It's an improvement no doubt but we still aren't going to win the CL with that team are we.
Bernat
Laporte
Pogba
Gundogan
Sane
If we could afford them would give us a greater chance IMO
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The Pep 'Survivor List'
- Thread starter Lovebitesandeveryfing
- Start date
It's an improvement no doubt but we still aren't going to win the CL with that team are we.
Bernat
Laporte
Pogba
Gundogan
Sane
If we could afford them would give us a greater chance IMO
I don't think there will be a mass exodus of players this summer. The Euros will disrupt the transfer market and pre season. Its just not going to be possible to bring in a new bunch of players and get them settled into the club before the season starts. I expect that the starting 11 for the opening PL game will include at least 8 current players.
I did read that when Guardiola took over at Barca some players survived the cull who weren't expcted to eg Samuel Eto'o. It could be that we'll be surprised to find that some of our players are more adaptable than we think.
I did read that when Guardiola took over at Barca some players survived the cull who weren't expcted to eg Samuel Eto'o. It could be that we'll be surprised to find that some of our players are more adaptable than we think.
warringtonblue
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- 7 Nov 2010
- Messages
- 2,219
I hope he signs someone who can take a throw in, at the moment we lose the ball from everyone
I hope he signs someone who can take a throw in, at the moment we lose the ball from everyone
Thought one of the many interesting points in Pep Confidential was when the author was describing the routine training sessions he conducts. Lots of "rondos" but also in every session practising throw in scenarios, especially in opposition half. So maybe it's not about signing someone and more about practice and application.
The Lightbowne Cowboy
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- 17 Nov 2015
- Messages
- 6,760
- Team supported
- City
The Pep survivor list.. Is getting shorter by the game!!
been doing a bit of report of each position in the squads (1st team, EDS, Under 18's) please feel free to correct any mistakes I have made, or anyone I have missed off the list..
Goalkeepers first....
Goalkeepers
Joe Hart - will get his chance, I think he is good enough to go up another level, and under someone like Pep, will get more protection than he is getting now - STAY
Willy Caballero - not quite good enough, despite his cup final heroics, and at an age where he will want to be playing regular first team football, don't think the club will stand in his way if he wants to leave - LEAVE
Richard Wright - not played a game in the 4 seasons he has been here - LEAVE
Young Goalkeepers
Ian Lawlor - having a good loan spell at Bury, think he should take Wright's place in the squad, training with a top class goalkeeper like Hart and another experienced GK and seeing how they prepare for big games etc, would be beneficial to him - PROMOTE TO FIRST TEAM SQUAD
Angus Gunn - the most highly rated out of all the young GK's at the club, and someone who i think Pep will like (can play with the ball at his feet) and just about to turn 20, however, unlike Lawlor hasn't made a first team appearance for anybody yet, was linked with Preston in January and a move like that would be hugely beneficial to him at this stage - playing for a big-ish club in front of decent size crowds. - SEASON LONG LOAN
Billy O'Brien - will be 20 when next season starts, not seen a great deal of him to be honest, but never heard he is destined for the top either - signed a new contract not so long ago and think he has another year to go after this one. any of our resident EDS watchers got an opinion of him?
Charlie Albinson - will be 19 when next season starts, and like O'Brien I haven't seen much of him, seems to be a long way behind Lawlor, Gunn and even the younger Haug and Grimshaw.
Kjetil Haug - 18 this summer, seems to be highly rated and currently ahead of the more talented (in my opinion) Grimshaw in the pecking order. not seen anything in him to think he can be top class, although he does have talent. EDS SQUAD
Daniel Grimshaw - another 18 year old, and a very talented one at that, good with the ball at his feet, good shot stopper and as a bonus a local lad I believe - will stay in the U-18's and EDS Squad this coming season but I think Pep will have his eye on his development. UNDER 18'S SQUAD / EDS SQUAD
Arijanet Muric - just signed in January from Grasshoppers, don't think he has his clearance as yet, little know about him, but got GK of the tournament in a competition our youth team were involved in a couple of years back. UNDER 18'S SQUAD
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
a move for Victor Valdes would make sense, contract up at the end of the season so wouldn't cost anything, someone who Pep knows very well, very experienced and someone who would offer genuine competition to Hart.
Goalkeepers first....
Goalkeepers
Joe Hart - will get his chance, I think he is good enough to go up another level, and under someone like Pep, will get more protection than he is getting now - STAY
Willy Caballero - not quite good enough, despite his cup final heroics, and at an age where he will want to be playing regular first team football, don't think the club will stand in his way if he wants to leave - LEAVE
Richard Wright - not played a game in the 4 seasons he has been here - LEAVE
Young Goalkeepers
Ian Lawlor - having a good loan spell at Bury, think he should take Wright's place in the squad, training with a top class goalkeeper like Hart and another experienced GK and seeing how they prepare for big games etc, would be beneficial to him - PROMOTE TO FIRST TEAM SQUAD
Angus Gunn - the most highly rated out of all the young GK's at the club, and someone who i think Pep will like (can play with the ball at his feet) and just about to turn 20, however, unlike Lawlor hasn't made a first team appearance for anybody yet, was linked with Preston in January and a move like that would be hugely beneficial to him at this stage - playing for a big-ish club in front of decent size crowds. - SEASON LONG LOAN
Billy O'Brien - will be 20 when next season starts, not seen a great deal of him to be honest, but never heard he is destined for the top either - signed a new contract not so long ago and think he has another year to go after this one. any of our resident EDS watchers got an opinion of him?
