Nogometni dresi kompleti|otroški nogometni dresi|Poceni nogometni dresi

Mikel Arteta vztraja, Nogometni Dresi da Arsenal lahko prebrodi vihar “tednov” brez svojega obrambnega vodje Gabriela, saj poškodbe grozijo, da bodo topničarje pred ključnim tednom iztirile.

Gabriel si je v soboto v zmagi Brazilije nad Senegalom z 2:0 poškodoval stegno in bo v sredo opravil nadaljnje preiskave, saj Arsenal poskuša ugotoviti jasnejši časovni okvir za okrevanje svojega obrambnega vodje. Začetni strahovi so napovedovali, da bo 27-letnik odsoten do dva meseca, vendar Arteta zaenkrat okleva z nadaljnjimi pojasnili.

“Odsoten bo več tednov,” je dejal Arteta. “Potrebujemo še eno preiskavo in časovnica bo veliko jasnejša, kot jo imamo trenutno. To je očitno udarec, to je naš vodja v obrambi. Nikoli ni pozitivno, če ga izgubimo. Dobra stvar je, da imamo zelo dobre možnosti in ljudje se morajo zdaj postaviti pokonci in opraviti svoje delo.”

Zadeve še dodatno zaplete dejstvo, da je Riccardo Calafiori še vedno vprašljiv za nedeljski severnolondonski derbi, saj je med reprezentančnim premorom izpustil trening. Italijanska reprezentanca je Calafiorija po začetnih testih zaradi poškodbe stegna poslala nazaj v Arsenal, Arteta pa je razkril, da je 23-letnik, ki je bil to sezono vedno prisoten v svoji enajsterici Premier League, igral kljub bolečinam.

“Nosil je nekaj stvari in morali smo ga vrniti. Še ni treniral. Jutri imamo še en trening, poglejmo, kako bo.”

Poškodbe Arsenalove obrambne vrste so za Arteto še toliko bolj frustrirajoče časovno usklajene, saj so se zgodile ravno v času, ko se je zdelo, da glavoboli v napadalni vrsti popuščajo. Vodilni v ligi so na reprezentančni premor prišli brez šestih napadalnih možnosti, njihov trener pa je bil običajno previden, ko so ga vprašali, kateri od Gabriela Martinellija, Gabriela Jesusa, Kaija Havertza, Martina Odegaarda, Viktorja Gyokeresa in Nonija Maduekeja bi lahko bili na voljo za gostovanje pri Tottenhamu. “Lahko vam povem, ampak tega ne bom storil,” se je pošalil.

Njegova previdnost bi nakazovala, da bodo vsaj nekateri od teh na voljo. Martinelli naj bi med odmorom treniral in pojavila so se ugibanja, da bi lahko bila v igri vključena tako Odegaard kot Madueke. Arteta je nakazal, da je glede šesterke prav tako optimističen, kot je bil na relativno živahni tiskovni konferenci pred reprezentančnim odmorom in remijem 1:1 s Sunderlandom. Vendar pa bo njegovo vztrajanje pri tem, da karte drži pri miru, vsaj Thomasa Franka pustilo v dvoboju do ure in četrt pred začetkom tekme v nedeljo.

“To je zadnja faza,” je dejal, “in zdaj je stik okoli njih, Argentina dresi SP 2026 ko jih je treba prisiliti v zelo nepredvidljive stvari, ki jih še niso počeli. Mislim, da bodo kmalu z nami, ne vem, ali bo nedelja prehitra.”

Ne glede na to, koliko napadalcev se vrne, bi se bilo upravičeno vprašati, ali bi jih Arteta vse zamenjal za Gabrielovo telesno pripravljenost. Brazilec je skala, na kateri stoji najboljša obramba v Evropi, saj je Arsenal v 17 tekmah v vseh tekmovanjih prejel pet golov, da ne omenjamo uničenja, ki ga rutinsko povzroča iz prekinitev. Ne bi bilo pretiravanje trditi, da bi imel Gabriel resne možnosti za osvojitev nekaterih največjih individualnih nagrad v športu, če bi bil vso sezono v formi, čeprav je ta možnost videti vse manjša.

Ne glede na to, kako dolgo bo odsoten, bomo Gabriela pogrešali. “Vsak igralec prinese svoje posebne lastnosti, Gabriel pa je njegovo vodstvo, njegova prisotnost in ljubezen, ki jo ima do obrambe in prenosa svoje govorice telesa na druge igralce. To moramo storiti in to moramo širiti.”

Arteta verjame, da lahko njegova ekipa to stori. “Ljudje se bodo postavili na noge, to smo storili že velikokrat v preteklosti. Žal smo lani največji in najbolj problematičen del sezone odigrali tudi brez njega in ekipa se je s tem spopadla.”

Arteta se s tem sklicuje na konec prejšnje sezone, v kateri je moral Arsenal brez Gabriela – in številnih drugih ključnih igralcev. Poškodba zadnje stegenske mišice, ki se je zdela hud udarec za njihove kandidate za Ligo prvakov, saj se je zgodila tik pred četrtfinalom proti Real Madridu, ni nujno uničila Topničarjev, ki so izgubili le tri od zadnjih 12 tekem.

Po drugi strani pa so, ko so se opotekajoče pripravljali na cilj, prejeli 13 golov in prejeli nekaj več kot pričakovani gol na tekmo. Preden je Gabriel izpadel, so imeli 39 zadetkov v 46 tekmah, kar je 0,88 prejetega gola na tekmo. Jakub Kiwior je impresivno posredoval in si dvignil ugled med navijači, vendar ni bil Gabriel. Piero Hincapie je morda eden najboljših rezervnih centralnih branilcev v ligi, toda Gabriel je eden najboljših centralnih branilcev na svetu. Tudi Calafiori, še ena možnost za zamenjavo poleg Williama Salibe, je velik talent. Preprosto ni Gabriel. Nihče ni.

1. Introduction

Hampden Park in Glasgow shook with excitement as Scottish fans spurred their team on with tireless chanting and drumming. The air crackled with energy, every heartbeat of the spectators seemingly synchronized with the rapid movements of the ball on the pitch. Flags fluttered in the wind, scarves were raised high in the air, and even the coldest November night couldn’t dampen the crowd’s enthusiasm. For many, this wasn’t just a football match—it was a historic moment that would resonate for generations to come. Children who had never witnessed Scotland qualify for the World Cup jumped in the stands, while older fans watched the action on the field with tears in their eyes. The tension was palpable: every pass, every tackle, every shot on goal could change history.

Scotland stood on the cusp of an event long considered unattainable. The team hadn’t qualified for a World Cup since 1998, and now the opportunity was within reach. The past few decades have been marked by ups and downs, by promising qualifying campaigns that often ended in disappointment, and by generations of talented players who narrowly missed out. This long drought made today’s match something far greater than just a sporting event – ​​it was a symbol of hope, perseverance, and national pride. The players on the pitch carried not only their country’s colors but also the expectations of millions of Scots who had longed for this historic qualification for years.

The preparation for this crucial match was intense. Coaches, staff, and players had analyzed every weakness of the Danish team, developed strategies, and played through possible scenarios. But despite all the planning, everyone knew that football is unpredictable. In the days leading up to the match, you could feel the anticipation and nervousness that permeated the entire nation. Sports pundits debated Scotland’s chances, the media reported with bated breath on every training session, and fans on social media followed every news item, every rumor, as if their hearts depended on it.

As kickoff drew near, a mixture of hope and excitement spread through the crowd. The question on everyone’s mind was: “Can Scotland make its long-awaited return to the world stage?” Every second of the match would determine whether the country could finally reap the rewards of decades of hard work and passion. The atmosphere in the stands was electric, and the players on the pitch felt the immense pressure, but also the unwavering support of their fans. This blend of tension, pride, and national unity lent the game an almost mythical significance.

In the opening minutes, it was immediately clear that this would be no ordinary match. The players ran, fought for every ball, and displayed an intensity that reflected the enormous importance of the game. Every pass was precise, every attack meticulously planned, and every shot on goal drew roars from the crowd. The fans instinctively sensed that they were witnessing a historic moment—a moment that would go down in the annals of Scottish football. And as the clock ticked relentlessly, the crucial question remained: How would Scotland fare at the World Cup? This anticipation, this trembling before the unknown, lent the game an electrifying tension that could be felt far beyond the stadium.

2. Match Summary

The match began with an intense atmosphere, with Scotland immediately setting the tone. As early as the 5th minute, Daichi Kamada launched a swift attack, cutting inside from the left wing and unleashing a precise shot towards the near post – the Danish goalkeeper made a narrow save. The fans leapt to their feet, the drum roll echoed through the stadium, and the tension mounted with each passing second. The Danes responded with aggressive pressing, but the Scottish defense, led by captain Andrew Robertson, immediately demonstrated its stability, blocking several dangerous attacks and launching counter-attacks.

In the 18th minute, Scotland scored the first goal. Following a quick passing sequence down the right flank, Ryan Christie delivered a pinpoint cross into the penalty area, which Callum McGregor expertly headed home. The stadium erupted in jubilation, and the fans sang the national anthem at the top of their lungs, while the players embraced each other in a mixture of relief and adrenaline. The scene was a perfect example of the balance between tactical discipline and individual brilliance: Christie’s precise build-up play and McGregor’s elegant finish demonstrated the sophisticated thinking of the Scottish attack.

Denmark responded furiously, increasing the pressure and forcing the Scottish defense into some risky clearances. In the 27th minute, Andreas Skov Olsen embarked on a dangerous solo run, but Scotland’s goalkeeper David Marshall reacted brilliantly, leaping high and spectacularly tipping the ball over the bar. The crowd collectively held its breath – this save not only preserved the goal but also maintained the emotional momentum of the home side.

