The TT Football Club

[Tiki-Taka]

Overall Spain didn't impress, only managing to draw against Greece, coming from behind to beat Georgia in injury time and beating kosovo tonight for the end of this international break. Fortunately it's the younger players Olmo and Ferran Torres who found the back of the net in both wins, with Pedri's performances for Barcelona earning him his first appearances for the national team. On another note, seeing Germans lose was a pleasant sight as always.

La Liga returns on the weekend, with all eyes on Sevilla vs Atletico Madrid on Sunday. If Cholo's men don't win in Andalusia, then Barcelona will have the chance to cut the gap to below three points and make it a title race. Sadly Real Madrid will be lurking in the mix as well but we have to be happy with the improvement of our form since the turn of the year. Atletico led by at least ten points earlier in the season with games in hand, and Real also had a seven or eight point advantage over Barca back in autumn. The picture is different now.

 

[Feña14]

Overall Spain didn't impress, only managing to draw against Greece, coming from behind to beat Georgia in injury time and beating kosovo tonight for the end of this international break. Fortunately it's the younger players Olmo and Ferran Torres who found the back of the net in both wins, with Pedri's performances for Barcelona earning him his first appearances for the national team. On another note, seeing Germans lose was a pleasant sight as always.

La Liga returns on the weekend, with all eyes on Sevilla vs Atletico Madrid on Sunday. If Cholo's men don't win in Andalusia, then Barcelona will have the chance to cut the gap to below three points and make it a title race. Sadly Real Madrid will be lurking in the mix as well but we have to be happy with the improvement of our form since the turn of the year. Atletico led by at least ten points earlier in the season with games in hand, and Real also had a seven or eight point advantage over Barca back in autumn. The picture is different now.

I don't know what to make of Germany. Coming off the disappointing World Cup last time, Low is leaving, don't seem to be playing that well with the Euro's rapidly approaching. You can never write Germany off, but this isn't what we're used to.

Looks like a good fight for La Liga this year! I've not been able to see any of it unfortunately. Atletico offered nothing against Chelsea though, it would seem they're there for the taking.

 

[Tiki-Taka]

I don't know what to make of Germany. Coming off the disappointing World Cup last time, Low is leaving, don't seem to be playing that well with the Euro's rapidly approaching. You can never write Germany off, but this isn't what we're used to.

Looks like a good fight for La Liga this year! I've not been able to see any of it unfortunately. Atletico offered nothing against Chelsea though, it would seem they're there for the taking.

They better find a solution fast. Especially being in the group of death with France and Portugal. Hard to imagine them being able to afford playing themselves into form at a slower pace. Although a lot of third ranked teams in the group will progress as well. That's how Portugal stayed alive last time and eventually went all the way.

Atletico were flying as high as ever but have frozen in the last couple of months or so. They looked out of ideas in some recent league games too. Oblak saving a late penalty in their last game is why the gap is four rather than two points now. Maybe pressure is doing its part. Pretty impressive how they won back in 2014 when there was never any big lead at the top in anyone's favor.

 

[Fabresque]

Congratulations to North Macedonia on winning 2-1 in Germany. Probably the biggest win in their history, shortly off the back of qualifying for the Euros for the first time. Sitting third in their group behind the Macedonians and Armenia, things aren't looking promising for the Germans ahead of a European Championships campaign in which the draw thrust them into a group of death alongside the world and European champions in France and Portugal, as well as a decent Hungarian side.

Macedonia* not North. Big win for the history of our country, but Germany was terrible.

 

[Hamnavoe]

Macedonia* not North. Big win for the history of our country, but Germany was terrible.

How do you feel about your chances going into the Euros?

 

[Feña14]

I see Haaland is doing the rounds in Spain. Feels a bit like when you're moving up to secondary school and go on a few open days, see where feels like a good fit.

Barcelona and Real Madrid today, with 3 more clubs on the list. They don't mention the clubs, City would obviously one, probably Man Utd. Maybe Juventus? Chelsea? PSG? The last one isn't clear cut.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

I see Haaland is doing the rounds in Spain. Feels a bit like when you're moving up to secondary school and go on a few open days, see where feels like a good fit.

