{ "version": "https://jsonfeed.org/version/1", "title": "Top 100", "icon": "https://avatars.micro.blog/avatars/2026/35/7092.jpg", "home_page_url": "https://smtop100.blog/", "feed_url": "https://smtop100.blog/feed.json", "items": [ { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/09/09/top-has-moved/", "title": "Top 100 has moved", "content_html": "

By David Marsden

\n

Update, 9 September 2026: the move is now happening for real.

\n

smtop100.blog is now running on Micro.blog, with more than a decade of Top 100 posts and images carried across from WordPress.

\n

The important stuff already works:

\n\n

The old WordPress site is being frozen as an archive, so managers should now use the Publishing Desk rather than posting there.

\n

Coming soon

\n

There are still a few boxes to unpack.

\n

We’ll be checking old links and redirects, tidying categories and navigation, improving the presentation of the archive and continuing to integrate the different parts of the Top 100 family.

\n

We’ll also be moving existing email subscribers across so people can continue receiving new Top 100 posts.

\n

The bigger aim remains the same: preserve the history, make the site easier to use, and make it much easier for managers to contribute again.

\n

Less WordPress faff, more Top 100.

\n

— David
\nTop 100 Admin

\n
\n

Written 7 September 2026

\n

After more than a decade of posts, reports, arguments, predictions, match write-ups, announcements, awards and the occasional outbreak of complete nonsense, I’m moving the Top 100 website from WordPress to Micro.blog.

\n

This isn’t a fresh start in the sense of wiping the slate clean. Quite the opposite.

\n

The aim is to preserve the history properly while giving us a much simpler, cleaner platform for what comes next.

\n

All published posts and pages from the current Top 100 site are being carried across, and I’ve also recovered the original author information from the old WordPress archive. That means articles written by other managers will continue to be credited to the people who actually wrote them, rather than everything appearing under my name.

\n

That matters to me. Top 100 has never just been “my website”. A huge part of its history has been written by the managers themselves.

\n

There’s already an early preview of the migrated site at:

\n

smtop100.micro.blog

\n

Don’t judge the furniture yet. The content is there, but the design is still basically the packing boxes stage.

\n

The eventual move will keep smtop100.blog as the main address, so once everything is ready the change should be much less dramatic from the outside than the work going on underneath.

\n

The bigger reason for doing this is that I want the website to become easier for managers to contribute to again.

\n

We’re building a new Top 100 Publishing Desk where managers will be able to write an article, save a draft, add images and submit it directly. Most submissions will then get a light editorial tidy-up and go straight onto the site, with the original manager clearly credited.

\n

In other words: less WordPress faff, more Top 100.

\n

There’s still some work to do before the switch, particularly around the design, navigation and making sure old links behave properly, but the important part is already done: the archive has survived, the images have survived, and the people who wrote it have their names back.

\n

More soon.

\n

— David
\nTop 100 Admin

\n", "summary": "The Top 100 website is transitioning from WordPress to Micro.blog, preserving its history while simplifying the contribution process for managers.", "date_published": "2026-09-09T23:10:42+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/09/09/top-has-moved/", "tags": ["Admin"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/07/23/introducing-the-youth-cup-tournament/", "title": "Introducing the Youth Cup Tournament App", "content_html": "\n
\n

The Top 100 Youth Cup now has its own dedicated tournament website:

\n
\n

Visit the new Youth Cup app

\n
\n

What began as an attempt to make the Youth Cup easier to organise has grown into something much more ambitious: a complete tournament platform for managers, organisers and spectators.

\n

The new app brings fixtures, results, tables, knockout draws, rankings, disciplinary records and tournament history together in one place — while also giving every participating manager their own private portal.

\n

And although it has launched with the Youth Cup, the longer-term plan is for it to become the home of future Top 100 competitions too.

\n

\"\"

\n

A Dedicated Manager Portal

\n

Every participating manager can now log in through the new “Manager Portal”.

\n

From there, managers can see the matches they are responsible for arranging, submit fixture details, report results and keep track of their tournament commitments without having to search through WhatsApp messages or spreadsheets.

\n

The portal is designed to make it immediately obvious:

\n\n

This should make the Youth Cup much easier to run while reducing missed fixtures, duplicated messages and administrative detective work.

\n

\"\"

\n

\"\"

\n

Tournament Summary

\n

The “Tournament Summary” gives a quick overview of the current competition.

\n

It brings together the key tournament numbers, including the number of participating teams, matches played, goals scored and the progress of the competition.

\n

It is the quickest way to see where the tournament currently stands without having to navigate through every group and round.

\n

\"\"

\n

Featured Matches

\n

The “Featured Matches” section highlights some of the biggest or most interesting upcoming fixtures.

\n

These might include heavyweight group matches, qualification deciders, knockout ties or matches with particular significance to the competition.

\n

The aim is to make the tournament feel like an event rather than simply a list of results.

\n

Featured matches can also be supported by previews, manager comments and press conference quotes.

\n

\"\"

\n

Winners and Tournament Archive

\n

The “Winners section” celebrates the clubs and managers who have won the Youth Cup and Youth Shield.

\n

Past competitions can also be accessed through the tournament archive, creating a permanent historical record rather than allowing each season’s results to disappear into old posts, spreadsheets or Challonge brackets.

\n

Over time, the archive will include:

\n\n

\"\"

\n

\"\"

\n

Group Tables

\n

The “Groups section” contains every group table, fixture and result.

\n

Tables update automatically as results are entered, including points, goal difference, goals scored and qualification positions.

\n

This removes the need to calculate tables manually and makes it much easier for managers to understand exactly what they need from their remaining matches.

\n

\"\"

\n

\"\"

\n

Knockout Fixtures

\n

Once the group stage is complete, the “Knockout section” follows the competition through every round of the Youth Cup and Youth Shield.

\n

Fixtures, aggregate scores and qualification status can all be viewed from the same page.

\n

The app is also being built to support different knockout formats, including:

\n\n

That gives us much more flexibility when designing future tournaments.

\n

There are no knockout fixtures to show, yet, of course - let’s just hope it all works when the time comes, haha!

\n

Tournament Rankings

\n

The “Rankings section” compares every participating team across the tournament.

\n

Rather than only showing who remains in the competition, the rankings provide a complete picture of performance based on group results and knockout progress.

\n

This means teams can still compete for the highest possible final ranking even after elimination — and it gives us a useful way to compare performances across different groups.

\n

The rankings can also help shape future tournament seedings.

\n

\"\"

\n

Fair Play

\n

The “Fair Play section” records forfeits, unplayed matches and other tournament compliance issues.

\n

This is not intended simply as a wall of shame. It gives managers a transparent record of whether fixtures were completed properly and allows tournament decisions to be applied consistently.

\n

It will also make it easier to determine eligibility for future prize draws, awards or tournament invitations.

\n

Over time, the fair-play system could develop into a broader manager reliability record, recognising the managers who consistently arrange and complete their matches on time.

\n

\"\"

\n

Full Tournament Brackets

\n

The “Brackets section” provides a visual overview of the knockout competition.

\n

Managers can follow the route from the opening round to the final, see which teams could meet in later rounds and track both the Youth Cup and Youth Shield without leaving the site.

\n

This replaces the need to rely on a separate external bracket service and means the complete tournament can now be managed and archived within the Top 100 platform.

\n

Brackets will appear, as if by magic, when the group stage finishes, similar to the archived Challonge S27 Youth Cup above.

\n

Press Conferences

\n

One of the more entertaining additions is the introduction of tournament press conferences.

\n

Managers can provide comments before or after matches, respond to questions, make predictions, praise their players, complain about referees, put pressure on their opponents or deliver the usual carefully rehearsed football clichés.

\n

Selected quotes can then appear alongside featured matches and tournament coverage.

\n

It gives managers another way to become involved in the competition and should help create some stories, rivalries and personality around the matches.

\n

\"\"

\n

\"\"

\n

Built for More Than the Youth Cup

\n

The Youth Cup is the first competition to use the new platform, but the underlying system is being designed to support a range of different Top 100 tournaments.

\n

Future plans include hosting:

\n\n

Different tournaments will be able to use different numbers of teams, group formats, knockout structures, seeding systems and fixture rules.

\n

The aim is not to build a single Youth Cup page. It is to create a reusable Top 100 tournament platform.

\n

Tournament Registration

\n

A future registration system will allow managers to enter upcoming competitions directly through the site.

\n

Managers will be able to register their team and receive confirmation once they have been accepted.

\n

Tournament organisers will then be able to review entries, remove duplicates and everyone will be able to see the list of participants before and after registrations close.

\n

\"\"

\n

More Features Planned

\n

Other ideas being considered include:

\n\n

A Better Way to Run Top 100 Tournaments

\n

The Youth Cup has always relied heavily on managers volunteering their time, arranging matches and reporting results.

\n

The new app will not eliminate every missed deadline, forgotten fixture or confused manager. That would require considerably more advanced technology such as Top 100 AI-powered microchip implants.

\n

But it should make the tournament clearer, easier to follow and much less labour-intensive to administer.

\n

More importantly, it gives Top 100 tournaments a permanent home of their own.

\n

Take a look around:

\n
\n

Explore the Youth Cup app

\n
\n

And managers taking part can access their fixtures and tournament tasks here:

\n
\n

Open the Manager Portal

\n
\n
\n\n\n
\n\n\n

If you would like to support the ongoing maintenance costs, and all the new development of the Top 100 website and app ecosystem, please consider donating.

\n\n\n

You can give anything from a one-off £1 donation or set up a regular amount via Stripe.

\n\n\n

If you don't want to, or can't afford to, that's also fine.

\n\n", "date_published": "2026-07-23T10:08:15+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/07/23/introducing-the-youth-cup-tournament/", "tags": ["Admin"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/07/01/world-club-cup-s/", "title": "WORLD CLUB CUP S28", "content_html": "\n

The countdown is over. A new World Club Cup season is on the horizon, and the road to the trophy has never looked more demanding.

\n\n\n

Before the action begins, the spotlight remains on last season's champions Leicester and their manager Ash. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation as fans look forward to seeing how the team will build upon their incredible success from the previous season.

\n\n\n

This season, we keep the same approach as last season, focusing on the World Club Cup as our primary competition. The format implemented has proven to be effective and smooth, allowing teams to face off under favorable conditions. Managers can organize their matches without encountering any significant logistical issues, which is crucial in maintaining the teams' competitive spirit and performance levels.

