A frustrating Frenchman

Hull manager Steve Bruce has said that on loan French winger Hatem Ben Arfa has played his last game for the club. Not welcomed at parent club Newcastle following several bust ups with manager Alan Pardew, Ben Arfa currently finds himself in a club limbo, becoming a free agent in the summer.

Just 4 months into his loan at the KC stadium and Bruce has called time on his brief spell. Bruce gave his damning verdict and said: "He won't be coming back here, that's all I can say. I'm disappointed more than anything." 

"We brought him in on a wave of publicity and there has been no fall-out or slanging match. His views of the game are different to mine. At any club you need to have a certain work ethic to get in the team. That's the frustrating thing. 

"I hope Hatem takes in what I've had to say to him because his talent is there for all to see. But talent without hard work means you won't live up to your potential."  

Ben Arfa's loan spell has ended terribly

A player once labelled a French prodigy, Ben Arfa's career has never truly lived up to the expectations that many had of him. In the early days of his career at Lyon, he had many top European suitors and his talent was clear to see. 

When he arrived at England, it was considered a coup by Newcastle with many stunned that the Tyneside club had pulled off a loan move for the Frenchman. Arriving after a sour ending with Marseille despite winning a Ligue 1 title, Ben Arfa's debut season in England was promising as he showcased his talent, prompting Newcastle to make it a permanent deal.

However, Ben Arfa suffered a leg break the season after. After a long recovery, Ben Arfa only showed glimpses of the talent we had previously seen. .Ben Arfa going forward is a real threat but, defensively he is lethargic and poor. Often seen casually strolling around the pitch, Ben Arfa is often a target for the boo boys in the terraces.

Off the pitch, Ben Arfa has been described as "difficult," having had a number of bust ups with team mates and staff. His lack of discipline has given the impression to many that he cares more for night life than he does for putting the hours in on the training ground.

Ben Arfa rarely shows what he is capable of doing

A loan move to Hull looked like a deal that could have been a real success for Ben Arfa. A fresh start, away from the previous broken relationships at Newcastle where he was demoted to the reserves. Ben Arfa had the chance to get his head down and get back to the Ben Arfa of many years ago.

However, it just hasen't happened, so much so Bruce wants to call time on his stay at the club. Ben Arfa has squandered a golden opportunity to put himself in the shop window for potential suitors come the summer when he leaves Newcastle on a Bosman.

Both Ben Arfa and Karim Benzema had the same footballing nurturing, having came out of the Lyon academy and played together in the French youth national teams but, could not contrast in their careers much more.

Some still have hope that Ben Arfa, at age 27, could finally find a club where he properly integrates himself into the side. The winger needs to realise he is part of a team rather than an individual. Ben Arfa's career is a frustrating one, a tale of missed opportunities and bust ups. Fans of the tricky Frenchman will hope the frustration will come to an end with his next career move.

Tactics dossier: Further Fabregas?

Although still early in season, it wouldn't be premature to think that the Premier League title could be heading to Stamford Bridge. Having made two blockbuster signings in Cesc Fabregas and Diego Costa, Mourinho has added a new dimension to a already strong Chelsea side. Suggestions are rife that this squad could replicate the feats of Arsenal's "Invincibles" with the side yet to lose in the league however, are not impenetrable.

Chelsea do concede goals, having let in eleven in thirteen games. Defensively, Chelsea look sound with arguably one of the best keepers in Europe between the sticks in Thibaut Courtios which has even seen the number one of last decade Petr Cech relegated to the bench. Mourinho's first choice back four of Branislav Ivanovic, Gary Cahill, John Terry and Cesar Azpilicueta are well structured and hard to break down too. 

So how is it Chelsea still concede goals? In Mourinho's 4-2-3-1 formation, the Portuguese manager demands every player works hard during defensive passages of play, with everyone tracking a man and their runs. It is a philosophy that is well drilled and organised throughout the team however, it does not suit certain players.  

Every player is required to contribute to defensive moves

Nemanja Matic in front of the back four in the midfield two next to Fabregas has been a unsung hero, often winning the ball and breaking down play only to lay it off to the more creative team mates who make the headlines. It is the Serbian who during attacking moves sits in and allows his more creative midfield partner Fabregas to advance forward and join the attack. 

Arguably Chelsea's best player this year after Diego Costa, Cesc Fabregas has been a real hit with the Blues. His vision and pin point passing often carves open defences and it is unlikely Costa would have so many goals if it was not for Fabregas feeding him. In thirteen Premier League games Fabregas has 10 assists, a record at this point in the season and is well on his way to breaking Thierry Henry's record of twenty assists in one season.   

However, despite his stand out performances it is become clear that Cesc Fabregas is defensively frail. During counter attacks Fabregas is often out of position, more attracted to the ball rather than picking up his man. It seems as if he lacks the stamina and positional sense that Matic has to consistently track and mark men when Chelsea don't have the ball. Fabregas sitting in front of the defence when Chelsea are defending seems to be the Achilles heel in a team that lacks any real weakness.  

Fabregas has two goals to his name for Chelsea

At Anfield, Emre Can twice broke through midfield and eventually punished Chelsea scoring the opener for Liverool, with Fabregas at fault as he let the German drive through midfield. In the Blues' most recent fixture away at Sunderland, towards the end of the match Sunderland were breaking through midfield as Fabregas trailed behind. There is no way the returning Mourinho could ever drop a player of Fabregas' calibre, so what would be a remedy to the situation? 

Could swapping Oscar with Fabregas, putting the Spaniard in the number 10 position behind the striker help the situation? Oscar looks more suited to the central midfield role than Fabregas defensively as his work rate is one of the best in the side and even for a number 10, the Brazilian is a top tackler with his terrier-like hustling of opposition players. In 2012-2013, he was Chelsea's 3rd top tackler and won more than his attacking team-mates combined. 

