News Archive

Brentford manager Craig Pritchard hailed his team's shift in attitude as a reason for his team securing a 1-0 win at Brighton on Monday night, which was their third win in a row and a second clean sheet in that run.

Kevin Schade pounced on Jaurigezar's deflected shot in the 11th minute to give the Bees an advantage that they didn't squander, unlike so many other games earlier in the season that catapulted them to the top of the table for points thrown away.

The away side controlled the Round 23 Championship encounter, restricting Brighton to just two shots on target, with their profligacy in front of goal meaning they were unable to build sustained pressure on Brentford's James Beadle.

Pritchard felt that while Brighton have struggled this season, his side's ability to take charge in recent games has shown his team have started to heed his advice about their mentality.

"The team was not showing their mental strength when the going got tough. Last season we showed a professional approach to get everything we can from everybody in the squad, and to not let teams back in the game if we got in front. I think in the last three games we're seeing that mentality come back to us and we're getting the results we're capable of. Today we really didn't give Brighton much of a chance to hit back. We know we can score but our work without the ball was not good enough before the break, and that hard work to fix that is paying off."

Pritchard agreed with a reporter that the arrival of James Beadle and the improvement of results has not been a coincidence.

"James is young, hungry, and most of all, he's a talented young keeper. Some people said I was nuts by giving him the armband upon signing, but he's very much part of our mantra at the club. Players that start have every chance of being given the captaincy. He's got a great young head on his shoulders. He's taken the opportunity we've given him so far. He's been impressive."

Pritchard also praised the much-maligned Kevin Schade, who is finally hitting some goalscoring form after a difficult opening half of the season, scoring his third goal in as many games.

"Kevin has got a lot of stick recently, including from me, about not scoring. Sometimes you just need one goal and they start flowing. He's showing how good he can be, and he still loves this club, even if he's no longer the captain. Today was a strike of pure goalscoring instinct. You can't teach how to be in the right place at the right time. It's got us the three points."

Brentford move up to 14th, but will host Stockport County on Friday in a stern test for Pritchard's young squad. However, the Australian manager believes in his squad and in this form, they hold no fears for their opponent.

"We respect the quality of their manager and first team, and we had a great battle with them earlier in the season, but in this form, we have a lot more confidence. We respect all of our opponents but don't fear them. The vibe at the club is returning to something like we had towards the end of last season. We may have lost some senior players in that time but the new players are incredibly keen to prove themselves. We will be ready."

AFC Monaco 2–1 Valencia Monaco’s attacking intent makes the difference in a tactical battle

A clash between two of the EFL2’s struggling sides produced a surprisingly absorbing contest, with contrasting tactical approaches ultimately deciding the outcome.

From the opening whistle, it was clear that AFC Monaco manager Peter Southcott had no intention of sitting back and waiting for an opportunity. Monaco attacked with purpose from the outset, while their opponents appeared content to remain cautious and attempt to frustrate their more adventurous rivals.

That difference in ambition would prove decisive.

Brooks bends one into the top corner

Monaco’s positive start was rewarded after just five minutes.

D. Bazoer was brought down by T. Corerria just outside the penalty area, giving Monaco a dangerous free-kick opportunity. Stepping up was D. Brooks, who produced a moment of genuine quality.

Brooks whipped a superb effort over the wall and into the top corner, leaving the goalkeeper with absolutely no chance.

1–0 Monaco.

It was exactly the kind of start Southcott would have wanted. Monaco had committed bodies forward, asked questions of the opposition defence and were rewarded for their intent.

Rather than retreat into their shell, Monaco continued to look the more threatening side. They controlled much of the first half and, when the whistle went for half-time, their lead felt thoroughly deserved.

Traore produces a thunderbolt

The second half, however, brought a response.

On 53 minutes, L. Traore stepped up for the opposition and unleashed an extraordinary strike. The ball flew towards goal with tremendous power, giving the Monaco defence and goalkeeper little opportunity to intervene.

A genuine piledriver.

Suddenly, the game was level.

1–1.

For all Monaco's good work in the first half, their opponents had found a way back into the contest, and momentum appeared to be swinging.

But Monaco weren't finished.

Van Persie delivers the winner

With the match finely balanced, Monaco needed one of their leaders to produce something special.

Step forward captain R. Van Persie.

The Monaco skipper delivered a moment worthy of winning any match, producing a stunning strike that immediately entered the conversation for Goal of the Season.

It was the kind of goal that stops a match in its tracks — a moment of individual brilliance when his team needed it most.

2–1 Monaco.

And this time, there would be no comeback.

Monaco held their nerve through the closing stages to secure a valuable victory and, perhaps more importantly, a win that reflected their manager's approach to the game.

Tactical battle decided by ambition

In truth, there wasn't a huge gulf in quality between the two sides. Both remain among the weaker teams in EFL2, and the match could easily have gone either way once the scores were level.

But the difference was tactical.

Peter Southcott wanted his Monaco side to attack from the first whistle. His willingness to commit forward created chances, earned the early free kick and ultimately put Monaco in a position to win the match.

Their opponents' more cautious approach kept them competitive, but it also meant they spent long periods reacting rather than dictating.

When the dust settled, Monaco had twice found the net through moments of outstanding individual quality — first Brooks' exquisite free kick, then Van Persie's spectacular winner.

For Southcott and AFC Monaco, it was a victory built on attacking intent, finished with two moments of magic.

Final Score: AFC Monaco 2–1 Valencia

Goals: ⚽ 5' D. Brooks ⚽ 53' L. Traore ⚽ 61' R. Van Persie

Player of the Match: R. Van Persie — The captain led by example with a sensational winning goal and proved to be the difference between the two sides.

Manager's verdict: Peter Southcott will be delighted. Monaco showed courage, attacked with purpose and, when the match demanded a moment of brilliance, their captain delivered.

Just hours before their Dave Phillips Cup second leg against Italian giants, Inter Milan, the fans of Sporting Lisbon have been rocked by news that all of the clubs star players have handed in transfer requests in the hope of avoiding playing for a manager "certain to send our careers down the sh1tter". That is a direct quote from star defender, Presnel Kimpembe, who is said to be furious over the constant tinkering with formations and tactics.

"How are we supposed to build any continuity and structure when we don't know what we'll be doing from day to day? It's obvious the guy has no tactical knowledge, no preferred method of play and no bloody clue! I'm out"

Big words from a veteran player but the fact that his transfer request was swiftly followed by three others show its not just one person that sees the impending doom. It doesn't help that the new manager is winless in three games along with 2 losses, or that he has changed formations weekly after 28 straight weeks with some variation of 52021.

Kimpembe's transfer request might not break heart given he's 32 years old and probably looking for one last push for trophies in his twilight years, nor the request from Leandro Trossard who is 33 years old. What is sure to give greater concern is the requests from Goncalo Guedes and Pierre Kalulu who are both in the primes of their careers and would be exciting additions to any team.

Guedes is 30 and offers 7/18/26 skill, leading the line and delivering key goals on a consistent basis. Kalulu is a modern defender with 24/21 and at 29 years old has years left in him. The good news in Lisbon is that all these players are under contract and, despite their protestations, are unlikely to be let go on the cheap.

No word yet from star goalkeeper, Michele di Grigorio, who is thought to be in high demand after early enquiries about his availability. He's not come forward and formally asked for a transfer but if the rumours of a full rebuild at Sporting are true, its safe to assume that clubs interested in the charismatic 30 rated goalkeeper will have an interested ear in the transfer department in Lisbon.

Early insight from the analytics department suggest that a healthy sum of money could be acquired if all these players are sold. Di Grigorio is valued at 100m by the transfer overlords, whilst Guedes is valued at 90m, Kimpembe at 63.2m and Kalulu at 57m. The veteran midfielders Trossard and Paqueta combine for almost 100m in value, though in all these cases the club are sure to explore part exchange opportunities.

