The King of Highbury: Welcome Back to N5

On Wednesday 31st March, a certain Thierry Henry will return to face his former side Arsenal, in one of the biggest and most intriguing Champions League ties in recent years. Henry, arguable Arsenal’s greatest ever player, an accolade he's competing for against the likes of Charlie George, Tony Adams, Ian Wright, Dennis Bergkamp and many more to achieve that title, will return to face boss Arsene Wenger for the first time since his departure in 2007.



Thierry Henry, a former club captain, was everyone’s favourite player and gained the respect of every football fan in Europe.

In his time at Arsenal, his achievements are as follows:

• FA Premier League 2001/02, 2003/04
• FA Cup 2002, 2003, 2005
• FA Community Shield 2002, 2004
• PFA Player of the Year 2002/03, 2003/04
• FWA Player of the Year 2002/03, 2003/04, 2005/06
• Premier League Top Goal scorer 2001/02, 2003/04, 2004/05, 2005/06
• English Football Hall of Fame 2008
• FIFA World Player of the Year Runner-up 2003, 2004

With all these awards, the French striker biggest accomplishment was breaking Ian Wright’s goal scoring record, finding the net 226 times in 380 games, not to mention 92 assists in his 8 years at the club. Along with the likes of Dennis Bergkamp, Robert Pires and Freddie Ljungberg, he was the focal point which helped the Gunners go 49 games unbeaten in the 2003/04 season. The Frenchman joined from Juventus in August 1999 for a fee of £10million, and after taken his time to settle at the club became undoubtedly the best player to grace these shores.



Wednesday will be an emotional return for Henry, just as Beckham’s return to Old Trafford was last month, within a big game with a range of subplots. Henry has been in good form lately, and was quoted as saying he never wants to play against Arsenal, but after being rested this weekend against Mallorca, he will probably start. It remains to be seen whether the striker will be the key man and make the same impact on games as he use to, even more so with the likes of Messi and Xavi on show, he will undeniably be apprehensive and emotions could get the best for him, which will please all Arsenal fans.



The spectacle of Arsenal-Barcelona game has somewhat overshadowed the return of Henry, as so many people are looking forward to seeing this “pure football”. Arsenal will be underdogs and Barca will be clear favourites. Henry will return and Cesc will meet his makers. It will be a brilliant match and I cannot wait.

Arsenal vs Barcelona. Wenger vs Guardiola. Messi vs Fabregas. Who do you think will come out on top?

Thierry Henry: Arsenal Legend

Chelsea: Still in the Title Race

With only from 14 points from the last 8 games, where 24 points were on offer, Chelsea lost the top spot from Manchester United and last weekend dropped out of the top 2 for the first time all season, but with Chelsea's 5-0 drubbing of Portsmouth last night, it seems Carlo Ancelotti's side have regained some kind of form in the run in for the title.

Here's the factors for why people believe Chelsea could pip Man Utd and Arsenal to the title.



Mental Strength

Chelsea have had all sorts of issues this season; On the field the likes of Jose Bosingwa, Branislav Ivanovic, Michael Essien and Ashley Cole all picked up medium to long term injuries, along with Cravalho and Joe Cole, who have recently recovered to add to the 1st team options. While off the field the scandal of John Terry saw him lose the England captaincy, while left back Ashley Cole's marriage fell apart in the public spotlight. However one thing we have learned about the West London side is that they extraordinary mental strength whereby they have the ability to churn out results time and time again, like a machine if you will, they may not be attractive, but its effective.

The Drogba Factor

Just like Rooney for Manchester United, Fabregas for Arsenal, Didier Drogba is a man who can change games. 24 goal in 26 games, with 7 assist, speaks for itself. Read more here.


Match Winners

Throughout the Chelsea team, there are indeed key players and match winners throughout. The likes of John Terry is a vital cog in the side, leading and organizing the team. Didier Drogba, as mentioned above, and Frank Lampard who has been a lot more solid in central midfield, although not as attacking as previous seasons, allowing the attacking mantel has been taken up by one of the star performers this season; Florent Malouda. The Frenchman has 11 goals, with 6 assist so far this season. With the loss of Essien, John Obi Mikel has done a good job considering the shoes he's had to fill, along with German Michael Ballack.


