Our two Swiss boys had a good day at the office. Xhaka banged home a screamer from range on 55 minutes to give Switzerland 3 vital points. He celebrated with an eagle sign, a big fuck you to the Serbians, FIFA no doubt going to step in to punish him because they’re super hot on anything unless it’s proper racism. A bit of gentle goading about some genocide back in the day is sure to garner a ten game ban.
Lichtsteiner played his part, barking orders from the sidelines. I found this piece from a Swedish ref Jonas Eriksson on our new signing.
‘I have met several international players and to judge a person you have to meet them several times – and not just once when they have a bad day because everyone can have it. But I have met Lichtsteiner several times, and he is one of the most unpleasant players I met.’
PERFECT. Get me some of that unpleasantness in our side. Not because I like mean players, more because we’re a soft touch with refs in general.
There are some reports that we’re chasing Russian superstar Golovin. The 22-year-old has been impressive this year; we felt his talent first hand in the Europa League. Juve are favourites, but his current employers are pushing for £25m. He looks a player, can’t believe Everton aren’t chasing him down, looks like an Usmanov centrepiece.
In coaching news, Le Grove favourite Julian Nagelsmann shocked the world when he announced he’ll be joining Redbull Leipzig next season. It’s an odd move when you consider Bayern were very interested in his talents, but from a learning perspective, it’s really smart. He’ll get to work with Ralph Rangnick, who is a bit of a management idol from a mentor perspective. He’ll also have money to support him, a smart scouting network, and he’ll be able to raise a family with his lady.
The big transfer chases going off at the moment for Arsenal centre around Soyuncu. The Freiburg centre-back is going to wait until July to decide where he goes next. Then there’s Banega, who met with Gazidis this week. The Argentine, who has been missed this World Cup seems to be playing games. He’s working out his second stint at Sevilla, and he was upset that Sporting Director Oscar Aries left the club. Seems to me like he’s either looking for more money there or more money with us. So we’ll see how this pans out.
There’s a bit of chatter about Petr Cech heading over to Napoli. I wrote yesterday that we’d pushed our wage bill up a lot so far this year. He’d be a good one to ship off the list. Who wouldn’t want to retire to Italy?
Also, I missed off Per Mertesacker and Santi Cazorla off the out list yesterday. I didn’t do it on purpose. I promise.
Finally, there’s a great write up about Raheem Sterling, by Raheem Sterling on the Players Tribune. It’s rightly being received very well because now people are looking at this guy like a human. Every year, fans of football clubs grow a little. This summer, it seems we’re not about the nasty attacks the press perpetrate on our players. They’re our boys; we’re here to the support the, and the fans will control the narrative. It’s a breath of fresh air.
Tapping out early, but tune in at 4ish tomorrow because I’ll be on Love Sport Radio chatting about our amazing summer.
SPEAK THEN. x
Charlie
That’s exactly the way var is used.if it’s not unanimous, it’s not given
Vaginas’
Are
Reviewing.
Gambon:”Come off it….this is nonsense.We’ve made £120m in sales in the last 12 months….not counting Sanchez. You were no doubt saying exactly the same last year.” We have sold the most valuable jewels now. We would lose money on every player we have bought in the last 3 seasons. Every one. And put it into perspective. We are 8th wealthiest club in the world. Yet you tell me the sale value of some of our regular players like Iwobi, Welbeck, Elneny, Ospina, Kolasinac,. Given their age how much would we be able to sell Monreal, Kocielny, Cech. Cazorla left for… Read more »
Marko
And as such it’s not given.
I also think it was a pen. Berg was clearly being impeded by Boateng.
This game looks very interesting.
Watched Belgium v Tunisia. What a game that was. I knew that we would end up being second of the group (unless we beat Belgium, which I doubt we will. But then again who knows! 😉 )
Interesting CC. Not sure how much room there is for sentimentality in PL but would Leno feel a little annoyed if Musti were to get sold on his arrival? I guess he’d have to suck it up!
Hill wood
That’s not true. Var is so the ref doesn’t miss anything. It is still ultimately the refs decision
Jaaaaaaaa
Bob
Imagine Leno would be aware of Mutafis future before anything is played out, but I like the idea of some continuity at the back etc. Always feel a good bond between GK and CBs is vital
Haha this is fun
Get in there the Svens
So Gabriel, Ox, Walcott, 31 year old Giroud, coquelin were valuable jewels.