Barcelona and Real Madrid today, with 3 more clubs on the list. They don't mention the clubs, City would obviously one, probably Man Utd. Maybe Juventus? Chelsea? PSG? The last one isn't clear cut.

Now you're bringing memories back. I was basically destined for the school around the corner.

I don't think the parent pressure would have anything to do with which school he decides to go to. The thing with Roy Keane really depends on what side of the story you're reading. Also, Roy is barely associated with United these days anyway. To be fair, he hasn't been since he left. It's just when you look at other players being celebrated by United. Yeah, we all know he was a great player but I think they can be short of recognition because of the way he left the club. Not that I think it really increases our chances much . haha

Back to Erling Haaland. Do you think this will be the summer he leaves Dortmund?

 

[Feña14]

Now you're bringing memories back. I was basically destined for the school around the corner.

I don't think the parent pressure would have anything to do with which school he decides to go to. The thing with Roy Keane really depends on what side of the story you're reading. Also, Roy is barely associated with United these days anyway. To be fair, he hasn't been since he left. It's just when you look at other players being celebrated by United. Yeah, we all know he was a great player but I think they can be short of recognition because of the way he left the club. Not that I think it really increases our chances much . haha

Back to Erling Haaland. Do you think this will be the summer he leaves Dortmund?

Same for me. I was destined to go to a high school, along with 95% of the kids at my junior school and all my friends. Went to an open day at a Catholic school, just for the fun of it, and ended up deciding I wanted to go there instead, even though i'd be going on my own, high chance of my application being rejected and having to go to the only one with places left (dodgy as hell, a teacher got knifed, situated in the middle of an estate known for drugs etc..). Fortunately I got into the Catholic school and I never regretted it once.

I'm hoping Haaland follows a similar path with his transfer. Forget the obvious options like Madrid and City, just because your Dad played there or because they're well known for throwing ridiculous money at the flavour of the month then treating them like crap when you're not in favour (Bale, James, Hazard etc..). Come to the club who never concede, create 20 chances a game but keep drawing 0-0 because this is our striker..

That's where you can make the biggest impact

But yes, I believe he will leave this summer. There's too much interest in him, Dortmund will only get a fraction of the fee next year if they were to wait, not to mention it's looking like they won't qualify for the Champions League. I'm pretty sure he's on his way, what you thinking? Sancho has been playing very well since the turn of the year also, i'm sure he'll be getting a lot of interest again too.

 

[AlexanderTheGreat08]

I see Haaland is doing the rounds in Spain. Feels a bit like when you're moving up to secondary school and go on a few open days, see where feels like a good fit.

Barcelona and Real Madrid today, with 3 more clubs on the list. They don't mention the clubs, City would obviously one, probably Man Utd. Maybe Juventus? Chelsea? PSG? The last one isn't clear cut.

This only seems realistic with Madrid , City and Barcelona. If he leaves , it’s for one of those.

Juventus doesn’t have the funds and they aren’t looking very attractive on the field either. PSG isn’t interested and he wouldn’t come here anyway , While we might have to replace Kylian soon , I don’t think we will throw all the money on that , considering we need to fill other positions. Chelsea and United? I don’t know , I thought United would be in for Sancho

 

[Feña14]

This only seems realistic with Madrid , City and Barcelona. If he leaves , it’s for one of those.

Juventus doesn’t have the funds and they aren’t looking very attractive on the field either. PSG isn’t interested and he wouldn’t come here anyway , While we might have to replace Kylian soon , I don’t think we will throw all the money on that , considering we need to fill other positions. Chelsea and United? I don’t know , I thought United would be in for Sancho

City could definitely afford it. They're talking like Madrid and Barcelona can too, but i'm not sure how. They certainly couldn't last year and I know the new president of Barcelona has said he will pursue Haaland, but what has changed since last year? Madrid still have the issue of big names on huge wages on the books (Barcelona too with Dembele, Coutinho). They're saying Madrid will need to sell 8 players to get the money, which doesn't seem realistic.

Who knows with football though, there always seems to be a way!

