[FM17] The Maple and the Eagle

[bigmattb28]

Chapter 46​

The award sat on Scotts desk, gleaming under the lights in the small office. Manager of the month for August 2019. Five wins from six and a dream start to the new season. Ślęza Wrocław were flying.

But Scott wasn’t the type to bask in accolades, not when there was bad news to deliver.

The dressing room was still buzzing from the latest victory, 2-0 away at ROW Rybnik when Scott stepped inside, his expression dimming the mood.

‘Alright, listen up boys’ he said, folding his arms ‘we’ve got a problem, Kakou’s out with a broken foot. Four months at least’

The room went silent. Kakou had been solid at right back and had filled in across the back line, his versatility a major asset. Leândro shook his head ’that’s a tough one’

‘It is’ Scott said and continued with ‘but we all know that’s what happens in the game and it’s how we react that matters. We’re seventh in the league, you’re playing well, that’s why I got the award, but there’s no excuses and we keep going on like we have’

They followed up the league wins with another in the cup, 2-1 away at Polonia Warsawa which only strengthened the teams resolve and belief. They weren’t just showing they were here to survive in the league, but they were here to compete in the cup as well.

Come the end of September they had seventeen points from ten league games, meaning they sat respectably in seventh, exceeding everyone's expectations.

But not everyone in the league was thriving.

Roughly sixty miles away in Opole, the league favourites Odra had seen things falling apart at the seams. Despite boasting the two best players in the league, forward Antkowiak with his 7 goals and right back *** central midfielder Matty Cash, they’d had a string of poor results and the manager was gone. And suddenly Scott’s phone wouldn’t stop going off.

The rumor mill was relentless. Whilst not the media favourite for the job there was still plenty of interest from reporters contacting the club and Scott for comments. One paper in Wrocław lead with the headline ‘Lańkowski Top of Odra Opole Shortlist’, and Sport Poland ran a piece titled ‘Lańkowski to Opole? Promotion Project Awaits for the up and coming manager’

Scott paid no attention to the rumors. His dad had told him enough times that success attracts attention. Marcin had walked into the office and said ‘seen you’re leaving us’ with a smile.

Scott laughed and said ‘shut up you, I’m not interested’

‘Good but they’ll probably keep asking for a quote’

‘Then let’s give them one’

At training later that morning there was a couple of straggling reporters hovering outside the ground, waiting, anticipating. Scott made the first move and walked over and before they could evena sk the question Scott spoke ‘let me clear, I’m the manager here, in Wrocław and I’m staying the manage of Ślęza’

One young journo asked ‘you’re not even tempted by the favourites for the league title then?’

‘Tempted is a strange word isn’t it. But no, I’m not interested in the job I’ve got a job here and we’re not finished yet’

As the players filed out fo the ground they’d been told by the boss himself that he wasn’t going anywhere.

Before the match against Stal Mielec, Scott spotted a familiar figure during warm-ups. Mateusz Michalski who had left at the start of last season

He had been part of Ślęza’s promotion team last season only to be sold for €20,000. Now, he was at a club expected to challenge for promotion again. Scott approached him with a grin.

‘Didn’t expect to see you back in this league so soon’ he said with a handshake

Michalski smirked ‘didn’t expect you to still be here, either boss’

Scott laughed ‘we’re both full of surprises’

‘No hard feelings?’ Michalski asked.

‘None at all’ Scott said, surprised Michalski even said it ‘you wanted to move up, I get it. But let’s see how much you’ve really moved up’

The match itself was a battle.

Mielec dominated early, forcing Wellington into two key saves. But Ślęza held firm, and in the 87th minute, a deflected shot flew into the bottom corner to give them the lead.

Mielec hit back minutes later from the spot. Kluzek pushed the forward in the box, a stupid mistake really. But the game finished 1-1, a hard earned point on the road.

Days later, Ślęza traveled to Chojniczanka and tore them apart.

A 5-0 demolition. Ruthless, relentless, undeniable.

By the end of September, Ślęza Wrocław sat 4th in the table, on 17 points.

Scott could feel it now that this team wasn’t just here to survive. They were here to compete.

​

And the feeling around the club? Stronger than ever.

-- -- -- -- --​

 

[bigmattb28]

Chapter 47​

The morning after the resounding 5-0 win over Chojniczanka Scott Lańkowski arrived at the Ślęza Wrocław office feeling the kind of satisfaction that only comes with success. The team was clicking, momentum was on their side and they had stormed into the top four. The club was buzzing.

But as soon as he stepped into the office, he could tell something was off. Peter Bastista sat beside him, arms crossed, and Marcin had that look, like he was about to drop something Scott wouldn’t like.

‘They’ve made it official’ Marcin said, opening his laptop to reveal an email

Scott frowned, looking at the screen. His eyes skimmed to the title bar and locked on the words:

Odra Opole requests permission to interview to Ślęza Wrocław manager Scott Lańkowski.

He exhaled sharply. He heard the rumors and had even been asked about them. But this? A formal offer. The club that had been promotion favorites before the season, now struggling, wanted him to fix their mess.

Peter was the first to speak ‘you don’t have to do anything with it. But this is a big deal. They’re a club with a bigger budget, bigger stadium, they’ve spent years in the top tier….'

‘I’m not interested’ Scott cut him off, shaking his head ‘not even for a second’

Marcin leaned forward ‘are you….’ Scott cut him off too

‘No’ firmer this time. He pushed the laptop back toward Marcin and looked him in the eyes ‘we’re building something here. We’re fourth in the league. Fourth, Marcin. It might last forever but I’m not, no, WE’RE not leaving now part way through the season’

Marcin said ‘I had a feeling you’d say that. Shall I reply with the rejection or do you want to tell them yourself?’

Scott leaned back and said ‘just tell them we’re focussed on progress here for now. Between us things might change but go with that for now’

And with that, the offical door to Odra Opole closed.

By the time the winter break arrived Ślęza Wrocław were still fourth in the table. The notion they’d be fighting relegation was a distant memory and the players had performed above expectations. Scott, Peter and Marcin were determined to keep the momentum going.

But as January rolled in, so did the offers.

Patryk Jez, the 19 year old midfielder from the youth team who had been steadily growing into one of the league’s most promising young talents, was suddenly at the center of a bidding war. Scouts from a handful of teams had been watching him for months, and now Fiorentina had made their move.

Marcin placed his laptop onto his desk ‘first bid rejected. Ninetyfive thousand euros’

Scott let out a low sigh ‘it’s a start’

‘I told them no and that he’s worth a lot more’ Marcin smirk ‘I said we want two hundred and fifty’

Scott raised an eyebrow ‘ambitious, very ambitious’

‘They came back at one eighty’

Silence hung between them for a moment. Scott then said ‘that’s... actually not bad’

Marcin nodded and said ‘it’s decent and all profit, but we’re going to need a replacement’

Scott leaned forward ‘get the scouts on it. I want someone lined up before we even think about finalizing this’

Marcin nodded and said he’d get the scouts out. Scott sat back, drumming his fingers against the desk. Another young talent heading for bigger things. Another name added to the growing list of players he and Ślęza had developed and sold as the deal was done.

Patryk Jez was officially a Fiorentina player with €180,000 wired into Ślęza Wrocław’s account.

Scott sat in the office staring at the email confirming the transfer. He should have been happy, the club had just secured a record fee for a young midfielder who had come through their system. But instead, there was a familiar weight in his chest.

Another talent gone. Another player he had believed in, developed, and trusted was moving on before they could achieve anything lasting together.

He pushed his chair back and made his way down to the training pitch, where Jez was saying his goodbyes.

The young midfielder looked a little nervous, shifting from foot to foot as Scott approached.

‘Didn’t think I’d be leaving this soon’ Jez admitted.

Scott exhaled through his nose, nodding ‘yeah, me neither’

There was a pause, then Scott patted him on the shoulder ‘but it’s a **** of a move, Patryk, you’ve earned it. Fiorentina’s a big club and you’ve got a chance to make something of yourself there’

Jez smiled, a little more confident now ‘I owe it all to you Scott’

Scott smirked and laughed ‘**** right you do’

They shook hands, and for a moment Scott saw all the potential that had just walked out the door. But he pushed the thought aside.

‘Knock em’ dead, kid’ Scott said firmly, and just like that Patryk Jez was gone to pastures new.

Scott watched him leave, hands on his hips and the cold January wind cutting through his jacket.

Another one leaves.

‘One day, it won’t be like this’ he said to himself. He wasn’t against it, it was part of football. But one day, he wanted to keep them long enough to win something.