It was that season, when Rafa Benitez was briefly in charge the rumours were that on the training ground the now Napoli manager was trying to mould Oscar into a central midfielder, making the Brazilian international pay close attention to Frank Lampard. There is no doubting that Oscar has the capability to play in the central role as he has all the necessary skills to succeed there.  

Fabregas represented Spain at the world cup this year

Playing Fabregas further forward and closer to Diego Costa could also improve the chemistry these two have shown in the early season. Fabregas would be allowed to get space and feed Costa and wingers like Eden Hazard, Willian and Andre Schurrle with the sort of through balls their pace thrives on. Although the ex-Barcelona man will still have defensive duties, there would be another line of defensive before an opposition attacking move reached the likes of Terry and Cahill. 

However, in doing so there are a number of cons. Moving Fabregas further forward could see the side lack a player that can dictate the play in the middle of the park. Not only that, but by moving him in the number 10 role it would restrict him to playing shorter more intricate passes rather than the long and switching balls that have had such success this year.  

Oscar has been in fine form this year for Chelsea

Fabregas' best quality is no doubt his range of passing and to utilise this to it's fullest extent he would be best played in the central midfield role next to Matic. However, this has been proven to be penetrable. It could also be argued that Oscar, a player who arrived from Internacional as a winger, is more suited to the number 10 role than Fabregas as he is better with the ball at his feet. 

It truly is a conundrum tactically. Does Mourinho sacrifice his star midfield man for defensive reassurance and play him further forward, swapping him for a player that although untested competitively in the central midfield role has the necessary skills to succeed? It is food for thought for Blues fans!    

Wheelchair for Wilshere

Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has been ruled out for 3 months following ankle surgery on a injury he picked up in the Gunners' clash with Manchester United. The setback could not come at a worse time for Wilshere, a man who was enjoying a purple patch of form for club and country.

However, the physio room has become a home away from home for the twenty-two year old who during his short career since making his debut in 2008 has spent a hundred and ninety weeks on the treatment table.

Almost every time Wilshere goes down in a heap on the floor fans have the immediate reaction that the fragile ankles of the midfielder may once again have buckled.  Although clearly a top English talent, many wonder do the consistent injuries pose a risk to the potential Wilshere has?

Wilshere has one goal in nine this Premier League campaign

The England international is also a player a player that is either under criticism or enjoying a streak of hot form. At the start of the season, Wilshere was public enemy number one following pictures of him smoking (not the first time either) on holiday leaving many doubting Wilshere was truly committed to his profession and even had some suggesting his attitude would hold him back from unlocking his true potential.

A slow start in terms of personal performance had many believing Wilshere was never going to reach the heights people had expected and even saw icon Paul Scholes deliver a venomous verdict. Scholes said:  "Jack Wilshere, he came on the scene and what a top player he looked, but he’s never really gone on. He needs people like Vieira to take him to the next level. His development, he doesn’t look any better now than he did at 17." 

However, it was not long before he had many of critics eating their own words as he put in stellar performances for England and Arsenal. Wilshere is a fine example of how fickle the footballing world can be and it was not long before Scholes took back his statement and suggested Wilshere was currently England's best player and based on those performances was a fair analysis.   

That infamous picture

The Arsenal academy product is a player more than capable of playing intricate and beautiful short passing but also possess the rugged drive to dribble the ball at players and get stuck in defensively. If injuries were to hinder his career progressing it would be a huge blow to the Gunners' faithful who have watched Wilshere develop from a promising teen into a mature first team player. 

A fan favourite, Wilshere will be looking to get off the treatment table as soon as possible and get right back to playing. If history is doomed to repeat itself, Wilshere will return too soon and pick up another frustrating injury that could further set him back. The twenty-two year old will need time to get back into the swing of things following surgery and many will be hoping that after this setback Wilshere will begin to put his plague of injuries behind him. Should it be Jack Wilshere or Jack Wheelchair? Only time will tell! 

The Danny Debate

"He was not a line-up player; he was more substitute than line-up." This was Louis Van Gaal's critical summary of Danny Welbeck's previous squad status at Manchester United. Danny Welbeck joined rivals Arsenal in the summer for a fee of £16m and sparked a major debate in England. Was Van Gaal spot on with his views or was selling a mistake?

Van Gaal has opted to spend big in an attempt to get instant success, something that is much needed following the previous season of disappointment. In doing so, Van Gaal saw it necessary to sell Welbeck and gamble on the fitness of hired gun Radamel Falcao.  

A player with unquestionable ability following his years in Europe tormenting defences, the Columbian has fitness doubts following a serious knee injury in January that robbed him of a world cup campaign and huge wage demands following his arrival from billionaire backed Monaco, who were recently ordered to pay £50m in an attempt to coincide with French tax laws and remain in Ligue 1. 

But, to accommodate such a house hold name, Manchester United found themselves with more strikers than sense, with Wayne Rooney, Robin Van Persie, Jamie Wilson and soon loaned Javier Hernandez all vying for a spot. Welbeck was deemed the lesser of the bunch and was sufficiently sacrificed. Van Gaal's policy to develop youth has seen Jamie Wilson feature in the side this year.

A Welbeck hatrick sunk Galatasaray in the UCL 

The sale brought a mixed reaction. Many fans questioned why the club had put in so much effort to coach and create a player of Welbeck's quality if they are to ultimately sell them to aid rivals in what many pundits believed was a cut-price fee. Fans had watched the Englishman develop from a clumsy, gangly and frustrating forward into a striker that was considered a important player to Sir Alex Ferguson and a fully fledged international. 