Whether anything gets done early, or discussions wait until the end of the season are up in the air but its safe to say that, if rumours are to be believed, this will not look like the same Sporting Lisbon next season! Relegation, either this season or next, would seem to be a near certainty!

The new Sporting Lisbon manager has never managed in FFO before so its quite surprising that news has come out this week that he might be for the chop early if results don't improve for the club. Taking over a top flight FFO EFL1 club is not for the faint hearted but if the first three games are anything to go by its going to be a pretty depressing second half of the season in Portugal.

The managers first game in charge was the Dave Phillips Trophy, Leg 1 away to Inter Milan and a familiar foe in opposition manager, Dan Thompson. Both sides toyed with a back 4 with some crazy concoction of midfielders but ultimately both sides Counter Attacking styles cancelled each other out and the game ended in a 0-0 draw. That's probably not a bad result as they head back to Lisbon for a winner gets through contest with home field advantage.

In the managers first taste of league action, EFL1 Round 20 Lisbon opted for a different approach with a unique 32221 European set up that was probably intended on confusing their German opponents, Bayer Leverkusen. Sadly for the Sporting faithful, despite dominating the stats, they only confused themselves as the German outfit left with the 3 points in a 2-1 loss.

Up next was another league fixture in Round 21 with an away trip to France and an imperious Marseille team. This one looked like it might be a belter with both teams going with loads of attacking players and attacking tactics. The game proved that way with Marseille coming out with a narrow 2-1 victory in a game that had 41 shots on goal. Again the result felt fair but it left a slight feeling of frustration as the team were good enough to come out of the game with a win and might have hoped for more production than 1 goal from 13 shots on target, however, they didn't and there's no consolation prize.

Up next is the return leg in the Dave Phillips Trophy and a loss at home to inter might make the Sporting board start to regret hiring an unproven manager that isn't ready for the heat of FFO. In all likelihood he probably won't get sacked and will stick around for years, mostly underperforming but occasionally having a moment or two or joy!

The first mission for the new manager will be deciding on how he wants to play the game as constant tinkering with tactics and formations can't be helping the team develop. Who knows whether we'll be back to a back 4 or a trial with a back 5? He's not tried Long Ball yet so maybe thats on the cards (probably not, nobody likes Long Ball).

Other questions remain unanswered on what the long term plan is in Lisbon. Will they look for a quick route to the top or a more patient, long term approach built around developing the facilities and youth set up at the club. If its the latter you can expect to see many of the clubs stars leave the club with DiGregorio, Kimpembe, Trossard, Zubimendi, and Guedes all likely seen as valuable assets for a rebuild. The club are waiting on a report from the analytics team on the potential value of these players along with a full report from the academy on the progression. All of this is to be decided over the course of the remaining 20 games with a full plan to be submitted to the board of directors in due course.

For now, the focus will be on whether or not the team can get through to the next round of the cup.

BRISTOL SEND NORWICH TO ASK CHELSEA FOR POCKET MONEY

Chelsea’s hierarchy received an unusual approach yesterday when representatives of Norwich City arrived carrying a message on behalf of Bristol City’s management. Apparently, Bristol wanted to organise a potential transfer but couldn't quite summon the courage to speak to Steve Talbot themselves.

The subject was their star defender Lenny Yoro, with Bristol enquiring how much Chelsea might pay for his services at the end of the season. Quite why this required a messenger from Norfolk remains unclear. Norwich presumably have their own club to run, and players to desperately sell, such as the much flaunted around Emre Can.

The timing, however, needs rather less explaining. Chelsea’s announcement yesterday to the press detailing their substantial investment in Pau Cubarsi appears to have caught Bristol’s attention. Having spotted a club willing to spend heavily, the Robins seemingly developed an immediate interest in helping themselves to some of the remaining funds.

Unfortunately, their greedy belly and enthusiasm for Chelsea’s money was not matched by any enthusiasm for an actual conversation.

Perhaps the embarrassment of their failed Juventus stint and their behaviour at the time still lingers. Whatever sins remain on that particular conscience, Bristol’s management appear reluctant to face Talbot either privately or in public. Sending another manager to ask to broker a deal is certainly a novel way of avoiding eye contact.

Talbot’s response was reportedly to enquire how old the Bristol management team were, before asking the Canary couriers to deliver a simple instruction: be a big boy and ask Chelsea directly.

Sources indicate that no further communication has passed between any of the three parties.

Yoro may yet be available this summer. Whether Bristol’s management will be available to discuss it without a responsible adult in the room remains to be seen.

PENDERS CROCKED, CHELSEA ROCKED, SPICE BOYS PAY THE PRICE

Chelsea’s recent run has been enough to make Steve Talbot wonder whose ladder he walked under. Or did he step on a black cat's tail? An injury to star 31 rated goalkeeper Mike Penders started the trouble, and almost everything since has gone wrong for the Spice Boys.

The nightmare began in the 26th minute of Chelsea’s Round 19 home game against Southampton at the Bridge. Off went their 31 rated number one keeper with a groin injury, and on came 21 rated Tim Sylva, and everyone at Stamford Bridge suddenly had rather more interest into putting their collective efforts into blowing very hard in unision towards the match ball to keep the ball away from their own penalty area.

Chelsea survived that afternoon, securing a 2-1 victory with Sylva conceding just once. The real damage came afterwards. Penders would miss another two matches with his little groin strain the fairy, with Chelsea’s Champions League hopes about to be placed in some extremely questionable hands.

First came Talbot's former club Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge in the final round of the Champions League league phase. Chelsea won the shot count 13-4, scored three times and somehow still lost 4-3.

Four Madrid shots. Four on target. Four goals.

Sylva was about as useful as a chocolate fireguard. Chelsea could hardly have asked for much more from their attacking players, but at the other end every Madrid effort appeared to come with a goal celebration attached. A place in the top four, and automatic passage into the quarter finals, slipped away.

Chelsea’s reward was a play off against local rivals Millwall. Footsoldier Gaz "Pat Tate" Windebank must have struggled to contain his disappointment upon discovering that Penders was still unavailable and, just for good measure, Chelsea’s best striker Willy Gnonto would also miss the first leg.

No best goalkeeper. No best forward. Merry Christmas, Millwall. An early present for you from the God's.

Talbot at least moved quickly to address the goalkeeping situation the best he could showing elite management, bringing in 28 rated P_Gollini from Bournemouth. With a considerably stronger deputy secured, the Chelsea manager devised a plan to frustrate the hosts. Sit deep, shut the game down and bore everyone senseless. A 0-0 would do beautifully. Even a narrow 1-0 defeat would leave the tie very much alive.

It had the makings of one of those Talbot tactical masterclasses that people from by gone seasons and years still talk about to this day. Unfortunately, it lasted until the very first action of the match.

Chelsea’s best defender, Manuel Pellegrino, promptly went down injured with his hammy. Another key player gone, another weaker replacement thrown into a side already being held together with tape and hopeful thinking.

Millwall eventually won 2-0, despite the shot count finishing level at 7-7. Naturally, all seven Millwall attempts were on target. Chelsea had now faced two consecutive Champions League opponents who apparently considered shooting wide a personal insult.

Across those games, Madrid and Millwall managed 11 shots, all 11 on target. Between the goalkeeping disruption, the injuries and that remarkable accuracy, Chelsea could be forgiven for feeling they had caught absolutely nothing in the way of a break.

Still, Gaz should probably keep the quarter-final celebrations on ice.

Millwall are big favourites at 2-0 up, and all the pressure now sits with them to finish the job without soiling the bed at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea have a difficult task, but two goals can be recovered. Should the tie reach extra time, that too will be played on Chelsea’s home turf. Perhaps if Chelsea can get to extra time, Milwall will crumble before our very eyes.

There is enough left in this one to make the visitors uncomfortable.

Penders finally returned for the Round 20 visit of Liverpool, although Gnonto remained absent. The return of a proper goalkeeper was welcome; the result rather less so.