Charlie Albinson - will be 19 when next season starts, and like O'Brien I haven't seen much of him, seems to be a long way behind Lawlor, Gunn and even the younger Haug and Grimshaw.
Kjetil Haug - 18 this summer, seems to be highly rated and currently ahead of the more talented (in my opinion) Grimshaw in the pecking order. not seen anything in him to think he can be top class, although he does have talent. EDS SQUAD
Daniel Grimshaw - another 18 year old, and a very talented one at that, good with the ball at his feet, good shot stopper and as a bonus a local lad I believe - will stay in the U-18's and EDS Squad this coming season but I think Pep will have his eye on his development. UNDER 18'S SQUAD / EDS SQUAD
Arijanet Muric - just signed in January from Grasshoppers, don't think he has his clearance as yet, little know about him, but got GK of the tournament in a competition our youth team were involved in a couple of years back. UNDER 18'S SQUAD
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
a move for Victor Valdes would make sense, contract up at the end of the season so wouldn't cost anything, someone who Pep knows very well, very experienced and someone who would offer genuine competition to Hart.
Lovebitesandeveryfing
Well-Known Member
I like that. Next instalment, please, GOATER 10…
Defenders Right
Pablo Zabaleta – what can you say about Zaba? Legend, love the guy to bits, a lot of people have said he is finished at the club, but I would keep him – I think Pep will like him, versatile, good defender, good going forward, I think there is something left in the tank yet - STAY
Bacary Sagna – been very good this season, one of our most consistent performers, has another 12 months left on his contract – can play on the right side of a 3 man defence, right back and right wing back - STAY
Young Defenders Right
James Horsfield – will be 20 at the start of the new season, and in all honesty, there are better players who are also younger than him, with his contract up (I think) in the summer I can’t see him being here still - RELEASED
Mathias Bossaerts – for Bossaerts see Horsfield - RELEASED
Sam Tattum – had injury problems coming up to this year, but had a decent season by all accounts, think he has another year on his contract after this one – EDS SQUAD
Pablo Maffeo – the new Zaba, tough, no nonsense defender, good on the ball, good going forward, strong tackler, has the potential to be in the first team squad – think Pep will have a good look at him in pre season, but I think needs a good loan where he is playing week in week out first, before coming back as heir to Zaba’s throne! – SEASON LONG LOAN
Callum Bullock – I like him, good young player. EDS SQUAD
Demeaco Duhaney – will be 17 when next season starts, and has had a very good season for the under 18’s this year, quick, good going forward, versatile (can play right or left) has plenty of time on his side but I think he will be one that Pep has his eyes on – UNDER 18’S SQUAD
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
Realistically, we aren’t going to bring in 8/9 new players this summer. With that in mind I think there are area’s on the pitch that are in more need of reinforcements, the average age of our first team right backs could be better (IMO we should have bought a 21/22 year old when Micah left, but with Maffeo and potentially Denayer coming through, I would see how they get on this year before making any signings (unless a top top class one becomes available – but there aren’t many about!)
Pablo Zabaleta – what can you say about Zaba? Legend, love the guy to bits, a lot of people have said he is finished at the club, but I would keep him – I think Pep will like him, versatile, good defender, good going forward, I think there is something left in the tank yet - STAY
Bacary Sagna – been very good this season, one of our most consistent performers, has another 12 months left on his contract – can play on the right side of a 3 man defence, right back and right wing back - STAY
Young Defenders Right
James Horsfield – will be 20 at the start of the new season, and in all honesty, there are better players who are also younger than him, with his contract up (I think) in the summer I can’t see him being here still - RELEASED
Mathias Bossaerts – for Bossaerts see Horsfield - RELEASED
Sam Tattum – had injury problems coming up to this year, but had a decent season by all accounts, think he has another year on his contract after this one – EDS SQUAD
Pablo Maffeo – the new Zaba, tough, no nonsense defender, good on the ball, good going forward, strong tackler, has the potential to be in the first team squad – think Pep will have a good look at him in pre season, but I think needs a good loan where he is playing week in week out first, before coming back as heir to Zaba’s throne! – SEASON LONG LOAN
Callum Bullock – I like him, good young player. EDS SQUAD
Demeaco Duhaney – will be 17 when next season starts, and has had a very good season for the under 18’s this year, quick, good going forward, versatile (can play right or left) has plenty of time on his side but I think he will be one that Pep has his eyes on – UNDER 18’S SQUAD
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
Realistically, we aren’t going to bring in 8/9 new players this summer. With that in mind I think there are area’s on the pitch that are in more need of reinforcements, the average age of our first team right backs could be better (IMO we should have bought a 21/22 year old when Micah left, but with Maffeo and potentially Denayer coming through, I would see how they get on this year before making any signings (unless a top top class one becomes available – but there aren’t many about!)
