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Evilo · 04-30-2007, 10:05 AM

L1 Top 50 prospects May 2007

In order to describe each player’s potential and chance of reaching it, I put up a mark similar to HF’s ratings :
From 1 to 10 ranks the potential of the player (10 being a Maradona or Pele)
From A to F the chance of reaching it (A being there already)
Next to the rating, you’ll find the player’s ranking a year ago and the name of a pro or former pro, whose style is the closest to the style of the prospect.

Main graduates (84 born) :
Mavuba, Grax, Berthod, J. Faty, Chamakh, Fae, etc....

Main transfered players :
Mvuemba (Portsmouth)

1 (1) Karim Benzema, 87, ST, Lyon
Rating : 9B+, Ronaldo
Talent : A very rare combination of speed, dribbling, power and accuracy around the net, Benzema has the makings of a superstar. He seems level-headed too.
Season : Benzema was impressive when he played center forward, he was impressive when he played left winger, he was impressive anytime he stepped foot on the field. Yet, he spent most of the season on the bench or injured, which was quite frustrating. All his injuries were muscular, so we’ll have to see if that could hinder his developpment. He also had his first national team cap, and he scored a goal.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMlOITyWSsg

2 (2) Samir Nasri, 87, AM, Marseille
Rating : 9B+, Aimar
Talent : Nasri makes every play at full speed. He’s damn fast, has great dribbling skills and is above all a passer. He plays with both feet with ease, and can score some highlight-reels any time. His style is similar to Aimar, but he’s developping some intelligence in the tempo he sets in the games that is reminiscent of the great ZZ.
Season : Nasri stepped up to another level this year, and he’s now among the really best players in the league now. He could really be #1 in this ranking above Benzema, but I think he had more time and confidence to show his stuff, and I feel Benzema will be better in the long run. He had his first NT cap and assisted on the goal, having a great game.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTo6xJoBVlI

3 (3) Hatem Ben Arfa, 87, AM, Lyon
Rating : 9.5C+, Ronaldinho/Kaka
Talent : Ben Arfa is easily the most talented prospect in all of L1, and probably the most talented player in all of L1. He does things that nobody even thinks about doing in training. He has speed, dribbling like few others, a good shot. His weakness right now is both defensively, and mostly mentally (he lacks maturity). He often either tries to do to much, or doesn’t try individual stuff in fear of being benched. His game is based on individual difference, so he has to find the right balance.
Season : He nearly didn’t play before april in L1. Almost everytime he came onto the field, he added a dimension Lyon lacked. However, he is more fitted to play in a 4-4-2 either behind the two strikers or as a shadow striker (Kaka positionning), not Lyon’s usual 4-5-1 (or 4-3-3). His play recently showed his amazing potential, like his highlight reel goal against Sedan showed. I think he has to change team, but he signed an extension.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Hg1jt8wNm8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8tgZ...elated&search=
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZBspt_wxkA

4 (17) Rémy Riou, 87, GK, Lorient (on loan from Lyon)
Rating : 9B+, Coupet
Talent : Riou is just a perfect goalie with exceptionnal reflexes and a fearless attitude. He’s very relax, and inspires confidence in his teammates.
Season : Riou was pencilled a Lorient’s third goalie. But in a crazy game in mid-season, the #1 and #2 goalies were respectively hurt and sent off. Riou took over the following game (away at OM, 1-0 win) and never looked back. Without Riou in the lineup, Lorient took 21 goals in 16 games. With him in nets, they only got scored on 10 times in 18 games. The difference is huge. Riou is probably the closest thing to MVP this season with Lloris from Nice. Both goalies completely took their teams on their backs.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...s-lorient-2007

5 (25) Hugo Lloris, 86, GK, Nice
Rating : 9.5B, Buffon
Talent : Lloris has excellent qualities : very very good reflexes, he closes angles very fast and is always aware of everything that happens in the box. He can go out and catch any ball that is in the air. To score on him, shooting near the posts isn’t enough. He’s also extremely calm and poised.
Season : Lloris had a better season than anyone in L1 this year. He was the MVP of Nice (and probably of L1) and is the only reason Nice is not relegated at season’s end. There are talks of him moving to the biggest european clubs and if doesn’t happen this year, it will surely happen next summer, especially if he has another incredible season like this.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...vp_niceauxerre

6 (4) Jérémy Menez, 87, AM/ST, Monaco
Rating : 9C, C. Ronaldo
Talent : Menez is one heck of a talent. He has extremely impressive dribbling skills and now uses them appropriately. He has a very good shot, is very good on free kicks and can play any forward position. His upside is tremendous. His only weakness is mental right now.
Season : Menez had to adapt to a new team, and the whole team was struggling. However, Menez was always a starter and when he found form, the whole team started working. He’s proved to be extremely important and his chemistry with Meriem could transform Monaco into a serious contender. One of the best players of the second half of the season. Keep in mind he once was the youngest player to sign a pro contract, the youngest to score and the youngest to score a hattrick. Arsenal, ManU and Juventus had contacted him before this.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...de-monacolille