Shortly before halftime, in the 42nd minute, Scotland extended their lead. A swift counter-attack down the left flank saw Kieran Tierney deliver a cross into the box, where Che Adams headed home with composure. The fans erupted, the players ran towards the stands, while fireworks exploded over the stadium. The halftime break provided a brief respite, but the tension remained high: everyone knew Denmark would give it their all in the second half.

The second half began dynamically, and the Danes showed great determination. In the 54th minute, they pulled one back: Christian Eriksen scored after a superb passing move that momentarily caught the Scottish defense off guard. The atmosphere in the stadium became electric; every shot on goal made the fans jump, and the players responded with increased intensity. Scotland, however, refused to be intimidated. In the 63rd minute, Daichi Kamada effectively sealed the victory: after a one-two with Callum McGregor, he unleashed a shot from the edge of the penalty area, the ball flying into the top corner. The joy in the stands was boundless; fans embraced each other, and the players were visibly relieved.

The Danes continued to fight, searching for a way back into the game, but Scotland skillfully controlled the match. In the 78th minute, Ryan Christie curled a precise free kick just over the wall, and Che Adams finished it off again – 4-1. The stadium erupted, drums and chants blending into a rhythmic crescendo. In the final minutes, Denmark managed a second goal through Andreas Christensen, but the score was insurmountable. Scotland deservedly won 4-2, displaying tactical acumen, individual brilliance, and above all, unwavering fighting spirit.

3. Tactical Analysis

Scotland’s victory against Denmark was not merely a result of individual brilliance but primarily the product of well-considered tactical decisions. The Scottish national team began the match in a 4-3-3 formation, which allowed for both defensive stability and offensive flexibility. The back four – consisting of Robertson, Hanley, McTominay, and Tierney – kept the center tight, while the full-backs pushed forward to support attacks. The midfield was dominated by McGregor, Christie, and Kamada, who skillfully exploited the space, both building attacks and quickly pressing after losing possession. Up front, Che Adams and Ryan Christie formed the strike partnership, supported by the energetic wingers who constantly created numerical advantages.

Denmark lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, which was defensively compact and offensively versatile. Two central defensive midfielders, Eriksen and Christensen, formed a bulwark in front of the defense, while three attacking midfielders provided the link to the forwards. The Danes relied on a controlled build-up play and attempted to bypass Scotland’s pressing with quick combinations. Especially in the second half, they deliberately targeted the wings to open up spaces in the Scottish defense.

A crucial tactical advantage for Scotland was their high press, which in modern football can be described as “high aggression upon winning the ball.” As soon as Denmark had the ball in their own third, the Scottish midfielders and forwards pressed the ball carriers, forcing errors and creating chances from turnovers. This pressing led directly to several counter-attacks, including Kamada’s decisive goal in the 63rd minute. This offensive aggression repeatedly disrupted the Danish defense, creating space for quick attacks.

Another tactical highlight was Scotland’s flexible use of the wing positions. Full-backs Robertson and Tierney pushed forward situationally, while the wingers drifted inside. This movement created triangular formations that overloaded the Danish midfield and opened up passing lanes for the midfield. Simultaneously, McGregor provided balance in defensive midfield by dropping back and acting as an additional cover. This flexible spacing allowed Scotland to create both width and depth in their play, constantly surprising their opponents.

Denmark’s strategic response was to sit deep and wait for counterattacks. They switched to a 5-3-2 formation during the match to provide more defensive cover, but this reduced their attacking threat. The Danish players tried to involve their strikers with long balls, but Scotland’s defensive unit reacted quickly, covered space well, and defused most attacks before they reached the penalty area.

The work rate and intelligent positioning of Adams and Kamada were also particularly noteworthy. Adams repeatedly stretched the opposing defense by moving between the lines, while Kamada cut inside diagonally to create long-range shots. These runs created chaos in the Danish defense and opened up opportunities for Scotland’s attackers, who were effective both in the air and on the ground.

4. Players in the Spotlight

A historic match like the 4-2 victory against Denmark owes its success not only to the team’s tactical discipline, but above all to outstanding individual performances. Several players stood out, their actions making the difference and securing Scotland’s return to the 2026 World Cup.

Callum McGregor deserves special mention, as his header in the 18th minute opened the scoring. Born in Glasgow, McGregor has been a key figure in Scotland’s midfield for years and is known for his precise passing and tactical awareness. He had already proven his composure under pressure in the Scottish Premiership on several occasions. In this match, he once again demonstrated his class: in addition to scoring, it was his ability to read the game and create space for his teammates that defined Scotland’s attacking play.

Equally impressive was Daichi Kamada, who scored the decisive third goal in the 63rd minute, making it 3-1. Kamada, who began his professional career in Germany with Eintracht Frankfurt, fully utilized his international experience. His dribbling, quick runs into open spaces, and precise long-range shots repeatedly forced the Danish defense onto the back foot. Kamada’s presence on the field not only gave the team tactical flexibility but also a palpable boost in confidence. Fans and pundits alike praised his composure on the ball and his ability to make decisive decisions under pressure.

It wasn’t just the attacking stars who dominated the game: David Marshall, Scotland’s experienced goalkeeper, delivered an outstanding performance throughout. As early as the 27th minute, he thwarted a golden opportunity for Denmark with a spectacular diving save. Marshall, who has over 100 international caps, acted as a calming presence in defense, organizing the back line with precision. Without his unerring reflexes and leadership qualities, the final score might have been much closer.

Andrew Robertson, captain and left-back, also deserved special recognition. His work rate, moving back and forth between defense and attack, was impressive. Robertson, who plays for Liverpool in the Premier League, combined defensive positioning with clever forward runs that consistently created danger. His crosses and timing in attack were instrumental in the goals scored by McGregor and Adams.

Special mention must also go to Che Adams, who decisively shaped the outcome with two goals. Adams, whose career began in the Scottish Championship, has developed into a reliable goalscorer over the years. His header just before halftime showcased not only his physical presence but also his spatial awareness and timing – qualities that make him an indispensable part of the team.

For Denmark, Christian Eriksen and Andreas Christensen were key figures, but their performances were limited by the solid Scottish defense. Eriksen tried to break down the defense with precise passes and creative runs, while Christensen made several crucial clearances. The fact that Scotland still dominated underlines the collective performance, in which every player, from the defenders to the forwards, made their contribution.

5. Historical Perspective

Scotland’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup marks a historic milestone, Soccer Jerseys Kids impressively reflecting the country’s footballing history. To fully understand the significance of this achievement, it’s worth looking back at their last World Cup appearance in 1998. Back then, Scotland was a team that relied primarily on physical strength and fighting spirit. Players like Alan Shearer and Paul Lambert dominated the attack and midfield, while the defense was built on robustness and tackling ability. Tactically, the team was rather rigidly structured, employing a classic 4-4-2 system focused on direct passes and crosses. Despite some outstanding individual players, Scotland failed to advance from the group stage and ultimately finished in a disappointing position.

In contrast, the 2025 team presents itself as significantly more modern and flexible. The players are internationally experienced, many of them playing in top European leagues, and they possess tactical sophistication as well as technical skills. The 4-3-3 system allows for both dynamic attacking play and defensive stability. Players like Callum McGregor, Daichi Kamada, Che Adams, and Andrew Robertson embody a blend of creativity, speed, and precise teamwork. The defense, led by David Marshall, operates with control and organization, while the midfield increases the pressure situationally to immediately punish any turnovers. This evolution demonstrates how Scotland’s style of play has professionalized over almost three decades, moving away from physical dominance towards tactical intelligence and technical skill.

The reactions of the media and fans also underscore the historic significance of this success. Following the 4-2 victory against Denmark, the hashtag #ScotlandToTheWorldCup trended on social media, while numerous newspapers, including The Scotsman and the Daily Record, reported on a “triumphant comeback.” Commentators emphasized that the team had matured not only in terms of skill but also mentally. Prominent Scots, including musicians and politicians, publicly congratulated the players, underscoring the national significance of the event. On football forums, fans exchanged match analyses, tactical insights, and discussed the best players of the day, making the excitement palpable throughout the country.

Numbers and data further underpin this historic achievement. Since their last successful qualification in 1998, Scotland had only managed an average qualifying finish in the upper half of European groups, with a winning rate of around 45% in crucial matches. In contrast, the 2025 team boasts a winning rate of 68% in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, scoring a total of 23 goals and conceding only 8 – a clear indication of the team’s efficiency and balance. The FIFA World Ranking also reflects this progress: while Scotland was ranked outside the top 20 in 1998, the 2025 team is among the top 15 in Europe, highlighting their increased competitiveness.

Another aspect that underscores the historical significance of the victory is the continuity within the coaching staff. Hajime Moriyasu, who leads the team strategically and emotionally, has systematically built a bridge between experienced players and young talents over the past few years. This blend of experience and youth, coupled with tactical expertise, distinguishes the team from the more homogeneous squads of previous years. Fans and experts alike particularly praise the team’s ability to remain calm in crucial moments while still playing aggressively – a quality that was lacking in 1998.

6. Outlook for the 2026 World Cup

With their historic 4-2 victory against Denmark and their first World Cup appearance since 1998, Scotland’s sights are now set on the 2026 World Cup. The team faces a completely new challenge: On the international stage, they will encounter opponents of the highest caliber, whose tactics, individual skill, and physical strength are difficult to assess. Initial analyses suggest that Scotland could be in a group with at least one favorite, such as Brazil or France, which makes tactical preparation particularly demanding. The team must deliver both defensive stability and creative attacking play at the highest level to hold its own in this tough competition.

The coaching staff has already indicated that flexibility and adaptability will be crucial. The 4-3-3 system will continue to form the basis, but against technically gifted teams, a situational switch to a compact 4-2-3-1 might be necessary to close down spaces and launch quick counter-attacks. Key players like McGregor and Kamada will once again play a pivotal role, exploiting gaps in the opposition’s defense and delivering precise passes to the strikers. David Marshall’s experience and Robertson’s dynamism also remain indispensable for maintaining the balance between defense and attack.

