: "Our motto is to develop young players."
• UAE sensation Omar Abdurahman is staying put, at least for now, after finding out some difficulties on obtaining work permit. Mentioned in the winter transfer, I think, he was star in the UAE Olympic team last year and seems to have a great potential in him to succeed at this level.

Internal News

• Pablo Zabaleta took a moment to look over last year's brawl between Roberto Mancini and Carlos Tevez and believes Tevez has gone back to his best. Quoted from the Daily Star, Zabaleta said: ""It's been difficult for Carlos, for Mancini, for the club. From something small, it grew so big," He continued: "After it happened, everything went crazy and it was so difficult.

        "Everybody makes mistakes. The positive thing is Carlos came back again and the

         commitment for the club and team has been 100 per cent, so that is well done by 

         him.

         "Is he as good as before? Yes, definitely. He got a fantastic goal against Chelsea 

         and he's been great all season."

• Jack Rodwell, Vincent Kompany and Sergio Aguero are all doubtful to play against Barnsley this weekend. Rodwell injured his hamstring again and expects to be sidelined for one month. Meanwhile, Aguero got his knee injured in Monday's training session and Kompany's calf injury is unlikely to be healed in time for the FA cup tie. 

Others

• Diego Maradona urged his son-in-law, Sergio Aguero to move to Real Madrid. Hmmm... I don't think so Hombre. 

MATCH WEEK 28 v Villa (Villa Park, KO 2000)

Closing gap is never easy. This season, in fact, it seems mission impossible for the Blues to overtake United, as they look to be enjoying their life with their talisman RVP.

But City have to march on. Even we do not retain the title this season, there is FA cup up for a grab and surely securing second place will consolidate our stature in EPL. Not as prestigious as last year but at least we have something to play for until the end of season.

Match against Villa at their home has been patchy for City. Apart from last year’s win, all thanks to Lescott, City were not able to get an easy win at Villa Park since City started financial maneouvering from 2007-08 season (Recording 1W 2L 2D). Especially, after the crashing defeat at St Mary, it seemed anything could happen.

Game started with surprisingly live Villa side trying to dominate the game with some fluidities in their play. But with young and inexperienced side like Villa, this was not a good sign as it empirically showed that this can not be sustained over whole 90 minutes. Especially, after Benteke’s towering header from corner blocked off from the line, Villa seemed to be on the slippery slope.

The match came alive ironically when Rodwell was substituted for Dzeko, for his left hamstring injury. Silva’s pass to Zabaleta found a space for the flying Argentine to take shot, which was brilliantly guided towards the post by Guzan. Minutes later, another fine effort was made by Tevez from outside of the box and once again it was Guzan who palmed away our Apache’s shot.

Eventually, the deadlock broke by persistence of Dzeko, as he hustled Clark to dispossess in their own half to regain possession for City. He then found Tevez in the space, who managed to wriggle through Villa’s defense to find back of the net, his ninth goal of the season. 

Courtesy of Guardian 

Second half was not much different from the first half. Villa tried to regain their early dominance but almost conceded another one when Dzeko dispossessed Villa defense in their own half once again and managed to find Tevez with a good angle to work on. Only this time, Tevez could not find back of the net to settle the nerve of away fan.

There was a startling moment for City when Lowton blasted a fierce shot from way out but it was no match to Yaya’s instinctive shooting around the box, which rattled the right hand post of Guzan.

Dull performance overall and it was expected, considering how both of the clubs has been playing throughout the season. Routine performance dully delivered from City and left Villa at the bottom three. Final Score: Aston Villa 0 Manchester City 1

Dzeko Denies Transfer & Balotelli Transfer Saga Continues and More

Dzeko Off to Inter?

Recent speculation of Dzeko joining the Nerazzuri seemed to be another baseless rumour out of no where, as his agent, Irfan Redzepagic, strongly denies the rumour of him moving to Inter. Although he had some thought on moving somewhere else, when Falcao was rumoured to be signed, . As one of most efficient striker in the EPL, City got to keep him for their competitiveness up front.

