Tag: Ronaldo

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Football (Premier League)

Teams That Have Qualified for the World Cup

The World Cup is a tournament that comes around once every 4 years. The biggest prize in Football. As big a sporting event as you can get. The one coveted prize that every player wants to have. This time the special tournament is being held in Qatar in winters. Beginning in the middle of November and ending in December. This is going to be the final World Cup of many old stars and will be the first one of many young ones. The FIFA World Cup is the most-watched sporting event all over the world. And this year won’t be any exception to that rule as well. Most of the teams that will play have already qualified. Here is the list of teams from each continent that have qualified for the World Cup up to now

Europe:

1. England

The one time World Cup winners have a great squad this year. And have proven that they can do well in the international tournaments now. By proving their worth in 2018 World Cup, where they reached the semis and reaching the finals in Euro 2021. They are very strong on paper.

England
England World Cup

2. Germany

The Germans are always there in the World Cup. The record winners of the competition in Europe. They are a force to be reckoned with due to having a good talent pool and a world class manager in Hansi Flick, which makes all the difference. The Germans will be fighting for the title desperately.

3. France

Perhaps, the favorites of this year’s edition. The former winners have a very squad strong on paper. And, they would like to negate the terrible Euro’s they had. France are the strong favourite for World Cup, but that’s not how football works. It will be a great experience following them in this year’s edition.

4. Netherlands

The Dutch have qualified for the World Cup by winning their group. They didn’t qualify for the last World Cup, which was held in Russia. The team led by Virgil Van Dijk will be gunning for this year’s edition and will hope to bring their country their first-ever World Cup.

5. Serbia

The serbians surprisingly topped their qualification group, which consisted of Portugal. Even so, they have a good squad which gives them a fighting chance. Their supporters would be in an absolutely joyous mood and will enjoy the ride.

6. Croatia

The last time’s finalists. The country led by Luka Modric is perhaps not as strong as they were in the last edition. But they’ve still got good talent and a very strong midfield of Kovacic and Modric. They will fight with everything they have.

7. Belgium

This is maybe the last World Cup of Belgium’s golden generation. And, their final chance at glory. Belgium have a very strong squad. With Kevin De Bruyne, Lukaku, Eden Hazard and Thorgan Hazard. The last time’s semi finalists will be looking to go all the way this year.

Belgium World Cup
Belgium World Cup

8. Spain

The one time World Cup winners had a pretty bad World Cup last time around. The Spanish were facing a lot of struggles and failures in the recent past. But, the arrival of Luis Enrique has changed their fate. They now look like a very good squad with great system. And they will be looking for redemption this year.

9. Denmark

Euro’s semi finalists. The Dane’s are perhaps the dark horses of this year’s World Cup. They have a very able squad on paper. They will be looking to get something out of this year’s edition.

10. Switzerland

The Swiss have a very able team as well. Their midfield can dominate anyone on a given day. They have a fighting chance at this World Cup, and will be fun following them around for their supporters.

11. Portugal

Most probably the last World Cup of Cristiano Ronaldo’s career. The only prize that eludes him over his very, very illustrious career. The Portugal team is as good as it has ever been on paper. They will be gunning for this World Cup. And Ronaldo will want to lead them to glory this year. They are good contenders in this edition.

Portugal world cup
Portugal world cup

12. Poland

Team led by Robert Lewandowski. Poland aren’t a very strong squad. But they will be giving their all in this year’s edition. And put on a show that their fans will remember for ages.

One of Wales, Scotland, or Ukraine will complete the set of European qualifications by June.

South America:

 

1. Brazil

The number 1 ranked team in the world at the moment. Brazil has a very strong squad. And are probably the favorites alongside France for this year’s World Cup. The record winners have qualified for every single World Cup ever. And, it wouldn’t be a World Cup with Brazil. They will absolutely favor their chances and will hope to achieve the Coveted Prize.

2. Argentina

This is probably Lionel Messi’s last World Cup as well. He will be absolutely desperate for it. The only prize that has eluded the great man so far. He will look to rewrite the history in 2014 when he lost the final. This is probably the best Argentinian team there has been in his career, and he will look to lead them to glory.

Argentina world cup
Argentina world cup

3. Ecuador

Ecuador are not very strong on paper. But they will be fighting for their lives in this World Cup and look to salvage anything they can.

4. Uruguay

Uruguay has a very good squad. And this is probably the last World Cup of their lethal strike partnership in Edison Cavani and Luis Suarez. They will be hoping to have a strong return in this World Cup.

Peru have a chance of becoming the fifth team from South America to qualify in June.

