Kudos to Manchester City & the Most Unlikeliest of Underdogs

Manchester City have won the English Premier League. T’was not all roses, though. Like an episode of the Real World on MTV, we all learned that even people with money can mess up their lives. The Tevez saga. Eden Dzeko. The Kompany injury. Eden Dzeko. Aguero’s go-kart exploits. Eden Dzeko. Lesser teams would have crumbled, but not City. On the back of a resurgent Yaya Toure and some last game extra time heroics, they won the title on the last day, and we salute them.

We also would like to take the time to reflect upon the oft overlooked underdog story at City. We speak, of course, about Sheikh Mansour. Continue reading “Kudos to Manchester City & the Most Unlikeliest of Underdogs” »

Jurgen Habermas Reflects Upon Jose Mourinho, Real Madrid

In light of Real Madrid’s La Liga winning campaign, we are privileged and honored to welcome to the site German sociologist Jurgen Habermas. He is very well known for defending annoying yet long-lasting concepts, like modernity. In that vain, he graciously agreed to answer questions about our beloved Real Madrid and the Special One, Jose Mourinho. His answers will surprise, confuse, and maybe even infuriate you.

Hopefully.

Continue reading “Jurgen Habermas Reflects Upon Jose Mourinho, Real Madrid” »

Futfanatico Takes a Bow Below that Fading, Fleeting Sunset

This blog never approached the popularity or quality of Unprofessional Foul, the Equaliser, European Football Weekends, or Les Rosbifs. But we had a helluva time. Sadly, though, our fun has come to an end. I could limp about and post monthly. I could turn “editor” and use this site’s decent PR to debut exciting new writers. In an alternate universe, I could create an intern-mill based on not paying college students, publishing game recaps and transfer rumors, and garnering mad banner ad click-though. I could even take an extended sabbatical, in the hopes of a re-birth.

However, I’m not doing any of those things. Here’s what’s up: Continue reading “Futfanatico Takes a Bow Below that Fading, Fleeting Sunset” »

The US National Team Proudly Presents 23 Under 23

The United States National Team roster for Olympic qualifying features twenty-three young players who capture the inventiveness and the vitality of contemporary American soccer. Each of the twenty-three players answered a brief questionnaire about there past, present, and future. Our editors have included highlights from the Q & A and also links to their stories. We also invite you to read a conversation by the editor that ultimately selected these young men.

Thus, enjoy this special 23 under 23 edition. Continue reading “The US National Team Proudly Presents 23 Under 23” »

Ayn Rand Reflects upon the MLS Cup, Beckham, Objectivism

Noted American philosopher and novelist Ayn Rand has graciously cleared her hectic social schedule to answer a few questions about the MLS cup, David Beckham, and also her philosophy of “objectivism.” Please note that while I am a fan of MLS and respect Mr. Beckham’s sporting endeavors, I do not intend for this post to serve as an implicit or explicit endorsement of Ayn Rand’s philosophy. Or their implications for MLS. Nevertheless, as an intellectual celebrity, we were delighted to get a few words in with her.

Even if they don’t really clarify much of anything. Continue reading “Ayn Rand Reflects upon the MLS Cup, Beckham, Objectivism” »

Frank Lampard: the Diary of an Old Midfielder

EDITOR’S NOTE

We at the Frank-Lampard Appreciation Society knew that releasing his diary, the uncut version a, would ruffle some feathers. Nevertheless, we remain firmly committed to shedding light on the player’s life, thoughts, and ruminations during this darkest of winters at the twilight of his career. This historical document will continue to be released, unedited, for the sake of the world’s heritage.

Continue reading “Frank Lampard: the Diary of an Old Midfielder” »

The Symbology of the New Red ESPN Gamecast Own Goal Icon

Since mankind painted the walls of caves, we have struggled to capture the immensity of reality in brushstrokes. At the most basic level, a painting or image will simply mirror real life. A family portrait, a postcard – these superficial reproductions serve a purpose, albeit limited. However, every once in a while inspiration meets perspiration meets talent. Sometimes, a pictorial creation transcends reality to not just replicate it, but communicate profound understandings of both reality and ourselves.

When ESPN debuted their new red-own-goal icon a few weeks back, it was one of those moments. Since then it has proliferated, appearing in both the Ireland European Cup qualifying game and the Brazil-Mexico friendly. But what does this little red soccer ball say about us? Continue reading “The Symbology of the New Red ESPN Gamecast Own Goal Icon” »