Batalla De Titanes: Introducing the Super League

As the world anticipates a response to EA $ports recent lockout of all FIFA sanctioned tournaments for the FIFA 14 calender year, we bring you a solution.
Forever we have wondered. Who is truly the better player. SB or JM.

Well...now we will decide.
Introducing
BATALLA DE TITANES: SUPER LEAGUE. Season 1

The Battle of the Titans, (Batalla De Titanes - as it will be known in Spanish) will feature Barcelona and Real Madrid taking on a Super League of 20 star studded teams from across Europe, as agreed upon by both Barcelona and Real Madrid officials (SB and JM).

Both Barcelona and Real Madrid will play every team, including each other, home and away as per a normal league season. But this is where things are different. We are no longer interested in other results. Only the games from Barcelona and Real Madrid. This battle is between the Titans only.

A table will be kept between Barcelona and Real Madrid only and whichever team can score more points at the end of 38 rounds of league football will be crowned Champion - and winner of Batalla De Titanes.

Never has there been a more direct head to head battle for supremacy.
Will it be SB -the self proclaimed chosen one. Or can JM finally show potential does lead to greatness.

But how will the season be monitored you ask. The good old fashioned pen and paper will keep score. It worked for our ancestors and it will work again.
Leave that to the geeks at FPA to worry about.

Once the teams are agreed, an official draw will be conducted prior to kickoff after Christmas.

Start your engines kids.... things are going to get exciting!!
 

How it all went horribly wrong! And where to next...

While this feeling remains so fresh and the pain still stings deep within - we at the FPA felt now was the right time to stand up against the communists at EA $ports and FIFA once and for all.

We were promised so much. A game, which finally appears to live up to the hype. Glorious in all its new shiny appearances. A flowing display for the visual sensors like never seen before. New system. New technology. New possibilities. Fresh starts.
Then it all came crashing down like a house of cards..

For those of you who may live in cave and missed the news overnight....they debut of FIFA 14 on PS$ was a bust. a massive coverup was revealed just minutes before the launch. Well here it is - There will be no League, Cup or Champions League Seasons in FIFA 14 on P$4. Unless there is some sort of divine intervention from above. And by above I do mean those bureaucrats at EA $ports headquarters who have cast this nasty spell in the first place. So, yes, this does seem unlikely.

but despair we might...and move on we will. Like every great civilisation before us we must move forward and not dwell on what we are missing...but what we can still create with the ruin.

Look out for an announcement within the next 24 hours which will give football fans some sort satisfaction this year. That despite the Lockout of all FIFA santioned tournaments we can still find a way to unite, and fight to save our season!

We will not be defeated....pushed back into our old ways of PS3 like little piss ants. We will live on and fight until order is restored. We have been promised tournaments will return by FIFA 2015 at the very latest. Therefore an alternative is a must - and soon it will be delivered. Watch this space.

But first let me ask you this.....are you in?
We are bigger than this organisation which threatens to ruin us.
I need to hear you say it!
Say it. Are you in?!!!!

What We've Learned From PS3 Fifa so far

As we prepare to bid so long and farewell to Playstation 3 - and usher in a completely new era with the Playstation 4 system - what have we learned from the PS3 Fifa so far - this year and past.

SB still more consistent than JM:
Despite all the criticism SB received prior to this season, he has shown he can still play consistent football and win trophies. Something JM has been unable to do all season long. No doubt - one on one - it is still an even bet between the two for Top Dog honours, however when it comes to runs on the board - SB takes the prize. In regards to Clasicos - last season JM and his Real Madrid dominated. Including an 8 nil drubbing over two legs in the Copa Del Rey. Perhaps his proudest moment of all time.
This year, SB was superior in his results. With a new system upon us - it will be whoever can attapt better and more quickly to change that will take early honours.

Does JM have no luck with PS3 Fifa:
With all the bad decisions, penalties, restarts to perfect seasons due to game error updates, seasons being wiped away with saving errors - I could go on and on...but it is becoming clear JM has copped the unlucky end of this game over the years. These unlucky events never seem to affect SB. In fact, it could be said he causes most of them to occur.

JM may never win a Champions League:
As seasons have gone on, and new Fifa's developed, it appears harder and harder to win Europes top prize - the Champions League. The season was a classic opportunity, only to lose in heartbreaking circumstances once again. SB was able to win his one and only Champions League crown in the early years of this competition, when it could be argued that the game was not as tactical - more simple perhaps, easier to win. Now with PS4's Fifa 14 edition - who knows - it might just be impossible.

JM is still a bad sport:
Despite now being a married man and father - it is clear JM still has anger issues and needs to work on his sportsmanship. Despite showing glimpses of improvement - his dark side still comes to play every now and again.

SB is still a cunt:
This is just fact.

SB take sthe crown as best PS3 player:
With the introduction of PS4, the results speak for themselves. SB has won a treble and now a double. JM has a La Liga and Copa Del Rey title to his name. SB should be proud of his achievements - you certainly need alot of luck to win these cups - but you also need a alot of skill and a big heart.

Game is in desperate need of an update:
Now couldn't be better timing for the release of an updated Fifa game and PS system. The world is crying out for it. We had the farce with headers earlier in the year. The penalties fiasco. Player ratings is a shamble. I could go on...