Haaland is coming to England today, apparently. He'll visit City, United, Liverpool and Chelsea. I wasn't even aware Liverpool were interested in him, but fair enough! He's certainly doing his homework

 

[stringertom]

City could definitely afford it. They're talking like Madrid and Barcelona can too, but i'm not sure how. They certainly couldn't last year and I know the new president of Barcelona has said he will pursue Haaland, but what has changed since last year? Madrid still have the issue of big names on huge wages on the books (Barcelona too with Dembele, Coutinho). They're saying Madrid will need to sell 8 players to get the money, which doesn't seem realistic.

Who knows with football though, there always seems to be a way!

Haaland is coming to England today, apparently. He'll visit City, United, Liverpool and Chelsea. I wasn't even aware Liverpool were interested in him, but fair enough! He's certainly doing his homework

OK, here’s how the final decision will be made: the Norwegian flag is a tricolor of Chelsea/Everton blue, MU/Liverpool red and Leeds white. All sides will abide by a series of coin tosses until, but only if necessary, Poppa Haaland breaks the tie with a stirring karaoke rendition of AC/DC’s Dirty Deeds. Bielsa rejoices!

 

[Poisoned Slice]

I think he's going to City.

 

[Feña14]

OK, here’s how the final decision will be made: the Norwegian flag is a tricolor of Chelsea/Everton blue, MU/Liverpool red and Leeds white. All sides will abide by a series of coin tosses until, but only if necessary, Poppa Haaland breaks the tie with a stirring karaoke rendition of AC/DC’s Dirty Deeds. Bielsa rejoices!

Maybe they should skip the draft this year? Covid and all that. Jerry Jones and Robert Kraft taking it in turns to do the Danny and Sandy duet from Summer Nights to see who gets Trevor Lawrence. It could work!

 

[Feña14]

I think he's going to City.

Alright, Captain obvious

I'm sure he'd be dominant for them, and the talent around him would adapt to it, but it would be interesting to see how they got on with a proper, old fashioned physical centre forward. Aguero has many strengths, but they're quite different to Haaland.

 

[stringertom]

Alright, Captain obvious

I'm sure he'd be dominant for them, and the talent around him would adapt to it, but it would be interesting to see how they got on with a proper, old fashioned physical centre forward. Aguero has many strengths, but they're quite different to Haaland.

Yes, the easier transition would be to Mbappe but who knows if that happens straightaway. Immediate upside, possibly the brute strength of Haaland might require adjustments from the EPL centre backs populace; long term Peppie Le Pew dreams probably would come to fruition better and longer with the PSG prodigy.

 

[stringertom]

Maybe they should skip the draft this year? Covid and all that. Jerry Jones and Robert Kraft taking it in turns to do the Danny and Sandy duet from Summer Nights to see who gets Trevor Lawrence. It could work!

Please don’t go there with NFL talk. That trade up by Saleh’s old bosses has me sick because NYJ hand is forced in the wrong direction unless they have some courage and take Pitts straight up at #2 and take their lumps temporarily with press/fans until they see how much a talent he is. 4.44 40 and 260 lbs does not happen...EVER.

 

[stringertom]

Same for me. I was destined to go to a high school, along with 95% of the kids at my junior school and all my friends. Went to an open day at a Catholic school, just for the fun of it, and ended up deciding I wanted to go there instead, even though i'd be going on my own, high chance of my application being rejected and having to go to the only one with places left (dodgy as hell, a teacher got knifed, situated in the middle of an estate known for drugs etc..). Fortunately I got into the Catholic school and I never regretted it once.

I'm hoping Haaland follows a similar path with his transfer. Forget the obvious options like Madrid and City, just because your Dad played there or because they're well known for throwing ridiculous money at the flavour of the month then treating them like crap when you're not in favour (Bale, James, Hazard etc..). Come to the club who never concede, create 20 chances a game but keep drawing 0-0 because this is our striker..

That's where you can make the biggest impact

But yes, I believe he will leave this summer. There's too much interest in him, Dortmund will only get a fraction of the fee next year if they were to wait, not to mention it's looking like they won't qualify for the Champions League. I'm pretty sure he's on his way, what you thinking? Sancho has been playing very well since the turn of the year also, i'm sure he'll be getting a lot of interest again too.

At least Werner is willing and able to sabotage his own national side in an even more spectacular flub.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

Alright, Captain obvious

I'm sure he'd be dominant for them, and the talent around him would adapt to it, but it would be interesting to see how they got on with a proper, old fashioned physical centre forward. Aguero has many strengths, but they're quite different to Haaland.

