Champions' League final countdown: Real v Atletico - Key Men

By David Lee Wheatley

There are numerous fantastic star players about to take the stage at the Estadio da Luz this evening from the ranks of both sides, with a close contest expected between two teams from the city of Madrid.

A small amount of critical moments will determine the destination of the coveted Champions' League trophy and here is a closer look at a selection of the key protagonists who will most likely provide those sublime seconds of inspiration in potentially leading their respective sides to European glory.

Real Madrid: Three to watch

Cristiano Ronaldo (Forward)

The world's greatest player of the past twelve months is without question the chief dangerman in Real Madrid's line-up and the man Atletico most fear. Despite mounting injury concerns over the last few weeks, the Portuguese superstar is almost certain to start on the left-hand side of the forward line alongside revered colleagues Bale and Benzema. Ronaldo's explosive pace, tricky dribbling skills and ruthless finishing make him an absolute nightmare for opposition defences to control. Even if Atletico attempt to double-up on him, Ronaldo will find a way through. If Real are to emerge victorious this evening, Cristiano will have to be at his imperious best.

Sergio Ramos (Centre-back)

No-nonsense defender Ramos has been the rock upon which Real Madrid have built their run to the final this season, with his dominant and inspirational performances driving Los Blancos on through the rounds all the way to Lisbon. His aerial ability in the opposition box was crucial when scoring twice away to Bayern Munich at the semi-final stage, with his double helping Real to an astounding 4-0 rout of the reigning champions. Extremely comfortable on the deck, strong in the air and a motivational force for his team-mates, Ramos is vital to the solidity of Real's defensive unit tonight. However, his discipline often deserts him when under physical pressure and therefore he must remain calm in the heat of battle.

Angel Di Maria (Left midfield)

Argentine international Di Maria appeared to be heading out of the exit door at the Bernabeu last summer, with the arrival of new head coach Carlo Ancelotti expected to signal the end of his Real Madrid career. However, he remained with a ringing endorsement of his talents from the new man in charge giving him added belief to secure a regular spot in the starting eleven. Di Maria cemented his place on the left of midfield despite stiff competition from the likes of Isco and Jese. Meanwhile, Gareth Bale has been utilised on the right of a three-man forward line, instead of his favoured left-hand side thanks partly to Di Maria. His accurate crossing, penchant for beating a man and tireless work ethic make him a dream for any manager and his assist-making qualities could prove the difference between the two sides this evening.

Atletico Madrid: Three to watch

Diego Costa (Striker)

36-goal Brazilian/Spanish centre-forward Diego Costa is a pure fighter; competitive, physical and a constant nuisance for defenders to cope with. This season has been a major breakthrough year and his goals have been the catalyst behind Atletico's glorious campaign so far. Costa has battled hamstring, knee and thigh problems in recent weeks, but trained yesterday in the hope of making it for the highly anticipated final. Coach Simeone will select Costa even if only half-fit, due to the magnitude of the match and also for everything the controversial striker brings to the team. He holds the ball up supremely well, constantly niggles opponents with unceremonious levels of physicality and revels in putting the ball into the back of the net any which way he can. Aerially he is very difficult to stop and Sergio Ramos will need to be fully focused in order to keep him quiet during what is expected to be a mighty duel between the tetchy twosome.

Thibaut Courtois (Goalkeeper)

22-year-old goalkeeper Courtois has been in sensational form throughout his three-year loan spell away from parent club Chelsea, but has been almost unbeatable throughout this season in particular. Despite being farmed out by the Blues, the 6ft 6ins giant has gone on to prove himself to be one of the very best keepers in the business. Commanding, agile and alert, Belgian Courtois will be under the cosh for the majority of the game against Real's plethora of attacking threats and must continue his fine form if he wishes to carry off the Champions' League trophy come the end of the game.

Diego Godin (Centre-back)

Uruguayan Godin makes up one half of an incredibly impressive central defensive pairing with fellow South American Miranda, which conceded only 26 goals in 38 matches during the domestic league campaign and additionally helped their team in restricting European opposition to just six strikes from 12 Champions' League fixtures. Godin is a true leader, with superb positional sense and reading of the game. His colleague Miranda has come on leaps and bounds after a shaky start to his time at the Vicente Calderon and has a lot to thank Godin for in relation to the assistance and direction he has given him. The 28-year-old will throw himself in front of every single ball and that never-say-die attitude will undoubtedly be in evidence tonight when Atletico go for Champions' League immortality.

Check out the rest of my Champions' League final preview on this blog right now, with a look at both managers, their tactical plans and likely line-ups:

Carlo Ancelotti and Real Madrid - http://dlwsports.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/champions-league-final-countdown.html

Diego Simeone and Atletico Madrid - http://dlwsports.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/champions-league-final-countdown_24.html

Twitter: @davewh1980

Champions' League final countdown: The Managers - Diego Simeone

By David Lee Wheatley

Atletico head coach Diego Simeone has garnered a tremendous reputation as a manager during the last two-and-a-half years in charge of the club he once represented as a player.

Following two Argentine championships with Estudiantes and River Plate, the call to take over at his former side came in December 2011 after a short spell at the helm of Italian outfit Catania. Simeone immediately set about the task with relish and led Atleti to a Europa League trophy in his first season back at the Vicente Calderon. A UEFA Super Cup medal was added soon after, but nothing could have prepared the club's vociferous supporters for what treats lay ahead.