You’re embarrassing yourself.
Brilliant finish that
All Kroos’ fault. Gave the ball away deep, then didnt track the man.
What a goal by Sweden!!°
Low is not getting this right.
I don’t get why he’s using draxler? In as much as we hate ozil, this is the match for him, with loads of possession. U want someone to pick the right pass in the final 3rd
Germany are ponderous.
That Timo Werner has a lot to do to prove himself at this level, looks bang average. How they miss a Lewandowski type, even a Giroud to knit together their fiddly fuckers like Drax/Reus/Brandt
Get in Sweden
This center forward has been very lively today, Germans getting caught on counter attack yet again.
Gambon. Sanchez was the jewel. Ozil with a year on his contract was a jewel that we squandered. That was also before he stank up last season. And yes, Oxlaide and Walcott were jewels relative to the ordinary stock that we had in our inventory. Giroud was more valuable than most of the players that I just named. Possibly all of them.
Sanmi
Does that mean a referee taking the assistance of VAR will invariably result in he overturning his actual decision?
“The ref just goes on with his business…..they whisper in his ear if they found a clear mistake”
this is my understading, too
TR7
ur as dim as some ballers calling for VAR!
It’s not up to him…He gets TOLD to watch something
I like Kroos a lot, but that reverse inside pass attempt to Gundogan was fucking lazy
Imagine Leno would be aware of Mutafis future before anything is played out Doubt it. Sounds like something a player says when they sign for a new club. I mean when he spoke to Mustafi months back would it have been around the time he was trying to get a loan move to Inter? Honestly don’t read too much into things like that and Cech getting the number one jersey one thing doesn’t mean another. For example Leno’s mate saying Arsenal is a great team to play for after he tried to leave them and after the season he just… Read more »
Tr7
Yes, he will change his decision if he sees what he missed. But if he sees the same thing, his decision will still be the same. That’s what happened when Costa smacked pepe. Ref still did not think it’s a free kick and awarded the goal
Agreed CC. Protocol for VAR needs sorting out. My view is that ref makes decision, if on an appeal VAR cannot clearly, without a degree of certainty, overturn the original decision then original ref’s decision stands. This means grey area stays with the ref and only clear mistakes/ oversights are overturned. Cricket is obviously a very different game but this appeal system works pretty well. Rugby manages fine too. It almost looks like the authorities don’t want it to work because they could have learnt from other sports, or they’re simply incompetent. The negativity towards it is fuelled by the… Read more »
In as much as we hate ozil, this is the match for him, with loads of possession. U want someone to pick the right pass in the final 3rd
Plenty of possession against Mexico too
Champagne charlie
You said you found International football tedious, so why are you watching, you silly cunt.
Therfore VAR doesn’t decide. The ref still does
Draxler has been anonymous in that #10 dog role.
Muller is playing based on past WC achievements, cos domestically, he should be nowhere near the starting line up.
Probably going to score now lol
Marko
He played better than Muller, draxler and weiner on that day.
Marko
Mustafi wanted to leave after falling out with Wenger over tactics supposedly, wouldn’t be hard to assume he sees Emery as a new page. He’s mates with Leno and even if he wanted out, it’s not because the club isn’t fantastic etc. The idea Leno wouldn’t be aware of Mustafis predicament this summer is odd, if they’re mates it’s pretty basic footballer chat.
I have never understood the draxler hype
I think each team should have at least 2 appeals.
Sweden like Mexico are getting a lot of opportunities on counter.
Put ozil on you muppet!!
Rudiger and Boateng are so shit.
If Kovacic is available for £40m, then,imho, squeeze as much as we can out of Ramsey now and keep it moving.
Bob The fact people can sit and discuss the application of it is worrying, there isn’t a definite idea of how it’s being implemented. You have an idea, I think it’s this way, he thinks it’s that way. Poor imo. I think they’ve bitten off more than they needed to. Bring VAR in to police the black and white stuff, then get the use of it down before expanding into contentious decisions/pens etc/ It’s like they’ve thought to introduce a whole new system of officiating all at once, and the results speak for themselves. Cluelessness across the pubs among fans… Read more »
@Carts –
“If Kovacic is available for £40m, then,imho, squeeze as much as we can out of Ramsey now and keep it moving.”
Would love that move!
TR7
June 23, 2018 19:50:52
I think each team should have at least 2 appeals. Sweden like Mexico are getting a lot of opportunities on counter.
…………………………………..
