Village Idiot

Can't see it happening in a WC year, maybe in the summer. He's getting a shitload of homages and lifetime awards lately, smells of retirement/Qatar/MLS. Will see sad to see one of the best players we've ever had go, but at the same time will forces us to face it and try to actually replace him.

It tends to be like that every time we play Atlético under Simeone. He's very good at muddling a game, disabling our strengths and putting his into play. Ah well, a point at their place isn't too bad on the big picture. Madrid's got a chance to close onto the top though.

http://i.imgur.com/hRb7xHb.jpg

http://images.wikia.com/potcoplayers/images/9/9b/Release-the-kraken.jpg

Alexis and Pedro's work rate are the correct choice against Atlético, imho. Incidentally if I'm not mistaken, the winner would complete the best half of La Liga of all time, which speaks volumes of Atlético's form.

Neither is fully fit; against such a physical side as Atlético it would be a mistake to start them. Not too confindent about tonight; we have always had a hard time at the Vicente Calderón, against much shitter Atlético sides.

What's his level though? He's only performed in the MLS and in a league where Alfonso Alves scored 30+ goals.

Had a bit of a cuntish streak, like a lot of superstars

The basketball team where my little brother played did that. They had a pair of identical twins, except one was shit and the other amazing; the good one was once fouled out and they just switched shirts in the dressing rooms during half time

Altidore is such a fraud

FCBarcelona ‏@BarcaStat 8h Most Barcelona goals+assists this season (all official comps) #fcblive Cesc 23 Neymar 21 Messi 20 Pedro 20 Alexis 15 Xavi 7 Interesting. Cesc has ultimately flourished in the false #9 role, by just dropping deeper and becoming a #10 with the wingers cutting inside. Wonder how Messi will fit into this dynamic now. Ridiculous that he still has such a big productivity despite being out for most of the season.

Well, he's only managed in Segunda División and Betis so far, hardly a pedigree appointment. Mel is very positive indeed, bordering on the "too much for his own good". No matter if it was Osasuna at home or away at the Camp Nou; high defence line, high pressure on the ball, his players always went for it. This resulted in the occasional bumming, but Betis fans were very proud. They were fuming when he was sacked (his replacement has performed worse). He coached a club in administration, promoted it, and took it to the Europa League playing very nice football.

I like Mel a lot, hope he can make the jump to a different league Betis were one of the most pleasing teams in La Liga to watch. Very daring too.

Christ They have been trying to oust their current board (which are indeed massive crooks) by all means imaginable. It indeed got out of hand yesterday.

Racing Santander fans assaulted the board box and beat some of their board members in yesterday's cup game. I'm torn between or EDIT: Definitely

I'm too drunk, szorry

Marca claiming Alonso will sign a 2 year extension

He's back

Heard this on the news today. We knew it was coming, but it's still a shambles. The FAs will do owt since their palms are lined by UEFA (Spanish FA president for example is part of UEFA ruling commission). But I don't expect the leagues and clubs taking to this kindly, they aren't particularly fond of international football as it stands already. Also, the thought of La Liga playing in the middle of August

I'm on the verge of replying to this thread.

Gladbach just confirmed that Ter Stegen will leave this summer. Hope it is to us.

Truth is they do need some bodies in, but they can't pay for them. Can see their squad coming apart at the seams at the business end of the season otherwise, which would be a pity.

Samaras linked to Atlético. True that they lack depth upfront, but... Samaras? He isn't even particularly dominating in the SPL. Happens when you're utterly in debt despite being gold on the pitch, I suppose.

Dad always used to tell me how he was the most fearsome presence he's ever seen on a pitch. RIP.

Alexis hat trick, never thought I would see the day. Him and Pedro have been top notch during Messi's absence.