\n\n\n

The objective is clear: fewer scheduling conflicts, which have plagued teams in the past, will lead to greater intensity in every match played. The league has carefully crafted a schedule that maximizes the excitement of the tournament while minimizing the risk of fatigue or injury among players. This relentless path toward the title means that every match counts, placing considerable pressure on all teams involved to consistently perform at their best. By fostering a competitive environment, fans can expect thrilling moments and intense rivalries to unfold throughout the season. The stakes have never been higher, and as the teams prepare to take the field, the excitement builds for what promises to be an unforgettable season.

\n\n\n

DRAW COMPLETE – SURVIVAL FROM DAY ONE

\n\n\n

The draw has been finalized, producing a full knockout bracket where there will be no second chances.

\n\n\n

From the opening round, every match carries elimination stakes. Every tie will be played over two legs, placing a premium on consistency, squad management, and tactical discipline.

\n\n\n

With 100 clubs participating, several teams have received automatic passage through Round 1. Tournament officials emphasized that these byes were assigned purely through random draw and are necessary to maintain bracket balance.

\n\n\n

The competition officially kicks off on Wednesday, July 15th, when the first battles of the new campaign get underway.

\n\n\n

Tournament Schedule and Bracket:
⚽️🍀🏆https://challonge.com/wvvpws2j🏆🍀⚽️

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

EXTRA TIME RULE REMAINS

\n\n\n

Tournament regulations remain unchanged regarding tied aggregate scores.

\n\n\n

Should teams finish level after two legs, progression will once again be decided through the established Fictional Extra Time system, ensuring every knockout clash produces a winner.

\n\n\n

STRICTER RULES FOR MANAGERS

\n\n\n

Organizers have also announced tougher standards regarding fixture organization following issues experienced during the previous seasons.

\n\n\n

Managers will be expected to take full responsibility for arranging matches and maintaining communication with their opponents.

\n\n\n

Should a fixture remain unplayed, managers must provide evidence that genuine attempts were made to organize the match. Failure to do so could have severe consequences.

\n\n\n

If neither side can demonstrate sufficient effort, both clubs will be eliminated from the competition, while their scheduled next-round opponent will advance automatically.

\n\n\n

The message from tournament officials is unmistakable: professionalism and accountability are now non-negotiable.

\n\n\n

A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS

\n\n\n

The bracket is set. The contenders are ready. The champions have targets on their backs.

\n\n\n

For some clubs, this season offers redemption. For others, it presents an opportunity to build a legacy. For everyone involved, the challenge is the same: survive, advance, and keep the dream alive.

\n\n\n

Same format. Greater pressure. Higher stakes.

\n\n\n

The World Club Cup is back—and the battle for football's ultimate club crown begins now.

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-07-01T13:58:27+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/07/01/world-club-cup-s/", "tags": ["World Club Cup"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/30/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "title": "Season 28 Division 5 Stats and Facts", "content_html": "\n

Santos the clear favourites who will join them.

\n\n\n

Quick note, there were 2 obvious ABDs that I noticed and actioned as they may well have gone through before publication.

\n\n\n

Santos have a top team in most of the important categories of D5 and would be at least playoff contenders in the division above.  Fiorentina have that rare thing in D5 a 90 rated attacker who will strike fear into the heart of the opposition defence.  Palace could achieve great things if they exchange that 86 rated keepers for an 87and gathered up a bit of depth but they are ranked 3rd.

\n\n\n

Celta the first playoff team, attack and midfield are the main strengths Torino a favoured top and tail team a potent 89/89 sandwich perhaps lacking a bit of filling.  If 217.5 is needed to survive D4 then Lazio, Olympiacos, Twente, Fenerbahce and AZ could all push for promotion with little fear of future problems.  Stuttgart continues to be pretty much the worse team in the history of T100 despite the early point which may be few and far between. Spartak also sit adrift of everyone else. Lyon and River Plate at least can see the opposition in the distance.

\n\n\n

Quick hint you don’t need to pick up all the best grains of sand to build the best brick wall worth thinking about. All teams could have 11-12 decent players and then the rest could be whatever you make of it to stay competitive.

\n\n\n

What does the A.I. make of all this? More or less thinks the same. Torino are predicted to finish lower due to lack of depth, AZ are predicted to be closer to the playoff spots due to the balance in the side and strong keeper.

\n\n\n

Giant killers in the cup Lazio or Brugge

\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
 GKDEFMIDATTTop18AveETOTPreA.I.
Santos FC89.088.888.889.085.088.1220.7711
ACF Fiorentina88.088.387.690.086.088.0220.0623
Crystal Palace86.088.089.089.085.087.4219.9732
Celta Vigo87.087.888.288.086.087.4218.7244
Club Brugge KV89.087.887.288.086.087.6218.1655
Torino89.087.387.089.085.087.5218.13610
SS Lazio87.087.088.088.087.087.4218.0876
Olympiacos86.087.088.288.085.086.8217.8887
FC Twente87.087.387.888.084.086.8217.7699
Fenerbahçe SK87.087.087.388.586.087.2217.691011
AZ Alkmaar88.087.886.888.085.087.1217.60118
Villarreal CF87.086.887.088.086.087.0216.961213
PSV87.086.887.089.080.086.0216.891316
Schalke88.087.087.087.085.086.8216.511412
US Sassuolo88.086.587.087.086.086.9216.231514
Atalanta BC87.086.386.887.085.086.4215.631615
Shakhtar Donetsk87.086.086.487.085.086.3215.111717
Girondins Bordeaux85.085.586.487.082.085.2214.111818
Spartak Moskva84.085.086.685.083.084.7212.571919
Stuttgart85.083.382.687.075.082.6208.432020
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-30T15:36:25+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/30/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "tags": ["Season Predictions and Reviews"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/30/new-player-identity-bug-update/", "title": "New Player Identity Bug Update from SM", "content_html": "\n

Everyone who has signed new players in the last few weeks and later discovered their new signings' identities have changed... File bug reports in-game and/or email support@soccermanager.com with details - see official update message below.

\n\n\n

It's a crap solution, imho, but it is what it is at the moment.

\n\n\n

I created a form to collect submissions all in one place - I can submit it all in one go to SM. You will need to submit each player separately.

\n\n\n

[googleapps domain=“docs” dir=“forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdn_XC3JuqevMnVBtstjT7ZmhL-XYjjE017SbPByvOYK8PxPw/viewform” query=“embedded=true” width=“640” height=“1304” /]

\n\n\n
\n

Hi everyone,

\n

We are aware of recent database issues and will be working to reimburse anyone impacted.

\n

There have been a few issues with the player database in recent days and, as a result, we have had to change some newly-added player IDs. This was done as part of the fix, but has led to some unintended consequences. Whilst we are confident the issue will be resolved going forwards, you may have noticed some odd behaviour around transfers involving the players who have had their IDs changed.

\n

If you are impacted by this issue, please reach out to support in-game or through support@soccermanager.com. Please provide details of the player involved, when you made the transfer, and if emailing in, your gameworld ID, when getting in touch. The team will be more than happy to reverse the bugged transfers or refund the amount of in-game cash spent on them.

\n

If you notice any more issues, please drop us a message in Discord bug report channel.

\n

Cheers all,\nDylan

\n
\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-30T12:44:29+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/30/new-player-identity-bug-update/" }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/29/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "title": "Season 28 Division 4 Stats and Facts", "content_html": "\n

Napoli or Valencia which place in sun will be champs.

\n\n\n

Napoli are a cut above any other team in the league, a 90 rated keeper, strongest attack, strongest mid should be game set and match even at this early stage. Valencia perhaps a keeper short of challenging their Italian rivals but they should have the defence to lock out most rivals.  Lokomotive also sit pretty in 3rd spot a mighty midfield perhaps shields a lack of depth in parts of a team but nothing unexpected in D4.  That is obviously the point, in D4 an 86 can’t be classed as a week player and an 88 would be considered a strong one.

\n\n\n

The playoff places should be contended by 4 of 6 teams which the A.I. and I agree on. PSG a decent attack but weaker in goal are favoured over Dynamo who are a similar team with a stronger defence gut weaker attack.  Montpellier are up for the top and tail approach so favoured in lower league with Marseille and Celtic trying the same tactic.  Independiente are a more balanced squad but do they lack a little depth especially if they get to the playoffs where that is more vital.

\n\n\n

You need 219 to survive in division 3 so Partizan should not be discounted if their lack of depth doesn’t hamper them.  Anything less than 218 and you are looking to be served some relegation steak with a side order of sour grapes.  Bremen sits above that cut off.  Kazan looks beyond help at the moment, too weak all round, they will get relegated if nothing is done.  Athletic club really do now need a better keeper to avoid returning to D5.  Lyon are counting on a potent attack out scoring the opposition in high scoring fixtures but this hasn’t gone well so far.  River Plate could just survive. A keeper and defence that is decent for the league with a midfield screen and an ok attack.  Feyenoord even more so than River Plate with Chievo going for the balanced approach. Up for the cup, well Valencia, Dynamo and Marseille should be.

\n\n\n

Only one really noticeable disagreement with the A.I. and that is Dynamo Kyiv, I see them mid table or maybe better with that top and tail combo. The A.I. though prefers the more balanced defensive approach of Newcastle to finish in the top half.

\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
 GKDEFMIDATTTop18AveETOTPreA.I.
SSC Napoli90.088.890.291.085.089.0223.3112
Valencia CF88.090.589.689.087.088.8222.9321
Lokomotiv Moskva88.089.090.288.086.088.2221.4433
Independiente88.088.589.089.086.088.1220.7345
Paris Saint-Germain87.088.888.689.087.088.1220.6156
Dynamo Moskva87.089.388.888.087.088.0220.5264
Montpellier HSC88.087.888.890.085.087.9220.5078
Olympique Marseille88.089.087.889.087.088.2220.2987
Celtic88.087.388.290.085.087.7219.62911
FK Partizan88.087.888.089.084.087.4219.091010
Dynamo Kyiv88.087.087.490.084.087.3218.661115
Newcastle United89.087.388.288.086.087.7218.56129
Beşiktaş JK87.088.087.488.086.087.3218.281312
Bremen88.087.088.488.083.086.9218.041414
Chievo Verona88.087.587.687.086.087.2217.511513
Feyenoord89.087.087.488.084.087.1217.481617
River Plate89.087.087.487.085.087.1216.951716
Olympique Lyonnais86.086.386.689.085.086.6216.651819
Athletic Club85.087.087.687.083.085.9216.391918
Rubin Kazan84.086.586.088.082.085.3215.122020
\n\n\n

\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-29T15:07:17+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/29/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "tags": ["Season Predictions and Reviews"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/28/manutds-pre-season-signings-and/", "title": "MANUTD'S Pre Season Signings And Plans For The Future", "content_html": "\n

Manutd are looking forward to another tough season in division 2. Last season we were predicted to finish 17 and go down but we finished 15th and quite comfortably away from the relegation zone. Signalling a successful season. Since I've came here my plan has been to keep a first team that can compete enough in division 2 but also to bring in players to give us a future aswell. Its been an extremely difficult pre season transfer window as usual in top 100 but we have managed to get some deals done.