It makes you wonder, would Sir Alex Ferguson have sold Danny Welbeck? The answer is no. In charge for 25 years, Ferguson avoided selling big stars to rivals and placed huge faith in the Manchester United academy, something that seems to be lost a little with Van Gaal's desperation for a silverware remedy. Furthermore, it makes you wonder if assistant manager Ryan Giggs supported the Dutch manager''s decision having witnessed Welbeck play since he was a junior and develop into a team mate. 

There was a reason Welbeck featured often under Van Gaal's Scottish predecessors David Moyes and Sir Alex Ferguson. He would work hard  for the team, even if goals didn't always come you could count on Welbeck to give his all, hassle defenders on the ball and chase after loose balls. He would make runs that created space for others and was versatile also, able to adapt to the wings and even behind the striker.  Under Moyes, you could see Welbeck's frustration playing out wide but, he would often do a job out wide even if it wasn't spectacular. Moyes favoured him out wide but it brought little success moving a striker to the wing.   

The Dutchman waved goodbye to Welbeck this summer

There is no doubting Welbeck needs to add more goals to his game and was a common theme at Old Trafford. He did not score enough for a striker of Manchester United's quality and would often squander chances players like Van Persie and Rooney thrived on. But, he would more than often feature in the big games as managers knew he would work hard and put in a solid performance even if he didn't hit the back of the net.  

A rival of Manchester United and no doubt a serious contender that the Red Devil's will need to be wary of in the battle for a champion's league spot, selling to Arsenal aided the enemy in the sale. Desperate for a natural central striker with just Oliver Giroud and Yaya Sanago the only two, it looked as if the conservative Arsene Wenger was content to head into the season with a paper thing forward line.  

However, the Gunners left it to the last minute to secure the deal on deadline day. If Manchester United had not sold, Arsenal would have been seriously fragile and most likely in big trouble as it was not long until Giroud succumbed to injury. The sale in that sense, was a mistake as they had given a huge boost to the London based club. If Van Gaal was desperate to sell, he should have looked abroad for suitors or sold to a club that would not be threat to Manchester United.  

Welbeck has developed into a international regular in recent years

However, Welbeck has not had the impact he would have wanted at Arsenal in the early days at his new side, much to the annoyance of Arsenal fans. Just two goals and in nine appearances in the Premier League, Welbeck has not hit the back of net as many times as people thought he would now he was playing in his favoured central striker role and getting regular game time.  

Those who support Van Gaal's sale point to the £16m man's lack of goals, but it would be premature to write off Welbeck as a flop at his point. Still only 23, Welbeck can still produce for Arsenal for some time and his form for England of late suggests he could become the goal scorer he has not yet been at top flight level. 

The question remains unanswered still and only time will tell if Louis Van Gaal's decision was a stroke of genius or a mindless sale to a rival. Will Manchester United be left red faced over the transfer or is Welbeck not gunner deliver? 

Magnificent Marcelo

Real Madrid's Brazilian left back Marcelo is a man in form. Much like Real Madrid at the moment, Marcelo is flying high on form and has been one of the stand out players of Los Blanco's sensational early season goal frenzy. Marcelo has registered 5 assists in 13 La LIga and Champions League games.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti's transfer policy this summer has been questioned by many after the club sold key members of squad such as Xabi Alonso and Angel Di Maria to accommodate their summer blockbuster signing James Rodriguez who was signed off of the back of fantastic personal world cup again.

However, so far it is the Italian who has had the last laugh over his sceptics as Real Madrid sit top of the table and have scored 37 goals in 10 games, with much credit going to none other than a certain Cristano Ronaldo who has chalked up 17 goals in La Liga.  

Competitive and robust, Marcelo is enjoying a purple patch of form

Although it is likes of Ronaldo who grab the headlines for Real Madrid, Marcelo's contribution from the left flank can often go unnoticed among a sea of global stars. His industrial work at full back sees him get up and down the pitch for the full ninety and more often of not involved in Real Madrid's attacking moves. Unafraid to take on defenders either, Marcelo can be a dangerously under rated dribbler with the ball with his quick feet and acceleration.

Marcelo's seemingly telepathic understanding with Karim Benzema means that the little Brazilian often delivers drilled crosses that are a real handful for defenders but, are exactly what strikers like Benzema thrive on. Five assists is nothing to be sniffed at from full back and credit to the left back who adds to the attack and creates problems for teams out wide. Marcelo's chemistry with Ronaldo down the left creates havoc for defences as they play clever give and go's or Marcelo creates space for Ronaldo by acting as a over lapping full back.

Down the left flank, these two have a real understanding

Of course,  the 26 year old does not come without his obvious weaknesses, being a attack minded full back defending often comes Marcelo's second priority. He can also be impatient and rash in the challenge rather than stand a attacker up, giving a way silly fouls trying to win the ball when it is not always necessary to do so. Marcelo has a tendency to pick up cautions but, domestically has only picked up just the one this season.

Marcelo has performed when it has mattered too, delivering man of the match performances in big games such as the El Clasico and their latest  Champions League tie with Liverpool. Marcelo will be looking to continue his run of form as will Real Madrid as they look to dethrone local rivals Atletico Madrid as La Liga champions. Marcelo is little in stature but big in form right now!

Clyneing for a cap

Nathaniel Clyne believes he is good enough to feature in the England side for the future European qualifier against Slovenia and the friendly tie with Scotland. Ever- present in Ronald Koeman;s impressive Southampton side, Clyne well and truly deserves his place in the national set-up. England's right back position is a place of uncertainty, lacking a player to lay claim to the spot.