Simeone was a hard-tackling central midfielder who played an integral part in the league and domestic cup double of 1996, which was in fact the last occasion that Atletico lifted La Liga. Thanks largely to his unshakeable belief, utter determination and brilliant man-management skills, the ex-Argentine international became the driving force behind an unlikely return to the top of the Spanish game on a tight budget and against all the odds. The 44-year-old has created a remarkable team spirit amongst his squad, while installing a tactical plan that makes his side tremendously tough to break down.

They tend to set-up shop in an old-fashioned 4-4-2 formation, with the physicality of deadly striker Diego Costa absolutely crucial to their ambitions of victory. However, the 25-year-old has been struggling with injury and remains a slight doubt. Simeone will be desperate to include him in his first eleven and it is widely expected that Costa will indeed take his place in the starting line-up.

The extreme reliability of Atletico's back-four has been a feature of their campaign this term, with Simeone able to select a settled defence throughout the season. Juanfran and Luis are effective wing-backs on the right and left respectively, while Godin and the much-improved Miranda have arguably been one of the finest centre-back pairings in Europe. Meanwhile, the tall and agile on-loan keeper Thibaut Courtois has been in sublime form throughout his three-year spell at the club. Real Madrid's wonderful array of attacking talent will certainly have their work cut out to get the better of their disciplined opponents.

Myriad options exist in Atletico's midfield, with Arda Turan seemingly fit after a knock, thus handing Simeone yet another boost. Gabi, Suarez, Sosa, Koke, Diego and Tiago will all be looking to secure a spot from the beginning of the Lisbon final, but only four will make it. I believe Turan and Koke will be on the wings, as the experienced duo Tiago and captain Gabi sit in the centre of the park. Then, either David Villa or, more likely, Raul Garcia will be in the frame to sit off Diego Costa in a deeper position.

It will take another Herculean effort from Simeone's men to claim an historic double after a draining league season that has sapped much of the squad's energy, thus leaving behind a group of players who're a little bruised and battered from their exertions. However, they have claimed a win and a draw during the league campaign against their arch-rivals and, if anyone can motivate the team to lift themselves once more, it is Diego Simeone.

His team will look to sit deep, flood midfield and hit their opponents on the counter-attack at every opportunity. They've proved themselves to be the best side in Spain this season over 38 games, while knocking out European heavyweights such as Chelsea, Barcelona and Milan on their journey to the Champions' League final. Despite Real Madrid shading the betting as slight favourites, it is clearly conceivable to envisage a night which will unfold with the newly-crowned Spanish kings coming away from Lisbon with the spoils yet again.

This glittering season has already exceeded the club's wildest expectations, so why can't the dream continue just a little longer?

Twitter: @davewh1980

Champions' League final countdown: The Managers - Carlo Ancelotti

By David Lee Wheatley

Carlo Ancelotti steps into his seventh European Cup final as a player or manager tonight against a relative novice as a coach on that stage in the shape of Atletico boss Diego Simeone. The Italian claimed two titles in this competition as an AC Milan player, while also winning two more when in charge of the Rossoneri.

He harboured a dream of leading Real Madrid when entrenched at other huge institutions such as Juventus, Chelsea and PSG, with his ambition finally realised last summer. Unfortunately, Ancelotti presided over an inconsistent league campaign which left the Galacticos sitting third. They watched on as city rivals Atleti stole a march on their more illustrious neighbours by winning a first La Liga crown since way back in 1996.

Now, they meet in the biggest club competition final of them all at Benfica's Estadio da Luz in Lisbon with the eyes of the world watching on. Will the vast experience held by 54-year-old prove crucial in determining the outcome of the contest, or can the man ten years his junior spring yet another surprise to go alongside the league championship that Atletico already have in the bag?

Ancelotti's tactical approach is usually to set out a 4-3-3 formation with superstars Bale and Ronaldo lurking dangerously either side of French striker Karim Benzema. Goalkeeper Iker Casillas has been utilised in domestic and European Cup matches this season, as Diego Lopez has handled the league matches. That rotation policy has largely worked and resulted in a Copa del Rey triumph along with their impressive run to the Champions' League showpiece. Carvajal, Pepe and the inspiration Sergio Ramos will almost certainly start, while Marcelo and Coentrao will battle it out for the left-back slot.

Midfield poses a difficult question to Ancelotti, as he must decide on who to select in place of the suspended Xabi Alonso. The former Liverpool lynchpin is extremely influential to the way in which the team operate and will be sorely missed. Asier Illarramendi hasn't shown his potential since leaving Real Sociedad for the Bernabeu, while another option Casemiro hasn't totally convinced either. The man Ancelotti would like to turn to in this situation is German international Sami Khedira, but he has just returned from long-term injury and must be considered a fitness risk. However, he would be the most likely to step into the breach if his status is judged to be 100% ready to feature. Either side of that so-called 'QB' role will be Angel Di Maria on the left and probably Luka Modric to the right.

It's a line-up easily good enough to worry Atletico head coach Simeone on many levels, but he'll have confidence in his own charges that they are fully capable of pulling off yet another significant upset. Meanwhile, Ancelotti will look to take the game to his opponents, with the emphasis on them to break down a stubborn and highly organised side. The pace of both Bale and Ronaldo will be absolutely key in getting beyond the Atletico back-line to cause several problems for the usually reliable Rojiblancos defence.

Pressure will be high on Ancelotti and his men, so he and his backroom staff will need to cope with that and keep the heat off the players. Real Madrid are expected to win according to most observers, while their fans have been desperately seeking 'La Decima' (The 10th title) since a ninth European Champions' Cup victory twelve years ago. Everyone connected with the super-club were convinced a tenth trophy was only around the corner after three glorious Champions' League triumphs in the space of just six years culminating in that 2002 Hampden a Park win, yet they haven't captured it since. La Decima has become an obsession and could even cost Ancelotti his job should they fail to win in Portugal this evening.

