The discussion about these colours has been going on almost as long as the club existed. There are several hypotheses being put forth in books, in the net and by TV stations. I will try to sort it out by what might be at least plausible. Some very weird claimants have appeared while I searched the net. The one person who never commented on it was Joan (or Hans) Gamper, one of the founders of the club and five times its president.

Hans Gamper was born near Zurich in Switzerland and moved to Barcelona in 1898. 1899 he co-founded the club together with local English and Spanish friends. The colours and the coat of arms were adopted at that time and there are no records on the issue. The colours are blue and red as seen on the shirt of 2006/2007 below.

Hans Gamper had been a member of FC Basel in Switzerland founded in 1893. As he was also its playing captain in the year prior to his move to Barcelona, a connection is at least plausible. FC Basel has the colours blue and red as seen on the shirt of 2006/2007 below. Depending on the language you read it in, Wikipedia either agrees, tentatively agrees, or refutes this claim.

Some people claim that the colours are the national colours of the State and Republic of Ticino in Switzerland. They are partly correct, as the colours of FC Basel derive from that source. As an older club had already claimed the colours black and white, the colours of Ticino were chosen, as these two states had traditionally very close ties. As you see from the coat of arms, the use had been inverted by the founders of FC Basel. This inversion makes the claim of FC Basel more acceptable to me than the Ticino version, as FC Barcelona colours are inverted as well.

Further claims I found were those made by FC Zurich in Switzerland, as Gamper was one of the co-founders of that club in 1896. The club's colours are blue and white; the red seemingly just appeared out of thin air. Wikipedia in English claims Mersey FC as donator of the colours. Why, nobody knows. There are many other curious stories on the net. Most probably the colours were chosen on a whim y the founders without any thought to precedents.

Barcelona has the largest stadium in Europe, containing up to 98,000 fans. It is also held in the colours of blue and red. It is known by the name of Camp Nou, though it should have been named Camp Joan Gamper in 1957. Dictator Franco vetoed the name on grounds of personal hatred against the founder of FC Barcelona.

Basel has the largest stadium in Switzerland containing up to 40,000 fans. It is also held in blue and red. It is officially named St Jacobs Park, but nobody bothers with that. It is just called ‘Joggeli' (pronounce it ‘yoggaelee') in Alemannic.

As both clubs are currently playing against each other in the European Champions League, the colour question has been readdressed from all sides. FC Barcelona's archives give no answer to the question, wherefore we may look forward to many more discussions of this topic.

willing to buy season tickets just to get a glimpse at Beckham even if he's not playing. But Beckham is missing games and people are wanting their money back. But the companies affirmed that they didint confirm that Beckham was playing or not.

Prior to his knee injury, New York and Washington DC fans went to see his game just in case that he did come to play. Fortunately for them, Beckham did play.

I think that Galaxy over payed Beckham to come to play at his age and in his condition. He is no use to them now they will be better off getting C.Ronaldo who is young and growing. But the good side of this is that Beckham is bringing loads of money due to sold out games, merchandise sold all over the place.

Of course, one could refer to the point earned by CFR Cluj-Napoca after the visit of Chelsea and argue that there is not such a big gap in quality after all, but it would be foolish to overlook the fact that the London side simply had a bad day. Every club is prone to delivering a performance that lacks penetration, as Arsenal duly demonstrated against Hull City last weekend in the domestic league. However, a re-evaluation of the mentality required to win is all it takes to steady the ship when a team possesses that much quality, and the Gunners' slick passing punished Porto's inadequacies on Tuesday night.

The fact that Arsenal and Liverpool, the 3rd and 4th best teams in England respectively, defeated FC Porto and PSV Eindhoven, league champions in their own nations, shows the superiority of the English Premier League over other countries. Of course we are already aware of this gap in class; three of the last four teams in last season's Champions League hailed from England. The other was Barcelona, who offered nothing in their semi-final against Man Utd and are relying heavily on a combination of dodgy refereeing decisions and the mercurial talents of Lionel Messi to guide them through the opening stages of their league and European campaigns.