Clyne said in a recent interview: "It's always good to play for your country, if you play well then you get picked up. I think I've got the ability to play for my country, definitely. I'm playing with lots of confidence."

England manager Roy Hodgson has experimented with a number of right backs including Glen Johnson, Calum Chambers, Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and John Stones during his reign. Clyne's form in domestic games has been one of steady rise following his move to St Mary's from Crystal Palace. Yet another player from Southampton looks set to get capped for England following the additions of Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Jay Rodriguez last year and recently Arsenal's Chambers, a Southampton youth product.

Clyne, like Southampton, has been in great form

With more squad players joining the England national side, it speaks volumes for Southampton. A club that has gone strength to strength since arriving in the league, Southampton could well challenge for a place in Europe if early season form is to believed. Clyne won't be the last player to get called up either, as Jay Ward-Prowse has been ear marked as a future England star amongst the other talents in their notorious youth system.

Koeman's blistering start to the Premier League has proved many sceptics wrong after the fire sale of stars such as Dejan Lovren, Lallana and Lambert leaving for Liverpool, Chambers & Luke Shaw to Arsenal and Manchester United respectively and even saw stars like Morgan Schnerdlein try to jump ship. However, Southampton spent the money raised in a savvy business fashion, using Koeman's expansive knowledge of the Dutch Eredivisie to import top talent while maintaining the home grown philosophy and dipping into the talent pool of the youth system.

Koeman's start sees Southampton 2nd after 10 games

Graziano Pelle, a player Koeman previously worked with at Feyenoord, has been a real hit and even earned him a call up to the Italian national side. Dusan Tadic and Sadio Mane have also settled right into the south coast's side and look like two class captures.

Nathaniel Clyne could well nail a regular spot in the England side by replicating the solid performances he has produced for Southampton. The national side need to start finding first choice players in positions during this time of transition after the expected retirements of players post- world cup. Clyne is a player who could feature for years to come and has the talent to be a threat going forward but also defensively sound. Can Clyne claim a spot?

Alexandre on Song

It would be wrong to suggest that when West Ham announced the loan signing of Alexandre Song from Barcelona that a few eyebrows were not raised. Many were questioning how manager Sam Allardyce could manage to pull off such a deal and if he was still Premier League standard having spent a large part of his Barcelona experience on the bench. Others were curious about whether or not such a loan would damage the club's financial infrastructure with the Hammers paying a percentage of his £75,000 a week wage.

However, the Cameroon international's performances so far this season have turned all sceptics into believers. West Ham currently sit in 4th position in the Premier League and it is Song who has been at the corner stone of that success. Although it is often the likes of Enner Valencia and Diafra Sakho grabbing the headlines, it is Song who is dictating the play in the middle of the park.

Yet to register a assist or a goal, the majority of West Ham's play seems to flow through the former Arsenal midfielder. Strong, combative and with a stocky build suited to a defensive midfielder, Song is every bit as good going forward as he is tracking back. Despite coming through the Bastia youth ranks as a defensive midfielder, Song's game evolved under Arsene Wenger into a more rounded midfielder, with former Cameroon coach Javier Clemente stating: "He is a much better player in attack than he is defensively."  

Song has been one of many in form West Ham players

It was in his and Robin Van Persie's final season at the Emirates that the two created a incredible understanding, with Song finishing the season on 11 assists and earning a transfer to Barcelona. One observation of that notable personal season Song had, going forward meant he would sometimes forget his defensive duties. Although his time at the Nou Camp did not quite work out, Song has come back just as strong it seems and by the looks of things, West Ham have pulled off a real coup getting him in on loan.

The project Allardyce has in mind is something that Song himself admitted tempted him into turning down the likes of Napoli and Galatasary. Song said upon arrival: “West Ham is looking to be a very, very big club in the future. The club has a great project and it is a very big project with very big ambition. I think it’s great for the fans that the club wants to be one of the biggest in England. That’s why I chose to come here." 

If Allardyce can work the same sort of magic he used to lure Song to Upton Park in the first place to secure a permanent transfer, then the club will seriously be making a statement about their future intent. Signing a talent such as Song's will speak volumes for the club and with the clever business they have completed over the summer, could be in contention for a Europa League spot. Song does have his weaknesses, having demonstrated poor discipline at the World Cup as he elbowed an opposition player and saw red and can sometimes forget his defensive duties if he is played in a more attacking central midfield role.  

A rare and tranquil photo of Allardyce 

However, with the way Song has played so far, other big clubs may become interested for a player that is more than likely to leave Barcelona at the end of his loan spell. It is no secret that Arsenal are lacking a strong and combative central midfielder and a return to the Emirates would be more than appealing for Song. Signing the midfielder would be exactly what the Gunners so desperately need and fans cry out for.   

Even if Song being a West Ham player is for just the one season, West Ham fans still have a lot to look forward to under Allardyce who seems to finally have cracked the winning formula in his side following a difficult start to his reign. West Ham are on song for a exciting season, if you will pardon the pun...

No Big Mac for Gignac

“Un Big Mac, pour Gignac" - a chant that would so often echo from rival fans of Marseille to taunt the heavy set Andre Pierre Gignac. Translated as "a Big Mac for Gignac," the penny seems to have finally dropped for the Frenchman, who has silenced those who mocked him with his red hot form this season. Nine goals in as many games is nothing to be sniffed at, so much so has seen him earn a recall back to the French national side after  a 4 year absence from the starting line up.  

So what has sparked such form from a striker that would be described as a 13 goal-a-season striker based on previous seasons? Many suggest it is the work of the "Bielsa effect." Marcelo Bielsa's appointment as manager has seen him implement a strict regime that has inspired Gignac to be the best that he can be. Gignac looks in good shape this year too, a player who has previously battled problems with his weight.  

