JDY

Different roles. Yacob and Cork both screen the defence and act as the anchor, much like Mikel. Whereas Schneiderlin and Mulumbu have more freedom to join attacks when possible, and in general be the more aggressive player when winning back the ball. In effect Schneiderlin would take Ramires' spot, but that doesn't mean the players mentioned can't adapt.

http://www.eplindex.com/29962/epls-underrated-midfields-tactical-stats-comparison-europes-elite.html Worth a read if you have the time. Severely underrated player.

Anyone catch the match earlier? Kevin was pretty average but so was the whole Bremen team. If you have the chance to see it, have a look at Lukimya's mistakes for both of Schalke's goals. It epitomizes Bremen at the back this season. Promising going forward, disaster waiting to happen in defence.

I think 80% of the people in this thread are aware of what his role entails. The only misconception in here is that if you don't rate Mikel highly, or find him to be decent/average at best, then you don't understand his role. It's extremely annoying seeing people being talked down to like they have no clue. Let's not forget that Mikel is only 25 years old (26 later this month). If he can take his game to the next level in the coming years then great. Look at Michael Carrick, the same role except he's a far more complete player than Mikel. He's having the best season of his career at the age of 31, and I can only see him getting better when he has an aggressive ball winner/box-to-box alongside him next season (can certainly upgrade on Cleverley). To me Mikel is a player that does his job well, but nothing more. Carrick is the best holding player in the league because tactically he is excellent, but on top of that his passing is second to none. He screens the defence expertly and plays incisive pass after incisive pass. By this I don't mean 30 yard defence splitting passes, but ones into dangerous areas between the midfield and defence, where players can pick up the ball and be in positions that open up the play. If Mikel can develop into anything similar then there is no need for the DLP that some are crying out for at the moment. I would prefer a more aggressive B2B alongside him.

Nope, Juventus have the most complete midfield IMO

Juventus also have the best midfield trio in Europe, and a back 3 that dominates opponents to the extent where they leave the field feeling like Fernando Torres. That solidity and backbone is something Chalobah will not have if he returns next season. The transition for Pogba cannot be compared.

Indeed. He lacks the discipline at the moment to be a mainstay in their pivot. But I would say that alongside a dominant defensive midfielder (like when they had Gilberto Silva) it wouldn't be such a problem. I wouldn't complain if we got Benat, especially if we get someone like Mourinho in who could take his game to the next level. But at the moment I think his lack of discipline let's him down. Illarramendi has appeared for Spain in all youth levels IIRC. I wouldn't be surprised to see him called up, but then again, I wouldn't be surprised if he isn't! Such a good midfield they have. Yeah, tactical similarities not their styles. I agree, it makes discussing potential transfers a bit pointless at the moment, but I guess there is no harm in starting up conversation early By the way, stop being so selfish with all these quality Spanish midfielders

Yes. Was initially following them since the turn of the year to watch more of Griezmann but Illarramendi really caught the eye, among other players. He's robust in the tackle, tactically he is excellent (where I think Benat falls short). Benat reminds me of Wilshere in the sense that he likes to get forward when the opportunity arises, and also isn't afraid to get stuck in. But as much as he likes to get stuck in, the game can pass him by against better opponents. Illarramendi might not have Benat's passing range, or be as risky as him, but the way he moves reminds me so much of Alonso. He can ping balls across the pitch like there's no tomorrow.

Would prefer Illarramendi over Benat. The more complete player.

Sometimes when you have a different opinion people have to label you a 'hater' because they've convinced themselves that that is the only possible explanation.

Loan for how long? It's not like Cavani is an old man (25/26 IIRC), so he would likely be the undisputed no.1 for some time. Why would Lukaku want to be in and out of the team, or on loan for a long period.

The thing is; what happens to Lukaku if Cavani comes in?

IMO he's very much flavour of the month. He had two stand out performances vs. Barca and United, but has been fairly average when he's played in the league. Marquinhos has been consistently good in Serie A, one of the best in the league. For me he's better at the moment, both are supremely talented though.

Of course

Super Cahill

All the hype is around Varane at the moment but Marquinhos is the best U20 CB in world football. I don't think his style would complement Luiz though, both are similar in the sense that their main strength is coming out and intercepting the ball. I would like to see a stronger presence next to Luiz, someone who can dominate in the air (basically Vidic).

+65 GD now. Nice & challenging for Pep next season..

Why!? Don't rate him? Regarding your question, Philipp Lahm.

Been singing his praises for a while now. He's the best ball winning DM in the league at the moment, along with Sandro. But not only that, from playing in a more advanced position earlier in his career he has good technical ability. He's just signed a new contract though, only drawback.

Lisbon should've won by atleast 5 in normal time, they dominated the whole game.

1-1 now. Very tough game if they go through.

Sporting Lisbon are all over Villa but find themselves 1-0 down. They have a lot of big physical players and some nifty little ones to.

The fact that Ajax would bite your hand off for any inflated figure says enough. He's a good player but is easily replaceable for them.

Clyne is a Chelsea fan also just to add.

Great strength there to win the ball back, what was the keeper doing though. Good finish nonetheless.