Both Mourinho's Inter Milan and Juventus, giants of the Italian game, could only muster draws in their games whilst Bayern Munich and Lyon played out a 1-1 draw, with both teams looking out of sorts in these opening stages of the competition.

So what does this mean for European football? An English club has graced the final of the Champions League in each of the last four seasons, most notably with the all-English affair between Chelsea and eventual winners Manchester Utd last season. It is seen as a disappointing failure in this country if any one of the "big four" does not make it to the quarter-finals at the very least. There has not been this sort of domination of Europe by a nation since the late 1970s when English clubs won the competition five years running from 1977-1982. Would another run like that make the competition stagnant and less enjoyable?

One of the chief beauties of a football game is that the best team does not always win (once again, I refer to Arsenal vs. Hull City). It is this unpredictability that draws people to the game. However, over the course of a season or a lengthy competition such as the Champions League, the best team (or at least one of the best teams) does invariably win. And rightly so: if a club is made up of the most talented players and they play to the best of their ability then no-one can hold that against them. Did anyone begrudge Roger Federer winning Wimbledon five times in a row? No, because he had put in the hard work to become a good player and then simply exercised his talents to achieve his goal. So in a purely footballing sense, I fully welcome English clubs having continued success in European competition.

The only frightening part of English clubs dominating Europe is the financial implications. None of the other nations would be able to keep up with the wealth of the Premier League, but the greater worry is closer to home: the money earned from European success would propel the "big four" even further away from all the other clubs in the football league in terms of both trophies and financial resources. If that were to happen - and it is a distinct possibility -then the only hope of breaking that monopoly would be for the billionaire investors to come and throw their oil money at clubs such as Manchester City or Aston Villa. Then we are left with an on-going transfer merry-go-round as the world's best players arrive with hugely inflated wage demands and quash any hopes of young local talent coming through. This in turn would basically ensure that the England national team would never compete for a championship ever again.

So with that in mind, let us all hope for a surprise package to cause some upsets in the Champions League this season. I am hopeful of further success for FC Cluj, the team from Romania. With four points from their opening two games against Roma and Chelsea, they have shown they have the bite to potentially be the final nail in the coffin for one of the title hopefuls.

The Gunner's maestro dominated the experienced German midfield and showed exactly why there are too few superlatives in the English language to describe his ability. The fluidity and aesthetic appeal of the Spanish in this tournament was nothing short of extraordinary - movement and vision encapsulated the aforementioned midfield quartet was arguably the key to success. In a time when football fans seem to call for more value for money through the turnstiles from the so called entertainment business- it was Spain who delivered the goods in every game. Only the second team to win every game of the Euros made Spain undoubtedly worthy winners which of course this begs the question; "Just how will the new European champions fare in 2010 at the next world cup against the traditional superpowers of Brazil and Argentina?"

In my humble opinion, it is a joy to behold the architects of some of the most precise, exuberant and lethal football being played, what's more is that it's these teams who are winning more often than not. In 2008 Manchester United edged out Chelsea in both the Premiership and Champions League, much to the delight of many footballing neutrals who were much more endured to the style and finesse of United than the power and efficiency of Chelsea. The likes of Drogba, Ballack, Lampard and Essien all played vital roles within the 2008 campaign for Chelsea, however it was these powerhouses who were preferred in Mourinho's and then Grant's teams selections over the more technically minded Kalou, Malouda and Wright-Phillips.

The appointment of Luiz Filipe Scolari as new Chelsea coach this summer has sparked rumors of a new Chelsea style, comparable to that of Manchester United, Barcelona, and other such iconic teams associated with the beautiful game. The first signing of Scolari was fellow Brazilian (now Portuguese by nationality) playmaker Deco. In a sensational coup, Scolari may have just found the missing component to Chelsea's title ambitions. The flair, pzazz and audacity of Deco could similarly rake in millions through media interest in a more attractive looking Chelsea team, commercial sales through shirts, and indeed more neutral support - A winner on all fronts for Abramovic, Kenyon, Buck and the rest of the Chelsea hierarchy.

Football is a beautiful game, one remembered for exciting games and gifted players. If the changing face of football is one with this façade, and this looks increasingly likely, it makes for an exciting time to come in the world's most beloved game. Long live the beautiful game.