Sanmi just explained it to you
sigh….
Bet he wish he had Sane on the bench now.
Mustafi wanted to leave after falling out with Wenger over tactics supposedly, wouldn’t be hard to assume he sees Emery as a new page. The idea Leno wouldn’t be aware of Mustafis predicament this summer is odd, if they’re mates it’s pretty basic footballer chat. Yeah but it’s not up to him. He may have had a ball last season picking up a decent wage while putting in shocking performance after shocking performance but the club might feel he’s simply not good enough and should be sold. After last season how could a person not? I mean do you think… Read more »
First German team I can remember that haven’t looked at all physically imposing, Swedes are bigger.
They aren’t even bothering with whipping in corners.
Bet he wish he had Sane on the bench now.
No one running in behind no one taking on a defender. Big mistake by the ball bag scratcher
Bring on Brandt job done.
Old man Gomez will probably get the nod early on around the hour mark if they still haven’t found an equaliser, Werner just isn’t suited to this type of game.
Caster said that yesterday the Serbia vs Switzerland game, the Mitrovic sandwich in 2, which was a WWE move, the VAR team told the ref to check the situation but the ref said that he’s seen enough of it in live.
That’s absolute bollocks. Douchebag refs can always say they’ve seen enough. It was a clear pen. 100% one.
‘Sanmi just explained it to yousigh….’
He did but what I am saying is the current rules are faulty and should be changed.
I am seeing that challenge on a loop and it’s a stonewall penalty. That’s why I think players should have a right to appeal.
Red truth,
If passes don’t find Brandt at the right time and place, then he won’t work. They need a passer with composure. Either they play kroos higher up the pitch or put ozil there. Having so many strikers at once makes no sense. Reus, Muller, weiner, draxler
Way I understand it the ref has coms with the fourth official and his assistants not the guys in the VAR booth. Only when he decides to view it does he go to the tv screen and put in another ear piece and discuss the incident. Basically he has to initiate the review
That one was laughable, Mitrovic was literally wrestled to the ground by not just one but two defenders that weren’t even looking at the ball.
Ref was starting straight at it just metres away.
Marko You think it’s under the clubs control? That’s cute. If Mustafi, or any other player, doesn’t want to move then they won’t. Contracts are an agreement between two parties, if you think the club can play big dicks then you’re living in a weird little bubble. Do I think he “deserves” another season? I think language like that is comical. He’s had a poor season, but players are judged on their characteristics and Mustafi has plenty of ability to be an Arsenal CB. I don’t share your desire to scapegoat players. You can’t have it both ways, you slated… Read more »
http://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2018/06/23/5b2dfce122601de60e8b4674.html
Would love him at Arsenal
Tr7,
Right here on Supersport, 2 pundits are divided on the penalty. That exactly is why it wasn’t given. Some see it as body check others see it as a push. It’s not clear.
WengerEagle
Against Mitrovic, our new RB, definitely fouled him, but at the same time Mitrovic was fouling the defender in front. The defender was backing him and Mitrovic was pulling his shirt. That splits the opinions in var,then play has to go on
At least it puts to bed the notion that Ozil is to blame for Germany’s defeat to Mexico.
It was obvious that they were susceptible to the counter attack, full backs pushing too far up, no protection for the defence from midfield… Sounds familiar.
I thought Ozil was Germany’s problem.
Marko
June 23, 2018 20:02:27
no no no
Lol Reus
You think it’s under the clubs control? That’s cute. If Mustafi, or any other player, doesn’t want to move then they won’t. Yeah but you make it sound like the club has no say in whether he stays or goes then what’s to stop every player signing a contract playing awful and never being held accountable for those awful performances. Club has some power. Do I think he “deserves” another season? I think language like that is comical. He’s had a poor season, but players are judged on their characteristics and Mustafi has plenty of ability to be an Arsenal… Read more »
On the Mitrovic…everyone i’ll talked with agrees it’s a pen and wonder how it was not given
Likely cos WAR isn’t perfect yet and Mitrovic did hold a shirt and had an elbow in one of the defenders face
“At least it puts to bed the notion that Ozil is to blame for Germany’s defeat to Mexico.”
I guess this half puts to bed that Germany is clearly better without Ozil. They look dangerous unlike last game.
Reus when fit is a superb player
What is Reus doing there
Reus should get slated for that effort. I will give the Ozil lovers this one, if that was Ozil that did what Reus did he would be absolutely crucified tomorrow if they don’t win this.