7 (U) Bafe Gomis, 85, ST, St Etienne,
Rating : 8.5B, Drogba
Talent : Gomis is a rare talent mostly because he tries things (and succeeds) that most strikers wouldn’t try. He surprises defensemen and goalies with sudden shots, backheels and overhead kicks. He is tough to move and is a tough task for defenses.
Season : Gomis showed glimpses of his talent in the first part of the season. But when Piquionne moved to Monaco, Gomis was suddenly a starter and he played twice better than Piquionne. He’s been absolutely amazing and has scored 10 goals in 16 starts.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...omis-asse-sete
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...int-etienne-02

8 (29) Serge Gakpe, 87, AM, Monaco
Rating : 8.5B, Vicente
Talent : Gakpe is the pure winger that has dribbling and speed qualities. He’s relatively small, but is tough to defend. He always thinks pass first.
Season : He was the best player in the league for the first 7-8 games but slowly disappeared. Still impressive. He needs to work on his consistency and endurance. The main problem is Monaco’s impressive depth.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...ba_serge-gakpe

9 (U) Yoan Gouffran, 86, AM/ST, Caen (L2)
Rating : 8.5B, Wiltord
Talent : Gouffran is exactly like a young Wiltord : he can play any attacking spot (striker, left winger, right wing, AM), has a huge shot, lots of speed and the will to succeed step by step. He is very intelligent, has progressed every year, and his ability to play with both feet very well, and his quality on header make him a very very attractive commodity.
Season : He had a very good season, scoring 12 goals already. He has been used at every forward position and played well every time. He’s been Caen’s biggest threat. If Caen comes to L1 next year (great possibility at this point), he may stay one more year. Every big team (Chelsea, Arsenal, Valencia among others) in Europe has had their sights on this guy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B880eh_qZms

10 (U) Gabriel Obertan, 89, AM/ST, Bordeaux
Rating : 9C, Henry
Talent : Obertan is a new comer, but boy what a talent. The comparisons with pre-Arsenal Henry (the winger) are absolutely valid based on his speed and most of all dribbling ability. Obertan is making L1 defensemen look like pylons every time he plays, and he’s only 17! His weaknesses are obviously his lack of finishing (one goal this season in 15 games) and his defensive work. But both should come with age too (the same things were said about Henry).
Season : He’s been trusted a lot by Ricardo. He has put guys like Dalmat in the stands. One goal, plenty of dangerous actions and a name that has journalists drooling. Bordeaux have a great future if they can find a decent striker because with Obertan on the left and the hyped Henri Saivet on the right, they’re going to be unstoppable up front.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nH7nl9VZWfo

11 (7) Younes Kaboul, 86, CB, Auxerre
Rating : 8.5B, Blanc
Talent : Kaboul has tremendous potential. A real physical presence, extremely good on offensive set plays, he is a natural leader with very good technical skills. His main problem is focus and consistency.
Season : He had some tough games with Auxerre’s terrible defense. He also spent some time injured. He has found his groove recently, which has suddenly plenty of teams calling for a summer transfer. He should move to Lyon, with Tottenham, Liverpool showing interest.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...rnee-ligue-1/1

12 (5) Cristian “cebello” Rodriguez, 85, AM, PSG, Uruguay
Rating : 9C-, Maradona
Talent : Rodriguez is one of the most talented players in L1. He has speed, excellent dribbling and passing ability and good shot. His main problem is consistency and openning his eyes to his teammates at times.
Season : Lacombe didn’t use him much, but Le Guen loves him and makes him play nearly every game, either as a starter or as a sub.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atV05axR6_o

13 (12) David N’Gog, 89, ST, PSG
Rating : 9C, Adriano/Trezeguet
Talent : N’Gog is one of the most hyped striker since I can remember. He’s fast, he’s strong and he’s money in front of the net.
Season : N’Gog finally saw some pro minutes and he scored in his Coupe de France debut against Sochaux. He was the most dangerous PSG player in that game. Everytime PSG officials talk about the future, they talk about David N’Gog. He was signed to a contract this year because Chelsea and others were sending him proposals.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...x-psg-280207/1

14 (9) Jimmy Briand, 85, ST, Rennes
Rating : 8.5B-
Talent : Briand has a lot of tools. He’s strong and fast, he has excellent technique and can score some beauties. What is frustrating is that he could be much better if he could focus better. He’s an intelligent player on the field and always thinks team first.
Season : He’s been more consistant this season, especially in the second half (5 goals in 13 games, 8 overall on the season).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20kyV8h_540

15 (U) André-Pierre Gignac, 85, ST, Lorient
Rating : 8B-, Drogba/Elmander
Talent : Gignac is the kind of guy that hurts the defense of your team. He’s strong as a bull, quite fast for his size and he never gives up on a play. He has a very nice right foot, but his left one isn’t too great.
Season : 8 goals, 4 assists for a guy that was playing in France’s 3rd level last season, that’s not too bad. Domenech has considered him for the NT, at least he said so. He’s in touch with several european and french teams, but Lorient doesn’t want to see him go.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...o/xxnoz_gignac

16 (16) David Gigliotti, 85, ST, Troyes (on loan from Monaco)
Rating : 8.5B, Gilardino
Talent : Sure, Gigliotti is now known across Europe for scoring spectacular goals every now and then. But he also scores ugly goals and he’s basically one of the purest goal scorers in L1. He doesn’t have one striking quality except his clinical finishes.
Season : He’s had zero support this season in Troyes and yet he should finish in double digits goals. A truly succesful loan for him and Troyes. Not sure how Monaco felt he wouldn’t help this year though.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...avid-gigliotti

