January Transfer Window: Look Ahead For Barca

             With drawing English Premier League Champion’s of 2011-12, Manchester City, FC Barcelona have a daunting task ahead of them if they are to progress any further in Champions League.

          But they sit on top of La Liga tied with Atletico Madrid, both having 50 points and 3 points ahead of fierce rivals Real Madrid. Looks like title race will go down the wire and to keep fighting until the end of the season Barcelona need to have a fit and refreshed squad. Although Tata Martino has been awesome in implementing his rotation policy to keep refilling the energy tanks of players to press and avoid burnouts which he learnt from last season but injuries have somewhat hindered that approach. With recurring injury to four times Ballon D’or winner missing 11 matches with other pillars of the team like Valdes and Alves having long term injury problems dint help rotation cause.

                ‘Midfielder’ Cec Fabregas had to fill in for Messi’s false nine role in most of the matches in which he did not look comfortable. The team sometimes suffered with Cesc not providing movements, both on and off the ball, which a centre forward would. Neymar was also tried in the false  9 role in which he was highly successful, scoring fastest hat trick for Barca against Celtic which helped the team secure top position in their Champion’s League group. But Tata in press conference said that he prefers the brasilian star playing on left wing. With Cesc most likely to start as false 9 even after the break till Messi returns, lack of centre forward remains an issue.

             Barca needing a centre back isnt a new thing at all. There have been a lot of talks in the past as to who will be an ideal centre back. But does Barcelona really need a centre back despite of having four of them with their captain Carles Puyol returning from injury? Also they have to keep in mind about La Masia and Barca B players too that cases like Sanabria only remain a rarity. Losing such gems would be tremendous loss hence every transfer made in winter or next summer will have to be done looking at both long and short terms needs of the club.

        Here are some issues FC Barcelona would need to address come January transfer window with their tactics as well as transfers to compete in all three competitions as they reach their business end well as keep their rotation policy moving forward to give minutes to all players and keep their starters refreshed and avoid being overworked.

1)      Goalkeepers:

           With one the pillars of Barcelona’s success Victor Valdes not renewing, Barca need to find a ‘fitting’ replacement for him. The decision on Pinto's extension is still kept pending. 

Ter Stegan could join in summer 

       Borussia Mönchengladbach keeper  Ter Stegan is the name which is most probable of joining but do they need him in winter window,with Valdes available? Also former La Masia graduate Pepe Reina is closely linked with Catalan giants now that his Liverpool career looks shoddy .Well; Valdes has recovered from calf injury and was back for clash against Elche. Getting a keeper will be a priority but during the summer transfer window because both Valdes and Pinto available for next half of the season.

2)      Defense

         Much has been said about Barca’s weak defense and not good enough pairing of Gerard Pique and Defensive midfielder converted to centre back Javier Mascherano. Their most successful captain Carles Puyol does not have the pace any more to hold quick forwards and he must be scantily used as well because of his injury prone background. Although their La Masia bred Marc Bartra has shown immense potential to lead the defensive line but with only 2 specialised centre backs, one cdm playing centre back and one injury prone centre back, they cannot challenge for Champions league title and to fight for La Liga is also going to be tough as well. I think Barcelona should shift Mascherano back to his original position (he played there for some last minutes against Getafe indicating that) and buy a centre back. That way they would have 4 specialized CBs with Pique and new CB as first choices. Although Bartra’s performances have indirectly forced Pique to improve a lot this season but still he should be kept on his toes so that he does not take his place for granted. Tata counts on Bartra too as he recently signed a new 3 year contract on his 23rd Birthday. 

Whoscored.com

          Every club knows that Barca are desperate for a centre back hence buying a quality centre back is not going to be easy. Luiz is constantly linked by spanish as well as english sources I would go for Liverpool’s out of favour centre back Daniel Agger!!!

Barca tracking both out of favour Centre backs at their respective clubs

 He would come cheap cause he was out of favour for the first half of the season, experienced, isn't cup tied and 29. Yes I purposely highlighted his age because this gives him 4-5 years maximum at Barca and hope for La Masia players like Bagnack, Edgar Le and Gomez to make it into the first team won’t be lost while buying a quality young centre back will mean Barca do not have confidence in these seriously talented young centre backs graduating through their ranks.

3)      Midfielders:

       I mentioned shifting Masch back to his favoured defensive midfield position as Sergio Busquets’ deputy would allow Barca to rest Busquets as well as have an excellent backup in case of injury to the later. Also a double pivot, which Tata doesn’t hesitate to use, of Masch as destroyer and Busquets playing a Deep laying playmaker’s role would fit in well.

Mascherano should again play at his favoured defensive midfield position

        Next, Xavi needs to be used wisely by Tata. He isn’t getting younger by any means and soon Barca will lookout for his successor but for now having Xavi, Cesc, Iniesta, youngster Sergi Roberto for 2 positions and Busquets-Masch for Defensive midfield position would be enough until Xavi’s replacement is decided. 