Gignac has been lethal this season

Bielsa's attack minded approach also favours not only the striker's type of play, but also utilises the whole team in the best way possible. Marseille currently sit top of the table, with Bielsa's modern 4-2-3-1 formation meaning Gignac plays in his favoured role as the lone striker, who acts as a target man and poacher in the box. Bielsa is a strict in his management, and is rumoured to never laugh at times of work and despite there being a mismatch in character between Bielsa and the self confessed joker Gignac, so far evidence suggests it is a match made in heaven. 

The team looks for Gignac to hold the ball up, drawing the creative likes of Dimitri Payet, Florian Thauvin and Andre Ayew into the game, who themselves have also been impressive this season. The creativity between these three means Gignac will get the service he requires to score and he has done just that.  

Gignac's weight has been a focus point in French media

His recall to the national team is a testimony to how well he has played under Bielsa and even capped off his return to the national side with a goal from the spot against Armenia. If Gignac continues his goal scoring streak in his native France it may not be long before other clubs start to consider Gignac who was once reported to be a Tottenham target.  

Marseille's form this year has been nothing short of spectacular and at the fore front of the early success is Gignac. It seems Ligue 1 may have a new title contender following the rejuvenation that has gone on under Bielsa. However, it is still early days in the campaign and if Marseille are to overthrow rivals PSG for the domestic crown, Gignac will need to carry on his exploits. Looks like Gignac will be sticking to the salads for sometime! 

Not so super Mario

Amidst Liverpool's summer spending, there is no doubt that the signing that grabbed the most attention was the £16m paid to AC Milan for the notorious Mario Balotelli. His second spell in England,  manager Brendan Rogers admits that signing Balotelli is a "calculated risk,"  with his on and off the field behavioural problems. There is no arguing that the Italian does have the potential to be a world class but, many have grown frustrated with how Balotelli has squandered his talent in recent years.

It's early days in his Liverpool career however, Mario Balotelli has not impressed. He seems to be lethargic in his style of play like he was at AC Milan and with only one goal for his efforts this season, many are concerned that Balotelli is still not doing enough. In the goal department, he is one for the trying with 63 shots in his last 20 Premier League games and scoring just the 1 goal.

So what is the reason that is preventing Balotelli from performing like many know he can? At AC Milan, Balotelli's form was up and down throughout the whole season, sometimes being the game changer but, more often than not, was being carried by his team mates. He would often go missing in games and when he wasen't performing it showed. If things weren't going Mario's way, he would stroll around the pitch in what can only be described as a petulant child's strop.

Down on his his luck, Balotelli needs to score more

It would be frustrating for fans to see, as they knew that Balotelli was a player that could be in the world class bracket if he got his head down and worked hard although "Super Mario" didn't seem interested. In what can only be described as a horror season for AC Milan, many doubt that Balotelli was fully committed  to his boyhood club.

Dropped by new manager Antonio Conte for a second time from the Italian national side, Balotelli is now well and truly fighting for his spot as the main striker with the preferred Simone Zaza, the in form Graziano Pelle and former Torino man Ciro Immobile all selected ahead of Balotelli. Many hope that Conte's omission of Balotelli will be the kick up the backside he needs to start performing at his best.

Liverpool fans have every right to expect more from the 24 year old. Hopefully, Balotelli will begin to produce his best once he feels fully gelled into the side, who have brought a number of new faces over the summer that will need time to build up a rapport with one another. Liverpool, like Balotelli, have also been disappointing in the early days of the campaign.

A notorious figure, Balotelli will need to behave 

Roberto Mancini, a man who has twice worked with him at Inter Milan and Manchester City, says that this is his last chance. "Mario is a good guy, but he is aware that Liverpool is probably his final opportunity to prove what he can do on the pitch. It's his last chance." 

Balotelli is definitely a gamble at £16m but, if he can get his head down and produces his best, that fee will look like an absolute coup. If Mancini is right and this is the last chance saloon for Balotelli, then he has certainly picked a club where it is make or break in Liverpool. As ever, all eyes will be on the Italian. Is "Super Mario" really that super? Time to find out... 

"Rock bottom" Borussia

Just 7 games in, it may be a little premature to think things won't change but, the poor early season form of Borussia Dortmund may have already cost them mounting a serious title challenge. Jurgen Klopp's side have just 7 points from 7 games and are already 10 points behind title rivals Bayern Munich. Such a start has been described by Jurgen Klopp as "rock bottom."

Bayern Munich are currently sitting streaks ahead of Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga and may prove to hard to catch up should they continue the form they are in. Yet to lose, Guardiola's men have only dropped points twice with two draws in their opening 7 games. A 10 point gap at this point in the season have many suggesting Dortmund could be playing catch up all season. Munich only lost twice last year and drew three times, a statistic that proves they don't often drop points.

Dortmund have looked poor this year, unable to get a steady form of wins and have lost 4 times including a lose this weekend to then bottom of the table Hamburg, a team who many expect will be fighting for Bundesliga survival. Although impressive in Europe having overcome challenges such as Anderlecht and Arsenal, Dortmund may be suffering from a European hangover as they have been a polar opposite in their domestic league.

Dortmund have looked poor this year under Klopp

Jurgen Klopp recognised the dire form that Borussia are in and wants the side the forget about their early form as the season starts now.  "We've now got to accept all the criticism that comes our way, even the unjustified stuff. Today is October 4 and this is rock bottom, and the starting point for the remainder of the season." 