– – – – --​

 

[bigmattb28]

Scott had barely finished processing the loss of Patryk Jez when Marcin walked into his office, looking far too pleased with himself.

‘Wisła Kraków came in for Kwiatkowski,” he said, dropping into the chair across from Scott.

Scott sighed, leaning back ‘of course they did.I spoke to Artur about it earlier’

‘Relax’ Marcin grinned ‘it’s handled’

Scott raised an eyebrow ‘meaning?’

‘Meaning we got €40k, and he stays here until the end of the season’

That was something, at least. Kwiatkowski had become an important part of the squad, and losing him mid season would have hurt.

‘Good work’ Scott said

Marcin smirked, clearly enjoying himself ‘that’s not everything boss’

Scott frowned, the unease on his face evident ‘what else?’

‘I spoke with Piotr Stokowiec during the negotiations for Artur, we spoke about Kamil Karczewski, the young kid René Ortner has been scouting in the under 19’s league, lots of raw potential, but he’s not getting near their first team’

Marcin grinned and said ‘he’s happy to sell. Says the kid’s got a great future, but Wisła Kraków aren’t the place for him, not this season. They’re struggling near the bottom of the Ekstraklasa, fighting for survival, in his own words there’s no time to ease in youngsters’

Scott nodded. It happens every season, when a team is battling to stay up, potential takes a backseat to experience. Managers couldn’t afford to let a kid grow into the game when every point mattered.

‘They do rate him’ Marcin continued ‘just not enough to risk points on him. Ślęza, though? We’d be perfect’

Scott nodded slowly. It wasn’t often a manager admitted they weren’t the right club for a player but it was exactly the kind of opportunity Ślęza needed to pounce on.

‘Go for it. I’ll read Rene’s report on him today and I trust yours and his judgement’ Scott said, already thinking ahead.

Marcin gave a lazy salute ‘we’ve got a call later on to finalise things with him’

Another player out, another player in.

The cycle never stopped.

-- -- -- -- --​

 

[bigmattb28]

January 2020 news​

Liverpool fans have had a rough few seasons, but surely, surely this season would be different? Spoiler alert; It wasn’t.

Their transfer business was, to put it kindly, a shambles. They splashed €40 million on Yoshinori Mutô, a man who scored exactly TWO goals last season for Mainz. That’s €20 million per goal, not bad if you’re Mainz, but absolutely horrific if you’re Liverpool.

Meanwhile, they offloaded Adam Lallana back to Southampton for €21 million which, considering Liverpool’s track record in the transfer market might actually go down as a rare moment of competence. To rub salt in the wounds, Lallana has since been called up to the England squad and is putting in performances for Southampton that Liverpool fans can only wish he’d managed during his time at Anfield.

And then there’s the Firmino / Haaland disaster class. Roberto Firmino, who Liverpool let go to Dortmund, has already banged in 13 goals in the Bundesliga, which is more than any Liverpool player has managed this season. But if you thought that was bad, get this, Erling Haaland, who they sold for just £2 million, has scored 17 in 18 games for Salzburg. That sound you hear? It’s Liverpool fans crying into their pints at the Albert Dock.

With Liverpool lingering in midtable, patience finally ran out in December. Phillip Cocu was sacked when they sat in 12th place, after Marcel Sabitzer, Stokes big money signing from Spurs in the summer, of all people scored the winner for Stoke City at Anfield in a humiliating 2-1 loss. Cocu became their third manager in four seasons which is the kind of turnover you expect at a dodgy kebab shop, not a club that once ruled Europe.

But just when you thought Liverpool couldn’t be any more of a laughing stock, they went and did the impossible, wait for it……..they hired John Terry as manager.

Yes, John Terry. The man whose managerial CV consisted of six months running Nottingham Forest’s U23s and then scraping Norwich into the Premier League via the playoffs.

The best part? If Liverpool had waited just three more days, they could’ve had Rafa Benítez, who left Spurs and is actually qualified for the job. Instead, they got a bloke who is better known for his extracurricular activities than his tactical expertise. Let’s just say, if Liverpool’s players aren’t pulling their weight on the pitch, they might want to keep an eye on what’s happening off it, especially at home.

Because if Liverpool’s players don’t start performing under Terry, it’s not benching they should be worried about. It’s their wives.

In a move that has left many scratching their heads, Thorsten Fink has decided to swap the comfort of managing Russian champions Zenit Saint Petersburg for the never ending chaos of Tottenham Hotspur, replacing Rafa Benitez. Yes, you read that right, he’s leaving a club that actually wins things for one that specializes in bottling them.

At Zenit, Fink had stability, silverware, and a squad built to dominate domestically and at least challenge in Europe, the third place in Group B (alongside Ajax, Benfica and Bayern Munich) of this years Champions League and subsequent Europa League place a testament to that. At Spurs, he has…..well, Daniel Levy breathing down his neck and a squad that looks allergic to success.

He can still call on Harry Kane’s services, however his form has completely fallen off a cliff. The man that at one time couldn’t stop scoring now looks like he couldn’t hit a barn door with a beach ball. His finishing has been so bad this season that Spurs fans and pundits alike are starting to wonder if he’s actually a defensive midfielder in disguise. With Kane’s constant misfiring, the Spurs attack looks about as dangerous as a Nerf gun, leaving Fink with the unenviable task of getting the striker back to his best, or at least scoring more than his own defenders.

Some might say this is ambition, others might call it career sabotage. Either way, Fink has left a job where he was almost guaranteed to add to his trophy collection for one where a fourth place finish gets a parade.

Best of luck, Thorsten,you’re going to need it.

== == == == ==​

As January 2020 kicked off, the Premier League table had taken a turn for the bizarre. Chelsea and Arsenal are locked in an intense title race at the top, Man City are lurking in third, and in fourth place, defying all logic, expectations, and possibly the laws of football itself, there is Southampton.

Yes, Southampton. The same club that usually spends January fighting off relegation, selling half their squad, or both. But this season? They’re sitting in a Champions League spot like they actually belong there. It’s like turning up to a five star restaurant and seeing someone eating a Greggs sausage roll at the table next to you.

Leading the charge for the Saints is Charlie Austin, who has somehow discovered the form of a prime Alan Shearer and banged in 12 goals. His strike partner? Radamel Falcao. Yes, the same Falcao that Chelsea and Man United fans remember as a very expensive spectator. But at Southampton this season he has 11 goals already.

And then there’s Breel Embolo, their record breaking €82 million signing. Many laughed when they spent that kind of money, but he’s been tearing it up with 14 assists and 8 goals. That’s right, the most unexpected big money signing in Premier League history is actually paying off.

Southampton in the top four. Charlie Austin out scoring some of the league’s biggest names. Falcao looking like he actually remembers how to play football. If this isn’t proof we’re living in a simulation, I don’t know what is.

Who had John Guidetti as the Premier League’s top scorer in January? Anyone? No one? Well, here we are, Newcastle’s Swedish sensation is setting the league alight with 16 goals, proving that sometimes football really is a funny old game.

Hot on his heels is Paulo Dybala (14 goals), because of course he is, he’s Paulo Dybala. The Argentine is doing what he does best, and even after Manchester City’s transfer window chaos, more on that shortly, he remains their most reliable attacking force.

And then there’s Callum Wilson (13 goals), who refuses to be ignored. Bournemouth might not be challenging for the title, but Wilson is showing you don’t need to play for a superclub to bang in the goals.

With half a season left to play, the race for the Golden Boot is shaping up to be a three horse thriller, unless, of course, someone else decides to go on a second half of the season goal rampage. Either way, Newcastle fans are loving life, because for the first time in ages, they’ve got a striker actually putting the ball in the net consistently.

 

[bigmattb28]

The January window is always a time for panic buys, overpriced transfers, and decisions that make absolutely no sense. Enter Manchester City.

First, they actually did some smart business, snapping up Federico Bernardeschi from Barcelona for £30 million. A tidy signing, a player with quality, and a move that makes complete sense.

And then… Thomas Tuchel decided to break football.

Because for reasons only he and possibly a magic eight ball understand, City have just sold Kevin De Bruyne to Real Madrid for £75 million. Kevin. De Bruyne.

The best playmaker, if not the best player in the world. The guy who could find a pass in a hurricane blindfolded. The heartbeat of City's midfield. Gone.

What was Tuchel thinking? Did he lose a bet? Did he wake up and decide to make life harder for himself? Has he accidentally mistaken De Bruyne for an average squad player? Nobody knows, but City fans are absolutely losing their minds. Selling your best player in the middle of a title race is like setting your own house on fire and then acting surprised when it burns down.