A level 13-13 shot count ended in a 3-1 Liverpool win, extending a miserable spell for the Spice Boys. Liverpool are a strong side whose struggles this season look misleading, and Chelsea’s view is that they will climb the table considerably. It would simply have been nice if their recovery had started somewhere else.

Next comes Crystal Palace, with Chelsea finally expecting everyone to be fit and Talbot hoping to put this wretched run behind him.

Unfortunately, Palace have had Chelsea’s number in recent seasons.

Perhaps hold off putting any money on that fresh start starting just yet.

CHELSEA PAY THE PRICE FOR CUBARSI AS TALBOT LANDS LONG TIME TARGET

Just under a month after Pau Cubarsi arrived at Chelsea, the size of the deal still catches the eye. C_Richards, R_Lewis and £35 million went to Atalanta in exchange for the young Spaniard. Even by Steve Talbot’s standards, who is known to sometimes overpay and paradoxically at other times, sometimes be very calculating and frugal, this was a serious commitment.

The Chelsea manager had been chasing Cubarsi for some time, and when an opportunity finally arose, he was prepared to pay what it took to put Cubarsi in the blue kit of Chelsea.

Pau_Cubarsi 20 esp 1 23 21 3 22 1 924 184 888

At just 20, Cubarsi brings a combination of defensive quality and passing ability that made him an obvious target for the Spice Boys. With tackling already approaching 24 and passing above 21, he has the attributes and the correct profile with his low shot, to contribute immediately, alongside plenty of years to develop even further.

That potential came at a considerable cost. Losing Richards and Lewis meant giving up two solid and very good players who had been performing well for Chelsea to secure one which weakens Chelsea's strength in depth, while the additional £35 million took Chelsea out of the running for the recent mid season auction that went down during the mid season break. Talbot watched that particular bidding war from the sidelines with his fingers crossed that nobody too good would be on that list. There was somebody good on the list in Brown, but he went for gazillions to Man Utd, and Talbot believes Cubarsi is a better player anyway. So all good on that front.

Chelsea, however, will count Cubarsi as their "auction level" signing. They have already committed their resources to a player they know they wanted, rather than waiting to see what might become available and is always a hit or miss situation in an auction environment.

Getting him out of Atalanta was always going to require a substantial offer. James Howl is an excellent manager, he has won the ESMS Go World Cup recently and is a veteran of the wider ESMS world being respected in SSL2001 and before that the UCFL, and the package heading in the opposite direction reflects the value that needed to be placed on one of his prized young players in order for him to finally, let him go.

This was an expensive agreement, but one that gave both clubs something significant to work with, and both clubs walked away from the deal very happy. A by product of a deal with Talbot that I'm told (by Talbot) happens 99.99% of the time. Any negotiations with Talbot and Chelsea, are quick, straight forward and a plesant experience from begining to end and I'm sure Mr Howl would agree with those sentiments.

For Talbot, finally getting the deal over the line was particularly satisfying after a lengthy pursuit of his man. Cubarsi fitted the profile exactly that he had been searching for, young, technically strong, a good passer of the ball out from the back while leaving the shooting to the more capable players at the other end of the pitch, and will surely become a corner stone and major part of Chelsea’s future going forward.

The fee ensures expectations will be high. Cubarsi will have to justify the players, money and auction opportunity sacrificed to bring him to South West London.

The talent, though, is undeniable. The Spice Boys have another exciting young addition, and like The Mountie, Talbot has finally got his man.

Ryan Field admits Wolfsburg's rise to EFL1 summit has surprised even him Wolfsburg manager Ryan Field has admitted he never expected to find his side sitting at the top of EFL1 in their first season following promotion from EFL2. Field's Wolfsburg side have taken to the higher division in remarkable fashion, with the newly promoted club currently sitting at the summit and leaving the manager himself somewhat stunned by their progress. Speaking to the media, Field was asked whether he expected Wolfsburg to be challenging at the top of the table so soon after promotion. "Absolutely not," Field admitted. "When we got promoted from EFL2, the first thing on my mind was making sure we could compete in EFL1. We wanted to establish ourselves, pick up enough points and give ourselves a chance of staying in the division." "I certainly wasn't sitting there thinking we'd be top of the league in our first season." Field believes the biggest surprise has been just how quickly his players have adapted to the step up in quality. "EFL1 is a different level. You know you're going to be tested every week, and there are some very good sides in this division." "But the players have been fantastic. They've taken on everything we've asked of them and, so far, they've shown that they belong here."

Union Berlin 2–1 AFC Monaco Monaco’s search for consistency continues

AFC Monaco manager Peter Southcott is still searching for the right formula to bring consistency to his side’s EFL 2 campaign, and another tactical reshuffle failed to produce the desired result as Monaco slipped to a 2–1 defeat away to Union Berlin.

Once again, Southcott tinkered with his tactics in an attempt to find the winning combination. For long spells, the changes appeared to be paying dividends, with Monaco looking organised and dangerous enough to suggest that a positive result was within reach.

That optimism finally turned into something tangible just two minutes after the restart.

⚽ 47' — Van Persie (PEN), 0–1

Monaco were awarded a penalty shortly after half-time, and Van Persie showed the composure expected from a player of his quality, calmly converting from the spot to give the visitors the lead.

At 1–0, Monaco had the advantage and seemingly had the platform to control the remainder of the contest.

Unfortunately for Southcott, that proved to be the high point of the afternoon.

⚽ 64' — A. Theate, 1–1

Union Berlin responded with purpose and eventually found their way back into the match through A. Theate in the 64th minute.

The equaliser changed the momentum. Monaco, who had looked comfortable with the lead, suddenly found themselves under increasing pressure as the home side sensed an opportunity to turn the game around.

⚽ 77' — D. Fofana, 2–1

That turnaround arrived 13 minutes later.

D. Fofana struck in the 77th minute to complete Union Berlin's comeback and put the hosts 2–1 ahead.

Monaco were unable to find an answer during the closing stages, leaving Southcott once again contemplating what might have been.

Full-time: Union Berlin 2–1 AFC Monaco

For Monaco, the result neatly encapsulates the frustration of the current campaign. There were encouraging signs, another tactical experiment showed promise, and Van Persie put the team in front — but ultimately the side couldn't turn a promising position into points.

The search for consistency continues.

Southcott may have another tactical formula to consider before the next fixture. At this rate, the AFC Monaco tactics board is going to need its own squad registration.

Brentford legend Ridle Baku will be honoured before and after the Championship clash at home to Bristol City on Friday night.

The rampaging right-back will notch his 246th and final appearance before he departs for Premiership club Southampton this weekend.

Brentford chairman Cliff Crown plans to give the fans ample opportunity to give a final farewell to the 30-year-old.

"Ridle has given so much to us in the years he's been with us." Crown said in a pre-match press conference. "We will hold a ceremony before the game to commemorate his impeccable service to this football club."

"We will also hold a lap of honour after the game for Ridle so he can take in our fans gratitude first-hand."

Brentford manager Craig Pritchard agreed that the German full-back was deserving of adulation.

"He's a truly world-class defender and a terrific human being." Pritchard said. "There won't be many players who play over 200 times for Brentford and he could have easily left us for a bigger club, but he stayed with us to try and build our club up. No matter the final score on Friday, he deserves to be recognised and remembered as one of the greats."

Pritchard believes, however, the time is right for Baku to make his move and for Brentford to get behind their new signing, Christian Chivu.

"We will miss Ridle but the time is right for all parties to move on. Ridle could compete in the Champions League soon with Southampton and we will gain an excellent young defender in Christian Chivu. The fans will love Ridle but in time they will love Christian, as well."

The halfway mark of the season is upon us, I thought it might be interesting to do some analysis of who is overachieving, and who is underachieving in their respective domestic leagues. No? Well, I've done it anyway (and now for the second tier).

The system was to compare the current league position to a team's objective finish, current wage position, last season's league finish and last season's mid-season position, which then created an xPosition (relative to the other 19 clubs in the division). Weighting was split equally between the four metrics, and wages were taken post-auction (I just wasn't organised enough to do this bit before, so it slightly clouds the numbers as auction players are yet to represent their side in a game).