28 year old Brazilian striker and attacking midfielder Ronaldinho transferred from Barcelona to AC Milan after 5 great years in Barcelona. Ronaldinho was the pupil of ardent Barcelona fans. AC Milan has paid 25 million euros for the transfer of him to club Barcelona. Next season, he is gonna play for the victory of Milan. I am sure he will do his best and become victoriuous.

Deco is another man leaving Camp Noi. He played for Barcelona FC between 2004 and 2008 years. He scored 13 goals in 4 years but made many assists to his friends. He also played a great role in the success of Portugal National Team in Euro 2008. Chelsea signed a three-year contract on June 30, 2008. Chelsea bord announced that club has paid 7.9 million pounds for this transfer. Chelsea is more powerful with coming of Deco this year. I am sure they will play very well with another midfielder Michael Ballack.

Hleb stared while he was playing for Arsenal. He participated Arsenal in 2005 and played for Arsenal for consecutive three years. He increased the dynamism of the team. On July 16, Hleb was transfered to Barcelona with a fee of 11.8 million pounds. Barcelona board announced that Hleb signed a four-year contract. I am sure he is ready to be the new pupil of the supporters.

Guiza is the top scorer of Spanish league in 2007-2008 season. He scored 27 goals in 37 match with no penalty kick. This transfer was completely surprising for both Spanish club and Fenerbahce. Next season, he will play for Fenerbahce in both national league and Champions League if Fenerbahce beats the opponents in qualification matches. I believe he will be a nightmare for the goalkeepers. Fenerbahce has paid 14 million euros for Guiza. He is the most expensive foreign player to be transferred Turkish league.

Etoo is also certain to leave, he wants to play in the EPL. When the core of a team departs it is quite understandable that everything is not going good at the club.Rijkaard has also got his marching orders, and if you think Bojan, Xavi and Messi are good enough then you should think again, another player who has been a shadow of himself is Henry, he divorced his wife and he does not get to see his daughter these days this is what is bothering him on the field if the reporters are to be believed. So after two disastrous seasons what can Barcelona and the faithful expect? According to me the core of the team has to stick together no matter what but in this case I see very disappointing results, even though I want Barca to do well but its very unlikely to see that happening. This season they could have easily won the domestic title but the lack of motivation showed on the faces of the players. After getting a lead Barca throws away that lead with ease and allows the opponents to take an advantage of them. I have not seen Barca play the way they played this season. They had a different brand of football which was admired the world over but all that has changed.

The only player who stands out this season is Messi, he has been incredible but you have to ask yourself can one good player win you titles? It has to be a team effort which fetches you titles, and who better than barca knows it. After winning the champions league and the la liga two years in a row the players have become overconfident I guess that is why they have started taking things for granted. But in football nothing can be taken for granted. I hope barca rises like a Phoenix from the ashes but as of now its very unlikely to see that happening. I hope the new manager brings in good players who can turn around the fortune of Barca together with Xavi, Messi and others. This is the only thing which can save the reputation of Barca now. They set themselves high standards' and if they do not live up to it then they would surely end up disappointing each and every Barca fan and most importantly they would end up disappointing themselves.

For example, I feel better when I am in Istanbul's Inonu Stadium than when I am in my office or home. This article is about the wonders of football. If you think that I am going to talk about players, you are wrong. This is about the stadiums where the heart of football is. There are many wonderful stadiums in Europe, but only seven of them are included.

1. Wembley Stadium (United Kingdom)

   
   
   
It is located in London. It is primarily used for the matches of England's National Team and the final match of FA Cup. It is used for not only football matches but also concerts and other sporting events. The capacity of Wembley is approximately 90000. It is the largest stadium in the world every seat under cover.



2. Old Trafford Stadium United Kingdom)

   
   
   
It is the stadium of famous British football club Manchester United. They are also known as “Red Devils”. It was designed by famous Scottish architect Archibald Leitch. Old Trafford has a capacity of 76212 seats. It was opened in 1910 but it was restored many times. It witnessed the final matches of FA Cup, Champions League semifinal matches of Red Devils and World Cup organizations.