        As for Song is concerned, honestly, he dint fit the bill then and he doesn't fit the bill now. Ideally he should be  sold. Another versatile youngster Rafinha on loan at Celta is doing an excellent job under Enrique and would be excellent addition next season for the long run.  

Song has failed to make an impact during his stay at Barca

4)      Forwards:

         With world’s best player Messi missing half of the games before winter break caused Cesc to take the false 9 role with occasionally Neymar playing through the middle as well.  This affected the team in 2 ways. The rotation in Midfield was hindered as now Xavi and Iniesta had to start most of the games with Sergi Roberto not ready to play tough fixtures. Secondly, Cesc is too slow on the ball and poor with his back in front of goal. Lack of movements by forwards with Cesc as false 9 was clearly noticed when Barca played a front line of Pedro-Neymar- Alexis.The attacking fluency increased many folds. Also Cesc’s profiency as an attacking midfielder would also be missed.  So what if (God forbid) Messi again? 

          Buy a Centre Forward!!! With the Centre Forward coming in, buses would be easily unlocked as both Messi and Neymar would get lots of space in tight and organized defenses to do their business. The famous Milan comeback of last season proved what a true 9 with Messi and now Neymar too can do.

                  

Addition of striker like Klose would help Martino's cause immensely

     I would go for Miroslav Klose. Purely cause he would come for cheap, is a prolific goalscorer and having doubts over renewing with Lazio. As he is one of the best headers of the ball, the prospect of witnessing Alves’, Alba’s, Alexis’ or Neymar’s crossing having end products more often would be great against stern defenses. Also considering his age he would be a quick fix to tackle current issues as well as keep hopes for talented upcoming starlets like Dongou, Adama Traore, Sandro and Sanabria (if miraculously he decides to stay). While stars like Sergio Aguero and Rooney being linked to Barca. But Messi would still want to enjoy his centre forward position most of the times and playing strikers mentioned above as winger  or keeping them on bench wont do justice to there abilities. Buying Klose would prove useful as he doesn't need to play all matches and wont mind bench time. He would be needed as substitute in most of the matches, when Messi is injured or rested. That would help keep him fit at his age and also give him playing time as well.   

5)       Clearings:

The fate of Cuenca and  Afellay needs to be decided this winter as they continue their struggles with injuries. While Cuenca already getting green light he doesn't seem to be in future plans of Martino. Afellay is still recovering from thigh and hamstring problems after being operated for same. Both Should be loaned this winter depending upon their fitness. Cuenca especially should be loaned to a liga club. Honestly their time at Barca is done as far as current scenario is concerned.         

Injuries hampered what could've been a successful career

        Also JDS is out for long term with ACL tear and could leave in summer once he gets fit.

Unlucky to be injured at wrong time of his career

       Although I would personally love to keep Cuenca but Tata not playing him in second leg of Copa del rey match against Cartagena which was almost over in the first leg itself showed he will be loaned or sold. But with the skillset and trickery of his, he would've added a complete different dimension to the attack.

Out of favour cause of one after long term another injury 

The Verdict for January Transfer window

In- Agger, Klose and Masch to be shifted back to Cdm

Out- Song, Cuenca (on loan) and Afellay (if he recovers)

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Tito Vilanova - The Silent Centurion !

The news of Tito Vilanova stepping down as FC Barcelona's head coach because of a relapse for a second time has shocked the footballing world. The news that started on twitter and spread via  various sources, was later confirmed by club president Sandro Rosell and Director Zubizarreta in a press conference. In the wake o the event, Barcelona have cancelled the friendly scheduled on 20th july.

A small tribute to the man  who lead us to a historic century of points, our silent centurion !

For every Catalan boy, it is always a dream to don the famous Blaugrana kit, so had a boy named Francesc 'Tito' Vilanova. Vilanova, a graduate from the famous youth academy "la masia", although never made his mark as a player, 18 years after would make his mark on the club's history forever, along with his long time friend and colleague Pep Guardiola. Vilanova's return to Barcelona as Pep's assistant had been absolutely vital in the rebuilding the team from scratches and take it to the glory once again, which would later be   referred to as "One of the greatest teams of all times" by most. People keep praising Guardiola for the masterstroke of "false9" with Leo Messi that took world by storm, but what very few people know that it was actually Vilanova who suggested it. A genius, truly ! A very calm figure, much contrast to the aggressive guardiola, Tito was a figure known, but still unknown for most.

After Guardiola decided to step down as manager, fans across the globe were busy, discussing the future manager, from Bielsa to Siemone and from Wenger to AVB. Almost nobody could have imagined at that time about vilanova, except for the very few. It was in a way a surprise, but a pleasant one when Vilanova was appointed as head coach. Although it was huge task to fill the shoes left vacent by the most successful coach in the club's history, since Tito was with the team for over 4 years, he knew the system inside out that he himself had worked hard to establish, he got support and trust from players and fans throughout the world.



The pre-season worked out very well and fans were hoping for a good season ahead. Even though Barcelona lost the Spanish Supercup to Real Madrid  on away goals rule, team's brilliant football over two legs was much appreciated, especially after the red card to Adriano at Santiago Bernabau.  Fans felt that Tito was the right man for the job. But no one, not even the coach or players would have thought what happened as the season begun and progressed.