Not being at the top isn't an indicator of having a bad season, but it is harder for the sides with a higher expected position to overachieve (by definition). It also only takes positional places into account rather than points achieved at this stage.

Championship

1. Sunderland - 1st (xPosition 19th)

2. Watford - 2nd (xPosition 18th)

3. Stockport County - 5th (xPosition 17th)

4. Bristol City - 7th (xPosition 14th)

5. Birmingham City - 13th (xPosition 20th)

6. Ipswich - 11th (xPosition 15th)

7. Cardiff City - 9th (xPosition 11th)

8. Middlesbrough - 3rd (xPosition 4th)

9. Coventry City - 10th (xPosition 8th)

10. Wolves - 4th (xPosition 1st)

11. West Brom - 19th (xPosition 16th)

12. Wrexham - 6th (xPosition 2nd)

13. Brentford - 16th (xPosition 12th)

14. Barnsley - 8th (xPosition 3rd)

15. Everton - 12th (xPosition 7th)

16. Bournemouth - 18th (xPosition 13th)

17. Huddersfield Town - 17th (xPosition 10th)

18. Leicester City - 14th (xPosition 5th/6th)

19. Brighton & Hove Albion - 15th (xPosition 5th/6th)

20. Sheffield United - 20th (xPosition 9th)

EFL 2

1. Sevilla - 10th (xPosition 20th)

2. Union Berlin - 4th (xPosition 11th/12th)

3. RB Leipzig - 3rd (xPosition 9th/10th)

4. Athletic Bilbao - 1st (xPosition 6th)

5. Rennes - 15th (xPosition 18th)

6. RB Salzburg - 13th (xPosition 15th)

7. Ajax - 7th (xPosition 8th)

8. Valencia - 18th (xPosition 19th)

9. Schalke 04 - 5th (xPosition 5th)

10. PSV - 12th (xPosition 11th/12th)

11. AC Milan - 2nd (xPosition 1st)

12. Real Betis - 14th (xPosition 13th)

13. Napoli - 16th (xPosition 14th)

14. Monaco - 19th (xPosition 17th)

15. Benfica - 6th (xPosition 3rd)

16. Sparta Prague - 8th (xPosition 4th)

17. FC Porto - 11th (xPosition 7th)

18. Lyon - 20th (xPosition 16th)

19. Real Sociedad - 9th (xPosition 2nd)

20. Feyenoord - 17th (xPosition 9th/10th)

The halfway mark of the season is upon us, I thought it might be interesting to do some analysis of who is overachieving, and who is underachieving in their respective domestic leagues. No? Well, I've done it anyway.

The system was to compare the current league position to a team's objective finish, current wage position, last season's league finish and last season's mid-season position, which then created an xPosition (relative to the other 19 clubs in the division). Weighting was split equally between the four metrics, and wages were taken post-auction (I just wasn't organised enough to do this bit before, so it slightly clouds the numbers as auction players are yet to represent their side in a game).

Not being at the top isn't an indicator of having a bad season, but it is harder for the sides with a higher expected position to overachieve (by definition). It also only takes positional places into account rather than points achieved at this stage.

Premiership

1. Blackburn Rovers - 5th (xPosition 15th/16th) 2. Tottenham Hotspur - 3rd (xPosition 10th) 3. Crystal Palace - 6th (xPosition 13th) 4. Stoke City - 14th (xPosition 20th) 5. Chelsea - 1st (xPosition 6th) 6. Norwich - 4th (xPosition 7th) 7. Arsenal - 2nd (xPosition 4th/5th) 8. Southampton - 10th (xPosition 12th) 9. Fulham - 17th (xPosition 18th/19th) 10. West Ham - 8th (xPosition 8th) 11. Millwall - 12th (xPosition 11th) 12. Nottingham Forest - 18th (xPosition 17th) 13. Newcastle United - 20th (xPosition 18th/19th) 14. Portsmouth - 16th (xPosition 14th) 15. Aston Villa - 19th (xPosition 15th/16th) 16. Manchester City - 7th (xPosition 3rd) 17. Burnley - 13th (xPosition 9th) 18. Leeds United - 11th (xPosition 4th/5th) 19. Manchester United - 9th (xPosition 1st) 20. Liverpool - 15th (xPosition 2nd)

EFL1

1. Wolfsburg - 2nd (xPosition 19th/20th) 2. Bayer Leverkusen - 10th (xPosition 18th) 3. Borussia Dortmund - 1st (xPosition 7th-10th) 4. Marseille - 11th (xPosition 14th/15th) 5. Juventus - 8th (xPosition 11th) 6. Atalanta - 17th (xPosition 19th/20th) 7. Lens - 14th (xPosition 16th) 8. Rangers - 7th (xPosition 7th-10th) 9. Sporting Lisbon - 13th (xPosition 13th) 10. Roma - 6th (xPosition 5th) 11. Real Madrid - 3rd (xPosition 2nd) 12. Atletico Madrid - 5th (xPosition 3rd) 13. Shakhtar Donetsk - 20th (xPosition 17th) 14. PSG - 4th (xPosition 1st) 15. Bayern Munich - 12th (xPosition 7th-10th) 16. Lazio - 16th (xPosition 12th) 17. Barcelona - 19th (xPosition 14th/15th) 18. Fiorentina - 9th (xPosition 4th) 19. Celtic - 15th (xPosition 7th-10th) 20. Inter Milan - 18th (xPosition 6th)

Second tier to follow...

Today is a massive day for FFO. All 80 clubs now have a manager.

That means 80 managers picking teams, making transfers, developing players and competing every week. Every division is full and every club has someone running it.

Plenty of people have written off ESMS over the years. We’ve heard that it’s outdated, that leagues like FFO are a dying breed and that younger people wouldn’t be interested.

Well, FFO is proving otherwise.

A lot of our recent arrivals are between 16 and 25 years old. They’re getting involved in squad building, transfers, tactics and everything else that makes ESMS enjoyable.

That tells us ESMS isn’t only being kept alive by people who have played it for years. New managers are finding it, enjoying it and becoming part of the community.

Getting to 80 managers has taken a lot of work. The admins, staff, long-serving managers and newer members have all played a part. Every team sheet, transfer discussion and bit of activity has helped us reach this point.

Being full is a brilliant achievement, but the work doesn’t stop here. We want to keep improving FFO, keep managers involved and continue bringing new people into the game.

To everyone who has been here for years, thank you for sticking with us and helping build the league. To everyone who has joined recently, welcome to FFO. It’s great to have you with us. And to those who doubted FFO... Ill leave the next part of the sentence up to imagination

80 clubs. 80 managers. FFO is full, and we’re just getting started.

Sitting 3rd in EFL2 at the midpoint of the season, Leipzig isn't just maintaining pace we are gearing up massive play offs push. With our defencive spine locked down and internal upgrades sorted, Manager RG turned all attention toward the transfer market to pull off a stroke of financial and tactical genius.

The £68m Statement: Landing G_Garcia

In a nail biting auction finish, the club dropped a monster £68m bid to secure the 22 year old Spanish forward, edging out second place by a razor thin £1.8m margin. While rival managers across the league panicked and blew an extra £50m–£60m on top of market value just to beat out their own second highest bidders, Leipzig valued the player with surgical precision securing a marquee superstar without burning a single penny of unnecessary capital.

- The Profile: Arrives with 24 Shooting, 19 Passing, and 27 Aggression. - Head Start: Already boasts 586 Sab banked, putting him well on the path toward 25 Shooting. - The New Threat: Instantly gives us the highest raw Shooting stat on the roster, forming a lethal young duo alongside Yakubu (23 Sh).

Financial Precision: Romulo to Aston Villa

To fund our headline signing, Manager RG orchestrated a brilliant piece of business off the pitch. Personal terms have been agreed with Aston Villa for the sale of Romulo for £47.5m.

