Apr
5
The One With the Quarter Finals…
Filed Under Bundesliga, Champions League, Europe, La Liga, Podcast, Serie A | Leave a Comment
La Liga Lounge returns with a Champions League special after this week’s first leg matches in the quarter-finals.
As the competition reaches its business end, Sophie and Ben discuss Barcelona’s depleted defence (who will partner Piqué?), Messi’s mini-absence, disagree on Víctor Valdés and question whether the Catalans have a mental issue late in games.
The Lounge bar staff also talk Madrid and how it’s all coming together for Mourinho, Casillas vs Diego López, the strikers and how this could be their year. We also chat Cristiano Ronaldo, look at his amazing stats and those of Messi, remember Ronaldinho, weigh up Neymar and big up Málaga, probably the story of this Champions League campaign. Will we see them back next year?
And the show wouldn’t be complete without predictions, some banter, fun, info, insight and interaction. From Sophie in LA and Ben in Barcelona, to you the world: This is La Liga Lounge…The One with the Champions League Quarters. Join us! It’s always happy hour here.
Feb
4
Verbal Memo | Battle for 3rd & 4th…
Filed Under Europe, MLS, Premier League | Leave a Comment
The fight for the Premier League title is over. Anything can happen between now and the end of the season, but the chances Manchester United fold like cheap lawn chairs and concede the title to Manchester City once again are slim.
Robin van Persie is the gift from Arsenal that keeps on giving. The Dutch dynamo is in emphatic form and an absolute goal machine scoring nineteen in the league alone. His transfer from the Emirates to the Theater of Dreams could decide which team is crowned champions of England. And it’s looking more like the Red Devils with every football weekend that passes.
The battle for third and fourth however is far more exciting and unpredictable. Tottenham are playing delicious football. Or should we say Gareth Bale is playing delicious football. Chelsea falter one week, but then bounce back the next. Arsenal are showcasing more confidence and determination as the season goes on. And Everton continue to hang around and threaten to steal a Champions League spot despite a recent dip in form. Who will prevail and bank millions?
Also on the menu this week is a little slice of David Beckham and his move to PSG. Mr.Beckham is a polarizing figure and his new adventures in Paris are causing much debate beyond the football borders. Where do you stand when it comes to Beckham?
Whether you agree or disagree with any of the dialogue, lob us a volley or fire off a header to @soccerdiva. Football. Soccer. Call it what you want. It’s just like being down the pub with your mates.
Soccerdiva | Footy Show | 3rd & 4th
Nov
22
Why Are People Jealous of David Beckham?
Filed Under La Liga, MLS, Premier League, Serie A | Leave a Comment
This week, David Beckham made a huge announcement that will shape the story arc in the final chapter of his exceptionally successful football career. On December 1, Beckham will play his last competitive game for LA Galaxy, and there’s no doubt he has divided opinion since his arrival to Major League Soccer in 2007.
Sometimes, the opinion of Beckham has little to do with him as a football player and more to do with him as a person. Despite the fame and fortune, Beckham has always remained a passionate football player. Ultimately, he just loves to play. He wishes he could play forever. And surely, the game would be better off with him prolonging his career for as long as he could, right? You would think so.
There seems to be an unnecessary undertone to some of the dialogue related to Beckham. Upon his announcement, fans took to social media to voice their opinions, and he is definitely a polarizing figure who can bring out the ugly in some people.
But why is this the case when Beckham has always been a solid professional, a great role model for kids and is generally a very good bloke?
Is there a tinge of jealousy in the air? Read my latest article on Bleacher Report. It’s definitely brushed with a little fun!
Nov
5
Soccerdiva Soundbite…David Beckham
Filed Under MLS | Leave a Comment
Football superstar and pop culture icon David Beckham has provided the world with much to savour throughout his career. As he enters the twilight of his profession and faces the realization his playing days are inching their way towards the rear view mirror, his desire to win remains as fresh as it was all those years ago when he emerged as a youngster at Manchester United.
From Real Madrid, to AC Milan and now LA Galaxy, Beckham has given his all not only for the clubs he has played for but also for his beloved England. When he finally won the MLS Cup with LA last season, many thought he would walk off into the sunset, satisfied the American dream was finally achieved.