Meanwhile, at Real Madrid, Florentino Pérez is probably laughing himself to sleep. De Bruyne joins a squad that already boasts Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Luka Modrić, goal machine Andrea Belotti and a bottomless pit of talent. If Madrid weren’t scary enough already, they’ve now got a guy who can split defences open like a hot knife through butter.

Tuchel, mate, are you okay?

Torsten Fink has wasted no time in trying to make Spurs relevant again, splashing €45 million on Manuel Locatelli from AC Milan. A solid midfielder for sure, but let’s be honest, why on earth is he leaving AC Milan for Tottenham?

This is a guy who grew up at Milan, played in the San Siro regularly and was part of a club with actual history and prestige. Now, he’s traded all that for Spurs, where the biggest tradition is bottling trophies and finishing just outside the top four. Was he tricked into signing? Did Fink tell him he was actually joining Arsenal or did Locatelli think Fink was still at Zenit? Whatever the reason, Locatelli has made a decision he might regret by about March.

Not stopping there though, as Spurs also threw £20 million at Schalke for Matija Nastasić. A decent defender, but let’s not pretend this is prime Maldini walking through the door. At this rate, Fink’s master plan for Tottenham’s revival is spending big on players who aren’t exactly game changers.

Still, at least it’s not another ‘one for the future’ signing, Spurs fans have seen enough of those to last a lifetime.

Remember Ganso? If you ever played Football Manager back in the day, you’ll know exactly why this transfer feels like it was made in 2012, not 2020.

Leicester have dipped into the nostalgia vault and signed the former Brazilian wonderkid from Schalke for £10 million. Once touted as the next big thing, Ganso was supposed to be the heir to Kaká, the midfield maestro every big club wanted. Fast forward to today, and he’s taking his talents to the King Power Stadium instead.

To be fair it feels like a Football Manager regen has just come to life. Somewhere out there FM veterans are shedding a tear, reminiscing about the days when signing Ganso meant instant domination. Whether this move actually works out for Leicester or just ends up as a weird piece of transfer trivia remains to be seen.

 

[bigmattb28]

Kevin Kampl has waved goodbye to Bayer Leverkusen and Jurgen Klopp and more importantly, European football to chase the big money in China, joining Huaxia for a ridiculous €50 million. Yes, fifty million. For Kevin Kampl.

Let’s be frank, how did Huaxia come to this decision? Did they accidentally add an extra zero to the transfer offer? Was there a clerical error where they thought they were bidding for a world class midfielder? Nobody’s quite sure, but one thing is clear; Kampl is about to be swimming in cash while playing in front of half empty stadiums.

Meanwhile, Klopp wasted no time in spending some of that fortune, using €18 million of it to bring Philippe Coutinho in from Barcelona.

But why Leverkusen? Did they outbid everyone in the Bundesliga with their charm offensive? Did Coutinho just fancy a new adventure? Or did Klopp just offer him a stack of cash and a promise of first team football? Maybe they threw in a free pair of leather shorts, who knows? Either way, Leverkusen fans can’t decide whether to be absolutely over the moon or slightly concerned that this is the start of another weird footballing chapter. It’s one thing for a player to leave Barcelona for a Bundesliga side; it’s another to see if he can live up to the hype once again. Time will tell if Coutinho can rediscover his best form or if he’ll just end up regretting this as much as Barcelona probably did.

Borussia Dortmund have opened their wallets once again, snapping up João Cancelo from Valencia for €33 million. Given how solid Cancelo has been this season, leading La Liga in average rating (8.38), assists (13) and tackles made (38), you have to wonder how Valencia let this one happen, did they accidentally agree to the deal while half asleep? For Dortmund, it’s another quality addition as they continue their quest to topple Bayern Munich. Cancelo brings pace, technical ability, and the kind of attacking threat from full back that will have Bundesliga wingers wondering if they’re actually supposed to be defending him instead.

It’s a big move for Cancelo, swapping the sunny beaches of Spain for the industrial charm of Dortmund. But hey, at least he’ll have Champions League football to look forward to, instead of another mid table slog with Valencia.

After pocketing a tidy sum of €36 million from Bayern for Joelinton, Hoffenheim have decided to reinvest that cash in Moise Kean, signing him from Juventus for a whopping €41 million.

Now, the big question on everyone’s mind - Can Kean score as many goals as Joelinton did? Let’s not forget, Joelinton managed a respectable 19 in 36 Bundesliga games last season, and now the pressure is on Kean to match or ideally exceed that tally. Kean, known for his promise at Juventus, has more than a few eyes on him to prove he's more than just potential.

Hoffenheim fans will be hoping Kean can step up and fill the big shoes left by Joelinton, who was a beast for the club, scoring goals and tearing defences apart for fun. They were absolutely gutted to see him leave for Bayern, but now the question is can Kean be the ideal replacement and deliver the same kind of firepower?

Jairo Riedewald has packed his bags and swapped PSG for Real Madrid in a €36 million move. Now, we’re not saying Madrid are just hoarding players at this point, but if they keep this up, they might have enough to field three separate teams. It’s a big move for Riedewald, but also a bit of a surprise; was he secretly Florentino Pérez’s favorite Football Manager wonderkid back in the day?

Speaking of wonderkids, Xavi Vega, Espanyol’s golden boy, has left sunny Barcelona behind to join Schalke for €31 million. A big fee for a young player, but Schalke clearly believe they’ve got a future star on their hands. Either that, or they’ve just played too much Football Manager and got a little carried away. Let’s hope Vega justifies the investment and isn’t Schalke’s answer to ‘expensive bench warmer’

Over in France, Lyon have swooped in for Yannick Bolasie, signing him from Atletico Madrid for €9 million. Now, Bolasie at Atletico always felt a little odd, like seeing a Sunday League player at a Michelin starred restaurant. So, this Lyon move might actually make sense. A new league, a fresh start, and a chance to remind everyone that he’s still got those silky skills, or at least one skill move that FIFA players love.

And finally, we’ve got Xadas, another Atletico Madrid youth product, making a €15 million move to Monaco. Could this be a shrewd piece of business, a clever investment in a young talent? Or is it just Monaco doing their usual trick of throwing money at random youngsters, hoping one turns into the next Mbappé? Only time will tell. But hey, worst case scenario, he’ll get a lovely tan in Monte Carlo while sitting on the bench.

 

[bigmattb28]

Evan James, remember him? The guy who left New York Red Bulls for Hamburg and has since managed a jaw dropping 39 games and a mere 22 goals in the Bundesliga (no big deal, right?). Well, in a twist nobody saw coming, he’s just signed for Manchester City for a whopping €49 million, becoming the most expensive Canadian ever. No, seriously, Canada’s got a new footballing superstar (or at least Manchester City are hoping he’ll be one).

But hey, the potential is there. At just 20 years old, James is now being hailed as the long term replacement for Paulo Dybala, who’s only 26 (talk about pressure!). Dybala, by the way, is already considered the replacement for Sergio Agüero, who, for his part in the James deal has made his own move to Roma for €15 million, linking up with his former City strike partner Edin Džeko.

In his debut match for City against West Ham, James came off the bench and did what any young prodigy would do, scoring the equalizer in the 77th minute as City went on to win 2-1. A debut to remember, right? Just the sort of performance you’d expect from someone who's about to be touted as ‘the next big thing’ in world football (no pressure, Evan).

Meanwhile, Agüero made his own mark in Rome, scoring the winner on his debut against Sampdoria. Looks like everyone’s off to a good start, except maybe Hamburg, who are still wondering how they let James go in the first place.

The MLS Cup Final, not that many people outside of the US pay much attention to it, saw DC United edge past Real Salt Lake 3-2, and if there was any doubt about Giuseppe Rossi’s impact, he put it to bed with a performance that cemented his status as the league’s best forward.

After finishing the season as MLS top scorer with 22 goals in 38 games, he turned up on the biggest stage, netting both the equalizer and the winner to bring the trophy back to DC.

Meanwhile, Orlando City’s playoff run was unceremoniously ended in the Eastern Conference Semifinal by Toronto, not that anyone was shocked. But while their campaign didn’t make headlines, James Robson certainly did. The 2019 MLS Draft’s first overall pick was Orlando’s starting right back and put up unbelievable numbers for a rookie defender, 15 assists, 2 goals and an average rating of 8.21 in 29 appearances. Naturally, Red Bull Salzburg are sniffing around, because what else do they do besides hoover up young talent that are rough around the edges, polish them up and sell them for at least triple the price to the Premier League?