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

Yann Sommer : Our biggest signing is Yann Sommer 91 rated. Despite being 37 he's still a top class goalkeeper. Last season one of our weak points was the goalkeeper as we had an 88 rated in goal. Now with Sommer we should have a strong defence. As he has Mendy lb 89, Gabbia cb 89, Bisseck cb 90, Spinazzola rb 89, in front of him. The future is bright as we have young Barcelona highly rated goalkeeper Aron Yaakobishvili. That we hope will replace Sommer in a few seasons.

\n\n\n
\n
\"\"
\n
\n\n\n

Ibrahim Sangare 89: Ibrahim brings more depth to our midfield and options of a good level. He is a proper Cdm and can also support the defence that already looks pretty strong. At 28 aswell he's not old and has many years ahead of him.

\n\n\n

They are the two first teamers brought into the squad. Here are the rest

\n\n\n
\n
\"\"
\n
\n\n\n

Matheus Alves 83: 21 year old Alves can play in cm or cam. In real life he went from Brasil to Russia in January last season. He has settled in very nicely in Russia playing regularly and has scored a few goals and made a few aswell. He will be a key player for us in the youth cup.

\n\n\n
\n
\"\"
\n
\n\n\n

\n\n\n

Gorka Carrera 82: 21 year old striker Carrera scored 15 goals last season for Real Sociadad B. He has been a goal machine at youth level. We were lacking youth in the forward department and we needed something for the future. He will be a key player for us in the youth cup.

\n\n\n
\n
\"\"
\n
\n\n\n

Ben Nelson 78: 22 year old cb Nelson broke into Leicester City's first team last season. Even though Leicester got relegated he stood out and has been linked with moves to Torino and Manutd. And others. We're not sure how this will go its a bit of a wild card move and we will see if it works out or not.

\n\n\n

Ultimately at the moment we are a side trying to stay in division 2. At the same time we're are trying to bring younger talent to the club so we can compete longer term and hopefully one day be back in division 1. That's the aim even if it takes a while to get there.

\n\n\n

good luck to everyone for the new season!

\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-28T16:11:46+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/28/manutds-pre-season-signings-and/" }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/28/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "title": "Season 28 Division 3 Stats and Facts", "content_html": "\n

Too tight to call at the top of D3

\n\n\n

In division 3 unless you inherit a D1 team a compromise has to be made.  So in the block of 9 teams down to Ajax you have every variety and combination of strength and weakness that you could encounter.

\n\n\n

Zenit while well balanced are reliant on a strong attack and must be favoured to overpower most weaker-keeper teams. Liege have the top an tail approach of the strong keeper decent attack in 2nd spot along with some depth. Boca are the one trick pony of super strong attacker, little or no depth. The A.I. chooses to punish this approach seeing them as relegation contenders this year.  Hoffenheim are an evenly balanced team with loads of depth very similar to Monaco who sit just below them

\n\n\n

Sampdoria sacrifice depth for attack , unlike St Etienne who trade in depth for defence.  Last but not least Ajax with a well balanced starting team lacking depth and a strong keeper.

\n\n\n

You would need 221.5 to survive in D2 so other than the top 2 all the rest have plenty to do.

\n\n\n

218.4 was the relegation cut off last season and only two teams sit below that level, though if we consider the quality of the teams promoted to D2 that is not a great shock as the quality in D3 has dropped by around 0.25 pt per starter this season.  Even so only Dnipro who are the eternal survivors and Malaga look sure to drop.  Basel are predicted by both the A.I. and myself to also fall but the A.I. thinks Southampton will survive in 14th replaced by Boca who it predicts will drop.

\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
 GKDEFMIDATTTop18AveETOTPreA.I.
Zenit Saint Petersburg89.088.589.091.086.088.7222.1515
Standard Liège93.088.588.890.087.089.5221.9422
Boca Juniors89.086.587.495.084.088.4221.63319
Monchengladbach88.088.888.690.087.088.5221.3846
Hoffenheim89.089.089.888.087.088.6221.3651
AS Monaco89.088.589.489.087.088.6221.2963
Sampdoria87.088.388.591.085.088.0221.19710
AS Saint-Etienne90.088.589.489.085.088.4221.1784
Ajax87.089.388.290.085.087.9221.1097
AS Roma89.088.388.689.084.087.8220.091011
Liverpool88.088.389.288.086.087.9220.04119
Dinamo Zagreb89.088.388.888.087.088.2219.96128
Lille OSC87.088.388.489.086.087.7219.931312
Swansea City88.088.388.489.085.087.7219.931413
Tottenham Hotspur88.088.388.689.082.087.2219.731515
Sunderland88.087.889.088.083.087.2219.121616
Southampton86.088.388.887.585.087.1219.001714
FC Basel89.087.588.488.086.087.8218.921817
Málaga CF87.088.088.687.084.086.9218.351918
Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk88.086.588.088.086.087.3217.682020
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-28T15:39:25+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/28/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "tags": ["Season Predictions and Reviews"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/27/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "title": "Season 28 Division 2 Stats and Facts", "content_html": "\n

Double bounce for Genoa, stats say so.

\n\n\n

As alluded to last season Genoa have a mighty team in strength and depth. The one weakness is at the back but they still are almost 1.3 pts over the 4th place team meaning promotion at least should be guaranteed. That team are Inter, who go for a midfield approach at the expense of the back line.  Stoke sit at the head of 3 other teams over 224, which if you remember is the cut off for D1 prosperity.  Stoke really are a rounded team and should last the pace with their depth.  Cruzeiro sacrifice some depth for a more attacking line up, expect a strong start to the season and the potential to challenge the top 2 if they stay free of injury and suspension.  Milan makes up the trio very similar all round to Cruzeiro.  Time to introduce the A.I. because our robot overlords disagree with my findings and see Leverkusen as key title contenders perhaps it is their greater defensive prowess that is seen as important.  Flamengo are the last team predicted for the playoffs a very strong front line, but it is hard to ignore WBA who did so well last season and still sport a powerful squad.

\n\n\n

Up for the cup, well beyond those mentioned West Ham and Sevilla seem to have plenty of depth combined with a decent keeper.

\n\n\n

Last season 221 put you in serious relegation danger. This must mean that Galatasaray are in serious trouble, Augsburg may have a good enough attack to overcome their rivals. You really could perm any 2 of Anderlecht. Udinese. Madrid, West Ham, Man Utd or Sevilla. Looking more carefully it is likely that Man Utd will be the wild card, low top 18 but stronger squad. If they get behind early on in the season and get injuries, they would find it hard to progress, conversely a good start and a bit of luck could find them well clear before the relegation battle begins.

\n\n\n

The big A.I. differences are. Atletico Madrid. The A.I. see’s them relegated due to the lack of depth, which I think it is over egging and West Ham it predicts as 7 places higher, maybe their well-rounded team will finish better than expected with the level of depth they have.

\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
 GKDEFMIDATTTop18AveETOTPreA.I.
Genoa CFC88.091.090.092.088.089.8225.7211
Internazionale88.089.890.692.087.089.5225.0824
Stoke City89.090.390.890.088.089.6224.5432
Cruzeiro EC89.090.090.491.086.089.3224.4745
AC Milan89.090.090.291.085.089.0224.1957
Leverkusen89.090.589.890.087.089.3223.8663
CR Flamengo88.089.389.492.087.089.1223.72710
West Bromwich Albion91.090.089.890.087.089.6223.7086
Atlético Madrid90.088.589.892.084.088.9223.32917
SL Benfica89.089.589.491.086.089.0223.27109
Wolfsburg88.089.889.489.086.088.4222.051111
Everton88.089.589.689.086.088.4222.011212
SEVILLA FC89.088.588.691.087.088.8221.951318
Manchester United91.089.389.489.085.088.7221.891413
West Ham United89.089.889.288.088.088.8221.60158
Real Madrid89.089.588.889.086.088.5221.491615
Udinese Calcio89.089.588.889.086.088.5221.491716
RSC Anderlecht89.089.089.888.086.088.4221.241814
Augsburg89.087.587.890.086.088.1219.741919
Galatasaray SK88.087.387.488.586.087.4218.132020
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-27T16:36:49+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/27/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "tags": ["Season Predictions and Reviews"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/27/season-manager-awards-results-revealed/", "title": "Season 27 Manager Awards Results Revealed", "content_html": "\n
\n

The Results Are In

\n

The votes have been counted.

\n

Congratulations to all of our Season 27 Manager of the Season winners, and thanks to everyone who took the time to cast their votes using the new online voting system, which made the whole process smoother than ever before.

\n

This year’s awards recognised not only league champions, but also overachievers, promotion specialists, cup winners and managers who exceeded expectations across every division.

\n

🏆 Season 27 Winners

\n

Overall Manager of the Season

\n

🥇 James McKenzie (Chelsea)

\n

Division 1

\n

🥇 James McKenzie (Chelsea)

\n

Division 2

\n

🥇 Glen Mullan (Espanyol)

\n

Division 3

\n

🥇 Jerod Ramnarine (Galatasaray)

\n

Division 4

\n

🥇 Alessandro Ioli (Ajax)

\n

Division 5

\n

🥇 Wayne Bullough (Athletic Club)

\n

Congratulations also to every runner-up and third-place finisher. The full results remain available in the voting app.

\n
\n\n\n
\n
\"\"
\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n
\"\"
\n
\n\n\n
\n

A new era for the awards

\n

Season 27 also marks the debut of our imoroved Manager Awards app.