We encourage readers to post anything we may have missed here with this article.
All in all, it has been a fun and exciting ride at times with PS3 - but we can all now look forward to a bright new world.


 

Bad Luck Real...Kings Cup Goes to Barcelona

In what was probably the most dramatic and tense finals in the history of the Copa Del Rey, Barcelona have claimed their 2nd trophy of the season defeating main rivals Real Madrid in a painful penalty shootout.

Despite looking the goods early on, Real Madrid as they have done all season long - failed to close out the game, conceding once again moments before halftime to a rather opportunistic goal from Brazil's Neymar, after earlier taking the lead through a wonderful Ronaldo finish of his own.

From there the game got awefully tense, neither side willing to concede the next goal. And so the dreaded penalties awaited after 120 mins of action packed football. And it was Real who felt the most pressure - unable to convert any of their three opening goal attempts. Barca banged away all three.

The victory gives Barcelona a special Spanish Double, after already clinching the La Liga title 24 hours earlier.

"Congratulations to SB and Barcelona." JM said after the game, bitterly disappointed.
"I believe we deserved better than this result. But its been a cruel season til the end."

Barcelona Boss SB had little to say after the game - instead he chose to just celebrate with his team of Champions long into the night. Congratulations Barcelona.

Copa Del Rey Champions - Barcelona

Barcelona Crowned Champions of Spain

Its the result many had been expecting for weeks now. Newly crowned champions of Spain, Barcelona officially closed out the title race over the weekend in rather dramatic circumstances.

With almost an unassailable lead with 7 games remaining, Barca almost managed to blow the unlosable season - needing a win from their final match of the season to ensure Real Sociadad would finish 2nd on equal points.

For man in charge SB, this is a championship crown which has eluded him for far too long. Not since the glorious treble year has he won a league title.

As for Spanish Rivals Real Madrid, it must be said a terribly disappointing season ended in a 5th position finish. It was clear Real had put all their eggs in the Champions League basket this year and again that failed to pay off.

Barcelona can now rejoice - Champions of Spain once again!

Barcelona - Champions of La Liga

Manchester Utd win Champions League

Manchester United have won the Champions League beating Chelsea in a tough final.

Player of the competition was also anounced today, as being Barcelona's Leo Messi.

ROBBED AGAIN....

Once again the hopes and dreams of all Madrid fans world wide were dashed over the weekend in what can only be described as a cruel ending for JM and his Real Madrid team.

The Champions League is the one trophy which still eludes JM to this point of his career, and hopes were certainly high this year would spell the end of the draught.

Bayern Munich was once again the opponent - a classic foe who had already managed to spoil the party for Madrid once before.
With a stalement 1st leg at home in Madrid, Real played masterfully in Munich. Neither side giving an inch - neither willing to make the crucial error. Then, who else but perhaps the best player in the world to finally break the dead lock. Ronaldo scoring what seemed to be a massive game breaker midway through the 1st half. A classic counter attack and perfect finish.

From there it seemed Real would play out the game as they did at home in the 1st leg. It seemed once again improbable that Bayern would find the 2 goals they would need to progress. With Madrid holding out wave after wave of Bayern attack. Nothing was getting through today.

Then, once again, the Fifa Gods have their say. From a Bayern corner kick, what seemed a comfortable clearance by Madrid, it was called back for a hand ball in the box. Cruel.
It goes down as perhaps the 22nd, or maybe 45th penalty Real Madrid have conceded in this way this season. Cruel.

Who steps up to take the penalty? An old nemesis by the name of Robben.
Despite Casillas appearing to pick the correct side the ball still finds a place in the side of the goal to level the game. Cruel.

Early in the 2nd half again a Bayern attack appears to come to nothing when a foul is called on Madrid. Almost touching the goal line of the far side of the field - an impossible angle. Who steps up to take the free kick. Robben.

He shoots directly at Casillas, who perhaps should have gobbled it up with ease. Instead he reacts by punching the ball high into his own net. Bayern take the lead. Cruel.

Robben adds a 3rd and final goal on the night in a man of the match performance

From there Real must now push forward - time against them. Big season recruit Gareth Bale had a brilliant chance to level the game but pushed his effort from outside of the box uncharacteristally wide of the goal. Big miss. Cruel.

With Madrid's ultra attack style in the final 20 mins, Bayern were able to find space and added to the misery with a further 2 goals - including a hat trick to Robben. Cruel.
Game over. 

Casillas walks away from another heartbreaking defeat

Barca Exit UCL..But Still Lead La Liga

The biggest news of the week is the Champions League elimination of former winners Barcelona at the hands of a brilliant Chelsea team.

Although only slight favourites coming into the tie, Barcelona were still expected the progress through to the Quarter Finals stage, however they could have envisaged coming up agaisnt such a resiliant team as Chelsea over the two games.

Barcelona Boss SB was left rather speechless after losing to his former team and only managed to say his a few words. He said his team felt weak in both games - not the team he's used to seeing week in week out in La Liga.

Though his dream of a 2nd treble is over for now, SB can now direct all focus firmly towards closing out a La Liga season he and his team have seemingly wrapped up. They lead their nearest rival Real Socidad by 4 points with 8 games remaining.