Fans’ expectations are high. Numerous simulations and predictions are already circulating on social media, giving Scotland a realistic chance of reaching the round of 16. Fan clubs in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and other cities have begun expressing their anticipation and optimism with humorous displays – such as banners depicting players in Scotland or Japan jerseys to symbolically represent the international fixtures. These creative displays demonstrate that the national enthusiasm is not only realistic but also brimming with joy and confidence. At the same time, experts warn against overconfidence: an early exit is always possible despite strong performances if opponents counter cleverly or if Scotland makes minor errors in their build-up play.

Fan clubs in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and other cities have begun expressing their excitement and optimism with humorous displays – for example, banners depicting players in Scotland or Japan jerseys to symbolically represent the upcoming international matches. Tactically speaking, the 2026 World Cup will present the team with challenges that didn’t exist during the qualifiers. Teams from South America and Asia bring a different style of play – quick transitions, technically gifted attacking players, and surprising set pieces. Scotland must be able to adapt to every situation and flexibly adjust its own style of play. The defense will be particularly challenged, and any mistake could be punished immediately in a tournament format. Nevertheless, this also offers the opportunity to further develop Scotland’s game, integrate young players, and test new tactical variations.

Media coverage is already intense. Commentators praise the combination of experienced leadership and young talent, which could make the team particularly strong in crucial moments. In interviews, players and coaches emphasize that they want to approach the tournament step by step, without being paralyzed by the pressure of expectations. At the same time, excitement is rising among the fans, who are celebrating this historic event and hoping that the team will be able to put the country back on the football world map.

In conclusion, Scotland is in a promising position ahead of the 2026 World Cup. With a combination of tactical discipline, individual brilliance, and the unwavering support of its fans, the team has a chance to advance from the group stage and perhaps even cause an upset. But as always in football, preparation, focus, and a healthy dose of humility are crucial. The journey to the World Cup will be a test for both the players and the nation – full of emotions, expectations, and unforgettable moments, with fans even wearing the Best Football Jerseys of international teams like Japan as inspiration to celebrate the global diversity of the tournament.

7. Conclusion

Scotland’s 4-2 victory over Denmark is more than just a sporting result – it’s a symbol of perseverance, collective will, and the unwavering pride of a nation. The country had been waiting for this moment since 1998, and the emotions the match generated reflect the deep connection between fans, players, and the history of Scottish football. In the stands at Hampden Park, generations of fans cheered together, celebrating the goals, the saves, and the players’ tireless commitment, while millions watched at home. This historic qualification demonstrates that passion, patience, and strategic planning are often just as crucial in football as talent alone.

The team not only showcased its technical and tactical maturity in this match but also demonstrated mental fortitude. Every player, from defensive stalwarts like Andrew Robertson and David Marshall to creative attacking players like Callum McGregor and Che Adams, played a vital role in the victory. The combination of experience, team spirit, and individual brilliance made all the difference and demonstrates that a historic victory is always the result of collective effort. The players not only lived up to expectations but also inspired the entire nation and opened a new chapter in the history of Scottish football.

The significance for the fans can hardly be overstated. The emotional reaction after the final whistle—cheers, tears, and chants—illustrates the powerful unifying force of football within society. Across generations, people experienced a moment of pride that transcends the sport itself. In an era where global football tournaments are often driven by economic interests and media spectacle, Scotland’s qualification shows that football’s roots lie in passion, community, and national identity. The images of jubilant fans in the streets of Glasgow will be remembered for a long time and serve as an inspiration for future generations.

The historical dimension of this success is also evident when compared to previous World Cup appearances. In 1998, the team failed to advance from the group stage, despite some outstanding individual players. Today, however, the team is not only technically and tactically superior but also mentally resilient. This development demonstrates how continuous work, strategic planning, and targeted talent development enable long-term success. Scotland’s qualification is a triumph of collective vision, coaching, and the players’ tireless dedication over many years.

Ultimately, this event shows that historic achievements in football are often more than just numbers or statistics. They embody a nation’s hope, the pride of its fans, and the unwavering determination of its players. Scotland’s team has proven that discipline, courage, and team spirit can overcome even the greatest challenges. Qualifying for the 2026 World Cup is not just a sporting milestone but a moment that will be etched in people’s hearts and memories.

But the journey doesn’t end here. The coming months leading up to the World Cup will bring new challenges, top-level opponents, and moments when the team will once again have to prove its character. The question on the minds of fans, experts, and players alike is: Can Scotland continue to write history? This open ending invites us to look forward with anticipation to the next stage, where Scotland’s team will once again demonstrate that determination, passion, and unity are the true ingredients for historic success in football.

Brez Stockley Parka bi se lestvica Premier lige dramatično skrčila in mnogi klubi bi doživeli znatne spremembe na svojih lestvicah.

Legendarni brazilski dramatik in športni novinar Nelson Rodriguez ni bil ljubitelj televizijskih prenosov tekem. »Če videoposnetek kaže, da je bila enajstmetrovka, je videoposnetek še slabši,« je nekoč godrnjal. »Videoposnetki so neumni.«

Lahko si samo predstavljamo, kako bi gledal na tehnologijo VAR (Video Assistant Referee).

Ugibanja o širitvi obsega VAR-a trajajo že leta, a zaenkrat se zdi, da je polemika okoli VAR-a v Premier ligi zadostna. Skoraj vsak konec tedna je poln kontroverznih odločitev – ali pogosteje odločitev brez krivde – in v razpravo so vpleteni tako menedžerji kot igralci in komentatorji.

Spomin nogometnih navijačev ni nikoli zanesljiv, tisti, ki pozivajo k odpravi VAR-a, pa so nedvomno pozabili na različne teorije zarote, ki so krožile na igrišču pred njegovim pojavom. Izvedimo neškodljiv hipotetični poskus.

Preglejte rezultate tekem te sezone in predpostavite, da so odločitve sodnikov vedno dokončne, s čimer spremenijo vsak izid in ustvarijo hipotetični svet brez VAR-a.

To je nepopoln model: goli – ne glede na to, ali so razveljavljeni ali ne – spremenijo igro, zato ne moremo natančno vedeti, kako bi se te tekme odvijale brez posredovanja VAR-a; prav tako predpostavljamo, da bi bila vsaka enajstmetrovka, ki jo je VAR razveljavil, dosežena.

Vendar to približno odraža obseg vpliva Stockley Parka na Premier League. Nekateri klubi so očitno bolj prizadeti kot drugi.

Kako bi izgledala lestvica Premier League 2025–26 brez VAR-a?

Arsenal v tej sezoni praktično ni bil prizadet zaradi odločitev VAR-a. V sezoni 2024–25 so topničarji imeli štiri zmagovalne “gole”, ki jih je VAR razveljavil (kar je povzročilo 8-točkovno izgubo, vendar še vedno ne dovolj, da bi izzvali prevlado Liverpoola). Vendar pa jim v tej sezoni edina dva enajstmetrovka, ki ju je VAR razveljavil, nista stala nobenih točk.

Mikel Arteta je bil še posebej razburjen zaradi zgrešene enajstmetrovke Victorja Giocreta proti Newcastle Unitedu septembra. Gabrielov zmagovalni gol v sodnikovem podaljšku je pomiril njegovo jezo, medtem ko je Arsenal že vodil z 1:0, ko je bila razveljavljena enajstmetrovka Bukaya Sake proti Fulhamu.

Bournemouth bi zagotovo imel veliko koristi, če bi VAR manj posredoval. Češnje so bile pred reprezentančnim premorom devete, a so potrebovale le še dve točki, da bi se uvrstile med najboljše tri. Ti dodatni dve točki bi lahko osvojili oktobra na Selhurst Parku, kjer je Jean-Philippe Mateta iz Crystal Palacea dosegel hat-trick v kaotičnem remiju 3:3, njegov prvi gol pa je VAR razveljavil, potem ko je bilo potrjeno, da francoski napadalec ni bil v prepovedanem položaju.

V začetku tega meseca se je Crystal Palace proti Brightonu znova izognil izločitvi, saj jih je pred izločitvijo rešila vseprisotna prisotnost VAR-a.

Enajstmetrovko Brightona v drugem polčasu je VAR razveljavil, saj je ugotovil, da je Giorgio Rutte skočil in dobil enajstmetrovko. Če ne bi bilo posredovanja Paula Howarda in če bi Danny Welbeck zadel enajstmetrovko, bi si Brighton lahko zagotovil še dve točki in se povzpel za pet mest na zelo konkurenčni lestvici.

Vzpon Brightona bi teoretično lahko negativno vplival na Manchester United, čeprav doslej odločitve VAR niso neposredno vplivale na ekipo Rubena Amorina. Rdeči vragi so konec avgusta doživeli dva posredovanja VAR, a sta se izida na koncu medsebojno izničila.

V prvem polčasu tekme Manchester Uniteda proti Burnleyju je sodnik Sam Barrot dosodil enajstmetrovko, vendar je sodnik Conte Hatzidakis ni dosodil, s čimer se je izognil neprijetni situaciji za Kylea Walkerja po njegovi vrnitvi. Vendar je VAR v sodnikovem podaljšku sprejel ugodno odločitev, saj je Jadena Anthonyja spoznal za krivega, ker je potegnil Ahmada Dialla, in dosodil enajstmetrovko, ki jo je Bruno Fernandes zadel.

Navijači Liverpoola so protestirali zaradi domnevne krivice

Liverpool je v novembrski reprezentančni premor vstopil z velikim nezadovoljstvom zaradi sodniških odločitev, kar je privedlo do poraza proti Manchester Cityju. Virgil van Dijkov gol je pomočnik sodnika Andy Robertson razveljavil zaradi prepovedanega položaja, vendar je trener Arne Sloot priznal, da kontroverzna odločitev ni bila pravi razlog za njihov uničujoč poraz.