Despite all of the talk and chatter going on in the background surrounding this massive fixture and the manager's future, it must be remembered that Carlo Ancelotti has seen and done it all before. The amiable Italian coach won't be overawed by the occasion or wilt under the weight of expectation on his shoulders. Furthermore, a victory would make him only the second manager in history to plunder three European Cups after the great Bob Paisley.

What a night it would be for him to make history both on a personal note and in the name of arguably the greatest club side on the globe.

Twitter: @davewh1980

 

New Celtic manager: Who's in the frame?

By David Lee Wheatley

Neil Lennon’s decision to step down as manager of Scottish Premiership giants Glasgow Celtic after four years at the helm has set the rumour mill in motion regarding who his replacement could possibly be.

Here, I focus on the main men in the frame for the much sought-after position at Parkhead.

 

Owen Coyle (Unattached)

Former Republic of Ireland international striker Coyle has a strong affinity with Celtic stretching back to his childhood, when growing up a Bhoys fan prior to making his way in the game as a footballer. The Celtic Park job was offered to him in the past, but he turned it down in order to pursue the dream of managing in the English top-flight instead. Massively popular during his time as manager of Burnley, Paisley-born Coyle led the Lancastrian side to promotion from the Championship at the first time of asking, before controversially leaving his post mid-season to join established Premier League side Bolton Wanderers. That move soured his relationship with Burnley supporters and his subsequent spell at the club he represented as a player didn’t work out, as he presided over a relegation campaign prior to termination of his contract two months into the following term. An ill-fated six-month spell with Wigan Athletic last year saw Coyle and chairman Dave Whelan at loggerheads over a number of issues, prompting the owner’s ruthless decision to replace him with Uwe Rosler. Coyle would be expected to work within a budget should he attain the Celtic role and has previous experience of having to do just that throughout his managerial career to date. A successful stint at St. Johnstone preceded his departure for Burnley, however, later problems at both Bolton and Wigan provokes doubt over the Scot’s suitability for the Hoops’ hot-seat.

David Moyes (Unattached)

Moyes is a former Celtic defender, who did a highly commendable job at Everton before falling foul of the Fergie factor at Manchester United. It was always going to be a huge task to replace Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford and it inevitably proved far too much for the ex-Preston boss when faced with mounting problems amid a late-season fan revolt. However, those eleven years of relative success at Goodison Park should not be discounted from his record and the solid, if unspectacular, style of play he prefers would make Celtic a tough nut to crack both domestically and in Europe. Meanwhile, Moyes’ recent fleeting glimpse of Champions’ League football at United may prove invaluable to Celtic’s long-term ambitions abroad, with a distinct lack of competition on Scottish shores. The budgetary constraints in place at Celtic Park would almost certainly be an obstacle to any hopes the club’s hierarchy have of recruiting the 51-year-old, but he’d undoubtedly be a hugely popular choice among supporters due to his previous allegiances.

Malky Mackay (Unattached)

Another ex-Celtic central defender Malky Mackay is among the favourites for the role and would again appeal to Celtic’s fervent fans if appointed. Mackay is a more realistic option than Moyes and his reputation as a manager is still burgeoning thanks to impressive spells in charge at Watford and Cardiff City. He took the Bluebirds to automatic promotion prior to receiving the Championship Manger of the Year award in 2013 for his efforts. However, despite the Welsh side sitting above the Premier League relegation zone at Christmas, Mackay was fired by owner Vincent Tan for allegedly wasting transfer funds on under-par players. The former Norwich City and West Ham United stalwart left his post with the support of the fans still firmly behind him to be replaced by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who took them down. Now, Mackay is ready for a new challenge and would relish the opportunity of taking a shot at the Celtic job.

Jackie McNamara (Dundee United)

Keeping the theme going, McNamara represented Celtic as a player in excess of 250 times and would be welcomed back with open arms by many supporters. A sound start to his managerial career at Partick Thistle alerted bigger clubs to his potential and Dundee United took him on midway through the 2012/13 campaign. His stock has continued rising ever since, as the former right full-back inspired a run to the Scottish Cup final and a 4^th-place league finish in his first full campaign with the Terrors. Unfortunately, they lost out to St. Johnstone at the home of Celtic in the final tie, but that hasn’t stopped persistent links with the now vacant Parkhead position. Furthermore, it’d be incredibly difficult for McNamara to turn down any offer that may come his way from chief executive Peter Lawwell, the man tasked with finding Neil Lennon’s successor.

Henrik Larsson (Falkenbergs)

Celtic hero Larsson has been head coach of Swedish outfit Falkenbergs for a short few months having taken over at the Allsvenskan side in December last year. The 42-year-old stood out as the SPL’s all-time leading goalscorer until surpassed by Kris Boyd in 2009 and retains cult status in the East End of Glasgow. His inexperience as a manager would count against him during any selection process, but that would be outweighed somewhat by the excitement generated by his return. However, entrusting the former striker with the keys to the Celtic kingdom may have to wait a few years yet.