citymad
Well-Known Member
I hope he signs someone who can take a throw in, at the moment we lose the ball from everyone
Glad Im not the only one who notices this. Pretty much every time Sagna takes a throw in along the line it goes to the opposition. Its like we can't be bothered to fight for it. Not thats its a huge part of the game but just another example of our lackadaisical attitude.
richards30
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- 20 May 2009
- Messages
- 32,063
Hart
Sagna
Kompany
Otamendi
Clichy
Dinho
De Bruyne
Sterling
Silva
Aguero
Nacho
Delph
All safe in my opinion
Out
Willy
Zab
Mangala
Kolarov
Yaya
Fernando
Navas
Bony
In
Gundogan
Pogba
Xhaka
Laporte
Ox
A new striker
Promote
Angelino
Maffeo
Denayer
Manu Garcia
Sagna
Kompany
Otamendi
Clichy
Dinho
De Bruyne
Sterling
Silva
Aguero
Nacho
Delph
All safe in my opinion
Out
Willy
Zab
Mangala
Kolarov
Yaya
Fernando
Navas
Bony
In
Gundogan
Pogba
Xhaka
Laporte
Ox
A new striker
Promote
Angelino
Maffeo
Denayer
Manu Garcia
Defenders Left
Aleksandar Kolarov – not good enough, hasn’t been for 5 seasons, I don’t believe he is as good going forward as people make out, he has a good left foot on him, I’ll give him that, but doesn’t have anywhere near the level of footballing brain required for a possession based team, probably the most ‘Un Pep’ player we have. Would be staggered if he is still here next season. LEAVE
Gael Clichy – will probably survive this years cull. Probably past his best, but still can do a job for us, fairly dependable defensively, but not top class. Homegrown status helps his cause also. STAY
Young Defenders Left
Ash Smith-Brown – will be 20 when the season starts so is getting to the point where we need to be making decisions on his future, versatile, quick full back who can play right or left, or anywhere in the midfield, to a good level. Would like to see him out on loan next year at a club like Crewe, then re asses this time next year. Suspect he isn’t good enough for us, but he is talented. SEASON LONG LOAN
Angelino – another like Maffeo who could be in Pep’s thoughts next season, although I suspect he will have another season away on loan, great going forward, but not great defensively, but that’s not to say that won’t come, only going to be 19 at the start of next season so has time on his side, and he is what you would call a ‘pep’ player, quick, technically very good and bags of potential. Could see him at say a ‘watford’ type premier league club next year. SEASON LONG LOAN
Erik Sarmiento – signed last season from espanyol, another, like Angelino, who looks very good going forward and a very ‘Pep’ type player. EDS SQUAD
Lewis Blackshaw – not seen too much of him because of the form of Sarmiento and the versatility of Duhaney, but only 17 and in the second year of his scholarship. Will likely get more game time next season. UNDER 18’S SQUAD.
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
If there is any chance, any whatsoever, that we could sign David Alaba, I would be absolutely over the moon, i know he isn’t a “left back” he pretty much plays in every position for Bayern, and if he were to sign would probably do the same for city, the guy is world class, and there aren’t many “left back’s” who fall into that catergory, which is the problem. If he isn’t available… I would be looking at Gaya of Valencia, Alex Sandro of Juventus or Wendell of Levekusen. Or Bayerns other left back Bernat. Personally not convinced about Rodriguez or Jetro Williams.
Aleksandar Kolarov – not good enough, hasn’t been for 5 seasons, I don’t believe he is as good going forward as people make out, he has a good left foot on him, I’ll give him that, but doesn’t have anywhere near the level of footballing brain required for a possession based team, probably the most ‘Un Pep’ player we have. Would be staggered if he is still here next season. LEAVE
Gael Clichy – will probably survive this years cull. Probably past his best, but still can do a job for us, fairly dependable defensively, but not top class. Homegrown status helps his cause also. STAY
Young Defenders Left
Ash Smith-Brown – will be 20 when the season starts so is getting to the point where we need to be making decisions on his future, versatile, quick full back who can play right or left, or anywhere in the midfield, to a good level. Would like to see him out on loan next year at a club like Crewe, then re asses this time next year. Suspect he isn’t good enough for us, but he is talented. SEASON LONG LOAN
Angelino – another like Maffeo who could be in Pep’s thoughts next season, although I suspect he will have another season away on loan, great going forward, but not great defensively, but that’s not to say that won’t come, only going to be 19 at the start of next season so has time on his side, and he is what you would call a ‘pep’ player, quick, technically very good and bags of potential. Could see him at say a ‘watford’ type premier league club next year. SEASON LONG LOAN
Erik Sarmiento – signed last season from espanyol, another, like Angelino, who looks very good going forward and a very ‘Pep’ type player. EDS SQUAD
Lewis Blackshaw – not seen too much of him because of the form of Sarmiento and the versatility of Duhaney, but only 17 and in the second year of his scholarship. Will likely get more game time next season. UNDER 18’S SQUAD.