Ne glede na to, katero tekmo imate v mislih, so sodniške odločitve pogosto v središču razprav. V zadnjih letih je VAR redno sprožil burne reakcije, zlasti ko gre za tesne odločitve o prepovedanem položaju (ofsajdu). Trenerji, kot je bil Klopp, so pogosto poudarjali, da je kljub spornim odločitvam na koncu za rezultat odgovorna izvedba ekipe na igrišču.

Ta filozofija – da morajo igralci preseči zunanje dejavnike – bo ključna tudi za naslednjo sezono, ko bodo navijači že nestrpno pričakovali, kakšni bodo novi Liverpool dresi 2025-26. Novi dresi ponavadi prinašajo nov val optimizma in simbolizirajo svež začetek, ne glede na pretekle sodniške krivice.

Vendar pa bi bil njihov poraz z 2:3 proti Brentfordu dva tedna prej lahko precej drugačen. Van Dijk je spet v središču pozornosti.

Rekordni Nizozemec je sprva dobil prosti strel zaradi prekrška nad Vatarro, vendar so posnetki VAR pokazali, da se je prekršek zgodil znotraj kazenskega prostora. Thiago je enajstmetrovko pretvoril v gol in rezultat povišal na 3:1. Če Brazilec ne bi dosegel gola, bi lahko Mohamed Salah s poznim golom teoretično izenačil rezultat na 2:2.

Če bi Liverpool osvojil le še eno točko, bi prehitel druge tesno izenačene ekipe v zgornji polovici lestvice in se povzpel na četrto mesto.

Chelsea je čutil pritisk

Če je Liverpool trpel pod vplivom VAR-a, bi Chelsea imel največ koristi.

Na začetku nove sezone je Slovenski Nogometni dres za otroke Chelsea na Stockley Parku doživel vrsto neuspehov. V prvem krogu je VAR razveljavil prosti strel Eberreja Ezeja, takratnega igralca za Crystal Palace, in Chelsea je na koncu proti Crystal Palaceu uspel osvojiti le točko.

Dva tedna pozneje je bil Fulham na Stamford Bridgeu v drugem londonskem derbiju dvakrat kaznovan z VAR-om. Josh King je mislil, da je to njegov prvi profesionalni gol, a je bil razveljavljen zaradi manjšega prekrška Rodriga Muniza med napadom.

Gol Joãa Pedra v sodnikovem dodatku prvega polčasa je še poslabšal težave Fulhama, nato pa je enajstmetrovka Enza Fernandesa, ki jo je v drugem polčasu dosodil sodnik VAR Michael Salisbury, popolnoma razbila upe Fulhama. Marco Silva je bil besen in je odločitve označil za “neverjetne”.

Brez posredovanja VAR-a bi Chelsea zaslužil 3 točke manj in padel s tretjega na deveto mesto na lestvici.

1. Introduction

Morning dawns, and Maria stands in front of her wardrobe, wondering what to wear. Her dusty shirt and worn Kids Bayern Munich Football Kit don’t seem to fit anywhere, and every possible outfit seems either too casual or too fancy. How many times have you wondered what to wear in a hurry, only to end up choosing something familiar and safe? This everyday moment, as simple as it may seem, reveals many a dilemma: wardrobes are often messy, and getting dressed can easily become a stressful routine instead of a source of creativity and joy.

This is exactly the need that US startup lookingGLASS is responding to, having developed an innovation called Clueless Closet. This smart wardrobe promises to completely change the way we think about clothes and dressing. Users can digitize their own wardrobe, and artificial intelligence provides tailored style advice that helps them combine different pieces into stylish ensembles. No more unnecessary thinking or duplicate items of clothing – now your wardrobe can be your personal fashion advisor.

However, Clueless Closet is not just for private use. The novelty is about to gain the attention of the general public, as its official presentation will take place at New York Fashion Week, the world’s most important fashion event, which brings together fashion professionals, influencers and media from all over the world. This makes the launch of the application significant news: it is not just a new technology, but also a revolution in the fashion world, where traditional dressing is combined with high technology.

On the stage of New York Fashion Week, Clueless Closet will demonstrate how an ordinary wardrobe can be transformed into a digital style advisor. For example, the user can start the day with home clothes, and with a few taps, artificial intelligence will suggest an outfit that is suitable for both the office and an evening party. This makes dressing not only faster and more efficient, but also more fun and creative. The show will also showcase how the wardrobe’s digital capabilities can display outfits as “living” models right on stage, bringing together fashion, technology and entertainment in a unique way.

Clueless Closet not only saves time and effort, but also challenges traditional ways of thinking about clothes. It asks us: why settle for a closet being just a place to store clothes? Why not be an intelligent, proactive and creative partner that helps us express our own style every day? This innovation is a sign that dressing is no longer just a routine, but a personal and digitally enriched experience.

This first look at Clueless Closet doesn’t reveal everything yet, but it raises questions and expectations: how will artificial intelligence change everyday dressing? Can a smart wardrobe really be an everyday fashion advisor that understands an individual’s style and needs? The New York Fashion Week presentation promises answers and at the same time opens the door to a future clothing culture where smart solutions and fashion go hand in hand.

2. Background and Company

The company behind Clueless Closet, lookingGLASS, is a US startup that has quickly risen to the forefront of fashion technology. The company was founded by three friends who combined their passion for fashion, technology and sustainable consumption. In interviews, the founders said that the idea for Clueless Closet came from an everyday situation: they noticed themselves thinking about what to wear every day, and how often their wardrobes were full of clothes, but still felt like nothing fit. From this simple problem, a vision of a smart wardrobe was born that could help people make better, faster and more inspiring clothing choices.

LookingGLASS’s mission is simple but ambitious: “To combine fashion and artificial intelligence in an unprecedented way.” The company wants to create solutions that not only make everyday life easier, but also make getting dressed a creative and personal experience. With Clueless Closet, the user no longer just stores their clothes in a closet, but makes them part of a dynamic system that understands the individual’s style, preferences and daily rhythm of life.

The founders of the startup emphasize that Clueless Closet is not just a technological invention, but also a solution related to fashion culture. It aims to change the way people relate to clothes and their own dressing. The goal is to create an environment where clothes are not just material, but an opportunity for self-expression and individual style. This combines the aesthetics of traditional fashion with modern technology, which makes Clueless Closet unique in the market.

The company’s story is also an example of how small ideas can grow into a global phenomenon. The founders of LookingGLASS started out from a home office, where they tested prototypes with friends and family. The first experiments showed that artificial intelligence can really improve the selection of outfits and bring joy to everyday life. This encouraged the team to develop the concept into a commercial product, which is now receiving global attention at New York Fashion Week.

The innovation behind Clueless Closet is not limited to technology alone. LookingGLASS also wants to promote sustainable fashion. According to the company, when users know how to combine their clothes more efficiently and find new ways to use existing items, unnecessary consumption can be reduced. This is an important message, especially for young consumers, who are increasingly aware of their environmental impact and want to make responsible choices in the field of fashion.

Clueless Closet thus combines three key elements: smart technology, fashion and sustainable consumption. This combination makes it an exceptional product that appeals to both technology enthusiasts and fashion lovers. The startup’s story also highlights the importance of entrepreneurship and creativity: a small idea for an everyday problem can grow into an innovative solution that changes the practices of an entire industry.

Finally, it is worth noting that LookingGLASS’s approach is holistic. The company is not just providing an app or service, but building an ecosystem where the user experiences their wardrobe as a personal, intelligent, and creative partner. Clueless Closet is the first concrete step towards this vision, but LookingGLASS already has plans to expand the service and develop new features that will continue to change the way we think about wardrobes and dressing in the future.

3. Functionality and Features

The biggest appeal of Clueless Closet lies in its practical functionality and user experience. This smart wardrobe is not just an app, but a personal style advisor that makes getting dressed fun, fast and creative. Let’s take a closer look at what Clueless Closet has to offer.
1. Digitalizing your wardrobe

The first step is to digitize your wardrobe. The user can take pictures of their clothes or upload them to the app, and the AI ​​will identify the type, color and material of each item of clothing. Imagine your wardrobe talking to you: all your shirts, pants and accessories are now organized and easily accessible in digital form. This makes everyday life much smoother and saves time in the mornings when you need to find the right outfit in a hurry.
2. Outfit suggestions

Clueless Closet uses AI to suggest different outfit ideas.

For example: you can choose your home clothes and AI will suggest an outfit for a party or the office.
If the weather is unstable, the app can also suggest layering or suitable outerwear.
AI takes into account color compatibility and style so that the end result looks neat, even if you are not particularly fashion-conscious.

3. Daily style advice

Clueless Closet doesn’t just combine clothes, it acts as a personal stylist.

The app can suggest an “outfit of the day” based on the weather, events, and even the user’s mood.
You can also set goals: do you want to dress fashionable, comfortable, or minimalist today? Clueless Closet will automatically take these wishes into account.
This makes getting dressed fun and reduces the stress of making decisions.

4. Outfit customization and creativity

One of the most interesting features of Clueless Closet is the ability to customize your outfits:

You can change parts of an outfit, try different color combinations, or add accessories.

The app also suggests “new ways to wear old clothes” – this way you can creatively utilize existing pieces of clothing without having to constantly buy new ones.

5. Outfits designed for events and special occasions

Clueless Closet can also design outfits for special occasions:

A job interview, a party or a night out with friends – the app suggests outfits that suit the occasion and your own style.
For example: you choose your home clothes in the morning, and AI suggests a neat and stylish outfit for a cocktail party in the evening.

6. Easy integration and user-friendliness

The user interface is designed to be simple and intuitive:

You can browse outfits, save favorites and get reminders about, for example, clothing maintenance or combination tips.
The app is available on mobile and in a web browser, so your wardrobe goes with you wherever you go.
This makes Clueless Closet a practical tool for your busy everyday life.