Uruguay world cup
Uruguay world cup

North America/ Caribbean:

1. USA

This is the best team USA has ever produced. They have a plethora of talent coming through their ranks. And, will be one of watch out this season. Potential dark horses of the tournament. The big countries shouldn’t underestimate USA this year.

2. Canada

A big moment for the Canadians. They are a good squad on paper, with Alphonso Davies being their star. They will bring the fight to the other teams.

Canada World Cup
Canada World Cup

3. Mexico

Mexico has a fairly competitive team this time around. They will look to test the other teams and hopefully make it far in this tournament.

Costa Rica has a chance of becoming the 4th team from the continent later in the qualifiers.

Africa:

1. Senegal

The strongest team in Africa. The current AFCON champions. Senegal are not to be underestimated in this year’s edition. They have a very strong squad spearheaded by Sadio Mane. They will be a dangerous opponent for everyone.

2. Ghana

Ghana qualified for this World Cup by beating the favorites in Nigeria. They have a good squad. With a strong midfield. They will bring the fight to everyone they face in this World Cup.

3. Tunisia

Tunisia will strive to make this a World Cup their fans will remember for the rest of their lives. They are a good team who will hope to achieve great things this year.

4. Morocco

Morocco will be gunning for this year’s edition. They will be striving to achieve great things this year. They will bring the fight to everyone that faces them. Their fans will hope they have a good tournament.

5. Cameroon

Cameroon beat Algeria in the most dramatic fashion to qualify for the World Cup. It was an absolute roller coaster ride for everyone watching that game. Cameroon have shown that they can battle it out with the stronger teams. And they will strive to achieve great things in this World Cup.

Asia:

1. Qatar

The hosts which have automatically qualified for the World Cup. This will be their first-ever World Cup, and will be looking to salvage something out of it.

2. Iran

The Iran team looks good on paper. This is their 6th World Cup, and they will be bringing the fight to everyone.

3. Japan

The Japanese have a good squad. And are very well-rounded. They will be hoping to achieve great things in this year’s World Cup.

4. South Korea

This will be their 11th World Cup. Which is the highest amongst Asian teams. The South Korean team lead by Heung Min Son, is a strong outfit and can surprise anyone.

5. Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Arabians will look to give their supporters a World Cup to be cherished. They will be striving for a strong finish.

The two teams from Oceania, which are Australia and New Zealand, also have a chance at qualifying for the World Cup. Which will be decided in June.

Also Read: Barcelona vs Cadiz: Match Highlights, Scores And Much More.

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Football (Premier League)

Top 10 Most Expensive Lineups in Football History

Most Expensive Football Teams
The Transfer Market is open for business.

The transfer market shut close in January this past year, and we are now almost towards the end of the season. The UEFA Champions League and the rest of the European leagues will soon begin wrapping up their remaining fixtures. The inflated nature of the transfer market in football has given rise to some absurdly high valuations of squads. Over the years, football’s popularity has grown exponentially. Along with that popularity came the demand for superstar players and lucrative merchandising opportunities. These factors gave rise to some of the most expensive lineups assembled. Let us take a better look at the top 10 most expensive lineups in football history.

The secret to a successful team in football is the quality of the players. A team of brilliant and compatible players can raise a team’s worth from ashes to superstardom. However, with great quality comes a hefty price tag for the player. Footballing prodigies nowadays come with astronomical fees in tow. After all, these are the players who help the team gain that prestige and, in turn, championships.

10. Tottenham Hotspur:

Squad Size: 22 Squad Value: £522.23m League: Premier League

This season, with the transfers of Emerson Royal at the right back to replace the outgoing Serge Aurier, Rodrigo Bentancur at the middle of the park, and Dejan Kulusevski on loan from Juventus, certainly bolstered the Tottenham squad. The departure of club mainstay Dele Alli proved to be an integral turning point for the club. Many fans and pundits alike believed he was not performing at the level desired at the club. The arrival of new sporting director Fabio Paratici last year, together with the new acquisition of manager Antonio Conte, further allowed world-class players to join the likes of Harry Kane, Heung-Min Son, and Lucas Moura. The Kane-Son partnership has proven lethal this season. The duo broke the all-time record of goal combinations previously held by Chelsea legends Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard. Furthermore, Harry Kane, along with Heung-Min Son, are also two of the most expensive players in their respective positions. As a pure striker Harry Kane is the most valuable player in that role based on national duties.

A series of new signings, together with the presence of players like Kane and Son, place Tottenham Hotspurs in the 10th position in our list of the top 10 most expensive lineups in football history.

Tottenham Squad consists of one of the top 10 most expensive strikers today
The addition of Bentancur and Royal certainly pushed their squad towards the more expensive side.