The other surprise is his teammate Kai Jones, the attacking midfielder who posted 4 goals and 12 assists in 34 appearances. Not bad for a first season, and it caught the attention of Napoli, Villarreal, and, yes, Red Bull Salzburg again. At this point, Salzburg might as well set up an official MLS draft war room in the New York Red Bulls front office.

And now for the weirdest bit of transfer news from The States, which includes Tottenham Hotspur of course. Reports claim new manager Torsten Fink is interested in José Juan Montaño. Who? is a question many people have asked. Montaño was the 12th overall pick in the 2019 MLS Draft. The Portland midfielder only played sixteen games, nine of which he came off the bench in, but he started the last seven of the season, and apparently, that’s enough for Spurs to believe he’s their creative savior.

Tottenham, the club that just dropped €45 million on Manuel Locatelli, now eyeing a rookie MLS midfielder as their answer to midfield creativity? At this point, Daniel Levy’s transfer policy is just picking names out of a hat and hoping for the best.

After two and a half unforgettable seasons at Boca Juniors, Daniel De Rossi has officially retired from football, leaving behind a legacy that even the most die hard Boca and Roma fans could hardly have dreamed of.

Arriving in Argentina as an experienced veteran, many assumed De Rossi would be a short term nostalgia signing, but instead, he delivered 88 games of pure midfield mastery, contributing 13 goals, 15 assists, and more goal saving tackles than Boca’s keepers would like to admit. His average ratings of 7.93, 8.15, and 8.01 in Buenos Aires tell the full story, this guy never had a bad game.

De Rossi bows out with two back to back Primera División titles and a Copa Argentina, proving once again that some players just have football in their DNA. And he’s not leaving La Bombonera behind, either. He joins up with the Schelotto twins on the coaching staff, with Guillermo as manager and Gustavo as assistant, stepping into a first team coaching role.

So while Boca fans alike will miss seeing that unmistakable warrior like presence on the pitch, they can at least rest easy knowing that De Rossi will still be there, just in the dugout screaming instructions instead of crunching tackles.

 

[bigmattb28]

At the start of the month there was dread and worry on the red side of Merseyside, but by the end of January it’s looking like an inspired appointment. The Reds have won their first four games under their controversial new boss, beating Spurs and West Brom at Anfield and taking maximum points on the road at Norwich and Derby.

Coincidence? Tactical brilliance? The new manager effect? Or are the players simply terrified of what might happen if they don’t perform? Rumors are flying that Terry’s pre match pep talks include a not so subtle reminder about what happens to the wives of those who underperform. Whether it's motivation or sheer panic, it's working, Liverpool are climbing the table, and for now, the dressing room remains…. intact.

If you had Shrewsbury Town sitting sixth in the Championship at the end of January on your football bingo card, congratulations, you’re either a psychic or lying.

Under Gary Mills, who guided them to League One glory last season, the Shrews are punching well above their weight. And they’ve done it on a budget that wouldn’t even cover a Premier League club’s catering bill.

Harry Wilson arrived from Liverpool for a mere £250k, daylight robbery for a player that’s managed 8 goals this season. Conor Gallagher, loaned in from Reading, has been a midfield engine. James Maddison, picked up for free from Norwich, is looking like a genius signing after controlling the midfield effortlessly. Saulo Decarli, signed for £3 million from Swiss side Basel has added much needed defensive stability. And then there’s Ryan Boness, the Liverpool loanee, who has 15 goals in the Championship, alongside the creativity and passing from Maddison and Wilson has been terrorizing defences.

Mills is working miracles with a squad built on smart signings, loans, and a whole lot of belief. Whether they can keep this pace up and actually make a Premier League push, this or next season, remains to be seen. But for now, Shrewsbury fans are enjoying every minute of this unexpected ride.

 

[bigmattb28]

Chapter 48​

Scott sat back in his office chair, exhaling a deep breath as he scrolled through the final confirmations. Bartosz Jaroszek and Diego Malania had signed their new contracts. His two pillars at the back, ever present all season and ever reliable were staying put.

This was huge.

For all the talent he had seen come and go, for all the young players snatched away by bigger clubs, he had kept his defensive foundation intact. Jaroszek, the no nonsense leader, and Malania, the gritty, ball playing warrior. They had started every game this season together, a partnership built on sweat, bruises, and an uncanny understanding of each other’s movements.

Scott let out a chuckle, shaking his head ‘you two better not drop your levels now’ he muttered to himself, knowing full well that these two weren’t the type to slack off.

Since the winter break Ślęza’s form had been unpredictable. There were moments of brilliance, some big wins and stunning performances, but also frustrating setbacks. They had never climbed higher than third place, but for a newly promoted side expecting to battle against relegation, that was an incredible achievement. He'd built a team greater than the sum of it's parts. The players beleived in him, beleived in his ideas. The staff respected his vision and the results, despite the occasional stumble spoke volumes. He hadn't just made Ślęza competitive, he made the believe. And maybe that was the point. That he’d done enough to prove he could build something, exceed expectations and make others take notice. Scott Lańkowski wasn’t just keeping a small club afloat, he was showing he could take them beyond their ceiling. The question now was whether he’d done enough to take himself there too.

Some weeks, they looked like genuine contenders for back to back promotions. Other weeks, they looked like a team still adjusting to the brutal grind of the second tier. Scott wasn’t disheartened, though.

They were holding their own in a league where nobody had expected them to survive. He had seen enough in his players to know that they weren’t finished yet, not by a long shot.

And now, with Jaroszek and Malania locked in for the future, Ślęza Wrocław had a backbone to build on.

== == == == ==​

Scott walked to the training ground as the final session of the season was wrapping up, and he leant against the dugout railing, arms crossed, watching as Leândro finished his final few sprints after training. The league’s top scorer. 18 goals in a promoted team that not only defied logic and survived relegation, but finished third, just a few points off automatic promotion. A return that nobody, not even Scott, had fully expected at the start of the season.

Leândro jogged over, sweat dripping from his brow, but there was a grin on his face. The same confident, almost cocky smile he always had.

‘So?’ Leândro smirked, tapping his chest ‘not bad for an old man, huh?’ he said in exceptional English

Scott laughed ‘old? You’re 31 not 51! And if that’s old, I’ll take more ‘old’ players like you’

Leândro had been outstanding all season. His movement, composure, and clinical finishing had been the difference in so many games. Even when Ślęza’s form had been up and down, Leândro had been the one constant. The man they could rely on.

‘18 goals’ Scott said, shaking his head ‘that’s serious numbers for a promoted side Leo’

Leândro grinned wider ‘could’ve been 25 if you didn’t sub me so much’

Scott rolled his eyes ‘could’ve been 35 if you didn’t miss a few sitters’

They both laughed, but the pride was real. For Leândro, this was validation. He had been doubted before, past his best apparently before joining Scott, but here he was, leading the scoring charts in a competitive league.

For Scott, it was proof of the system working. Proof that Ślęza Wrocław belonged in this division.

​

 

[bigmattb28]

== == == == ==​

Later that day, after the first team had finished the session and left, Scott sat in his office, phone pressed to his ear, as he waited for Luca Vigiani, Lazio’s first team manager, to pick up. He had dealt with Vigiani before when negotiating Patryk Zygmunt’s sale back in January, and now he was calling with a clear request - one more year.

When Vigiani finally answered, Scott didn’t waste time.

‘Patryk’s thriving here. He’s getting games, he’s developing, and he’s crucial to us. If he goes back to Lazio now, he’s sitting on the bench and that if he’s even in the first team. That helps no one’

There was a pause, then a sigh on the other end ‘I rate him, Scott. That’s why we bought him’

Scott leaned forward ‘exactly. So let him keep playing. We both know he’s not breaking into your first team just yet. One more season here, regular minutes, and you get back a player who’s ready to play in Serie A’

Another pause. Then, finally ‘okay, we’ll extend the loan to you. One more year, I’ll see him tomorrow when he gets back to Rome’

Scott grinned ‘pleasure doing business with you, Luca, all the best for next season’

As that conversation was ending, another was continuing. Marcin was working on something just as important.

With Wisła Kraków relegated, it meant Artur Kwiatkowski, on loan at Ślęza from Krakow after the sign and loan back deal was completed in January, was technically back in their squad after leaving Wroclaw a few days before the rest of the team. And that was a problem. If he didn’t return to Sleza, he’d be playing against them next season.

So Marcin worked the phones, sent the mails, pushing for an extension to the loan deal. He finally caught Piotr Stokowiec, Wisła’s manager, at the right time.