Fabregas player hard but it just wasn't to be against Chelsea

On the flip side, Spanish rivals Real Madrid have had a disappointing domestic campaign, with JM practically conceding the La Liga title to Barcelona over the weekend. However his eyes and that of his team are now firmly focussed on a Champions League crown - a title he has never won and for obvious reason craves the most.

"Yes we are disappointed to be so far behind in La Liga. I think this is for Barcelona now to lose." JM spoke on Monday to the media.

"But I am very pleased with our progression in Europe. Bayern will be a most difficult opponent and I know we must train hard and play better than we have all season to beat them. But I know we can do this."

No doubt memories of the last time Real and Bayern clashed in a Champions League match will be in their minds. The final in 2010 which saw Madrid spill a 2 goal lead only to lose in extra time thanks 2 separate come backs and 2 goals from Bayern star Robben.

"We have not forgotten - and we will use it as motivation. Many of my players played in this match. We will like revenge, that is for sure."

Modric, Ronaldo and Bale look relaxed at training ahead of their Champion League QF

How many Penalties is enough?

In what can only be described as crazy mid week action this week - the hot topic still on everyone's lips was the great penalty debate which saw Real Madrid penalised more than any club in the history of professional EA Sports Football.

The total count was lost in the end, which is a true testament to how many there actually were in the space of only 4 games. The turkey which takes the prize is the 3 penalties awarded to Juventus in the Champions League group stage game - where Real Madrid were judged to have handled the ball in the penalty box 3 times. Justice prevailed as only one penalty was actually converted by Juve striker Carlos Tevez.

JM is almost thrown out of the game after his temper exploded in the recent La Liga match

After blowing up deluxe during their most recent La Liga game which saw his Madrid team suffer another heartbreaking last minute draw as a result of - yep you guessed it - another penalty - JM made no apologies the following day with the fire in his belly still burning.
Full transcript of his press conference is available below;

“Let’s talk about the real turning point. Let’s talk about all the penalties.”JM said.
“Unless I’m blind, I can see the ball going past my players with no touch - so what was the decision?
“Can someone answer me that? Someone?
“C’mon. C’mon, that’s ridiculous."
"They said Bale pushed him over and thats the penalty and all of sudden its 1-1! I mean C’mon.
C’mon, that’s ridiculous."“There’s got to be an investigation into this."
“Someone has to be accountable for this. And they have got to be accountable for the penalty count!.”
"We can't be that bad, seriously!! Is this the best referees we've got? I don't know what to say."

Losing his mind against Juventus

No word yet if JM will be officially punished for his behaviour both during the match and his post match comment. Nor has JM yet apologised formally for his embarassing fit during the recent 1-1 draw with Real Socidad.

His Madrid team now sit in the uncomfortable position of 6th, 11 points off the pace of league leaders and cross town rivals Athletico Madrid.

Barca claim first blood in La Liga

After a somehwhat torrid pre-season and shaky beginning to FIFA 14, Barcelona have claimed bragging rights on their fast start to the new La Liga campaign in Spain.

Despite starting the year off in almost unbeatable fashion, Real Madrid find themselves slightly off the pace in the league, largely due to their only losses this year, and both against their main rivals, Barcelona and Athleico Madrid.

JM would be considerably disappointed with their current place on the ladder, after looking "invincible" for 14 games since the arrival of FIFA 14.

"I am not happy with the two losses. We had opportunities to beat Barcelona, and perhaps a draw would have been a fair result - but we were not good enough on the day." JM spoke to press yesterday.
"And Athletico took their one chance against us and we didn't take ours - thats football."

"But I cannot complain - 14 matches of this quality and to not lose is remarkable at this level - so I suppose the losses were inevitable in some ways."

Fans of Real Madrid cannot help but feel angry by the decision of EA and La Liga to restart the league after technology updates recently - with Real Madrid sitting top of the table at the time - and rivals Barceloan languishing in 7th place.

"This was a decision we all agreed to at the end of the day - so we cannot complain." JM said of the decision.
"Obviously it has worked out to Barcelona's advantage - I'm sure everyone would like a restart when seasons do not go well from the start - so it has worked out very well for them."
"Its a long season and it will level out and we know that."

JM not entirely happy with the new season start

Champions League action continues tonight when both Barcelona and Real Madrid have the chance to cement their places on top of their groups after both with unbeaten starts to the tournament. 

Real win dramatic Super Cup

It was the first official meeting between Spain's biggest rivals for season Fifa14, with neither side capitalising on a number of chances after 120 minutes of football before the match would finally be decided by the dreaded penalty shoot out.

Barcelona had several opportunities to seal the shootout however with each failed attempt - looked ever so nervous. The drama filled penalties included every player on the field having a shot - even keepers Casillas and Valdes having a go.

However today was again Real Madrid's day - claiming bragging rights for a promising new season.

"I am pleased with the final result." JM said after the game.
"But I am not pleased that we let them control most of the match for maybe 70 - 80 minutes. This was disappointing."

Barcelona looked in complete control for much of both halves without success. It wasn't until the a tired looking midfield of Iniesta and Xavi were replaced did Madrid begin to look threatening. Enough so to even having their own chances to steal the match in the 90 minutes.