9. Atlético de Madrid:

Squad Size: 22 Squad Value: £581.85mLeague: La Liga

With the methodical victory over Manchester United this past week at the grandest stage of club football, the UEFA Champions League, Diego Simione and co. proved their worth once again when it mattered the most. Along with it, they certainly justified the money that they had splashed. The signing of Portuguese sensation Joao Felix for a record £ 112.9m from Benfica is an example.

Further, they went on to add the likes of Luis Suarez from Barcelona on a free transfer. More recently, the additions of Rodrigo De Paul for a sum of £31.50m from Udinese Calcio of Serie A and Antoine Griezmann on a loan transfer from Barcelona bolstered their squad for the season. These expensive signings have certainly paid off since they won the La Liga last year, competing against the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona. Moreover, this year they have managed to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Furthermore, they are looking to pull off an upset win against one of the giants of the Premier League: Manchester City.

With a record-breaking signing of 2019 in a bid to secure the future, and the acquisition of star players throughout, Diego Simione has gathered a lineup that can topple any giants. Atlético de Madrid is 9th on our list.

Atletico Madrid Squad boasting their top most expensive signing Joao Felix
Atletico Madrid this season have proved a credible threat all over

8. FC Barcelona:

Squad Size: 30 Squad Value: £585.90m League: La Liga

With the shocking departure of the club and footballing legend Lionel Messi, the squad of Barcelona took a massive hit both in the form of morale and performance. Without Messi at the helm and heart of the squad, FC Barcelona seemed in shambles. However, things have taken a turn for the better with the arrival of another, Xavi as the team’s new manager. Xavi being a bonafide Barcelona FC legend, has seemingly taken control of the nervy locker room.

Recently the team is on an 11-game unbeaten streak in La Liga. Additionally, their recent form in Europa League is certainly proving the squad value of Barcelona FC as one of the top 10 most expensive lineups. The return of Ousmane Dembele and the new signings of Ferran Torres for a sum of £49.50m from Manchester City, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Arsenal, and Adama Traore from Wolverhampton Wanderers, boosted the squad value exponentially. Adding to the list is the Golden Boy winner, Pedri, Frenkie De Jong, and Ansu Fati all contribute to a high valuation of the squad.

An impressive form under the new manager and Barcelona legend Xavi, the squad finds themselves invigorated. The relatively young squad of FC Barcelona places 8th on our top 10 most expensive football lineup list.

fcbarcelona among the top 10 most expensive lineup
Barcelona on an 11 game unbeaten run in La Liga

7. Real Madrid:

Squad Size: 26 Squad Value: £702.00m League: La Liga

Real Madrid has always boasted a superstar lineup worthy of being amongst the top 10 most expensive lineups. There was a time when the Galacticos consisted of Ronaldo Nazario, Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham, Raul, Iker Cassilas, Luis Figo and Roberto Carlos. A dream team, to say the least, and it has since maintained the legendary status of the squad. With the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo in 2018, the squad took a massive hit. However, they quickly responded with the signing of Eden Hazard from Chelsea. Unfortunately, injuries plagued him, and he was not able to fully perform his Chelsea days magic. Nonetheless, the squad still consists of the likes of Luka Modric, a Balon D’Or winner, Vinicius Junior, Thibaut Courtois, Gareth Bale, and the talisman Karim Benzema. 

The departures of Ronaldo in 2018 and then Sergio Ramos in 2021 left a void for leadership in the locker room. It was Karim Benzema, with his inspiring leadership and performance, who is intent on returning the European glory back to Real Madrid. Real Madrid is 7th on our list of top 10 most expensive football lineups.

Real madrid has always boasted an expensive lineup
Real Madrid’s Modric and Benzema have proven themselves to be integral to the team’s success.

6. Manchester United:

Squad Size: 26 Squad Value: £711.23m League: Premier League

Brand new signings, a new interim manager, and the return of a legend. The 2021-22 season of Manchester United had everything dreams are made of. However, things have not turned out great for the Red Devils. The firing of interim manager turned permanent manager Ole Gunnar Solksjaer certainly paved the way for a much more tactical style of play under new interim manager Ralf Ragnick. However, aging players and the lack of a solid holding midfield player have impeded their success.

Also Read: Manchester United Eyes 23-Year-Old Defender

Nonetheless, the season saw some brilliant signings in the form of Jadon Sancho, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Raphael Varane. They were also able to secure the signature of Edinson Cavani, who further added his worth to the clubs’ value. Overall, Manchester United, since their glory days, boasted high-caliber players who are either homegrown in their academy or attracted by the legacy of Manchester United. The present valuation of the players places Manchester United 6th on our list.

