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Articles by Xhulio Zeneli
Donyell Malen at AS Roma This Season: Complete Tactical and Statistical Analysis
When AS Roma signed Donyell Malen in January 2026 after his short spell at Aston Villa, many saw it as a market opportunity rather than a blockbuster deal. But only a few months later, Malen has become one of the most impactful winter signings in Serie A. The Dutch attacker has brought goals, pace, verticality and unpredictability to Roma’s frontline, quickly becoming one of the key reasons behind their push for European qualification.
Denzel Dumfries: The Relentless Engine Powering Inter’s Right Flank
Denzel Dumfries’ journey at Inter Milan has never been short of drama, drive, and decisive moments. Since arriving in 2021, the Dutch right wing-back has faced scrutiny and praise in equal measure. But the 2024–25 season was arguably his most complete and defining campaign yet — a year that combined physical dominance, tactical maturity, and moments of individual brilliance on the European stage. Explosive Start, Consistent Impact Dumfries began the 2024–25 season with clear intent.
“Eddie Howe Is a Blend of Kevin Keegan and Sir Bobby Robson” - Warren Barton on Newcastle’s Present and Future
Warren Barton is a well-known former British defender who played for several important and historic clubs in England. One of the most significant periods of his career came at Newcastle United, where he spent seven years. Barton played alongside legends such as Alan Shearer, David Ginola, Les Ferdinand, and others. He also had the opportunity to work under four renowned managers: Kevin Keegan, Kenny Dalglish, Ruud Gullit, and Sir Bobby Robson.
Tactical Analysis: Jack Grealish at Everton (2025-26)
Jack Grealish joined Everton on loan from Manchester City for the 2025-26 Premier League season, seeking regular playing time after limited minutes at City. Under David Moyes, Grealish has been given greater tactical freedom than he experienced under Pep Guardiola, a key factor in his early form rebound. Moyes’s simple yet effective guidance, “when you get the ball, go and play,” encapsulates his freedom of expression within team shape.
How Important Is João Neves for Paris Saint-Germain?
João Neves is a central midfielder who primarily operates in a deep-lying role, often as part of a double pivot in a 4-2-3-1 or similar structure. At PSG, he’s utilized as both a pivot to help build from deep and a link between defense and attack, much like a hybrid between a classic deep-lying playmaker and a modern box-to-box midfielder.
Bryan Mbeumo: The Tactical Engine Powering Manchester United’s New Attack
Bryan Mbeumo has quickly become one of Manchester United’s most influential attacking figures under manager Rúben Amorim. His role at United isn’t just about goals — it’s tactical, physical, and multifaceted, influencing how United build play, attack space, and press opponents. 1) Mbeumo’s Role in Amorim’s Tactical System Preferred Formation: 3-4-3 / 3-4-2-1 Hybrid Amorim has largely used a 3-4-3 system at United. In this setup: Why Does Nothing Seem to Change With Manchester United?
Estêvão Willian at Chelsea: A Tactical and Technical Deep Dive into the Premier League’s Newest Prodigy
When Chelsea completed the highly anticipated transfer of Estêvão Willian, they were not just signing another talented winger — they were investing in a generational project. Born in 2007 and arriving in Europe with the weight of expectation, the Brazilian starlet has already begun to justify the buzz surrounding him. His first months in the Premier League and the Champions League have offered a fascinating glimpse into the player he is now, and the superstar he could become.
Exclusive: Former Tottenham Hero Says Club Is Stronger Than Ever Under Thomas Frank
Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Paul Miller has praised the progress of his old club under new boss Thomas Frank, describing Spurs as being “in a very good place”, despite a few recent setbacks. Miller, who spent a decade at Spurs between 1977 and 1987, was part of a golden era at White Hart Lane, lifting two FA Cups (1981, 1982) and the UEFA Cup (1984). The ex-centre-back remains closely connected to the club and continues to follow its evolution with pride.
Nico Paz at Como: The Rise of Serie A Young Midfield Maestro
Introduction When Nico Paz arrived at Como in the summer of 2024 from Real Madrid’s academy, many saw it as a gamble for all involved. A promising 20-year-old, Paz left La Fábrica to join a newly-promoted Serie A side whose primary objective was survival. But under the stewardship of Cesc Fàbregas, Como have given Paz the platform—and the responsibility—to become their creative engine.