Desire and Hunger

With Chelsea seemingly having the "tougher" run in towards the end of the season, it seems that with it still in their own hands, playing the likes of Manchester United and Tottenham, it remains a seriously possibility Chelsea can win their 3rd Premier League Title. Should the Blues fail to achieve that aim, then they still have the prospect of a 6th FA Cup. However the growing pressure on Anclotti, from boss Roman Abramovich is undoubtedly going to be the underlying factor in the teams success this season, even begging the question will the Italian be in charge at the start of next season?

Do you think Chelsea can win the Premiership? Do you think Carlo Ancelotti will be at the club next season? Click Follow on the right hand side, sign up and leave a comment

Manchester United: Title Favourites?

Manchester United, arguably Britain’s most loved, and at the same time revered, football team; who currently sit atop of the Premier League and are billed as the favourites to lift the title for a record 4th time in a row, as well as United’s 19th league title, which will make them the most successful club in English history.

Here’s why I feel so many people believe United are favourites

Players standing up and being counted

With the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, sorry to bring up old news but such a great player which took Man Utd to the Champions League title cannot be ignored, many thought the Red Devils would surrender their title without such a whimper, with to the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool waiting to pounce. How those people were wrong. Many of the so called “fringe players”, or unappreciated squad player finally stood up and helped Wayne Rooney fill the shoes of the former World Player of the Year. Antonio Valencia, whose form someone took a slump in the middle of the season, stepped up to the plate and put it some very good performances at the start of his United career, and more recently in the later stages of the Champions League, whereby the Columbian collected 7 assists, many of them finding the head of striker Rooney.

Underrated Midfielder Darren Fletcher has received many plaudits in this season, mainly for his excellent work rate and stamina. The Scotsman once branded “Fergie’s Son” just because he was in the squad has kept the likes of Carrick, Anderson and up and coming midfielder Darron Gibson on the bench, and himself becoming one of the most important clogs in United machine.

Experience

In Basketball, teams have the “6th man” who comes off the bench and changes the game, Man United 6th man is that of experience. The balance between youth and experience at Manchester United is just right, with players such as Paul Scholes (35yrs old), Gary Neville (35yrs old), and the evergreen and most decorated player in Premiership history, Ryan Giggs (36yrs old) all still proving valuable assets on and off the field.

The Back Five

Although not as strong as they were in previous season, with Nemanja Vidic having injury problems, along with off the field speculation regarding a summer transfer to Real Madrid, and England Captain Rio Ferdinand having back problems and disciplinary problems, the likes of Wes Brown and Johnny Evans have stood up to be counted when need (check the 3-1 win over Arsenal). At right back Gary Neville has been sloppy sometimes, but Rafael Da Silva has performed admirably, while that man again Wes Brown has filled in when and where needed. With Hargreaves and utility man John O’Shea spending most of the season injured, it’s clear that the key man defensively is that of the solid and arguably best left back in the world, Patrice Evra. The full back leads by experience, gives his all for the team, and is blessed with having all the qualities to be a top class player, and a future United captain.

Rooney factor

26 league goals in 29 appearances, 33 in all competitions. What more to say? Read my post here, but he has been a MAJOR factor for United.

Finally Sir Alex Ferguson, who has been the Manchester United manager for 24 years, has done and seen it all, and his experience is unlike any other. Time will only tell when he is content with winning and calls it a day, however for now, he wants to reach title number 19.

Do you think Manchester United can win the title? Do you agree with this article? or Do you believe another team will win the title? Click follow, sign up and then leave your comment

A Look Around Europe

As we enter the final third of the football season, its clear that there are many teams still in the hunt for their respective domestic league honours. Players will be willing to give there all in order to attain a spot on the plane to South Africa.

This post is a look at the title races going on in and around Europe, and the key players involved.

The Premiership

First up is the English Premier League, whereby as things stand right now, its a three horse race for the title, between Arsenal, Chelsea and reigning champions Manchester United. Only four points separate the top 3 and competition is fierce. With Chelsea's exit from the Champions League, they have less games to concentrate on, however they still have the prospect of a double this season. With 7 games remaining, all managers believe it will go down to the wire, and I wholeheartedly agree.