Yeah, I've read their stats on football manager, mate. I know they are different.

I just feel he's coming to the Premier League and we don't have a real chance. Of course, you mention the stats. Didn't Pep and Ibra have a fall-out at Barcelona? Maybe Haaland is not right for Pep. Maybe he is right for old coach Ole. haha Well, nice fantasy. Haaland is a dream, but the real hope is getting the defensive midfielder that doesn't take 2 spaces (Fred and McTominay, especially when McTominay isn't a legit dm.)

Can we really rule you guys out of signing him?

 

[Poisoned Slice]

Just incredible stats. Can say what you want about the German league but not everybody is producing a goal a game average.

''Haaland has become one of Europe's biggest names after scoring 48 goals in his first 48 games for the Bundesliga side, after joining from Red Bull Salzburg for just £17m at the end of 2019. ''

Daniel Levy has named his prize. 175m and no sale to premier league club.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

I'm looking at the sky sports team of the year thing. Jesse Lingard has worked his way into one of the chosen for selection. I'd say Bruno would have to be the only United player. The Premier League has more talented midfielders than I thought. haha I can put Shaw in and not feel like I'm cheating anybody. Most people say that Bruno is the best and then Shaw following that so it makes sense.

 

[Feña14]

Yeah, I've read their stats on football manager, mate. I know they are different.

I just feel he's coming to the Premier League and we don't have a real chance. Of course, you mention the stats. Didn't Pep and Ibra have a fall-out at Barcelona? Maybe Haaland is not right for Pep. Maybe he is right for old coach Ole. haha Well, nice fantasy. Haaland is a dream, but the real hope is getting the defensive midfielder that doesn't take 2 spaces (Fred and McTominay, especially when McTominay isn't a legit dm.)

Can we really rule you guys out of signing him?

Yeah Pep is one of those managers who likes to start to defend from the front. High press, high work rate etc.. That's why the false 9 has worked so well this season. I'm sure Haaland could do the same, but he seems like one of those greedy goal scorers to me. Not many of those about these days! They're worth their weight in gold.

Interestingly a few months back when there were rumblings of Kane maybe leaving Spurs, the talk was that he wouldn't be a good fit for City and Pep as he wouldn't fit into that style of play. Haaland is similar, but they don't seem to be mentioning that.

Who knows if Chelsea are in the race, they're going after him and can afford him, I think he'd prefer to go somewhere else though. He seems a little upset that his last move was to Dortmund, feels it was a little safe. So this time I think he wants to go right to the very top. Maybe if Chelsea end up winning the Champions League this year his stance might change on that.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

Yeah Pep is one of those managers who likes to start to defend from the front. High press, high work rate etc.. That's why the false 9 has worked so well this season. I'm sure Haaland could do the same, but he seems like one of those greedy goal scorers to me. Not many of those about these days! They're worth their weight in gold.

Interestingly a few months back when there were rumblings of Kane maybe leaving Spurs, the talk was that he wouldn't be a good fit for City and Pep as he wouldn't fit into that style of play. Haaland is similar, but they don't seem to be mentioning that.

Who knows if Chelsea are in the race, they're going after him and can afford him, I think he'd prefer to go somewhere else though. He seems a little upset that his last move was to Dortmund, feels it was a little safe. So this time I think he wants to go right to the very top. Maybe if Chelsea end up winning the Champions League this year his stance might change on that.

Yeah, the articles were coming up with stuff to try and justify what is written and how he is not a typical Pep player etc. They say maybe he is ready for a change. Or maybe he can get him in because he is talented. I'm leaning towards City just because it makes most sense when I'm thinking about finances. I know Ole dreams of him and it is going to be a big summer apparently. Of course, doesn't it say that every summer?

It's weird to think of Real Madrid needing to get rid. I still think of them as galacticos even though it is different these days. Perhaps Real Madrid can go back to their old ways and get rid of vital players like Makelele, and he joins United. I'll take that.

On to Brighton. 5-0 at least lads. Get in.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

Goldy gives his thoughts on Pep's comments about not being able to afford Haaland.