User experience

Imagine opening the app in the morning and your wardrobe greets you with a friendly greeting: “Today I recommend this outfit!” Daily dressing becomes a game, and old problems – what to wear, what fits – disappear. Clueless Closet combines practicality and creativity in a way that makes every dressing moment meaningful and inspiring.
4. Impact on everyday life and dressing

Clueless Closet is not just a technical innovation – its true meaning is visible in everyday life and the user’s daily life. Most of us feel a rush, stress, and a moment of slight uncertainty in the morning: what to wear today? This simple question may seem insignificant, but it takes time and energy, and sometimes leads to unnecessary purchases or compromises in style. Clueless Closet aims to eliminate these problems.
Time savings

One of the most significant benefits is time savings. According to research, a Finnish user can spend up to 15–20 minutes a day thinking about what to wear – this amounts to over 80 hours a year! Clueless Closet reduces this thinking by providing immediately usable suggestions and ready-made outfits. No more useless “what to wear today” moments, no more hurried wardrobe scrapings over morning coffee. The user quickly gets a ready-made outfit that suits the day, the occasion and their own style.
Making choices easier

The decisions made in front of the wardrobe can seem endless. Clueless Closet acts as a personal style advisor, limiting excessive options and suggesting just the right combinations. This reduces the difficulty of choosing and increases satisfaction with the end result. Imagine that when you open the app in the morning, you are suggested three perfect outfits for different situations of the day – decision-making becomes easy, and there is no need to be frustrated or stressed.

Promoting sustainable consumption

Clueless Closet not only saves time, but also money and the environment. When the app helps you creatively combine existing clothes, unnecessary purchases are reduced. This supports sustainable fashion and consumption habits. According to the Global Fashion Report, 35% of consumers are interested in digital tools that help reduce clothing waste. Clueless Closet meets this need, and offers the user a way to make responsible choices without compromising on style.
Supporting creativity and self-expression

Although Clueless Closet helps in everyday life, it does not limit creativity – quite the opposite. The app suggests alternatives and allows you to try out new combinations. The user can see completely new outfits from familiar clothes that they might not have thought of themselves. This makes dressing fun and inspiring: the wardrobe is no longer a static place, but an active partner that encourages you to experiment and express your own style.
Social and practical benefits

Clueless Closet can also improve your social experience. The app allows you to share outfits with friends, ask for opinions and get feedback. This creates a new kind of community around fashion, while saving time and effort. In addition, the app can remind you of, for example, clothing maintenance or seasonal changes, which makes everyday life smoother and more organized.
User experience in everyday life

Imagine a situation: a busy morning, a coffee mug in your hand, and the app suggests the perfect outfit for that moment. Artificial intelligence has taken into account the weather, the day’s schedule and your style preferences. You don’t have to think about which shirt goes with the pants, or whether the shoes match the bag – Clueless Closet has already done it for you. This not only saves time, but also reduces the stress associated with decision-making and gives you more space to focus on life itself and the important things.
5. Future Outlook

The future of Clueless Closet looks bright, but its significance extends far beyond the current smart closet experience. Imagine your closet knowing in advance your party invitation or work schedule and suggesting the perfect outfit for just the right moment. You can wake up in the morning and AI has already chosen the clothes for the day, taking into account the weather, the occasion and even your mood. This is no longer just science fiction – Clueless Closet is taking us towards this kind of automated and personalized fashion experience in everyday life.
Smart technology integration

In the future, Clueless Closet may integrate even more deeply with smart technology in your home. Imagine AR/VR applications where you can virtually see your outfit before you put it on, or smart mirrors that suggest outfits in real time. In addition, the app can communicate with other smart home systems: for example, weather forecasts and traffic information can be taken into account, allowing the wardrobe to suggest suitable outfits for both outdoor activities and commuting. This combines technology and fashion in a way that makes every dressing moment seamless and fluid.

6. Summary

Clueless Closet is not just an app or a technical innovation – it is the beginning of a new era in the world of dressing. Throughout the article, we have seen how this smart wardrobe combines artificial intelligence, personal style and everyday practicality in a way that makes managing clothes, choosing outfits and dressing a holistic experience. The user no longer has to waste time in front of the wardrobe, worrying about what goes with what, or making unnecessary purchases – Clueless Closet does this for you.

The greatest value of this application is its ability to save time and reduce the stress of decision-making. Morning moments, which used to feel challenging and hectic, now become smooth and meaningful. The user can focus on what is important, whether it is a work day, a meeting with friends or everyday routines, while the wardrobe takes care of the outfits and style. This makes every daily dressing moment a smooth, predictive and even inspiring experience.

Clueless Closet also supports creativity and self-expression. Although the app suggests ready-made outfits, Cheap Soccer Jerseys does not limit the user’s imagination – on the contrary, it encourages them to try new combinations and find their own stylistic solutions. This brings a new kind of life to the wardrobe and makes dressing not only easier, but also more fun. The user can boldly experiment with different colors, materials and styles, and at the same time learn to combine their clothes in previously unnoticed ways.

Sustainability and responsibility are also key elements in the value offered by Clueless Closet. The app helps to optimally utilize existing clothes and reduce unnecessary consumption. This is not only beneficial for the environment, but also beneficial for the user’s finances. When clothes are organized and their use is supported by digital style planning, there is no need to make unnecessary purchases, and the treasures accumulating in the wardrobe get a new life.

Looking ahead, Clueless Closet opens up new possibilities: a smart wardrobe can integrate even more deeply with home technology, utilize AR/VR applications, and communicate with other smart home systems. Imagine your wardrobe knowing your daily schedule, weather forecasts, and special occasions, and automatically suggesting the perfect outfits. This makes getting dressed a seamless part of everyday life, giving the user more time to focus on life and creativity.

In summary, Clueless Closet doesn’t just make getting dressed easier – it changes the entire concept of a wardrobe. It turns it into an active, intelligent, and creative partner that takes care of your style, saves time, and helps you make responsible choices. This innovation brings fashion and technology together in a way that enriches everyday life, inspires creativity, and makes every day more manageable and enjoyable.

Finally, let’s think back to the original morning moment in front of the closet: what if it were no longer a place of stress and uncertainty, but a personal style advisor that makes every dressing moment inspiring? Clueless Closet offers just that opportunity.

V četrtek zvečer je bil Cristiano Ronaldo izključen zaradi nasilništva v porazu Portugalske proti Republiki Irski z 0:2, le korak stran od tega, da bi se vpisal v zgodovino svetovnega prvenstva.

40-letnik ima priložnost, da naslednje poletje utrdi svoj status v Združenih državah Amerike, Kanadi in Mehiki ter se pridruži Lionelu Messiju kot eden od le dveh igralcev v zgodovini, ki sta sodelovala na šestih različnih moških svetovnih prvenstvih. Mnogi navijači že nestrpno čakajo, da bi videli nove Cristiano Ronaldo dresi 2025-26 v akciji na največjem odru.

Vendar pa sta Ronaldo in Portugalska na dublinskem stadionu Aveiva doživela velik poraz. Kljub prevladi na začetku tekme je ekipa Roberta Martíneza ob polčasu zaostajala za dva gola. Troy Parrott je dvakrat zadel in presenetil prej neporaženo gostujočo portugalsko ekipo.

Situacija za branilce naslova v Ligi narodov UEFA se je v 59. minuti še poslabšala. Cristiano Ronaldo je sprva prejel rumeni karton zaradi sunkanja Dare O’Shee s komolcem, a mu je sodnik Glenn Nieberg po ogledu posnetka pokazal rdeči karton, saj je prekršek ocenil kot nasilen.

Ko je portugalski kapetan počasi odhajal z igrišča, je sodnika in občinstvo posmehoval s sarkastičnim aplavzom. Ronaldo je žvižgajočim irskim navijačem pokazal palec gor, preden se je na stranski črti pogovoril s sodnikom in irskim trenerskim štabom.

Ta rdeči karton je prišel na njegovem 226. nastopu za Portugalsko in je bil prvi rdeči karton v njegovi reprezentančni karieri, ki se je začela leta 2003. Legenda Real Madrida je zaradi grozeče suspenzije morda že odigrala svojo zadnjo kvalifikacijsko tekmo za svetovno prvenstvo.

Uvrstitev Portugalske na svetovno prvenstvo 2026 je pod vprašajem

Sprva popolna kvalifikacijska sezona Portugalske se je hitro obrnila na slabše. Zmagovalci evropskega prvenstva leta 2016 so izgubili točke v zaporednih porazih proti Madžarski in Irski.

Portugalska je za neposredno uvrstitev na svetovno prvenstvo 2026 potrebovala le zmago proti kateri koli od teh ekip, vendar ji ni uspelo zmagati na nobeni tekmi. Zdaj bo Martinezova ekipa zaskrbljena zaradi svojega položaja v skupini F – trenutno ima le dve točki prednosti pred drugouvrščeno Madžarsko.

Če Portugalska v prihodnjih dneh brez Ronalda izgubi proti Armeniji v zadnji kvalifikacijski tekmi za svetovno prvenstvo 2026, bi se Madžarska lahko premagala proti Irski in se povzpela na vrh skupine. Ne glede na izid, bodo navijači še vedno ponosno nosili Dresi Portugalska reprezentance.

Niz treh zmag za Portugalsko bi bil precejšen korak nazaj, če bi se morala na koncu uvrstiti v končnico za uvrstitev na svetovno prvenstvo 2026.

Argentinska naloga uvrstitve na svetovno prvenstvo je morda končana z uspešno uvrstitvijo v Nogometni Dresi, La Albiceleste pa je spet na vrhu lestvice, vendar to ne pomeni, da prihajajoče prijateljske tekme niso pomembne. V petek se bodo pomerili z Angolo, a ta tekma je za Lionela Scalonija prinesla nekaj zapletov pri izbiri igralca.