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
If there is any chance, any whatsoever, that we could sign David Alaba, I would be absolutely over the moon, i know he isn’t a “left back” he pretty much plays in every position for Bayern, and if he were to sign would probably do the same for city, the guy is world class, and there aren’t many “left back’s” who fall into that catergory, which is the problem. If he isn’t available… I would be looking at Gaya of Valencia, Alex Sandro of Juventus or Wendell of Levekusen. Or Bayerns other left back Bernat. Personally not convinced about Rodriguez or Jetro Williams.
Hart
Sagna
Kompany
Otamendi
Clichy
Dinho
De Bruyne
Sterling
Silva
Aguero
Nacho
Delph
All safe in my opinion
Out
Willy
Zab
Mangala
Kolarov
Yaya
Fernando
Navas
Bony
In
Gundogan
Pogba
Xhaka
Laporte
Ox
A new striker
Promote
Angelino
Maffeo
Denayer
Manu Garcia
I think Mangala is safe for now. I think you're right about most of the older players, but surely Pep's going to want to work with all the younger players to see how they respond, and selling him at a big loss is not going to appeal either.
Great stuff!Defenders Left
Aleksandar Kolarov – not good enough, hasn’t been for 5 seasons, I don’t believe he is as good going forward as people make out, he has a good left foot on him, I’ll give him that, but doesn’t have anywhere near the level of footballing brain required for a possession based team, probably the most ‘Un Pep’ player we have. Would be staggered if he is still here next season. LEAVE
Gael Clichy – will probably survive this years cull. Probably past his best, but still can do a job for us, fairly dependable defensively, but not top class. Homegrown status helps his cause also. STAY
Young Defenders Left
Ash Smith-Brown – will be 20 when the season starts so is getting to the point where we need to be making decisions on his future, versatile, quick full back who can play right or left, or anywhere in the midfield, to a good level. Would like to see him out on loan next year at a club like Crewe, then re asses this time next year. Suspect he isn’t good enough for us, but he is talented. SEASON LONG LOAN
Angelino – another like Maffeo who could be in Pep’s thoughts next season, although I suspect he will have another season away on loan, great going forward, but not great defensively, but that’s not to say that won’t come, only going to be 19 at the start of next season so has time on his side, and he is what you would call a ‘pep’ player, quick, technically very good and bags of potential. Could see him at say a ‘watford’ type premier league club next year. SEASON LONG LOAN
Erik Sarmiento – signed last season from espanyol, another, like Angelino, who looks very good going forward and a very ‘Pep’ type player. EDS SQUAD
Lewis Blackshaw – not seen too much of him because of the form of Sarmiento and the versatility of Duhaney, but only 17 and in the second year of his scholarship. Will likely get more game time next season. UNDER 18’S SQUAD.
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
If there is any chance, any whatsoever, that we could sign David Alaba, I would be absolutely over the moon, i know he isn’t a “left back” he pretty much plays in every position for Bayern, and if he were to sign would probably do the same for city, the guy is world class, and there aren’t many “left back’s” who fall into that catergory, which is the problem. If he isn’t available… I would be looking at Gaya of Valencia, Alex Sandro of Juventus or Wendell of Levekusen. Or Bayerns other left back Bernat. Personally not convinced about Rodriguez or Jetro Williams.
The Richard Wright Fan Club
Well-Known Member
i'll try! i'll get another couple of positions done today maybe.
Defenders Centre
Vincent Kompany – for me the best centre half in the world when fit, still only 29, Pep will love him – 100% STAY
Eliaquim Mangala – we aim to win the champions league in the next 3 years, he simply isn’t good enough to take us to that level, Pep isn’t going to wait around for him to start turning in consistent performances, think he would have gone last summer if he it was up to the club - LEAVE
Martin Demichelis – we have had a good 3 years out of Demi, and he will go down as a bit of a cult hero, but in all honestly, his time has gone. RELEASED
Nicolas Otamendi – a rash, reckless, lunatic of a centre half, who is on his backside far too much for my liking, but..............
..........There is a defender in there, and if Pep can teach him to stay on his feet and not be a rash, reckless, lunatic of a centre half we might have a top player on our hands. One thing for sure is that Pep will not tolerate him if he doesn’t change the way he is. Be interesting to watch him next year under a manager who knows how to organise a defence. STAY
Young Defenders Centre
Jason Denayer – one who I am genuinely excited to watch in the next few years under Pep. calm, composed, technically very good central defender who could also have a future as a right back. His potential is limitless I just hope he doesn’t kick off if we bring another new defender in this summer. PROMOTE TO FIRST TEAM SQUAD.