3. Giuseppe Meazza (Sansiro) Stadium (Milano)

   
   
   It is the home stadium of A. C Milan and F. C Internazionale which are the two most successful teams of Italy in both nationwide and worldwide. It takes his name from famous Italian player Giuseppe Meazza. It witnessed the final matches of Italy League, Italy Cup, Italy Super Cup, final and semifinal matches of European Champions League and UEFA Cup. The capacity of San Siro is 82955. Many famous singers (Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, Carlos Santana, Robbie Williams, etc.) and music groups (Red Hot Chili Peppers, U2, Duran Duran, Genesis, Ligabue, etc.) gave concerts in San Siro.
   
   

4. Roma Olympic Stadium (Roma)

   
   
   
It is the football stadium where Roma, Lazio and Italian National Team play their matches. It was built in 1936 in Roma. The capacity of Roma Olympic Stadium is 82307. It witnessed 1960 Summer Olympics, 1987 World Athletics Championships and 1990 Fifa World Cup. It is announced that Roma Olympic Stadium is the host of Champions League final in 2009.



5. Santiago Bernabeu (Madrid)

   
   
   
It is the stadium of famous Spanish football club Real Madrid. It takes this name from the club president of Real Madrid in 1950's. It has a capacity of 80400. It hosted the European Cup finals in 1957, 1969 and 1980, European Championship final in 1964 and Fifa World Cup final in 1980. Santiago Bernabeu is the heart of Madrid.



6. Camp Nou (Barcelona)

   
   
   
It is the stadium of famous Catalan football club F. C Barcelona. It was constructed in1957. With the capacity of 98772, it is one of the 5-star rated stadiums of UEFA. It hosted European Champions League final and semifinal matches. Michael Jackson, U2, Frank Sinatra, Julio Iglesias, Bruce Springsteen and Luciano Pavarotti gave concerts in Camp Nou. Especially Frank Sinatra's concert in Nou Camp was unforgetable.



7. Stade De France (Paris)

   
   
   
It is the home of France's National Team. It is located in Saint-Dennis which is one of the inner suburbs of Paris. It's construction costs 285 million pounds and it has a capacity of 80000. It hosted 2003 World Championship in athletics, 1999 World Cup in rugby. It also hosted 1998 Fifa World Cup final match between France and Brazil teams. In this match, France defeated Brazil by three goals.

Winning all leagues and tournaments are possible if someone has very talented players or very good tactics. In this article, I am going to introduce you the most popular tactics of Championship Manager series.

All tactics of such games can be classified as offensive tactics and defensive tactics. This article covers only the offensive tactics of Championship Manager.

Offensive Tactics

Offensive tactics aim to score more goals. Furthermore, offensive players have a great talent of dribbling, acceleration, scoring, positioning and determination. Popular offensive tactics can be grouped as

3-5-2, 4-4-2, 3-4-3.

3-5-2 tactic: In this tactic, 5 players play in the middle of all the game field. 3 of them are placed in the center. Other two use the wings to attack and help the strikers to score. One of this midfielders should have a strong passing and defensive capacity. He breaks all attacks of the components. Wingers should have a capacity of accelerating, passing and dribbling. In this tactic, players mostly prefer using a midfielder who throws long shots. The advantage of this tactic is, someone can easily score goal. Weak defense is the only drawback of the tactic. If you use this tactic, I recommend you to use ultradefensive players in defense.

4-4-2 tactic: In this tactic, 4 players play in the middle of all the game field. 2 of them plays as central midfielder and other two plays as winger. Since 4 players play as defender, defensive capacity of the team is stronger. Wingers should have a capacity of passing, accelerating and dribbling capacity. According to most of CM fans, 4-4-2 is the best tactic.

3-4-3 tactic: In this tactic, 4 players play as midfielder and 3 players play as striker. 2 of the strikers should have a capacity of dribbling, crossing and accelerating and other striker should have a capacity of heading and ball controlling. The only disadvantage of this tactic is weak defense. To avoid being scored goals, 2 central midfielder should be defensive players.