Cultured Football #154
The Pain Game
By Tom Reed for Terrace Edition
The dream of an independent football regulator moved a step closer this week. Far too late for the many clubs who have - or are - suffering at the hands of bad owners. But a step in the right direction.
A Black Hole in Liverpool
By for
The topsy-turvy defeat at Manchester United somewhat burst Liverpool’s bubble and killed the dream of Jurgen Klopp’s last game in England being at Wembley. As inevitably seems to happen these days, many online went looking for a scape-goat with Cody Gakpo ending up being the resulting target. Yet, whilst many went down this path because they are racist and / or stupid, there is a basis to the frustration with the Dutch striker. Indeed, data seems to suggest that Gakpo seems to be a striker who has enough good moments that his not-so-good ones are overlooked, especially in a team that is winning a lot.
NXGN 2024: The 50 best wonderkids in football
By Tom Maston and Simone Gambino for Goal
This is always a popular read (and one that I look forward to). Each year Goal picks the best young players on the planet which this time round features players who are due to turn 19 at some point during the year. Interestingly, four of the top ten have already been subject to multi-million pound transfers.
Bonus Pick: Here’s a similar list but featuring the most promising players in the women’s game.
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Ex-Premier League star lifts lid on football's staggering £1bn bankruptcy crisis
By Alan Smith for the Mirror
“An estimated 40% of footballers are at risk of bankruptcy within five years of retirement.” Quite simply a shocking statistic. And, before people jump to conclusion, it isn’t always their - or their childish antics’ - fault. A sobering read on the schemes through which they end up losing their money with cryptocurrencies replacing what films schemes used to do in the past.
Vasco Seabra interview: Estoril coach on cup finals, coaching Diogo Jota and why Jose Mourinho remains an inspiration
By Adam Bate for Sky Sports
Vasco Seabra is not a manager who is being linked with any of the high profile vacancies that are opening up this summer. But the coach who took Estoril out of the relegation zone and into their first final in 80 years will probably not be as unheralded as he is for much longer.
Every Saturday, Cultured Football brings you five great football articles you will enjoy reading.
Last Week’s Most Read: Squad Depth and 'Bench Players': Contribution and Strategy
By Alex Stewart for Analytics FC
With clubs now able to field five substitutes, it is somewhat unsurprising that reserves - and the ability to put bring on fresh energy when others are faltering - have become increasing important. Something that is perhaps is overlooked is who clubs turn to when they need to change up something from the bench. And whilst many opt for the more experienced members when bringing on subs, it is not clear cut that this is the best option.