Shay Facey – I was surprised he signed a new contract recently, as I don’t see him having any future with the club, think he will make a good championship level defender, either as a right back or a centre back, but for me, short of the required ability to make it with us and at 21 its probably the right time to move on in the summer. LEAVE
Ellis Plummer – will also be 21 when the new season starts and will more than likely not be here as his contract is up. Again, short of the required ability and there are younger players coming through who are simply better. RELEASE
Tosin Adarabioyoyo – Tosin will be 18 when the season starts and has already impressed in his recent first team debut, he is another one who Pep will be looking to get in and around the first team squad as soon as he can and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him make a handful of first team appearances next season, his potential is limitless and he can go all the way to the top – EDS SQUAD
Cameron Humphreys – he will only turn 18 in August, and already been in and around the first team squad since last pre season, another who could be anything he wants to be in the game, needs to listen to Pep and his team and learn from the likes of Kompany. Definitely one for the future. EDS SQUAD
Charlie Oliver – Good solid defender, will be 18 when the season starts, represented England at youth level and has a bright future. EDS SQUAD
Joe Coveney – haven’t seen an awful lot of him if I am being honest, but he is 17 and will more than likely stay with the under 18’s squad for next season. UNDER 18’S SQUAD
Ash Kigbu – we are blessed that we have a lot of talented young defenders in the squad and Kigbu is another off the production line, big beast of a defender who is very highly rated by the youth coaches. Likely to start off with the under 18’s but will end up in the EDS squad next season. One to keep an eye on. UNDER 18’S SQUAD / EDS SQUAD.
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
John Stones has been talked about a lot, and if he is going to leave Everton this summer, we HAVE to be involved. He is 21 and the next great English defender, he will make mistakes but by the time he is 25 will be one of the worlds best defenders. If it was my choice I would leave him at Everton another 12 months to develop, but if other clubs are involved (Utd, Chelsea, Barca all interested) we have to be in for him.
Aymeric Laporte would be the one I go for this summer, again he is 21, great on the ball, quick, strong in the tackle and a very clever player – left footed as well. Pep will love him and I can see him & Kompany complementing each other superbly, my dream would be to get him this summer and then Stones next, we would be set for the next 10 years with those 2 and some of the other young centre backs on this list.
Other central defenders who I would keep my eye on would be :
Jonathan Tah (Levekusen) – you could be watching a 19 year old Vincent Kompany, Pep supposibly wanted to bring him to Bayern recently as well.
Jose Gimenez (Athletico Madrid) – tough, versatile, ball playing centre half, not the biggest, reminds me a little of Mascherano the way he plays.
Vincent Kompany – for me the best centre half in the world when fit, still only 29, Pep will love him – 100% STAY
Eliaquim Mangala – we aim to win the champions league in the next 3 years, he simply isn’t good enough to take us to that level, Pep isn’t going to wait around for him to start turning in consistent performances, think he would have gone last summer if he it was up to the club - LEAVE
Martin Demichelis – we have had a good 3 years out of Demi, and he will go down as a bit of a cult hero, but in all honestly, his time has gone. RELEASED
Nicolas Otamendi – a rash, reckless, lunatic of a centre half, who is on his backside far too much for my liking, but..............
..........There is a defender in there, and if Pep can teach him to stay on his feet and not be a rash, reckless, lunatic of a centre half we might have a top player on our hands. One thing for sure is that Pep will not tolerate him if he doesn’t change the way he is. Be interesting to watch him next year under a manager who knows how to organise a defence. STAY
Young Defenders Centre
Jason Denayer – one who I am genuinely excited to watch in the next few years under Pep. calm, composed, technically very good central defender who could also have a future as a right back. His potential is limitless I just hope he doesn’t kick off if we bring another new defender in this summer. PROMOTE TO FIRST TEAM SQUAD.
Shay Facey – I was surprised he signed a new contract recently, as I don’t see him having any future with the club, think he will make a good championship level defender, either as a right back or a centre back, but for me, short of the required ability to make it with us and at 21 its probably the right time to move on in the summer. LEAVE
Ellis Plummer – will also be 21 when the new season starts and will more than likely not be here as his contract is up. Again, short of the required ability and there are younger players coming through who are simply better. RELEASE
Tosin Adarabioyoyo – Tosin will be 18 when the season starts and has already impressed in his recent first team debut, he is another one who Pep will be looking to get in and around the first team squad as soon as he can and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him make a handful of first team appearances next season, his potential is limitless and he can go all the way to the top – EDS SQUAD
Cameron Humphreys – he will only turn 18 in August, and already been in and around the first team squad since last pre season, another who could be anything he wants to be in the game, needs to listen to Pep and his team and learn from the likes of Kompany. Definitely one for the future. EDS SQUAD
Charlie Oliver – Good solid defender, will be 18 when the season starts, represented England at youth level and has a bright future. EDS SQUAD
Joe Coveney – haven’t seen an awful lot of him if I am being honest, but he is 17 and will more than likely stay with the under 18’s squad for next season. UNDER 18’S SQUAD
Ash Kigbu – we are blessed that we have a lot of talented young defenders in the squad and Kigbu is another off the production line, big beast of a defender who is very highly rated by the youth coaches. Likely to start off with the under 18’s but will end up in the EDS squad next season. One to keep an eye on. UNDER 18’S SQUAD / EDS SQUAD.