Dortmund's new signings are still finding their feet at the club whereas Shinji Kagawa has instantly recaptured the form he once had after a poor spell at Manchester United and looks as if he never had left. Bayern Munich's latest additions on the other hand have settled in nicely, with Xabi Alonso in particular looking like a absolute coup for the fee they paid for him.

The talented Ciro Immobile is yet to fully settle in the side and produce the displays many know he is capable of and the side seem to be missing the presence of their former star striker Robert Lewandowski, now of Bayern Munich.The side have been unfortunate with injuries in the early days of the campaign and will be welcoming back the missed likes of Marco Reus, Nuri Sahin and Ilkay Gundogan.  

The Italian striker Ciro Immobile is the man tasked with
replacing the departed Robert Lewandowski

Borussia Dortmund don't look strong as they were last season going forward, something Klopp himself has recognised and labelled as: "looking uncomfortable going forward." They have been unable to produce the high tempo and fluid attacking football they have displayed in their European outings.

Borussia Dortmund desperately need to correct their form if they are to catch up to Bayern Munich and challenge the dominance the Bavarians have had in the Bundesliga these past couple of seasons. The fans of Dortmund will be looking to Klopp to remedy the situation but, grow impatient with poor results and recently voiced their disapproval at the end of the whistle. A very weak start for Borussia Dortmund, could a title challenge already be over?

Managers that could be gone before Christmas

The manager merry-go-round is constantly spinning and with expectant modern day club owners becoming increasingly comfortable giving the chop to a manager it is only a matter of time before European football witnesses a high profile manager getting the sack. So who could be first to go?

A section of fans wanted Alan Pardew out before the end of last season as Newcastle went through a poor run of form for sometime but, owner Mike Ashley had faith in the former Charlton manager. It seems his faith may have been misplaced as now the majority of Newcastle fans want Pardew out and have gone to great lengths to get their message across.

Internet campaigns, rallies and even printing "Pardew Out" fliers and banners and publicly displaying them at St James' mean Newcastle fans have delivered their verdict on the matter. However, the decision lies with the Sports Direct tycoon Ashley who seems to be growing impatient with results. Newcastle currently lie 19th in the league and have yet to win a game in this campaign. Newcastle have strengthened this summer with their usual French league preference by signing players like Remi Cabella and Emmanuel Riviere but still cant seem to chalk a win up on the board.  

"Give me this much time, I will turn it around!"

The Magpies are underachieving with the squad they have and really should not be in the relegation zone. If Ashley does not address the problem soon then Newcastle could find themselves in a situation where they have to fight for Premier League survival if results continue as they are. Ashley wants to give Pardew time to change things around however, how long is it before he has been given too much time?  

The Napoli revolution in the summer of 2013 saw the club be one of the biggest spenders in Europe bringing in high profile names like Gonzalo Higuain, Jose Callejon and Dries Mertens to name a few. £64 million spent, mostly generated from the sale of sought after stars Edinson Cavani and Ezequiel Lavezzi, lead by the experienced Rafa Benitez many thought Napoli could over throw the domination Juventus had in Serie A and saw their activity as a statement of intent. 

The club haven't quite matched the spending they did last year despite bringing in a few new faces however, have not started well. Although still early in the Serie A season, Napoli sit in 8th with two wins from five games, hardly the form the side need to challenge for Serie A silverware. One major criticism of Napoli under Benitez is their inconsistent form, being able to challenge the best but struggle to overcome weaker oppositions and critics suggest that Napoli won't win a Serie A title with Benitez because of this.  

Benitez did win the Coppa Italia last year with Napoli

The former Liverpool and Chelsea manager has had to address the media about a possible sacking after his side were held to a 3-3 draw to a uninspiring Palermo. The Spaniard said: "Do I feel at risk? No. I haven't spoken to the president, but I don't need to talk to him every five minutes to ask if I'm at risk or not at risk." Benitez seems relaxed abut his job in the Naples but if he does not get the side playing with a positive steady form he could get packing his backs for the second time in Italy.  

Ask any manager and they will tell you winning back to back titles is one of the hardest things to do in football, even if you are manager of a super rich power like PSG. Laurent Blanc faces that challenge with Paris based side but, the side have not started the season like a championship winning team. In a league that is considered weak in comparison to the squad PSG have and the financial backing, pressure is always high for Blanc to deliver and so far this season, he has not. 

PSG currently sit in 4th place with 8 games played and are 5 points off of league leaders Marsielle, a team that could be PSG's new found title rivals following Monaco's demise who have been reinvigorated under the impressive Marco Biesla. The side have not lost yet however, have only won 3 times and drawn 5 and Blanc is beginning to feel the pressure. PSG have looked uninspiring in their play this year and star players like Zlatan Ibrahimovic look unmotivated and lacklustre. 

A high pressure job with much expectation

Following a questionable summer transfer window, where the club opted to spend £40m on David Luiz after he performed poorly in the world cup, the price tag being a large sum of their transfer budget as they struggle to stay in financial fair play regulations, meant they missed out on other targets like Angel Di Maria. The 3-2 win against Barcleona may prove crucial to the Frenchman in keeping his job as they side have already drawn to Ajax. If the side were to go out the Champions League in the group stages it would be considered a disaster. Laurent Blanc's every move will be under much scrutiny in France. 

To predict the future in today's modern game is impossible, with managers coming and going more than ever. However, based on the early signs this season, these three gaffers could be in hot water should their early form fail to pick up. Who will be first to go this year then? 

The new and improved Neymar

There is no doubt that Neymar has unquestionable quality but, like every star, he has his critics. Some say he needs to do more for Barcelona, to score more, to stop getting caught on the ball as much, to be more direct. Do these critics have a leg to stand on? Well, even the greats can improve on their game and Neymar is no different. The world cup star has shown he has corrected his earlier weaknesses so far this year and could be on course for a big personal campaign. So what is different this year?