Never Ending Saga of Mario

Moving. Not moving. Moving. Not Moving.... Now he served notice on his rented four-bedroom house, with the property in Alderley Edge being available since January 11th for £13,495 (€16,000) a month. There is a rumour that Milan might sell French defender Philippe Mexès to fund Mario's transfer fee, while Mario's agent is claiming that he is not going to move in this transfer window. This saga is just never going to end...

Another Keeper? 

So Pontilimon is not good enough to challenge Hart and it is now reported that City are battling against United, who has a big problem in their goalkeeping position, to get Asmir Begovic for £13 million. Seems to be a waste of money for a keeper who is just a good enough to play in a regular club. I would've contemplated on buying same caliber of Thibaut Courtois, who is certainly going to replace Petr Cech at Stamford Bridge in near future but the City's top rank seem to have different idea.

Talent from Middle-East

ClubCall reported that City are monitoring UAE playmaker Omar Abdulrahman after his outstanding Gulf Cup performances. Hamburg and Sporting Lisbon also monitoring this youngster, who gave an impressive performance in London 2012. Dubbed as UAE's own Iniesta, he does look impressive and hopefully City will be able to sign him. 

20130121 Transfer News & More

21 days into the transfer window and nothing much happened. Not just for City but entire transfer market seems to be frozen out. Biggest transfer so far was Daniel Sturridge's move to Anfield with 12 million and Demba Ba's expected departure from St James Park as Chelsea triggers his 8 million pounds transfer clause to get him.

Prior to this transfer window, Mancini made clear that City cannot sell any players, due to injury problem and the African Cup of nations, as Toure brothers will be missing dearly. On the buying side, City's coaching staffs had separate views. After David Platt made comment on unlikeliness of signing player during this transfer window, 48 hours later, Mancini hinted that they might be a signing after all. De Rossi was linked to move to Eastland,as he was rumoured to be falling out with Zeman. There was also a rumour of Wilfried Zaha coming to City but nothing seemed to be capitalized in the end.



Today's paper is suggesting that Balotelli faith will be decided in this week as Guardian hinting on resuming of potential transfer talk to AC Milan, with possible loan move in consideration. If he moves, it will trigger a lot of rumours on signing replacement for Balotelli and it will make a lot of journalists busy guessing who Mancini going to sign next.



Michael Johnson's terrible status was revealed last week and his contract was terminated in immediate effect. Dubbed as City's next Colin Bell, his playing day looked promising from scoring the derby winner in august 2007 but his constant injury stopped him to become what he could have been. Hopefully he will regain his fitness and return to the football scene in near future.

2 Years... It has been a while...

Mission completed... 2 years of military service at Korea Air Force and I am done. It was good experience to work in there and I will never forget my time there.

 

Now football... Both of Ajax matches were shocking and so was West Ham match. Firstly the Ajax debacle. Simply woeful display at away and home. In both ties, City conceded poor goals and did not look comfortable without our primary playmaker Silva. Nasri is a good player but was never able to pull off what Silva used to do for us in daily basis. Disappointing performance all around.

Back in EPL, we faced Swansea and West Ham between the Ajax debacle. Played rather well in both matches. Considering the circumstances, I was glad to see City held up their head up high and managed to maintain unbeaten record for the season. Draw against West Ham was a bit disappointing but it was away game against Sam Allardyce's side, which was a hard match to get the result from.

Then the Tottenham match. Always good match to watch and, as expected, it did not disappoint me. Silva's comeback and Mancini's tactical shift was the key element of victory. Tottenham never looked threatening and apart from their set-piece goal. Shots from Huddlestone and Bale were only real threat to City. 3 at the back worked well, as Spurs seemed unwilling to attack after their goal. Introduction of Maicon seemed Midas touch from Mancini and for the 3rd time of season, Super Dzeko completed City's comeback.

Well that was the catch-up for me. I know my English is shaky and there will be a lot of grammatical mistake as I have not used it for 2 years. Constructive arguments and criticisms are welcome but I do not want baseless denunciations. Thank you.