A rejuvenated barcelona would rip apart most of teams, and showing the grit and determination to snatch the points out of nowhere only to keep breaking the all time liga records. Much opposite to Guardiola, Vilanova would be a very calm and composed personality, standing in the technical area, speaking rarely. But a genius thinker, he would make some minor changes which would give huge benifits

The Tactician

Vilanova introduced a bit of the  directness into buildups, a move that surprised even the fans but was highly successful.  The reduction in unneeded side-ward passing and more attacking football became as entertaining as successful that it virtually sealed LaLiga title in mere 16 weeks after Mourinho's Madrid had few slip ups and no team could cope up with rampant Barca.
           

Another achievement of Vilanova was getting Fabregas to his old self. Upon his return to his boyhood club, Cesc wasn't as impressive as he would have liked. He had become a shadow of his old self. But vvilanova made tactical changes and gave him a role that suited him well. His on field chemistry and understanding with Lionel Messi would become almost impossible to stop and by the end of first half of season, Fabregas would be Barcelona's second best player of the campaign, only behind messi and and re-establish him once again as one of the best !

Although the draw, the el classico would once again test Vilanova's abilities to handle tough situations as he had his 3 first choice defenders ruled out for the game. Despite playing with makeshift defense, and Real Madrid in great scoring form, having previously scored more than 3 goals in their last 3 games, could not manage a win. Thus, After first 20 Liga games, Barcelona would still be unbeaten with 19 wins and 1 draw, a new league record !

Just when it seemed things are going pretty smooth and Barca could now shift the focus entirely on Champions League after virtually claiming the title in January itself, the biggest blow would come as Vilanova had a relapse and had to be shifted to New York for the treatment. That would be proved as a huge setback, as Barcelona had a sudden and sharp decline in form, resulting from the poor moral because of Tito's departure and inefficient squad management by assistant coach Roura. They lost three of the most important games of the season within  just a week, putting entire campaign in jeopardy. Two El Classicos, one that would eliminate them from Spanish Cup,  and the painful 2-0 loss at San Siro to AC Milan. That week, once again underlined the importance of Vilanova for the team as the team looked continuously declining, less energetic and tactically average.

Upon his return, the team had a rise in form but struggled against PSG and later, humiliated by bayern. Vilanova came  under fire and drew criticism from various sections. Still as calm as always, he continued his work and lead Barca to a record 100 points. Just a season ago, when Jose Mourinho had claimed that his 100 point record would take a very long time to be broken, Vilanova took just a year to match it !

Just when things were going as planned, with signing of Neymar to bolster the attack and continued search for a defender, Barcelona would face possibly the biggest blow of all. on July 19th, Vilanova was diagnosed with another relapse and it would become impossible for him to continue. President Rosell and Director Andoni Zubizarreta immediately announced a presser, for the official announcement about Tito stepping down.

Rosell: "Tito Vilanova will continue treatment of his illness, he will not be able to continue as FC Barcelona's head manager."

It was indeed a very difficult and emotional moment for every player, staff and fan, watching the presser live. everyone knew that this was gonna be the last of Tito Vilanova as FC Barcelona's Head coach. Everyone waited eagerly for what Tito himself had to say.




An open letter by Vilanova published on the official website of FC Barcelona reads-

"Thank you Barca; thank you everyone.It is not easy to leave this very special group of players, fellow staff and friends with whom I shared many memorable experiences. I'll be eternally grateful for everything you have given to me and I have shown. After five wonderful years as part of a team that has made dreams come true as a coach, the time has come to face a change in my professional life and to devote forces to continue the process of the disease that I was diagnosed a year and a half ago." Dignified, as always !

The news cause a global disturbance as numerous players, managers and clubs issued official statemnts wishing Vilanova a speedy recovery. It is very difficult moment for all who are associated with Barcelona and even more so for Vilanova and his family. But dont worry Tito, u have defeated the cancer twice, now a time for hat-trick! Millions are praying for you good health across the world. You have to win this game Tito, you will win !

Some selection of messages of support to Tito:

Leo Messi - "Strength Tito! We are all with you in this fight!"

Chelse FC: "Jose Mourinho, his coaching staff and the Chelsea players also all send their best wishes to Tito Vilanova for his fast recovery"


Andres Iniesta - "Tito will once again win this terrible battle facing him. On behalf of the players and everyone, I send him all my love and support. At the end of the day, this is about a person, not a coach."


Pepe Reina - "Football is equally fleeting in its victories and defeats. All my support for Tito Vilanova and his family! Support! You are going to win this game!"


Puaul Gasol(NBA)- "The first and most important thing in life is health. My best wishes to Tito Vilanova in this difficult moment. #animsTito #GetWellSoon".


Pep Guardiola- "It is very diffcult for me to talk about this subject in German. (Vilanova) is a close friend of mine and I love him very much,I can only wish him and his family the best as they confront this difficult moment with strength. This is very, very tough for me


Real Madrid CF- Real Madrid CF want to express their support for and solidarity with Tito Vilanova and also to his family, friends and FC Barcelona.