Exclusive: Thomas Brdarić on Leverkusen’s New Era and Why Florian Wirtz Will Need Time to Adapt to the Premier League
Thomas Brdarić is a well-known former German footballer who played for several top clubs, including VfB Stuttgart, Hannover 96, and VfL Wolfsburg. However, he is best remembered for his five-year spell at Bayer Leverkusen, where he was part of the squad that famously reached the 2002 UEFA Champions League Final against Real Madrid. Following his playing career, Brdaric transitioned into management, coaching various clubs with success across different parts of the world.
Christian Pulisic at AC Milan: A Tactical and Performance Evolution
Introduction Christian Pulisic’s move to AC Milan in the summer of 2023 marked a crucial turning point in his career. After several inconsistent seasons at Chelsea—where injuries, managerial changes, and competition for places limited his rhythm—Pulisic arrived in Serie A seeking stability, confidence, and regular football. His time in Milan has been a rejuvenation story: a talented winger rediscovering his best form in a system that allows him to play to his strengths.
Exclusive: Former Napoli Midfielder Hails De Bruyne Signing and Rejects Italy ‘Lack of Passion’ Claims
Claudio Ferrarese, a former Italian football player, discusses the impact of Kevin De Bruyne's arrival at Napoli and the debate about the Italian national team. De Bruyne's integration at Napoli has been positive, while Ferrarese believes players still give their all for the national team. Last updated: 2025-09-29 ACF Fiorentina v SSC Napoli - Serie A by Image Photo Agency | Getty Images Claudio Ferrarese is a well-known former player in Italian football.
Gianluigi Donnarumma 2024–25: From Question Marks to Champions League Hero - Breaking The Lines
When PSG embarked on the 2024–25 campaign under head coach Luis Enrique, much attention centered on the club’s reinvention. Having moved past the star-driven era—post-Messi, Neymar, Mbappé—PSG sought tactical discipline and European glory. All eyes turned to their goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma, whose uneven performances in high stakes matches placed his reliability under scrutiny. Yet by season’s end, he had become indispensable—integral to PSG’s first-ever Champions League triumph.
Hakan Çalhanoğlu at Inter (2024/25): Tactical Analysis of a Regista at His Peak
Hakan Çalhanoğlu has once again established himself as a vital pillar of Simone Inzaghi’s Inter side, evolving from an attacking midfielder into one of Europe’s top deep-lying playmakers. His 2024/25 season was a showcase of tactical intelligence, technical quality, and strategic maturity. Below is a breakdown of his contributions based on statistical data and tactical context.
Federico Valverde: Real Madrid’s Uruguayan Machine in Midfield
Born in Montevideo, Uruguay in 1998, Federico Valverde has developed into one of the most dynamic and complete midfielders in world football. Standing at 1.82m, he brings together physical robustness, technical finesse, and tactical awareness. A product of Peñarol’s academy and polished at Real Madrid’s Castilla before breaking into the senior team, Valverde has steadily gained prominence, not just for his versatility, but for his consistency in high-pressure environments.
Breaking the Silence
In today’s fast-paced and high-pressure world of professional football, players’ mental well-being is finally receiving the attention it has long deserved. As the game has evolved, so has the recognition that peak performance isn’t just about physical strength and technical skill — it’s also about psychological resilience and mental health. In past decades, mental health in football was a taboo subject.
Lautaro Martínez: El Toro’s Evolution into Inter’s Vanguard
From the bustling streets of Bahía Blanca to the grand stages of European football, Lautaro Martínez’s journey is emblematic of resilience and relentless ambition. Nicknamed “El Toro” for his bullish tenacity, Martínez has matured into a linchpin for both Inter Milan and the Argentine national team, embodying the archetype of the modern forward. Martínez’s formative years at Racing Club laid the groundwork for his multifaceted attacking prowess.
Lamine Yamal: A Comprehensive Analysis of Football’s Next Prodigy
Lamine Yamal, at just 17 years of age, has already captured the footballing world’s attention with performances that defy his youth. A product of FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, Yamal represents a new generation of footballers: technically supreme, tactically astute, physically resilient, and mentally battle-hardened.
The Pros and Cons of Keeping VAR in the Premier League
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system was introduced in the Premier League during the 2019/20 season to assist referees in making more accurate decisions. However, its implementation has sparked continuous debate among fans, players, and managers. While some argue that VAR has improved fairness and reduced errors, others believe it has disrupted the flow of the game and diminished football’s emotional essence. This article explores the pros and cons of keeping VAR in the Premier League. 1.
The tantalizingly rapid rise of Cole Palmer at Chelsea
Cole Palmer is one of the youngest and most talented players not only in the Premier League but also in Europe. He became one of the most important players at Chelsea and has shown his qualities over the last few seasons. Last season, Palmer was one of the players that Chelsea bought under Pochettino and nobody believed that he would have the impact that he had in the team.