\n

Originally built simply to collect votes, it has already evolved into something much bigger: a permanent archive celebrating the achievements of Top 100 managers throughout the history of the gameworld.

\n

Alongside this season’s voting, we’ve added three major new sections.

\n

🏛 Hall of Fame

\n

Every podium finish from every awards ceremony is now preserved in one place.

\n

Browse every category across Seasons 25–27 and instantly see who won gold, silver and bronze each year.

\n

As the seasons roll on, this will become a living history of the Top 100 Awards.

\n

\"\"

\n

👤 Manager Awards Cabinets

\n

Ever wondered how many podium finishes you’ve achieved?

\n

The new Manager Cabinets page lets every manager view their own awards cabinet, including:

\n

Gold, silver and bronze totals

\n

Every podium finish

\n

Vote totals

\n

Winning percentages

\n

It’s a personal honours cabinet for every manager in the game.

\n

\"\"

\n

📊 Awards Records

\n

We’ve also begun tracking all-time awards records.

\n

Current record holders include:

\n

🏆 Most career wins

\n

🥈 Most podium finishes

\n

🔥 Highest winning percentage

\n

⚔ Closest ever vote

\n

As more seasons are added, these records will become increasingly competitive.

\n

\"\"

\n

Looking ahead…

\n

This is only the beginning.

\n

Among the features already being explored are:

\n\n

The aim is simple: to make the Manager Awards not just an annual vote, but a permanent archive celebrating the history of Top 100.

\n

With every new season, the archive becomes richer, rivalries become deeper, and every vote becomes another piece of gameworld history.

\n
\n

The voting app has gone from being a useful tool for collecting votes into a genuine historical archive that managers will want to revisit long after the polls have closed. It complements the predictions, reviews and statistics already on the site, and feels like another step towards documenting the complete history of the Top 100 community.

\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-27T16:08:11+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/27/season-manager-awards-results-revealed/", "tags": ["Manager Awards"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/26/youth-cup-registration/", "title": "Youth Cup Registration", "content_html": "\n

Want to go down in History? Consider yourself a master scouter? Can you build a strong youth XI alongside your first XI? Can your name be uttered in the same breath as multiple Youth Cup winners Dan Payne, Frank Hirst, Alex McLean, Salvatore Zerbo, Doug Earle and Glen Mullan?!

\n\n\n
\n\"\"
\n\n
\"\"
\n\n
\n
\n\n\n

[googleapps domain=\"docs\" dir=\"forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdyX6VIjxs6016LKxvnqbAVfNZcyFXu6qPtV55hg6t3jnbzBQ/viewform\" query=\"embedded=true\" width=\"640\" height=\"1521\" /]

\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-26T14:43:09+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/26/youth-cup-registration/", "tags": ["Admin"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/26/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "title": "Season 28 Division 1 Stats and Facts", "content_html": "\n

Chelsea the highest ranked team just above Porto, is balance the key to all things?

\n\n\n

How it all work. I calculate the average rating in the four main positions, the top 18 and the average. A formula calculates the ETOT which is the ranking each team gets based on each position. If for any reason the lowest ranked top 18 player is much lower than anyone else I adjust that using common sense so as not to skew the results.

\n\n\n

The only thing Chelsea lack is depth. It would be possible for 2 or 3 injuries to break them down sufficiently for others to challenge.  Porto, Barca and Hellas have a strong attacking line but too often the rip each other apart leaving Chelsea unscathed.  Hellas have great depth but an 89 keeper doesn’t cut it in D1.

\n\n\n

Juventus have the top and tail approach of great keeper and attack, a few players of the highest quality in midfield and they could challenge once more.  Leicester joins them in the strongest lead pack again a well balanced

\n\n\n

What about relegation prospects?  Last year under 224 meant a 75% chance of relegation. So there are 4 clear favourites. Espanyol not really built for D1 will struggle at all levels.  Internacional do have a strong keeper and more depth. CSKA did so well last season to stay up but this season it will be even tougher. Man City will be 100% reliant on their tough keeper. Hamburg are the only other team close to 224 but they are now much more balanced and have great depth, this could leave Cologne vulnerable with a few injuries.

\n\n\n

The A.I. has also made its own ranking and it does closely agree with me. Berlin and Arsenal are predicted to swap places but all the others are + or – 1 at most.

\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
 GKDEFMIDATTTop18AveETOTPreA.I.
Chelsea94.093.894.094.082.091.6232.4211
Dortmund93.092.593.495.087.092.2232.0722
FC Porto92.092.893.294.087.091.8231.3433
Barcelona92.092.392.296.085.091.5231.2045
Hellas Verona89.092.092.895.089.091.6230.9554
Juventus95.091.891.693.088.091.9229.0966
Leicester City91.091.093.293.086.090.8229.0578
Levante UD91.092.092.691.085.090.3227.9587
Bayern92.090.891.293.088.091.0227.61910
Sporting CP90.090.592.892.086.090.3227.56109
H. Berlin92.089.890.894.087.090.7227.021113
São Paulo FC91.090.091.492.087.090.3226.281212
Arsenal91.090.891.691.085.089.9226.151311
Aston Villa89.090.390.293.087.089.9225.931414
Cologne92.089.091.492.083.089.5225.121516
Hamburg90.089.591.091.087.089.7224.791615
Manchester City93.088.589.890.085.089.3222.501717
CSKA Moskva90.089.089.089.085.088.4221.251819
SC Internacional91.089.389.288.086.088.7221.201918
RCD Espanyol88.088.089.688.085.087.7220.042020
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-26T12:50:40+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/26/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "tags": ["Season Predictions and Reviews"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/19/vote-for-your-s-manager/", "title": "Vote for your S27 Manager of the Season", "content_html": "\n
\n

The Season 27 Manager of the Season Awards are now open for voting.

\n

As always, every active Top 100 manager gets one vote in each division category, plus an overall Manager of the Season award. Voting is conducted through our dedicated online voting app, with results counted automatically and published when voting closes.

\n

🗳 Vote Now\n

\n

[login using your manager name in game.]

\n

This season’s shortlist contains a mixture of champions, cup winners, promotion heroes and managers who defied expectations to achieve far more than the numbers suggested they should.

\n

Overall Manager of the Season

\n

The headline award features six managers with strong claims to have produced the outstanding achievement of Season 27.

\n

James Mckenzie (Chelsea) claimed his sixth Division 1 title and first since Season 21, moving to within two championships of brother Scott’s all-time record of eight.

\n

Ash L (Leicester City) followed last season’s best-ever second-place finish under Doug Earle by guiding Leicester to third place in Division 1 while completing an impressive SMFA Cup and World Club Cup double.

\n

Glen Mullan (Espanyol) produced one of the stories of the season. Predicted by many to struggle, Espanyol secured promotion from Division 2 while also winning a second successive Youth Cup.

\n

Chris Meida (CSKA Moskva) completed another remarkable chapter in his club’s rise, keeping CSKA in Division 1 after achieving back-to-back promotions.

\n

Alessandro Ioli (Ajax) won Division 4 and finished top of the Positional Value Added (PVA) rankings.

\n

Marc Ques (Rubin Kazan) achieved something rarely seen in Top 100 history, securing a third successive promotion.

\n

Division 1

\n

James Mckenzie (Chelsea) – Champions once again and winners of a sixth Division 1 title.

\n

Chris Meida (CSKA Moskva) – Survival against the odds following two successive promotions.

\n

Ash L (Leicester City) – SMFA Cup and World Club Cup winner while maintaining Leicester’s place among the elite.

\n

Bojan H (Bayern München) – Cup winners and the manager’s third major cup triumph, his first since Season 17.

\n

📊 Division 1 Stats, Facts & PVA Table

\n

Division 2

\n

Heath Brown (Arsenal) – Division 2 champions.

\n

Glen Mullan (Espanyol) – Promotion and a second consecutive Youth Cup triumph after being tipped for relegation.

\n

Gursimran Brar (1. FC Köln) – Playoff winners and promotion achievers.

\n

Andrew Kelly (Stoke City) – Shield winners and playoff finalists.

\n

📊 Division 2 Stats, Facts & PVA Table

\n

Division 3

\n

⍟Greg Bilboaツ (West Bromwich Albion) – Division 3 champions.

\n

Jerod Ramnarine (Galatasaray) – Predicted for relegation by some observers but instead won promotion through the playoffs and finished top of the division’s PVA table.

\n

📊 Division 3 Stats, Facts & PVA Table

\n

Division 4

\n

Alessandro Ioli (Ajax) – Champions and PVA table leader.

\n

Jay Jones (AS Monaco) – Playoff winners and now a remarkable four-time playoff final winner.

\n

Bruno Neto^^ (Olympique Lyonnais) – Expected by many to struggle but guided Lyon to an impressive eighth-place finish.

\n

📊 Division 4 Stats, Facts & PVA Table

\n

Division 5

\n

Tonian McGoogan (Valencia CF) – Division 5 champions.

\n

Wayne Bullough (Athletic Club) – Runners-up and leaders of the division’s PVA table.

\n

Marc Ques (Rubin Kazan) – Playoff winners and winners of a third successive promotion campaign.

\n

📊 Division 5 Stats, Facts & PVA Table

\n

Good luck to all nominees, and thank you to every manager who took part in another memorable season.

\n

Voting is now open.

\n

🗳 Cast Your Votes Here\n

\n

[login using your manager name in game.]

\n
\n\n\n

\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-19T20:12:08+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/19/vote-for-your-s-manager/", "tags": ["Manager Awards"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/19/the-entertainers/", "title": "The Entertainers", "content_html": "\n
\n

Goals Galore for Der Dino Fans

\n

Twelfth place, close to £50m transfer profit, and goals at both ends all season long. In Season 27 Hamburg didn’t just consolidate in Division 1 — we entertained.

\n
\n

Season 27 saw Hamburg consolidate our place in Division 1 with a significant improvement across the board.

\n

After surviving by the skin of our teeth in S26, the objective was simple: tighten up defensively without sacrificing the attacking football that had made us entertaining, if occasionally terrifying to support.

\n

By the end of the season, we’d achieved exactly that.

\n
\n

Last Season

\n

In S26 we finished 15th, thanks largely to Dinamo Zagreb failing to win on the final day.\nThe numbers were ugly.