Manchester United - Current Position: 1st - Key Man: Wayne Rooney

Sir Alex Ferguson's side have to still face Chelsea, Tottenham and rivals Manchester City in the run in, but with one of the deadliest strikers in the World at the moment; Wayne Rooney, he could lead the Red Devils to a record 19th League title. All eyes will be on the Englishman.

Arsenal - Current Position: 2nd - Key Man: Cesc Fabregas

The team from North London were written off at the start off the season, mainly due the sales of Emmanuel Adebayor and Kolo Toure, however boss Arsene Wenger has instilled belief and courage throughout the side, which gives them as good an opportunity as any other to pick up some silverware. All eyes will be on star midfielder, and club captain, Cesc Fabregas who has 18 goals in 33 games with 15 assists.

Chelsea - Current Position: 3rd - Key Man: Didier Drogba

Carlo Ancelotti's side have struggled in March however they are still very much in the race for the title, with a game in hand, as well as no more tough Champions League matches, that may be a blessing in disguise. Striker Didier Drogba is definately one of the most feared strikers and can drag the blues to the title, with the help of the in form Florent Malouda, the underrated John Mikel Obi and the ever dependent Frank Lampard.

Who do you think will win the title?

La Liga

Next up is La Liga, where the Spanish teams have spent a lot of money this season, no more so than Real Madrid, who forked out a whopping €250million. Its a two horse race at the top, with superclubs Barcelona and Real Madrid joint at the top, leading 3rd place Valencia by 18 points. Only 11 games to go, all eyes on 11th April for "El Classico" at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Real Madrid - Current Position: 1st - Key Man: Gonzalo Higuain

Suprised I didn't say Cristiano Ronaldo? Well check out the Higiuan post and you'll understand why! Don't get me wrong CR9 will be a vital factor, but Higuain has been on fire this season. Real, out of the Champions League, have the advantage with just 11 remaining league fixtures for them to solely concentrate on. The importance of Sergio Ramos, the playmaking skills of Xabi Alonso and the magic of Ronaldo have sured up Real's title chances.

FC Barcelona - Current Position: 2nd - Key Man: Lionel Messi

Barcelona have just as good a chance to win the La Liga crown, and retain the Champions League, however they face a tricky task of facing English side Arsenal, and must go to Real Madrid's stomping ground and come away victorious. Striker Zlatan Ibrahomovic has been rather hit and miss this season, but scored a few important goals, along with the young winger Pedro chiping in with 7, Thierry Henry with 3, but the main man and undoubted superstar is Argentine forward Messi. Back to back hat tricks in the League against Valencia and Real Zaragoza, plus 2 against Stuttgart in the Champions League, has led to Barca President, Joan Laporta calling him "the best player in history". Can he take Barca to the double?

Who do you think will win the title?

Serie A

One of the most boring leagues in Europe? Overrated? Tactical and defensive? Some of the many statements used to describe the Serie A in the last few season, however thanks to a resurgance at AC Milan and with Claudio Ranieri's Roma, player contract disputes, the terrible form of Diego and Juventus, plus the added relegation fears of SS Lazio all have mixed up the league and made it very very interesting. Oh yeah, lets not forget about that "bloke" Mourinho... After blowing a 7 point league, Inter are only top of the league by one point, from AC Milan and 4 points from AS Roma, with 8 games to go.

Inter Milan - Current Position: 1st - Key Man: Wesley Sneijder

The man who pulled the strings against Chelsea and cause them all sorts of problems, is fastly becoming the key man at the Inter side of the San Siro, along with striker Diego Milito. However in the past month it seems Mourinho's side focus on the Champions League has led them to drop valuable points and lose their grip on the Scudetto. Mourinho's side need to fix up and not look to the Champions League Quarter-Final against CSKA and concentrate on getting Eto'o, Stankovic and Pandev to maintain their domestic dominance.

AC Milan - Current Position: 2nd - Key Man: Ronaldinho

After a really poor start to thier Serie A challenge, Ronaldinho and co are mounting a serious offensive for the title, however they have been a big blow losing both David Beckham and Alessandro Nesta to injury. But with the returning Alexandre Pato, maybe AC could actually knock Inter off of thier throne.

