After game week 1 concluded, there were a few surprises, a few brilliant performances, some very good goals, and a welcome lack of VAR controversy.
This short piece will predict what could be the end of season team of the year, after the mildest of glances and a look at the current squads. The season has started, and fans within stadiums is perhaps the most welcome sight for football fans, since the pandemic began. A glorious array of football awaits, and competition is hot for such a gifted pool of players.
GK – Alisson Becker
RB – Trent Alexander Arnold
LB – Luke Shaw
RCB – Harry Maguire
LCB – Virgil Van Dijk
CDM – Fabinho
RCM – Bruno Fernandes
LCM – Kevin De Bruyne
RF – Mohamed Salah
LF – Jadon Sancho
CF – Romelu Lukaku
Subs;
Emiliano MartÃnez
Christian Romero
N’Golo Kanté
João Cancelo
Thiago Alcantara
Kai Havertz
Ben Foden
Harry Kane
Son Heung-min
The extended bench allows much more depth, and there is of course no correct answer. The sheer quality on show this season is testament to the league we have, and where fan rivalry is part of the game, the fan base community should be thankful of the season ahead.
Many other players will launch themselves into recognition, and players such as Jack Grealish & Mason Greenwood are two players IÂ am keen to see develop this term.
Below is a brief note on each pick, a pick based upon opinion of talent and expectation.
GK – Alison Becker
Quite simply the leagues, and perhaps the worlds best keeper. A must pick.
RB – Trent Alexander Arnold
The defensive issues at Liverpool hampered his game, however the final 10 game run last season was sublime, and against Norwich he showed why he is (alongside Achraf Hakimi), one of the few elite full backs.
LB – Luke Shaw
His terrific season and summer pushes him into this spot, and his talent has finally emerged as a United player.
RCB – Harry Maguire
Shifted from the left side, he nudged out Ezri Konsa & Rúben Dias, though this is a tough call. Christian Romero will come into the mix very soon.
LCB – Virgil Van Dijk
The worlds best centre back is fit and playing, and his impact as a player and figure is undeniable.
CDM – Fabinho
A monster of a midfielder that could help the reds shut down teams once more. Genuine world class enforcer.
RCM – Bruno Fernandes
Perhaps the leagues stand out player and an utter goal machine. His impact is almost unparalleled. World class and United’s best player.
LCM – Kevin De Bruyne
A sensational player that City need back and firing. His ability to run a game sees him walk into the side.
RF – Mohamed Salah
World class forward play from a wide position is something Salah excels in, and this could be his best season yet.
LF – Jadon Sancho
Has the ability to set this league alight, and if he clicks with United’s other forwards, it will be a sight to see.
CF – Romelu Lukaku
A monster of a centre forward. Perhaps the worlds leading 9, and if he carries on his Serie A form, he will score on demand. The way in which Thomas Tuchel deploys his attack is vital, in order to get the best from this man.