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
John Stones has been talked about a lot, and if he is going to leave Everton this summer, we HAVE to be involved. He is 21 and the next great English defender, he will make mistakes but by the time he is 25 will be one of the worlds best defenders. If it was my choice I would leave him at Everton another 12 months to develop, but if other clubs are involved (Utd, Chelsea, Barca all interested) we have to be in for him.
Aymeric Laporte would be the one I go for this summer, again he is 21, great on the ball, quick, strong in the tackle and a very clever player – left footed as well. Pep will love him and I can see him & Kompany complementing each other superbly, my dream would be to get him this summer and then Stones next, we would be set for the next 10 years with those 2 and some of the other young centre backs on this list.
Other central defenders who I would keep my eye on would be :
Jonathan Tah (Levekusen) – you could be watching a 19 year old Vincent Kompany, Pep supposibly wanted to bring him to Bayern recently as well.
Jose Gimenez (Athletico Madrid) – tough, versatile, ball playing centre half, not the biggest, reminds me a little of Mascherano the way he plays.
Father Paul
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- 18 Jun 2015
- Messages
- 5,259
Well done Goat excellent workDefenders Centre
Vincent Kompany – for me the best centre half in the world when fit, still only 29, Pep will love him – 100% STAY
Eliaquim Mangala – we aim to win the champions league in the next 3 years, he simply isn’t good enough to take us to that level, Pep isn’t going to wait around for him to start turning in consistent performances, think he would have gone last summer if he it was up to the club - LEAVE
Martin Demichelis – we have had a good 3 years out of Demi, and he will go down as a bit of a cult hero, but in all honestly, his time has gone. RELEASED
Nicolas Otamendi – a rash, reckless, lunatic of a centre half, who is on his backside far too much for my liking, but..............
..........There is a defender in there, and if Pep can teach him to stay on his feet and not be a rash, reckless, lunatic of a centre half we might have a top player on our hands. One thing for sure is that Pep will not tolerate him if he doesn’t change the way he is. Be interesting to watch him next year under a manager who knows how to organise a defence. STAY
Young Defenders Centre
Jason Denayer – one who I am genuinely excited to watch in the next few years under Pep. calm, composed, technically very good central defender who could also have a future as a right back. His potential is limitless I just hope he doesn’t kick off if we bring another new defender in this summer. PROMOTE TO FIRST TEAM SQUAD.
Shay Facey – I was surprised he signed a new contract recently, as I don’t see him having any future with the club, think he will make a good championship level defender, either as a right back or a centre back, but for me, short of the required ability to make it with us and at 21 its probably the right time to move on in the summer. LEAVE
Ellis Plummer – will also be 21 when the new season starts and will more than likely not be here as his contract is up. Again, short of the required ability and there are younger players coming through who are simply better. RELEASE
Tosin Adarabioyoyo – Tosin will be 18 when the season starts and has already impressed in his recent first team debut, he is another one who Pep will be looking to get in and around the first team squad as soon as he can and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him make a handful of first team appearances next season, his potential is limitless and he can go all the way to the top – EDS SQUAD
Cameron Humphreys – he will only turn 18 in August, and already been in and around the first team squad since last pre season, another who could be anything he wants to be in the game, needs to listen to Pep and his team and learn from the likes of Kompany. Definitely one for the future. EDS SQUAD
Charlie Oliver – Good solid defender, will be 18 when the season starts, represented England at youth level and has a bright future. EDS SQUAD
Joe Coveney – haven’t seen an awful lot of him if I am being honest, but he is 17 and will more than likely stay with the under 18’s squad for next season. UNDER 18’S SQUAD
Ash Kigbu – we are blessed that we have a lot of talented young defenders in the squad and Kigbu is another off the production line, big beast of a defender who is very highly rated by the youth coaches. Likely to start off with the under 18’s but will end up in the EDS squad next season. One to keep an eye on. UNDER 18’S SQUAD / EDS SQUAD.
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
John Stones has been talked about a lot, and if he is going to leave Everton this summer, we HAVE to be involved. He is 21 and the next great English defender, he will make mistakes but by the time he is 25 will be one of the worlds best defenders. If it was my choice I would leave him at Everton another 12 months to develop, but if other clubs are involved (Utd, Chelsea, Barca all interested) we have to be in for him.
