Ok. So my goal has been to post a new entry into my blog each day. Today is only day 4 and I am already freaking out. Not because I do not have enough to write about - just the opposite.
Because I cannot decide whether to publish my post on Colombia 2011, the Manchester Darby (tomorrow) or my Soccer Manager addiction, I am simply going to write. About what, you ask? About my favorite up and coming footballers.
I figure making a list is an easy way out. It will take care of the organizing while allowing for plenty of freedom to just write about what I enjoy most. There is plenty of time for me to put the finishing touches (or begin) writing other posts. There is not, however, plenty of time left in the day for me to write in peace and quiet as my girlfriend and her family will soon be home.
Lets begin. Shall we?
Goalkeeper: David De Gea
Nationality: Spanish
Team: Atletico Madrid
DOB: 7 November 1990
Last year, De Gea stepped between the posts midway through the season, replacing 21 year old Sergio Asenjo. De Gea continued to start and lead Los Colchoneros to a Europa League title while Asenjo is currently on loan to Malaga, which . Compared to a hotdog by Cristiano Ronaldo, De Gea gangles at 6'4" and has catlike reflexes. In spite of his size, De Gea follows in the tradition of Spanish goalkeepers, as he is more of a shot-blocker than a black hole (think Iker, not Oli Kahn). He has been linked with a move to Man U to replace Edwin Van der Sar but claims he is happy to remain in Madrid.
Center Back: Mats Hummels
Nationality: German
Team: Borussia Dortmund
DOB: 16 December 1988
I could have chosen David Luiz or Jerome Boateng, but what sets the Borussia Dortmund man apart from his ability to score from set pieces. The newly capped Germany international has scored three goals this season while anchoring a Dortmund defense that has only conceded 12 goals in 21 Bundesliga matches. Hummels has the technical ability to start attacking moves out of the back as well as consistently join in the attack, evidenced by his above average scoring record. It is just a matter of time before Yogi Low recognizes his ability to move up and down the pitch and use him like the libero he is for his club.
Right Back: Rafael
Nationality: Brasilian
Team: Manchester United
DOB: 9 July 1990
Somewhere in Brasil, Manu Menezes is sitting in a smoky back room drafting his starting 11 for the 2014 World Cup Final at the Maracana. On his board at right back is (sorry Dani Alves fans) Rafael da Silva. I can't say that I find Sir Alex particularly endearing, but he has done an amazing job developing Rafael into a future world-class fullback. His performances down the right flank make Man U games almost bearable to watch, given their incredibly negative tactics this season. Rafael is 100% Brasilian when it comes to his style of play. He has outstanding pace and technical ability as well as a penchant for taking on defenders. His stature is about that of Dani Alves and is as every bit a maurader. In four years, expect Rafael (and maybe even his doppelganger) to be a major presence for the Selecao.
Left Wing: Gareth Bale
Nationality: Welsh
Club Team: Tottenham Hotspur
DOB: 16 July 1989
Anyone familiar with the EPL knows that I am hardly going out on a limb with this pick. He has been terrorizing right backs all season with his blazing pace - including a man selected into the FIFA World XI. In their two Champions League fixtures against Internazionale this season, Bale made Maicon look like Jonathan Spector. Ever heard the saying, "if you can't beat 'em, sign 'em"? Inter tried to coin that phrase this past January transfer season as they made a 40 million pound bid to bring the Welsh winger to the San Siro. Bale will be traveling to the San Siro next week, this time in a meeting with Inter's crosstown rivals AC Milan.
Midfielders tomorrow!
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