17 (10) Ronald Zubar, 86, CB, Marseille
Rating : 8.5C, Gallas
Talent : Zubar is a good all around defenseman with excellent offensive set plays qualities. However, he’s been hesitant at times defensively. His focus is not the best.
Season : Really not a great season for Ronald with Marseille. I fully expect him to grow into a much more solid defenseman.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance..._zubarbadaboom

18 (U) Ismael Bangoura, 85, ST, Le Mans, Guinea
Rating : 8C, Eto’o
Talent : Bangoura’s talent is not overly impressive, other than his outstanding physical tools, but he has the nose for the goal.
Season : I must confess I wasn’t sold, and I’m probably still not on his talent. However, he has scored 11 goals this season and shown some good finishing. Next season will probably show how good he is.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60skEBix6K0

19 (U) Ederson, 86, AM, Nice, Brazil
Rating : 8C, Juninho
Talent : Ederson is a talented midfielder known for his HUGE shot. He has shown good passing ability as well.
Season : He’s been the best field player for Nice this season, shown progress in every aspect. And of course, he’ll always score these rockets from time to time.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDpTYWy3T50

20 (U) Habib Bellaid, 86, CB, Strasbourg (L2)
Rating : 8.5C, Blanc
Talent : Habib is a technically sound defenseman, with excellent heading ability.
Season : Bellaid has been the cornerstone of Strasbourg’s defense under Papin. Strasbourg is in the process of promoting and he should see L1 action soon.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...01-uefa-belaid

21 (U) Steve Mandanda, 85, GK, Le Havre (L2)
Rating : 8B, Dida
Talent : Mandanda is a very athletic goalie with excellent reflexes and a big physical impact.
Season : Another good season with Le Havre, but now that it’s pretty much a given they won’t promote, I think it’s a very good possibility that he moves to a L1 team.

22 (26) Simon Pouplin, 85, GK, Rennes
Rating : 8B, Coupet
Talent : Pouplin is a very solid young goalie that has now tons of experience. Good reflexes is his main quality. At times a bit hesitant in the air.
Season : He isn’t dazzling like Lloris but he is a youngster that without making any noise has been stellar at times.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1UIgbZxcVA

23 (U) Clement Chantome, 87, DM, PSG
Rating : 8B, Tiago
Talent : Chatome has good technique and poise all around. He has good tackling skills but also high quality passing.
Season : He took everyone by surprise and established himself as a starter early in the season. We’ll see next year if he can play at this level long term and what progress he can make.

24 (13) Claudiu Keseru, 86, ST, Nantes, Romania
Rating : 8.5C, Makaay
Talent : Watch out, this guy’s left foot is deadly. He has good speed, adequate physical tools, but his left foot is simply deadly. Good nose for the net. He is a bit egoistical on the field, like most scorers.
Season : As usual, he wasn’t played until Nantes’ season looked over. He managed to score some very important goals to entertain the possbility of coming back, but the new coach (third of the season) chose Diallo in the end, and now Nantes are in L1 most probably. The last time he spent a season with Nantes’ B team, he scored 18 goals in 17 games. Just a pure scorer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GL7udAiU6Yo

25 (U) Geoffrey Jourdren, 86, GK, Montpellier (L2)
Rating : 8.5C+, Barthez
Talent : Jourdren has always been compared to Barthez because of his natural talent, his body shape and because... he’s weird. Anyway, he has some of the best reflexes in french pro football and is excellent in the air.
Season : He now has established himself as L2’s best goalie with Mandanda. Montpellier look destined to relegation to France’s 3rd level, and I hope Geoffrey moves so that we see him in L1 action, where he deserves to be.

26 (U) Yassin Moutouakil, 86, RB, Chateauroux (L2)
Rating : 8B+, Sagnol
Talent : Moutouakil is easily the best RB in L2, but probably one of the best in all french pro football already. He’s showing maturity beyond his years. Good tackler, excellent crosser.
Season : Moutouakil was elected best RB of L2, and probably one of the best players in L2 as well. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like Chateauroux will play L1 action next season, so I hope he transfers to a bigger club this summer.

27 (40) Blaise Matuidi, 87, DM, Troyes
Rating : 8B, Makoun
Talent : Matuidi is a small DM that is a good tackler, but his forte is HUGE shots. He has a cannon.
Season : He had a much tougher season than last year, but scored twice in a huge game against Sedan to keep Troyes’ hopes alive.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...but-de-matuidi

28 (37) Kevin Monnet-Paquet, 88, ST, Lens
Rating : 8.5C, Papin
Talent : M-P is a good striker with good shooting skills. He’s the leader of the 88 generation and their clutch scorer.
Season : Kevin didn’t see much time, but the fact he’s getting minutes at his age on such a deep team is a testimony of his talent.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...e-contre-nancy

29 (36) Nicolas Maurice-Belay, 85, Sedan (on loan from Monaco)
Rating : 8.5C-, Henry
Talent : M-B is an elegant tall forward that likes to play explosive one touch football. His main problem is focus and consistency.
Season : He started very strong until disappearing with his whole team. I can’t see him play in Monaco next season with the depth they have. Another loan maybe?
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...-est-magique/1

