Sunday 28 July 2013

July Update

The Signing of Alvaro Negredo

My Thoughts
For me, the £20m capture of Alvaro Negredo from Sevilla raised a few questions. Admittedly, I'm not a keen follower of Sevilla and the only time I'd seen Negredo play was at the 2008 European Championships. Anyone who watched the tournament will agree that Negredo didn't impress at all. His touch was shabby and he looked a class above the rest of his tournament winning teammates. 

However, after numerous messages urging me to put my faith in the striker and after assessing his impressive goalscoring record, I decided to give the lad a chance. His debut for the blues was impressive and he looked like a guy that would wear the badge with pride. He's not afraid to shoot and he has a fair bit of tenacity about him. I expect him to have a gleaming first season with us.

Discussion
What did you make of Negredo's debut?

Is he too similar to Edin Dzeko?

If he starts, which striking partner will suit his style the best?

Should we have gone for Soldado instead?

The Signing of Stevan Jovetic

My Thoughts
Clinching this guy from the grasp of Italian champions Juventus was a task in itself, and a task that was definitely worth carrying out. In my opinion, Jovetic is one of Europe's best prospects and he fired Fiorentina to an impressive 4th spot in the Serie A last season.

I can't see where else he'll play apart from on the left side of the field. With Navas providing City with width on the right hand side, Pellegrini needed to balance the team out and I believe this is the guy he brought in to do just that. Jovetic will have no problem cutting in from the left and aiding either Negredo, Aguero or Dzeko in the attack. Top signing.

Questions
Where do you think Jovetic will play?

Do you think he is one of the most exciting prospects in European football?

How do you think he will fare against the physicality of the Premier League?

The performances of James Milner

My Thoughts
James Milner has been on fire in City's pre-season and had stood out among the rest with a number of man of the match performances. Although he prefers to play in the centre, he won't be taking Yaya's or David's place any time soon and he seems to suit the right wing role. 

Navas seemed a certainty to start in that position a few weeks ago, but after seeing Milner play as well as this, I don't believe Pellegrini has made a decision on who will occupy the role come the 19th of August.

Question
Would you start Milner over Navas?

Is James Milner to be one of the most underrated players in the league?