AS Roma - Current Position: 3rd - Key Man: Luca Toni

What is there to say about the "tinkerman" Claudio Ranieri? He was ousted from Chelsea and kicked out of Juventus and now he has manage a mini miracle at Roma. He has led to the Romans being just 4 points from Inter and at the very least a certainty to achieve a Champions League spot, and a return, next season. January signing Luca Toni has scored 4 goals in 7 matches although he has struggled to settle in thanks to a knee injury, but he is finding his feet back in Italian football. With goalie Julio Sergio performing well, John Arne Riise finding a new found love for football and Talisman Francesco Totti, they could be the dark horses.

There the "Big Leagues" but here is quick insite to the other leagues around Europe. In Holland: with 6 games remaining, former England Manger Steve McClaren's FC Twente lead former Champions League winners AFC Ajax by 4 points, with PSV 1 point behind them and the McClaren's side are in pole position to win the Eredivisie after finishing second last season.

In France, its clear that this lead is without doubt the most exciting in Europe, with as many a six teams battling it out for the Ligue 1 title. With 10 games left, Girondins de Bordeaux and suprise package Montpellier are joint top with 56 points, Auxerre are 1 point behing with 55, Marsielle have 53, while Lille and Lyon sit 5th and 6th respectively with 51 points. Expect a very exciting finish to the season, with the added spice of Lyon facing Boredeaux in the Champions League Semi-Final aswell. All to play for...

Thats my comprehensive round up of the Big Five leagues in Europe and a look at the Key Men involved. For more search Real Talk Football in google and get the Twitter or Facebook Page.

Remember to comment and let me know who you think will collect silverware this season.

Who is the Greatest Free Kick Taker Ever?

In recent weeks I have witnessed a few arguments regarding who is indeed the best free kick taker in the world. This months new poll will give you the power to decide. Here's a few of the candidates:

Number 1 - Cristiano Ronaldo - No.9

Clubs: Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid
Why: Who doesn't know about the flamboyant winger from Portugal? In the early days, they use to fly over the bar... Now they fly in the back of the net! Technique based on that of Juninho Pernambucano's, its clear Ronaldo still stuns fans with his excellent swerving dipping free kicks. If he gets it right, 9 times out of 10, it works.

Number 2: Roberto Carlos - No.3

Clubs: Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Fenerbache
Why: The man with one of the most powerful left foots in football. Known for "that freekick" against France in 1997, Carlos has scored some great free kicks based on pure power, so much so he cannot be exempt from the list.

Number 3: Andrea Pirlo - No.20

Clubs: Brescia, Inter Milan, Reggina, AC Milan
Why: Not renowned for his goal scoring ability, the creative defensive midfield playmaker has established himself as one of the best set piece takers in the World. However ever opposition player takes a deep breath once the Italian maestro steps up to the plate. Pirlo has excellent accuracy and generates a lot of power and swerve on the ball causing all sorts of problems for goalkeepers.

Number 4: Juninho Pernambucano - No.8

Clubs: Sport Recife, Vasco da Gama, Lyon, Al-Gharafa
Why: In my opinion the best freekick taker in the history of the game. The Brazilian has the best free kicks I've ever seen. Period. He can shot from any angle, while generating excellent power, finesse and curl on the ball. The attacking midfielder has scored stunners against the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid and even at International level. Juninho hits the ball directly in the center and generates the "swerve" which the likes of Ronaldo and Drogba use today and gave goalkeepers nightmares. Let the video do the talking!

Here is the URL for the best video available, however these two video's definately do the star justice:

Number 5: David Beckham - No.23

Clubs: Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan
Why: Why? a silly question really! The former England captain has played at the highest level all throughout his career, and scored a number of excellent goals. The midfielders free kicks are known for his winding up motion and generation amazing curl and accuracy. Whether it be in Italy, England, Spain or even America, Beckham delivers.

Let me know who you think is the greatest. Also let me know if you agree with the list by voting on the poll on the right hand side

Gonzalo Higuain: The Main Man in Madrid

Currently Real Madrid boast some of the biggest Football names in the World, including the likes of players such as Kaka, Karim Benzema, Sergio Ramos, club captain Raul, Xabi Alonso and of course the unforgettable Cristiano Ronaldo, aptly named the "Galactico's". However despite these Superstars, one playing has seemingly slipped under the radar, despite in my opinion being one the brightest and best players in Europe, Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain.