‘He’s been great for us, Piotr as I’m sure you know. I spoke with Jasczek Polski (the Wisla Krakow scout) a couple of times when he was here watching us play and keeping an eye on Artur. He’s getting minutes, developing. He’s better off staying here’

Stokowiec said dryly ‘look Marcin, I’ll be blunt, we have bigger issues here. Relegation means we need a full rebuild and I’m walking a tightrope here, my job is on the line. He’s not in our immediate plans, so…’ he waited a moment before continuing ‘yes, you can have him for another season'

Marcin didn’t bat an eyelid, he knew the deal would be extended.

When Scott and Marcin met later that day, there was a rare moment of pure celebration.

‘Zygmunt is staying’

‘So is Kwiatkowski’

‘That’s two names ticked off’ Scott said as a smile slid across his face ‘we’re not just building a squad for next season, Marcin. We’re keeping our best pieces together. And that’s how we push on’

– – – – --​

 

[bigmattb28]

Summer 2020 news​

The Premier League title race was over before the final day, with Chelsea wrapping it up weeks ago, confirming what most already knew, they were a class above the rest this season. Massimo Allegri copying Joachim Lows feat at Arsenal last season, by winning the Premier League in his first season at the club.

But let’s talk about Newcastle United, who finished second. Second! Guus Hiddink left behind a well oiled machine, and Jorge Jesus didn’t mess it up, quite the opposite, he took what Hiddink had started and continued developing it. The Toon Army might just start dreaming about a title charge next year.

Arsenal secured third, because of course they did despite winning the league on the last day of the season last year. Manchester City just about clung onto fourth, despite selling their best player mid season for reasons still unknown. Thomas Tuchel is still being asked about the De Bruyne sale daily.

Manchester United ended up in fifth, and then there's Southampton in sixth, yes, Southampton, the club that somehow found £82 million to sign Breel Embolo. Turns out money well spent because they’re off to Europe!

Meanwhile, Liverpool, under the most unlikely of managers, John Terry, climbed to eighth after a dreadful first half of the season. Apparently nothing motivates players quite like the fear of their manager moving in on their wives.

At the bottom, Ipswich, Crystal Palace, and Norwich waved goodbye to the Premier League. Norwich, as always, will probably be back next season because that’s just what they do.

Callum Wilson is the Premier League top scorer with 20 goals. Newcastle’s Alexander Mitrovic just missed out with 19, while Dybala rounded off the top three with 18.

And then there’s Evan James, the Canadian wonderkid, who only needed 9 games to score 8 goals for Manchester City. At this rate, next season’s Golden Boot race might just belong to him.

In the Championship Watford stormed the league, clinching the title with Brighton hot on their heels in second, both securing automatic promotion. No drama for them, just a smooth ride to the Premier League.

Everton, on the other hand? Absolute disasterclass.

Everton fans will be having nightmares about that Sheffield Wednesday game for years, 4-0 at Goodison on the final day? Brutal. One win away from the playoffs, and they bottle it in spectacular fashion. Classic.You couldn't script a bigger bottle job

Meanwhile, Reading took full advantage, edging past Wednesday 1-0 in the play off final to book their Premier League return.

Shrewsbury did well all things considered, finishing an impressive 9th in the Championship just a season after coming up from League One. Gary Mills, working miracles on a shoestring budget and with a squad that most had written off as relegation fodder, scooped the Manager of the Year award, and rightly so. He turned bargain buys and loan deals into a cohesive, fearless unit that punched well above their weight.

Burnley’s Diego Galván might’ve been the unsung hero of the Championship season, scooping up Player of the Year after a stellar 17 clean sheets. Unfortunately his heroics weren't enough to see Burnley through the play offs.

Despite Galván’s brilliance in the sticks Burnley fell short in the play off semi final against Reading who went on to win it. Classic Burnley; too good to go up automatically, but not quite good enough when it really mattered. Galván’s 17 clean sheets might be a highlight, but it’s a shame he couldn’t seal the deal for Burnley. A valiant effort, but in the end, it’s Reading who got the promotion.

Newcastle claimed the FA Cup with a 2-0 victory over Southampton at Wembley thanks to a stunning double from Iñaki Williams. The Spaniard was in superb form, netting both goals to seal the win and hand Newcastle another major trophy, following the FA cup win in 2018 and Europa League win in 2019. Southampton, who had a solid season themselves, just couldn’t get going in the final, leaving Newcastle to celebrate.

 

[bigmattb28]

Juventus win Serie A again, because of course they do. That’s three in a row for Antonio Conte since his dramatic return to the touchline in Turin. The man could probably win a Scudetto managing a group of mannequins in Juve shirts. Napoli finished second, AC Milan third, Roma fourth, Inter fifth, and Sassuolo, yes, Sassuolo snuck into sixth.

But the real story? Siem De Jong casually outscoring Higuaín, Immobile, Isak, Aguero and Džeko to claim the golden boot with 21 goals. Somewhere, a football hipster is weeping tears of vindication into their Ajax scarf.

And while Sergio Aguero didn't win the scoring crown, he still reminded everyone that he’s world class; 15 goals in just 20 games for Roma since arriving on deadline day. That’s less of a striker and more of a goal scoring machine with a Roman holiday twist.

Real Madrid clinched La Liga yet again, back to back for them now since Barcelona did a three-peat. Barcelona came second, and Atlético Madrid rounded out the top three; standard fare in Spain these days. Andrea Belotti, somehow still defying logic and defenders alike, topped the scoring charts with 25 goals. Meanwhile, Messi only managed 20, which in his world is practically a drought, and Ronaldo chipped in with 18. Still proving that class never fades, even as the legs slow just a touch his instincts in front of goal remain razor sharp.

Ligue 1 delivered some actual drama on the final day, as Monaco and PSG finished neck and neck on 92 points with identical records: 29 wins, 5 draws, and 4 defeats each. You’d think the league would just let them wrestle for the trophy at that point. But alas, the title came down to goal difference,Monaco's +61 edging out PSG's +55. It was fine margins and fine finishing all season long.

Both teams did what they had to do in their final fixtures, won comfortably, but it was Monaco who were left celebrating, champagne flying, while PSG were probably left furiously calculating how many more goals they should’ve scored against Angers back in October.

Dusan Vlahović was lethal all season with 26 goals, while Morata hit 20 and Aye chipped in with 18. Not bad for a division often accused of being ‘a farmer’s league’, these guys were harvesting goals like there was no tomorrow.

Elsewhere in the league, Saint-Étienne, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Nice all made their presence known though perhaps some more for the chaos than the quality. Still, in a title race this tight, even a dodgy offside goal that got given or an unexpected late equaliser somewhere in February could’ve changed everything.

But credit where it’s due to Monaco who were machine like when it mattered. And PSG? Well, they’ve got the money, but this time, not the margin.

Noteworthy scenes in the Bundesliga as the title race actually… existed?! It all came down to the final day, with Bayer Leverkusen hosting Bayern Munich in a genuine winner-takes-all showdown. Leverkusen were on 74 points, Bayern on 76, just a draw would’ve been enough for Bayern to do what Bayern always do and casually stroll off with yet another title.

But in a twist nobody saw coming (especially Bayern), Leverkusen snatched the lead in the 83rd minute thanks to David Neres and somehow, somehow, held on. It could’ve been done earlier had Javier Hernandez not done his best impression of someone who had never seen a penalty before.

So for once, the Bundesliga gods said ‘Nein’ to Bayern. Somewhere in Germany, neutrals popped open champagne, while Bayern fans stared blankly into the abyss, muttering ‘das war nicht im Drehbuch’

Carlo Ancelotti stepped down as Bayern manager following the dramatic final day defeat to Leverkusen. Some say it was a planned exit, others reckon he rage quit like a teenager losing a FIFA match, fed up that Bayern only won the cup this year and not their traditional millionth Bundesliga title. Rumour has it his resignation letter just said ‘no league title? I’m out. Ciao’

Pep Guardiola was quickly approached and offered the Bayern job, because when in doubt just hit the reset button and ask Pep to come back. Bayern clearly thought ‘well, he’s already got the club scarf somewhere in his cupboard, right?’ Sources say the board didn’t even schedule an interview, just texted him ‘U up?’

Pep, probably sipping herbal tea and sketching a new 2-3-5 possession heavy formation on a napkin, didn’t take much convincing.

 

[bigmattb28]

2020 Euros.​

The 2020 Euros kicked off with a shocker as Serbia pulled off the kind of comeback that makes grown French defenders stare blankly into the distance. France led 2-0 in the opening Group B clash, looking every bit the tournament favourites… until the second half happened. Serbia roared back with three goals that had Arsene Wenger wishing he could sub himself on. A textbook case of ‘how did that happen?’ unless you're Serbian, in which case it's ‘how about that!?’