Dzeko Worries & De Rossi Rumour and More

Don't Worry. Be Happy!

ESPNFC reported that Edin Dzeko is willing to fight for his place even if Roberto Mancini decides to bring in a new attacking option, such as Radamel Falcao, in the next transfer window. Dzeko, often used as a sub, made 10 appearances this season and he scored some vital goals too, such as equalizer against Southampton and winning goal against Fulham. Personally, I think he is quite underrated and must-keep player, especially City have two erratic strikers, Tevez and Balotelli, Dzeko has been relatively consistent enough throughout his City career. Yes he had a bust-up against Mancini, but it seems all feeble against Tevez and Balotelli's affairs.

De Rossi Talk Back On?

Daniele De Rossi is unhappy under new management, according to the Mirror. It is reported that "the Italy grafter has fallen out of love with his home club Roma after new boss Zdenek Zeman's arrival" City tried to sign him in the summer but his announcement of staying at Rome cooled the speculation of him moving to the Eastland. Great player to sign and his addition will help in Yaya Toure's African Nations commitment in coming January. 

Price Hike

Ajax apparently charging €80 (around £64) per ticket for the Group D match on October 24, €15 more than for their meeting with Real Madrid last week. Although there were no complaint over the ticket price, I think Ajax is trying to take an advantage over City's large travelling support. 

Hopefully I did not make many mistakes as last time. Thank you for reading my article.

Apology on My English

I am so sorry about scrappy English. As you all know, English is my second language and since I joined the Korean Air Force 2 years ago, although I tried my best not to forget how to write, it got rusty. If you guys find my fractured English so disturbing, please come forward and correct me, as I need time and help to amend this problem. Thank you.

Balotelli Out Falcao In? And More

Mario Mario Mario.... when will you learn?

Recent burst out really sums up who Mario Balotelli is all about. He is difficult player to control and this blocks his blossom as a great player he can be. City legend Rodney Marsh commented after his another outburst that he is letting City down and want him to be sold and I completely agree with his view as City gave him too many chances to amend his poor mentality. Prodigy got to turn into genuine player. If not he is another player who was unable to handle his talent, just like Adriano.

You Again?

El Hombre from Colombia

Radamel Falcao was the centre of rumour mills during last summer transfer market and now Atletico Madrid's general manager Miguel Angel Gil Marin admits that they would benefit if Colombian striker Radamel Falcao were to be bought out of his contract in the summer. He expects to sell him for £48m which will solve their current financial problem. Too much? Maybe. But If Balotelli is sold and there is other striker to be bought, it's got to be him. With his glamorous record in Los Colchoneros jersey, especially his hat-trick effort against European Super Cup against Chelsea, he would be suitable candidate for City's attacking department. Below video shows the goals he scored last season for Atletico Madrid

You will be welcomed!

                                                  

Youngster signing for City?

Another transfer news is on Wilfried Zaha. He is 19 years old and currently playing in Crystal Palace and England U-21, who can also play for Ivory Coast, as it is his birth place. Playing as winger and for development sake, he would be a good signing for the future, especially he is only 19. Below video shows his performance in 2011-12 season for Crystal Palace

MCFC v Sunderland (1245 GMT)

Line-up

Man City: Hart, Zabaleta, Kolarov, Richards, Lescott, Milner, Barry, Silva, Y Toure, Balotelli, Tevez. Subs: Clichy, K Toure, Rodwell, Nasri, Aguero, Dzeko, Pantilimon.

Sunderland: Mignolet, Gardner, Rose, Cuellar, O'Shea, Colback, Larsson, Johnson, McClean, Sessegnon, Fletcher. Subs: Campbell, Kilgallon, Vaughan, Meyler, Bramble, Saha, Westwood.

Referee: Lee Probert

Match Report

1st half

Clear autumn sky seemed perfect day for football. Unfortunately the match itself didn't level the weather itself. though City cruised the 1st half with ease, due to lack of threat from Sunderland made it even easier.

