Soccer Intelligence

NYCFC’s Andrea Pirlo: MLS has too much running, too little play

23 May in All, Interviews with the greats, originals, Soccer Intelligence, Youth Soccer news

Former Italy midfielder Andre Pirlo said that U.S. players are not taught technical skills at an early age and that ultimately affects the quality of play in Major League Soccer. The 37-year-old, who is in his second season with New York City FC, said that more...

I’m a romantic, says Xavi, heartbeat of Barcelona and Spain

20 October in All, Interviews with the greats, originals, Soccer Intelligence

Many have described Barcelona's 5-0 win over Real Madrid last November as the greatest performance ever. Even Wayne Rooney admits that he stood up in his living room and started applauding. [Xavi's face lights up]. Yeah? Really? Rooney? That makes me proud. Rooney, wow! Rooney is...

FOR POSSESSION’S SAKE: THE DECLINE OF STERILE DOMINATION

13 October in All, originals, Soccer Intelligence, Soccer News, Soccer Psychology

IN JUNE 2008, PEP GUARDIOLA BECAME MANAGER OF FC BARCELONA. In the same month, Spain became champions of Europe when they defeated Germany by a goal to nil in Vienna. What followed was a period of domination that bordered on revolution. Spain and Barcelona weren’t just...