Steve Clarke (Unattached)

Having coached both youth and senior sides at several top clubs in England, Steve Clarke’s array of experience would stand him in good stead should he harbour any interest in becoming Celtic supremo at this juncture of his career. Clarke acted as assistant manager to Ruud Gullit when with Newcastle United, Jose Mourinho and Avram Grant at Chelsea, former team-mate Gianfranco Zola at West Ham United and legendary Scot Kenny Dalglish when employed at Liverpool, while picking up a vast amount of knowledge throughout that 14-year period. Indeed, he was credited with having had a significant impact at many of those clubs, with his influence helping Chelsea to a stunning series of domestic successes in particular. The Ayrshire native decided to strike out on his own as a manager with West Bromwich Albion in June 2012, eventually ending a brilliant eighth in the table. Things went awry in his second season, resulting in a slightly harsh mid-December sacking. Despite that setback, former Scotland international Clarke still retains many admirers within the game and may be handed the chance to take the reins at Celtic in a bid to usher in a new era of youth development at the club.

Paul Lambert (Aston Villa)

An outside bet, the European Cup winner during his playing days with Borussia Dortmund would appear a perfect fit for Parkhead. Lambert bossed the Celtic midfield for nearly eight years following a move back from Germany and is still revered on the Celts. Starting out with a stint in charge of Livingston, Lambert found a reasonable level of success with Wycombe Wanderers and Colchester United in the lower reaches of the English game prior to a switch to Norwich City. The Canaries were languishing in League One when the Scot received the call to take over at Carrow Road, but Lambert was able to spark a magnificent revival encompassing two successive promotion campaigns all the way to the promised land of the Premier League. He went on to keep the club up in the top-flight by a whisker, before leaving to join Aston Villa after Alex McLeish was released. It’s been a tough two terms at Villa Park, with successive relegation flirtations followed up by the recent announcement that owner Randy Lerner wants to sell up. That places Lambert in a precarious position and he may want, or be forced into, a fresh start elsewhere.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Transfer window: Manchester United's top targets

 

By David Lee Wheatley

 

 

There’s a massive rebuilding job to do at Manchester United Football Club and hugely experienced Dutchman Louis van Gaal has been entrusted with undertaking the gigantic task ahead. Many current stars will leave through the doors of Old Trafford over the course of this summer, including stalwarts Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand. With turmoil surrounding the club following such an awful season last time out under the doomed leadership of David Moyes and the recent arrival of a new manager with fresh ideas, this will be period of substantial change for the Red Devils. With that in mind, I take a look at some of the new faces we could potentially see in a United shirt come August, as the Premier League heavyweights attempt to mount a challenge for domestic honours that remained way out of their reach throughout the disappointing 2013/14 campaign.

 

ARJEN ROBBEN (Bayern Munich)

Louis van Gaal’s fellow Dutchman Arjen Robben has been earmarked as one of his new club’s priorities during this transfer window and the 30-year-old could be interested in a switch to United in order to play under his current national team boss. Their links go way back, with Van Gaal responsible for taking the flying winger to Bayern back in 2009, as they proceeded to win the Bundesliga title in their first season together in Germany. Robben has continued to blossom in Bavaria on the right-hand side of their potent forward line, creating havoc with his darting runs, accurate crossing and ruthless eye for goal. Having already featured in the Premier League for Chelsea in the past, the ex-Real Madrid man might be tempted to try his luck on these shores once more having won everything possible during his five-year stint in Munich.

LUKE SHAW (Southampton)

At 18, Luke Shaw is the latest in a long line of impressive graduates from the Southampton academy ranks and he’s made a significant impression on their commendable top-half league finish this season, while forcing his way into England’s World Cup squad ahead of the vastly experienced Chelsea wing-back Ashley Cole. It’s been a campaign of several stunning highs for the teenager and could now be capped off nicely with a move to Manchester United for around £25 million, with the player himself said to have already advised friends he is on the verge of joining the Red Devils. Usual full-back mainstay Patrice Evra has not been offered a new contract, while current understudy Alex Buttner fails to inspire much confidence at the very highest level. Therefore, it is imperative van Gaal brings in an energetic replacement as soon as possible, with the marauding Shaw fitting the bill perfectly.

TONI KROOS (Bayern Munich)

£20 million-rated central midfielder Toni Kroos has long been on Manchester United’s wish-list and recent reports suggest an agreement was struck during the Moyes era for the German international to transfer from Bayern during this close-season. Having changed managers in the meantime, it was possible that latest incumbent to the role van Gaal could have vetoed the move, but he evidently has high hopes for the stylish Kroos after apparently giving his blessing to the deal. The 24-year-old is approaching 50 caps for his country and has been regularly involved at club level under both Jupp Heynckes and Pep Guardiola. Additionally, he also played under van Gaal for one term following a year out on loan at Bayer Leverkusen during the Dutch supremo’s first year in the Bayern hot-seat. If media announcements swirling around the player’s future are to be believed, the pair wlll be reunited at United next season.

CESC FABREGAS (Barcelona)

Another long-term target Cesc Fabregas could be brought in as an attack-minded midfield partner for prospective new signing Toni Kroos, should United’s enduring pursuit of the Catalan finally come to fruition this year after their initial courtship came to nothing last summer. David Moyes was desperate to add the former Arsenal star to his ranks throughout the 2013 close-season window, but eventually failed to deliver the Barca star’s signature and ended up settling for a lesser talent in the shape of Belgian Marouane Fellaini. Having flopped badly last season, he could be on the way out to pastures new, while the likes of Fabregas and Kroos could be handed the midfield mantle alongside the reliable contributions of Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick. Fabregas is an intelligent footballer who shone brightly during his time with the Gunners despite some troubles finding his best form at Barcelona; he is eminently capable of reproducing his sparkling form of the past back in the Premier League.