Man Utd as one the expensive squads today
Manchester United have been dismal in their 2021-22 season

5. Bayern Munich:

Squad Size: 26 Squad Value: £733.73m League: Bundesliga

Bayern Munich has become an unstoppable force in European competitions. They have developed an attacking style of play akin to steamrolling through opposition. Their resounding victory over RB Salzburg in the Champions League reminded us of what Bayern are capable of. In addition to their new manager Julian Nagelsmann, Bayern has increased their ranks with defender Dayot Upamecano and attacking midfielder Marcel Sabitzer.

The new signings, along with the likes of Alphonso Davies, Joshua Kimmich, and Robert Lewandowski, help boost up the squad valuation. At a whopping £733.73m squad evaluation, Bayern Munich is amongst the top 5 most expensive lineups in the world.

Bayern has one of the most expensive lineups in the world with Neur, Lewandowski and Sane
Muller and Lewandowski have been crucial pillars of Bayern Munich

4. Chelsea:

Squad Size: 27 Squad Value: £794.70m League: Premier League

The arrival of Romelu Lukaku from Inter Milan for a sum of £101.70m was one of the highlights of the 2021 transfer market. Chelsea has experienced massive success in the European competitions, winning the Champions league 2020-21. The presence of superstar players like Jorginho, Mason Mount, Kai Havertz, and Eduoard Mendy certainly help stake their claim as one of the best teams in Europe. In recent events concerning the Ukraine-Russia war, according to the statement released by Chelsea FC on their official website, owner Roman Abramovich has decided to sell the club. 

Nevertheless, the squad value has not taken any hit. The leadership of Thomas Tuchel as the manager also played an important factor. He is playing a crucial role in holding the team together in these uncertain times for the club. Chelsea ranks 4th amongst the top 10 most expensive lineups in history.

Chelesa have been successful in European Competitions
Chelsea F.C. are looking for new owners with Roman Abrahimovich being sanctioned by the EU.

3. Liverpool FC:

Squad Size: 27 Squad Value: £800.10m League: Premier League

Jurgen Klopp was appointed as the man in charge for Liverpool FC in 2015. In that time, he has transformed the team into a serial winning team capable of toppling any team in the world. Over the years, Jurgen Klopp made several signings. Some of them didn’t work out as planned. However, the signing of Sadio Mane, Mohammed Salah, Roberto Firmino, Fabinho, and most importantly, Virgil Van Dijk worked wonders for LFC. The solidity provided by Virgil Van Dijk at the back, coupled with the sweeper-keeping style of Alison, gave LFC much-needed stability. As often said, goals win matches, but defense wins trophies.

The current success that Liverpool FC experienced has been nothing short of remarkable. They are well worthy of carrying a tag of around £800m squad value. Liverpool FC is the 3rd most expensive squads in football history.

Liverpool are amongst the top 3 most expensive lineups in football history
Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp has transformed into a championship winning team

2. Paris Saint Germain:

Squad Size: 35 Squad Value: £818.60m League: Ligue 1

Like Thanos collecting the infinity stones, PSG set out in 2021 to collect the brightest and most expensive stones money can buy. Undoubtedly, the shocking transfer of Lionel Messi rocked the footballing world to its core. Nobody expected Barcelona FC to not be able to resign Lionel Messi after his contract expired. However, a tryst with destiny enabled the transfer of Lionel Messi to PSG, reuniting him with his friend Neymar.

Along with Messi, PSG went on to sign, Gianluigi Donnarumma, Sergio Ramos, Achraf Hakimi, Georginio Wijnaldum, Nuno Mendes and Danillo Pereira. However, it has not been a season worth remarking for PSG. A poor second leg game in the Champions League dumped them out of the competition at the hands of Real Madrid. Moreover, their league form has also been inconsistent. With news circulating that Mauricio Pochentino might be sacked, PSG is in a dire situation. Nonetheless, their squad value remains untouched, and PSG is the second most expensive lineup in football history.

PSG have splashed money and assembled an expensive lineup
PSG with the record new signings formng their own dream team

1. Manchester City:

Squad Size: 22 Squad Value: £879.57m League: Premier League

No other club comes close to the squad valuation of Manchester City. The likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, Phil Foden, and the recent acquisition of Jack Grealish, but the Cityzens at the top of the mountain in regards to the most expensive squad in the world. In addition to having the most expensive squad in the world, Manchester City has won their league titles 5 times. Ever since the club’s takeover by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2008, Manchester City has emerged as a major threat.

However, the only success that has eluded Manchester City is that of European glory. This season Pep Guardiola and his Cityzens will surely look forward to make it a priority.

The Manchester City squad ranks as the most expensive lineup ever assembled in football history.