30 (U) Freddy Guarin, 86, CM, St Etienne, Columbia
Rating : 8B, Fabregas
Talent : Guarin is a DM that plays all around the field. He’s all energy and has a good shot. His passing skills are very good too.
Season : He’s playing more and more in St Etienne. He was on a loan but has recently been signed by St Etienne for a very small sum. Good deal.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...oyesbut-guarin

31 (U) Boukary Drame, 85, LB, PSG
Rating : 7.5B, Clichy
Talent : Dramé is a solid LB with very good technical skills going forward. He is solid defensively, but has progress to make there.
Season : He was a starter than Rozehnal was transformed into a DM (Armand+Traore were CBs), but with Yepes’ injury, Rozehnal came back to CB with Traore and Armand took his spot back on the left. Since then, he’s barely seen minutes behind one of the best LB in the business.

32 (U) Sylvain Marveaux, 86, LM, Rennes
Rating : 7.5C+, Malouda
Talent : Marveaux has a marvelous left foot that he uses well on free kicks and set plays in general.
Season : He’s established himself as a regular, and it’s no small feat on a team that has a lot of offensive firepower.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CINKraVdUZY

33 (39) Yohan Cabaye, 86, DM, Lille
Rating : 7B+, Dacourt
Talent : Cabaye is an intelligent DM that can pass and shoot well enough to create havoc once in a while.
Season : Puel made a lot less of tunrovers this season, and Cabaye saw much less time than previously. Still he’s had a positive impact every time he had to.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJq6qmh1jME

34 (18) Taye Taiwo, 85, LB, Marseille
Rating : 8C-, Taribo West
Talent : Taiwo is exposed more and more defensively because he makes bonehead plays. Still he’s a physical specimen and has one of the hardest shots in football. He’s money on penalty shots.
Season : He’s still OM’s undisputable LB. Ups and downs, like his whole team.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HGID32zvh8

35 (U) Mathieu Coutadeur, 86, DM, Le Mans
Rating : 7.5B, Toulalan
Talent : Coutadeur is a newcomer DM, with excellent success in challenges. He is a great tackler and should develop very well soon.
Season : He’s now a fixture of Le Mans’ exciting team. He turned a lot of heads, but he was hyped in football circles before he played in L1.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktUpgrpv0lM

36 (28) Steven Thicot, 87, CB, Sedan (on loan from Nantes)
Rating : 8.5D+, Desailly
Talent : Thicot is a physical freak with good heading ability and great awareness. His main quality is leadership. Natural born leader.
Season : Thicot nearly didn’t play in his loan, so it was completely useless, especially since Nantes struggled mightily.

37 (U) Benoit Costil, 87, GK, Caen (L2)
Rating : 8.5D, Buffon
Talent : Costil is a huge talent, I’ve seen him play many times with my own eyes (he comes to my work place often to play with the future stars of tomorrow). Excellent reflexes, great body control, good in the air, etc...
Season : Hasn’t seen a minute in L2, he had a great run in the Coup de France until an awful game in Valenciennes. Up 1-0, Caen let in two goals, two mistakes by Costil. Definitely not good for his confidence.

38 (U) Didier Digard, 86, DM/CB, Le Havre (L2)
Rating : 7A, Deschamps
Talent : Digard is the perfect one dimensionnal DM. He tackles very well, leads his team in any situation and is very intelligent. This season however, he’s seen plenty of time at CB, and he surprised everyone with strong play.
Season : His position change hasn’t affected his performances, which are still very good. Another guy that would benefit from playing in L1.

39 (U) Youssouf Mulumbu, 87, RB/DM, PSG
Rating : 7B+, Essien
Talent : Physical specimen, Mulumbu was a good DM that turned into a surprisingly good RB. Very quick and athletic.
Season : He was a DM that was seeing minutes here and there under Lacombe, but has now become a fixture with Le Guen as RB. He still needs to progress in some aspects, as Mansare ridiculed him the other day. Le Guen had to put Mendy on the field to shut down the Toulouse winger.

40 (21) Olivier Veigneau, 85, LB/DM, Nice (on loan from Monaco)
Rating : 7.5B, L. Diarra
Talent : Veigneau is solid defensively, but can be spectacular offensively thanks to a great shot and nice passking skills (including long balls).
Season : He was loaned to Nice to get some playing time, but he unfortunately didn’t get much. We’ll see if Monaco takes him back, but I think he could be very useful.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EO4MK...elated&search=

41 (U) Razak Boukari, 87, LM, Lens
Rating : 7.5C+, Malouda
Talent : Boukari is a very good winger that needs to work on his endurance. Good dribbling and good speed.
Season : He played well in the first few months until being benched. Since then he has rarely played.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...rejourneearuna

42 (U) Quentin Westberg, 86, GK, Troyes, USA
Rating : 7.5C+, Pouplin
Talent : Westberg is a very complete goalie. Good on the line, good in the air.
Season : Locked behind Troyes’ starter Le Crom, Quentin could see time next season is Troyes is relegated. When Le Crom was injured, Westberg played a few games (he was average) until he also injured himself. His bad luck cost him some minutes. He chose to play for the US national team.