It was City started with goal, when Tevez was poorly challenged by cuellar just outside of the penalty box. Mario Balotelli and Alexandr Kolarov once again stood and discussed who should take it. It was Kolarov who took it and found left top corner of goal. He now scored 3 times from free-kick spot

Courtesy of MCFC Official Facebook

Then Sunderland had one of few meaningful attack of 1st half, when they got deflected free-kick from outside the box, which then volleyed by Stephan Sessegnon. Although it did not threat Joe Hart at any level, it was not a bad attempt for Beninese international.

There were few occasions where Mario Balotelli and Craig Gardner collided against each other. Most of them were unintentional foul from Gardner's half and Balotelli didn't react that badly as last season.

1st half itself was dull and boring as both sides cancelled each others out. Numerous criticisms were made after Dortmund match but nothing changed in performance wise. Lacking passing accuracy was usual repertoire, positioning looked poor throughout the 1st half. Let's hope for improvement in the 2nd half.

2nd Half 

The team turned inside out in team-talk at the break. Scoring 2 goals were ordinary thing for City, but in the manner of doing so was exquisite 

Second half did not start well for City though, as Barry lost the ball in the middle of the park which allowed Sebastian Larsson to find Steven Fletcher in the box. Luckily Hart saved it but the mood could have swung towards Sunderland if that would have got in.

From that point onward, it was City all the way. Chance after chance, only if they executed them precisely, the score margin could have been larger. 

Courtesy of MCFC Official Facebook

The turning point was substitution ironically. Although Mario Balotelli was trying best to score, his style seemed against City's run of play. Then Sergio Aguero came in and whole thing changed around. City's attacking department suddenly clicked and eventually at 58th minute, Sergio Aguero scored from Alexandr Kolarov's well-timed cross. 

The domination continued until the end of the match and Sunderland seemed powerless to neutralize City's fire power. At 89th minute, Milner's ferocious free kick goal rounded up City's great 2nd half performance and Mignolet seemed relieved to hear the final whistle of the match. 

First cleansheet for City and Joe Hart and unbeaten record continues. Hopefully the season gets better from this match. 

Final Score: Manchester City 3 Sunderland 0

Man of the match: Alexandr Kolarov for being consistent threat throughout the match.

Weekend Preview Match Day No. 7

Courtesy of MCFC Official Facebook

The Borussian Problem

Watching Dortmund match was the most excruciating experience since I started to watch city match in 2007. Especially in the second half, City seemed very lazy at a time and if it wasn't Hart's brilliance in front of countless Dortmund attack, Gotze & Reus in particular, City could have conceded double digit. Frustrating performance all around the squad and I really do sympathize with Hart's anger against the rest of the squad. 

His anger reminds of Iker Casillas in 2006 when he had to make string of brilliant saves to guide them to the La Liga title. But then Real lacked in defenders at that time. Likes of Pavon and aging Helguera & Cannavaro, the team were deemed to concede numerous chances against their opponents. With Kompany struggling and Mancini indecisive on 3 or 4 backs, I could see Hart mourning in every post match interview.

v Sunderland

Remember what happened last time? Well surely not this time right? Especially City are chasing Chelsea with 4 points behind and midweek Champions League misery, this is kind of match that City must win to change the mood in the dressing room.

The away record of Sunderland is particularly encouraging. Since 25th of February, away match against WBA, their record is 7Ds 4Ls. Also, since the investment was made in 2008, City looked pretty dominant against Sunderland at home.

But those facts are meaningless when the squad is beaten up like this. Apart from Joe Hart, none of the core member of title winning squad are firing all cylinders. Kompany looks shaky from the start of season and Silva looked knackered from summer international duty, especially he exhausted prior to the Euro already and rest of the squad haven't been as consistent as last year.

Courtesy of MCFC Official Facebook

Having said that City did get the result out of the current circumstance and they always had someone to deliver something special to win the match and City showed their resilience against their shortcomings during this season.