 

Manchester city are the most expensive squad in football history
Manchester City have enjoyed tremendous success and rightly justified their squad value

Also Read: Top 10 Greatest Manchester United Players of All Time

Categories
Football (Premier League)

Top 10 Greatest Manchester United Players of All Time

United
Old Trafford from the sky

Manchester United A.K.A “The Red Devils” are one of the biggest clubs in the world. And, they are the second biggest club in England. The red side of Manchester has seen them lift Three champions league. United have won the most league titles in England, which is 20. A club that saw its most successful period under the management of Sir Alex Ferguson. Sir Alex made United a force to be reckoned with in all of Europe. And as a result cemented his legacy as one of the, if not the greatest manager in the history of the Beautiful Game. United haven’t won a league title since Sir Alex retired from management. They have seen a downfall over the last 9 years due to bad management and recruitment systems. But you can’t keep a club of their stature down for long. They will rise again and challenge for the titles in the upcoming seasons. So, presenting here a list of the Top 10 greatest Manchester United Players of All Time.

10. Cristiano Ronaldo

When United signed this 18-year-old skillful Portuguese winger, no one would’ve known how great he’ll end up being. Regarded by many as the greatest player to have ever played the game. Cristiano arrived at United with expectations you don’t normally associate with a teenager, but boy did he shatter those expectations and more. The great man is the highest scorer in the history of football. He has netted 807 goals* for club and country. He is the top goal scorer in international football, and is only a short matter of time before he becomes the highest at the club level as well. The man has won Five champions league and Five Ballon D’or s. And won three league titles in a row at Manchester United. The young winger was a joy to behold at Man United. He had everything: skillful dribbling, long-range goals, headers, weak foot goals; furthermore he used to be a mesmerizing free-kick taker. His free-kick highlight at United is still an absolute joy for the eyes. Ronaldo won a Ballon D’or at United, nobody has won it in the Premier League since then.

Ronaldo
Ronaldo celebrating

Now 37 years old, he has returned to United again to help them back into glory days, but they will be going trophy-less this season as well. Although, the great man will try to will them to trophies in the upcoming season. He ranks 10th on this list of the greatest Manchester United Players of All Time.

9. Roy Keane

Former captain of the club. The man left everything out on the pitch. Definition of the word “professional”. He is the joint-most successful Irish player of all time. Keane was inducted in the Premier League hall of fame in 2021, cementing his place among the greats. Seven premier leagues, 4 FA Cups, and a Champions League at United. And that famous treble in 1999. Roy Keane, with his great legacy and all his accolades, ranks 9th in this list of the greatest Manchester United Players of All Time.

8. Peter Schmeichel

The big Dane was an integral part of the United setup. His insane reach and reflexes separated him from his peers. A goalkeeping legend, still to this day the only goalkeeper to have won Prem player of the season. Thus, cementing his legacy as one of the greats of the game. Peter has everything you wanted from your keeper. He made great saves and was a great leader at the back. It is safe to say that United wouldn’t have won what they won had it not been for the colossus Dane at the back.

Peter Schmeichel

Peter Schmeichel

Also Read: Top 10 Greatest Barcelona Players of All Time

7. Dennis Law

Dennis Law was named the Lawman and the King by the united faithful. The man that is the only Scottish player to win the Ballon D’or. The third-highest scorer in the history of the club after Bobby Charlton and Wayne Rooney. He netted 237 times in 404 appearances for them. One of the part of the United ‘Holy Trinity’. You have to be really special for a statue of yours to be erected as a united player after having played for City. That should give you an idea of how special Dennis Law was. A great player and a great goal-scorer.

6. Eric Cantona

Who doesn’t know about Eric Cantona. The man that started United’s dominance. The French was a joy to watch on the ball. He demanded attention. He won 4 league titles in his five years at United. Cantona wore the iconic No.7 jersey for the red devils. Nicknamed ‘King Eric’ by the Old Trafford faithful. Set against his achievements was a poor disciplinary records. He once assaulted a Crystal Palace supporter and was sentenced to an 8-month break from football and a community service. The charismatic Frenchman announced his retirement from football aged just 30 to pursue a career in acting. He ranks 6th on this list of the greatest Manchester United Players of All Time.

EricCantona celebrating after scoring a goal
Cantona celebrating after scoring a goal

5. Paul Scholes

The midfielder was also one of the ‘class of 92’. One of the best all-round passer the game has ever seen. And one of the best passers in the English game. He was also a part of the ‘Golden generation’ of England. Also, one of the finest midfielders of the generation. The United game went through him, he was the maestro that ran the whole show. He controlled the whole game and had great vision. Scholes was a great striker of the ball, his long-range goals were a thing of beauty. Furthermore, he could strike it with great power making it unable for the goalkeeper to save. The man was a genius and a half.

