13 Nov 2017 23:52:15
Little bit off topic guys but I was having a discussion with one of my mates as to whether there were more world class or naturally talented footballers say 10-15 years ago than there are now.

We both agreed that there were some truly talented players who were great on the eye such as nedved, Brazilian Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. Whereas now my mate argues although we have genuine once in a life time talent such as Ronaldo and Messi, the rest lack that something which he can't quite put his finger on it.

I think it's down to the fact that football has lost its romanticism. It's now a commercial giant where it is about money as opposed the beauty of the game. I also argued that it's purely because these players have retired and when we look back and tell our kids about the stars of yesteryear, we will rave and say how there are no players like Rooney or Ronaldo or Messi.

So what do you guys think and who is everybody's top 3 players from 10-15 years ago. As I mentioned earlier I loved nedved, Brazilian Ronaldo and Ronaldinho who was just a magician on the ball. Big fan of maldini as well top top player. Be great to hear from the Ed's as well!

1.) 14 Nov 2017
14 Nov 2017 07:58:04
I think there are a handful of truly great players in every generation and by the laws of averages with so many players worldwide I think this will always be so. I do think though that teams in general are so much more professional physically fit stronger and organised that it becomes harder and harder for the best to shine. Look how a well organised Sweden defeated a creatively better Italian team over two legs as one proof.

2.) 14 Nov 2017
14 Nov 2017 08:15:44
You might be right about the romanticism, but I think it's worth considering that overall the skill level of players has improved across the board. It's hard to stand out when the entire tier of professional players is faster, stronger, and more technical than it was 20 years ago.

Also, Zidane is maybe my favorite ever player.

3.) 14 Nov 2017
14 Nov 2017 09:27:14
Nostalgia effect.

4.) 14 Nov 2017
14 Nov 2017 09:51:03
That much emphasis on running, tracking back coaching tactics honest to god talent is being coached out the game .

5.) 14 Nov 2017
14 Nov 2017 11:01:57
Modern coaches seem very adept now at being able to set a team up to make it very hard to beat . Lots of games can feel like attack v defense with one team very dominant possession wise but facing large numbers defending and finding it a real struggle . Maybe it was like this 20 year ago but it feels more common now .

6.) 14 Nov 2017
14 Nov 2017 12:00:20
"Rooney, Ronaldo or Messi". :)

Sorry, jred. Couldn't resist, mate.

7.) 14 Nov 2017
14 Nov 2017 12:38:23
Zidane was a magnificent player, that juventus midfield with him conte Davids deschamps.
That era United had to make do with Giggs Beckham keane and scholes .

8.) 15 Nov 2017
15 Nov 2017 14:14:57
Your right jred and both of those awesome midfields only one 1 cl each. Shows you have tough it is to win.