Aymeric Laporte would be the one I go for this summer, again he is 21, great on the ball, quick, strong in the tackle and a very clever player – left footed as well. Pep will love him and I can see him & Kompany complementing each other superbly, my dream would be to get him this summer and then Stones next, we would be set for the next 10 years with those 2 and some of the other young centre backs on this list.
Other central defenders who I would keep my eye on would be :
Jonathan Tah (Levekusen) – you could be watching a 19 year old Vincent Kompany, Pep supposibly wanted to bring him to Bayern recently as well.
Jose Gimenez (Athletico Madrid) – tough, versatile, ball playing centre half, not the biggest, reminds me a little of Mascherano the way he plays.
CENTRAL MIDFIELDERS
Fernando – not good enough to be in a top European side, wouldn’t get anywhere near Barcelona, Bayern or Madrid’s team, and that is the level we are competing to up against in the next couple of years. LEAVE
Fabian Delph – he has surprised me this season, I thought he was a run of the mill English midfielder who we only actually signed because he was home grown, but he is actually a good footballer, not top class, but good. Good energy, decent passing ability, versatile. I think if he can keep himself fit, he is a player who Pep will like very much and will make a very good squad player. STAY
Fernandinho – I think Pep will love Fernan, we know he has got good ability, great engine, versatile, consistent. I can see Pep trying him in several positions, CM, RM, RWB. STAY
Yaya Toure – ah Yaya, what will happen with him? I really have no idea, some days I think he should leave, others its clear he can still do a job for us. Pep knows him, didn’t want him to leave Barca by all accounts, but at 34 his best days are gone, could he play in a different role for us then we are used to? Possibly. If he leaves, he leaves a legend, if he stays he must get used to being more of a squad player. UNDECIDED
Young Central Midfielders
Bruno Zuculini – simply not good enough - LEAVE
George Glendon – 21 when next season starts, and needs to move on to progress his career, very surprised a club like Oldham haven’t taken a chance on him as I believe he will be a very good lower league player. LEAVE
Seko Fofana – out on loan in his native France at Bastia at the moment, and having a decent season by all accounts, wouldn’t expect him to make the grade at city now though and like Glendon is at the age where he needs to be at a club he is going to be playing regularly. Think we will see him again at some point in the premier league as he does have a lot of talent. LEAVE
Jack Byrne – having a very good season in Holland, and a player Pep will like the look of, always looking to get on the ball and doesn’t shirk any responsibility. Good passing range, solid defensively, think we will see him with the first team in pre season and go from there, wouldn’t be surprised to see him at a ‘Bolton or Sheff Utd’ on a season long loan next year. One to keep an eye on. SEASON LONG LOAN
Kean Bryan – a player I like a lot, and is highly rated by the club, struggled with injuries this season again, maybe a change of scenery would do him the world of good? A move to New York to team up with Paddy for a few months wouldn’t be the worst idea in the world, the club needs to work out his best position also as he has played CM and CB, LOAN TO NEW YORK CITY
Aleix Garcia – made his first team debut at Chelsea and impressed, looks a very tidy player, good ball retention skills, solid defensively, think Pep will like him and get him involved next season, he looks the most ‘ready’ out of all the central midfielders on this list. EDS SQUAD WITH A HANDFUL OF FIRST TEAM APPEARANCES
Marcus Wood – another local lad who has impressed me each time I have seen him this season, whether it being LB or CM. only going to be 18 when next season starts so will be with the EDS. EDS SQUAD
Rodney Kongolo – signed from Feyenoord in summer 2014, failed to make much of an impact in his first season, but this season has been a stark contract, he has been very very good, more involved in everything, looking to control games, reminds me of a young Patrick Vieira. One to watch. EDS SQUAD
Jacob Davenport – will be 17 at the start of next season and has had a great first season as a scholar, little terrier in central midfield, but also a very very good footballer, tidy in possession and never shirks a challenge, I think he will break into the EDS squad before long. UNDER 18’S SQUAD / EDS SQUAD
Will Patching – another 17 year old and local lad, one of the most talented players in the youth set up, a very natural footballer, I have heard the comparison to a young Michael Johnson and I don’t think it is inaccurate, glides around the pitch and has great technique, would like to see him grabbing games by the scruff of the neck, but that will come with time. will be in the EDS Squad soon. UNDER 18’S SQUAD / EDS SQUAD
Aaron O’Driscoll – 17 year old Ireland youth international, struggled with injuries for most of this season, so haven’t seen too much of him. UNDER 18’S SQUAD.
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
Obviously much has been discussed about this position in terms of transfers, and I am not going to suggest anyone who we are not already aware about, I think we will be looking to get 2 central midfielders in, to build the team around
Paul Pogba – Paul Pogba now is better than Yaya was at the same age, its going to cost us a lot of money to buy him, but he will be worth every penny, simply world class and going to get better, one of the next world superstars and we can build our team around him for the next 10 years. Already said he wants to work with Pep so for me it’s a no brainer.