EDINSON CAVANI (Paris Saint-Germain)

The Uruguayan forward was a qualified hit with Napoli, scoring 78 goals in 104 league appearances during a three-year stay at the San Paolo. However, his big-money move to PSG has seen him played out of position as a winger, when he much prefers featuring as a central striker on his own or in tandem with another. Superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic holds that position as a lone striker; promises made to Cavani on signing that he would play alongside the Swede in a potentially explosive strike partnership were broken and the imagined two-pronged attack never materialised. Again, Manchester United have been fervent fans of the long-haired 27-year-old for some time, with strong rumours circulating that Cavani will indeed swap Paris for the north-west of England in search of his favoured ‘number 9’ role.

MARIO MANDZUKIC (Bayern Munich)

Yet another Bayern star linked with a move to the Premier League is Croatian striker Mario Mandzukic, who is rumoured to be unhappy with the stop-start nature of his involvement in the Die Roten starting line-up under Pep Guardiola. He may feel the time is right to experience a new challenge in England, with several top clubs said to be checking on his availability including Arsenal and Chelsea. On top of the fact that Mandzukic has often been forced to play second fiddle to a midfielder such as Thomas Muller taking his spot up-front, he has also witnessed the transfer saga surrounding lethal Borussia Dortmund striker Robert Lewandowski drag on for months prior to an understanding being found earlier this year. With the Pole likely to become first choice at the Munich giants once his career there begins in earnest, it could spell the end of the ex-Wolfsburg star’s time at the club. However, his goalscoring record with Bayern is mightily impressive and he would be a magnificent asset for United should such a transfer take place.

 

Whoever does come in, they all must be of an extremely high standard in order for the team to dismiss the last campaign as a mere blip and resume their serial position of title challengers, while also regaining a European Champions’ League into the bargain. It’s sure to be a busy summer at Old Trafford, so watch this space!

 

 

Twitter: @davewh1980 



Football Icons - Part 9: Zinedine Zidane

By David Lee Wheatley

Born in Marseille to Algerian parents on 23^rd June 1972, Zinedine Zidane grew up playing football with his neighbours and friends in the main plaza of his housing complex in amongst the concrete high-rises. It was within those humble surroundings that the young Zidane honed his abilities and eventually led to a move across to AS Cannes at the age of fourteen, via two youth teams in which he featured named US Saint-Henri and SO Septèmes-les-Vallons.

Tall, elegant and highly skilful, the attacking midfielder made a first-team debut shortly before his seventeenth birthday in May 1989 against Nantes. His first full campaign of involvement with the senior side culminated in the club’s highest league finish since the forties, thus leading to qualification for the UEFA Cup. His partnership with emerging forwards Amara Simba and George Weah terrorised defences right across France, as the team from the south of the country took Ligue 1 by storm.

Unfortunately, a partial break-up of the squad was inevitable and that summer saw Amara Simba return to his parent club Paris Saint-Germain following his loan spell, while the exciting Weah transferred to glamorous Monaco. That left behind a Cannes line-up bereft of goal threat and they fell alarmingly to 19^th spot and were sadly relegated. That sudden downturn in fortunes led to the exodus of the club’s remaining stars, including the influential ‘Zizou’ to Bordeaux.

The switch to the wine region allowed him to blossom with a big-name outfit and he became integral to the team. It was with Bordeaux that he made his first steps on to the international stage in 1994 and he exploded on to the scene by scoring twice as a substitute against the Czech Republic in a 2-2 draw. Zidane quickly assumed the playmaker role and helped his country to the semi-finals of Euro ’96 in England. However, his performances weren’t up to his very best standard throughout the tournament, with many observers believing an imminent move to Juventus in Italy was affecting his game in some way.

This was in stark contrast to his exploits at club level, where he was named Ligue 1 Player of the Year for 1996, while assisting Bordeaux to the final of the UEFA Cup. Disappointingly for Zidane, they were convincingly beaten over two legs by Bayern Munich. Remarkably, Les Girondins made it all the way to that showpiece event from a mid-summer Intertoto Cup victory which led to their participation in the UEFA Cup initially. It was a run which included fine triumphs over the likes of Real Betis and Milan as they made their way arduously through to a meeting with the Bavarian giants, who proved too strong for them in the end.

Serie A awaited for the Frenchman, with a move to Turin giants Juventus confirmed post-Euros having been mooted throughout the competition. Some doubted his ability to shine on the highest level following some inconsistent performances for his national team, but he proved that notion wholly incorrect when spearheading a Scudetto and Champions’ League charge with Juve. The Bianconeri claimed the Italian league title by a two-point margin from closest challengers Parma, but failed in their quest for the European Cup at the Olympiastadion against a resolute Borussia Dortmund.

Juventus retained their crown the following season, with Zidane in imperious form with seven goals from 32 league appearances. Yet, the Champions’ League trophy alluded him once again thanks to a narrow loss against Real Madrid in the black-and-white’s third consecutive final.

That summer, Zidane stood out at the World Cup finals held in his homeland during the summer of 1998. Despite the midfield man receiving a red card for a stamp on a Saudi opponent in the second group match of the tournament, he played an crucial part in the run to a final meeting with Brazil at the Stade de France and came alive in front of goal with two crucial headers putting Les Bleus two-up. Fellow midfielder Emmanuel Petit sealed the victory with a third, prompting a party on the Champs-Elysees involving over one million people dancing in the streets with utter joy. The Juventus star was hailed as the hero of a nation, as illustrated by his image having been projected on to the Arc de Triomphe in recognition of his achievements during the festivities. Furthermore, Zidane was named FIFA World Player of the Year after his exploits for both club and country.