Some would say, how could a Real Madrid player slip under the radar? or be one of the brightest players in Europe and not be noticed? Well simple, because of the big money singings named above!

Higuain joined Real Madrid in 2006, for a fee of just €13 million, from Argentine Primera Division side River Plate, billed as having a "enormous future" and being "destined for stardom" by than manager (and Argentina legend) Daniel Passarella. He has been knicknamed in and around Spain as "El Pipita", in honour of his footballing Father, Jorge Higuain.

Here's all you need to know:

Name: Gonzalo Higuain
DOB: 22/12/1987 Age: 22
Height: 6ft
Nationality: Argentine
Position: Striker
Previous Clubs: River Plate Current Club: Real Madrid
Shirt Number: 20

In Europe, the names of Torres, Messi, Rooney, Drogba and fellow team mate Ronaldo all come up in arguments when vying for the accolade of "Best Striker in the World". Although Higuain may not be amongst those ranks right now, he looks as if he has all the attributes to point him in the right direction, and put him amongst the mix in the near future.

Playing amongst some of the biggest names in World Football, it's clear that despite the undoubted pressure cooker that is; playing every week at the Santiago Bernabeu, he boasts a commendable record of 54 goals, in 98 appearances, along with an addition 19 assists. A record that is as good as any other in Europe, and if continued, can put him amongst the best to wear the White shirt of Real, along with two La Liga titles to boot.

The Argentine established himself as the focal point of the Real attack, heading up the 4-2-3-1 formation, keeping the likes of Karim Benzema and Real Madrid icon Raul out of the side. He has displayed a knack for beating defenders combined with an injection of pace in the final third. The 22 year old poses excellent dribbling skills, as good as any other attacker, and of course an eye for goal. Tied with great awareness in and around the 18 yard area, he established himself in the hearts of Madrid fans at the end of his 1st season in Spain; scoring a vital goal against Espanyol, leading Real to take the La Liga crown from bitter rivals Barcelona.

Currently he has guided Real Madrid to the top of La Liga, and is battling it out with the likes of Valencia's David Villa and the 2009 World Player of the Year; FC Barcelona's Lionel Messi, in the race for the Pichichi (Spain's Golden Boot Award). He has score 16 goals in in just 19 appearances, establishing himself as the number one striker at the club, but question were raised about his performances away from La Liga, especially in the the Champions League whereby his displays and ability at this level have indeed been called into question, whereby the Striker has brushed off the criticism. It now seems it will be sooner rather than later before he adapts to Europe's top club competition, scoring important goals. Whatever the case, it seems that whoever's in charge at the Bernabeu in the future, and what may come from now on, it's clear Higuain is a true Madridista now, and for years to come.

Liverpool's Problem's

As Liverpool prepare for Europa League duty and take on Lille OSC on March 11th, manager Rafael Benitez is undoubtedly under pressure to get his side to perform. Last season's Premiership runners-up are seemingly falling away in the race for fourth place with Monday's defeat to Wigan, and the Europa League is probably the only real bit of success the club may find this season.

As I highlighted earlier this season, Liverpool need to either buck up their ideas or look at investing in new players, however with the transfer window shut, they can completely forget about that, and Benitez is going to have to rely on "good old fashion" teamwork.

Benitez has recently been quoted claiming off the field problems, have been affecting matters on the field... Now lets be honest, Portsmouth went into administration a few weeks ago and last weekend they made it into the FA Cup Semi-final. Benitez needs to keep his players focused, fit and commited to the cause. Fair enough the likes of Aurelio (consistanly injured) and Skrtel are now possibly out for the rest of the season, but with quality of the returning players, there are no more excuses for the Spaniard.

So what to do?

The only real positives is that Liverpool have their injured players returning for the final 3rd of the season. Glen Johnson, who is undoubtedly England's best right back, has returned after 2 months out with a knee injury, Yossi Benayoun also back in the squad and most importantly Fernando Torres is returning to full fitness and will start scoring again.