\n

We scored a respectable 63 goals but conceded 85 — the worst defensive record in Division 1. Only bottom club Arsenal lost more matches than Hamburg.

\n

A team capable of scoring against anyone could also concede against anyone.

\n

Usually several.

\n
\n

The Plan: Tighten Up at the Back, Keep Firing up Front

\n

A few tactical tweaks produced an encouraging start.

\n

After six matches we found ourselves sitting 5th in Division 1 and dreaming of qualifying for SMFA football.

\n

That proved slightly optimistic.

\n

The season settled into something more familiar, and at various points we found ourselves looking nervously over our shoulder rather than up the table.

\n

Still, unlike the previous campaign, we never truly looked doomed.

\n

The attack remained dangerous and, crucially, the defence became just competent enough.

\n

Which, by Hamburg standards, felt revolutionary.

\n
\n

Improving the Defence

\n

Much of the work was done in the transfer market towards the end of the season.

\n

Iñigo Martínez arrived from Valencia as part of the deal that sent Marc Guiu to Spain, while Stefan de Vrij joined from Anderlecht in exchange for Mario Pašalić.

\n

De Vrij duly dropped to 90, but both he and Martínez add valuable experience and depth. Remarkably, they’re also younger than Nicolás Otamendi, whom they effectively replace in the squad hierarchy.

\n

Adam Marušić arrived from Espanyol’s so-called “youth” setup to provide cover on both flanks. Expensive perhaps, considering Jordan James headed the other way, but versatility has value.

\n

Marušić joins José Gayá, Nelson Semedo, Juan Jesus, Joe Rodon and Thomas Partey in what now looks like a far deeper defensive unit than the one that started S27.

\n

Indeed, during the final weeks of the season, with survival largely secured, we began experimenting with more conservative approaches against stronger opponents.

\n

The results were encouraging.

\n

We no longer conceded goals like a Trump peace deal, and we even picked up points in fixtures where a high-scoring defeat might previously have felt inevitable.

\n
\n

The Marquee Signing: Enter KDB

\n
\n

\"\"

\n
\n

The biggest move of all was the arrival of Kevin De Bruyne.

\n

The Belgian legend joined from Anderlecht as part of the Otamendi/de Arrascaeta deal and instantly became the highest-rated player at the club.

\n

The club shop was particularly delighted.

\n

Ever since Kevin Macedo was sold, staff had been complaining about a warehouse full of unsold “Kevin” merchandise. Fortunately, De Bruyne should help shift a few shirts.

\n

On the pitch, his arrival opens up new tactical possibilities. The familiar 4-2-3-1 remains available, but a 4-3-3 built around Casemiro, De Bruyne and young Kees Smit in midfield suddenly looks very appealing.

\n
\n

In the Black

\n

For perhaps the first time in Hamburg history, I checked the transfer ledger and discovered something extraordinary:

\n

We made a profit.

\n

Hamburg spent £145.9m and received £194.2m, generating a positive balance of almost £50m.

\n

That may not sound exciting, but with facilities now draining money every week, it’s no small achievement.

\n

The accountants were delighted.

\n

The supporters remain unconvinced that balancing the books counts as entertainment.

\n
\n

What the Numbers Say

\n

The improvement was real.

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
MetricS26S27Change
Goals Scored6372+9
Goals Conceded8577−8
Goal Difference−22−5+17
Points3750+13
Position15th12th+3
\n

A +17 goal-difference swing translated directly into 13 additional points.

\n

The attack improved. The defence improved. The table improved.

\n

Most importantly, the Volksparkstadion became a genuine advantage. Hamburg finished with an 11-3-5 home record, collecting 36 of their 50 points in front of their own supporters.

\n

Away from home we remained considerably less convincing, recording just 3 wins from 19 matches.

\n

The contrast was stark.

\n

At home we looked like European contenders.

\n

Away we looked more like a team hoping the sat-nav would eventually guide us back to Hamburg.

\n
\n

The Entertainers

\n

Despite the defensive improvements, Hamburg remained the division’s premier box-office act — and this time the numbers prove it.

\n

Our 38 matches produced 149 goals — 72 scored, 77 conceded — more than any other side in Division 1. That’s 3.92 goals a game, comfortably the highest in the league. By contrast, champions Chelsea kept things far more controlled at 3.55, while São Paulo’s matches limped along at just 2.58.

\n

The Volksparkstadion was the epicentre. Our 19 home games alone served up 78 goals — 4.11 a game, again the highest home figure in the division.

\n

We scored four against champions Chelsea.

\n

Unfortunately, they scored nine.

\n

That fixture alone probably explains the entire season.

\n

Even on the road we weren’t parking the bus so much as driving it into a fireworks factory: our away matches still averaged 3.74 goals. Only Dortmund (4.21 away, the lunatics) caused more chaos on their travels.

\n
\n

Player of the Season: Mason Greenwood

\n
\n

\"\"

\n
\n

If one player embodied Hamburg’s season, it was Mason Greenwood.

\n

The winger finished with 11 goals, 21 assists, 4 Man of the Match awards and a 7.70 average rating — 32 goal contributions in all.

\n

His 21 assists ranked 7th in Division 1, placing him alongside the league’s elite creators. Only six players registered more.

\n

Combined with Leroy Sané’s 15 goal contributions from the opposite flank, Hamburg possessed one of the division’s most productive wide partnerships.

\n

When Greenwood played well, Hamburg generally played well. When Greenwood played brilliantly, opponents usually regretted it.

\n
\n

Captain Fantastic

\n
\n

\"\"

\n
\n

The strangest statistic of the season belongs to Casemiro.

\n

The Brazilian defensive midfielder somehow finished with 12 league goals.

\n

Not twelve goal contributions. Twelve goals.

\n

That was more than Greenwood. More than Sané. More than Ekitiké.

\n

For a player whose job description begins with the word “defensive”, it was an extraordinary contribution. Whether we can rely on another twelve-goal haul from a 34-year-old holding midfielder remains to be seen — but for S27, it was a huge factor in our improvement.

\n
\n

Predicted 15th. Finished 12th.

\n

Pre-season projections based on squad strength weren’t particularly optimistic. The model ranked Hamburg 15th for expected finish.

\n

We ended up 12th.

\n

Not enough to trouble the European places. Not enough to make headlines. But comfortably clear of relegation danger and three places above prediction.

\n

For a club that spent much of S26 staring into the abyss, that’s meaningful progress.

\n
\n

Looking Ahead to Season 28

\n

A year of trading up leaves us with a noticeably stronger spine. This is how the first team shapes up — and how far it’s come in twelve months:

\n

First Team Starting XIs

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
PositionSeason 27 (4-2-3-1)RatSeason 28 (4-3-3)Rat
GKBounou90Bounou90
RBPartey90Semedo89
CBOtamendi90I. Martínez91
CBOrbán90Orbán90
LBGayá89Gayá89
DMCasemiro90Casemiro90
CMPašalić90Smit86
CM / AMde Arrascaeta91De Bruyne93
RWSané92Sané92
LWGreenwood91Greenwood91
CFEkitiké91Ekitiké91
\n

De Bruyne inherits the creative reins, while the de Arrascaeta-shaped hole in the 4-2-3-1 becomes a third midfield berth in the 4-3-3 — and it’s Kees Smit who gets the nod as part of his development.

\n

Partey may have taken a -2 in the latest review, down to 88, but his versatility remains invaluable — priceless cover across defensive midfield and right-back.

\n

And against the division’s stronger sides, we’ll return to the 5-2-3 low block that served us so well late in S27: de Vrij steps in as a third, ball-playing central defender, De Bruyne drops alongside Casemiro, and Smit makes way for the night.

\n

Behind them, de Vrij, Juan Jesus, Rodon, Marušić and others provide far more depth than we enjoyed a year ago. The challenge now is finding minutes for the next generation — Kees Smit, Bruno Bidon, Alessandro Marcandalli, Joane Gadou and several academy prospects will all be hoping to force their way into first-team thinking in the coming seasons.

\n
\n

The Future

\n

The Youth Cup campaign ended with a heavy Round 2 defeat to eventual finalists Genoa.

\n

That’s probably about where we are right now.

\n

But beneath the first team there are reasons for optimism — and a fair bit of cold, hard cash. The academy did its bit for that record profit: last season’s youth front line was almost entirely cashed in, which rather shows in the drop-off up top.

\n

Youth Starting XIs

\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
PositionSeason 27RatSeason 28Rat
GKBrady80Whatmuff70
RBMimović80Mimović80
LBEspinosa80Espinosa80
CBGadou78Gadou83
CBSimpson-Pusey78Simpson-Pusey80
DMSmit82Huguinho73
CMBidon85Smit86
AMJames83Bidon85
RWRomero82R. Messi78
LWMonsalve82D. Rodríguez76
CFGuiu82Assomo65
\n

New-player-lottery arrivals Mba, Assomo, Quintero and Mayans add bodies to the pool, while Lucas Herrington, Huguinho and Rayane Messi will be looking to build on early promise.

\n

And for the first time in a while, Hamburg head into a new season not simply hoping to survive.

\n

We’re hoping to improve.

\n

That feels like progress.

\n
\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-19T16:41:20+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/19/the-entertainers/", "tags": ["Hamburger"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/18/bayern-munich-unveils-threetier-squad/", "title": "Bayern Munich Unveils Three-Tier Squad Structure: First Team, Cup Specialists and Rising Stars Ready for New Era", "content_html": "\n

Munich – Bayern Munich appear set to enter a new season (S28) with a carefully balanced squad structure that combines world-class experience, squad depth, and an exciting generation of young prospects. Based on the latest squad layouts, the Bavarian giants have assembled three distinct groups: a powerful first team designed to challenge for major honors, a competitive cup team capable of rotating without sacrificing quality, and a highly talented youth side that could shape the club's future for years to come.

\n\n\n

With proven internationals, emerging stars, and academy prospects all playing key roles, Bayern's depth may be one of the strongest foundations the club has possessed in recent seasons.

\n\n\n

First Team Built to Compete for Every Trophy

\n\n\n

The projected first-choice XI features a blend of elite experience and technical quality across every area of the pitch.

