Goodbye King Kevin De Bruyne

Source: Transfer market.com

As an avid Manchester City FC fan for over a decade, I feel compelled to put into words my admiration for one of my all-time favourite players – King Kevin De Bruyne.

My journey as a City fan began even before Kevin joined the club. I remember watching every match, week after week, during the golden years of legends like Kompany, Silva, Nasri, Lampard and of course Aguero. These players not only made football thrilling to watch, but they also instilled in me a deep love and respect for the game.

Through them, I learned more than just football. I learned about dedication, commitment, passion and the value of time –lessons that go beyond the pitch and into real life.

Then came Kevin De Bruyne. Watching him play from the very beginning of his City career has been nothing short of inspirational. 

His vision, creativity and leadership grew match by match and with every pass, every goal, he made the game look like art. His assists, often bordering on the magical, were unmatched. Perhaps, he made football easy and beautiful to watch.

I always looked forward to the weekends just to see the City match and especially Kevin. Knowing he was on the pitch always used to give me confidence because when Kevin plays, something special used to always happen.

If there's one player I admire just second to the great Messi, it's De Bruyne.

Some of my favourite memories involve intense Champions League battles with Real Madrid, Premier League clashes with Liverpool, Arsenal and of course, Manchester United. 

But one moment stands above the rest is the unforgettable comeback against Aston Villa to win the Premier League title. I've watched that full match and its highlights more times than I can count.

Link: https://www.premierleague.com/video/single/3055665?FOOTBALL_CLUBS=11

Thank you, Kevin, for making football beautiful. You have inspired a generation and for fans like me, you have made every minute of the game worth watching.

Millions of City fans around the globe would simply miss you and your magical assist on the right spot. There is nothing more you can do than the moment you created in Etihad Stadium. 

Link:https://www.mancity.com/citytv/mens/kevin-de-bruyne-king-kev-hero-video-63883357

Link:https://www.transfermarkt.com/assist-king-de-bruyne-how-his-unrivalled-creativity-has-led-man-citys-charge-in-europe/view/news/433906

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgn-CLO0FGw

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxc7M2IsUWU

Let Me Talk FOOTBALL

I'm neither an expert nor a player. But, I love football for many reasons. It not only keeps one fit and healthy but also grossly unites people from across the globe. Football is one of the most loved and watched games in the world today.

 

Initially, we thought legend Pelé and Maradona were the ultimate superheroes to ever play this sport showcasing skills and talent. However, this became far from the truth when Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo set their foot on the pitch, they seemed to dominate football. They have expanded this sport so much that it has become unpredictable and versatile in showcasing both the technical skills and mental stamina of the players. 

Messi and Ronaldo are the people's sensations not only in skills and talent but also for scoring goals.

 

Both Wayne Rooney and David Beckham were known for their kicking skills -people loosely joke Beckham's Banana Kick and Rooney's Bicycle Kick. These skills not only inspire the younger generation and football fans but also give hope to anyone who thinks of football as a career. 

 

Similarly, Neymar and Mbappé are recent charms known for possessing incredible talent, looks and pace. 

 

Now the debate is between Leo Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. 

"Who is Number One in the world?" 

"Who is better?"

"Is it fair to differentiate these two football GOAT?"

 

One thing is clear. Ronaldo is tall and has rugged looks, while Messi is a fair, gentle and sublime man. 

 

Messi and Ronaldo are the most talked about and popular football figures both on and off the pitch, in person and on social media, they are everyone's sensation and favorite for now. They may change but not their records like the name and fame they have earned in the world of football. Both the players are different yet special on their own. And I do not find any space to separate them, and both of their achievements on and off the pitch are history and record. 

 

Messi is a gifted left-footed, while Ronaldo is Vice-Versa. Messi is so good at dribbling and so is Ronaldo. Ronaldo can score some great goals, so does Messi. To me, I see Ronaldo as an incredible individual player with great technical abilities and speed, while Messi seems like a complete player -as a team and individual.

 

Perhaps, this duo has revolutionized football for all time. 

 

"However, I'm an Avid Messi Fan for different reasons (secret 👀)".

 

What both players have done in this sport is far beyond a comparable value. Both the players have achieved everything –Fame and Money. Anything that is made for football! 

 

Now for the upcoming 2023 Ballon d'Or award, I have my dream player. I've been admiring this footballer for so long along with other players. What he did for his country and clubs is in history. What he did for the fans, football enthusiasts and young players will be more than just watching and enjoying football games.  

His passing ability is the one that sinks my heart week after week. Because of this one player, I've never missed a single Manchester City match. He is the guy who creates impossible passes and scores some impossible goals. He runs miles for his team and the club. 

 

Although, there is just a slim chance for him to win, however, I wish the Ballon d'Or (21-22) goes to Kelvin De Bruyne. I wish he continues to inspire every aspect of football. 