SB was clearly disappointed with the loss however would be more than pleased with the effort of his team today.

Real Madrid celebrate winning the Super Cup

New Season is Upon Us

With the highly anticipated new instalment of the EA Sports FIFA franchise, comes the promise of a new and exciting season for our friendly foes - SB and JM.

WIth both in control of two of the world's biggest clubs, the expectation will once again be extremely high for success. In what seems a transition year in terms of Playstation Systems and EA Sports biggest game - we may only see one season in this current platform. So what exactly can we expect to see from SB and JM this time around?

SB has been widely criticised in recent seasons for his teams lack of success. Since his treble winning season with Barcelona - no trophies have ever come his way. So will this year be any different?
As ususal, when asked to comment on expectations on the upcoming season SB declined to comment. 
Whether he remains tight lipped about the season ahead because he'd prefer to keep the pressure off his star studded team - or he just continues to show a complete lack of respect for the worlds media - jury is still out on that one.

Expectation for SB and his Barcelona are high as reported in Newspapers around the world this morning

Real Madid man in charge JM enjoys a friendly relationship with the worlds press and speaking today to a press conference he arranged he said he now feels his side is perfectly primed to seriously challenge for total Spanish and European dominance.

" I think last year was good for us. We showed despite being number 1 for much of the year - you must be able to win those big games at the end when it all counts." JM spoke to friends in the media.

"I think we are stronger this time as a team. Big new additions like Bale and Isco have given the side a massive boost. For me personally, I feel I have grown as a manager - both tactically and mentally.
Also I feel the new style of football in Fifa14 suits us. It is slower when it needs to be and we have players who can speed up the play when we need it. In the air it is important to be strong - and we have the players who fill this role. We are expecting nothing but success this season."

JM speaks his mind to a packed press conference this morning

As usual, Barcelona and Real Madrid will get the opportunity to size each other up in the Spanish Super Cup. This will give both teams and managers one final chance to see where they stand before the official season kickoff to La Liga.

Good luck to both Barcelona and Real Madrid on their campaigns ahead.

  

Real Madrid Champs of FIFA 13

The stage was set. Eight of the best teams in the world. One blockbuster event to give FIFA 13 the official send off it deserved.

We saw the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, PSG, Manchester Utd, Juventus, Dortmund and Chelsea battle it out for the Cab Merlot Cup. Sure, this title didn't exactly have the same pedigree as the Champions League, however it would certainly put on a show for fans worldwide, and more importantly give rivals SB and JM one final chance to face off and take bragging rights into a new era with FIFA 14.

And what did we learn from this cup? Well, that Real Madrid and JM are serious contenders. And had a little luck been on their side throughout the year they might have even won a title or two.
Disposing of Cup favourites Bayern Munich in the group stages, and Juventus in style before them, PSG in the semi final, and then taking care of Chelsea with ease in the Final, JM and his team looked every bit the real deal! Bring on FIFA 14.

What else did we learn? We learnt alittle more about the mentality of SB than we knew before. We already knew he is not quite the player he once was and with every new editon of EA Sports FIFA he drops a peg or two, but now we also see his nerves tested. An outburst such as what was witnessed when rival JM and Real Madrid won the title has not been seen by SB before.
Is this a case of one off frustration? Or a new side of SB which we should be prepared to see more of?

On the field, Barca showed fight against a determined Chelsea, but couldn't hold on despite coming back from a 2 goal deficit from game 1 of the tie. Chelsea's front man Eto'o proved the difference over the two legs and Barca were left with only their little tails between their legs as they were knocked out against opponets they were expected the beat.

In a year when neither player was able to lift a significant trophy, this comes as a special victory. Well done JM. We hope SB can find improvement in himself and his team before a new campaign begins.

Today is also a special time for FIFA fans everywhere. We welcome a new edition to the fifa family and prepare for a new and exciting journey.

Good luck to both SB and JM on behalf of all at FPA and we look forward to plenty of action and controversy in the months to come.

Here's how we stand after several years of EA Sports FIFA. 
SB and his special treble still lead over JM who is yet to win a Champions League. Will 2013/2014 be the year?

FIFA 13 in Review - Who is King?

Well as another year of EA Sports FIFA is now behind us, we wait anxiously for the arrival of FIFA 14. But as we wait, and as we do every year in September, we officially review the season that was and make an informed decision, based on statistics, on who was the more dominate player for the 2012/13 year.

And after collating the below data - its quite clear that neither player can claim a victory based on the year that was. In fact - both SB and JM would most definitely label this past 12 months as not only disappointing, but embarassing.

Both big time players in world FIFA managed a total of ZERO trophies in the past 12 months.

Both managed an FA Cup Final appearance. But both managed to lose the FA Cup Final. Woohoo

Best result in any league was JM and his Real Madrid team last season, finishing a very close 2nd to Valencia when play was suspended and Valencia were controversially handed the trophy.

We've said it before and we'll say it again - the game is crying out for a champion! Can someone please step up!

Based on recent Classico performances, JM would apear to be the current better player, but these things have a habit of levelling out. Time will tell.

You decide for yourself from the below digusting statistics. I can't read it anymore - makes me sick.