Ilkay Gundogan – this one looks like it could well be happening, talks already appearing under way. Top class player, would become the heartbeat of our side under Pep, controlling the tempo of the game, think Xavi in Guardiola’s Barca. Seems to be over his injury problems and another who seems to want to work with Pep, at 25 is just coming into his peak.
Fernando – not good enough to be in a top European side, wouldn’t get anywhere near Barcelona, Bayern or Madrid’s team, and that is the level we are competing to up against in the next couple of years. LEAVE
Fabian Delph – he has surprised me this season, I thought he was a run of the mill English midfielder who we only actually signed because he was home grown, but he is actually a good footballer, not top class, but good. Good energy, decent passing ability, versatile. I think if he can keep himself fit, he is a player who Pep will like very much and will make a very good squad player. STAY
Fernandinho – I think Pep will love Fernan, we know he has got good ability, great engine, versatile, consistent. I can see Pep trying him in several positions, CM, RM, RWB. STAY
Yaya Toure – ah Yaya, what will happen with him? I really have no idea, some days I think he should leave, others its clear he can still do a job for us. Pep knows him, didn’t want him to leave Barca by all accounts, but at 34 his best days are gone, could he play in a different role for us then we are used to? Possibly. If he leaves, he leaves a legend, if he stays he must get used to being more of a squad player. UNDECIDED
Young Central Midfielders
Bruno Zuculini – simply not good enough - LEAVE
George Glendon – 21 when next season starts, and needs to move on to progress his career, very surprised a club like Oldham haven’t taken a chance on him as I believe he will be a very good lower league player. LEAVE
Seko Fofana – out on loan in his native France at Bastia at the moment, and having a decent season by all accounts, wouldn’t expect him to make the grade at city now though and like Glendon is at the age where he needs to be at a club he is going to be playing regularly. Think we will see him again at some point in the premier league as he does have a lot of talent. LEAVE
Jack Byrne – having a very good season in Holland, and a player Pep will like the look of, always looking to get on the ball and doesn’t shirk any responsibility. Good passing range, solid defensively, think we will see him with the first team in pre season and go from there, wouldn’t be surprised to see him at a ‘Bolton or Sheff Utd’ on a season long loan next year. One to keep an eye on. SEASON LONG LOAN
Kean Bryan – a player I like a lot, and is highly rated by the club, struggled with injuries this season again, maybe a change of scenery would do him the world of good? A move to New York to team up with Paddy for a few months wouldn’t be the worst idea in the world, the club needs to work out his best position also as he has played CM and CB, LOAN TO NEW YORK CITY
Aleix Garcia – made his first team debut at Chelsea and impressed, looks a very tidy player, good ball retention skills, solid defensively, think Pep will like him and get him involved next season, he looks the most ‘ready’ out of all the central midfielders on this list. EDS SQUAD WITH A HANDFUL OF FIRST TEAM APPEARANCES
Marcus Wood – another local lad who has impressed me each time I have seen him this season, whether it being LB or CM. only going to be 18 when next season starts so will be with the EDS. EDS SQUAD
Rodney Kongolo – signed from Feyenoord in summer 2014, failed to make much of an impact in his first season, but this season has been a stark contract, he has been very very good, more involved in everything, looking to control games, reminds me of a young Patrick Vieira. One to watch. EDS SQUAD
Jacob Davenport – will be 17 at the start of next season and has had a great first season as a scholar, little terrier in central midfield, but also a very very good footballer, tidy in possession and never shirks a challenge, I think he will break into the EDS squad before long. UNDER 18’S SQUAD / EDS SQUAD
Will Patching – another 17 year old and local lad, one of the most talented players in the youth set up, a very natural footballer, I have heard the comparison to a young Michael Johnson and I don’t think it is inaccurate, glides around the pitch and has great technique, would like to see him grabbing games by the scruff of the neck, but that will come with time. will be in the EDS Squad soon. UNDER 18’S SQUAD / EDS SQUAD
Aaron O’Driscoll – 17 year old Ireland youth international, struggled with injuries for most of this season, so haven’t seen too much of him. UNDER 18’S SQUAD.
POTENTIAL TRANSFER TARGETS
Obviously much has been discussed about this position in terms of transfers, and I am not going to suggest anyone who we are not already aware about, I think we will be looking to get 2 central midfielders in, to build the team around
Paul Pogba – Paul Pogba now is better than Yaya was at the same age, its going to cost us a lot of money to buy him, but he will be worth every penny, simply world class and going to get better, one of the next world superstars and we can build our team around him for the next 10 years. Already said he wants to work with Pep so for me it’s a no brainer.
Ilkay Gundogan – this one looks like it could well be happening, talks already appearing under way. Top class player, would become the heartbeat of our side under Pep, controlling the tempo of the game, think Xavi in Guardiola’s Barca. Seems to be over his injury problems and another who seems to want to work with Pep, at 25 is just coming into his peak.