But David Beckham loves to play. He loves his football. And after deciding to re-sign with Los Angeles after spurning the advances of Paris St. Germain earlier this year, Beckham finds himself with yet another opportunity to win a championship.
I had the opportunity to talk with one of England’s finest exports following LA’s tough loss against San Jose in the first leg of their MLS Cup playoff. San Jose Earthquakes grabbed a controversial winner in injury time, despite LA dominating possession.
It’s not the first time San Jose have done that this season. They have become the masters of the last gasp goal! David Beckham spent a few minutes with us post game and despite the loss, he is definitely optimistic about the 2nd leg. There was even time to ask David Beckham about Luis Suarez and his amazing goal against Newcastle United at Anfield. Does Suarez make the Premier League history books? Does he join Beckham among the list of legendary Premier League goals?
Hear what the ex Manchester United superstar had to say about Liverpool’s current striking superstar!
Jul
17
A Conversation With…Martin Rogers
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London is unquestionably a fantastic city to host any major world sporting event. The capital of England first hosted the Olympic Games in 1908 and then again in 1948.
The 2012 London Olympics are just around the corner and joining me on A Conversation With is Martin Rogers from Yahoo! Sports. We talk Olympic football, Team GB, Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, Spain, Mexico, Neymar and the USWNT. We even chat Michael Phelps, LeBron James and Usain Bolt. Martin gives his insights into the security and ticketing issues being reported and how excited he is to cover the Games in his hometown of London!
The world prepares to be inspired by the Games once again so be sure to check out Martin’s articles on Yahoo! for some great stories and all the latest news.
Apr
22
Money, money, money…
Filed Under Footie Lifestyle | 2 Comments
Forbes magazine announced the top 10 richest clubs on the planet yesterday and Manchester United still rule the school when it comes to money.
Biggest surprise is Barcelona dropping from 4th to 5th place, even after their treble winning season. You would expect them to be in the top 3.
1. Manchester United {$1.86 billion} 2. Real Madrid {$1.45 billion} 3. Arsenal {$1.19 billion) 4. Bayern Munich {$1.1 billion} 5. Barcelona {$975 million} 6. AC Milan {$838 million} 7. Chelsea {$658 million} 8. Juventus {$628 million} 9. Liverpool {$552 million} 10. Inter Milan {$441 million}.
The richest players list was also revealed by Forbes yesterday. The one surprise here is that Ronaldinho is still bringing in some large coin. And John Terry must be a bit peeved that Lamps made the top 10 and he didn’t!
1. David Beckham {$40 million} 2. Cristiano Ronaldo {$38 million} 3. Lionel Messi {$32 million} 4. Ricardo Kaka {$25 million} 5. Ronaldinho {$24 million} 6. Thierry Henry {$21 million} 7. Wayne Rooney {$20 million} 8. Frank Lampard {$18 million} 8. Zlatan Ibrahimovic {$18 million} 10. Samuel Eto’o {$17 million}.
Cristiano Ronaldo once said “footballer’s are like slaves.” What do you think?
One thing is for sure, the next round is on one of these guys. And if they were getting in the drinks, who would you like to be buying yours?
Feb
20
In the land of Donovan…
Filed Under MLS, Premier League | 4 Comments
Many in the media had suggested that Landon Donovan couldn’t hack playing football in Europe. And you really couldn’t blame the media for doubting the American star’s potential.
After a disappointing 4 years at Bayer Leverkusen and an unsuccessful loan spell at Bayern Munich last season, the hope for Donovan’s talent to transcend to the European game were all but over. But as we all know, anything is possible in the funny old game of football.
In the MLS season that just ended, Donovan led the LA Galaxy to the championship game and even though they were defeated, his MVP performances throughout the year grabbed the attention of Europe’s elite clubs once again. Donovan was being given another chance to prove himself on the big stage of European football and he was determined to make the most of his opportunity, especially heading into a World Cup year.