SB - FIFA 13 in review:

Season 1

Team: Chelsea -
English Premier League (DNF)
FA Cup (Round of 16)
Champions League (Group Stage)

Season 2

Team: Chelsea -
English Premier League (4th)
FA Cup (Runners-Up - Final)
Champions League (Round of 16)

 
Season 3,

Team: Barcelona - 
La Liga (3rd)
Copa Del Rey (QF)
Champions League (QF)



Such a disappointing year for SB



JM - FIFA 13 in review:

Season 1

Team: Manchester United - 
English Premier League (DNF)
FA Cup (Runners-Up - Final)
Champions League (Group Stage)

Season 2

Team: Manchester United - 
English Premier League (5th)
FA Cup (QF)
Champions League (Round of 16)

Season 3,

Team: Real Madrid-
La Liga (2nd)
Copa Del Rey (Runners-Up - Final)
Champions League (QF)

JM would not be happy with his results for the past 12 months - or this photo


  

Now is the Time for SB and JM

A new season always promises so much. Yet for some reason, season after season it has failed to deliver on that promise for our respective star players in this crazy game we like to call EA Sports FIFA.

But now, a new frontier is upon us. New technology dawns and it is finally now that we may see true greatness rise from the depths of failure and disappointment. I am talking about FIFA 14 and how we here at the FPA expect our rival players SB and JM to finally step up and grab a season by the balls!

For SB, its been a terribly dry spell. No one can deny he's done it all. A treble with Barcelona. World Cup victories with numerous nations. He has his name inked on that famous Adidas ball more times than JM and PM put together.

But...this was all in the past. For over 2 FIFA years we have not seen a trophy lifted. For all the talking there has been no delivery. Yeah sure, we have seen a final or two here and there - most famously a Champions League final when his Chelsea went up against AC Milan. We know how that ended.

We need to see something special from this man. Now is the time. Many will argue that his treble was won during a special time for Barcelona. A truly gifted team. At a time when EA Sports FIFA perhaps lacked tactical technology. If he could come close to replicating this again - then there would be no questioning the legacy.

 

A new look SB prepares his Barcelona team for training drill

JM is a different story. A tale of what could have been up until now. A La Liga Championship and Copa Del Rey title his only highlights to this point - and too many finals lost to remember.

You might say its been a difficult time for this aging star. The Treble success of SB was a particulary bleak time in his career. The unlosable Champions League final to Bayern Munich. And then there was the 'Black Friday' events of 2011. When JM led in all competitions and looked certain for Champions League glory (deep into the QF's stage) and an admin/system error saw the complete end of his campaign. Some said it was SB's attempt to sabotage and prevent a possible JM treble. But we will never know the truth.

But now in late 2013, we begin to see a new JM. He seems to have ridden himself of the demons of his past. Gone are the uncontrollable fits of rage and temper which has seen him placed on self imposed bans on so many occasions. Now we see a more controlled and relaxed personality. Perhaps fatherhood has something to do with it. Nonetheless, many are now tipping JM - with this ridiculously talented Real Madrid team to do what he has never been able to do - win everything possible.
Some are calling him the new King of FIFA - but lets put things into perspective. Even though he is clearly now one on one a better player than SB, he needs to win titles to prove his is the best there is.


The new JM (And his team of Assistants) see over Real Madrid training this week

This is the year for history to be made. Who will be the man to step up?

JM and SB are pals outside the playing arena

Real Madrid devastated to lose another title

JM and his Real Madrid team are inconsolable after another loss in a cup final - this team to Valencia in the Copa Del Rey final. The same team coincidentally which  took out this seasons La Liga title.

Despite looking odds on favourite to add to their Kings Cup crown of 2011, Real Madrid suffered another case of Cup blues going down to 2-1 to their unfancied opposition.

"Today I am really angry." JM told reporters
"This is a really big missed opportunity by me and my team. We deserve at least this title this year. I am very disappointed."

None the less, the final marks a rather successful campaign for JM on his return to Spain this season - having outplayed Barcelona all season and drubbing them in this tournament 8 nil over 2 legs.

"I am proud of the achievements - but this is still not enough."
"Next year, with personnel changes - I am confident we will be unstoppable."

Bring on FIFA 14.

JM extremely disappointed with final loss

CLASSIC-CO HUMILIATION! All hail a new King!

Is this the official passing over of the Crown? The King of Fifa dominance crown which SB and his teams of control have held for what seems like as far back as the beginning. But slowly with each passing season, each passing new evolution of this thing we like to call EA Sports Fifa, SB's control has slowly dwindled and withered away like a glass of ice on a hot summers day. 

All the way back to that famous Treble year, even back to the PM vs JM vs SB days - SB dominated. With this fact not open for dispute or discussion - SB and his 'special' Barcelona team clearly were the better player.
Season after season.
But what has he won since?
We have clearly seen a shift. As the game has become more sophisticated and technical, SB has been left with a style of play which is no longer relevant or capable of winning on the big stage.

This could not be more evident than what was witnessed by the world on Friday night. This was the 'Classico' which was billed as the official decider for champion of FIFA 13 between the great rivals SB and JM and their respective teams.

