In his fortnightly exclusive column for CaughtOffside, Jon Smith, one of football’s first-ever agents and a man who was an integral figure in the forming of the Premier League, discusses why Real Madrid will win the Champions League, why Declan Rice has been one of Arsenal’s best-ever signings, why Man United could stick with Erik ten Hag – and more!
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Real Madrid to win ‘their’ Champions League… again
It’s probably going to be Real Madrid that win the Champions League final because it’s sort of in their DNA. This is their competition and it’s almost like General Franco organised it!
There were teams that used to turn up at Anfield years ago and they’d walk onto the pitch past the ‘Welcome to Anfield’ sign which was there to intimidate them.
I think the Champions League is there to intimidate every other team apart from Real Madrid. It’s quite bizarre, isn’t it?
For example, they were halfway through the second half of their semi-final against Bayern and their legs completely went – and yet they still ended up winning it.
Thibaut Courtois with the Champions League trophy
They always find a way, don’t they?
I am a huge fan of what’s happened at Dortmund this year mind you, and I’d like to see Dortmund win because I think they kind of deserve it this year. They’ve done so well.
However, I’m struggling to see past Real Madrid on this occasion.
You know if it was Real Madrid vs Dortmund in a league over the course of time, I’d back Dortmund, but in a one-off game and considering the size of the occasion… my heart and head combined tell me that it’s probably gonna be Real Madrid.
Declan Rice has been one of Arsenal’s best-ever signings
Arsenal’s Declan Rice
I think not only is Declan Rice a great talent, but he’s brought the ability to encourage the players around him to do better in themselves.
Firstly, because he comes with a big £100m tag and he’s kept his head down and been a gentleman on and off the field, and I think that’s a bit inspirational.
Inspirational players are the best players to have on your team as well as talented ones, and he is both.
He’s just got on with the job, played really well, and the…
Source link : https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/05/10/agents-column-arsenal-man-united/
Author : Jon Smith
Publish date : 2024-05-10 16:58:52
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