4. Ryan Giggs

The quick and skillful winger. Ryan is a premier league legend and holds the record for the most assists in PL history. And he is second on the list of all-time appearances in PL history. He is the player with the most number of Premier league titles in history. He was a part of all of the 13 title-winning sides. Giggs was also an integral part of the treble-winning side of ’99.  And is the record appearance maker for the club. It can conclude that he is one of the greatest Welsh players of all time. And, with all that, he ranks 3rd on this list of the greatest Manchester United Players of All Time.

3. Sir Bobby Charlton

The legendary player is the second part of United’s famous ‘Holy Trinity’. Sir Bobby is the second-highest goal-scorer in the history of the club. His record which stood for years before a certain Wayne Rooney broke it in 2017. He is also the second-highest goal-scorer for England, another record which stood for years before being broken by Wayne Rooney in 2015. The man was also the highest appearance maker in the history of the club before Ryan Giggs broke that record. He was an integral part of the England’s World Cup winning squad in 1966, also the year he won the Ballon D’or. There is a stand in Old Trafford after him. He captained Manchester United to their first European cup. Sir Bobby scored twice in the final to help them lift it, becoming the first English club to win the cup. He is an all-time great of the game and an all-time Manchester United legend, thus being 3rd on this list of the greatest Manchester United Players of All Time.

Bobby Charlton Wayne Rooney
Sir Bobby handing Rooney the golden boot after becoming United’s top gal-scorer

2. Wayne Rooney

The “White Pele”. Wayne Rooney is the definition of a once in a generational talent. He is one of the most talented teenagers football has ever seen and certainly the most talented English teenager ever. He had everything you wanted from your forward, he was direct, had immense strength, courage, unrivaled work-rate, and an unparalleled talent and love for the game. The boy born and brought up in a small town named Croxteth. Wayne was brilliant, he was dubbed the ‘White Pele’ by the Evertonians, and the name caught on from there. To give a testament to how good he was, the whole of England had their expectations on him to bring the Euros home in 2004 when he was just 18. Wayne is the highest goal-scorer for England and also the highest goal-scorer in the history of Manchester United.

Rooney’s stellar career would’ve been more great had it not been for injuries. To get a more detailed look into Rooney’s life, watch his documentary on amazon prime by clicking here.

1. George Best

The final member of the ‘Holy Trinity’, George Best is an absolutely adored player by the United faithful. He was an insanely talented player and could work wonders with the ball at his feet. He went past players as if they weren’t there. The man also won a Ballon D’or while at the club. He didn’t live a long life but a rich life. He enjoyed every moment and lived in every moment, and he was absolutely admired for that. The way he played brought in people. People would buy tickets just to watch him play. The man that made the number 7 shirt famous. All this should be enough evidence to tell how great a player he was.

George Best
George Best

And so this concludes the list of the top 10 Greatest Manchester United Players of All Time.

Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Football Transfers of All Time

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Football (Premier League)

Top 10 El Clásico of All Time

El Clasico
A fight between Iniesta and Ronaldo

The greatest rivalry in the history of the beautiful game. Real Madrid vs F.C. Barcelona AKA The El Clasico. The rivalry of two of the biggest clubs in the history of football. Certainly, the biggest clubs in Spain. It is often the most anticipated and most viewed fixture in club football. Two clubs with the biggest of legacies and the biggest of legends the game has ever seen all over the pitch, makes it a spectacle you wouldn’t want to keep your eyes away from even for a second. The games can get a bit ugly, fights would break between the sets of players due to the intense rivalry. But, no matter what happens, this fixture comes with a full-fledge guarantee of entertainment.

Real Madrid is currently ahead with 100 Wins, followed closely by Barca at 97. While over the past three years, this fixture has dropped a bit in quality due to the departures of some greats in Cristiano Ronaldo, followed by Luis Suarez, Ramos, and then most recently Lionel Messi, it still is one of the most-watched games of club football season. Now, here is the list of our top 10 El Clasico’s of All Time.

10. Real Madrid 4-2 Barcelona (10 April 2005)

The win that helped Real secure the first La Liga title of their Galactico era. A star-studded Real Madrid with the likes of Ronaldo de Lima, Beckham, Raul, Owen, Zidane, and Roberto Carlos dominated a Barca that featured a young Andres Iniesta, Samuel Eto, Xavi, and the magician Ronaldinho. Zidane opened the scoring through a header in the 6th minute, and then Ronaldo scored to make it 2-0. It looked like there was no way back then Eto brought one back through a brilliant solo goal. Raul and Owen scored in the second half to put it past Barcelona’s reach. Ronaldinho stole the show with a magnificent Free Kick in the 73rd minute to make it 4-2. This classic and breathtaking Clasico makes 10th on this list of top 10 El Clasico’s of all time.