For Sunderland their talismen are Adam Johnson and Steven Fletcher. Fletcher in particular is one to look at, as he is now scoring 7 out of 7 league matches. Hope City's defense are up to the task in early morning kick off.


http://tiny.cc/wiwqlw - Guardian Squad Sheet
http://tiny.cc/dkwqlw - Telegraph on City's plan on new training ground
http://tiny.cc/ymwqlw - Telegraph Match Preview
http://tiny.cc/xpwqlw - ESPN Match Preview
http://tiny.cc/grwqlw - BBC Match Preview
http://tiny.cc/2wwqlw - Independent Match Preview
http://tiny.cc/tn2qlw - Independent's article on Adam Johnson Comment

Changing Scene: Revival

Coming back from exile...

Well... It has been a while. Since our defeat against Arsenal in 2010 at home, which was my last post before joining the Korean Air Force, so many thing changed in the past 2 years. We won the Premiere league at last, which was a lot faster than I expected and unsurprisingly we got knocked out of Champions League at the group stage. We were in the tough group (incomparable to this season's group though) but I thought we could have done better by beating Napoli at home, which was difference in the end.


 

During my military service, I was quite busy doing work and according to Korean military rule, all privates are not allowed to express their own opinion, as it can be shown as representation of entire force. This prevented me running my blog for 2 years and stuck as an ordinary spectator, which does not feel good at all.



I will restart my blog as soon as I recuperate from minor injury. See you soon!

MCFC v Arsenal (1600 GMT)

25/10/2010 City of Manchester Stadium Att: 47393

Man City: Hart, Richards, Boyata, Kompany, Boateng, Silva, Toure Yaya, De Jong, Barry, Milner, Tevez.
Subs: Given, Bridge, Adebayor, Adam Johnson, Lescott, Vieira, Balotelli.
Arsenal: Fabianski, Sagna, Djourou, Squillaci, Clichy, Nasri, Fabregas, Song, Denilson, Arshavin, Chamakh.
Subs: Szczesny, Koscielny, Rosicky, Walcott, Eboue, Gibbs, Bendtner.
Referee: Mark Clattenburg (Tyne & Wear)

I will be away for 8 weeks, doing some military stuffs (it's compulsory) and this will be last match post for me before I join Air Force.

City's ceremony prior to this match was wonderful thing to do for our legend Malcolm Allison, who past away last week. He was one of most successful manager for Manchester City and he won League Cup, FA Cup, Division One title and European Winners Cup. We will all miss him.

City started with Boyata due to Kolo's lengthy injury continues. Otherwise, it was full-strength squad for the Blues. After much needed rest, Carlito replaces hat-trick hero Adebayor and Yaya Toure came back with full fitness.

For Arsenal, Djourou kept his place in front of Koscielny. Otherwise, it was full-strength Arsenal team.

City could've scored in the first minute, when Tevez out-muscles Djourou to win the ball and cross it to Silva. Silva's clever flick, however, was well held by Fabianski.

Then the disaster struck. Boyata was sent off, as he tripped Chamakh just outside of the City penalty box and because he was the last man, Mark Clattenberg had no choice but send him off.

However, his sent off did not turn off City's attacking mentality. In 17th minute, City almost benefited from Arsenal defense's indecisiveness as Silva and Tevez wrestled with them. Tevez's eventual shot was too weak to challenge Fabianski but City looked more likely to score then the opponent.

Minutes later though, Arsenal found their way to score as Nasri and Arshavin pulled a beautiful 1-2 passes to break City's barrier. Barry's pace let him down, as he failed to track back Nasri. 0-1 Arsenal

It could've been 2-0 before the break, when Kompany unnecessarily fouled Fabregas in City's penalty box. Luckily, Hart was on form today and he was able to save Fabregas' penalty for City to stay alive.

0-1 HT

Bad news came during the second half. Yaya looked to have a knock and was forced to replace with Wayne Bridge during the interval. Ten minutes after the start of second half, Tevez looked to have a injury as well and this diminished City's overall quality on the field.