This time, the American chose the right club and the right country to play his trade. Everton are one of the most famous, traditional and prestigious clubs in England. And they have a great manager who is able to identify talent when he sees it. David Moyes didn’t hesitate in signing Donovan on loan to Everton. He needed him. With Tim Cahill, Mikel Arteta and a host of other fantastic players on the injury list, it seemed a perfect fit for both club and player. Sure it was a risk based on Donovan’s past European experiences, but Everton’s injuries meant they had to gamble. Donovan was given the famous #9 shirt by the club and he has certainly worn it proudly.
There’s no doubt Donovan has been inspirational at Everton. He has risen to the occasion, taken his opportunity with both feet and has starred for the Premier League team in many games, including victories over Chelsea and Manchester United. Donovan was just voted Player of the Month and a certain love affair might be brewing between the American and the Toffees faithful. His performances have engaged the British media and many are seeing Donovan as a completely different player. In fact, some Brits are a little more afraid of facing the United States team in their first game at the World Cup because of how Donovan has played!
Donovan now faces a very difficult decision. He finds himself in a similar situation to David Beckham following his successful loan deal at AC Milan last season. When football superstar Beckham extended his loan deal with the Italian club, Donovan was a huge critic as he questioned Beckham’s loyalty and dedication to the LA Galaxy team. After being quoted in the book “The Beckham Experiment”, Donovan made his feelings about his teammate’s contributions or lack thereof crystal clear. With things going so well at Everton, should Donovan follow in Beckham’s footsteps and extend his deal? If I were an Everton fan, I wouldn’t want to lose him. If I were David Moyes I wouldn’t want to lose him. If I were the LA Galaxy, I would want him back. But what does Donovan want? After all the criticism of Beckham, would he even consider staying with Everton until June?
As Donovan continues his preparation for the World Cup, surely staying in Europe is best for him and the United States team. Right now, it’s great to be in the land of Donovan…
Jul
14
He’s a blue devil now…
Filed Under Premier League, Squad Swapping | Leave a Comment
Here it is. The picture Manchester United fans didn’t want to see. Former United heroes Mark Hughes and Carlos Tevez proudly show-off the blue shirt of Manchester City to celebrate Tevez joining the team. If I were a United fan I’d be gutted. It would feel like someone just stabbed me in the heart. Of all the teams in all the land, did Tevez have to join City! What a dagger!
Carlos Tevez will be a superstar at Manchester City. He will be the main man. He will get everything he wanted at United and more. And Tevez wants to prove Sir Alex Ferguson wrong. Signing for City is a calculated move. It’s also a move about money of course, but why not twist the knife while you’re trying to make your point. Will Sir Alex regret this one?
United have now lost two world class players in Ronaldo and Tevez. They have signed Michael Owen from Newcastle, Antonio Valencia from Wigan and Gabrielle Obertan, a relative unknown from Bordeaux. Now these are not the superstar names United fans were expecting to see swing through the Theater of Dreams doors this summer. But if Sir Alex pulls this off, it will be the shrewdest bit of business he’s done in a while. The man has done it before with his 1990′s so-called team of kids (Giggs, Neville, Beckham) and he can certainly do it again.
So be patient United fans. Let the new season start before you start throwing the same daggers Tevez did.
Jul
9
I’d play at the Theater of Dreams…
Filed Under La Liga, Premier League, Squad Swapping | Leave a Comment
Why is everyone turning down the chance to sign for Manchester United? Why don’t players want to play at the Theater of Dreams? What is wrong with everyone people?
Benzema admitted today he chose Real Madrid over Manchester United. Ronaldo didn’t want to stay a second longer in the North of England. And Franck Ribery is hellbent on joining Real Madrid over United too. I get it, and I just don’t get it all at the same time. The last time I looked, Manchester United were the team with the stable manager and the countless Premier League titles, F.A. Cup and Champions League wins over the last few years.
If I were a player wanting to win things, United would be a better choice over Real Madrid right now wouldn’t it? But it seems the lure of Real Madrid and their place in football history is too much for players to overlook. Manchester United have just as much history. But wearing the famous white for one of the world’s greatest teams seems to be the soup de jour. Or is it because they are throwing money at players and they all see an opportunity to beef up their pensions while they can? Surely they don’t want to make history and be part of a football revolution do they? I’ll give Ronaldo a pass on this one. He earned his move and gave a lot to United.