\n\n\n

Starting XI

\n\n\n

Goalkeeper: Oblak

\n\n\n

Defenders: Ryerson, Rudiger, Van Hecke, Hancko

\n\n\n

Midfield: Onana, Neves, De Ketelaere

\n\n\n

Attack: Antony, Lewandowski, Doku

\n\n\n

At the heart of the side stands veteran striker Robert Lewandowski, whose return to a leading role would instantly provide Bayern with one of the most feared goalscorers in world football. His movement, finishing, and leadership remain invaluable assets, particularly in decisive League fixtures.

\n\n\n

Supporting him are two explosive wingers in Jérémy Doku and Antony. Doku's direct dribbling and pace give Bayern a dangerous weapon on the left flank, while Antony's creativity and technical ability offer balance on the right. Together they provide the width and attacking unpredictability modern football demands.

\n\n\n

Behind the front three, Bayern's midfield combines intelligence and athleticism. João Neves acts as the technical conductor, controlling possession and dictating tempo. Charles De Ketelaere brings creativity between the lines and can contribute both goals and assists, while Amadou Onana—deployed in a midfield role according to the lineup—adds physicality, ball-winning ability, and a commanding presence in central areas.

\n\n\n

Defensively, Bayern look particularly formidable. David Hancko and Jan Paul van Hecke provide composure and ball-playing quality, while Antonio Rudiger delivers experience, aggression, and leadership. Julian Ryerson offers versatility and work rate from the right side.

\n\n\n

The final piece is Jan Oblak, one of Europe's most respected goalkeepers. His positioning, reflexes, and calmness under pressure provide the security every title-winning side requires.

\n\n\n

A Team Built Around Balance

\n\n\n

What stands out most is the balance throughout the lineup. Bayern possess:

\n\n\n\n\n\n

The combination suggests a team capable of dominating possession while also thriving in transition against the world’s strongest opponents.

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

Cup Team Provides Exceptional Depth

\n\n\n

Modern football demands more than a strong starting eleven. Successful clubs require quality rotation options capable of maintaining standards throughout domestic and world campaigns.

\n\n\n

Bayern's cup team appears designed precisely for that purpose.

\n\n\n

Cup XI

\n\n\n

Goalkeeper: Oblak

\n\n\n

Defenders: Williams, Mourinho, Araujo, Kouassi

\n\n\n

Midfield: Jauregizar

\n\n\n

Attacking Midfield: Mayulu, El Khannouss

\n\n\n

Attack: Sarr, Mikautadze, Ngumoha

\n\n\n

While often labeled a \"second team,\" this lineup contains enough quality to challenge most opponents on its own.

\n\n\n

Mikautadze Leads the Attack

\n\n\n

At the center of the attack stands Georges Mikautadze, whose intelligent movement and finishing instincts make him a dangerous option whenever called upon. His presence ensures Bayern can rotate Lewandowski without significantly weakening their attacking threat.

\n\n\n

On the wings, Ngumoha and Sarr bring energy, speed, and direct attacking play. Both players appear well suited to domestic cup competitions where Bayern frequently face opponents defending deep.

\n\n\n

Creative Midfield Options

\n\n\n

Perhaps the most intriguing figures in the cup side are El Khannouss and Mayulu. Both players possess the technical ability and creativity to unlock defenses while also representing Bayern's commitment to developing younger talent.

\n\n\n

Behind them sits Jauregizar, tasked with controlling midfield battles and linking defense with attack.

\n\n\n

Defensive Stability

\n\n\n

The defensive line combines youth and potential.

\n\n\n

Kouassi brings physical strength and recovery speed, while Araujo, Mourinho, and Williams provide additional depth and flexibility across multiple defensive positions.

\n\n\n

The structure ensures Bayern can rotate heavily during congested periods without sacrificing competitiveness.

\n\n\n

Importance Across a Long Season

\n\n\n

The value of such a squad should not be underestimated.

\n\n\n

With league, cup competitions, SMFA, and international commitments creating intense fixture congestion, Bayern's cup side may prove crucial in maintaining freshness among first-team regulars.

\n\n\n

Rather than merely serving as backups, these players could become key contributors over the course of a demanding campaign.

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

Youth Team Represents the Future of Bayern

\n\n\n

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of Bayern's squad planning is the emerging generation showcased in the youth lineup.

\n\n\n

Youth XI

\n\n\n

Goalkeeper: Seimen

\n\n\n

Defenders: Banjaqui, Coulibaly, Alleyne, Cocchi

\n\n\n

Midfield: Neves

\n\n\n

Attacking Midfield: Mayulu, Arizala

\n\n\n

Attack: Ndjantou, Carlos Espi, Ngumoha

\n\n\n

This squad is filled with prospects who could eventually challenge for senior roles.

\n\n\n

Carlos Espi Leads a Promising Generation

\n\n\n

Leading the line is Carlos Espi, a striker viewed as one of the standout talents within the youth setup. His role at the top of the formation reflects Bayern's belief in his goalscoring potential.

\n\n\n

Alongside him are Ngumoha and Ndjantou, two exciting wide players whose athleticism and attacking instincts make them players to watch.

\n\n\n

Midfield Talent Pipeline

\n\n\n

The midfield trio highlights Bayern's long-standing philosophy of developing technically gifted players.

\n\n\n

Mayulu, Arizala, and Neves form a creative and energetic unit capable of controlling matches while continuing their development in a competitive environment.

\n\n\n

Their ability to progress the ball and create opportunities could eventually earn them opportunities with the senior squad.

\n\n\n

Defensive Prospects Emerging

\n\n\n

At the back, Cocchi, Alleyne, Coulibaly, and Banjaqui represent the next generation of defenders aiming to follow the pathway established by previous Bayern academy graduates.

\n\n\n

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Seimen occupies perhaps the most demanding position on the field. His inclusion as the youth team's first-choice goalkeeper suggests the club views him as a player with significant long-term potential.

\n\n\n

Rabbaj, Camarda, Jangéal, Ndiaye, Azizi, JJ Gabriel, Ndukwe, Ouazane, and many others are waiting behind for their chance.

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

Clear Development Pathway

\n\n\n

One of the most encouraging aspects of Bayern's structure is the visible pathway between the three squads.

\n\n\n

Several players appear positioned between youth and senior football, allowing the club to gradually introduce talent rather than forcing immediate promotion.

\n\n\n

The progression is clear:

\n\n\n

Youth Team → Cup Team → First Team

\n\n\n

Players such as Mayulu, Ngumoha, El Khannouss, Jauregizar, and others could realistically move between levels depending on form, injuries, and tactical requirements.

\n\n\n

This system not only strengthens Bayern's depth but also ensures promising youngsters receive meaningful opportunities without excessive pressure.

\n\n\n

Bayern's Long-Term Vision Taking Shape

\n\n\n

The three-team structure demonstrates a club thinking beyond immediate success.

\n\n\n

The first team is built to compete for major trophies today. The cup team provides reliable depth and rotation options. The youth team ensures Bayern's future remains secure.

\n\n\n

By combining established stars such as Lewandowski, Rudiger, Oblak, Doku and Antony with emerging talents like Neves, De Ketelaere, Mikautadze, Mayulu, Ngumoha, JJ Gabriel and Carlos Espi, Bayern appear to have created a squad capable of balancing present ambitions with future development.

\n\n\n

If these groups develop as expected, Bayern Munich could possess one of the deepest and most sustainable squad structures in Top100—one capable of challenging for league titles, domestic cups, and SMFA glory while continuing to produce the next generation of stars from within.

\n\n\n

\"Mia san mia\"

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-18T13:18:39+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/18/bayern-munich-unveils-threetier-squad/", "tags": ["Team News","Bayern"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/15/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "title": "Season 27 Division 5 Stats and Facts review.", "content_html": "\n

Bilboko Athletic Kluba estatistikaren txapelduna.

\n\n\n

In honour of my wife and kids basque heritage, indeed Athletic club were the champions of the stats. +11 VA and +6 PVA leading to automatic promotion as part of a long term project.  They are narrowly ahead of Kazan and PSV on +7 and +8 VA , the two playoff finalists (sounds familiar over achieving teams triumphing in the playoff while underachieving higher rank teams fail ).

\n\n\n

Valencia were the hot favourites all year and can relax into D4 life knowing they are more than likely to go up again.  Big positive scores go to Shaktar on +5 and Bordeaux on +6 VA showing that managerial skill plays an important part still.

\n\n\n

No relegation of course so who stats wise did the worse.  Brugge hold that record with -10 VA, they should have been playoff bound but narrowly avoided the sack race. Celta did little better with -7VA, Olympiacos and Spartak also did worse than expected.

\n\n\n

3 of the lowest 4 landed where they should with 5th worse team Sassuolo joining them.

\n\n\n

A middle level of variaion in D5 , I out did the A.I. again by around 4 pts total.  Once again the A.I. slipped up more predicting under performing teams.

\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
 GKDEFMIDATTTop18AveETOTPreFinVAPVA
Athletic Club85.086.588.287.083.085.9216.47132116.00
Rubin Kazan86.086.587.888.082.086.1216.8012571.60
PSV87.087.386.287.083.086.1215.7115781.29
Valencia CF89.088.589.888.087.088.5220.961101.00
Shakhtar Donetsk86.086.386.488.085.086.3215.8414950.67
Girondins Bordeaux86.085.087.087.084.085.8214.55191360.54
Villarreal CF87.086.887.688.086.087.1217.4410820.38
Atalanta BC87.086.087.087.086.086.6215.71171700.06
Stuttgart85.083.384.485.078.083.1208.93202000.05
Olympique Marseille88.089.387.889.087.088.2220.4923-10.00
AZ Alkmaar88.088.888.688.085.087.7219.8434-10.00
Santos FC88.088.587.889.085.087.7219.6556-10.00
SS Lazio87.086.887.288.086.087.0217.161112-10.00
FC Twente85.086.086.888.080.085.2215.241819-10.00
US Sassuolo88.086.586.887.083.086.3215.711618-2-0.06
Torino88.087.887.889.085.087.5219.05710-3-0.20
Spartak Moskva89.087.887.887.085.087.3217.87915-6-0.33
Olympiacos88.087.088.488.085.087.3218.28814-6-0.36
Celta Vigo87.088.388.289.086.087.7219.77411-7-0.55
Club Brugge KV88.087.587.890.085.087.7219.50616-10-0.56
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-15T11:51:56+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/15/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "tags": ["Season Predictions and Reviews"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/14/140558/", "title": "Season 27 Division 4 Stats and Facts review.", "content_html": "\n

Ajax win the league and the stats.