For the bigger share of achievements Messi did for the year, I see more chances (80%) of him winning the award, but I have some instinct and faith that Bruyne should come near to Leo even if he isn't winning the award.

Pic Source: Google

2022 FIFA World Cup to Remember

A much awaited FIFA World Cup is finally here. And all eyes will be on Qatar for a month. Most teams will just shed their tears, while lucky ones will cash their hand on the most prestigious trophy. 

 

Qatar World Cup

 

To watch the football game from Qatar is exciting in so many ways. To host such a world-class sporting event by a country less known to this sport means a lot for other countries. 

 

Mouth-watering Budget

 

To do such a big event, it is anything beyond domestic budget. Therefore, expenses by the Doha government was the oil money; a madness for other small nations wishing to host such an event. However, the investment after all is a long term plan for the good of their own nation. Budget over 200 billion is beyond the fancy of any nation. This amount is just a dream of many other nations. 

 

Stadium

 

source: google

More than watching football, the beauty of the stadium is not only a hope of an advanced architecture but also showcasing of an engineering piece. The high standard is set for the future of this sport. 

 

In Asia

 

Hosting this world event by the Qatari government is a huge thing for other Asian nations too. When big nations like China and India are just dreaming, Qatar hosting this event showed their superiority, a work of great unity, and sacrifice and love for this game.

 

The Eventful Case

Although Asia has a long way to become a football elite, watching some Asian giants is special in many ways. 

 

Big football figures like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are probably attending their final world cup and watching them always brings huge joy and happiness. The charm they bring in football is extraordinary and like any other football figure, the Messi and Ronaldo effect is set to remain forever.

Source: google

What I also like about football players is the mentality they bring in this sport is amazing and watching them giving 100 percent commitment and love is remarkable. 

 

It was so nice and a proud moment for a Japan and Japanese for showcasing to the world their humanity, the moral duty –human value of how much they care for the waste and surrounding, it is timely and extraordinary in such a big, big international forum and at a time world is gravely suffering from the impact of waste and littering. 

Source: google

It is also a message to the world leaders on global issues to address at the earliest. We must learn this art from this country and we look forward to seeing leaders in power make moves such as this for the future of this planet.

 

The other Asian giant –South Korea banging high standards in looks and technology is making their presence strong. The BTS boy named Jung kook and his World Cup song "Dreamers" is making an international headline. It's another proud moment for ROK and other Asian nations for showcasing to the world that Asia also has great talent.

  

 

Source: google

Qatar –the host nation exciting first from the league round shall remain as history. However, the good thing is that they have set their standard in football. 

 

The news of a few players gravely injured at the start of the tournament was indeed not good news for the team, manager, fans and family members.  

 

Undoubtedly, this season of football has disrupted many things, especially sleep and work. Moreover, some cracking late night games weren't easy to watch. But, thanks to the power of the Internet. 

 

My wife and I are having a good time watching some of our favorite team games. My wife who has very little idea about football and pursuing her by my side is a huge task for me as she constantly needs a lot of background information of the player and squad. On many occasions, I acted more like a football pundit and I take this opportunity to better my knowledge of football and knowing players and clubs they play. 

However, more exciting was watching Messi's Argentina and Ronaldo's Portugal, Neymar's Brazil and DeBruyne's Belgium, Son's Korea and Mbappe's France. All the matches were tight and seeing them giving 100 percent showed their love for football and country.

 

It is too early to predict the winner. However, looking at the team of world-class players –I had a wild guess on a few teams like Brazil, England, Portugal, France, Argentina and Belgium. 

 

Another thing I am always fascinated by is the beautiful commentary of English men... Their commentary always adds joy and liveliness to a football game. 

 

Thus, football to me is more than just a beautiful game. 

Manchester City Champions League Gamble

For the longest, FC Man City has been eyeing football's biggest Champions League Trophy. And it became more obvious after the arrival of Pep Guardiola, who is one of the best known Football Managers of the modern times. He has the past experience of lifting some of the biggest trophies in the world of football with FC Barcelona and FC Bayern Munich. 

His managing career at Man City started with a much awaited agenda to bring home the most prestigious football award. 

Pep’s second season in the club [city] was something extraordinary as he won the English Premier League [EPL] and other domestic trophies with extraordinary might and points, which made him special in the club's history. As a football manager, he won the hearts and trust of his owner, clubs and fans around the world. He is the king of football tactician. He was famous for Tiki-taka style of football and possession based games. For these, he has become one of the iconic best, respected and famed football managers not only in England but also in Spain and Germany. 

However, even with all his special tactics, FC Liverpool have been a constant threat to city pursuit of football ambition. It was both an opportunity and challenge for the players, manager, owner and fans to keep them afloat throughout the season. 

The recent exit of Man City in the hands of Real Madrid at Bernabeu was a heart breaking moment for the club, players, manager, owner, and fans around the world. The game of football is so unpredictable as it goes with 50 percent luck and another 50 percent teamwork and individual skills.