Another three seasons in Juve colours cemented him as one of the greatest footballers of his generation, but the Italian club lost their grip on the Scudetto during that period, ending as runners-up in the league table twice within that time.

Meanwhile, France hammered home their domination of international football by claiming the European Championship title in 2000 when defeating Italy in extra-time of a closely contested final. French football was on top of the world, with both global and continental competitions captured, and Zidane’s stock was at its pinnacle come 2001; the Galacticos project was in full swing at Real Madrid and the only step up on offer for the majestic assist-maker was a switch to the Spanish capital joining up with arguably the greatest club side in the universe. A fee in the region of 75m euros was agreed to take him away from Turin following five sterling years of service in order to begin a new chapter with a team looking to obliterate all obstacles to their lofty ambitions of European success.

Zidane signed a four-year contract at the Bernabeu when joining up with superstars such as Luis Figo, Iker Casillas, Roberto Carlos, Raul, Claude Makelele and many others in a squad brimming with quality. The decision to leave Juventus in search of greater accomplishments proved the correct one, with Real winning the 2002 Champions’ League to secure a title which previously escaped the former Bordeaux man throughout his stay in Italy. Zidane scored one of the most remarkable volleys ever witnessed at Hampden Park in the final tie with Germans Bayer Leverkusen, expertly swivelling to connect with his left foot before sending the ball crashing into the roof of the net. That strike turned out to be the match-winner and delivered Real’s ninth European Cup in their history, adding that prestigious medal to Zidane’s already impressive collection.

At international level, France lost their talisman due to a thigh injury for the opening two fixtures of the 2002 World Cup and by the time he was restored to the side it was too late; they dropped out of the tournament in the first round having failed to garner even a solitary goal from three group matches. It was a wretched attempt from the Champions of Europe to defend their position at top of the world game and suggested they were nothing without Zidane’s considerable influence.

La Liga was Real's the following year back in Madrid and yet another FIFA World Player of the Year accolade wound its way to the Marseille-born genius in celebration of his magnificent feats on the football field and those silky skills which so entranced fans and opponents alike. His passing accuracy, penchant for scoring important goals, sublime vision and ease on the ball made Zidane a fantastic spectacle to behold and placed the Frenchman among the footballing elite, both in a contemporary sense and historically.

France made it through to the quarter-finals of Euro 2004, as if to confirm their rapid fall from grace on the international stage. With that, Zidane hastily announced his intention to retire from national duty, only to return at the behest of coach Raymond Domenech for a qualifier in September 2005 against the Faroe Islands when it became apparent that the French were in grave danger of missing out on the German-hosted World Cup of 2006.

Thanks largely to the reinstatement of old hands Zidane, Thuram and Makalele to the set-up, Les Bleus managed to rescue the qualification campaign and duly take their spot at the World Cup. With Zidane installed as captain and inspirational leader, they went all the way to the final in hugely exceeding most observers’ expectations, but lost to Marcello Lippi’s defiant Italian team. Zidane had made public his decision to give up professional football at the conclusion of the World Cup in early May and therefore everybody knew the clash in Berlin would be his last.

It initially seemed that fate may have been on his side when Zizou nudged France in front after seven minutes from the penalty spot, Marco Materazzi levelled on 19 minutes and the contest laboured into extra-time. Zidane almost notched again with a header during the first period, but the excellent Gianluigi Buffon was equal to his effort. It was in the 110^th minute of proceedings, in the dying embers of the match-up, when the most extraordinary incident unfolded involving the two goalscorers. The two foes squared up prior to Zidane unleashing a ferocious head-butt firmly into the chest of the strapping Azzurri defender. A distinct feeling of shock was palpable around the Olympiastadion, due to the speed at which the situation flared-up merely from a case of shirt-pulling into the scuffle that ensued. Though no shrinking violet – his red card in the final was a fourteenth of his distinguished career – most onlookers usually chose to focus on the marvel and wonderment often created by the artistry of Zidane, as opposed to various unsavoury misdemeanours.

He unfortunately tarnished his heroic reputation somewhat by indulging in such volatile behaviour, thus blotting his copybook on the very last football match he would take part in after a sparkling 17 years in the professional game. Italy went on to claim victory by way of a penalty shoot-out, while the Golden Ball winner (for being voted Player of the Tournament) was unable to effect the outcome in any way. It later became clear that Materazzi had been ‘trash-talking’ in the direction of his opponent, which resulted in an insult spewing out of the Italian’s mouth pertaining to Zidane’s sister. The 34-year-old’s response was to become the aggressor and lash out with his head towards Materazzi and that last-ever action on a football pitch was burned on to the memory of those in attendance and viewing at home.

However, the overall consensus surrounding Zidane was that his supreme ability as a footballer far outweighed any disciplinary indiscretions and that he should be remembered as one of the greatest footballers of his era.

Following 108 caps for his country, numerous domestic and continental titles to his name and an abundance of personal accolades to look back on with fondness, Zidane retired from football completely when still enjoying his best form. Many of his supporters wished Zidane to continue and try to erase the image of his mistake in the World Cup final, while also dragging a few more years out of his tiring body. But, he stuck to his guns and did not return.

Instead, Zidane now acts as an assistant coach to Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid, as they search for their fabled tenth European Champions’ Cup this weekend in Lisbon against city rivals Atletico Madrid. After 12 years of trying for ‘La Decima’ since the Frenchman’s stunning strike in Glasgow brought up their ninth triumph, perhaps this could finally be the time to do it.  