Za potovanje v afriško državo veljajo posebne zahteve glede cepljenja proti rumeni mrzlici, ki jih Nahuel Molina, Julian Alvarez in Giuliano Simeone, vsi igralci Atletica Madrid, niso pravočasno izpolnili. Zaradi tega je bilo treba trojico izločiti iz ekipe, kar je precejšen udarec. Z Lionelom Messijem, ki se stara, Alvarez postaja iz dneva v dan pomembnejši za argentinsko reprezentanco in je v dobri formi za Atletico Madrid z devetimi goli in štirimi podajami v vseh tekmovanjih to sezono.

Simeone si zaradi svoje odlične forme v klubu prizadeva za več igralnega časa, saj uživa v odličnem začetku sezone s tremi goli in petimi podajami v vseh tekmovanjih. Ker lahko oba igrata na več položajih, sta pomembna za Scalonijevo fleksibilno vizijo ekipe, a ker se tekme v vseh tekmovanjih kopičijo, počitek ni najslabša stvar, ki se lahko zgodi.

Enzo Fernandez bo prav tako izpustil to priložnost zaradi edema kosti v desnem kolenu. Fernandezova odsotnost je posledica počitka, da bi se prepričal, da je pripravljen na dolgoročno kariero. Skupaj z Alexisom Mac Allisterjem in Rodrigom De Paulom Fernandez tvori motor argentinske reprezentance. Njegova odsotnost bi lahko omogočila bratsko povezanost v ekipi, saj je bil vpoklican Kevin Mac Allister iz Union Saint-Gilloise. Starejši od bratov Mac Allister je eden od štirih igralcev v Scalonijevi ekipi, ki še ni nastopil za reprezentanco, poleg Maxima Perroneja, Joaquina Panichellija in Gianluce Prestiannija.

Pridobivanje novih obrazov v vsakem oknu je eden glavnih načinov, otroski nogometni dresi kako lahko Argentina ostane na vrhu. Tudi z Messijem v ekipi bi lahko prihodnost številke 10 bila tam tudi z Nicom Pazom iz Coma. Zmožnost, da so zgodaj pripeljali igralce, kot sta on in Valentin Barco, je zagotovila, da je tudi takrat, ko mora Argentina tekmovati brez svojih zvezdnikov, veliko igralcev, ki poznajo sistem, s katerim morajo prizadevati, da ekipa ostane na vrhu. Želja po zmagi na dveh zaporednih svetovnih prvenstvih je ta integracija ključnega pomena, saj že samo ponavljanje igre tvega, da bo postala zastarela, vendar Argentina ni nikoli zadovoljna.

Prvič, oblikovalska filozofija za leto 2025 je popolna mešanica inovacij in tradicije. Klasična modro-rdeča barvna shema je ohranjena, vendar z nežnim gradientnim prehodom, ki spominja na sredozemski sončni zahod ali veličastno nebo nad nevihtno nočjo v Öresundu. Nike je spretno vključil asimetrični dizajn črt, ki ne le izgleda odlično, ampak tudi izboljša atletsko gibljivost. Predstavljajte si, da bi žogo preigravali med lokalno tekmo v Fredericii, kjer se tkanina gladko preliva z vašimi gibi, ne da bi vas omejovala. Podobne modele iz prejšnjih sezon sem preizkusil med svojimi tedenskimi teki v Federend Parku in razlike v novi različici so bile takoj očitne. Nova različica ima neonske poudarke na ovratniku in manšetah, ki jih navdihuje moderna silhueta Barcelone, kar ni le praktično, ampak tudi izboljša vidljivost pri treningu pod uličnimi svetilkami Aalborga v temnih zimskih nočeh.

Zdaj pa se pogovorimo o osrednji tehnologiji: tkanini. Nikejeva tehnologija Vaporknit je bila nadgrajena, kar je v primerjavi z lanskim letom privedlo do osupljivih 10 % zmanjšanja teže. To pomeni, da se dres zdi lažji tudi po eni uri visokointenzivnega intervalnega treninga. V naši regiji, kjer se sneg in led pogosto izmenjujeta, je zračnost ključnega pomena. Lasersko izrezane prezračevalne luknje na straneh in hrbtu dresa spodbujajo pretok zraka, kar omogoča, da znoj izhlapi hitreje, kot lahko rečete “tiki-taka”. Se spomnite, ko ste prejšnjo zimo trenirali na snegu blizu Esbjerga v starem slovenski nogometni dres za otroke? Zeblo mi je, ker je bila tkanina tako vpojna. Dres za leto 2025 to težavo popolnoma rešuje. Uporablja tehnologijo Dri-FIT ADV, ki hitro odvaja znoj in vas ohranja suhe, kar je idealno za naše deževne jeseni v južnem Jutlandu.

Trajnost igra pomembno vlogo in smo svetovni prvaki v recikliranju in varstvu okolja. Več kot 75 % tkanine je izdelane iz recikliranega poliestra in oceanskih plastičnih steklenic. Predstavljajte si, da nosite dres, ki ne le izboljša vaše spretnosti, ampak tudi varuje planet. V Barceloni so povabili igralce, kot sta Pedri in Yamal, da preizkusijo dres med visokointenzivnimi treningi, rezultati pa so pokazali zmanjšano utrujenost mišic. Za nas amaterje to pomeni, da lahko treniramo dlje, ne da bi se utrudili. Za navzkrižni trening v telovadnici Odense priporočam kombinacijo s kompresijskimi kratkimi hlačami – počutili se boste kot profesionalec.

Zdaj pa se pogovorimo o prileganju. Dres za leto 2025 ima oprijet kroj, ki se prilega telesu, ne da bi bil pretesen. Na voljo je posebna ženska kolekcija s širšimi boki in krajšimi rokavi, ki je kot nalašč za ženske ekipe Superlige ali amatersko nogometno ekipo Henning’s. Velikosti segajo od XS do XXL, na spletni strani pa lahko uporabite vodnik po velikostih, da se prepričate, da izberete pravo velikost. Cena je glede na kakovost razumna. Brezplačna dostava je na voljo za naročila nad določenim zneskom, izdelek pa bo v nekaj dneh prispel neposredno v vaš poštni nabiralnik v Randersu.

Pravzaprav sem bil osebno priča, kako je Nogometni dresi Barcelona 2025  spremenil igro za lokalne klube. Na primer, trener mladinske ekipe v Viborgu je svojo ekipo opremil z replikami dresov – otroci so tekli hitreje, ker so bili bolj motivirani. Tehnologija vključuje tudi antibakterijsko obdelavo, zato dresi ne razvijejo neprijetnega vonja kot po igranju v blatu na stadionu Nestorvár. Pranje v vodi s 30 stopinjami zagotavlja, da barve ostanejo žive in sveže tudi po več sezonah.

Dres za leto 2025 predstavlja pomemben korak naprej v primerjavi s prejšnjimi modeli. Se spomnite dresa za leto 2020? Bil je dober, a težek za deževne dni. Trenutni dres je peresno lahek in ima UV-zaščito, zato je popoln za poletne treninge v sončnem vremenu na Funenu. Za zbiratelje so na voljo tudi dresi v omejeni izdaji s posebnimi predsezonskimi značkami.

Ko je Arne Slot predstavil, kaj se mora zgoditi, Luka Modric dresi preden bo njegova ekipa sploh lahko razmišljala o boju za naslov, se je bilo težko otresti občutka, da si vse to že slišal. Treba je omeniti, da ne od samega Slota. Pred tem mogočnim padcem si še nikoli ni moral zastaviti cilja “rezultat za rezultatom”.

Pri tem pa je to posebno miselnost (London je popačen, preveč gleda Arsenal) vrgel 364 dni nazaj, na tisto, kar se je zdelo prezgodnja končna točka še enega izziva za naslov. Mikel Arteta je pravkar videl, kako je njegova ekipa z neodločenim izidom 2:2 pri Chelseaju prepustila vodilnim še večji del. Tudi on je vztrajal, da zdaj ni čas za razpravo o boju za naslov, v katerem so mnogi pričakovali, da bodo ključni jezdeci, da je vse, kar lahko njegova ekipa od tu naprej stori, “zmaga, zmaga, zmaga, zmaga, zmaga, zmaga, zmaga in zmaga”.

Zgodovina beleži, da Arsenalu ni uspelo narediti tako, kot mu je naročil njihov trener. Pravzaprav so le dvakrat “zmagali, zmagali, zmagali”. Točko dlje od vrha kot osemtočkovna luknja, ki jo ima Liverpool, Artetajeva ekipa ni nikoli več dosegla padcev, ki so jih izgubili v prvi tretjini sezone. Standardi, ki so si jih zadali, so bili preveč vrtoglavi. Eno nihanje je rodilo drugo; vrzel se je zdela prevelika in igralci se niso mogli upreti temu, da bi se osredotočili na tekmovanja, v katerih so še vedno igrali.

Že zdaj lahko vidite, kako bi to lahko bil vzorec za Liverpool v sezoni 2025/26. Od zdaj do božiča so njihovi ligaški nastopi videti precej ugodnejši, vendar je dovolj le naporen obisk londonskega stadiona ali nekaj slabe končnice proti Robinu Roefsu in obstaja možnost, da se Arsenal in Manchester City odrineta.

Kot je priznal Andrew Robertson, bi lahko sledilo zelo naporno delo.

»Zadali smo si velik, težak boj,« je dejal po porazu s 3:0 na Etihadu, »vendar mislim, da nobena od ekip ne bo zares pogledala na lestvico, dokler ne bomo na polovici sezone. To moramo storiti, vendar moramo točke zbirati bolj dosledno. Potem pa bomo videli, kje bomo po božiču ali čem drugem. Osredotočiti se moramo le nase in na raven uspešnosti.