But given the choice, would you play for Sir Alex Ferguson or Manuel Pellegrini? Pellegrini doesn’t have the pedigree of Ferguson. Granted neither did Pep Guardiola and he was amazing as Barcelona manager winning the treble in his first season. But how often does that happen? Not very. Real Madrid are obviously building another Galacticos team and they are desperate to emulate what their biggest rivals did last season. It’s hard to win the treble and it’s not a guarantee these superstars are going to gel and be unbelievably good together.
David Beckham and other Real Madrid players of the past have all said that the revolving door of managers at the Bernabeu hurt their own form and this obviously affected the overall success of the team. No player likes to have a couple of managers a month taking charge. Beckham has said many times the stability at Manchester United and knowing who the manager was and what was expected helped him and every other player evolve and progress as professionals. Perhaps it will be different with Pellegrini. Let’s see what happens when the new season starts.
Manchester United have been turned down a lot this summer. Does this mean the power is shifting to La Liga? Is this where most players want to be now? If I were one of the best players in the world today seeking a transfer, I’d sign for Manchester United in a heartbeat. It’s called the Theater of Dreams for a reason you know! Who would you sign for?
Jul
4
I see Michael Owen…
Filed Under Squad Swapping | Leave a Comment
Do you remember how shocking it was when you realized Bruce Willis’ character in the Sixth Sense was actually one of those dead people the kid kept saying he was seeing? Well shoot the shrink people! We’re not even halfway through the summer transfer season and we already have a shock-of-a-transfer story that could rival the shocking twist of the Sixth Sense.
Michael Owen has been signed by Manchester United. Let me just writepeat that…Michael Owen has been signed by Manchester United. Who wasn’t shocked beyond belief when they heard the news? I was shell-shocked. Anyone who says they saw this coming is a complete and utter liar.
For the last 2 seasons Owen has been hovering around St.James’ Park like a ghost. He was deflated. There was no life left in him. He had become like a dull, dark cloud. Very much like Bruce Willis’ character in the Sixth Sense. And now Newcastle were relegated, who was interested in buying this one time phenom?
Hull City, Stoke City and some other mediocre City named sides were apparently interested! But were these the only teams impressed by Michael Owen’s famous past? Not quite. Just as Owen’s reps were preparing another mail out of that now infamous 34 page soccer sales brochure, he received a surprise phone call from Sir Alex Ferguson inviting him out for a spot of lunch. By the time they were done with their pudding, Owen was offered a contract at Manchester United. It was easy for the ex-Liverpool hero to accept. Perhaps there’s even a part of him that wants to prove Liverpool made a mistake letting him go to Real Madrid all those years ago.
Sir Alex Ferguson likes to gamble and the media is painting this as a huge one. But we all know most transfers are huge gambles. This one could end up being a great gamble. This transfer could be the shrewdest bit of business this summer. For one, Owen will be playing with world class players again. No disrespect to Newcastle, but Manchester United is a different breed of football club. There are players that can inspire Owen to be better and at United, he will be a star name among other superstar names.
You could compare Michael Owen’s forthcoming adventure to that of David Beckham’s recent experience. Beckham was playing for the LA Galaxy and then he found himself going to AC Milan on loan and all of a sudden he’s in the form of his life playing in Serie A, the UEFA Cup and also playing a part in England’s World Cup campaign. With the medical facilities at United and the talent that will surround Owen, he could find himself achieving the same. And how satisfying would it be for him to pull that England shirt on again and prove his doubters wrong?
Sometimes people grab their second chance and they savor it like a fine wine. Others throw it away like an empty beer can. Michael Owen was dead at Newcastle. You could see it. You could feel it. He will not let this chance pass him by. He is a very ambitious man who wants to show the world he still has it. Do you guys think he will find his world class form again? Can he stay injury free? Has Sir Alex Ferguson taken too much of a gamble and will he be saying “I see Michael Owen” for the rest of his life…?