Thiago Alcantara- “All the encouragement in the world for Tito and his family. We are all with you!!”

Tito Over the years.................

                                                                            

   

Adios Tito !

Goodbye Tito. But while leaving, you should know, that your name will be taken with utmost respect and love and you have a place of your own  in the club's glittering history !
Anims Tito !
Anims the silent centurion !

English Premier League Team of the Season 2012 - 2013

There was no rocket science in guessing the Premier League champions going into the last two months of premier league, as oppose to last season where Manchester City won the title in a thrilling fashion with the help on Kun Aguero’s 93^rd min strike. Well, this season Manchester United learnt their lesson and wrapped up the title as fast as they could with displaying thrilling comebacks and showing consistency throughout the season while their rival neighbours, Manchester City, slipped up during crucial times.I am not disparaging United’s efforts by any means. Chelsea did not take advantage of their good start to the premier league campaign. Congratulations to Manchester United on winning their 20^th Premier league title. While United were aiming at taking back what was there’s from City, Tottenham were looking to book a Champions League Qualification berth. They stayed at 4^th place during most part of their campaign only to yet again get pipped by Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal, who won the thrilling 4^th place race. There were some outstanding and consistent performing players who played at their best to lead their team to glory. Here’s my take on EPL Team of the Season.

PS:- This team is selected only on the basis of their EPL performances irrespective of how well others performed in UCL, Europa league, COC cup or FA cup.

Formation- According to players selected and their roles for their respective teams, an unorthodox 4-1-3-2 formation is selected.

Goalkeeper

There have been some excellent goalkeeping displays throughout the season. De Gea pulled off some fabulous saves, Cech showed his masterclass and Stoke City’s Begovic who forced several clubs to take notice with his awesome saves.

De Gea was key to United’s premier league success this season. It’s been a remarkable turnaround for the 22-year-old Spanish goalkeeper. Having a mixed season in 2011-2012 he drew many critics for his over-reliance on the use of his feet as well as his poor ability in the air. It was only until this season that he began to show the potential he quite clearly has. Notching up 10 Clean Sheets since January, he has also shown much better and consistent performance in the air as well as overall. Pulling off crucial saves in crucial games, most notably the Manchester Derby, his rise to prominence has just begun. Thus granting him his inclusion.

Right Back-

Kyle Walker was a workhorse running continuous running forward with his overlaps and tracking back efficiently to defend. Rafael is very underrated right back in premier league. His brilliance kept his wing quiet defensively but was prone to silly mistakes at times. Special Mention to Swansea's Rangel. City's key players failed to deliver this season but there was one man who kept on giving out his heart on field, Pablo Zabaleta. A leader on the field he provides an attacking threat, notching seven goals this season. More importantly his defensive performances have been brilliant. He displays great tenacity and work ethic and is, in my opinion, the best positional wing back in the league. Thus he gets the nod.

Central Defense

Conceding goals was major problem for top teams in Premier league this season. Though teams leaked goals, there were some good performances as far as central defense is concerned. With Rio Ferdinand coming into his own at the right time for Champions, Kompany, though not at his last season’s best was effective at centreback. Chelsea’s pair Luiz and Ivanovic had a decent season too. Phil Jagielka was behind Everton’s magnificent displays. Nastasic was superb for his age.

But Tottenham’s Jan Vertoghen and United’s Rio Ferdinand win the spot for centre back position. Jan has shown a great ability going forward, scoring some spectacular goals and developing a decent partnership with Gareth Bale. But more importantly he has shown himself to be a leader on the pitch and is constantly shuffling his defence pushing them forward. The Tottenham Hotspur defender was surely Andre Villas Boas' signing of the season. He was equally commanding on the left flank of the Tottenham defence. He was one of the main reason to help Spurs finish fifth in the EPL this season.

The 34-year-old’s return to form defied critics who claimed he no longer had the pace to play at the highest level. The centre-back may have snubbed an England recall but he was an assured presence as United romped to the title. With Captain Nemanja Vidic missing much of the campaign through injury, Rio stepped up to the plate when his team needed him most.

Left Back

This position has hands down winner in Leighton Baines. Much like Jagielka, Leighton Baines has led the way in Everton's push for European qualification. He has notched up five goals as well as five assists. He has also shown an improvement in his tactical awareness, knowing when not to go forward which is up there with the hardest skills to learn. As well as this, he has a wand of a left foot delivering devastating set pieces thus warranting a place. Reasons are still unknown as to why still he is not preferred as England’s usual starter.

Central Midfield

Michael Carrick’s name comes first to mind when you talk about central midfield. His high accuracy rate of passing, ability to read the game and setting up attacks from the back were his major contributions. He has been the main man pulling strings in midfield. He has defied age to be one of the most consistent player of the season. His constant movement and ability to intercept passes have been good too.