Goals, goals, goals. The 22 year old scored 15 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions under the under whelming Gerard Martino. Although a respectable figure, fans were expecting more in the goal department with the expensive transfer fee and world wide hype that came with the Brazilian. If Neymar can get himself on the score sheet more, fans will soon forgive him for what was a okay debut season.

Neymar will look to build on his debut campaign

Neymar has already done this, having scored 8 goals already for Barcelona in just 8 La Liga appearances including hitting a hatrick the other weekend against Granada. Whether it has been the change in management or Neymar carrying on the blistering form he had at world cup before he was injured that has made him more clinical in front of goal is unclear but, it is certainly exciting to see.  

Any football fan will tell you that the football played in South America is certainly different to that played in Europe. The football in Spain is far more physical than Brazil and Neymar certainly found that out last season. He was often brushed off the ball far to easily and found himself on the end of some heavy challenges, something his frail stature couldn't always handle.

Neymar's weight at Barcelona is a hot topic. It was rumoured that when Neymar arrived at the Nou Camp he weighed just 8 stone. Sure, his lightweight frame makes him quick and is vital to his style of play but does need to be stronger if he is to compete in Europe. He has put on weight since the Barcelona medical staff raised concerns over his body frame and compared to the Neymar that represented Santos, he is physically stronger.

"We're getting better together" - Neymar on Messi

An opening season for any player is difficult at a new club, especially when you are arriving in a different continent let alone country. Players adapt to a new club at different rates but often enough it takes a season or so for a player to feel comfortable at a new club, become fully gelled into the footballing family and create a understanding with players. Neymar has already spoken of his developed understanding with Barcelona golden boy Lionel Messi this season and it shows on the pitch. Messi has assisted Neymar a number of times this season already and it is this duo that are the reason Barcelona have started so strong.

Neymar has come back to Barcelona this season stronger, clinical and fully in tune with his Barcelona team mates. Neymar and Messi have been two of the stand out stars of the early campaign and with Luis Suarez still yet to be added to the mix. It will be interesting to see if Suarez immediately adapts to the possession football that is played in Spain rather than the high tempo football in England and could need a year to give his best like Neymar seems to have done. It seems Neymar could have a huge season at the Nou Camp this year...

A nation's central midfield question

For as long as fans can remember, the central midfield role has been occupied by the duo of Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard, although a match made in heaven in theory with their playing styles complimenting one another, the two never truly clicked and delivered the quality fans expected.With England crashing out of the world cup disappointingly in the group stages, both Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard have decided to hang up their international boots. Their retirements have left Roy Hodgson with a huge gap to fill in the centre of midfield and despite the England manager's preference for youth, there seems to be few candidates that have the ability to step up.

One thing the world cup highlighted was that England, despite the expectation fans have, are miles behind the world's strongest nations such as recent winners Germany in terms of ability. There are a number of theories to why this maybe but, right now the nation faces a real challenge to promote players to the first team that will improve on the previous batch. 

Hodgson has a preference for the modern day 4-2-3-1 formation, with two central midfielders sitting in and supplying the creative three in front of them. No doubt that the retirements of Lampard and Gerrard will mean that Jordan Henderson and Jack Wilshere will be seriously considered as Hodgson's first choice central midfielders. Ross Barkley will also benefit and is likely to get more game time also but after those three, who else do England really have?  

A huge gap left by two of England's finest players

In the recent European qualifiers, Fabian Delph was handed his international debut and did the job Hodgson was looking for but, hardly wowed fans. "The ginger Pirlo" as Hodgson has labelled him but more commonly known as Jack Colback of Newcastle was also called up to the squad however, injury robbed him of making his international debut. England fans met this call up with hesitance and were left scratching their heads at such a generous comparison. Although, both Delph and Colback still have youth on their side as both are just 24 years of age and can both grow as players. Promoting them to the international first team as back up to begin with could see them both benefit. If Hodgson is handing players international debuts a player hugely under rated is Mark Noble of West Ham. 

Hodgson also has the option to tinker. Alex Oxlade Chamberlain, although some will rightly argue that his talents make him far more potent as a attacking player, has shown he can impress in midfield as Arsene Wenger has previously experimented with him in a central role. True, playing Chamberlain in central midfield makes England vulnerable defensively but, Hodgson may have to consider playing him in a deeper role. Ross Barkley can also fill in as a player in central midfield but like Chamberlain, is far more suited to a more attacking role in the side.    

A seriously under rated player that could make his way into the squad

Promoting youth to the English first team and replacing the old guard that exists in the current England side is one of Hodgson's main objectives as England boss. Some may argue it is too soon but, Jay Ward-Prowse of Southampton is one of the brightest midfield talents England have at their disposal. Clever on the ball and gifted with technical ability, Ward-Prowse maybe promoted to the first team in the next round of fixtures and with the way he has developed in the last few years England could have a gem on their hands. Other talents that could one day feature include Nathaniel Chalobah, Nick Powell or even the forgotten talents of Josh Mceachran.  

The players that will feature in next European Championship is anyone's guess but, Hodgson has a real task on his hands to replace the experience that Lampard and Gerrard both brought to the side. Youth will get their chance to prove themselves too, meaning England fans do have reasons to get excited however, the side is some way off winning a international trophy. The Euro qualifiers and friendlies will be the best indicator to who will get the nod from Hodgson to fill in the middle of the park so pay close attention...

