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Rory Smith
Posts
Messi and Benzema, Saudis and Soccer, Bread and Circuses
Soccer is the ultimate prize in Saudi Arabia’s push in sports. Karim Benzema’s signing offered a glimpse of the price tag. Lionel Messi’s rejection showed…
Women’s Champions League: Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmatí Chases Perfection
In her quest to become a “complete” player, Aitana Bonmatí wants to know everything. As she prepares for a fourth Champions League final, it’s working.
Everton Saved Its Premier League Status. But for How Long?
A win on the final day of the season kept Everton in the league and relegated Leicester and Leeds. But those results may be subject…
Dortmund, Bayern Munich and the Chance of a Lifetime
A Dortmund victory on Saturday will end Bayern Munich’s streak of 10 straight titles. The prospect of a new champion should be a cause of…
The Patience of the Next Big Thing
By leading Burnley back to the Premier League, Vincent Kompany has emerged as one of soccer’s brightest young coaches. He is not in a rush…
Manchester City’s Premier League Success Leaves Many Cold
On the verge of another Premier League title, City has the air of a machine. But admiring its excellence is not the same as accepting…
With Stakes at Their Highest, Manchester City Rises Higher Still
City defeated Real Madrid, 4-0, in the second leg of their Champions League semifinal to take another step toward the prize it has long sought.
With Stakes at Their Highest, Manchester City Rises
City defeated Real Madrid, 4-0, in the second leg of their Champions League semifinal to take another step toward the prize it has long sought.
The Premier League Crucible Produces Something New: Ideas
England has long relied on imported players, imported coaches, imported best practices. Now it’s trying something new for a change.
Milan Divided by Partisanship, United in Voice
The Champions League semifinal matchup between A.C. Milan and Inter may be less refined than its counterpart, but it does not lack for atmosphere and…