Not only was Barcelona outplayed over 2 legs - they were humiliated and destroyed.
Never has an SB controlled team been as legless as this display. The final result, 2-0 win to Real Madrid in Game 1. And 6-0win by Real Madrid in Game 2. Madrid move on to the Semi Finals of the Copa Del Rey and Barcelona go home to reflect on what has gone wrong.

With the release of FIFA 14 only a matter of weeks away - does JM start the new cycle of FIFA as King. The fact remains - JM and his Real Madrid have been undefeated over Barcelona all season long. And despite not picking up a trophy - Real Madrid clearly dominated all competitions this season over his rival SB's Barcelona.

For SB this new off season needs to be a time to reflect. Look in the mirror and decide where things need to change. In every great players life comes a time when he asks himself - is it that time to hang up the controls? We certainly hope that this is not that time - but perhaps an opportunity for SB to reinvent himself. We look forward to a new version soon.

SB jokes have now gone viral all over the world

Spanish Disappointment Once Again in Champions League

This was meant to be the year of Spanish dominance in the Champions League. Both Real Madrid and Barcelona promised show much - and in the end, delivered so little.

After overcoming Napoli in grand style, Madrid was ousted by the eventual Champions Manchester City, who appeared to have more than just luck on their side - they had pockets full of fucken four leaf clovers because every ball fell in their lap over the two encounters.

"We were certainly up against it in Manchester - they just got every bounce of the ball. We played well - but nothing worked for us." JM said after the losses.

"But we will try again next year - with an improved squad - I am confident we can do better."

Real Madrid's Ronaldo stands dejected after their loss to Manchester City

Perhaps the biggest disappointment award goes to Barcelona. With perhaps one of the easier ties of the draw against Spanish rivals Valencia, they were expected to go through with little resistance. 
However Valencia hadn't read the script. They dominated the 2nd leg of the tie at home to Barcelona to clinch a memorable victory.

"I can't believe whats happening. First we saw what happened in La Liga, now this." SB was left with little to say after the defeat.

"Its so hard to win a Champions League these days." He added before storming off.

A shell shocked Barcelona after their defeat to Valencia

It appears we must wait another season - for another version of FIFA before SB or JM can compete for Champions League glory.

For SB, he must forever cling to the treble win of 2011. With nothing new to celebrate in over 2 years, Who can blame him.

For JM - his dream of a Champions League title will continue until he can put together a Real Madrid team that can finally put to rest the demons of a heartbreaking final loss to Bayern Munich 2 years ago.

Until then my friends.

Black Friday...Worst Night in Fifa History

We didn't think it could get any worse then when an entire season was wiped away with a blink of an eye by a technical error as it did back on a certain Black Friday in 2011.

Well, things just got worse. The curse of Black Friday strikes again.

This is how it happened.  With 3 games still remaining in La Liga,  League leaders Real Madrid lost a crucial match in the lead up to the conclusion of the season which saw them drop to second on the ladder. Barcelona, with a game in hand sat in 3rd position, only one point adrift of Real, and 4 points from new league leaders Valenica.

This is where things get crazy. A Fifa/EA systems error hands Valencia the title - due to the fact they will eventually go through the remaining 3 games undefeated, therefore maintaining top spot and winning the league ahead of rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona.. We use the word eventually because to everyone else invloved this competition was still wide open.

We are not sure at this point can or will this be investigated. However with a new version of FIFA and Sony operating system on its way, we can only assume these errors are not possible in the new era.

The EA Sports office responsible for the farce on Friday night

For Barcelona and especially Real Madrid, this is no doubt a huge opportunity blown to win a La Liga title which seemed within their grasp all season long.

"It all went downhill very quickly on our return from the long holiday break". JM spoke after Friday night's nightmare events.

"It was as if we almost forgot how to win games. I am very disappointed. I cannot even blame EA Sports or Fifa at this point - this is our own disappointment I am feeling.

Barcelona boss SB was left angry and confused.
"I feel like calling EA sports right now and letting them have it." SB spoke immediately after Valencia was handed the title.

"I mean, how can this happen. We still had games to play. Its a farce! I want an investigation"

A sad end to a great season. A bitter taste left in everyone's mouth. Yuk.

Barca and Real seal spot in Champions League QF

La Liga heavy weights Barcelona and Real Madrid both sealed their passage through to the Champions League Quarter Finals stage after impressive wins against difficult opponents in the Round of 16.

Barcelona saw off a determined Manchester United in both the away and home legs of their tie.
Although United certainly looked the better team for much of their opening game, a red card to United Captain Vidic made things very difficult for Man U. They rallied hard but eventaully a crucial away goal to Barca could not be avoided.

The return leg was a different story. Barcelona always looked in control, and despite a late comebck from United, a Quarter final spot against Valencia for the Catalans was most certainly inevitable.

Rooney and Co made things difficult for Barca, but in the end they did it comfortably

Real Madrid on the other hand did things much tougher. Up against a one man team in Cavani and his Napoli soldiers.

Madrid dominated a 1st leg at home only to see chance after chance wasted, while Napoli's main man Cavani took his one chance without hesitation. Madrid's only saving grace was a saved penalty by Casillas on Cavani which would have most certainly ended Real Madrid's Champions League hopes.

