(Afc) stealth

The difference between Diego Simeone and Mikel Arteta defensively is that Atlético often need everyone behind the ball to look defensively organised. Arsenal can defend effectively regardless of the opponent or style of play. Whether they're facing a low block or an elite attacking side, their defensive structure remains solid. Atlético struggle when they cannot sit deep and pack the box, which is why they can be vulnerable against teams that dominate possession. Defence isn't just about putting bodies behind the ball; it's about structure, organisation and knowing how to defend in different situations. That's what makes Arteta a better defensive manager.

Barcelona may have beaten Atlético Madrid, but their defensive problems remain glaring. Their attack and midfield are good enough to compete with anyone, but the high line leaves far too much space in behind. Atlético had several opportunities to exploit it but lacked the quality and clinical finishing to punish them. They were also too passive, spending most of the game defending. Barcelona cannot rely on every opponent sitting back and allowing them to dominate possession. Elite teams will attack those spaces aggressively, and Barcelona will keep getting exposed until Hansi Flick addresses this defensive weakness.

After Pedri and Bernal's performances against Atlético Madrid, the question has to be asked again: did Barcelona ever really need Rodri? Pedri and De Jong can offer everything Rodri would bring to that midfield, possibly even more. Barcelona's midfield has never been the problem, even before Rodri became an option. Their biggest weakness has always been the high defensive line and their defensive structure. Rodri would be an upgrade in quality, but he's a luxury, not a necessity.

Manchester United keep losing games, yet there's a player earning over £325,000 a week who Michael Carrick brought back to revive his career, and he's nowhere to be seen. If I speak, I'll be in trouble.

Juventus were leading 2-1 in the Europa League before conceding a late equaliser that was eventually ruled out. Spalletti was so furious with the defender responsible that he nearly slapped him. That's the kind of authority Manchester United need from a manager. I'm not saying they should hire Spalletti, but Carrick's passive approach isn't helping. These players need a manager who holds them accountable instead of constantly protecting them. Taking responsibility for their mistakes without consequences only encourages more of the same.

If Barcelona lose this game, their big-game aura under Hansi Flick will take another massive hit. They cannot afford to keep losing these high-profile fixtures. At some point, the excuses have to stop.

If not for injuries, Pablo Barrios would be in the same conversation as João Neves right now. He's ridiculously good on the ball and still underrated. He's having an absolutely brilliant game against Barcelona.

There's hardly anyone in this Barcelona team who plays with more passion than Fermín López. He genuinely bleeds for this club, gives everything on the pitch and is always kissing the badge. A true Culer.

I can barely remember Atlético Madrid beating Barcelona in La Liga. This has to be one of the most one-sided rivalries in Spanish football history. Fermín López scores yet again to put Barcelona ahead. What a player!