Marko
I didn’t suggest the club has nom power, I opposed your stupid idea that the club has all the cards. They don’t, the contract is there if the player wishes to stay.
I gave you an answer, I don’t do simple bollocks like you so ever so sorry for giving a layered response. Here’s the idiot proof version: yes, Mustafi deserves to be at Arsenal. Reason I give context is because you’ve a habit of taking what people say and creating your own reasons.
Qua
Germany played well against Mexico, they lost to counter. They had chances to score they just did not.
Werner 10x the impact from wide forward. Funny that…
Sammie. I don’t agree. They were pretty predictable. Not like this half. They look much better at the moment.
Gonna say something that will be highly unpopular with people on here… I am not a fan of Kroos, I think he is overrated.
So if it’s an obvious penalty but the ref doesn’t see it and he won’t refer it to VAR that’s the end of it ?
‘Gonna say something that will be highly unpopular with people on here… I am not a fan of Kroos, I think he is overrated.’
+ 1
HillWood
The ref missed it…the WAR room DID look at it but decided it was not that clear
I didn’t suggest the club has nom power, I opposed your stupid idea that the club has all the cards If a club wants to get rid of a player they’ll find a way. Whether it’s selling him loaning him out or dumping his ass in the reserves if next season Arsenal don’t want Mustafi around he won’t be around. Here’s the idiot proof version: yes, Mustafi deserves to be at Arsenal. Reason I give context is because you’ve a habit of taking what people say and creating your own reasons. Your reason for keeping him is that he’s good… Read more »
Lahey
It has to flippin’ happen!
Nah, Kross is a baller.
Won’t accept the slander. not tonight.
I agree that so far he’s been disappointing.
Gomez! Even Welbeck can’t miss that right?
Funny that cause I was about to say the same thing about Gundogan.
Don’t know what it is he’s supposed to excel at.
Kroos is good. Modric is better.
@Carts –
Can’t see it happening I am afraid, not with Torreira incoming and Xhaka signing a new deal!
Our centre midfield might look a bit like this next season ..
——————— Torreira —- Xhaka ————————
————————– Ramsey/Ozil —————————-
“If a club wants to get rid of a player they’ll find a way. Whether it’s selling him loaning him out or dumping his ass in the reserves if next season Arsenal don’t want Mustafi around he won’t be around” Just isn’t as you describe it, the player in question needs to give a nod. You talk some utter fairytale gash about being put in reserves, it’s 2018. “Your reason for keeping him is that he’s good enough to be a starter for Arsenal right? Very interesting.” My reason for keeping him is his ability, plus the new manager and… Read more »
@Qna + Carts –
I think Kroos is a good player, just think he is overhyped. The man has great distribution but I feel he is lacking when caught in tight areas.
“Kroos is good. Modric is better.”
No lies detected. As you were.
This game is built for Ozil
Low has lost his edge and can’t even hold his camp together.
Lahey
Arsenal don’t have the arsehole to make such *whole sale changes* but there’s still time, so who knows.
Modric plays football the way it should be player, the guy is a joy to watch!
Lurve needs to perform a scratch & sniff but too many loud mouths are going to say something.
Casemiro, Kroos, Modric has been the best midfield in the world for the last what? 3 years and running. No way that Kroos is overrated. Then so is Xavi.
Goonah
I must have missed that bit lol
Jim. Agree with you to an extent. He does some absolutely amazing things. But he does those things quite rarely. That part of his game is over-hyped. But as far as a deep lying quarterback that runs the game. He is probably the best in the business at the moment. Nobody else comes to mind.
But Modric is the better baller 🙂
Boateng should be walking. Lucky fucker!
If that was done with VAR then that is a great call.
Carts. You are right and you are wrong. Not so lucky after all.
Red card for Boateng.
The German CB’s are tripe
Fucking hell this will be the 4th time out of the last 5 World Cups that the defending Champions are dumped out in the groups.
VaRin’ hell. Ref changed his mind. But seems like he’s made a pigs ear of his discretionary power
Germany are out of the world cup.
Stranger things have happened in football.
The manager took a lot of players out of form and left the player that has had the best year of all German
The French team that went in in the first round of the 2002 WC was better that this German team so it’s no big deal.
Rudiger is fucking awful.
No idea what Chelsea saw in him.
Kroos is just like Gilberto Silva and Carrick….underappreciated but important to a team