The return leg - with it all to do, on a rain soaked Italian pitch, Madrid resiliant as they were determined - did what they needed to do. Ronaldo leading the charge with an almighty assist to Ramos for an important opening goal before sealing the tie with 2 goals himself including a heoric penalty before half time.

Cavani again made things difficult with a late goal to give Napoli hope, but this was to be JM and his Real Madrid teams night. Booking a place against Manchester City in the Quarter finals.

Edinson Cavani was near unstoppable for Napoli once again

La Liga Return to Action

After a seven week hiatus due to international duty and family leave, La Liga officially returned to action overnight in Spain.

League leading top guns Real Madrid failed to put a knife through the chasing pack with 2 losses coming unexpectadly at home to lowly opponents.
Could this just be a late season slump or a signs of a side struggling with the weight of expectation. Either way Real Madrid must now find a way to cement their lead from the chasing pack which includes Sevilla (currently 1st with a game in hand), Valencia, Athleico Madrid and Barceloana.

That team, Barcelona, have had their own struggles. 2 draws from their last 3 outings is very disappointing particularly when they are now 8 points adrift from the leaders.

It will be a big finish to La Liga, with 8 games remaining - can Real Madrid stay strong and take the title which many had them picked for all season long. Or can Barcelona, a team most have already written off for this season come back and steal it from their arch rivals grips.

We know one thing for sure, it will be damn exciting.

Ronaldo showing frustration in a difficult 3 games for Real Madrid

Adios, Ciao, Auf Wiedersehen...Bog!

The Fifa Players Association would just like to bid Barcelona manager SB and Company a safe and happy trip abroad.

Rumours have it SB will be basing himself in beautiful Croatia as he attempts to scout new and exciting talent from across Europe. As well as spend time to mentally evaluate a season which has not exactly gone to plan thus far before returning to finish one of the most exciting seasons in recent memory.

Well on behalf of the team here at the FPA - all the best champ. 



Picturesque Croatia



SB Scouting new talent in Croatia



SB hard at work making deals

  









    

Champions League draw revealed

The world's media gathered in Zurich over the weekend for the draw of the next round of European Champions League matches. 

With a difficult time qualifying from their group, Barcelona made life even tougher finishing 2nd and as a result have landed Manchester United in the round of 16 stage of the competition.

A former team of SB's big rival JM, Manchester United will be extra motivated to deliver the killer blow to SB's hopes of a 2nd Champions League title with Barcelona this year.

JM's current team, La Liga leader Real Madrid have themselves a difficult task of getting past Edinson Cavani's Napoli.

"This will be difficult, yes. " JM spoke after the draw announcement.

"But there is no easy games at this stage of the Champions League, and we must expect to play the best of Europe to win this title."

Barcelona boss SB looked concerned as he heard the draw, with his Barcelona team struggling on all fronts this season and will go into this tie only slight favorites.

Champions League action will resume after a forced break for International duty.

Barcelona pitted against English Giants Manchester United in the Round of 16

Real win Classico & show Liga Dominance

Real Madrid comprehensively defeated their main Spanish rivals Barcelona in La Liga's final Classico of the season.

The team from Madrid dominated from start to finish with 2 goals from striker Karim Benzema, including a bomb in the first half worthy of one of the goals of the season.
Barcelona managed a late goal in stoppage time but this was only a consolation after a very disappointing showing.

In fact Barcelona have had a terrible run of form which has seen them drop from 1st to 5th place in a matter of 6 games. A very concerning fact indeed.

Real Madrid on the other hand have taken control of La Liga and is now their's to lose heading into the international break.

"Yes this is where would hoped we would be at this stage of the season." JM spoke on Saturday

"Destiny is in our hands and if we keep winning games the title will be our's."

Both SB and JM have only ever won one league title each, neither coming close to a 2nd.
Perhaps history is in the making.

Benzema scores one of the goals of the season in the Classico

Barca boss SB confirms season will resume in September

Barcelona manager SB called a press conference today only hours after Spain's heavy defeat in the Confederations Cup. Although he confirmed he had not actually watched the game live, he did say he taped it and we assume he would watch it later.

On the back of speculation that the current La Liga, Champions League and Copa Del Rey season may be rushed due to International duty, SB confirmed he was committed to fighting it out well and truly into September if necessary.

"If this season must stick it out to September then it should, I wouldn't want my treble chances (or anyone else's) thrown in the bin on a rushed season - when it looks like its going to be an epic season and so far has been exceptional."

From the Real Madrid camp, manager JM was asked for comments on the same matter and he indicated he did agree with his collegue's opionons.

SB also spoke today about what it takes to win a Treble, after having successfully managed the superhuman feat several seasons ago with Barcelona.


SB dictates to the spanish press

 



















"You need hard work, motivation and team harmony." SB then continued.
"As a treble winner myself I believe JM (Real Madrid Manager) has potential, but I think hard work will let him down - lack of."


When told of the remarks from SB, JM refused to be drawn into the discussion, only saying he respects his opposite manager and would rather talk once this season is complete. However he looked visibly agitated after the interview.



JM reacts to the comments of SB earlier today





SB: "My Hardest Game Ever"

Barcelona suffered their second loss of their Champions League campaign overnight with a 2 nil defeat at the hands of Group leaders Benfica.