In the 66th minute, it was substitute Bridge made fatal error inside penalty box, which led to Arsenal's 2nd goal of the match. Excellent strike by Alex Song but it could've been dealt better by former England fullback.

City seemed ragged after the second goal and after series of goal scoring opportunity by Arsenal, they finally scored and it was Bendtner who finished off City's worst defeat of the season so far.

Overall, City looked okay even without Boyata but there were too much talents in the Arsenal squad to miss out the chance to win this game. Certainly 48 hours did not look enough for City players to prepare for this game, as they seemed very tired time to time. I just wish Tevez and Yaya's injury aren't too serious.

City v Liverpool (2000 GMT)

24/08/2010 Venue: City of Manchester Stadium Att: 47,087

Starting Line up

Man City: Hart, Richards, Toure, Kompany, Lescott, De Jong, Toure Yaya, Barry, Milner, Adam Johnson, Tevez. Subs: Given, Zabaleta, Wright-Phillips, Adebayor, Silva, Vieira, Jo.

Liverpool: Reina, Johnson, Skrtel, Carragher, Agger, Jovanovic, Gerrard, Lucas, Kuyt, Torres, Ngog. Subs: Jones, Aurelio, Pacheco, Kyrgiakos, Maxi, Babel, Poulsen.

Referee: Phil Dowd (Staffordshire)

It was many worries that City play against Liverpool, as they drew 5 times against them in 7 encounters. Especially after a poor performance against Spurs last weekend, I really did not expect today's comprehensive performance.

City, as starting line above shows, were without Balotelli, due to his foot injury and Kolarov and Boateng, who still to make his debut, missing due to ankle and foot injuries. Liverpool were unchanged, apart from Mascherano, who is speculated to move away from the Kops.

Match

It was the performance I never expected. Throughout the game, City were more creative and willing to get the ball. Right from the start, City dominated and, on 13th minutes, Gareth Barry scored after clever works from Adam Johnson and James Milner in the right wing, which made the goal possible.

Despite some efforts from Liverpool, they continued to struggle to dominate. After some tremendous midfield display from our 3 "defensive midfielders" Liverpool weren't able to challenge Joe Hart during the 1st half. Complete turnaround from Spurs match.

City continued to break in the second half and after absorbing Liverpool's possession, it was Tevez, who scored from the corner, which was initially headed towards the net by Micah Richards. 2-0 and it seemed Liverpool were done at City of Manchester Stadium.

Not quite though. After 2nd goal, Liverpool moved with more urgency and they almost found back of the net via their talisman Steven Gerrard, David N'gog and Fernando Torres but their shot put away by either the post or Hart's brilliance. City's defense held Liverpool at bay, whereas our attack came up once against through tip-toeing feet of Johnson, who earned the penalty via Skrtel's clumsiness. Tevez converted it and it was game over from that point. Sheikh Mansour. Did you enjoy that?

3-0
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Spurs v MCFC (1245 GMT)

14/08/2010 Venue: White Hart Lane Att: 35928

Starting Line up

Tottenham: Gomes, Corluka, Dawson, King, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon, Modric, Huddlestone, Bale, Crouch, Defoe. Subs: Cudicini, Kaboul, Pavlyuchenko, Keane, Palacios, Giovani, Bassong.
Man City: Hart, Richards, Toure, Kompany, Kolarov, Wright-Phillips, Toure Yaya, De Jong, Barry, Silva, Tevez. Subs: Given, Zabaleta, Adebayor, Adam Johnson, Lescott, Vieira, Jo.
Referee: Andre Marriner (W Midlands)

Quite a crucial match for Manchester City at the start of season. It was just a few months ago that they were lost out in Champions League qualifying spots by Tottenham Hotspur. In the past seasons, City looked vulnerable against Spurs side in general and especially at away match, City were unable to beat Spurs since 2003.