»Mislim, da o naslovu ne moreš govoriti tako zgodaj v sezoni, ne glede na to, na katerem položaju si, ampak moraš nato dosledno začeti zmagovati tekme, da bi to sploh prišlo pod vprašaj. To zagotovo ni vprašanje, o katerem se govori v garderobi ali kjerkoli drugje. Moramo se le vrniti na raven, za katero vemo, da jo zmoremo, predvsem na raven, ki smo jo dosegli na zadnjih dveh tekmah. Če bomo to počeli bolj redno, bomo osvojili več točk, kot jih ne bomo.«

Težave z izborom igralcev

Pri Liverpoolu se mora nekaj drastično spremeniti. To se lahko začne na taktični ravni. Slot se je prejšnji teden vrnil k lanskosezonskemu vzorcu z velikim uspehom proti Aston Villi in Real Madridu, zmagi, ki sta mu prinesli dve od skromnih štirih tekem, ki jih je ta ekipa ohranila brez mreže v 17 tekmah. Omeniti velja, da je mož sam govoril o svojih pomislekih, da so nasprotniki morda ugotovili ta poseben pristop na koncu prejšnje sezone. Navsezadnje so prvaki izgubili 40 odstotkov tekem, odkar jim je Paris Saint-Germain zdrsnil v Ligi prvakov. Težave so se morda zaenkrat še poslabšale zaradi dejanj vodstva v premoru, a to je bistvo. Bile so tam.

To je bilo očitno, ko jih je City odrinil na stran. Mnogim se je zdelo, da Liverpoolu manjka poguma za boj, da so dogodki prejšnjih osmih dni preveč iztrgali iz njega, kar je zaskrbljujoč znak, saj so njihovi gostitelji igrali 24 ur pozneje. Namesto tega je Slot krivdo za težave v prvem polčasu prevalil nase.

»Igralci zlahka zmagajo v dvobojih, če načrt igre in taktika delujeta, in mislim, da se je to zgodilo proti Villi in proti Madridu,« je dejal. »Zdaj smo se zelo mučili, ker so na sredino igrišča pripeljali toliko igralcev, in nekaterim našim igralcem je bilo takrat težko sprejeti prave odločitve. Ni šlo za to, da moji igralci niso želeli sodelovati v dvoboju, ampak so morali veliko teči, ker je bil [City] veliko boljši z žogo kot mi.«

Liverpool brez žoge običajno brani v postavitvi med 4-2-3-1 in 4-2-4, odvisno od tega, ali je Dominik Szoboszlai potisnjen v prvo linijo za presing. V prvem polčasu je City z izjemno učinkovitostjo našel luknje v tej postavitvi, Rayan Cherki se je premikal po igrišču in svoji ekipi dal vsaj štiri možnosti za raztezanje Liverpoolove trojice, Erling Haaland pa se je občasno tudi umaknil iz prve linije, da bi dodal še več teže. Liverpool se je lahko odzval le tako, da je na sredino igrišča metal vedno več igralcev, s čimer je Conorja Bradleyja pustil brez obrambe, ko ga je Jeremy Doku spravil v mešalnik.

Zdaj je le peščica ekip, ki lahko Liverpoolu storijo tisto, kar je storil skoraj vrhunec učinkovitosti Cityja. Ni jih veliko, ki igrajo v Premier ligi. Če si bo na primer Nuno Espirito Santo čez tri tedne zaželel napolniti sredino s Tomasom Soucekom in Jamesom Ward-Prowsesom, bo to verjetno zmaga za Slot. Vendar je to le eden redkih načinov, kako oderati tega posebnega Liverpoolskega mačka.

V njihovem rekordu prejetih mrtvih žog je zagotovo nekaj nesreče, sedem prejetih golov iz 3,4 xG, toda Slotova navidezna zavrnitev gola Nica Gonzaleza, Cityjevega drugega, kot nič drugega kot “standardni položaj” je bila zaskrbljujoča. Ekipe se lahko branijo in zaskrbljujoče je bilo, kako slabo pripravljen se je zdel Liverpool, ko je njihov nasprotnik z nekaj kratkimi podajami manevriral v kot.

Te primerjave z lanskoletnim Arsenalom pridejo prav, če pomislimo na poškodbe. Liverpool zagotovo še ni bil deležen takšnih neusmiljenih udarcev, kot so bili topničarji pozneje v sezoni 2024/25, a v tej fazi prejšnje sezone to za kandidate za naslov ni bil problem. Pravzaprav so izgubili le eno pomembno osebnost v svoji ekipi, Martina Odegaarda, ki si je prehitro opomogel od poškodbe gležnja, ker napad brez njega preprosto ni mogel steči.

V primeru Liverpoola ne nadomestimo Alexandra Isaka (čeprav bi morda pomagalo, če bi se pomeril s Hugom Ekitikejem, zdaj ko je Francoz ponorel), ampak Alissona. Giorgi Mamardashvili je odkar je stopil med vratnice, igral odlično, predvsem pri obrambi enajstmetrovke Haalandu, vendar ni najboljši vratar v svoji generaciji. Prav tako nima Alissonovih sposobnosti igranja z žogo, spretnosti, s katero lahko obrambno linijo potisne pet metrov po igrišču, niti avtoritete, ki bi sevala onkraj zadnje črte. V času, ko je toliko totemov lanskoletne zmage narobe – os Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Alexis Mac Allister, Mohamed Salah – potrebujejo preobrazbeni vpliv najboljšega vratarja v igri.

Lahko Liverpool dosega ‘rezultat za rezultatom’?

Če nič drugega, bi jim resnično pomagalo, če bi imeli resnično elitnega vratarja, medtem ko so na bokih tako ranljivi, kot so bili doslej v tej sezoni. Trenutno ni veliko argumentov za to, da bi Liverpool lahko dosegal “rezultat za rezultatom”, glede na to, kako so njihovi obrambni standardi v tej sezoni padli. Še enkrat, vzporednice s starim Arsenalom so presenetljive, morda celo nekoliko bolj izrazite. V enajstih tekmah sezone je Artetajeva ekipa prešla iz ekip, ki so držale ekipo, na izjemnih 0,69 pričakovanih golov brez enajstmetrovk (npxG) na tekmo na 1,03. Tudi Liverpool je omahoval in je dovolil, da se gnitje, ki se je začelo okoli marca, nadaljuje v sezoni, kjer dopuščajo 1,12 npxG na tekmo.

Za dosledno doseganje rezultatov, ki osvajajo naslov, s takšnimi osnovnimi obrambnimi metrikami je potreben eden največjih napadov v športu. Liverpool tega nima. V 11 tekmah Premier lige so dosegli 18 točk, kar je dovolj za šesto največ, in imajo 17,25 npxG, kar je sedmi najboljši rezultat. Ko vam to da razliko v npxG, ki je s povprečjem 0,44 na tekmo šele peti najboljši rezultat v ligi, se ne profilirate kot ekipa, ki bo šla v napad. Pripovedni lok te sezone se morda zdi podoben Arsenalovemu, vendar so podatki bližje Aston Villi iz sezone 2024/25, ki je v preostalih 27 tekmah sezone osvojila 48 točk. Dovolj je reči, da nikoli niso dosegli “rezultata za rezultatom”.

To je bilo v diviziji, ki je bila morda bolj stratificirana kot v tej sezoni. Zgodba prvih 11 tekem sezone je, kot je dejal Slot, “ena ekipa je precej daleč spredaj … ostale so precej blizu.” Tudi v razliki v npxG ni velike vrzeli. Od Liverpoola s 4,88 do Tottenhama z -4,26 je 14 ekip. Morda sta le Wolverhampton Wanderers in Burnley to sezono resnično slaba. Če odštejemo morda polovico tekem, ki smo jih imeli lani, bo veliko težje priti v formo.

Na papirju se Liverpool takoj po reprezentančnem premoru sooči z ekipama, Otroški Nogometni dresi ki sta bili na 18. in 19. mestu, nato pa z dvema novopečenima ekipama, ki sta napredovali v višji rang. V resnici se zdi, da se tako West Ham kot Nottingham Forest pod vodstvom izkušenih trenerjev, ki so dobro podkovani v obrambi in protinapadih, krepita. Tudi Leeds na Elland Roadu se sliši kot težka naloga, Sunderland morda ne bo tako močan zunaj Stadium of Light, ampak bi stavili, da ne bodo Liverpoolu zadali krvavega nosu po tem, kar so storili Arsenalu?

Enako so se topničarji počutili pred 12 meseci. Mislili so, da so prebrodili težki del in da je rešitev na obzorju. Namesto tega so na koncu postali živ dokaz, da niti kandidati za naslov ne morejo pritisniti stikala in “zmaga, zmaga, zmaga”. Če to velja za Liverpool, potem je njihov boj za naslov že končan.

To derby drużyn, które mogą być niezwykle zadowolone ze swojego losu w sobotę, buty piłkarskie męskie kiedy Sunderland podejmie Arsenal na Stadium of Light. Po 10 kolejkach obaj znajdują się w sytuacji, o jakiej nawet nie marzyli, zanim piłka została kopnięta, i wiedzą, że zwycięstwo w tym meczu może ich idealnie przygotować na decydujący moment sezonu w nadchodzących miesiącach.

Dla Arsenalu powodem do optymizmu nie jest tyle pozycja w tabeli – ich szanse na tytuł mistrzowskie były dawno ugruntowane – co stan boiska za nimi. Poobijana i poobijana kontuzjami w ataku, drużyna Mikela Artety wciąż ma sześć punktów przewagi nad drugim miejscem. Wygrana w sobotę powiększy przewagę nad co najmniej jednym z rywali w walce o tytuł, gdyż Manchester City podejmie Liverpool następnego dnia.