But for Rafa to really solve the problems and get Liverpool playing again, he has to stop playing this theory of playing Javier Macherano in defence, and put him in midfield!!! PLEASE!! how can you expect Gerrard to regain any kind of form just relying on Lucas to hold the midfield? Fair enough Johnson was out injured, but im sure Benitez could possibly re-train another player to play at right back (just like when he re-trained Alvaro Arbeloa to left back when he was originally a right back). Also give Aquilani a run in the team! it shocks me that week after week he sits on the bench as Rafa doesn't want to "rush the Italian back" from injury. Also why keep Ryan Babel around, if he isnt going to be used? Again there must be some underlying disciplinary or attitude issue, if the Dutch winger is still not being given a chance. Finally Benitez should revert to the 4-3-2-1/4-5-1 formation which saw Kuyt, Gerrard and Torres link up so well last season, causing teams all sorts of issue's with the interchangable movement.

Time will only tell if Liverpool can salvage anything from the season, but if we look at their remaining fixtures, Benitez's side can still influence the title race and still collect some silverwear by the end of the season.

Liverpool's final fixtures

11/3 Lille

15/3 Portsmouth

18/3 Lille

21/3 Man United

28/3 Sunderland

3/4 Birmingham

11/4 Fulham

19/4 West Ham

24/4 Burnley

1/5 Chelsea

9/5 Hull

Can Benitez or Liverpool save anything from the season? Can Liverpool win the Europa League? Do you think Benitez will be sacked in the summer? Leave a comment below or email us at realtalkfootballblog@hotmail.co.uk

The Best Young Players in the World: No. 1

We finish out countdown of the best young players and prospects in the World by naming our number 1. The young sensation who plays his football in Belgium.


Here's all you need to know:

Name: Romelu Lukaku
DOB: 13/04/1993 Age: 16
Height: 6ft 3in
Nationality: Belgian
Position: Striker
Previous Clubs: FC Brussels Current Club: RSC Anderlecht
Shirt Number: 36

The top two players on the list descend from Congolese backgrounds, and were born in neighbouring countries, unlike Kakuta, Romelu Lukaku was born in Antwerp, Belgium. Lukaku has caught the eye of near enough every big club in Europe and has been discussed in many different footballing circles. At only 16 years of age, he is playing professionally for the best team in Belgium, and has helped them go 12 points clear in the Belgian First Division. The youngster has a phenomenal goals to game ratio, for a player of his age, playing 24 times, scoring 13 goals. I also read he scored 121 times in 80 games at youth level which is amazing.

Lukaku has made many appearances in Europe, featuring against the likes of Ajax, Lyon and Athletic Bilbao, and most importantly gaining significant praise from all opposing managers. Club captain club captain Olivier Deschacht said after the Ajax game:

“You saw it for yourself; he was fantastic. He normally distinguishes himself with his speed, but tonight he struck twice with his head.”

“I hope he stays with us for another two or three years, so he can play a lot and build up his rhythm, and after that I think he could go to somewhere like England and play at the very highest level. I believe he’s that good.”

The young striker, has been compared to Chelsea's star striker Didier Drogba and can already boast an International cap to his name, after making his International debut against Croatia last week. Blessed with strength, power, aerial ability and clearly an eye for goal, the youngster has of course been tipped for big things and will undoubtedly become a star in years to come.

There have been similar scout reports on goal.com, soccerlens, New Football pools and finally the News of the World. Let me know what you think and if you agree with the list, but for now you can see more videos of the star below (the second is my personal favourite):

Brought to you by Real Talk Football

The Best Young Players in the World: No. 2

Number 2 on our list, counting down 5 best young players in the World is Chelsea's controversial signing Gael Kakuta.

Here's all you need to know:

Name: Gael Kakuta
DOB: 21/06/1991 Age: 18
Height: 5ft 7in
Nationality: French
Position: Attacking Midfield/Left Midfield
Previous Clubs: RC Lens Current Club: Chelsea
Shirt Number: 44

Gael Kakuta is seen as one of the brightest talents in Europe, let alone French and his transfer to English side Chelsea, caused them all sorts of headaches. His controversial move to Chelsea came because RC Lens claimed the 18 year old had breached his contract in signing with the two time Premiership champions. The FIFA Dispute Resolution Chamber found in favour of the French side and subsequently fined Kakuta €738,000 and banned him for 4 months. Chelsea were fined €130,000 payable to Lens and banned for two transfer windows. However the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned the decision after Chelsea's appeal. Anyways enough of the legal talk, lets look at what the 18 year old has to offer.

