Pitch Points: Can Nancy...

Could Inter Miami be Even Stronger by 2026?

Lionel Messi has secured an MLS Cup title. While this may not be a highlight in the GOAT’s extensive list of accomplishments, his joyous celebrations after the 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps showcased just how significant this win was for him. For Messi, this was more than just another trophy; it represented a fulfilling ‘mission accomplished’ moment.

For legends Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, it marked the end of their careers on a high note, both retiring as MLS Cup champions and integral parts of Inter Miami’s success story. However, it’s worth noting that by the end of their careers, both players had become liabilities; Alba struggled defensively, while a long-gone burst of speed left Busquets with limited mobility.

This might pave the way for Inter Miami to enhance their squad during the off-season. Following the victory celebrations at Chase Stadium, club owner Jorge Mas indicated that they are already eyeing replacements for Alba and Busquets, with former Tottenham Hotspur left-back Sergio Reguilón reportedly among their targets.

Inter Miami’s playoff journey to the MLS Cup win could inform their transfer strategy moving forward. Surrounding Messi with younger, more dynamic players allowed head coach Javier Mascherano to implement an aggressive, high-energy approach to the game. By seeking out more players who fit this mold, Inter Miami could become an even greater force in the league next year.

Are Celtic Setting Up Nancy for Failure?

On Sunday, Wilfried Nancy took to the pitch for the first time as Celtic manager, receiving a reception from fans that few new managers ever experience. After a lengthy hiring process, the excitement was palpable. However, the jubilation quickly turned to disappointment as Celtic suffered a 2-1 defeat to Hearts, with their only goal coming in stoppage time.

The boos from the fans weren’t primarily aimed at Nancy; he had only two training sessions with his team prior to the match. Instead, the dissatisfaction seemed directed at the club’s board, which has faced criticism for the team’s struggles this season.

These setbacks can be traced back to the summer transfer window when Celtic allowed key players to depart without signing adequate replacements (many fans believe the issue extends beyond that). Ultimately, the club spent nearly €15m/$17.5m on wingers in a desperate effort to salvage their summer plans, yet Nancy’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation doesn’t suit a focus on wide play. This has sparked debates regarding his tactics and the use of a mini tactics board to guide players through a confused performance.

Nancy now finds himself with a squad that appears ill-fitted to his vision. His challenging start does not bode well, especially with significant matches against Roma in the Europa League and St Mirren in the League Cup final on the horizon. He is about to learn that this is not a typical managerial role.

Is Salah’s Time at Liverpool Coming to an End?

During a recent press conference, Mohamed Salah expressed his frustration after being benched for the entire 3-3 draw against Leeds United. Salah accused the club of attempting to shift blame onto him, stating, “It is very clear that someone wanted me to take all the heat,” in a seven-minute speech that dissected his relationship with manager Arne Slot.

Perhaps this wasn’t merely a complaint; similar direct comments from Salah previously coincided with contract negotiations, showcasing his understanding of leverage. Yet this time, he might have misjudged his position. Salah has not been the record-breaking player he was last season, appearing lackluster and dispassionate, leading to his removal from the starting lineup since Liverpool has performed better without him.

If Salah’s outburst was a ploy to force management to choose sides, the current situation lends little belief that he’s the favored option. With offseason acquisitions such as Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak, and Florian Wirtz, Liverpool is beginning to transition into a future that may not include Salah. His comments could inadvertently expedite a change that has been in motion since summer.

Pitch Points: Can Nancy…