The Math: Flipping Romulo (who needed a massive 991 Abs just to hit 24 Sh) for £47.5m means our effective net cost to upgrade directly to Garcia (already 24 Sh) is a mere £20.5m.

Roster Efficiency: Instead of keeping an expensive, depreciating asset on the bench, we flipped him into immediate superstar production while keeping our long term finances remarkably healthy.

Internal Foundations Locked In

While the headline transfers stole the show, the foundation for our second half push was secured entirely from within:

- GK Crisis Defused: The promotion of 20 year old academy prospect T_Sorenson (25 St) at EOS completely secures our goalkeeping depth behind L_Gunter (28 St). - Captain’s Boost: Newly appointed Captain L_Gunter bags the +500 Abs bonus, accelerating his path to becoming an absolute un scrubbable wall between the posts. - On the Horizon: Looking ahead to the end of the season, Kleberson (17 Tk, 21 Ps, 20 Agg) will return from his loan spell to give us an elite, high upside long term option alongside single pivot anchor C_Doucoure or he will be loaned out to a EFL1 or Prem team.

Auf Geht’s, Leipzig!​ ​

Sitting 3rd in EFL2 at the midpoint of the season, Leipzig isn't just maintaining pace we are gearing up massive play offs push. With our defencive spine locked down and internal upgrades sorted, Manager RG turned all attention toward the transfer market to pull off a stroke of financial and tactical genius.

The £68m Statement: Landing G_Garcia

In a nail biting auction finish, the club dropped a monster £68m bid to secure the 22 year old Spanish forward, edging out second place by a razor thin £1.8m margin. While rival managers across the league panicked and blew an extra £50m–£60m on top of market value just to beat out their own second highest bidders, Leipzig valued the player with surgical precision securing a marquee superstar without burning a single penny of unnecessary capital.

- The Profile: Arrives with 24 Shooting, 19 Passing, and 27 Aggression. - Head Start: Already boasts 586 Sab banked, putting him well on the path toward 25 Shooting. - The New Threat: Instantly gives us the highest raw Shooting stat on the roster, forming a lethal young duo alongside Yakubu (23 Sh).

Financial Precision: Romulo to Aston Villa

To fund our headline signing, Manager RG orchestrated a brilliant piece of business off the pitch. Personal terms have been agreed with Aston Villa for the sale of Romulo for £47.5m.

The Math: Flipping Romulo (who needed a massive 991 Abs just to hit 24 Sh) for £47.5m means our effective net cost to upgrade directly to Garcia (already 24 Sh) is a mere £20.5m.

Roster Efficiency: Instead of keeping an expensive, depreciating asset on the bench, we flipped him into immediate superstar production while keeping our long term finances remarkably healthy.

Internal Foundations Locked In

While the headline transfers stole the show, the foundation for our second half push was secured entirely from within:

- GK Crisis Defused: The promotion of 20 year old academy prospect T_Sorenson (25 St) at EOS completely secures our goalkeeping depth behind L_Gunter (28 St). - Captain’s Boost: Newly appointed Captain L_Gunter bags the +500 Abs bonus, accelerating his path to becoming an absolute un scrubbable wall between the posts. - On the Horizon: Looking ahead to the end of the season, Kleberson (17 Tk, 21 Ps, 20 Agg) will return from his loan spell to give us an elite, high upside long term option alongside single pivot anchor C_Doucoure or he will be loaned out to a EFL1 or Prem team.

Auf Geht’s, Leipzig!​ ​

When the season started, most Borussia Dortmund fans would have taken a top 8 finish and called it a good year. Nobody - not the most optimistic voice here at Echte Liebe Letters - would have put their name to the performance the Black & Yellow have mustered so far, as FFO enters its mid-season break.

Top of EFL1 with 40 points and 3 clear of second. First place in the DPT group stage with a near perfect record. This has been a superb first half of Season 8 for BVB. The Yellow Wall knows it too: there is an energy around Westfalenstadion that comes not from mere hope but from watching a team that is genuinely performing to a standard seen only at the very top levels of FFO. The games keep coming and Dortmund it seems (with some notable exceptions), keep winning.

Key players have led the charge. Bradley Barcola is showing why he is considered one of the most dangerous forwards in football: the Frenchman has an impressive 18 goals in all competitions, six Man of the Match awards, and a 17% shot conversion rate in EFL1. Perhaps only PSG’s Erling Haaland and Arsenal’s Harvey Barnes can claim to be in more lethal form.

Jhon Duran has added 11 goals, Saka 10. Between them, the trio have driven everything good about this Dortmund attack. Behind them, Nico Gonzalez has quietly produced one of the great midfield spells in the club's recent history – 67 key passes, a rate over 2 per game, and a figure that leads the squad by a distance. Willian Pacho, in his first season in FFO football, has been exactly the transformative signing the auction fee demanded: 50 key passes from the back, five assists, and a composure that has changed how this team builds from the back.

The European campaign too has been truly dominant. Seven wins from seven in the DPT group secured top spot, before a late stumble against Southampton on the final inconsequential matchday. Eighteen goals, seven conceded. Dortmund go into the knockout rounds as group winners and genuine contenders.

Chris Mason, characteristically, still refuses to get carried away. "I'm obviously very proud of what the players have produced so far. But nineteen games is not a season. The sides that win things do so over the full thirty-eight, and they certainly don’t stop to celebrate any achievements at halfway.”

“Everything we've done so far will mean nothing if we can't deliver all the way to the end of the season. It’s something I’m impressing upon the lads every day – we take this one game at a time, we maintain the levels, we keep fighting. We don’t look further forward, and we don’t look back – there’ll be plenty of time for that after Round 38."

Mason is right of course. EFL1 remains anyone’s to claim - Wolfsburg are just three points behind with the same goal difference. Real Madrid one point further but haven't lost in 11 matches. PSG and Atletico each have more than enough quality in their squads to eat up the gap fast with a strong run of form. The second half will be harder, and Dortmund will be tested to their absolute limit. The fixture schedule looks particularly brutal - 5 of 7 matchups against sides currently in the Champions League spots will be played away from home. That's on top of the extra away game they will play having hosted an extra one at Westfalenstadion during the first half of the season. A trip to the Bernabéu awaits in the EFL Cup third round as well.

None of this diminishes what has been done. But the break is a pause for breath, nothing more. The positive is that no reset is needed, Dortmund simply must go back to work and will do so knowing exactly what is at stake – with Echte Liebe still their fuel to hopefully deliver success to the Yellow Wall.

AFC Monaco left Germany empty-handed as tactical errors and another costly lapse in discipline contributed to a frustrating 1–0 defeat against RB Leipzig.

Manager Peter Southcott will feel this was a game Monaco could have approached very differently. Having seemingly prepared for the wrong opposition entirely, the tactics intended to counter Leipzig were never implemented, with an inferior approach taking their place. Against a side of Leipzig's quality, Monaco were always going to be punished for such mistakes.

And yet, despite the tactical shortcomings, Monaco somehow managed to keep the damage to a minimum.

A solitary Yakubu goal was enough to settle the contest, giving Leipzig a deserved victory but leaving Monaco with at least a respectable scoreline to take home. The German side were unable to turn their advantage into a more convincing margin, with Monaco's players showing enough resilience to keep themselves within touching distance for much of the game.

Unfortunately for Southcott, the manager's tactical frustrations were compounded by a familiar problem: discipline.

H_Clark's second yellow card brought his afternoon to an abrupt end, sending the Monaco player for an early bath before half-time. Reduced to ten men, Monaco's task went from difficult to bordering on impossible, particularly against a Leipzig side already enjoying the advantage.

Southcott will undoubtedly be frustrated. Getting the tactical preparation wrong against a dangerous opponent is one thing; making life even harder for yourself through an unnecessary sending-off is quite another.

The irony is that Monaco's performance after the setback demonstrated that the team had enough about them to avoid being embarrassed. Despite playing away from home, despite the tactical mismatch and despite spending the latter stages a man down, they restricted Leipzig to just the one goal.

