Hello there from a hot but not humid Hoosierland. Today found me a bit down as I realized that this week is football-less, but then my mood changed as I remembered that now Arsenal could be my sole focus as the official season ahead starts in just over a month. The transfer window could bring more Arsenal players which is exciting, but even more exciting is how firm our manager stands while in the line of fire from Barcelona. I am - I recognize - a day late in finding this out, but Le Boss refused to meet with Sandy to discuss Cesc. I may have issues with Wenger's stubbornness sometimes, but the man exudes integrity. His not backing down to Barca is just one of the reasons I'm proud to be an Arsenal fan. Barfa's lack of integrity, however, may finally be leaving it's own mark as Michael Calvin from the Mirror describes Barca's pursuit of Cesc as "moral blackmail". Check it out for a quick read.
Speaking of Cescie (how cute is that pic by the way?) - I think he is beginning his public relations campaign aimed at winning back those Arsenal fans who have resented his near-move to Barca. Cesc was quoted as dedicating his win to Arsenal and its fans. I know that I may be cynical in my analysis here, but I want you to know that there is a huge part of that wants him to be sincere in that acknowledgement - and a part that thinks he actually could be. I never thought his leaving Arsenal would be an easy decision for Cesc. He's not like a lot of other footballers. He seems down to earth, intelligent and thoughtful. See my homage to him so I don't have to go blathering on about how much we love him again. It's a waiting game that I hope will conclude quickly.
Another Gunner (or ex) in the rumor mill is Solid Sol who now may be signing for Sunderland. I am not a fan of playing against ex-Arsenal players in the Premier League. At least I don't like playing against the ones we liked. Sol had such a great perforamce the second half of the year - and was such an influence in the locker room I only want to see him in Arsenal Red or in a club color against whom we have no matches. I know he's vying for as much playing time as possible in the twilight of his career. It just kinda makes me a bit sad.
What else? Here's an interesting article from an ESPN columnist on why Americans need to embrace the dive/flop. I don't agree with all that he says. I don't think flopping, whether it be a soccer, hockey, or basketball version - has to be embraced. I think Americans need to recognize that this "white lie" of cheating exists in our other more popular sports and so noses should not be turned up at the world of soccer because, it too, has ways to fool the official. What about you? Let me know what you think by leaving a comment.
Lastly, I'm going to be a complete sap here and include the video of Spanish goalkeeper Iker Casillas kissing his girlfriend/reporter during a post-game interview. Ah...what goes together better than love and victory?
I guess that's all. Next time I'm hoping to have an update on the Chicago Fire (I know you all have been chomping at the bit for news on that front). Have a good one.
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