''Well, you gotta remember that they have never got close to spending 100 million and they've existed for 12 years'' He did stop joking and also said that Man City are trying to be a proper football club now, maybe they don't want to spend that much. ehhhh, I dunno about all dat.

I'm still leaning towards City because Pep is an artist. Master of misdirection.

 

[Feña14]

Goldy gives his thoughts on Pep's comments about not being able to afford Haaland.

''Well, you gotta remember that they have never got close to spending 100 million and they've existed for 12 years'' He did stop joking and also said that Man City are trying to be a proper football club now, maybe they don't want to spend that much. ehhhh, I dunno about all dat.

I'm still leaning towards City because Pep is an artist. Master of misdirection.

I had those thoughts too. They've signed an entire squads worth of players in the £50-60 Million range, but never higher than that. Haaland is what, close to triple that? If we're to believe Dortmund want £154 Million. Obviously City can spend that, but I suppose it's a philosophical thing.

I can see Pep's point about not needing to replace Aguero. He's not done anything this season yet they're playing better than ever, if it's not broke then why fix it? It could be misdirection though as you say, they certainly don't sound desperate which would help in negotiations.

 

[AlexanderTheGreat08]

Verrati will miss the Bayern games because he got COVID... for the 3rd time this season. He was already doubtful because of a possible injury , But he also gets sick lol. He’s always missing important games either for injury or red card or yellow accumulation. He’s arguably our 2nd most important players because of his contribution to the midfield , We have Paredes suspended and Danilo injured , So our midfield who was already going to be dominated by Bayern is in shambles. Diallo injured. The international break was merciless

i have lost all hope to beat Bayern tbh. We need a miracle

 

[Feña14]

Verrati will miss the Bayern games because he got COVID... for the 3rd time this season. He was already doubtful because of a possible injury , But he also gets sick lol. He’s always missing important games either for injury or red card or yellow accumulation. He’s arguably our 2nd most important players because of his contribution to the midfield , We have Paredes suspended and Danilo injured , So our midfield who was already going to be dominated by Bayern is in shambles. Diallo injured. The international break was merciless

i have lost all hope to beat Bayern tbh. We need a miracle

Wait, Verratti has caught Covid for the THIRD time? That's insane haha.

No Lewandowski is definitely a big help, at the back their high line is vulnerable with the quality PSG have. There is hope, I think.

 

[bezs]

Nice finish on the volley for WBA's third goal.

 

[stringertom]

Thiago Silva sees red after a second yellow in less than 30 minutes and that was enough to allow West Brom to shred Chelsea’s usually stout defense, 5-2. One point earned in the two matches with WBA and eight goals yielded.

 

[bezs]

Arsenal continuing to be a joke.

 

[Tiki-Taka]

Due to all the postponing impacted by the pandemic, the 2020 Copa Del Rey final was held yesterday. The Basque Derby between Bilbao and Sociedad who previously knocked out Barca and Real Madrid respectively. And Real Sociedad won the title thanks to Oyarzabal penalty just after the hour mark. Their first trophy in 34 years! Congratulations to them.

And because of the postponing we are going to have two Copa finals in two weeks. Athletic Bilbao are playing the other one as well, against Barcelona at La Cartuja in Sevilla on the 17th. A first chance for our team to salvage the season that started on the worst possible note in many ways.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

I'm not amused at the David De Gea speculation. Been hearing United are going to have to break the bank to get rid of him in the summer. Keeper clear out planned.

We're talking a 35 million+ contract here. Yeah, I doubt he will accept a 2% mutual termination or anything. lol Honestly, I want him to get it all. The anti DDG propaganda disgusts me. Keane, Neville, you're all on the list.

 

[stringertom]

Kane with a pair 4 minutes apart in the first half to stake Spurs to a 2-1 lead up north in Newcastle. Fulham will rejoice if this holds up.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

Looking like Martial could be out for the rest of the season. Pogba and Cavani starting today so yay to that,.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

Man Utd playing the bad football. All that so-called ball dominance means nuffin.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

Very close to being 2-0. Yikes.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

Fred has his passing boots on as usual.

Not.

Time to make the move, Ole. Get Amad and Telles on.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

Get in. 1-1. Fernandes puts it on a plate for Rashford to place it in the corner.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

I think we got away with murder there. Should have been a penalty. Lack of speed in the defense exposed once more.