That will offer some encouragement, but ultimately it is little consolation.

AFC Monaco return home with no points, knowing that this was a game in which better preparation and greater discipline could have produced a very different result. Southcott now has two obvious issues to address: getting his tactical homework right next time, and somehow convincing his players that yellow cards are not collectible trading cards.

For now, though, Yakubu's goal is enough to give RB Leipzig all three points.

Final score: RB Leipzig 1–0 AFC Monaco

Goals: ⚽ Yakubu — RB Leipzig

Red card: 🟥 H_Clark — AFC Monaco (second yellow)

AFC Monaco 1–1 Sunderland FFO Vase — Match Report

Monaco Earn Hard-Fought Point After Late Brooks Equaliser

AFC Monaco manager Peter Southcott continued his experimentation with the squad and formation as the club searched for a way to drag points from somewhere — anywhere — in the FFO Vase. With Monaco currently occupying the unwanted title of weakest team in FFO, every point is precious, and against fellow strugglers Sunderland, there was a genuine opportunity to claim one.

With Quaresma suspended, Monaco were forced to shuffle the pack once again. The changes appeared to have the desired effect defensively, with Monaco keeping things tight and frustrating Sunderland throughout the opening half.

Neither side could find a breakthrough before the interval, and the teams went into the dressing rooms with the score 0–0.

The second half, however, was a different story.

Both managers began making changes in an attempt to influence the game, and just three minutes after the restart Sunderland finally broke Monaco's resistance. Omari unleashed a spectacular 48th-minute pile driver, giving the Monaco goalkeeper absolutely no chance and putting Sunderland 1–0 ahead.

Monaco refused to fold. Southcott's side battled on with the resources available to them, searching for a way back into the contest. For long periods, though, it looked as if Sunderland's goal would be enough.

Then, with 12 minutes remaining, Southcott rolled the tactical dice.

On 78 minutes, Monaco changed both personnel and approach, pushing Brooks further forward in the hope that a more attacking setup could produce something. And produce something it did.

Just two minutes later, Brooks found the breakthrough Monaco desperately needed, firing home to make it 1–1.

Well… eventually.

The goal was subjected to what felt like an agonisingly long VAR review, leaving everyone inside the stadium wondering whether they were about to celebrate or suffer another cruel twist. Eventually, VAR arrived at the correct decision and the equaliser stood.

1–1.

Monaco held on to secure a valuable point, and while it wasn't the three points Southcott and his players would have dreamed of, it was a result that demonstrated plenty of character.

The tactical reshuffle had worked. Brooks' advanced position had paid dividends. And, most importantly, Monaco had refused to accept defeat.

Man of the Match: Clark

Defender Clark picked up the Man of the Match award after an excellent all-round performance. With Monaco forced to remain disciplined for much of the game, Clark played a key role in keeping Sunderland at bay and provided the defensive foundation that ultimately allowed Monaco to fight their way back into the match.

Final Score

AFC Monaco 1–1 Sunderland

Goals: 48' Omari (Sunderland) 80' Brooks (Monaco)

Man of the Match: Clark (Monaco)

One point gained, another experiment to add to the Southcott tactical laboratory, and — perhaps most importantly — a reminder that this Monaco side isn't going down without a fight.

Huddersfield manger was unable to say why his team are preforming so well in the FFO Vase yet are still struggling to get the same sort of performance in their league games. This follows the team 6-1 away win at Rennes. This makes it 5 win 1 draw and 1 defeat in this seasons competition. Scoring 18 times and only allowing 8 goals into there net. They sit at the top of the table and have already qualified for the knock out rounds.

This form has not been replicated in the league this season with the team sitting 17th after 17 games of the season. They have only won 3 game with 4 draws and 10 defeats. They have only scored 16 goals whilst allowing 36 into there net. There has been an improvement in their last few games but the still sit well below where they are expected to finish. The manager can only hope that they will convert the cup form into league wins in the second half of the season and get the team to a higher league position.

Bayern boss responds to recent claims by other managers across the leagues.

Firstly, the drama around Ron Vlaar. Monaco boss claims to be shocked and devastated yet didn't respond for four days so the club decided to recall and sell Ron Vlaar. The Bayern boss has said "check your messages, mate" in response to the outrage the recall has caused. Bayern have now also sent back Prcic who was part of the initial loan deal and do apologise for the delay of that aspect of the transaction.

In other news, Ant Harris has claimed he doesn't even know what a Guler is, so certainly would not have bid on a player who is so unknown to him. Sounds a bit like a Turkish Delight.

The Bayern boss is said to be accessing his legal options in response to the fabrication of these news reports.

In other Bayern news, a somewhat controversial deal sees German Adeyemi leave, with a not so good player in return, Bryan Mbeumo. It will be interesting to see how Mbeumo goes in a tougher league. Can he make the step up? Well, he scores on debut in an emphatic Monday night victory.

Romero has come in too, with rumours circulating he will be a very short stay, as Bayern seem to be ditching their under 25 year old approach this season, with a 31 year old signed. One game in - and he has improved his passing. Good moves? Time will tell.

🔴⚪ AFC MONACO NEWSLETTER Frustration in the Principality as Monaco Hold Benfica to a Point A brave performance earns a point — but Southcott will feel two points were left on the pitch

There was plenty to admire about AFC Monaco’s latest outing against high-flying Benfica, but manager Peter Southcott was left with that familiar footballing feeling: it could — and probably should — have been so much better.

Having recently tweaked his tactics and rearranged his attacking priorities, Southcott was initially delighted with the response from his players. Monaco looked purposeful, dangerous and willing to take the game to one of the league’s form sides.

And then, naturally, football decided to add some chaos.

🚀 Van Persie brings the thunder

Monaco made the perfect start on 15 minutes when Robin van Persie produced an absolute thunderbolt.

From around 30 yards, Van Persie unleashed a strike that flew beyond the Benfica goalkeeper and into the net. It was the sort of goal that makes you briefly wonder whether the laws of physics have been amended without telling anyone.

Monaco 1–0 Benfica.

The lead, however, lasted just ten minutes.

And if Van Persie thought his effort was special, Rivaldo apparently took it personally.

🎯 Rivaldo says: “Hold my drink.”

On 25 minutes, Rivaldo went one better — quite literally.

The Benfica star unleashed a ridiculous 40-yard effort that left Monaco helpless and restored parity.

1–1.

Two goals. Seventy yards of combined shooting range. Two increasingly bewildered goalkeepers.

Unfortunately for Monaco, that wasn't the end of the drama.

🟥 Quaresma sees red

Young loanee Quaresma was shown a second yellow card, reducing Monaco to ten men.

Whether the youngster was feeling hard done by or simply thought the first booking was lonely, the result was the same: an early shower and a very different tactical challenge for Southcott.

Suddenly, the newly revamped Monaco attacking plan had to be thrown out of the window and replaced with:

“Everyone defend. And nobody do anything stupid.”

⚡ Clark strikes immediately after the restart

Despite being a man down, Monaco stunned Benfica just one minute into the second half.

On 46 minutes, Clark found the breakthrough to restore Monaco's lead.

Monaco 2–1 Benfica.

Ten men. Pressure mounting. High-flying opposition.

And Monaco were winning.

For a while, it looked like Southcott's tactical reshuffle was about to produce one of the results of the campaign.

😬 Nesyri has the final word

Benfica weren't finished, though.

On 67 minutes, Nesyri finally found a way through the Monaco defence, bringing the scores level once again.

2–2.

With Monaco down to ten men, the final stages became a test of character rather than tactical artistry.

And to their immense credit, the players dug in.

🛡️ Monaco hold firm

Despite the numerical disadvantage and relentless pressure, Monaco refused to fold.

They defended bravely, battled for every ball and ultimately secured a valuable point against one of the league's high-flying sides.

On the face of it, 2–2 against Benfica with ten men is a result that should be welcomed.

But that's precisely where the frustration lies.

Southcott: Frustrated, but proud

Manager Peter Southcott can take plenty of positives from the performance.