43 (U) Juan-Pablo Pino, 87, AM/ST, Monaco, Columbia
Rating : 8D, Gakpe
Talent : A lot of dribbling ability and good speed.
Season : He hasn’t seen much time but has made an impact when he had the chance.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdbXo_5M6dM

44 (U) Babacar Gueye, 86, ST, Metz (L2), Senegal
Rating : 7.5B+, Adebayor
Talent : The Metz striker has a lot of tools. Good headers, good shot, etc...
Season : 16 goals this year in L2 is quite impressive. Of course his team was on a roll, losing only twice the whole season.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...ves-deroff-csc

45 (27) Mathieu Debuchy, 85, DM/RM, Lille
Rating : 7B, Leko
Talent : Debuchy is still that tall guy with a heavy shot and good mindset.
Season : Has seen much less time than the past seasons. Played well when he had to.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...-lille-debuchy

46 (U) Dimitri Payet, 87, LM/ST, Nantes
Rating : 7.5C+, Monterrubio
Talent : Payet has a nice shot and overall a good technique.
Season : I’m not sold on the guy, but he has produced some key goals for Nantes and the U21 NT. Maybe he’ll have more time in L2 next season.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7G3PGnU9FSY

47 (15) Rudy Haddad, 85, AM/ST, Valenciennes (on loan from PSG)
Rating : 8.5D-, Kaka
Talent : The talent is there and undeniable. Dribbling, shooting, passing...
Season : But the guy just isn’t producing. Not playing well in PSG in a few minutes a game every four weeks is understandable. But playing 25+ games in Valenciennes and being useless is not (1 goal). He looks like a missed prospect to me. I don’t quite understand why he can’t feel comfortable. He seems to play without any intensity.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...cu_rudy-haddad

48 (35) Loic Perrin, 85, CM, St Etienne
Rating : 7B+, Lampard
Talent : Perrin is a tall CM that likes to participate in the offense thanks to good passes and a big shot.
Season : He didn’t see much time. Rumors about a possible move to Arsenal would do a lot of good to him.

49 (U) Stephane M’Bia, 86, DM/CB, Rennes, Cameroon
Rating : 6.5B+, Desailly
Talent : M’Bia is a tough customer and is a good tackler. He can score a few goals a season too.
Season : He is now a regular in Rennes at both his positions.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...ch-rennes-lyon

50 (U) Denis Oliech, 85, ST, Nantes, Kenya
Rating : 6.5B, B. Kalou
Talent : Oliech has a lot of dribbling skills and a good shot. His problem is that he can’t put it together over a stretch of games and his finish is just not good enough right now.
Season : Again he hasn’t seen enough time in Nantes. Maybe next year in L2.
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...1_oliechamiens