Kovacic's time to step up

In the blue half of Milan, it isn't Nemanja Vidic that is stealing the limelight but, another player from the Balkans. Midfielder Mateo Kovacic has been a star in the beginning days of the campaign and at the tender age of just 20, Kovacic may finally be coming good on the promise he showed in earlier years. This year could be Kovacic's year... 

Since arriving and being bestowed the illustrious number 10 shirt that was previously worn by former talisman Wesley Sneijder, the Croatian has found life tough at the San Siro. Arriving with the reputation of being a wonder kid, there was much expectation placed on his shoulders. Featuring heavily under ex-manager Andrea Stramaccioni, Kovacic found game time difficult to come by under current manager Walter Mazzari last year.  

However, Mazzari has placed new found faith in the 20 year old and giving him the game time he needs is seeing Inter Milan reap the rewards. The Inter Milan fans have been waiting for some time to see the potential that was perceived when he arrived from Dinamo Zagreb and many are hoping this is the season that he steps up and delivers.  

Kovacic has started the season in great form

Kovacic has started Inter Milan's first few games and has been a huge influence. Scoring two goals in his last two Serie A games as well as delivering one of his best performances in a Internazionale jersey against Sassuolo. In a recent Q&A with fans and manager, Mazzari was supportive of a comparison between Kovacic and a certain Andres Iniesta. Mazzari went on to say: "He handles himself differently on the pitch now: he misplaces fewer passes, his off the ball movement is better, he gets himself forward. His shooting has come on too and with the talent he's got there's still tremendous room for improvement."  

Kovacic is ever so comfortable with the ball at his feet and loves receiving the ball deep and driving at the opposition. His reading of the game and vision allows him to carve open defences when on the attack but, also aids him in his defensive labour as he makes important interceptions. His footwork is also impressive and his range of passing has become a real weapon in his arsenal. However, a criticism of Kovacic is his lack in strength and playing in such a physical league like Serie A, he can often be caught on the ball.  

Mazzari has placed faith in Kovacic early on in the season

Arguably a huge benefit to Kovacic's game is versatility in midfield, having been deployed in a number of roles in the middle of the park. However, such adaptability has cursed the youngster as he has yet to find a comfortable and regular position in the Inter Milan starting line up. Former AC Milan star and Croatian captain Zvonimir Boban said: “He’s not a born play maker and not yet a complete player. He can play either on the left or right of central midfield in a 4-3-3 or a 3-5-2. He could also become a play maker in a few years’ time.”  

It's still the beginning of the Serie A season but, performances of late suggest Kovacic is finally ready to step up. He could become a gem in a league that is judged by many in decline and if he continues his recent form, could become a sought after talent too. The Inter Milan faithful may finally be witnessing the unearthing the gem that is Kovacic....

The Gaalacticos

A £150m total spend has well and truly marked Louis Van Gaal's reign at Manchester United as a era of the "Gaalacticos." Much criticism last year for a lack of spending, Van Gaal's vision twinned with vice chairman Ed Woodward's sanctioning of transfers has seen the club bring in some of the world's biggest stars to the Premier League. The problems the side had last year with David Moyes has seen the club take a turn in philosophy, choosing to spend money to fix troubles but, is this the right way to do things?

There's no questioning throwing money at a side will bring instant success, there has been a number of teams in recent history that are a testimony to this. When world class quality like Angel Di Maria or Radamel Falcao who can single handedly sway games Manchester United's way arrive, it is only natural to have a expectation that things must improve. United's summer spending is definitely a statement of intent as their aim is to break back into the top three and get into next years champion's league.  

However, the sale of Danny Welbeck, a player that was held in such high regard at Old Trafford having been at the club since he was 8 years old and was expected to follow the sort of mould that has been a trend at Manchester United since the legendary class of  '92, represents the change from faith in the academy to big spending on quality this year under Louis Van Gaal. The arrival of Falcao meant that Welbeck would have been pushed further down the pecking order and in order to recuperate some of the money spent was sacrificed.

A slow start for Van Gaal's era

In the short term, spending this sort of money may be the right thing to do as avoiding repeating last year's disappointing campaign is priority but in the long term means the potential in the academy may find it hard to break into the first team. Di Maria's arrival could mean Adnan Januzaj's game time is affected despite the Belgian's first team break through being one of the few positives taken from last season.

Even with the blockbuster signings, some argue Manchester United have not strengthened enough in the correct area, defence. The club lost a lot of experience in Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra at the back but opted to only bring in a teenage left back in Luke Shaw with little experience at top level and Marcos Rojo who is also a left sided defender. Rojo can act as a centre back and is likely to adopt that position over the course of the season but, the side needed another experienced centre back. Youth product Tyler Blackett has been given a run in the first team and looks promising however, the defence at Old Trafford is fragile and lacking in depth.

Manchester United's annual wages have also gone through the £200m mark, a 19% rise on last year. Angel Di Maria, Luke Shaw, Radamel Falcao are three signings that have all penned deals that are past the £100k a week mark. The club's inner wage structure has certainly risen with their summer deals and if more signings are to arrive, could continue to sky rocket.

Rooney has been appointed captain by Van Gaal

The Gaalactico's have got off to a slow start, chalking up their first win on the fourth attempt of trying. Van Gaal is yet to settle on a preferred formation either, having started with 3 at the back and then altering it to 4 at the back. Van Gaal is yet to fully get to grips with his squad, having had little pre season working with them due to the world cup and will take time before he and his squad fully gel.

Van Gaal needs time and support to restore Manchester United to former glory. It won't be something done in a season but, Van Gaal has already said he is here for three years and looking to bring instant success. Spending the money he has done defiantly suits that outlook but, could sacrifice some of the impressive potential coming through at Old Trafford. The era of the Gaalactico's has begun...