Kakuta has an excellent first touch, strength and creativity. But most impressively is the attackers dribbling technique that is similar to that of Ronaldinho's, short, fast and powerful. The French youth International has represented his nation at Under 17, 18 and 19 level, and is fully expected to go onto represent France at the highest level.

Surely Chelsea wouln't go through all this trouble, if the youngster wasnt truely worth it. Lets just wait and see...

The Best Young Players in the World: No. 3

Continuing the countdown of the best young players in the world, number 3: Fiorentina's Stevan Jovetic.

Here's all you need to know:

Name: Stevan Jovetic
DOB: 02/11/1989 Age: 20
Height: 6ft
Nationality: Montenegrin
Position: Attacking Midfield/Forward
Previous Clubs: Partizan Belgrade Current Club: Fiorentina
Shirt Number: 8

Nicknamed the "Montenegrin Messi" the youngster rose to fame after excellent displays in Serie A, which helped the Italian side Fiorentina claim a Champions League position. The 20 year old became recognized oversea's thanks to his performances in Europe's top club competition. Despite only making 3 appearances, he scored 2 goals in the game against Liverpool, which aided in knocking out the English side.

The youngster joined Fiorentina from Serbian football club Partizan Belgrade, in a deal worth £7.3million. He plays as a winger and is known for his excellent movement, dribbling ability and close control. He has represented his national side Montenegro on 13 occasions, scoring 6 times and played in the World Cup 2010 qualifying campaign. Jovetic is seemingly settled in Italy and will probably be there for years to come, playing alonside the likes of Alberto Gilardino and Adrian Mutu, helping the Viola's push for Champions League. Look out for more to come.

The Best Young Players in the World: No. 4

We continue our look at the best young players in the world, and at number 4 is Racing Santander's Galactico bound attacking midfielder Sergio Canales.

Here's all you need to know:

Name: Sergio Canales
DOB: 16/02/1991 Age: 19
Height: 5ft 9in
Nationality: Spanish
Position: Attacking Midfield
Previous Clubs: Racing Santander Current Club: Real Madrid (on loan to Racing)
Shirt Number: 27

Racing Santander's number 27 has produced some magical displays so far this season and has caught the eye of all the big clubs in Europe. Whereby the video below clearly displays this:



On February 12th, Real Madrid confirmed the signing of the youngster for a fee believed to be around €4.5million. He has played 21 times for Racing and scored 6 goals, which isn't bad considering the quality of La Liga (and the quality of his goals). A player with a great left foot, blessed with excellent vision and creativity, he has already been touted as the new Guti, but without the "supreme daftness!". Having represented Spain at all the junior levels, expect big things from the youngster, at both club and international level.

Do you feel the youngster will be a success? Leave a comment below or email Real Talk Football @ realtalkfootballblog@hotmail.co.uk or follow Real Talk on Twitter

The Best Young Players in the World: No. 5

Over the next 5 days, I'll highlight the players I feel are the future stars of football. I highlighted a player to watch out for a few months ago; Ghana's Dominic Adiyiah. He is without a doubt a player who will cause a big impact in future years.

First though, I am going to reveal player number 5 on the list: AFC Ajax's Christian Eriksen.

Here's all you need to know:

Name: Christian Eriksen
DOB: 14/02/1992 Age: 18
Height: 5ft 9in
Nationality: Danish
Position: Attacking Midfield/Defensive Midfield
Previous Clubs: Odense Boldklub Current Club: Ajax
Shirt Number: 51

He is one of the brightest stars in Dutch football and rising through the ranks, catching the attention of the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United. He has also just recently been called up the Denmark national squad and is expected to make his international debut against Austria. The 18year old has excellent passing ability, technique and has shown excellent shooting from distance. A move to Europe may be abit too premature but expect him to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Rafael Van Der Vaart and Wesley Sneijder. Watch this space....

Check the video of him below, scoring goals for fun. Shirt number 6