Giuliano Giannichedda exclusive: Mancini, Capello, Inzaghi - working with Italy's best
Giuliano Giannichedda is convinced it won't be long before Roberto Mancini returns to top-line coaching. Mancini is currently weighing up his options after leaving the Saudi Arabia job earlier this season. Advertisement Advertisement Giannichedda worked with Mancini during his career and in a chat with Tribalfootball.com, the former Udinese and Lazio midfielder says he expects him to soon return to management.
Michael Wimmer exclusive: Backing Marmoush for Man City success; Valuing Stuttgart & Austria Wien experience
Michael Wimmer is backing Omar Marmoush for great success at Manchester City. Wimmer worked with the Egypt striker at VfB Stuttgart and in a chat with Tribalfootball.com, says Marmoush has the personality and drive to succeed in England. Marmoush is just one of several big names Wimmer has coached during his career.
Exclusive: Foto Strakosha - Albania's goalkeeping legend talks Olympiacos, Stoichkov and son Thomas
Foto Strakosha is a name etched in the history of Albanian football. Born on March 29, 1965, in Memaliaj, Albania, Strakosha rose to prominence as one of the country's finest goalkeepers. His distinguished career, spanning nearly two decades, included spells with Albanian club KS Minatori and Dinamo Tirana before venturing abroad to Greece, where he made his mark with clubs like PAS Giannina, Ethnikos Piraeus, and Olympiacos.
Alessandro Tulli exclusive: Working twice with Pioli; my teammate Chiellini: Nainggolan's big heart
After learning his trade inside AS Roma's academy, former centre-forward Alessandro Tulli embarked on a 12-year career which took him to the likes of Lecce, Salernitana and Vicenza. However, speaking with Tribalfootball.com, Tulli says his most memorable time was with Triestina, where his form earned him a €650,000 move from Roma to Lecce. In his time in Serie B, Tulli worked with some of Italy's biggest identities, including Giorgio Chiellini, Stefano Pioli and Pietro Vierchowod.
Enzo Maresca's impact at Chelsea
Enzo Maresca, the promising young Italian coach, is navigating a pivotal chapter in his career at one of the most prestigious clubs, not just in the Premier League, but in world football. Last season, he excelled at Leicester City, transforming a disorganized team into a dynamic attacking force that delighted fans and delivered results.
Antonio Simoes exclusive: Benfica legend on Eusebio, a young Mourinho and beating Puskas, Di Stefano
António Simões is a name forever etched in the annals of Portuguese football. Born on December 14, 1943, in Corroios, Portugal, Simões rose to prominence as one of the most talented wingers of his generation. Renowned for his extraordinary dribbling, tactical intelligence, and unyielding determination, he became a vital part of Benfica’s golden era in the 1960s and 1970s.
Luca Bittante exclusive: Beautiful Empoli; master Giampaolo; the spark that launched Barella
As he weighs up his next move, Tribalfootball was able to catch up with Luca Bittante and look back at his successful career. Now 31, the former Italy U20 international fullback tasted Serie A football with Empoli and Cagliari, having originally come through Fiorentina's much-vaunted youth system. Advertisement Advertisement During his time in Serie A and Serie B, Luca worked with some of Italy's best coaches and played alongside many talented teammates.
Abdeslam Ouaddou exclusive: Magical Fulham; Cech v Van der Sar; surreal Rivaldo and Olympiacos
As he looks back on his career, Abdeslam Ouaddou admits competing in the Premier League was the "pinnacle". Now 46, Ouaddou established himself as a consistent centre-half at Ligue Une level. However, speaking with Tribalfootball.com, he admits his four years on the books of Fulham were a time he is particularly proud of.
What Went Wrong for Lopetegui at West Ham?
Julen Lopetegui was one of the most sought-after coaches last summer, attracting interest from teams across the Premier League and other European leagues. After much speculation and negotiation, the highly regarded Spanish manager signed with West Ham United in the Premier League. He arrived at the helm of the Hammers following successful stints at Sevilla and Wolves. What Went Wrong for Lopetegui at West Ham?
Nico Pulzetti exclusive: Pioli, Italiano and enjoying Livorno's golden era
Nico Pulzetti admits he has a special relationship with fallen former Serie A club, Livorno. The former midfielder, now 40, spent four years with a Livorno that was full of characters - including outspoken ex-president Aldo Spinelli. It was a time that Pulzetti agrees was a 'golden era' for the club, which are now rebuilding in Serie D. Advertisement Advertisement Along with Livorno, Pulzetti also spent five years with Bologna and also had time with the likes of Verona and Padova.