9. Barcelona 1-2 Real Madrid (21 April 2012)

When Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona met Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid, everyone just knew they were in for a treat. Icons of the game on either side of the pitch. Ballers wherever you looked. That season Real Madrid under Jose was an unstoppable counter-attacking machine. That team hit an unprecedented 100 points in the league that season. Pep’s Barcelona consisting of Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Dani Alves, Busquets, and prime Lionel Messi facing Mourinho’s Real that had a strike force of Ozil, Benzema, Angel di Maria led by a Cristiano Ronaldo in his prime. The game promised to be a great spectacle, and boy, did it deliver. The game began with chances at both ends, with Khedira opening the scoring after kicking home a rebound. The game went on with both sets of players creating half-chances at both ends. Alexis Sanchez finally equalized for Barca with a scrappy goal sending the home crowd into ecstasy. Their joy was soon deflated when Cristiano Ronaldo slotted home a brilliant finish to an exquisite through ball by Mesut and hitting the home supporters with the famous ‘Calma’ celebration.

Ronaldo and Ozil
Ronaldo’s famous ‘Calma’ celebration

8. Barcelona 5-0 Real Madrid (29 November 2010)

The biggest Clasico win in Barca’s history. A scoreline that describes utter domination. One of the most unexpected games ever played in this famous fixture. When the line-ups were announced, the general consensus was that this game would also be a nail-biter, will be a classic. As it turned out, it was a classic, just not what everyone thought and certainly not what the Madrid fans would’ve hoped for. Although Messi didn’t score in that game, he was unplayable that game. He provided two assists for Catalans. Xavi opened the scoring, and then Pedro scored the second to end a 25-pass move. El Clasico wouldn’t be an El Clasico without a fight breaking down between the players. Ronaldo pushed their manager Pep, and that enraged the Barca side erupting a fight between the players. The second half was a total onslaught by Barca, they scored three in that half to put Real Madrid out of sight and out of mind. A night the Culers will never forget.

7. Barcelona 1-3 Real Madrid ( 14 August 2017)

Barcelona invited Real Madrid to Camp Nou for the Supercopa de Espana. The game began with chances at both ends, with the first half stayed level at 0-0. Five minutes into the second half, the UCL holders take the lead through a Pique own goal. Messi leveled the scoring in the 77th minute by slotting home a penalty given against Navas by a foul on Suarez. The score didn’t stay level for too long, though, when Cristiano Ronaldo scored a wonder goal, flooring Pique and curling it into the top corner in the 80th minute. He celebrated that by removing his shirt to enrage the home supporters. He then got a red card in the 83rd minute, making the match tougher for Real. But, Marco Asensio came in clutch by sending home a thunderous strike in the 90th minute to end the game 1-3 in the favour of Madrid.

Barca 1-3 Real
Ronaldo shirtless celebration

6. Real Madrid 2-1 Barcelona (16 April 2014)

Before the game, Barcelona were favorite to win the game due to the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was suffering from an injury. But Gareth Bale had other plans. Angel Di Maria opened the scoring at the end of a fiercely quick and an exquisite counterattack. The first half saw plenty of chances for either side, and Bale had himself a goal disallowed. Barcelona equalized through a Batra header in the second half. In the 85th minute, Gareth Bale switched on his engine and went on a run to slot home a brilliant solo goal and win Real Madrid the Copa Del Rey.

5. Real Madrid 0-2 Barcelona ( 27th April 2011)

A champions league semi-final first leg match between Real Madrid and Barcelona, there isn’t anything bigger that club football can promise you. Another Jose vs Pep classic encounter. Jose’s tactics to frustrate Pep didn’t work out for him on this occasion. Lionel Messi had different plans to those of Jose’s. Pepe got sent off in the 61st minute, making it a colossal task for the men in the royal white to keep a clean sheet. Messi opened the scoring in the 77th minute. But, his second goal is the one that is known throughout the world. Messi tore apart the Madrid defense skipping past 4 players to score his second. And, who can forget Peter Drury’s iconic commentary to it, “Away from two, three, four wonderful wonderful wonderful.” An aggregate advantage of 3-1 sent Barcelona in the finals.

4. Barcelona 2-2 Real Madrid ( 7 October 2012)

If an example was to be given of a perfect Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo encounter, then this game would be the top contender. The two of the greatest ever and the greatest of our generation going head to head always resulted in a beautiful spectacle. Ronaldo opened the scoring by firing home a thunderbolt from his weak foot past Valdes. Messi equalized after Pepe miscued his clearance, and Messi fired home a simple finish. Messi scored a scintillating free kick in the second half to put Barca ahead. And not a long time after, Cristiano finishes his second to draw the game level through a Mesut assist. A pure exhibition of football.

