French giants Marseille have struggled to live up to their reputation as one of Ligue 1’s biggest clubs this season. Mid-table mediocrity is not what Didier Deschamps ordered. Yet it is what the side currently endure.
Andre Villas-Boas has set about transforming the way Chelsea play the game since landing from FC Porto in the summer. The Portuguese is keen to bring breathtaking football to Stamford Bridge, along with with success.
Russian football has seen its fair share of clubs head out of business in recent years. One of the latest to close, FC Sochi, offer an insight into a Russian game of deep complexities.
Arsenal have endured a poor start to the season and have already lost significant ground in the Premier League title race. Is this because Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has failed to evolve his side’s tactics?
After three barren seasons under Claude Puel, Lyon look revived with Remi Garde at the helm. Despite the former Arsenal man’s limited experience, Les Gones are once again enjoying their football – and looking a force.
RC Strasbourg have had a colourful history and no period contained as many twists as the early 20th century. As war raged, Strasbourg faced a shifting landscape with courage.
Paris Saint-Germain received huge investment over the summer from the Middle East and the cash has been splashed at the Parc des Princes. Big things are expected from France’s capital club.
Last season in France saw Rudi Garcia’s Lille storm to the Ligue 1 title, but in 2011/12 it will be tough for the side to defend their crown. Paris Saint-Germain in particular have splashed the cash. We preview the season ahead.
Germany’s Bundesliga returns for another season of thrills and spills. Last time Borussia Dortmund picked up the title, but Bayern Munich have never gone more than one season without lifting the shield. We preview the 2011/12 Bundesliga.
Spanish side Alaves were embarking upon their first European campaign in 2001 and stunningly reached the UEFA Cup final. Liverpool were a step too far, but they still excelled.