France didn’t stay sulking for long. After that Serbian slap in the face, they went on a redemption tour that looked like they were taking names and settling scores. They beat Portugal with a performance that made Ronaldo throw his hands up more than usual, breezed past Switzerland, outclassed Croatia, and sent Russia packing with a ‘merci, but no merci’ kind of display.

By the time they reached the final, France looked less like a team and more like a stylish vengeance machine powered by baguettes and spite.

The biggest shock of the tournament? Well, it wasn’t France’s revenge tour, nor was it Spain trying to rediscover their tiki-taka. Nope, it was Norway. Yes, Norway, a country known for stunning fjords, beautiful landscapes, and a football team that hadn’t exactly set the world on fire, somehow made it all the way to the final.


Their semi-final victory against Italy was nothing short of miraculous. It was a penalty shootout, which means one thing: drama. Italy, usually as cool as gelato in the Alps, completely lost their heads, missing three penalties, while Norway kept their composure. After that, even the Norwegians had to be asking themselves ‘wait, are we actually in the final? Is this real life?’

Erling Haaland did everything he could to carry Norway to glory in the final, and let’s be honest, the guy practically dragged his team there. With a goal in the final, it was clear that Norway’s hopes rested firmly on the broad shoulders of the Viking striker. But, in the end, it wasn’t enough. France were just too strong, too composed, and well... too French.

The match ended 3-1 in favor of France, with Haaland’s goal being little more than a consolation for the Norwegians. France, in their usual style, had a flair about them, just like that final croissant of the day; crisp, golden, and satisfying. They’d done enough to prove they were the better team, but you could almost feel Haaland's frustration from the other side of Europe.

Norway could hold their heads high though. After all, who would have predicted they’d even make it to the final? Certainly not anyone who’d watched them play in previous years. But Haaland was the star of the tournament, and at least he can say he gave the French a good run for their money!

Haaland was nothing short of a revelation at the 2020 Euros, scoring a record breaking 12 goals, the most ever in a European Championship finals. It was like watching a Viking on a rampage, if Vikings had a knack for scoring goals instead of pillaging villages. Every time Haaland stepped on the pitch, you could almost hear the collective gasp of defenders everywhere as they scrambled to stop him, only to fail miserably.

His 12 goals weren't just numbers on a stat sheet, they were moments of pure magic, and it’s no surprise he dominated the tournament’s scoring charts. Some of his goals were as clinical as a surgeon, while others looked like he was just casually strolling through defenses like they weren’t even there.

He didn’t get to lift the trophy in the end, but Haaland’s remarkable feat will go down in history as one of the most memorable performances in Euros history. And while Norway didn’t win the title, they certainly left their mark on the tournament. With Haaland leading the charge, they were the surprise package of the competition, proof that you don’t need to win the trophy to steal the spotlight.

 

[bigmattb28]

As expected, the post tournament managerial carousel was in full swing, with some familiar faces making moves and others calling it a day.



Julen Lopetegui left his post as Spain’s manager after their early exit, which wasn’t exactly a surprise, given the drama surrounding his pre tournament squad list, he left out Vitolo and Juan Mata, sacrilege. Meanwhile, Roger Schmidt was shown the door by Germany after their disappointing Euro campaign, guess those German efficiency standards don't leave room for underperformance.



In a move that made sense in some ways but left people scratching their heads in others, Luis Enrique left La Liga runners up Barcelona to take over as Spain’s new boss. Spain fans are hoping his ‘passion for possession’ doesn’t turn their game into a ‘passing festival’ with no end result.



Mirko Slomka, who had been steering the ship at Wolfsburg was surprisingly offered the Germany job, sparking speculation that his time at the club was deemed ‘as efficient as a German train system’ but not quite as reliable.



Meanwhile, Arsène Wenger, after guiding France to the final and winning the Euros, confirmed he’d step down, leaving a legacy of questionable tactical decisions and an inability to change his coat. More on him shortly.



Claude Puel, who had been underwhelming with England and spent most of his time there redefining the word ‘meh’, made a lateral move to France. The French public are already split—some hopeful he’ll continue leading them to glory, others suspecting he just fancied a return to croissants and slightly warmer press conferences.



Finally, after Gianpiero Ventura called it a day, Roberto Mancini was pulled from PSG’s safe haven to reignite Italy’s fortunes. Was it the glitz and glamour of Paris? Or was it just an opportunity to rebuild a more stable Italy side? Either way, he’s swapped the luxury of the French capital for the pressure of rebuilding the Azzurri.



After stepping down from Euro-winning France, because apparently going out on a high is still fashionable, Arsène Wenger decided retirement was overrated and took the reins at Barcelona. Expect tiki-taka, teenage wonderkids, and jackets with fewer zips.

Meanwhile, PSG wasted no time replacing Roberto Mancini (who swanned off to take the Italy job) by appointing Marcelo Bielsa, because nothing screams stability like El Loco and Parisian expectations in the same room.

Big shoes to fill all around, but who’s going to step up and actually deliver? Let’s see how long these moves last before the inevitable sacking!

 

[bigmattb28]

The summer transfer window opened with its usual blend of ambition, chaos, and downright nonsense, and it didn’t take long for the first eyebrow raisers to arrive.

Liverpool, clearly in the mood to clear some space and recoup a few pennies waved goodbye to Óscar De Marcos after a thoroughly underwhelming season. He packed his bags for China, joining Quanjian for a staggering €25 million. Yes you read that right. A man who struggled to complete sideways passes at Anfield is now a marquee signing in the Chinese Super League. Somewhere, a Quanjian scout is being asked some very tough questions, probably in Mandarin.

Fred, Manchester United’s ever industrious midfielder (depending on the day), packed his bags for Shanghai Shanggang in a €31 million move. It’s a deal that screams ‘let's make sure our retirement fund has commas’ Manchester United fans might be scratching their heads, wondering how Fred fetched that kind of fee especially after a season where his passing accuracy was… let’s just call it interpretive. But hey, Shanghai clearly saw something they liked. Or maybe they just needed a new midfield enforcer who occasionally forgets which way his team is attacking.

Not to be outdone, the MLS raised its hand in the global arms race of ‘wait, really?’ transfers. Colorado Rapids, long known for altitude and ambition decided it was time to bring in some fireworks. Enter Hulk. No, not the green one, but the Brazilian tank who last season terrorized the defenders in Saudi Arabia. At 33, he’s now a Designated Player and $4 million signing. Reports say he signed the contract using only his biceps.

The big money moves of the summer are starting to roll in and the spending spree has officially gone from bold to ‘are you sure that’s not a typo?’

PSG opened their seemingly never ending war chest and made a splash with the €85 million signing of Victor Osimhen from Wolfsburg. After rattling in 40 goals across 70 games for the Bundesliga side Osimhen now heads to Paris with big expectations and an even bigger price tag.

He'll be joined by Hakim Ziyech, who swapped Juventus and their Serie A title celebrations for the bright lights (and higher wages) of the Parc des Princes in a €50 million move. PSG are clearly assembling a squad that screams ‘we will get past the quarter finals this time. Maybe’

Meanwhile, Monaco decided to get in on the fun too, prising Isco away from Real Madrid for €60 million. The Spanish playmaker, long rumoured to be leaving Madrid anyway, now gets a fresh start in the principality, perfect for anyone who wants football and a yacht lifestyle.

Presnel Kimpembe swapped the Eiffel Tower for the Turin hills, joining Juventus from PSG for €55 million. The Italian giants were clearly after some defensive steel and possibly someone to bring a bit more swagger to the back line. Kimpembe was seen arriving in Italy already practicing his no nonsense stare and dramatic goal line clearances.

But the bigger jaw dropper saw Bernardo Silva, Monaco’s mercurial playmaker, make a sensational switch to Manchester City for a dizzying €135 million. That’s one hundred and thirty five million Euros. Man City clearly saw something they really liked, maybe it was his vision, maybe it was his dribbling, or maybe they just panicked and hit ‘buy now’ without reading the fine print. Monaco’s accountants, meanwhile, are probably still doing cartwheels, while Bernardo touches down in Manchester a **** of a lot richer.

But the biggest head scratcher of all? Real Madrid turning around and spending €121 million on Anthony Martial. Yes, you read that correctly. Martial, who only made 20 appearances for Manchester United last season (though he did score 12 goals), now holds one of the highest price tags in history. Madrid must’ve really liked what they saw, either that or they lost a bet.