Right attacking-midfield

There were many right attacking midfielders who were performing awesome during the season namely Spaniards Juan Mata and David Silva. But Juan Mata, with his brilliant attacking displays in my opinion edges everyone to this position. Having added goals to his game, he has been brilliant on the ball and has a range of passing with vision to boot. More importantly he is beginning to show his class by affecting games, most recently his late strike against United in their 1-0 defeat by Chelsea.

Centre attacking-midfield

Players like Steven Gerrard, Santi Cazorla, Oscar, Fellaini have been very effective in this position. My vote will go to Santi Cazorla. With his magic wand he has led Arsenal to 4th place thus beating their north London rivals Tottenham to Champions League Qualification. Scoring 12 goals with seven assists Cazorla has been the stand out player for Arsenal performing both exceptionally and consistently. Although not recognised by the PFA Team of the Year, his ability on the ball is outstanding and he has the ability to score a goal out of nothing. The former Malaga man was played on wings in some matches but still proved his worth and is more effective centrally.

Left attacking midfield

Like Baines in his position, this player has no rival for his place. Outstanding performances throughout the season, scoring blinders match after match and also setting up goals for teammates as well, Gareth Bale had his best season so far. Outpacing every player there is and finishing clinically has won him both PFA Player of the season and Young Player of the season. He led Tottenham’s bid for Champions League qualification and nearly achieved it.

Striker

Goals were raining in premier league this season. Strikers Robin Van Persie, Luiz Suarez, Benteke, Lukaku and attacking midfielder converted striker Michu were on song last season. But these picks are obvious, aint it?

Love him or hate him but you just cannot neglect his wonderful performances throughout the season. Luis Suarez, the controversial Liverpool forward, scored some outstanding solo goals. Beating and nutmegging defenders at will, he is instinctively brilliant. Having scored 23 goals last season, controversies and lack of support has stunted his growth a player but has potential to be the best in Premier league.

Like Suarez (not literally), man who was hated by fans of his former club, joined United to help them regain the Title, Robin Van persie completes the team of the season. Joining  from their league rival, the former Arsenal man was an instant hit at United scoring lots of goals leading the team to win back premier league. One of the most gifted players and clinical are obvious words to describe him. Thus his inclusion makes this team a team to beat with hard workers and players with individual brilliance in there.

Manager of the Season

With Michael Laudrup leading Swansea to COC Cup with performing equally good in Premier league as well . Wenger defied odds to make Arsenal qualify for 4th place. Mancini failing to deliver and Moyes finishing above rivals Liverpool. This season has seen it all but also seen the past again with Sir Alex Ferguson managing to re-capture lost glory. Before announcing his retirement at the end of the season, he successfully led United to well-deserved title. Those thrilling comebacks were result of him providing that mentality to players to fightback. His presence at the touchline will really be missed by United and Premier league equally.

Signing of the Season

Michu was bought for just 2m by Laudrup and with Laudrup’s tactical genius michu won heart of many premier league fans. Scoring 18 goals and 2 assists, he has been the bargain of the season.

Team of the Season

Secondary Team- Players who almost made  it to the team

La Liga Team of the Season 2012 - 2013 and Top Players and Managers Review

First things first,

Congrats to FC Barcelona for winning La Liga that too with a record point difference to the next finisher Real Madrid.

I would like to make it clear now itself that The Team below has been selected only based on the performance in Spain (European competitions excluded to put in some parity) and rarely considering statistics or table position. And the formation that has been selected is 4-4-2, which is not so amazingly the least followed variant in the Spanish region, ie 2 full backs, 2 centre backs, 2 CMs, 1 LM, 1 RM and 2 forwards. (This fomation has been considered only for comfortability to choose players from major 'positions' that are common).

And usually the routine undermining of players other than Barca and Real Madrid will not be of any worry, since the players have been selected only by their individual performances, than the team's glory. (I have also added in few stats for people who doubt or doesnt know about the players).

So don't be surprised, if you are surprised.

Goal Keeper 

The top contestants for this position would be Atletico's Thibaut Courtois, Malaga's Willy Caballero and Osasuna's Andres Fernandez. The omission of Victor Valdes and Iker Casillas maynot be surprising, but Diego Lopez might have just made a mark. He has been pretty awesome in his real madrid outfit, but was not even a shadow of his current form at Sevilla, having only 2 clean sheets in his 8 apps and allowed some cheap goals that could have been saved in the process.

Courtois is the main reason for Atletico being the best team in defense in La Liga. His saves against Madrid in CDR final are noteworthy. Sameway Caballero has put up an impressive performance, especially in the Champions League, but at times had been inconsistent as well in Liga. Andres has been the main reason for Osasuna not getting relegated. Despite poor defending by CBs, he has been saving Osasuna from an embarrassing exit from Primera.

Courtois has been so consistent and no wonder holds the most clean sheets and been a pillar for Simeone's current success. Hence the Zamora winner wins it over the other 2 keepers..

Central Defenders

If Courtois has been a wall between the goals, Godin and Miranda had given everything to ensure that the opponent's attacking threat is cut down incredibly. If the duo of Atleti had been awesome throughout the season, Malaga's Demechelis and Welligton had been brilliant in their own way.

