Rory Smith
Posts
Portrait of an Artist, Still Just a Young Man
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has become a star in nine months at Napoli. With his transcendent talent, things may only get better.
P.S.G.’s Star System Has Run Its Course
Even with Messi, Mbappé and Neymar, the French champion is a Champions League also-ran once again. Is buying local the way forward?
Chelsea Saves the Day; Saving the Season Can Come Later
Beating Dortmund in the Champions League will ease the pressure on Graham Potter and his team, but it won’t end the questions about where they...
Liverpool, Napoli and the Problem With Systems
As system clubs start to falter, the future seems to belong to the teams and coaches who are willing to be a little more flexible.
The Oligarchs’ Derby
When the top teams in Greece meet, the story lines, and the rivalries, regularly extend far beyond the soccer field.
How Should Fans Feel About Newcastle United?
Smart signings and Saudi money have revived a moribund Premier League soccer team. Those cheering their good fortune say they shouldn’t have to answer for...
Real Madrid 5, Liverpool 2: Champions League Laugher at Anfield
That Real Madrid delivered another memorable Champions League victory was no surprise. It was the manner of Liverpool’s defeat that spoke volumes.
Reputation Meets Reality in the Champions League
The Premier League’s financial might should allow it to dominate Europe’s top soccer competition. So why hasn’t that happened?
Manchester City Beats Arsenal, and the Premier League Season Pivots
Manchester City’s 3-1 victory lifted it over Arsenal and into first place in the Premier League. But the title race is far from over.
P.S.G.-Bayern: Choupo-Moting Shows Benefits of the Slow Burn
Eric-Maxim Choupo-Moting was never a can’t-miss talent. But as he leads Bayern Munich against P.S.G., he has proved he belongs right where he is.