 

[bigmattb28]

Staying in England, Tottenham Hotspur made headlines by splashing €59 million on Gabriel Barbosa from Inter Milan. Yep, that Barbosa. Talented? Sure. Clinical? Sometimes. Will he thrive at Spurs? Well early opinions are mixed. Spurs fans are buzzing. Most other teams fans are quietly wondering if this is career suicide in slow motion. Barbosa himself probably smiled at the unveiling while secretly Googling ‘how long is the average Tottenham trophy drought?’


Sticking with Spurs and the theme of potential career suicide, 19 year old Portuguese winger José Lagoa has made the brave, or possibly baffling decision to swap Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy for north London, joining Tottenham for €44 million.

From the beaches of Catalonia to the bus stops of Tottenham. Lagoa was being hailed as ‘the next big thing’, which at Spurs usually means ‘the next big thing to burn out under three managers in two seasons before being loaned to Trabzonspor’ Still €44 million for a teenager with more Instagram followers than first team minutes? That’s peak Spurs. The fans are clinging to hope, the scouts are scratching their heads, and somewhere in a smoky backroom at La Masia, an old coach just muttered ‘he swapped Barça for that?’ Meanwhile, Arsene Wenger is laughing all the way to the bank, sipping his morning espresso and thinking ‘who needs to be a tactical genius when you can just sell player you won’t use to Spurs?’ He’s probably already planning his next ‘discovery’ to offload to Spurs for another £50 million.

Callum Chambers has left Arsenal and joined Benfica for a cool €35 million, which is a bit of a surprise given his Arsenal career had more ups and downs than a rollercoaster at times. But a move to Portugal could be just what he needs to finally find his rhythm. The best bit? He’ll be linking up with newly appointed Benfica captain John Stones. Yes, that’s right, Stones, who has gone from being a meme at City to leading Benfica, a place where they’re now apparently collecting English defenders like they're Pokémon cards. Chambers and Stones together, who’s making a bet on which one misplaces the ball first?

Jack Grealish is on the move again, this time swapping relegated Ipswich Town for Liverpool in a €25 million deal. That’s right, the man who once graced Villa Park has somehow turned himself into football’s most glamorous good luck bad luck charm.

In the past two seasons alone, he left Aston Villa after failing to get promoted from the Championship for Nottingham Forest… who promptly got relegated that season. He then jumped ship to Ipswich… also relegated the same season. Now he’s landed at Liverpool, and Reds fans are nervous. He’s never even sniffed a title challenge or cup run, yet he’s somehow become football’s answer to the grim reaper of relegation. If Liverpool go down next, Grealish might need to start arriving at clubs in disguise.

In another example of Englishmen seeking greener (or at least sunnier) pastures, Joe Hart has left the Premier League behind and signed a permanent deal with Torino for €10 million. It’s not exactly the glamour move he might’ve hoped for a few years ago, but hey, at least he’s back in Italy after his loan spell a couple of season ago, this time with a permanent deal in hand.

Torino fans will be hoping Hart can prove he’s still got the chops to be a reliable number one. Sure, he might not be England’s number one anymore but he's got plenty of experience to offer, and Torino fans are hoping he can show them he's still got it. If nothing else, he can add 'Serie A starter' to his list of achievements—right next to 'England’s number 1' (even if that was a few years ago).

Miggy Almirón has finally escaped the grey skies and eternal drizzle of Middlesbrough, sealing a €22 million move to the much sunnier (and far more glamorous) Marseille. While it might not be the biggest transfer of the summer, it’s a huge blow for Boro, Miggy basically kept them in the Premier League through sheer determination, turbo charged running and a refusal to let the place drag him down. With 12 goals and 9 assists in a team that often looked like it was stuck in second gear and seemingly allergic to attacking football, Marseille might’ve just landed themselves the Premier League’s most cheerful overachiever.

The Lewandowski Curse strikes again! This time, it’s poor Joelinton, who joined Bayern Munich with high hopes from Hoffenhiem but quickly found himself buried in the depths of the bench. With only 2 starts, 6 sub appearances and a modest 3 goals to his name, his time in Bavaria was as brief as it was underwhelming. Now he's off to Wolfsburg on loan to fill the gap left by Osimhen's departure. Here's hoping he gets more than a cameo role this time around

Meanwhile, Christian Pulisic also bids farewell to Bayern joining Manchester United for a cool €121 million, matching the fee they received when they sold Martial to Real Madrid. Clearly Man United's transfer policy is now just a case of ‘if it’s shiny and expensive, we’ll have it’ ike a kid in a sweet shop with an unlimited credit card.

 

[bigmattb28]

Erling Haaland has scored 37 goals in 46 games for Red Bull Salzburg since leaving Liverpool. Impressive? Well, in Austria, maybe not so much, Austria’s top league doesn’t exactly scream ‘elite competition’ But, here’s the kicker - 10 of those goals came in both the Champions League and Europa League, where he really showed his chops. He netted against PSG (twice), Spurs, Anderlecht, Feyenoord, and even Chelsea. Liverpool should be absolutely fuming, they could’ve used a striker with that kind of firepower, especially when he’s over there knocking in goals for fun in European competition and Liverpool are struggling to score more than once a game

Inter Milan publicly stated their interest in Haaland, and, true to form, Haaland played it cool, like the cool kid at school who knows everyone wants him on their team. A mere €22 million later, the deal was done. €22 million! For Haaland! At this point, that’s pocket change. Meanwhile, Real Madrid shelled out a whopping €121 million for Anthony Martial, who scored less than a struggling striker in a Sunday league game. It’s like someone handing out Ferraris for the price of a used bicycle. Inter Milan, on the other hand, just bagged themselves a steal with Haaland at €22 million and Liverpool are probably still trying to figure out how they got it so wrong.

Turning attention to Southampton, who somehow have money to burn despite being about as financially secure as a gambling addict at a casino, Marco Silva left the club in sixth place to take the England job, following in the footsteps of Claude Puel, who pulled the same move last season. Paulo Fonseca, ever the optimist, took over and immediately dropped a ludicrous €135 million bid to Real Madrid for Martin Ødegaard. Of course, Ødegaard chose to stick with La Liga champions rather than slumming it in Europa League Southampton. But at least Southampton can now say they tried because who needs European glory when you can pretend you’re competing with the big boys? It also shows just how far they’ve come, just not in the direction anyone expected

More bad news for Wolfsburg fans as their Norwegian wonderkid, Joakim Onshuus, has just signed for Dortmund for a hefty €52 million. Onshuus, who showcased his skills at the Euros with Norway seems to have decided that sunny Dortmund is more his style. And as for Wolfsburg? Well, it looks like the potential partnership of Onshuus and Joelinton was more of a fleeting dream than a long term plan. With Onshuus now gone, Joelinton is probably going to be leading the charge on his own though that’s not exactly the dream strike force Wolfsburg fans were hoping for. Talk about a lone striker situation.

 

[bigmattb28]

The 2020 Champions League Final saw Manchester City vs Real Madrid. A showdown packed with plot twists, drama, and one very awkward transfer decision.

Kevin De Bruyne, now a Real Madrid player, was forced to watch from the stands with a face that said 'I’ve made a terrible mistake', having already played for City earlier in the competition and thus ineligible. Somewhere in the dugout Thomas Tuchel was probably adjusting his tactical notes with the smug precision of a man who’d just checkmated you in four moves and whispering ‘tactical decision’ to himself, referring to the transfer.

The match itself? Cagey, tense, and goalless until the 82nd minute when Kostas Manolas decided it was the perfect time for a red card. Down to ten men, Real tried to park the bus, but someone had clearly let the tyres down.

In extra time, Marco Verratti calmly slotted home a penalty, proving that short kings can indeed carry empires. Then came the moment Evan James, Canada’s finest export since maple syrup, took centre stage. Two goals in three minutes, both struck with the kind of swagger that said 'Who needs Kevin, eh?'

Verratti added another penalty for good measure, because why not? and Manchester City romped to a 4-0 win, claiming their long awaited Champions League crown. Somewhere, De Bruyne probably started Googling 'can I re-transfer before next season?'

Europa League glory once again belonged to Newcastle, who capped off a sensational season with a 1-0 win over Spurs at Wembley. The Magpies had been in near unstoppable form storming into the final with 16 wins and just two draws from their last 20 matches. Spurs, to their credit, arrived in solid form themselves unbeaten in eight and winning six straight but it wasn’t enough on the night.