Hector Moreno had been a pillar for Espanyol's awesome comeback up the league table from relegation zone and a beast who can create chance for his team as well. His last ditch tackles are probably the best in Europe currently.

Ramos has been consistent throughout the season for Madrid. And the young Inigo Martinez is ready to show the world that he will be the best defender in the coming seasons by putting in jaw-dropping tackles.
So deciding on just 2 CBs  would be extremely difficult, but as it calls for, I feel the brilliance of Moreno and Godin has just edged others this season.

Right Back

Andoni Iraola is probably the most underrated full back in the last decade, since he is not playing in either Real Madrid or Barcelona. His passing success rate is consistently over 80% this season and his long balls often cause havoc for the opponents and has a 70% success rate in tackles (Stats are only for those who don't know about him or never heard of him before). The best player in Bilbao squad this season, the best in his position once again this season, he edges over the likes of his closest rivals in that position this year, Sevilla's Cicinho and Atletico's Juanfran.

Juanfran had been very much vital to Atletico's success. Though slightly inconsistent when it came to big games, he bettered everyone in the CDR finals. Remember his open goal save? Whereas Sevilla's Cicinho has been the most dependable of their club's backline, also involving in attacks consistently. If not for these three, Malaga's Jesus Gamez would have taken the plaudits ahead of Sociedad's Carlos Martinez and  Barcelona's Dani Alves.

Left Back

I must say, If Malaga's Nacho Monreal had stayed and continued with his terrific form, he would have won this spot hands down. His colleague Eliseu interchanging his positions between LM and LB has been way too impressive as well. 

Jordi Alba's impressive runs and an improved defending attributes after Christmas was astounding. The Barca's new signee has been one of the most consistent and committed full backs in the world currently. 

Valencia's Guardado, though his original position being in the LM, did a fairly convincing job as a LB. 

But the best Left Back this season is Sociedad's Alberto De La Bella. He is probably the most inspiring defender this season. (For those who have not seen him, he has over 80% successful passing rate, one of the best tacklers in the world and his clearances and timing are way above most defenders in Europe. Besides this, he also makes key passes every game and involve in attack by teaming up with Greizmann or Agirettxe). In the whole season, he has made just one avoidable defensive error which unfortunately resulted in a goal. Despite that black mark, he has been consistent and lead his team to the final UCL spot ahead of Valencia. Hence it would only be fitting he is chosen for this spot ahead of Jordi Alba and others.

Central Midfield - DEF

Maybe the problem with some of the teams like Levante or Granada is that a talent (not just in CDM) may not be identified right away like at Barcelona or Malaga or Madrid, because they don't actually have a 'clearly defined' tactics and formation, which leads to underutilisation of players' calibre.

There are probably 7-10 best CDMs in the world who had played in La Liga this season. Anyways, on what was apparent this season, Roberto Trashorras is probably the best boon Rayo Vallecano or for that matter any club could ask for in this position. He not only contributed in defending (having almost 84% success rate in tackles), he has made more accurate accurate long balls in La Liga and more key passes than any in his position. The only weakness he probably needs to work on is his aerial duels, which others happen to get better of him. Having said that, except Rayo's front line plays, they intend to go for possession based attacking (they have the best possessional stats only next to Barcelona). He probably has the passing rate and possession rate more than most Barcelona players. And even more importantly he has not committed any open defensive error throughout the season, unlike his colleague Fuega who is quite error-prone and  probably has more name among all his teammates. Oh! The Irony!

Sergio Busquets would probably be owning this position for the past 4 years. But the unfortunate over-usage of such a player has taken toll on his performances in the tail end of the Liga games, which probably gave slight edge for the fellow Spaniard to gain the position.

Jose Canas of Betis, who will be moving to EPL this summer is next in the list. Even when the free flowing Benat has not been living upto his status in some games, Canas on the other hand had been solid throughout the season and was the main man behind Betis' amazing run this season, ending up with an Europa League Position. Though he was not involved much in the attacking respect from Central Midfield, which was down to Benat, he had been an iron wall to beat up by any opposition. With him joining EPL, La Liga has lost one of the gems of CDM in today's footballing world.

Sociedad's 23 year old Genius, Aiser Illaramendi needs a mention. His reading of the game has been awesome, add to that the gift of control and passing. He is probably the typical Central Midfielder (not CDM, a CM) any top club would be scouting for.

Central Midfield - ATT

In the CAM position, the top 7 contenders are Andres Iniesta, Mesut Ozil, Koke, Rakitic, Joan Verdu, Ever Banega and Benat.

There is probably no introduction or explanation that needs to be put up for the first two. Koke has been as much dynamic as Falcao for Atletico Madrid the whole season. Though just 21 years of age, he probably owned the midifeld attacking on most occassions. Putting up such matured displays every week has  gained him attention throughout the world. With UCL campaign next season, one can only expect bigger things things from him next season.