Twitter: @davewh1980 

Bayern must keep faith with Guardiola

By David Lee Wheatley

Fresh from his celebratory beer-soaking yesterday afternoon following a 1-0 victory over Stuttgart at the Allianz Arena in the last league fixture of a title-winning campaign, Bayern head coach Pep Guardiola now looks ahead to the DFB-Pokal final next week in which he hopes to secure the double during his first season in charge of the German giants.

Much has been written and said railing against the former Barcelona supremo's insistence on the enforcement of his famed possession-based tactical philosophy after the Bavarians bowed out of the Champions' League in meek fashion to Real Madrid at the semi-final stage. Many observers feel that Pep simply doesn't have a 'Plan B' to fall back on when his tiki-taka approach isn't working satisfactorily enough.

Despite the growing number of doubters, it's difficult to argue against his side's domestic dominance which has Bayern sitting at the top of the table by an incredible 19-point margin above closest challengers Borussia Dortmund, whom they also meet in Berlin for the showpiece Cup final next Saturday. The Munich outfit have plundered 29 wins from 34 games played, while drawing three and losing just two; both defeats coming after the league crown had been confirmed.

A potential double on home soil, coupled with a run to the last four of Europe's premier competition, would normally be more than adequate at most clubs. However, the reigning continental and World Club Cup holders have been heavily spoiled by their extraordinary success of recent years and are struggling to adjust to the fact that they haven't made yet another Champions' League final.

What must be noted is that Guardiola is in the midst of a huge task that will take time to fully integrate and indeed should eventually pay handsome dividends if the club's hierarchy and fanatical support show patience towards the Catalan tactical guru. He took over a Bayern side that was all about power, pace and physical presence; now he wants to keep that to an extent, allied to his favoured style of passing, movement and high pressing. It's not an overnight job and that has to be recognised in order for Pep to finally realise his ultimate goal of leading the Germans to the greatest heights in their history.

Guardiola himself recently stated: "I cannot be Bayern coach if I have to say things I don't agree with. That would be bad for the club and for the players, who are intelligent. They wouldn't trust me if I wasn't true to myself.

"It's up to the club to decide whether I'm the right coach for this club. That's not up to me.

"The team must play according to the ideas of the coach. I am convinced that is the only solution for the club.

"I didn't come here to change German football culture any more than that of Bayern. But when I speak to my players on a daily basis I can't talk about ideas in which I don't believe."

This is his way, his understanding of the game as it should be played and his mantra which he will stick with no matter what; there is no way on earth that the highly-decorated coach will alter his plans now to curry favour with the media or his employers. Guardiola has unwavering belief in his methods and 14 trophies over the course of four enthralling years in charge down in Catalonia says he's correct to stay with what works for him.

Of course, it was acutely disappointing for Bayern to lose out so embarrassingly to Real Madrid during that 0-4 drubbing at home in the semi-final second leg, but they absolutely have to hang on to their Spaniard and give him all the backing they can muster. It's my firm opinion that Guardiola's philosophy will pay off in the medium and long-term should the Bavarian decision-makers show their support for him throughout the remainder of his contract.

It would be a huge mistake to cut the cord at this point when Pep's project is still in its infancy and the Bundesliga shield is surely just the first of many trophies that will wind their way into an already full-to-bursting trophy cabinet in the near future.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Premier League: Manager of the Year candidates

By David Lee Wheatley

This Premier League campaign has proved to be one of the most exciting in living memory and several managers have each done a wonderful job at their respective clubs. Here are six men who I believe are the most outstanding candidates for the LMA Manager of the Year award:

Brendan Rodgers (Liverpool)

The Northern Irishman has fulfilled the huge potential most observers believed he had within to lead Liverpool on an unexpected title charge this season. However, it appears the Premier League trophy is Manchester City's following the Reds' recent slips at home to Chelsea and away at Crystal Palace, but that doesn't cloud over the wonderful job Rodgers has done at Anfield in guaranteeing the club Champions' League football next term. A top-three finish beckons for a young manager widely regarded as one of the finest in the game and don't bet against another championship challenge during 2014/15.

Roberto Martinez (Everton)

FA Cup winner Martinez left Wigan Athletic following relegation to the Championship, but his exploits in the game's most prestigious domestic knockout competition had many bigger clubs circling for his services. Having lost David Moyes after eleven years at the helm, Everton chairman Bill Kenwright sought to deliver a bright, youthful manager who could harness an attractive style of play while getting results. Therefore, he turned to the Spaniard and he certainly hasn't disappointed; blending both the physical attributes of the Toffees' defensive line with a free-flowing passing game which helped the Merseysiders to fifth spot. Though just missing out on Champions' League qualification, this campaign has illustrated the promise within the Goodison squad under the tutelage of the affable 40-year-old and also dispelled early doubts among the supporters over his credentials to undertake the task in hand.

Mauricio Pochettino (Southampton)

Another season of progress has been enjoyed at St. Mary's under another bright star in the coaching world Mauricio Pochettino, leading to much speculation over his future on the south coast. Eighth-place in the league represents a fine return, while the emergence and steady improvement of the young stars under Pochettino's care has proved his ability to bring the best out of his players. The likes of Lallana, Shaw and Rodriguez have shone throughout the year, with all three pushing incredibly hard for World Cup squad places alongside elder statesman Rickie Lambert. It seems the only way is up should the Saints manage to keep hold of their highly-rated Argentine tactician.