Gavin Rae exclusive: Cardiff's historic FA Cup run; my Dundee connection; learning from Rangers greats
Football has taken Gavin Rae around the world. From Scotland's Premiership to England's Championship - with Wales' Cardiff City - Rae also has experienced football on the other side of the globe in Australia. Formerly of Dundee, Rangers and Cardiff, Rae collected 14 caps with Scotland before hanging up the boots. The Scot has since moved into coaching - along with being also a much sought-after pundit.
Stefano Morrone exclusive: My Parma 'home', Mazzone and learning from Grosso
Stefano Morrone admits he regards Parma as his "second home". The former midfielder captained and coached the club and is delighted seeing them back in Serie A. Morrone, with over 400 appearances as a pro player in Italy, also played for Cosenza, Empoli, Venezia, Palermo, Livorno and Latina, while his coaching career, which began with Parma, has taken him to Brescia, Sassuolo and also Sion in Switzerland.
Adrian Ricchiuti exclusive: Catania in Serie A; learning from Mihajlovic and Simeone
Adrian Ricchiuti, a name synonymous with passion and skill, left an indelible mark on Italian football as a dynamic attacking midfielder. Born in Argentina, he combined South American flair with European tactical discipline, representing clubs like Rimini, Genoa, Livorno, and Catania during his successful career spanning over two decades. Advertisement Advertisement Now a coach, Ricchiuti continues to inspire the football world.
Chris Ramsey exclusive: Spurs, QPR & Brighton's FA Cup final - pride in Walker success
Chris Ramsey is a highly respected figure in football, celebrated for his extensive contributions as both a player and coach. A former professional footballer, Ramsey played as a defender for clubs including Brighton & Hove Albion and Swindon Town during a career spanning the 1970s and 1980s. After retiring from playing, he transitioned seamlessly into coaching, leaving a significant mark at various levels of the game.
Gonzalo De Los Santos exclusive: Glory with Valencia; playing with Simeone; excited about Uruguay
Gonzalo De Los Santos, a name synonymous with grit, leadership, and footballing excellence, carved out an illustrious career across South America and Europe. From donning the iconic jerseys of Peñarol and Valencia to competing at the highest level with Málaga and Atlético Madrid, the Uruguayan defensive midfielder made his mark on every pitch he stepped on. Known for his robust style, tactical intelligence, and passion for the sport, he continues to inspire both fans and aspiring footballers.
Marco Negri exclusive: Enjoying Scots' Serie A impact; my nickname for Gazza and Laudrup; recalling teammate Allegri
Rangers hero Marco Negri admits he's enjoying the impact Scottish players are having on Serie A this season. Lewis Ferguson is now back fully fit with Bologna, while Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour have helped Antonio Conte guide Napoli to the top of the Serie A table. For Negri, their impact comes as no surprise, as he discussed the flood of Scottish talent now performing in Serie A.
EXCLUSIVE: Ex-Liverpool goalkeeping coach on Klopp's legacy and working in Saudi Arabia
Now with Al Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, John Achterberg (53) brought the curtain down on over 15 years with Liverpool this past summer as he followed former manager Jurgen Klopp out of Anfield. A highly respected figure inside the game, Achterberg acted as goalkeeper coach through several levels at Liverpool before his senior appointment in 2011.
EXCLUSIVE: Ex-Liverpool coach on Klopp's legacy and pride for Kelleher
Now with Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, John Achterberg brought the curtain down on over 15 years with Liverpool this past summer as he followed former manager Jurgen Klopp out of Anfield. A highly respected figure inside the game, Achterberg acted as goalkeeper coach through several levels at Liverpool before his senior appointment in 2011.
EXCLUSIVE: Ex-Liverpool coach on Klopp's impact and pride for Kelleher
Now with Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia, John Achterberg brought the curtain down on over 15 years with Liverpool this past summer as he followed former manager Jurgen Klopp out of Anfield. A highly respected figure inside the game, Achterberg acted as goalkeeper coach through several levels at Liverpool before his senior appointment in 2011.
Nils-Eric Johansson exclusive: Andy Cole tougher than Elber; Cup glory with Blackburn; seeing Isak come through at AIK
A legend of AIK in Sweden, Nils-Eric Johansson also made an impact with Blackburn Rovers and Leicester City during his career. The former defender's committed approach always endeared him to fans wherever he played - which included coming through the youth system at Bayern Munich. Advertisement Advertisement Now retired and coaching inside AIK's academy, Johansson spoke with Tribalfootball.com last week about his career and some of the young Swedish players currently making their way in Europe.