Nie ma potrzeby szczegółowego wyjaśniania, dlaczego początek Sunderlandu był tak znakomity. Zajmują czwarte miejsce. Dla większości drużyn, które awansowały, zajęcie 14. miejsca byłoby triumfem na tym etapie sezonu, tym bardziej, że – podobnie jak Regis Le Bris – wyprzedzili nieco harmonogram, uciekając z Championship. Sunderland sprytnie rekrutował po awansie, budując doświadczenie w defensywie, ale większość, w tym ten felieton, podejrzewała, że ​​to jedynie zapewni im zwycięstwo.

Teraz? Cóż, będą musieli znieść lanie w stylu Michaela Spinksa, żeby położyć się na deski. Nawet to może nie wystarczyć. Zobaczmy, co musiałoby się wydarzyć w ciągu kolejnych 28 meczów, żeby Sunderland spadł z ligi, a Arsenal, dlaczego nie, żeby utrzymał się na szczycie.

W 10 meczach Premier League w tym sezonie Arsenal zgromadził 25 punktów, co dało mu znaczną przewagę nad grupą pościgową. Teraz chwyciłem za zegarek Casio (dostępne są również inne marki) i po szczegółowym zbadaniu mogę potwierdzić, że liderzy ligi zdobywają obecnie średnio dwa i pół punktu na mecz. W całym sezonie Arsenal miałby 95 punktów, co było wynikiem zaledwie pięciokrotnym w historii Premier League. Cztery z nich miały miejsce między 2017 a 2020 rokiem, kiedy to Jurgen Klopp i Pep Guardiola toczyli zacięte boje o tytuł mistrza.

Od tego czasu liczba punktów wymagana do zdobycia tytułu mistrza Premier League znacznie spadła. W zeszłym sezonie Liverpool zdobył tytuł, zdobywając zaledwie 84 punkty; tylko dwa razy w tym stuleciu liga wygrała z mniejszym dorobkiem: Manchester United w sezonie 2002/03 (83) i Leicester City w sezonie 2015/16, w którym doszło do wycieku gazu. Arsenal uważałby, że ma duże szanse na zdobycie tytułu, gdyby udało mu się osiągnąć średnią z ostatnich pięciu lat dla pierwszego miejsca. Zaokrąglając do najbliższej liczby całkowitej, wynosi ona 89. To dało im drugie miejsce w sezonie 2023-24 i byłoby o jedno mniej niż klubowy rekord ustanowiony przez Niepokonanych.

Oczywiście Arteta jako pierwszy będzie twierdził, Nike Mercurial Vapor SG że to maraton, a nie sprint. Zapytany w piątek, czy tylko Arsenal może powstrzymać Arsenal przed wygraniem ligi, był jednoznaczny. „Każdy zespół ma potencjał i jestem pewien, że również wiarę, że może to zrobić. Jesteśmy tego w pełni świadomi. Znamy swoje mocne strony, wiemy, co musimy poprawić i po prostu się na tym skupiamy”.

Musiałby jednak przyznać, że Arsenal wydostał się z pułapek z imponującą szybkością. Jeśli tak dalej pójdzie, może nie uda się ich dogonić.

Załóżmy, że Arsenal utrzyma tempo 95 punktów. Dogonienie ich wymagałoby cudu ze strony Manchesteru City, a w jeszcze większym stopniu Liverpoolu. Od tego momentu Misja 95 wymagałaby od City tempa 2,71 punktu na mecz, co w całym sezonie daje 103 punkty.

Innymi słowy, weźmy najskuteczniejszą maszynę do generowania punktów w historii angielskiej piłki nożnej – setników Guardioli z sezonu 2017/18 – i znajdźmy gdzieś kolejne zwycięstwo. Aby zdobyć 76 punktów w 28 meczach, City mogłoby ujść na sucho z dwiema porażkami, jeśli wygra 25 z pozostałych. Wygranie zaledwie 24 wystarczy, by pozostać niepokonanym. Dla Liverpoolu? To będzie 25 zwycięstw, dwa remisy i jedna porażka, nie mówiąc już o różnicy bramek, którą musieliby pokonać.

Dajmy więc szansę grupie pościgowej. Załóżmy, że Arsenal spadnie do poziomu przeciętnego zdobywcy tytułu w latach 2020 i zdobędzie 89 punktów. Nie potrzeba dużego spadku formy, żeby to się stało. Jest całkowicie przewidywalne, że kontuzje Gabriela Magalhaesa, Bukayo Saki i/lub kilku innych mogą sprawić, że drużyna będzie zdobywać 87 punktów w sezonie. Co wtedy? Cóż, zarówno City, jak i Liverpool musiałyby gromadzić punkty przez resztę sezonu, tak jak Arsenal, który obecnie zdobywa 2,5 punktu na mecz.

I tu jest sedno sprawy. Żadna z tych drużyn nie wygląda na to, by miała zacząć grać tak dobrze, jak liderzy ligi. Zarówno City, jak i Liverpool są daleko w tyle za najlepszym w lidze oczekiwanym stosunkiem bramek bez rzutów karnych (npxGD) Kanonierów, wynoszącym 10,22, który w przeliczeniu na mecz plasuje się na równi z drużynami, które zdobyły mistrzostwo w sezonach 2020-21 i 2024-25. Nawiasem mówiąc, te dwie drużyny zakończyły sezon z 86 i 84 punktami, a żeby grupa pościgowa osiągnęła ten poziom, musiałaby osiągnąć tempo 90 punktów.

Po 10 meczach xG jest lepszym prognostykiem przyszłych wyników niż punkty i obecnie żadna z drużyn na drugim (City – 8,78) i trzecim (Liverpool – 4,86) miejscu nie może się równać z liderami ligi. Arsenalowi wystarczy więc utrzymanie obecnych standardów. Pokonanie Sunderlandu sprawi, że wymagania stawiane grupie pościgowej staną się trudniejsze.

Przy tak wysokim bilansie punktowym margines błędu jest znacznie większy. Gdyby Arsenal przegrał dwa kolejne mecze, spadłby z 95 punktów do poniżej 80. Mogą nawet nie być na szczycie tabeli w 12. kolejce. W walce o tytuł w krótkim czasie wiele może pójść nie tak.

Nie dla Sunderlandu. Jeśli chodzi o nich, wiele musi pójść nie tak w wyjątkowo długim okresie, zanim zaryzykują, że ten sezon okaże się rozczarowaniem. Zanim jeszcze piłka padła, Le Bris mówił o drużynie, która „na pewno będzie walczyć”, ale trudne chwile dopiero nadejdą – pięć zwycięstw i trzy remisy w pierwszych dziesięciu meczach ligowych wystarczają na czwarte miejsce. To triumf obrony i organizacji – osiem straconych bramek, lepszy wynik niż tylko Arsenal. Nie jest to jednak całkowicie nie do utrzymania – od początku sezonu 2020/21 tylko 21 drużyn straciło mniej bramek na mecz niż 1,06 Sunderlandu.

Nic dziwnego, że właściciel Kyril Louis-Dreyfus mówi o podejściu do styczniowego okna transferowego „z myślą o miejscu w pierwszej dziesiątce”. Zapytaj kibica Sunderlandu pod koniec lipca o jego cel punktowy na początku sezonu, a wielu prawdopodobnie postawiłoby na 40 punktów, co jest archetypem gwarantującym utrzymanie. Cóż, są już prawie w połowie drogi. Dwadzieścia dwa punkty w 28 meczach to tempo 30 punktów w całym sezonie.

Z drugiej strony, ci z Was, którzy znają Premier League, wiedzą, że minęło sporo czasu, odkąd można było spaść z 40 punktami na koncie, począwszy od West Hamu, który „był zbyt dobry, by spaść” z 42 punktami. Blackpool i Birmingham City spadły w zapadnię z 39 punktami w sezonie 2010/11, ale od tego czasu próg utrzymania się jeszcze bardziej spadł. Średnia z 14 lat od tamtej pory sugerowałaby, że 34 punkty by wystarczyły.

W latach po pandemii COVID-19 często zdarzało się, że liczba punktów w okolicach 20 punktów mogła trzymać Cię w Premier League jak na drożdżach, ale Sunderland niewątpliwie potrzebowałby chwili wytchnienia. Załóżmy, że 33 punkty to punkt, po którym drużyna może spaść z ligi. Jak nieudolny musiałby być Sunderland, żeby spaść do dolnej trójki? A może to coś więcej niż nieumyślna niekompetencja i wkracza w świat jakiejś błędnej wersji Philadelphia 76ers z ery Procesu?

No cóż, nie do końca. Piętnaście punktów w 28 meczach to nieco poniżej 23 punktów w całym sezonie. Jest 10 drużyn, które nie osiągnęły tego pułapu, w tym dwie poprzednie edycje Sunderlandu. Można sobie wyobrazić, że każda drużyna, która awansowała, mogłaby przez długi czas utrzymywać się na poziomie poniżej 20 punktów lub gorszym, bo, cóż, wiele z nich tak właśnie robiło. Oto Sheffield United, Norwich i Ipswich.

Być może jednak istnieje inny sposób spojrzenia na to. Co by było, gdyby coś się zmieniło w Sunderlandzie i stali się jedną z najgorszych drużyn w historii Premier League do końca sezonu? Załóżmy, że zatrudnili Maxa Bialystocka i Leo Blooma na stanowiska dyrektorów sportowych, posadzili na ławce rezerwowych solidnych weteranów, takich jak Granit Xhaka, Reinildo i znakomity Omar Alderete, i zrobiliby z tego wszystkiego prawdziwą awanturę. Krótko mówiąc, załóżmy, że przegraliby Derby County w sezonie 2007/08, haniebny sezon z 11 punktami, tak słaby, że nawet zeszłoroczne Southampton nie było w stanie ich dogonić.

Gdyby Sunderland zdobywał punkty w tempie Derby przez resztę sezonu, zakończyłby sezon z 26 punktami. Zgadnijcie, gdzie by to ich zaprowadziło w sezonie 2024/25?