\n\n\n

+5VA pushed the Ajax team from playoff team to champions. A great performance from Moenchengladbach saw them come in 3rd with a +8VA, in the stats they just lead the other promoted team Liverpool who on +2 VA came 2nd in the league. Highest VA goes to Lyon on +10 , they just missed out on the playoff spots.  Big shouts outs to Bremen on +8 VA who climbed well safe of relegation, +6 Chievo who came 20th.

\n\n\n

In a similar way to D3 two of the most underperforming teams Napoli and Celtic on -4VA and -6VA got into the playoff but were dumped out by Lokomotiv and Liverpool in the Semi-finals. Palace on -11VA were rightly relegated , isn’t hard to look beyond the keeper with them as 87 rated keepers are freely available.  Fenerbache will also be disappointed to be relegated on -6 VA where as Dynamo Moscow must count themselves lucky to avoid it.

\n\n\n

Overall a middling level of variation +/- 4 per team, I again did slightly better than the A.I.  The A.I. correctly worked out Palace would finish much lower than I thought but did less well on the majority of the lower ranked teams, which does seem to be a theme.

\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
 GKDEFMIDATTTop18AveETOTPreFinVAPVA
Ajax89.088.089.089.085.088.0220.336156.00
Monchengladbach87.088.088.288.086.087.4218.9211383.00
Liverpool88.088.388.690.087.088.4220.984221.50
Olympique Lyonnais87.086.587.588.585.086.9217.37188101.38
Bremen86.086.387.688.080.085.6216.20191180.82
Chievo Verona88.087.587.488.086.087.4218.00161060.70
Paris Saint-Germain85.088.388.290.085.087.3220.069720.43
Besiktas JK87.087.887.488.086.087.2218.08151410.14
Feyenoord87.086.888.088.086.087.2217.76171610.13
Schalke87.085.886.888.585.086.6216.17201910.11
Dynamo Kyiv88.086.587.490.085.087.4218.38131300.08
AS Monaco89.088.589.089.086.088.3220.8556-10.00
ACF Fiorentina88.088.088.887.086.087.6218.871217-5-0.24
Lokomotiv Moskva88.088.889.690.086.088.5222.0624-2-0.25
Independiente88.088.588.489.085.087.8220.13812-4-0.25
Fenerbahçe SK87.087.887.688.086.087.3218.241420-6-0.25
Dynamo Moskva87.088.588.088.087.087.7219.281015-5-0.27
Celtic88.089.089.090.086.088.4221.7839-6-0.56
Crystal Palace86.087.588.291.085.087.5220.23718-11-0.56
SSC Napoli90.088.589.691.087.089.2222.8715-4-0.60
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-14T14:05:58+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/14/140558/", "tags": ["Season Predictions and Reviews"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/14/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "title": "Season 27 Division 3 Stats and Facts review.", "content_html": "\n

Two playoff finalists lead the stats.

\n\n\n

Perhaps it is not a surprise that the two playoff finalists are the two most over performing teams. Galatasaray +11VA and relegation candidate lead the stats just beating +6 VA St Etienne in 2nd spot. My own Sevilla come 3rd in the stats, the only automatically promoted team to over perform. While tied on PVA with WBA the superior VA gives us the edge into 3rd. Having said that WBA and Genoa did what they must in 1st and 2nd and should do well in D2.  Dnipro have to get a shout out on +3VA avoiding relegation just.

\n\n\n

In reality no one did really badly. Hoffenheim failed to make the playoff when they should and hence are the lowest in the stats, just above Sampdoria who also will look to better next year.   Montpellier’s -5VA dropped them into the relegation zone along with Partizan. 2 of the 4 predicted teams were relegated and no one outside the lowest 6 teams escaped which is food for thought.   

\n\n\n

The variation in D3 was very similar to D1, less than +/- 3 positions per team, I did slightly better on 56 pts out vs 58pts the A.I failed to spot the mild under-performing teams as well as I did.

\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
 GKDEFMIDATTTop18AveETOTPreFinVAPVA
Galatasaray SK88.087.387.688.086.087.4217.96187111.71
AS Saint-Etienne90.088.589.289.082.087.7220.6511561.40
SEVILLA FC89.088.388.691.087.088.8221.755321.00
West Bromwich Albion91.090.390.891.086.089.8225.231101.00
Genoa CFC88.089.389.692.088.089.4224.002200.50
Lille OSC87.088.889.090.086.088.2221.467610.33
Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk88.086.587.888.086.087.3217.52191630.25
AS Roma89.088.088.689.084.087.7219.89141220.25
River Plate87.087.086.487.085.086.5215.91201730.24
Zenit Saint Petersburg89.088.589.091.086.088.7222.1534-10.00
Tottenham Hotspur88.088.388.491.083.087.7220.9989-10.00
Sunderland88.088.389.689.085.088.0220.89910-10.00
Southampton87.088.588.889.086.087.9220.451213-10.00
Newcastle United88.087.088.288.087.087.6218.361718-10.00
FC Basel88.088.088.490.085.087.9220.381315-2-0.07
FK Partizan88.088.088.288.085.087.4218.921619-3-0.11
Montpellier HSC88.087.388.290.085.087.7219.621520-5-0.20
Swansea City88.088.589.289.085.087.9220.771014-4-0.21
Sampdoria87.088.588.691.085.088.0221.47611-5-0.36
Hoffenheim89.088.890.089.086.088.6221.8548-4-0.38
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-14T13:41:29+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/14/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "tags": ["Season Predictions and Reviews"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/13/144032/", "title": "Season 27 Division 2 Stats and Facts review.", "content_html": "\n

Espanyol +14VA +5PVA the stats winners.

\n\n\n

Some big winners and some big not winners in D2.  Espanyol were a potential relegation team at the start of the season but true grit, good management and transfers pushed them to promotion.  Playoff team Wolfsburg had +10 VA and could have gained promotion over Espanyol had they slipped up. Internacional came 2nd in the league and 3rd in the stats. Other great over preforming teams were Augsburg on +10 VA, Everton on +6 and Atletico Madrid on +5.  Arsenal did all they could and won the league.

\n\n\n

At the wrong end. Flamengo who should have been promoted slipped to 12th and -9VA and the worse PVA,  Liege on -11 VA managed to get relegated with a great squad with Malaga on -8 VA suffering the same fate.  Anderlecht can also count themselves lucky on -7 VA to stay up.

\n\n\n

There was a much bigger variation in D2.  My total was 102 and the AI 100. The A.I was generally more optimistic about the over performing teams but not pessimistic enough with the underperforming teams.

\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
 GKDEFMIDATTTop18AveETOTPreFinVAPVA
RCD Espanyol90.089.589.088.086.088.5221.12173145.00
Wolfsburg88.089.389.289.086.088.3221.49144102.75
SC Internacional91.089.090.091.085.089.2223.474221.50
Atlético Madrid90.089.389.090.083.088.3221.8610551.20
Augsburg89.087.388.090.085.087.9219.582010101.10
Arsenal91.090.591.291.085.089.7225.631101.00
Everton88.089.089.289.087.088.4221.4115960.78
West Ham United89.089.389.888.087.088.6221.56131120.27
Manchester United88.089.389.089.086.088.3221.33161510.13
Boca Juniors89.086.587.095.082.087.9221.07191810.11
Cologne90.089.388.692.084.088.8222.9667-10.00
Dinamo Zagreb90.088.589.089.087.088.7221.091820-2-0.05
Real Madrid89.089.088.690.087.088.7221.701113-2-0.08
Udinese Calcio89.089.588.889.087.088.7221.611216-4-0.19
SL Benfica90.089.089.891.085.089.0223.1958-3-0.25
Málaga CF88.089.089.290.087.088.6222.06917-8-0.41
RSC Anderlecht89.088.889.092.085.088.8222.88714-7-0.43
Stoke City90.090.590.490.087.089.6224.4626-4-0.50
Standard Liège93.088.889.490.087.089.6222.62819-11-0.53
CR Flamengo88.089.389.492.086.088.9223.60312-9-0.67
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-13T14:40:32+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/13/144032/", "tags": ["Season Predictions and Reviews"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/13/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "title": "Season 27 Division 1 Stats and Facts review", "content_html": "\n

.

\n\n\n

Chelsea well deserved champions and leaders in the stats.

\n\n\n

Usual reminder. At the start of the year, I calculated the ratings in the 4 main positions, Top18 and Average. This is plugged in a magic formula and finishing position calculated. This is used to work out the Positional value added, which is based on the value added and finishing position.

\n\n\n

Chelsea finished a position higher than expected and overcame their closest opposition.  Barcelona in 2nd spot in the league and the stats, also showed distinct improvement this season, with Leicester in 3rd place also showing that a new boss can continue the good form.

\n\n\n

Highest value added goes to Hertha predicted 11th they came 6th and get a slightly higher value added than Sporting who came 5th. CSKA had the only other largish VA on +4 avoiding relegation.

\n\n\n

Biggest underperformance, probably this goes down to Dortmund who slumped to 7th spot, but could also be with Juventus on -7 VA or Inter on -5 VA and relegation.

\n\n\n

3 of the predicted relegation teams went down.

\n\n\n

How did the A.I. do. From 20 teams my total variation for 58 and the A.I. 60, so I did slightly better. The A.I. did get 2 teams spot on but I got more than half the teams within +/- 2 positions.