It leaves Barcelona in the nervous position of a must win or draw match up in their last group encounter in freezing Russia to avoid elimination.

"Why do we have to get a match like this in the Champions League?" A frustrated SB spoke to the press about the Benfica loss.

"This was my hardest game ever...seriously!"

Pressure will surely be on to get a result in Russia - this being SB's first year back with the club, after previously winning the Champions League, in a glorious treble winning year.

Barcelona also currently lead Spain's La Liga ahead of league rivals Real Madrid by 1 point.


A stressed SB talks about his hardest game ever.



Barca, Madrid take control of Liga

As the La Liga season closes in on the half way point, the league giants Barcelona and Real Madrid have done what most predicted they would and taken control of La Liga.
After a slow start, Barcelona have found a consistent groove to take pole position on the La Liga ladder this week and this comes after suffering their first loss of the season, and a humiliating one at that.

They lead their main rivals Real Madrid by only a point after 19 games, with a resiliant Sevilla sitting precariously in 3rd.

It seems a two horse race now with any drop in points vital as we move into the 2nd half of the season.

In Champions League news, Real Madrid have all but secured a Round of 16 birth with an unbeaten start to their group stage. They will look to consolidate top spot when the reverse fixtures begin in the coming days.


La Liga rivals Barcelon haven't done it quite so easy, with a loss against their Russian opponents ruining a perfect unbeaten start to their season. They now have a nervy battle to ensure they progress, however with a side as talented as Barcelona, boss SB shouldn't really have any problem.

The form of Messi has been crucial for Barcelona as they hit top spot



Solid Start to La Liga as Classico Ends In Draw

La Liga finally kicked off at the weekend and with it saw a return of two of the most high profile bosses in recent memory - SB and JM both return to their respective former clubs, Barcelona and Real Madrid, with unfinished business listed as official priorities.

SB found the going alittle tough in his return to Barcelona, a club which saw him reach the greatest of heights, a prolific Treble in what seems like many moons ago. Some might say a solid start, with zero loses after 8 games, however far too many draws at this stage, including a late goal to take split honours in the Classico - perhaps buying SB alittle more time with the fierce Barca media and fans.

Real Madrid have also started the season solid, and in somewhat sizzling form at stages, JM obviously relishing the chance to work with some of his favourite talents in particluar Cristiano Ronaldo.


Ronaldo in sizzling form for Real Madrid

"I'm just glad to be back where I am loved - here in Madrid." JM said to a packed media conference. Perhaps in reference to his somewhat difficult time in England.

"We have trophies in mind here and I believe with this team we can acheive great things."



Chelsea End Another Season Without Trophy

It won't be remembered as a classic FA Cup final, but the final between Chelsea and Tottenham was as tense and hard fought as any in recent memory.

After a brutal goaless 120 minutes of football, their fate was left in the hands of the football gods as Tottenham took out the title after a dramatic penalty shootout.

Tottenham celebrate winning the FA Cup

It was crucial misses from Fernando Torres and Ashley Cole that cost Chelsea the title today - and ensured SB leaves England for now without a single trophy to show for three seasons of hard work.

SB is known to be devastated as his time in England is now up and has no bragging rights whatsoever to show for it.

Things may not improve for SB next season as he takes over his former club Barcelona - a team clearly on the decline in Europe.

With both SB and JM signing only one year deals with La Liga and their respective sides, they may be back in England sooner rather than later.

SB: "No One's Ever Gonna Win England!"

"No One's Ever Gonna Win England!"
Well with those word's from SB its official - both SB and JM will be headed back to Spain, where SB will take up his former role with Barcelona and JM will also resume at Real Madrid.

"My time in England has been a good one, however we had been dealt some difficult cards, and lost many hands." JM spoke to packed media conference in Madrid.

"I always spoke of my love for Real Madrid and hoped I would return one day - I am glad this opportunity has presented itself and we plan to do big things next season."

It is officially a one year deal both JM and SB have signed and it is suggested they will then return to England however both refused to confirm this.

"I will keep my options open - but yes I definitley have unfinished business in Manchester."

Real Madrid new coach JM holds a press conference at the Bernabéu

SB was welcomed back where he won a treble with Barcelona what seems like a million years ago - however optimism is now high he can repeat the performances of several years ago.

SB announces his home coming to great media attention in Barcelona today

It has been almost forgotten SB still has an FA Cup season to finish with a possible 1st ever trophy in England on offer between the two rivals. Although bookies have Chelsea at a very outside chance of taking the title since his Barcelona appointment was announced.

The Clasico is back - SB and JM will resume a rivalry in La Liga

Man City win another EPL Title

Once again it was not to be for the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United as they were left looking at a season which promised so much yet delivered so little.

Manchester City and Liverpool were left to fight out another season, and it was Man City who emerged the victor. Well deserved after leading for more than a majority of the year.

However with this result, the questions were immediately raised to the big boys from Chelsea and Man Utd - would they continue on in England despite yet another failure.

Rumors immediately after the final EPL game of the season suggest both managers could be back on their way to Spain - and their former clubs seem the most likely of destinations.

Although nothing official at this time - it would certainly appear a sad end to their time in England.

Man City celebrate winning the EPL title