Terry Phelan exclusive: Winning FA Cup; choosing Man City over Man Utd, Barcelona; hopes for Indian football
In terms of the FA Cup, Terry Phelan is an immortal. The former Republic of Ireland international was part of the famous 1988 Wimbledon team that shocked Liverpool at the old Wembley. But beyond the Crazy Gang and Cup glory, Phelan enjoyed a successful playing career, turning out for major clubs Chelsea, Manchester City and Leeds United.
EXCLUSIVE: Oddo talks nearly joining Barcelona and Serie A experience
In a career that included playing for some of the giants of the game, Massimo Oddo won the lot - collecting Serie A, Champions League and World Cup winner's medals. The former AC Milan, Lazio and Bayern Munich fullback has now taken that experience into the coaching arena, where he has already held positions with Pescara, Udinese, and Crotone.
El exjugador y entrenador italiano Massimo Oddo habla sobre su frustrado fichaje por el Barcelona y la actualidad de la Serie A y Champions
En una carrera en la que jugó en algunos de los gigantes del fútbol, Massimo Oddo (48) lo ganó todo como jugador: campeón de la Serie A, de la Liga de Campeones y de la Copa Mundial. Ahora espera una nueva oportunidad como entrenador. El exlateral del AC Milan, el Lazio y el Bayern de Múnich ha trasladado esa experiencia al terreno de los entrenadores, donde ya ha ocupado cargos en el Pescara, el Udinese y el Crotone.
EXCLUSIVE: Oddo talks nearly joining Barcelona and Serie A experience
In a career that included playing for some of the giants of the game, Massimo Oddo won the lot - collecting Serie A, Champions League and World Cup winner's medals. The former AC Milan, Lazio and Bayern Munich fullback has now taken that experience into the coaching arena, where he has already held positions with Pescara, Udinese, and Crotone.
Massimo Oddo exclusive: Missing Barcelona move; stunned by Roma's De Rossi sacking; winning the lot
In a career which included playing for some of the giants of the game, Massimo Oddo won the lot - collecting Serie A, Champions League and World Cup winner's medals. The former AC Milan, Lazio and Bayern Munich fullback has now taken that experience into the coaching arena, where he has already held positions with Pescara, Udinese, and Crotone.
Ryan Bennett exclusive: How Jota, Neves & Nunes transformed Wolves; working for Rodgers at Leicester
Five years with Norwich City. Three years with Wolves. Ryan Bennett experienced promotion to the Premier League with both clubs during his career. Now 34, Bennett was with Cambridge United last season before coming off contract over the summer. The defender spoke with Tribalfootball.com this week about his career, the clubs he played for and the personalities he's mixed with along the way. Advertisement Advertisement Norwich, Wolves, Leicester...
EXCLUSIVE: Begovic on Everton return and the world's best goalkeepers
A year on after leaving Everton, Asmir Begovic agreed to return to Merseyside after enjoying regular football in the Championship with QPR. The former Chelsea, Bournemouth and Milan goalkeeper signed for the Toffees as support for Jordan Pickford and Joao Virginia after talks with manager Sean Dyche.
Thomas Brdaric exclusive: Shadowing Xabi at Bayer Leverkusen; advice for Wirtz; returning to Vllaznia
With the likes of Bayer Leverkusen and Hannover, Thomas Brdaric became known as one of the great characters of the Bundesliga - and the German national team. Known for his goalscoring, Brdaric was a firm favourite for local fans over his 15 years as a senior pro. It was a playing career which saw him make Germany's 2004 Euros squad and become a €1m signing for Hannover.
Leonardo Semplici exclusive: Glory with SPAL; tempted by Saudi; backing Conte's Napoli
Leonardo Semplici will forever be tied to SPAL after leading the club from Serie C to Serie A in just three years. Before taking charge of SPAL, the former Lucchese and Grosseto defender had gained reputation as a promotion specialist achieving success with Sangimignano and Figline in the lower leagues.
Thomas Bradaric exclusive: Shadowing Xabi at Bayer Leverkusen; advice for Wirtz; returning to Vllaznia
With the likes of Bayer Leverkusen and Hannover, Thomas Bradaric became known as one of the great characters of the Bundesliga - and the German national team. Known for his goalscoring - and for being outspoken - Bradaric was a firm favourite for local fans over his 15 years as a senior pro. It was a playing career which saw him make Germany's 2004 Euros squad and become a €1m signing for Hannover.
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