\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
 GKDEFMIDATTTop18AveETOTPreFinVAPVA
Chelsea94.093.593.494.082.091.4231.742112.00
Barcelona92.091.893.296.085.091.6231.604221.50
Leicester City91.092.593.494.087.091.6231.186331.33
H. Berlin92.089.590.894.088.090.9226.9411651.00
Sporting CP90.091.892.292.087.090.6228.209541.00
Bayern93.090.091.294.087.091.0227.6610820.38
Hamburg90.089.890.891.087.089.7224.83151230.33
CSKA Moskva90.089.088.889.087.088.8221.33201640.31
Manchester City93.089.589.892.086.090.1224.72161330.31
São Paulo FC91.090.391.691.086.090.0225.87131120.27
Hellas Verona91.092.592.895.090.092.3231.7134-10.00
Levante UD91.092.093.491.085.090.5228.5989-10.00
Aston Villa89.090.090.293.087.089.8225.731415-10.00
Leverkusen89.091.089.490.087.089.3223.941718-10.00
AC Milan89.089.889.891.087.089.3223.911819-10.00
Cruzeiro EC88.089.890.091.086.089.0223.831920-10.00
Internazionale92.090.090.893.087.090.6226.571217-5-0.24
FC Porto92.092.893.494.087.091.8231.50510-5-0.40
Juventus95.091.891.893.089.092.1229.37714-7-0.43
Dortmund93.092.593.095.087.092.1231.7517-6-0.71
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-13T14:19:49+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/13/season-division-stats-and-facts/", "tags": ["Season Predictions and Reviews"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/11/espanyol-season-review-against-all/", "title": "Espanyol Season Review: Against All Odds \u0026#8211; A Youth Revolution in Full Flow!", "content_html": "\n

What a season it’s been for Espanyol! Tonight, the team travels to face Arsenal in a match that could define everything. Sitting in 3rd place in Division 2 with promotion tantalizingly close, this is the stuff of football dreams. Just 90 minutes away from a sensational return to the top flight!
The numbers tell an incredible story: only 6 defeats all season and a rock-solid 69 points on the board. In any normal year, that would be more than enough for promotion. But this hasn’t been a normal year. Wolfsburg have been absolutely sensational and virtually unstoppable. They face relegated Boca Juniors tonight – a game they’re expected to win – meaning Espanyol must go to the Emirates and beat the Division 2 champions-elect, Arsenal, to keep their promotion hopes alive.
And to think… most people had Espanyol down for a relegation scrap at the start of the campaign!
But the manager refused to panic. He stayed true to a bold, long-term vision:
“We had strict objectives this season as part of our wider rebuild. We wanted to move on our older declining players and open up the academy pathway to the first team. It was a gamble. We needed to test our recruitment policy, trust these young players, and hope we’d get a helping hand with the updates. We also had to keep recruiting the next wave who will follow those now wearing the shirts.”
The gamble has paid off in spectacular fashion.
Ten of tonight’s likely starting lineup featured in the Youth Cup Final – which Espanyol won for the second time! In just 8 entries into the competition, they’ve reached 6 finals, a semi-final, and a quarter-final. With the age profile of this youth squad, the future looks ridiculously bright.
It’s a World Cup year, and eight of these exciting youngsters will represent their countries on the biggest stage. Many are already being linked with monster moves to Europe’s elite clubs.
Think about the transformation: When the manager arrived, 95% of the game world had zero interest in Espanyol players. It was the oldest squad in the league, sliding toward a painful drop through the divisions. Fast forward to now, and those same players are coveted assets. That’s what belief, hard work, and sticking to a vision can do.
No matter what happens tonight, this has been an unforgettable campaign. Espanyol have shown heart, hunger, and huge potential. Promotion would be the perfect ending – but even without it, the club is in a far stronger position heading into next season.
The rebuild is working. The future is bright. The Pericos are back – and they’re coming with serious intent! 💙⚪
Vamos Espanyol!

\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-11T16:56:39+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/11/espanyol-season-review-against-all/", "tags": ["Espanyol"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/11/ash-delivers-world-club-cup/", "title": "ASH DELIVERS WORLD CLUB CUP GLORY IN DEBUT SEASON AS LEICESTER EDGE PORTO", "content_html": "\n

Leicester crowned world champions after dramatic extra-time victory following 1-1 aggregate draw

\n\n\n

Ash could hardly have dreamed of a better beginning to life as Leicester City manager.

\n\n\n

In his first season in charge, the Leicester boss guided the club to World Club Cup glory, overcoming Porto in a tense and dramatic final that required fictional extra time to produce a winner after the two sides finished level at 1-1 on aggregate.

\n\n\n

The triumph marks the first World Club Cup title of Ash's managerial career and represents one of the finest achievements of his young tenure at the club. Having arrived with the task of leading Leicester into a new era, he has wasted little time in delivering silverware on the global stage.

\n\n\n

The final itself was a showcase of determination and tactical discipline from both teams. Neither Leicester nor Porto were willing to give ground, resulting in a closely fought contest that remained on a knife-edge throughout both legs.

\n\n\n

Porto, managed by Andre, proved worthy opponents and matched Leicester for long periods of the tie. After the aggregate score finished 1-1, the final was forced into fictional extra time, with the destination of the trophy hanging in the balance.

\n\n\n

As fatigue set in and tension gripped players and supporters alike, Leicester found the moment they had been searching for. The decisive extra-time goal finally broke the deadlock and sent the Leicester bench into wild celebrations.

\n\n\n

Porto pushed desperately for an equaliser, but Leicester stood firm, defending their advantage until the final whistle confirmed them as world champions.

\n\n\n

The victory is particularly significant for Ash, whose arrival at the club was met with both excitement and expectation. Delivering a major international trophy in his first season has immediately endeared him to supporters and established his credentials among the game's rising managers.

\n\n\n

Leicester's players also deserve immense credit for navigating one of the toughest paths imaginable. Against a Porto side that refused to surrender, they demonstrated resilience, composure and character when it mattered most.

\n\n\n

For Andre and Porto, defeat will be difficult to accept after pushing the final beyond normal time. Their performance throughout the tie earned admiration and respect, even if they ultimately fell short of lifting the trophy.

\n\n\n

As Leicester's players celebrated on the world stage, one image stood above the rest: Ash, in his debut season, raising the World Club Cup trophy for the first time in his career.

\n\n\n

For Leicester City, it is a moment of glory.

\n\n\n

For Ash, it may be the beginning of something special.

\n\n\n
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-11T09:05:48+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/11/ash-delivers-world-club-cup/", "tags": ["World Club Cup"] }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/10/sevilla-end-of-season-review/", "title": "Sevilla end of season review.", "content_html": "\n
\"\"
\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-10T13:29:37+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/10/sevilla-end-of-season-review/" }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/10/final-day-frenzy-titles-won/", "title": "FINAL DAY FRENZY: TITLES WON, HEARTS BROKEN AND EVERYTHING STILL TO PLAY FOR", "content_html": "\n

The season reaches its boiling point as clubs across all five divisions face their moment of truth. Some are already celebrating, others are clinging on for dear life, and a few are praying for miracles.

\n\n\n

DIVISION 1: CHELSEA CROWNED, BUT THIRD PLACE IS A STREET FIGHT

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

Chelsea have stormed to the title with Barca trailing behind, while Hellas sit in third — but only just. Leicester and Sporting lurk in the shadows, but the goal difference gap is so colossal it would take a footballing apocalypse to overturn it.

\n\n\n

Key fixtures:

\n\n\n\n\n\n

Relegation? Already sorted. Nothing to see here.

\n\n\n

DIVISION 2: ARSENAL CHAMPIONS, BUT THE SCRAMBLE FOR THIRD IS PURE CHAOS

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

Arsenal have wrapped up the title and Internacional will join them in the top flight. But the real drama is the battle for third place and the playoff spots.

\n\n\n

Third‑place showdown:

\n\n\n\n\n\n

Playoff contenders: Stoke & Benfica

\n\n\n\n\n\n

Relegation? Signed, sealed, delivered.

\n\n\n

DIVISION 3: PROMOTION SET, BUT THE RELEGATION TRAPDOOR IS WIDE OPEN

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

WBA, Genoa and Sevilla are already celebrating promotion. Zenit, St Etienne and Lille can rest their stars. But the playoff hopefuls? They’re sweating.

\n\n\n

Playoff chasers: Hoffenheim, Galatasaray, Spurs

\n\n\n\n\n\n

Relegation roulette: Dnipro, River Plate, Partizan

\n\n\n\n\n\n

If Dnipro win, River Plate are heading down.

\n\n\n

DIVISION 4: AJAX CHAMPIONS, BUT THE PROMOTION AND PLAYOFF RACE IS BRUTAL

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

Ajax take the title, Liverpool are already up, but Lokomotive and Monchengladbach are separated by a single point — with Gladbach holding the goal‑difference advantage.

\n\n\n

Promotion deciders:

\n\n\n\n\n\n

Playoff contenders: Monaco, PSG, Napoli, Lyon One of them must miss out.

\n\n\n\n\n\n

Relegation battle: Feyenoord vs Fiorentina

\n\n\n\n\n\n

Fiorentina probably don’t have enough to survive.

\n\n\n

DIVISION 5: PLAYOFF STAMPEDE AS FIVE TEAMS CHASE THREE SPOTS

\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

The top three are locked in. Santos can rest players. The playoff race? Absolute carnage.

\n\n\n

Contenders: AZ, Rubin, PSV, Villarreal, Shakhtar

\n\n\n

Key fixtures:

\n\n\n\n\n\n

Prediction: Rubin, PSV and Villarreal to take the playoff spots.

\n\n\n

Sack race? Nothing left to play for.

\n\n\n

\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-10T13:24:34+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/10/final-day-frenzy-titles-won/" }, { "id": "http://smtop100.micro.blog/2026/06/08/chelsea-james/", "title": "Chelsea - James", "content_html": "\n
\"\"
\n\n\n
\"\"
\n\n\n

Some people like to build slowly,at chelsea we have always tried to create great youth and sell them on to make the first team the best it can be.constantly scouting for players isn’t an easy game,injuries loss of form knowing when to sell when they are at there peak.the pitfalls of someone heading to Saudi.sometimes it’s a thankless task.but always one that gives u great enjoyment.this term we have moved
On some of
The best finds I’ve had.but it’s all worth it to get my hands back on the title.barca have pushed us all the way this term and credit to Adam his consistency has been great.but we had a spell of 12 wins in a row at the mid point of the season and it propelled us into a great position,one we nearly threw away after a series of injuries and suspensions.but finally 6 seasons after our last title.one we loved but knew we had to go back to the drawing board and reinvent ourselfs ,something some teams don’t come back from but we have managed to believe in what we are doing here,stick to the plan and we look like a
Proper team who can maybe next season carry
This great momentum forward and go for
Another title.till then we will savour this season and take great
Pride knowing that next term we will be the target,the one everybody wants to beat. Cheers for all the congrats
I’ve received
And good luck to everyone for the play offs.lets
Get the transfers going at
End of season and hoping to see some big deals for next term to keep
This gameworld going strong.

\n\n", "date_published": "2026-06-08T17:49:23+01:00", "url": "https://smtop100.blog/2026/06/08/chelsea-james/" } ] }