Rakitic has been performing as brilliant as always, involving in every attack and in the process giving in more key passes, bagging in goals and assists. A total package CAM for Sevilla, if not for 'Sitters-missing' Negredo he would have topped the stats list as well. Joan Verdu was the main source drawn to inpire the Espanyol's comeback under Aguirre alongside already selected Moreno. Teeing up and inpiring his teammates with his key passes, he also scored many crucial goals en-route to the mid-table finish from the bottom.

Valencia's Ever Banega too has had a great season. Against top clubs he stood out tall even when his colleagues failed to deliver, especially the Copa Del Rey Legs against Real Madrid. Despite that, he failed to perform when it mattered the most on some occassions. He, not only helped tghe team to gel in attacks, but also has a very good defensive rate as well.

Betis' Benat has been scouted by many clubs around the world for the last 2 seasons. "Brilliance at its best" is what he is known to be when in full form. This season had been a roller coaster ride in his performance, but nevertheless whenever he found rhythm, it was way too hard to stop him.

Ozil's contribution in Madrid's second place finish is as good and effective as Cristiano Ronaldo's energetic displays. But when it mattered the most, it was "Don Iniesta" who stood up for Barcelona alongside Lionel Messi in finishing La Liga at the top with record points. Throughout the season he has been the most consistent and effective player for Barcelona, after Lionel Messi. Even during Messi's injury in the tail-end of Liga, Iniesta ensured Barca's prolific run by teeing up with other forwards like Villa, Sanchez and even Cesc Fabregas. On the whole, he not only owns this position currently, but is a strong contender for Balon D'or once again this year.



























Right Wing

One more Master will be leaving to EPL from La Liga this summer. Once again another money-rich clubs had stolen away a gem from Spain. Jesus Navas will be leaving to Manchester City. But no wonder he is leaving, because he deserves Champions League football and City needs a champion like him to go beyond their poor accomplishments at the European Level. There are probably very few players in the world who can compete with him for his position. A brilliant dribbler, passer, crosser and what not. There can be no doubt, it will take years to find another player like him in La Liga.

 Having said this, there are equally brilliant contestants in Malaga's Joaquin, Athletic Bilbao's Susaeta, Sociedad's Prieto, and Atletico's Costa.

When we see the contribution and effectiveness among the list, there is no doubt Pedro Leon and Susaeta are the closest contenders for Navas. Despite having many under-performing players in the team, he literally took his side out of any possible danger alongside Iraola and Adruiz. Leon on the other hand ensured Getafe's top half finish with his sublime crossing and dribblings, which might ensure that he might head back to Real Madrid this summer, depending on club's requirement and player's wish.

Joaquin will be moving out to Fiorentina this summer. I must say he was probably the best signing in Malaga's history. Not only in Spain, but in the European level he stood heads above others and trolled every defender who came on his way, before setting up a genius-pass or taking a well-aimed shot.

Xabi Prieto - More known for his brilliant brace against real Madrid and his synch with Vela has been on a high note this season. Forming part of the fantastic 5 of Sociedad's attack, one can easily say he has over-performed by miles than what was expected of him at the start of the season from the 29 year old Spaniard, by scoring 9 goals and created over 60 chances for his team mates.
Nonetheless, there is no doubt Jesus Navas would probably be the choice of everyone in this respect.



























Left Wing

One of the best shooters ever, one of the fastest athletes ever, such a hard working personality Cristiano is, there is not even the slightest of possibility that he would not make into the Team of the season. His goals is only second to Messi. Though not the typical Spanish LW, he is more of the English LW or to say LWF. Amassing a total of 34 Goals (6 Penalties) and 11 assists he stands a notch up above other players.

Isco is easily the best young talent in La Liga this season. Not only in Spain, he proved his worth against most European opponents this season. His versatility has drawn comparisons with Don Iniesta himself and most likely he will be able to live upto the expectations. He is probably one of the very few players in Liga this season to have dribbled past Madrid, Barcelona and more important Atletico's defense. Even at this young age, he is the most used player in Malaga squad and their top scorer and keyman as well. Though CAM is his favorite position, he has is more fond of dribbling down the left flanks and teeing up his teammates than only sticking upto his central roles. Infact he has started many such games on the left in Liga and performed incredibly, especially after Morales coming into Malaga.

Youngster Antoine Greizmann has been the one of the top reasons for Sociedad's UCL spot finish. Even when Vela or Agirettxe had been missing out the matches or slightly off-form, the young Frenchman has done enough to prove that he is among the top ten youngsters in the world already, involving in as much as 15 goals in La Liga this season. In the crucial game against Real Madrid at Anoeta, he was the main reason alongside Prieto to ensure that they got a point, which helped the Basque club to have a chance to go forward against Deportivo in the last Gameweek with a hope to finish above Valencia.

Sevilla's Jose Antonio Reyes is easily the best crosser of the ball in La Liga. At 29, he is probably the one of the most feared left flank attackers in the world. Though missing out Liga actions for 3-4 weeks initially, he settled in slowly and started weaving his magic week in week out. But as stated earlier, Cristiano Ronaldo is a notch up the stated players and unarguably the best in this position in La Liga.