Aleksandar Mitrović, ever the talisman, coolly slotted home a 33rd-minute penalty to settle it. That was all it took. Newcastle, already FA Cup winners and Premier League runners-up, sealed back-to-back Europa League titles. From years of stagnation under Mike Ashley to stacking trophies like it’s a hobby, Newcastle’s rise has been nothing short of staggering.

 

[bigmattb28]

Part five - Touchline Ambitions​

Scott Lańkowski stared at the email on his screen, his jaw tightening. Górnik Zabrze had bid €30k for Szymon Sobczak.

The offer wasn’t what made his blood boil,it was the fact that it was the exact amount of his release clause. The bare minimum needed to take him away. No negotiation, no room to push back. If Sobczak wanted to go, Ślęza’s hands were tied.

Scott shoved his chair back and stormed out of his office, heading straight for Marcin’s.

‘Thirty thousand. That’s it? That’s all they have to pay?’

Marcin sighed, already anticipating the reaction ‘we agreed to it when we signed him. He wouldn’t come without it’

Scott ran a hand through his hair, pacing. Sobczak had been crucial last season, his movement, his link-up play, his goals and range of passing. Losing him now, just as Ślęza were preparing to challenge for promotion? It was a gut punch.

A knock at the door cut through the tension. Sobczak himself.

He stepped inside, looking….. uneasy. Not like a man desperate to leave, but one who knew what was coming.

‘Górnik have bid, then?’ he said, his voice measured.

Scott folded his arms ‘yeah. You knew they might. What are you thinking?’

Sobczak hesitated, then exhaled sharply.

‘I wouldn’t and haven’t pushed for a move. I like it here. But now that they’ve bid… it’s the top division, Scott. You know what that means’

Scott knew exactly what it meant. A bigger stage. A chance to prove himself against the best in Poland. The same thing he wanted for all his players, but not yet. Not now.

For a second, Scott considered fighting it, convincing Sobczak to stay, telling him that Ślęza could be in that division soon enough. But he saw the look in his eyes. The decision had already been made.

With a slow nod, Scott sighed.

‘Fine. Go prove yourself. But just know, if we do get promoted, I’m not going to regret letting you go’

Sobczak smiled, a little wistfully ‘If you do, maybe I’ll regret it'

Scott Lańkowski didn’t have time to sulk over Sobczak’s departure. If Ślęza were serious about challenging for promotion, they needed reinforcements, and fast.

Marcin had already been working the phones, and within days, they had their first signing. Kacper Chodyna a talented young winger from Lech Poznań, joining on a season long loan. Quick, direct, and fearless on the pitch, Chodyna was exactly the kind of player who could help fill the gap left by Sobczak.

Scott met him at the training ground the morning after the deal was confirmed.

‘Glad to have you here, Kacper’

‘Glad to be here, coach’ the young winger replied

Scott could tell the kid was eager to prove himself. Lech had told him he wouldn’t be in their first team this season and he had a feeling Chodyna would be playing with a point to prove. That was exactly the kind of hunger Scott wanted in his team. But one winger alone wasn’t enough.

Marcin had pulled off another move, a free transfer for central midfielder Marcin Szymczak.

Szymczak was an interesting one. Twenty three, a bit of a journeyman already, but talented enough to make an impact this season. He’d bounced around lower league clubs, never quite settling, but Scott saw something in him. A calm presence on the ball, someone who could control the tempo.

When Scott called to welcome him, Szymczak got straight to the point.

‘I know I haven’t exactly had the smoothest career so far, but I want to prove I belong. I won’t let you down’


Scott liked that ‘good. Because we’re not here to coast we’re here to compete’

Two new signings in and despite losing Sobczak, Scott felt Ślęza were still in a strong position.

== == == == ==​

Scott Lańkowski had always trusted Blazej Radler.

Since the first day they’d worked together at the club, Radler had been one of his most reliable players, someone who got what Scott wanted from his team, someone who never needed to be second guessed. So when the Head of Youth Development position was mentioned Scott didn’t need to think twice.

He called Radler into his office, sitting back in his chair with a grin.

‘Blazej, I’ve got a new challenge for you’

Radler raised an eyebrow ‘oh yeah? You finally realized I’m too good for just coaching the kids?’

Scott chuckled ‘something like that. Look, I need someone in charge of bringing through the next generation of youngsters. I know you’re coaching the youth team, but I’m talking bigger, overseeing the full set up. I want someone who knows what I want from a player, and can make sure we don’t just rely on signings every year. You in?’

Radler didn’t even hesitate ‘Scott, I’d any job you asked me to do. You know that'

Scott nodded. He did know that. That was the kind of loyalty in football a manager needed

Radler leaned forward ‘I appreciate the opportunity, boss. Seriously if you think I can make a difference, then I’ll give everything to make sure our academy produces players that fit what we’re building here’

Scott extended a hand, and Radler shook it firmly.

‘Then it’s settled. Let’s get to work’

– – – – --

 

[bigmattb28]

Chapter 49​

The opening day of the season was always a test. No matter how much preparation, how many tactics discussed, how many drills run, nothing could fully prepare a team for the real thing.

Scott Lańkowski knew that. But after 90 dominant minutes in Bielsko-Biała, he also knew something else. Ślęza Wrocław meant business.

They wasted no time. Mikołaj Koftas was brought down in the box before the ten minute mark and with ice in his veins, he slammed the penalty past the keeper. 1-0.

Stal barely had time to reorganize before Artur Kwiatkowski pounced. The winger, still technically a Wisła Kraków player but still very much Scott’s man, drilled a low shot into the corner. 2-0 No panic. No hesitation. Ślęza took control again.

Koftas was hacked down in the area again. Another penalty. This time, Leandro stepped up, cool as you like. 3-0

And then, 31 minutes in, Leandro struck again with a clinical finish inside the box, punishing Stal for leaving him unmarked. 4-0

At halftime, Scott didn’t need to say much 'keep playing like that, and we finish this properly’

They did exactly that. Koftas made it 5-0, latching onto a ball over the top and rounding the keeper. Game over.

Scott didn’t celebrate wildly, he never did. But deep down, he knew this was a statement.

Ślęza weren’t here just to compete. They were here to challenge for promotion.

The next game would be a test, not just because Wisła Kraków were a big name, but because of who was waiting for Ślęza Wrocław on the other side.

Hubert Antkowiak for a start.

Scott had seen plenty of his former striker over the last few seasons. First, he left Ślęza for a shot at the top division with Odra Opole. Then, after their immediate relegation, he stuck around, tasked with firing them back up. Instead, they went down again.

And now? Now he had jumped ship to Wisła Kraków, another once proud club now drowning in second division football.

Alongside him? Matty Cash. Another player who had failed to keep Odra afloat despite being the best player in the league.

Scott couldn’t help but think, 'how are these two meant to drag Kraków back up when they couldn’t just not take Odra Opole up but they helped send them down?'

But that wasn’t his problem. His problem was making sure Ślęza were the ones celebrating at full time.

As the final whistle blew, and Scott was fuming. 0-0.

A match that was supposed to be a test, a statement, had turned into ninety minutes of nothing.

Neither side did much, and that was what infuriated him the most. No urgency. No real chances. No spark. It was as if his players had been lulled into the same half-hearted rhythm as Wisła. As if the match couldn't get any worse, Bartosz Jaroszek ensured it did.

With four minutes of normal time left to play, a lazy touch from an inbound pass and then a mistimed lunge, followed by a crunching sound, the kind that makes referees reach for their pockets before the player even hits the ground.

Straight red.

Scott’s hands flew to his head ‘you’ve got to be f*cking kidding me’

Jaroszek didn’t bother protesting the red as he trudged off, head down, knowing exactly what he’d done.

Down to ten men, Ślęza simply held on, but the game had already been a disappointment long before the red card.

In the dressing room, Scott fixed Jaroszek with a sharp look first ‘you’re better than that, a lot better than that. A simple pass to feet and you f*cked it up. You know better than that. You put us under pressure for no reason, fix it the next time I pick you’

No shouting, just expectation. Jaroszek gave a single nod. He knew.

To the rest of the dressing room, he didn’t explode, not yet. Instead, his voice was low, cold, deliberate ‘that sh*t? That wasn’t us. That wasn’t the team that put five past Stal-Bielsko-Biała last week and took it to every team last season. That wasn’t the team that’s supposed to fight for promotion this season. That was just eleven guys, then ten (he shot Jaroszek a look) out there walking with their heads down hoping one of the others would make something happen. And if that’s how we play, then nothing will happen, no promotion, nothing’

Silence. He wasn’t asking. They would do better.

– – – – --​