I have been an avid City fan for decades now and I have been watching and enjoying every single match they play both home and away. I even burn midnight candles to watch their late games. Because the City plays high pressing and beautiful games. I see football from different lenses and relate it to my everyday affairs and even to my professional growth. This ball game gives me a lot of life lessons –teamwork, management, commitment, dedication, resilience and respect. I also see the unity and power of football beyond the stadium. 

Let me share a few recent blunders Pep did for the city squad –putting such a heavy price tag for Grealish was unnecessary. He cannot fit well in the city team because of the difference in his play style and tactics. Another gamble city overcame was avoiding Harry Kane, it was a good decision for not finally balling this English man. There are other young and versatile players who can change the city squad. I have a big reservation for Erling Haaland and Pogba. I go for Declan Rice over Pogba.

If Man City and Pep want to win Europe’s glorious Trophy, they need to look for a good striker, winger and defence. There are different ways and opportunities to win the trophies. I also have some straight reservations for first choice goalkeeper –Ederson. I have not seen Ederson making a single save from the penalty spot and some critical saves. Pep needs to do some serious homework in these areas should he want to grip his hand on the Champions League Trophy. 

I have always liked the face of City ace Kelvin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva. These are the players I have always admired for their skills and vision, commitment and energy, teamwork and dedication. Perhaps, putting up Jesus as a bargaining chip to bring in some good winger, or striker would be a good move for city's pursuit to Champions League and in domestic glory. 

However, one thing I disliked about Pep in recent exit from the Champions League at Madrid was something crazy and uneasy for the football fans around the world. Pep's excitement to improve the defence line by introducing Fernandinho over Mahrez has cost him so much. The big player like KDB shouldn't have been substituted. Instead he should have controlled the game with these players instead of making a crazy substitution and a different game plan. Therefore, City should refresh the depth of their squad, not just going blind with big signings. 

I hope they [City] can crown champions of English League for 2021-2022. 

Magic Man

Manchester City over the years have performed exceptionally well, and played good football games both at home and away. Pep Guardiola has been fundamental for their success in recent years. 

The city's talisman, Kelvin de Bruyne is one of the key men behind their success. As he is always, he makes different levels of chances, attempting, assisting, defending and attacking in the pitch. Also his leadership makes the games well organised and high throughout the match. He is essentially twice as creative and powerful as the typical central midfielder has to be. He is not only the king of assists and creativity but also the passes. Perhaps, he is one of the best midfielders in the world. 

I am an avid football fan for last decade; I am a Manchester City and Kelvin de Bruyne fan, although I have plenty more players whom I always admire for their discipline and football endeavor –Messi for his magical left leg, Ronaldo for his leadership, Silva for his simplicity, Aguero for his finishing and Son for his running power.

However, this season 2019—2020 wasn't as easy for City and City fans to end the dream of winning three consecutive EPL trophies. For this year, they are already far behind to catch rival Red Liverpool. Their dream of EPL trophy was over when they lost at home to Norwich. They keep losing more games both at home and away making them absolutely vulnerable to win the EPL title. It's over now!

Nevertheless, there is a little hope for FA Cup and Champion league title, but only if both luck and strength favours them. Anyway, it is too early to claim and predict however, the Champions League would mean a lot to them and Coach Pep! However, #COVID-19 pandemic wars have pushed their dream far away to end this league. 

I pray for the life lost already and fast recovery to those infected by #COVID-19. Let's fight this #COVID-19 together by staying home till this pandemic ends. 

Liverpool in favorite EPL title race, Man city in trouble

I watch many football leagues that happen around the world but not like this year’s premier league season. Unlike other football leagues; Premier League title race is becoming very tight –Both Liverpool and Manchester City are the favorites to win this year’s EPL champions. Anyway, the remaining eight matches will decide their fate. However, Tottenham, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal are also a favorite title contender if possibly both City and Liverpool lose their 4-5 matches.

I have been following Manchester City for little over a decade now and I haven’t seen such a tight race. I know how city have grown under the new boss. Last season (2017-18) was their easiest season. After Peps arrival we have witnessed the new glory of premier league history.  Sir, Alex Ferguson to Manchester United and Mauricio Pochettino to Tottenham have also changed a lot about football mentality. But Jose Mourinho failed for his ill-tempered attitude. 

City have made some silly mistakes –the first and the easiest mistake was when Mahrez missed the last minute penalty at Anfield. Otherwise, Manchester City could have a four point advantage by now. 

Pep has made Manchester City a great football club in the world today. I admire his Tiki Taka tactics (short passing and movement). I always like the way City play their football games.

I watch football not only to support my favorite club but also for other disciplines –time management, friendship, right attitude, cooperation, perseverance, preparation, mental strength, patience, team spirit, focus and respect.

I pray for Manchester City to win this Premier League Title.