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“Only true Champions come out and show their worth after defeat- and I expect us to do that”, claimed Sir Alex Ferguson after the defeat against Arsenal in the second time in the league in 2006.
The aftermath of Manchester United after the Munich Air Disaster; or the second coming of Kim Clijsters, winning the Australian Open immediately coming back from retirement; or Lionel Messi‘s tale of a kid with growth hormone deficiency to one of the best footballers in the world; everyone deserves a second-chance.
Here is a look at the XI who ought to make a comeback.
Proving that he is one of the best goalkeepers at a very young age, Casillas has got to do it all over again. Though Casillas continues to captain Spain and start in the first team, he has apparently lost his place at his boyhood club, Real Madrid.
Frustrating few months as a result of frequent injuries last year saw him being dropped.
With still a few years left to play, the 32-year old’s road to recovery lies in his hands. Everybody would want the legend to finish on a high.
2. Carles Puyol
Known for his positional sense and ruggedness as a defender, Puyol is slowly running out of steam. This inspirational Barcelona captain has been the backbone of Barcelona and Spain’s defence for a decade. With another knee injury keeping him out till now, doubts over Puyol’s fitness keep increasing.
Although left piqued and frustrated, Puyol will still be the back-bone of Barca’s defence for another season or two. As another season begins, this 35-year old still has a lot to prove.
3. Thomas Vermaelen
Vermaelen kicked off his Arsenal career as a crowd favourite, but now he is almost forgotten. Vermaelen started as a goal-scoring defender at his early Arsenal days apart from providing stability at the back. The Verminator’s sudden bust in form resulted in him losing his place in the starting XI.
With Arsenal having two diligent center-backs, the 27-year old Belgian has to fight his way back into the squad to relive his early days at the Emirates.
4. Fabio Coentrao
One who can race forward with pace and a solid defender at the back, Coentrao has all the qualities of a modern left-back. Though the Portuguese international was impressive when he joined Real Madrid, he eventually lost his place to Marcelo.
With a late bid from Manchester United falling apart on the dying minutes of the transfer window, Coentrao’s chances of earning his place in the starting XI are low.
The 25-year old should look to get appropriate game time, making himself ready for the World Cup.
5. Maicon Sisenando
With a unique and unorthodox style of play, Maicon possesses both power and pace of a modern right-back. Maicon started his career brightly in Inter Milan, winning the Champions League in 2010 under Mourinho.
His eventual transfer to Manchester City was anything but a success, as the Brazilian didn’t get enough game time. It was vital for him to get regular football which saw his brief stay at City come to an end and join AS Roma at the start of this season.
With Barca defender Dani Alves preferred over this 32-year-old for the national team, it’s do or die for this Brazilian beast.
6. Michael Essien
Once an epitome of a box-to-box midfielder, Michel Essien now finds himself at the fringes of Chelsea. One of the most pivotal players in Mourinho’s first campaign in Chelsea, Essien’s career is plagued with serious injuries making him unfit for quite a while.
With relentless and an invincible work rate, a fully-fit Essien will still be one of the most feared and respected midfielders in England.
The second-coming of the “Special One” may be his chance to rise above and do what he does best. Though left out of the Champions League squad, the Ghana international still has to make himself available for the Premier League and the World Cup.
7. Nani
Predicted to be one of Fergie’s best signings when he came on, Nani has hardly justified that statement. A talented winger with a bag full of tricks up his sleeve, injuries and inconsistent performances made critics question his ability to play for a club like United. Ever since Ronaldo left, the onus has been on Nani to deliver the goods. The 26-year old couldn’t match that pressure and eventually lost his place in the starting XI.
Nani has signed a new 5-year contract with the Red Devils, as he is still considered to be the best winger in the current squad. With a new boss in the hot seat, the Portuguese international has a new challenge ahead.
8. Wesley Sneijder
Another feature from Mourinho’s Inter Milan which won the Serie A treble in 2010. However, Sneijder’s success was short lived. Serious injuries and contract issues with Inter Milan, Dutchman had no choice but to join Turkish Club Galatasaray.
“The Sniper” is one of the best creative midfielders for his ability to deliver accurate passes and sting goalkeepers hands.
Hard to replace someone of his calibre, the 29-year old has his work cut-out to prove why he is one of the best and cement his place in the Netherlands WC team.
9. Kaka
One of the best attacking midfielders in A.C. Milan to a bench-warmer in Real Madrid, Kaka has seen it all.
Stunning technique, incredible ball control and great intelligence on the field, Kaka is a treat to watch when he is at his best. The Brazilian was a adored figure at the San Siro.
Post his move to Real Madrid, Kaka never enjoyed the same success that he had with Milan.
Madrid have always been criticised for ruining Kaka’s career, depriving him of regular game time. After a frustrating 4 years with RM, the 31-year-old’s return to A.C. Milan is a blessing in disguise. Though Kaka will be relieved, he has his work cut-out to relive his old days again at the San Siro.
10. Mario Balotelli
Balotelli’s pace, strength and technique is often subdued for his immature and crazy attitude. As entertaining as he is, his downfall is a result of his own behaviour. The 23-year-old Italian is remembered for all the wrong reasons. He should think before he flashes his shirt and asks “Why Always Me?”
Super Mario still has ample time left and it’s high time that he comes to his senses. In a short span, Balotelli has already played for three big clubs and the Italian national team. Being back in Italy following multiple refutes with Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini, his next stint at A.C. Milan is his turning point. After all, nobody wants to see an incredible talent go wasted.
11. Fernando Torres
Torres has won every major tournament there is in football. Many say he is incredibly lucky while a few says he is incredibly talented.
Since his magical days at Anfield, the Chelsea striker has been struggling for more than 2 years. Torres has never been able to justify his transfer price. Notching up 22 goals last season was the Spaniard’s best performance in the blue shirt.
Torres is still the best striker that Chelsea and Spain have. As much as we enjoy the Torres trolls, everybody knows that he can be menacing when he is at his best. Is this going to be his season?
Formation: 4-1-2-1-2 (Wide)
Manager: Rafa Benitez
Subs: Pepe Reina, Terry, Diaby, Shinji Kagawa, David Villa, Edin Dzeko.
Disclaimer: The opinions in this article are solely of the writer, and do not reflect those of the site.