The tactical changes appeared to have worked. The attacking rearrangement produced goals. Monaco showed enormous character after the sending-off and twice took the lead against a very strong Benfica side.

But the nagging feeling remains.

This could have been three points.

Monaco led twice. They scored a 30-yard screamer, survived a 40-yard wondergoal, went down to ten men and still managed to take the lead again.

A point is respectable.

A point against Benfica with ten men is arguably a good result.

But after the way Monaco performed?

It feels like two points slipped through their fingers.

MONACO LEFT FUMING AS VLAAR RECALL COMES OUT OF THE BLUE Southcott frustrated after Bayern Munich recall is revealed through league channels

MONACO — AFC Monaco manager Peter Southcott has been left frustrated after discovering that defender R. Vlaar had been recalled by parent club Bayern Munich — not through direct communication between the clubs, but via the league.

The unexpected development has left Southcott particularly disappointed given the Dutchman’s importance to his plans since taking charge at Monaco.

Vlaar had featured in the vast majority of Monaco's matches during his loan spell, becoming a regular presence in the side. His only absence under Southcott came in the opening match of the new manager's tenure — a decision Southcott subsequently apologised for.

Since then, the Monaco boss had made his intentions abundantly clear.

Vlaar played every minute thereafter.

Southcott had seemingly settled on the defender as a key part of his plans, making the sudden recall all the more disruptive.

The Monaco manager is understood to be particularly unhappy with the manner in which the situation unfolded. Rather than receiving advance notification from Bayern Munich or having the matter communicated directly between the clubs, Southcott discovered the cancellation of the loan through the league.

For a manager attempting to establish his squad and build momentum, the timing could hardly be more inconvenient.

Southcott's frustration is not understood to stem from Bayern Munich exercising their right to recall their player, but rather from the lack of communication surrounding the decision.

Having apologised for leaving Vlaar out of his first match and subsequently selecting him for every minute available, Southcott had clearly demonstrated just how highly he valued the defender.

Now, without warning, Monaco have been forced to adjust their plans.

The incident also raises questions about communication between clubs when loan agreements are terminated or players are recalled. Whatever the contractual position may have been, from Monaco's perspective the situation has been anything but ideal.

Southcott now faces the unenviable task of reshaping his defensive plans at short notice.

One thing, however, is clear: the Monaco manager would have preferred to hear about Vlaar's departure from Bayern Munich — rather than from the league.

And after finally finding a defender he trusted enough to play every minute, Southcott can be forgiven for feeling that the rug has been pulled from underneath him.

Possession counts for nothing as Van Persie and Ivanovic draw blanks, while Ter Stegen comes under fire

AFC Monaco manager Peter Southcott was left furious after his side suffered a humiliating 4–0 defeat away to Red Bull Salzburg, despite dominating possession and registering more shots than their hosts.

For Southcott, however, the statistics offered little consolation.

Monaco controlled large portions of the game, moving the ball around confidently and creating enough opportunities to suggest that a result was there for the taking. Unfortunately for the travelling side, football has a cruel habit of refusing to award points for attractive possession statistics.

And when the chances did arrive, Monaco's attacking stars Robin van Persie and Ivanovic appeared to have temporarily forgotten where the goal was.

The pair repeatedly failed to convert Monaco's opportunities, leaving Southcott increasingly frustrated as Salzburg ruthlessly punished their visitors at the other end.

But it was goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen who reportedly attracted the manager's particular ire.

Four goals conceded turned what should have been a competitive encounter into a rout, with Monaco's defensive organisation seemingly disappearing at precisely the moments they needed it most. Southcott was visibly unimpressed as Salzburg took advantage, leaving the Monaco boss with plenty to ponder on the journey home.

“We had more of the ball. We had more shots. And we lost 4–0. Explain that one to me.”

That, effectively, appears to be the question facing the Monaco manager.

Southcott is now considering a change of formation, hoping that a tactical reshuffle can somehow turn Monaco's impressive statistics into actual goals and, preferably, fewer goals conceded.

The alternative, however, is considerably more unconventional.

Sources close to the Monaco camp suggest that Southcott is seriously considering purchasing a rabbit's foot from Amazon in the hope that supernatural intervention might finally provide his strikers with the luck they desperately need.

Whether Southcott opts for tactical innovation or internet-based superstition remains to be seen.

One thing is certain: something has to change.

Monaco may have dominated the ball, fired more shots and looked statistically superior, but the scoreboard delivered the only statistic that ultimately mattered.

Red Bull Salzburg 4. AFC Monaco 0.

And somewhere in an Amazon warehouse, a rabbit's foot may have just become Monaco's most wanted signing.

EXCLUSIVE: Chelsea Reject Huge £175m Bayern Munich Approach for Arda Güler

Bayern Munich have seen a sensational approach worth close to £175 million for Chelsea star Arda Güler rejected, with Blues manager Steve Talbot making it clear the Turkish international is not for sale.

Sources close to Bayern have revealed that the German giants recently tested Chelsea's resolve over the 21 year-old, who has established himself as one of the most highly regarded young attacking players in world football.

Bayern are understood to have indicated they were prepared to table a package approaching £175m to take Güler to Germany.

However, sources suggest Bayern also explored an alternative route to a deal, with 26-year-old German international striker Karim Adeyemi believed to have been floated as part of a potential swap arrangement.

Chelsea's response to both proposals was emphatic.

Talbot is understood to have rejected the approaches point blank, with the Chelsea manager having no interest in either cashing in on Güler or exchanging him for Adeyemi.

Instead, sources at Stamford Bridge say Talbot has placed enormous faith in the youthful front four he believes can lead Chelsea for years to come.

That attack features 25-year-old Wilfried Gnonto, 22-year-old Ange-Yoan Bonny, Brazilian wonderkid Endrick, 20, and Güler himself.

Despite the enormous money potentially available, Chelsea believe breaking up that group now would make little sense. All four are either approaching or still some distance from their prime years, giving Talbot an attacking core capable of developing together while already competing at the highest level.

Bayern's willingness to discuss a figure approaching £175m underlines just how highly Güler is regarded across Europe, and further approaches cannot be ruled out.

But Chelsea's position could hardly be clearer.

Talbot has his front four.

And, as far as he is concerned, Arda Güler is not for sale.

Manchester United have confirmed Jason Fortune as their new manager, handing him the job of taking one of FFO’s biggest clubs forward.

Fortune arrives at Old Trafford with a huge task ahead of him. Expectations at United are never low, and the new boss will be expected to put his own stamp on the squad quickly as he prepares for life in the hot seat.

The appointment gives United a fresh start and adds another experienced name to the FFO managerial ranks.

All eyes will now turn to Fortune’s first moves. His squad decisions, transfer plans and tactical approach will give the first clues as to what the new Manchester United will look like under his management.

Chelsea - Big in Africa

Chelsea are top of the Premier League and, quite frankly, Africa has completely lost the plot.

From Lagos to Nairobi, Johannesburg to Accra and, obviously, the great nation of Wakanda, blue shirts of Chelsea are everywhere although they are mostly knock off cheap versions of the relica kits.

Chelsea were already massive across the Motherland, but the latest run under world famous manager Steve Talbot has apparently taken things to another level.

FFO officials are yet to release official African viewing figures, mainly because they probably don't exist, but sources close to absolutely nobody suggest Chelsea are now the most watched sporting institution on the African continent.

There are famous football managers. There are legendary football managers. And then there is Steve Talbot.

The Chelsea boss has reportedly reached such levels of fame in Africa that simply saying the words "Steve Talbot" in certain parts of Wakanda will result in somebody immediately replying "Up the Chels."

His tactical decisions are discussed in bars across Lagos. His team sheets are studied in Nairobi. Transfer rumours are debated in Johannesburg.