The Goats
Messi and Ronaldo shaking hands

3. Barcelona 3-3 Real Madrid ( 10 March 2007)

The game that announced the arrival of the great Lionel Messi to the world. A game that had stars all over the pitch. But, the headlines were stolen by a 19-year-old from Argentina. Ruud Van Nistelrooy opened the scoring for Real, Messi sent home the equalizer soon, although. Nistelrooy slotted home his penalty to give the visitors the lead. Messi equalized it again to cancel out the pen. Ramos scored to give Real the lead again. When it looked like Real were gonna win this one, Messi popped up again and sent home a brilliant goal in the 92nd minute to send the crowd into ecstasy, and the game ended at an astonishing 3-3.

2. Real Madrid 2-3 Barcelona ( 23 April 2017)

Another game where Messi haunted the Bernabeu crowd. It was a pretty equal game until Casemiro tapped in an open goal to give Real the lead. Messi then scored as beautiful goal to level the game. Rakitic scored in the second half to give Barca the lead. But Rodriguez scored in the 85th minute to equalize it for Real, and they thought that was the end of it. But, Leo Messi had different plans. He sent home a brilliant finish through his magical left foot in the dying minutes of the game to give Barca the lead and then removing his jersey and showing it to the Bernabeu folk. One of the most iconic celebrations ever in an El Clasico.

Messi
Messi celebration against Real Madrid

1. Real Madrid 3-4 Barcelona ( 23 March 2014)

It was an easy choice for the number 1 pick. This game had everything: Red Cards, Penalties, Hattrick. Iniesta opened the scoring by a Messi through ball. Benzema headed home the equalizer to tie the game for a while. Benzema scored soon again to give Carlo Ancelotti’s men the lead. Messi popped up to score his first and tie the game. Ronaldo slotted home the penalty to put Real in front. Ramos then brought Neymar down in the box and got himself sent off. Messi slotted that pen past Casillas to level the game at 3-3. Iniesta won Barca another penalty, and the main man sent that pen in the net as well to win the game for the Catalans.

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Categories
Football (Premier League)

Cristiano Ronaldo Scored His 60th Hat-Trick

Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo is aging like fine wine at the moment. Just off scoring his career 60th hat-trick, Cristiano Ronaldo is a man on a mission. The 37-year-old footballer helped Manchester United escape a cagey affair against Norwich in the Premier League. Manchester United is currently locked in a race for the top 4 with teams like Tottenham Hotspurs, West Ham United, and Arsenal. As opposed to Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal both lost their respective matches this week. This gives Manchester United a boost to their chances to secure a top 4 spot. It was all made possible after an inspiring performance by Ronaldo, saving United from the clutches of defeat.

Ronaldo even addressed the victory and his hat-trick on his Instagram, saying, “Very happy with this win and for getting us back on track in the Premier League.”. Further, regarding his 60th hat-trick, he elucidated the importance behind the feat by saying, “The 60th hat-trick in my career is so much more important because it brought us the 3 points.”.

The start of his astonishing hat-trick began when Anthony Elanga caught capitalized on Ben Gibson in possession near the Norwich penalty box to beautifully set up Ronaldo for an easy shot from close range. Soon he doubled his tally from a corner by Alex Telles, and put it brilliantly slotted it past Tim Krul. However, all hope seemed lost when defensive errors caused Norwich to pull two goals back. However, in the 76th minute, after Manchester United were awarded a freekick, Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up and delivered a brutal knuckleball past Norwich to finally put Manchester United in front and get the 3 valuable points for the team. Apart from Ronaldo and David de Gea, the rest of the team put in a sub-par performance and were considered lucky to get away with the win.

According to Statman Dave on Twitter, Ronaldo’s stats against Norwich were ridiculous, to say the least:

David de Gea, after the match, emphasized the importance of the win, as this victory keeps United’s hope alive for a top-four finish. However, he also implored his side to contribute more to the matches. He was quoted saying, “We should control the game more against Norwich at home. A massive win for us. We still have a chance to finish top four, and we have to fight for it.”
With just 3 points behind the Spurs in the Premier League table, Manchester United will certainly put everything behind in these last few remaining games. With a spectacular performance, Ronaldo seems adamant to finish in the top 4 and qualify for Champions League next season. Additionally, this was his 3rd hat-trick in United colors and 2nd hat-trick this season. With 21 goals in his bag from 34 games this season, Ronaldo is proving every doubter wrong. United are poised to face Liverpool at Anfield in their next match. With the form Ronaldo is in currently, Liverpool needs to be wary of him.

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