As expected, there were three débutantes from City (Silva, Kolarov and Y. Toure) and it was only Jerome Boateng who missed the match due to injury. The most surprising inclusion in the starting line-up was Joe Hart, who had an excellent loan spell with Birmingham City. As poor form of Shay Given continued from January onwards, I guess Roberto Mancini had to give Hart a try. Two other things that which came a shock to me was three defensive midfielders and playing SWP instead of Adam Johnson.

Match

First half was completely dominated by Spurs and City was lucky to finish the half without conceding a single goal. After possessing the ball from the start of the match, Jermaine Defoe came close to score after receiving pass from Aaron Lennon but it was turned away by Hart and it was only the start of Hart's brilliance. Between 11th minute and 32th minute, Hart had to make six excellent saves to keep City in the game.

So what was wrong with City? Personally, Micah Richards was the villain, as he showed too much space to flying Gareth Bale. Also, squad as a whole did not do any pressing when Spurs were in possession throughout the first half.

Second half was slightly better and City should've scored in the opening minute when SWP had clear chance in front of keeper but he squandered it badly. After that, there were some glimpse of hopes on goals from either side (Roman Pavlyuchenko in particular) but none of them overcome Hart.

Arabian Job: Season 3

So here it is people. Just a few hours away from the kick off and I am sitting in my room, enjoying the sound of rainfall.

1245 kick off was never my favourite when I was in England because it meant I had to wake up 9 o'clock in the weekend to prepare myself for the match. But this does not bother me anymore, as I am in 8 hours ahead from England.

City finally got who they want and I am not sure what Mario will bring into the squad that is struggling to blend at the moment. Never doubt his ability though. Once everything settles, i.e. after transfer deadline and submitting 25 men squad list, I am sure he will show what he got.

Four players set to make a debut today (Kolarov, Silva, Boateng and Y.Toure) and they all expect to play pivotal role for the team. Especially, Kolarov and Boateng will strengthen City's poor full back position.

Expected line-up: Given, Boateng, K.Toure, Kompany, Kolarov, Y.Toure, Barry, Silva, Johnson, Tevez and Adebayor

P.S. It will be 400th appearances for Gareth Barry, if he makes appearance today. Many congratulation on his achievement.

Friendly Just Friendly...

Rant

Finally... My laptop is fixed and I just hope this thing can keep up until I start my National Service in Korea.

Seems nothing much happened when I was away for 2 weeks.... NOT! I certainly did not expect Joe Cole to move to Liverpool and I am still amazed Arsenal still did not let Cesc Fabregas go to his beloved club Barcelona (Well it is long away til the end of the summer transfer window).

So what about City? As usual, they have been the most active team in the Premier League, as they signed most players in the market so far and with a month to go, they are still linked with top prospects, such as Mario Balotelli or Fernando Torres or even Didier Drogba.Those rumours are still to be materialised but I'm sure there will be another big signing before the end of August.

Friendly against Sporting Lisbon

Well.... prior to this match, I didn't expect much from City players, as they didn't bring out their best option or new signings. What I found out after this match is that City's management team got a lot of work to do between now and the end of august, as they have so many fringe players to get rid of. I would not be surprised to see last night's team, apart from Patrick Vieira, Adam Johnson and Joe Hart, be sold to other club within a month time.

Manchester City 0 Sporting Lisbon 2

CITY: Hart, Richards, Kompany, Lescott (Onuoha 46mins), Cunningham (Bridge 45); Ireland (Boyata 64), Vieira (Tchuimeni-Nimely 64), Zabaleta, A.Johnson, Jo (Tutte 74), Bellamy (Guidetti 74). Subs not used: Taylor.

LISBON: Ferreira, Carrico, Polga, Fabiano, Mendes (Santos 87), Ribeiro, Saleiro, Djalo, Postiga (Veloso 79), Pereira, Vukcevic (Valdes 74). Subs: Patricio, Sinama-Pongolle, Liedson, Coelho.

REFEREE: Kevin Stott (USA)

Goals: Sporting - Djalo (23mins and 39mins)

Bookings: Sporting - Carrico (43 mins)