 

[jmnk]

I think we got away with murder there. Should have been a penalty. Lack of speed in the defense exposed once more.

I'm starting to believe the conspiracy theory that they do not call penalties against England-born defenders. .......... How was that not a foul??

 

[AlexanderTheGreat08]

Extending Auba for 3 more seasons on 300k is looking like a bad decision so far.

 

[Poisoned Slice]

West Ham not bottling the top 4 opportunity tonight. Reborn Lingard.

Wolves with a goal just before half time. Could be game on. 1-3.

 

[Federer and Del Potro]

West Ham not bottling the top 4 opportunity tonight. Reborn Lingard.

Wolves with a goal just before half time. Could be game on. 1-3.

Time to drop Martial for Messi Lingard

 

[Tiki-Taka]

Forgettable performance tonight, haven't struggled to create chances like that since the turn of the year.

But Dembele's volley in the 90th minute got Barca a 1-0 victory over Valladolid at Camp Nou and huge three points. A steal basically given the football on display.

With Akuna's goal sinking Atletico Madrid yesterday as Sevilla solidify their fourth place, there is now only one point between Atleti and Barca. Real Madrid are three points off the top. With nine games left the title race is officially between three clubs now.

And one of the most important games of the season is this weekend as Barca will travel to Madrid for El Clasico. A draw would still mean Barca depends only on its own results as Atletico are coming to Camp Nou in May, but there is no room for calculation now. The guys earned to be in this position with a great turnaround, barely dropping points since mid December. Got to keep this going.

On today's note, before the game Leo was honored for recently becoming the player with most appearances for FC Barcelona by receiving a framed shirt from the season when he made his debut... In 2004. Huge sigh of relief that this isn't the only positive to remember tonight's game by. Felicitats, Leo.

 

[Feña14]

West Ham not bottling the top 4 opportunity tonight. Reborn Lingard.

Wolves with a goal just before half time. Could be game on. 1-3.

They're well in the mix, good luck to them! I think Liverpool are probably favourites for 4th at the moment, but West Ham are probably playing the best (in terms of their potential) of all the sides in the mix.

 

[TheAssassin]

Forgettable performance tonight, haven't struggled to create chances like that since the turn of the year.

But Dembele's volley in the 90th minute got Barca a 1-0 victory over Valladolid at Camp Nou and huge three points. A steal basically given the football on display.

With Akuna's goal sinking Atletico Madrid yesterday as Sevilla solidify their fourth place, there is now only one point between Atleti and Barca. Real Madrid are three points off the top. With nine games left the title race is officially between three clubs now.

And one of the most important games of the season is this weekend as Barca will travel to Madrid for El Clasico. A draw would still mean Barca depends only on its own results as Atletico are coming to Camp Nou in May, but there is no room for calculation now. The guys earned to be in this position with a great turnaround, barely dropping points since mid December. Got to keep this going.

On today's note, before the game Leo was honored for recently becoming the player with most appearances for FC Barcelona by receiving a framed shirt from the season when he made his debut... In 2004. Huge sigh of relief that this isn't the only positive to remember tonight's game by. Felicitats, Leo.

Hoping Liverpool can exhaust Real before meeting you guys? You really seemed to have turned around your form drastically in a blink of an eye. And Messi could stay put beyond this season after all.

 

[Larry Duff]

COYI, still expect them to finish 6th or 7th but enjoying it while it lasts.

 

[stringertom]

COYI, still expect them to finish 6th or 7th but enjoying it while it lasts.

Never underestimate the steely determination of their manager.

I also like their closing patch of matches with four of the last five against 13th or lower.

 

[Larry Duff]

Never underestimate the steely determination of their manager.

I also like their closing patch of matches with four of the last five against 13th or lower.

Leicester Chelsea and Everton all coming up first though, going to be interesting.

 

[Tiki-Taka]

Hoping Liverpool can exhaust Real before meeting you guys? You really seemed to have turned around your form drastically in a blink of an eye. And Messi could stay put beyond this season after all.

Personally I don't think it is going to play a role. I will just root for Liverpool to knock them out no matter what. Got to look at ourselves, especially as most recent El Clasico performances weren't good.

 

[Federer and Del Potro]

Get in @TheAssassin