Forwards

Lionel Messi - well, what to say about this guy? The 4 time Balon D'or winner is not just the best player in La Liga this season, but arguably among greatest of all times. He scored 21 games in a row this season, another record broken by the Little Argentine. If not for the injury, he would have broken his own record of 50 Liga goals in a season set by him last year. Every football fan would have analysed his statistics and stuff. So fortunately or unfortunately, I don't think it will be required as such to give in any reason to name him, "La Liga Player of the Season", once again, having notched up 46 goals (4 Penalties) and 12 Assists and winning the Pichchi Trophy and European Golden boot as a result.

The last position probably has some stiff competition. Radamel Falcao, Roberto Soldado, Agirettxe, Riki, Iago Aspas, Adruiz, Carlos Vela, Ruben Castro and probably Alvaro Negredo too for his impressive stats in scoring. Among the list of CFs, Falcao, Agirettxe, Castro and Soldado stand tall.

Negredo had missed enough sitters to see him out of the Spanish squad for the confederations cup. Iago Aspas had been totally brilliant that he is one of the sought after forwards by the EPL clubs having rescued Celta from relegation by a whisker. Agirettxe honestly deserves call from Spain NT for his selfless performance for Sociedad has been astounding throughout the season. Carlos Vela is in my opinion the best player of Sociedad. His timing, Shots, Assists, Passing, Teaming up has been on par with a world class forward this season.

Betis' Ruben Castro has been the sole consolation upfront to utilise the brilliance of Benat. Molina has been very much under-performing which made Castro take more responsibilty, which he obliged and made Betis reach the Europa League. With Llorente no longer the first choice, The Mastermind of Marcelo Bielsa had to depend on the strikes of Adruiz to help Bilbao reach a decent mid-table finish and the striker performed to his optimum level despite many other teammates falling short to put up any decent performance.

Though Riki has done enough to leave a Legendary status among the Deportivo fans forever, he unfortunately couldnot rescue them from relegation this season. Probably one of the most underrated strikers of the last decade, he has now left the Once Great Club after seven brilliant seasons.

Despite such big names, Falcao and Soldado have been the most reliable and astounding strikers this season. To pick one among these two is extremely difficult as such. One hand, Soldado after his brilliant performances and scoring-spree has got a call up for the Spanish NT. Falcao on the other hand has probably made one of the biggest ever transfers in football after putting up an awe-inspiring performance for Atletico Madrid this season once again. So, on consistency basis - Falcao just edges Soldado, since the latter found hard time in some gameweeks and put up a below par performance, esp in Copa Del Rey. Thus The Beast Falcao has made the La Liga Team of The Season amongst other stalwarts.
























Manager of The Season

Barcelona's Tito Vilanova has done enough in the first half of the season to ensure a brilliant and victorious campaign, before his unfortunate illness forced him to take off from overlooking the squad.

Jose Mourinho, after winning La Liga last season failed to live upto the expectations of the Madridistas.

Javier Aguirre, tough came in as a replacement at Espanyol has been extremely tactful to save Espanyol from relegation zone and take them to a Mid-Table Finish.

Diego Simeone almost took the brilliant and hardworking Atletico Madrid ahead of their city rivals, but the inconsistency towards the end and his not changing the formation or tactics and the lack of rotation, made them yet again to finish below Real Madrid. Nevertheless his smart work did pay off with a Cope Del Rey Title, that too against their very own city rivals.

Manuel Pellgrini is the next manager after Mourinho, who is likely to end up in EPL. His brilliance in Champions League and almost going past the Runners-up Dortmund has been a fairytale story. But because of the European concentration, Malaga's performance in La Liga was significantly affected. Having had to manage the club with the departures of its top 2 players last summer, Pellegrini did whatever he could to ensure an European spot for the club.

Pepe Mel, now rumored to takeover the brilliant Sociedad, has proved himself to be a Master Tactician, having had to rely upon very handful of players and ensured an European finish.

But taking up an almost unexpected squad to a Champions League finish is more than amazing job. 48 year old Philippe Montanier may unfortunately not manage the squad next season. But managing just a 22 man squad with a limited budget, but ensuring that he finish above the likes of rivals Bilbao, the Great Valencia and the European contender Malaga is no mean feat. Hence, in my opinion Montanier has been the best manager in La Liga this season over Simeone, Vilanova and Pellegrini.

Signing of The Season

The top 3 signings in La Liga last summer were Sevilla's Kondogbia, Barcelona's Jordi Alba, and Sociedad's Carlos Vela.

Kondogbia is among the best young talents in Europe. Vela and Alba's prowess has already been explained above.

In my opinion, being the best player of a Champions League teamand having performed consistently above par throughout the season, Carlos Vela deserves the tag over other signings.

LA LIGA TEAM OF THE SEASON 2012 - 2013 - OVERVIEW

LA LIGA XI OF THE SEASON 2012-13

PLAYERS WHO ALMOST MADE IT TO THE LA LIGA XI

PLAYERS WHO ALMOST MADE IT TO LA LIGA XI