Steve Bruce (Hull City)

Bruce recovered from a rather bruising period in charge of Sunderland to lead Hull City back to the top-flight, before finding mid-table security this term. Moreover, the ex-Manchester United defender has overseen a fine FA Cup run all the way to a final meeting with Arsenal later this month at Wembley. The Northumberland native also guaranteed Europa League football at the KC Stadium through that extraordinary journey to the final, as the Gunners already have Champions' League action to look forward to. Should 50-year-old Bruce leads his side to Cup glory, this campaign will undoubtedly go down as the greatest in the Tigers' entire history.

Gustavo Poyet (Sunderland)

Uruguayan Poyet took over a team languishing at the bottom of the table with one point and seemingly doomed to relegation, but he injected a new lease of life into the squad in taking them all the way to the Capital One Cup final in March and giving a measure of hope to long-suffering fans that there was still a chance of Premier League safety. His side showed decent form following his arrival in October until a lull set in following Wembley defeat at the beginning of March. However, despite odds heavily stacked against them, the Black Cats rescued their season with four wins on the trot to seal security in the top division with one match still to play. In doing so, they became only the second team in the Premier League era to stay up despite sitting bottom of the pile at Christmas. Poyet requested a miracle when his side lay seven points adrift with six games remaining and that is exactly what he got, due in no small part to his sterling efforts.

Tony Pulis (Crystal Palace)

Experienced campaigner Tony Pulis had a similar scenario to Poyet when taking on a mammoth challenge to keep a struggling Crystal Palace in the promised land of the Premier League with only four points on the board when he walked through the door. Assessing the squad in detail and making judgements based on the personnel at his disposal, the Welshman tailored his tactics to suit the players he inherited and the tireless work he's put in has reaped great rewards. The south Londoners shot up the standings thanks to a much more organised approach and are sitting pretty in 11th-place thanks to an unbelievable set of results culminating in a comfortable mid-table position. Pulis deserves huge credit for taking the so-called 'no-hopers' from the abyss of the bottom three to an ultimately fine season in the end.

Twitter: @davewh1980

Madrid masters to meet in Lisbon final

By David Lee Wheatley

Atletico Madrid swept Chelsea aside last night with an abundant display of power, pace and control which left Mourinho's men trailing in their wake.

It was yet another fabulous performance from the Spanish league leaders that confirmed their position as one of the leading teams in European football and further enhanced the growing reputation of Argentine head coach Diego Simeone.

The last occasion when these two sides met at Stamford Bridge resulted in the Blues easing past their rivals with an emphatic 4-0 victory during the 2009/10 group stages, but Chelsea faced a very different beast this time and they simply couldn't cope with the relentless pressure placed upon them in the second half of the match.

Fernando Torres, a former Atletico star and still an ardent fan, handed the lead to his current club after 36 minutes with a smart 15-yard finish - aided by a slight Miranda deflection - following a neat cross from the right by Azpilicueta. The Madrid native refused to celebrate out of respect, but his precious goal gave Chelsea something tangible to defend after a tedious 0-0 draw in the Spanish capital last week.

At that stage, the 2012 Champions of Europe were shading affairs with two-thirds of possession in their favour and appeared to be in the ascendancy. However, sloppy defending a minute prior to half-time completely altered the complexion of the tie when Adrian hit his close-range strike into the deck before it looped up into the roof of the net. It could've all been avoided had Eden Hazard switched on when tracking back, but his lack of focus allowed easy passage for wing-back Juanfran to send the ball across the box and with three other statuesque Chelsea defenders unable to clear, Adrian was left with a relatively straightforward finish.

John Terry came close to restoring the hosts advantage with a towering header eight minutes after the restart, but Chelsea employee Thibaut Courtois got down quickly to complete a crucial save for Atletico. It must have been a sickening blow for Mourinho knowing that a decision made last summer to leave the Belgian on loan in Spain for a third term on the trot has backfired so spectacularly, with the 21-year-old proving a key component of this wildly successful Atletico campaign.

Sub Samuel Eto'o made his way on to the field shortly afterwards and his opening contribution was to clumsily fell prolific forward Diego Costa in the penalty area. The same player jumped up to take the kick after a lengthy delay, during which the fearsome striker scuffed and scraped the penalty spot substantially with his studs due to the slight movement of the ball each time he placed it on the pitch, and then proceeded to vanquish any jitters he may have suffered to bury it into the top left-hand corner.

Chelsea were frustrated moments later when David Luiz's effort came back off the post with keeper Courtois beaten all ends up and they were made to rue that miss when conceding again at the other end.

Hazard was caught sleeping at the back once more on 72 minutes when Juanfran ghosted in at the far post unopposed before floating in a superb cross for the unmarked Arda Turan to attack. His splendid onrushing header cannoned off the crossbar, but a slice of luck saw the rebound fall kindly to the feet of Turan and he tucked it away smartly to seal the deal for the impressive visitors.

Simeone's team took total charge thereafter, with Chelsea chasing shadows for the most part. It showed great intelligence from a side brimming with confidence to protect and care for the ball in such a competent manner, as they now approach the zenith of their most remarkable season in decades.

A long 40-year wait for Atletico to reach a Champions' Cup final is over, while the upcoming clash also represents the very first same-city derby to take place in any European final. Meanwhile, they remain just two wins away from La Liga glory domestically above their celebrated Madrid neighbours.

History beckons for the Rojiblancos and their highly-rated leader Simeone, who has transformed the fortunes of a squad that were languishing within mid-table obscurity when he arrived in December 2011. They couldn't have believed such a remarkable renaissance was possible when he came on board initially, but the former defensive midfielder has far exceeded expectations thus leaving the club teetering on the brink of their most successful period ever.

Twitter: @davewh1980