One completely unverified report even claims a newborn child in Ghana has recently been named "Steve Talbot Gnonto Chelsea Guler"

We cannot confirm this. We also haven't really tried. That's far too much professional journalistic work for our liking here in South West London. What we can confirm is that Talbot has Chelsea sitting top of the FFO Premier League, and that is really all the evidence anybody needs.

Blue Is the Colour

Chelsea's African connection goes back a long way.

Drogba. Essien. Mikel. Kalou.

These men helped turn Chelsea into a huge name across Africa, but FFO Chelsea are now carrying on that proud tradition by doing what Chelsea do best.

Winning football matches, spending outrageous amounts of money and upsetting everybody else on and off the pitch. The Spice Boys have become box office. Other FFO managers might have tactics. But when a Chelsea team sheet drops in the FFO mailbox, servers shake. When Chelsea make a transfer bid, financial markets react. When Steve Talbot changes formation, tactical analysts across three continents cancel their evening plans.

And when Chelsea lose? Usually the engine is investigated.

Scenes Across Wakanda

The scenes in Wakanda have apparently been particularly extraordinary.

Chelsea flags now hang alongside the national flag. Local markets are said to close early for big FFO fixtures and demand for blue face paint has reached levels not seen since the great title celebrations of Season 5.

There are even rumours that Wakanda's enormous reserves of vibranium could be used to fund Chelsea's next transfer window. Given recent Chelsea transfer fees (they love both spending and valuing seemingly all players in FFO at 150m), they'll probably need it.

A statue of Steve Talbot outside Wakanda Royal Palace has already been proposed. At 60 feet tall, the original design was apparently rejected for being "far too modest." The replacement is believed to be visible from neighbouring countries.

The Pride of the Motherland

For the millions, possibly billions, of Chelsea supporters across Africa, this is becoming another season to remember. Their beloved Blues are sitting at the top of the Premier League. The Spice Boys are cooking. Steve Talbot's worldwide fame continues to spiral completely out of control. And the rest of FFO can only watch with big green envious eyes. Forget London. Already conquered. Multiple consecutive seasons of being Gangs of London champions. Forget England. Prem. Already won. Tick.

Chelsea have gone international.

From Stamford Bridge to the streets of Wakanda, from the great cities of Africa to every corner of the FFO world, one message rings out, Steve Talbot's Blue Army. Top of the Prem. Pride of the Motherland.

Somewhere in Wakanda, the drums have started.

Chelsea must be playing.

Monaco Defy the Odds to Hold Stockport County

FFO Vase – Round 6

AFC Monaco 2–2 Stockport County

AFC Monaco produced a battling performance in Round 6 of the FFO Vase, holding Stockport County to a dramatic 2–2 draw against all expectations.

Facing their former caretaker manager, Monaco lined up in a disciplined 4-3-1-2 formation, looking to frustrate a Stockport side expected to control the contest. The tactical approach immediately paid dividends as Monaco refused to be overawed by their opponents.

Monaco struck first, with Robbie van Persie finding the breakthrough early in the match. Stockport, however, responded impressively and began to impose themselves on the game.

The standout performer of the afternoon, Fornals, turned the match on its head with a superb brace. His two goals gave Stockport a 2–1 advantage and put the favourites within touching distance of a famous Vase victory.

Monaco refused to surrender and pushed hard for an equaliser. With Stockport County defending desperately, it appeared the hosts might finally escape with all three points.

But in the 90th minute, Monaco defender Bazoer became the unlikely hero, finding the back of the net to level the scores at 2–2 and send the Monaco faithful into celebration.

With possession ending 50–50, the final result was ultimately a fair reflection of a fiercely contested encounter. Monaco may have entered the match as underdogs, but their organisation, determination and willingness to fight until the final whistle earned them a valuable point.

Final Score: AFC Monaco 2–2 Stockport County

Monaco Player of the Match: Fornals

Moment of the Match: Bazoer's 90th-minute equaliser

MANCHESTER — Manchester United are searching for a new manager after Steve Outten confirmed he is leaving FFO, bringing an outstanding 14-year spell in the game to an end.

Outten departs as the current third most decorated manager in FFO history, a record that underlines the impact he has made across more than a decade of competition.

End of an era

His departure leaves one of FFO’s biggest jobs vacant and closes the book on a managerial career that has spanned 14 years of title races, cup runs and rivalries.

For Manchester United, attention now turns immediately to what comes next. The club are expected to move quickly, with a new manager set to be appointed over the weekend.

Whoever takes the job will inherit the pressure that comes with Old Trafford — and the difficult task of following one of FFO’s most decorated managers.

Steve Outten leaves the game with his place in FFO history firmly secured.

MONACO — In a move that has sent shockwaves through ESL football, AS Monaco FC have confirmed the return of manager Peter Southcott, ending a lengthy hiatus from the dugout.

Southcott, once regarded as one of the game’s most intriguing managerial figures, has emerged from the shadows with a clear ambition: bring back the glory years to the Principality.

The appointment has immediately captured the imagination of supporters. Monaco have long been synonymous with attacking football, fearless young talent and dramatic nights under the lights at the Stade Louis-II. Now, Southcott believes the club can rediscover that identity.

“I didn’t come back for nostalgia,” Southcott told reporters. “I came back because I believe Monaco can win again.”

A manager with something to prove

Southcott’s extended absence from management has only added to the intrigue surrounding his return. While the football world moved on, the Monaco job remained one of the few capable of tempting him back.

The new manager has reportedly spent his time away studying the modern game, watching emerging talent and developing a vision for how Monaco can compete with the EFL2’s biggest clubs while remaining true to the club’s tradition of developing stars.

His message to the squad was reportedly simple.

“You are not here to be the next Monaco team. You are here to create the next Monaco era.”

The glory years beckon

For Monaco supporters, the phrase glory years carries considerable weight.

From title-winning sides to European adventures and the emergence of world-class players, Monaco have repeatedly demonstrated that they can punch far above their financial weight.

Southcott wants that reputation restored.

His philosophy is expected to revolve around aggressive attacking football, academy prospects, clever recruitment and giving young players the confidence to become stars rather than simply selling them before their story has truly begun.

But he knows the challenge will be enormous.

Paris Saint-Germain remain a dominant force domestically, while clubs across Europe are competing for the same elite young talent Monaco have traditionally cultivated.

“This club should be feared”

Speaking at his unveiling, Southcott appeared unconcerned by the pressure.

“Monaco should not be a club people enjoy playing against. It should be a club people fear playing against.”

That statement was met with loud applause from those gathered at the Stade Louis-II.

The manager also promised supporters that he would not attempt to copy Monaco’s past.

“We respect what came before us. But we aren’t going backwards. We’re going to build something new that people will one day call the glory years.”

A new chapter

Whether Southcott can turn those words into trophies remains to be seen.

But one thing is already clear: AS Monaco have their swagger back.

A manager has returned from the wilderness. A club is dreaming again. And somewhere beneath the lights of the Stade Louis-II, the possibility of another golden era is beginning to take shape.

Peter Southcott is back.

And Monaco are ready to believe.

FFO has completed its move to new hosting, bringing the main site and forum onto the new platform following the latest stage of the rebuild.

The migration moves FFO onto Krystal hosting and brings the rebuilt site fully onto ffomanager.com, with the refreshed navy-and-gold design now live across the main areas of the game.

More than a server move

The change is not just about where the site is hosted. The rebuilt FFO now has a cleaner structure for matchday, clubs, player tools, records and the new Finance Hub, while keeping the core ESMS experience intact.

The forum has also made the move, allowing the community to continue in the same place while the main site gains a more modern foundation for future features.

With the migration complete, development can now move back onto new features rather than infrastructure — including the News Hub currently being tested for the homepage.

Same FFO. New standard.

The new FFO News Archive is now live and ready to store stories that drop out of the main ten-article News Hub.

This is a temporary test article added purely to confirm that the archive page is reading valid JSON and displaying archived stories correctly.

How the archive works

When a new article is approved and all ten live News Hub slots are already occupied by real stories, the oldest live story is automatically moved into this archive.

If you can read this article on the archive page, the archive is working.