04-30-2007, 10:05 AM	#55
Evilo Kung Fu Penguin Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: France Country: Posts: 19,890 vCash: 1431	*L1 Top 50 prospects May 2007* In order to describe each player’s potential and chance of reaching it, I put up a mark similar to HF’s ratings : From 1 to 10 ranks the potential of the player (10 being a Maradona or Pele) From A to F the chance of reaching it (A being there already) Next to the rating, you’ll find the player’s ranking a year ago and the name of a pro or former pro, whose style is the closest to the style of the prospect. Main graduates (84 born) : Mavuba, Grax, Berthod, J. Faty, Chamakh, Fae, etc.... Main transfered players : Mvuemba (Portsmouth) 1 (1) Karim Benzema, 87, ST, Lyon Rating : 9B+, Ronaldo Talent : A very rare combination of speed, dribbling, power and accuracy around the net, Benzema has the makings of a superstar. He seems level-headed too. Season : Benzema was impressive when he played center forward, he was impressive when he played left winger, he was impressive anytime he stepped foot on the field. Yet, he spent most of the season on the bench or injured, which was quite frustrating. All his injuries were muscular, so we’ll have to see if that could hinder his developpment. He also had his first national team cap, and he scored a goal. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMlOITyWSsg 2 (2) Samir Nasri, 87, AM, Marseille Rating : 9B+, Aimar Talent : Nasri makes every play at full speed. He’s damn fast, has great dribbling skills and is above all a passer. He plays with both feet with ease, and can score some highlight-reels any time. His style is similar to Aimar, but he’s developping some intelligence in the tempo he sets in the games that is reminiscent of the great ZZ. Season : Nasri stepped up to another level this year, and he’s now among the really best players in the league now. He could really be #1 in this ranking above Benzema, but I think he had more time and confidence to show his stuff, and I feel Benzema will be better in the long run. He had his first NT cap and assisted on the goal, having a great game. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTo6xJoBVlI 3 (3) Hatem Ben Arfa, 87, AM, Lyon Rating : 9.5C+, Ronaldinho/Kaka Talent : Ben Arfa is easily the most talented prospect in all of L1, and probably the most talented player in all of L1. He does things that nobody even thinks about doing in training. He has speed, dribbling like few others, a good shot. His weakness right now is both defensively, and mostly mentally (he lacks maturity). He often either tries to do to much, or doesn’t try individual stuff in fear of being benched. His game is based on individual difference, so he has to find the right balance. Season : He nearly didn’t play before april in L1. Almost everytime he came onto the field, he added a dimension Lyon lacked. However, he is more fitted to play in a 4-4-2 either behind the two strikers or as a shadow striker (Kaka positionning), not Lyon’s usual 4-5-1 (or 4-3-3). His play recently showed his amazing potential, like his highlight reel goal against Sedan showed. I think he has to change team, but he signed an extension. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Hg1jt8wNm8 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f8tgZ...elated&search= http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZBspt_wxkA 4 (17) Rémy Riou, 87, GK, Lorient (on loan from Lyon) Rating : 9B+, Coupet Talent : Riou is just a perfect goalie with exceptionnal reflexes and a fearless attitude. He’s very relax, and inspires confidence in his teammates. Season : Riou was pencilled a Lorient’s third goalie. But in a crazy game in mid-season, the #1 and #2 goalies were respectively hurt and sent off. Riou took over the following game (away at OM, 1-0 win) and never looked back. Without Riou in the lineup, Lorient took 21 goals in 16 games. With him in nets, they only got scored on 10 times in 18 games. The difference is huge. Riou is probably the closest thing to MVP this season with Lloris from Nice. Both goalies completely took their teams on their backs. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...s-lorient-2007 5 (25) Hugo Lloris, 86, GK, Nice Rating : 9.5B, Buffon Talent : Lloris has excellent qualities : very very good reflexes, he closes angles very fast and is always aware of everything that happens in the box. He can go out and catch any ball that is in the air. To score on him, shooting near the posts isn’t enough. He’s also extremely calm and poised. Season : Lloris had a better season than anyone in L1 this year. He was the MVP of Nice (and probably of L1) and is the only reason Nice is not relegated at season’s end. There are talks of him moving to the biggest european clubs and if doesn’t happen this year, it will surely happen next summer, especially if he has another incredible season like this. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...vp_niceauxerre 6 (4) Jérémy Menez, 87, AM/ST, Monaco Rating : 9C, C. Ronaldo Talent : Menez is one heck of a talent. He has extremely impressive dribbling skills and now uses them appropriately. He has a very good shot, is very good on free kicks and can play any forward position. His upside is tremendous. His only weakness is mental right now. Season : Menez had to adapt to a new team, and the whole team was struggling. However, Menez was always a starter and when he found form, the whole team started working. He’s proved to be extremely important and his chemistry with Meriem could transform Monaco into a serious contender. One of the best players of the second half of the season. Keep in mind he once was the youngest player to sign a pro contract, the youngest to score and the youngest to score a hattrick. Arsenal, ManU and Juventus had contacted him before this. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...de-monacolille 7 (U) Bafe Gomis, 85, ST, St Etienne, Rating : 8.5B, Drogba Talent : Gomis is a rare talent mostly because he tries things (and succeeds) that most strikers wouldn’t try. He surprises defensemen and goalies with sudden shots, backheels and overhead kicks. He is tough to move and is a tough task for defenses. Season : Gomis showed glimpses of his talent in the first part of the season. But when Piquionne moved to Monaco, Gomis was suddenly a starter and he played twice better than Piquionne. He’s been absolutely amazing and has scored 10 goals in 16 starts. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...omis-asse-sete http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...int-etienne-02 8 (29) Serge Gakpe, 87, AM, Monaco Rating : 8.5B, Vicente Talent : Gakpe is the pure winger that has dribbling and speed qualities. He’s relatively small, but is tough to defend. He always thinks pass first. Season : He was the best player in the league for the first 7-8 games but slowly disappeared. Still impressive. He needs to work on his consistency and endurance. The main problem is Monaco’s impressive depth. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...ba_serge-gakpe 9 (U) Yoan Gouffran, 86, AM/ST, Caen (L2) Rating : 8.5B, Wiltord Talent : Gouffran is exactly like a young Wiltord : he can play any attacking spot (striker, left winger, right wing, AM), has a huge shot, lots of speed and the will to succeed step by step. He is very intelligent, has progressed every year, and his ability to play with both feet very well, and his quality on header make him a very very attractive commodity. Season : He had a very good season, scoring 12 goals already. He has been used at every forward position and played well every time. He’s been Caen’s biggest threat. If Caen comes to L1 next year (great possibility at this point), he may stay one more year. Every big team (Chelsea, Arsenal, Valencia among others) in Europe has had their sights on this guy. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B880eh_qZms 10 (U) Gabriel Obertan, 89, AM/ST, Bordeaux Rating : 9C, Henry Talent : Obertan is a new comer, but boy what a talent. The comparisons with pre-Arsenal Henry (the winger) are absolutely valid based on his speed and most of all dribbling ability. Obertan is making L1 defensemen look like pylons every time he plays, and he’s only 17! His weaknesses are obviously his lack of finishing (one goal this season in 15 games) and his defensive work. But both should come with age too (the same things were said about Henry). Season : He’s been trusted a lot by Ricardo. He has put guys like Dalmat in the stands. One goal, plenty of dangerous actions and a name that has journalists drooling. Bordeaux have a great future if they can find a decent striker because with Obertan on the left and the hyped Henri Saivet on the right, they’re going to be unstoppable up front. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nH7nl9VZWfo 11 (7) Younes Kaboul, 86, CB, Auxerre Rating : 8.5B, Blanc Talent : Kaboul has tremendous potential. A real physical presence, extremely good on offensive set plays, he is a natural leader with very good technical skills. His main problem is focus and consistency. Season : He had some tough games with Auxerre’s terrible defense. He also spent some time injured. He has found his groove recently, which has suddenly plenty of teams calling for a summer transfer. He should move to Lyon, with Tottenham, Liverpool showing interest. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...rnee-ligue-1/1 12 (5) Cristian “cebello” Rodriguez, 85, AM, PSG, Uruguay Rating : 9C-, Maradona Talent : Rodriguez is one of the most talented players in L1. He has speed, excellent dribbling and passing ability and good shot. His main problem is consistency and openning his eyes to his teammates at times. Season : Lacombe didn’t use him much, but Le Guen loves him and makes him play nearly every game, either as a starter or as a sub. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atV05axR6_o 13 (12) David N’Gog, 89, ST, PSG Rating : 9C, Adriano/Trezeguet Talent : N’Gog is one of the most hyped striker since I can remember. He’s fast, he’s strong and he’s money in front of the net. Season : N’Gog finally saw some pro minutes and he scored in his Coupe de France debut against Sochaux. He was the most dangerous PSG player in that game. Everytime PSG officials talk about the future, they talk about David N’Gog. He was signed to a contract this year because Chelsea and others were sending him proposals. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...x-psg-280207/1 14 (9) Jimmy Briand, 85, ST, Rennes Rating : 8.5B- Talent : Briand has a lot of tools. He’s strong and fast, he has excellent technique and can score some beauties. What is frustrating is that he could be much better if he could focus better. He’s an intelligent player on the field and always thinks team first. Season : He’s been more consistant this season, especially in the second half (5 goals in 13 games, 8 overall on the season). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20kyV8h_540 15 (U) André-Pierre Gignac, 85, ST, Lorient Rating : 8B-, Drogba/Elmander Talent : Gignac is the kind of guy that hurts the defense of your team. He’s strong as a bull, quite fast for his size and he never gives up on a play. He has a very nice right foot, but his left one isn’t too great. Season : 8 goals, 4 assists for a guy that was playing in France’s 3rd level last season, that’s not too bad. Domenech has considered him for the NT, at least he said so. He’s in touch with several european and french teams, but Lorient doesn’t want to see him go. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...o/xxnoz_gignac 16 (16) David Gigliotti, 85, ST, Troyes (on loan from Monaco) Rating : 8.5B, Gilardino Talent : Sure, Gigliotti is now known across Europe for scoring spectacular goals every now and then. But he also scores ugly goals and he’s basically one of the purest goal scorers in L1. He doesn’t have one striking quality except his clinical finishes. Season : He’s had zero support this season in Troyes and yet he should finish in double digits goals. A truly succesful loan for him and Troyes. Not sure how Monaco felt he wouldn’t help this year though. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...avid-gigliotti 17 (10) Ronald Zubar, 86, CB, Marseille Rating : 8.5C, Gallas Talent : Zubar is a good all around defenseman with excellent offensive set plays qualities. However, he’s been hesitant at times defensively. His focus is not the best. Season : Really not a great season for Ronald with Marseille. I fully expect him to grow into a much more solid defenseman. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance..._zubarbadaboom 18 (U) Ismael Bangoura, 85, ST, Le Mans, Guinea Rating : 8C, Eto’o Talent : Bangoura’s talent is not overly impressive, other than his outstanding physical tools, but he has the nose for the goal. Season : I must confess I wasn’t sold, and I’m probably still not on his talent. However, he has scored 11 goals this season and shown some good finishing. Next season will probably show how good he is. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=60skEBix6K0 19 (U) Ederson, 86, AM, Nice, Brazil Rating : 8C, Juninho Talent : Ederson is a talented midfielder known for his HUGE shot. He has shown good passing ability as well. Season : He’s been the best field player for Nice this season, shown progress in every aspect. And of course, he’ll always score these rockets from time to time. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDpTYWy3T50 20 (U) Habib Bellaid, 86, CB, Strasbourg (L2) Rating : 8.5C, Blanc Talent : Habib is a technically sound defenseman, with excellent heading ability. Season : Bellaid has been the cornerstone of Strasbourg’s defense under Papin. Strasbourg is in the process of promoting and he should see L1 action soon. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...01-uefa-belaid 21 (U) Steve Mandanda, 85, GK, Le Havre (L2) Rating : 8B, Dida Talent : Mandanda is a very athletic goalie with excellent reflexes and a big physical impact. Season : Another good season with Le Havre, but now that it’s pretty much a given they won’t promote, I think it’s a very good possibility that he moves to a L1 team. 22 (26) Simon Pouplin, 85, GK, Rennes Rating : 8B, Coupet Talent : Pouplin is a very solid young goalie that has now tons of experience. Good reflexes is his main quality. At times a bit hesitant in the air. Season : He isn’t dazzling like Lloris but he is a youngster that without making any noise has been stellar at times. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1UIgbZxcVA 23 (U) Clement Chantome, 87, DM, PSG Rating : 8B, Tiago Talent : Chatome has good technique and poise all around. He has good tackling skills but also high quality passing. Season : He took everyone by surprise and established himself as a starter early in the season. We’ll see next year if he can play at this level long term and what progress he can make. 24 (13) Claudiu Keseru, 86, ST, Nantes, Romania Rating : 8.5C, Makaay Talent : Watch out, this guy’s left foot is deadly. He has good speed, adequate physical tools, but his left foot is simply deadly. Good nose for the net. He is a bit egoistical on the field, like most scorers. Season : As usual, he wasn’t played until Nantes’ season looked over. He managed to score some very important goals to entertain the possbility of coming back, but the new coach (third of the season) chose Diallo in the end, and now Nantes are in L1 most probably. The last time he spent a season with Nantes’ B team, he scored 18 goals in 17 games. Just a pure scorer. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GL7udAiU6Yo 25 (U) Geoffrey Jourdren, 86, GK, Montpellier (L2) Rating : 8.5C+, Barthez Talent : Jourdren has always been compared to Barthez because of his natural talent, his body shape and because... he’s weird. Anyway, he has some of the best reflexes in french pro football and is excellent in the air. Season : He now has established himself as L2’s best goalie with Mandanda. Montpellier look destined to relegation to France’s 3rd level, and I hope Geoffrey moves so that we see him in L1 action, where he deserves to be. 26 (U) Yassin Moutouakil, 86, RB, Chateauroux (L2) Rating : 8B+, Sagnol Talent : Moutouakil is easily the best RB in L2, but probably one of the best in all french pro football already. He’s showing maturity beyond his years. Good tackler, excellent crosser. Season : Moutouakil was elected best RB of L2, and probably one of the best players in L2 as well. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like Chateauroux will play L1 action next season, so I hope he transfers to a bigger club this summer. 27 (40) Blaise Matuidi, 87, DM, Troyes Rating : 8B, Makoun Talent : Matuidi is a small DM that is a good tackler, but his forte is HUGE shots. He has a cannon. Season : He had a much tougher season than last year, but scored twice in a huge game against Sedan to keep Troyes’ hopes alive. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...but-de-matuidi 28 (37) Kevin Monnet-Paquet, 88, ST, Lens Rating : 8.5C, Papin Talent : M-P is a good striker with good shooting skills. He’s the leader of the 88 generation and their clutch scorer. Season : Kevin didn’t see much time, but the fact he’s getting minutes at his age on such a deep team is a testimony of his talent. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...e-contre-nancy 29 (36) Nicolas Maurice-Belay, 85, Sedan (on loan from Monaco) Rating : 8.5C-, Henry Talent : M-B is an elegant tall forward that likes to play explosive one touch football. His main problem is focus and consistency. Season : He started very strong until disappearing with his whole team. I can’t see him play in Monaco next season with the depth they have. Another loan maybe? http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...-est-magique/1 30 (U) Freddy Guarin, 86, CM, St Etienne, Columbia Rating : 8B, Fabregas Talent : Guarin is a DM that plays all around the field. He’s all energy and has a good shot. His passing skills are very good too. Season : He’s playing more and more in St Etienne. He was on a loan but has recently been signed by St Etienne for a very small sum. Good deal. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...oyesbut-guarin 31 (U) Boukary Drame, 85, LB, PSG Rating : 7.5B, Clichy Talent : Dramé is a solid LB with very good technical skills going forward. He is solid defensively, but has progress to make there. Season : He was a starter than Rozehnal was transformed into a DM (Armand+Traore were CBs), but with Yepes’ injury, Rozehnal came back to CB with Traore and Armand took his spot back on the left. Since then, he’s barely seen minutes behind one of the best LB in the business. 32 (U) Sylvain Marveaux, 86, LM, Rennes Rating : 7.5C+, Malouda Talent : Marveaux has a marvelous left foot that he uses well on free kicks and set plays in general. Season : He’s established himself as a regular, and it’s no small feat on a team that has a lot of offensive firepower. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CINKraVdUZY 33 (39) Yohan Cabaye, 86, DM, Lille Rating : 7B+, Dacourt Talent : Cabaye is an intelligent DM that can pass and shoot well enough to create havoc once in a while. Season : Puel made a lot less of tunrovers this season, and Cabaye saw much less time than previously. Still he’s had a positive impact every time he had to. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJq6qmh1jME 34 (18) Taye Taiwo, 85, LB, Marseille Rating : 8C-, Taribo West Talent : Taiwo is exposed more and more defensively because he makes bonehead plays. Still he’s a physical specimen and has one of the hardest shots in football. He’s money on penalty shots. Season : He’s still OM’s undisputable LB. Ups and downs, like his whole team. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HGID32zvh8 35 (U) Mathieu Coutadeur, 86, DM, Le Mans Rating : 7.5B, Toulalan Talent : Coutadeur is a newcomer DM, with excellent success in challenges. He is a great tackler and should develop very well soon. Season : He’s now a fixture of Le Mans’ exciting team. He turned a lot of heads, but he was hyped in football circles before he played in L1. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktUpgrpv0lM 36 (28) Steven Thicot, 87, CB, Sedan (on loan from Nantes) Rating : 8.5D+, Desailly Talent : Thicot is a physical freak with good heading ability and great awareness. His main quality is leadership. Natural born leader. Season : Thicot nearly didn’t play in his loan, so it was completely useless, especially since Nantes struggled mightily. 37 (U) Benoit Costil, 87, GK, Caen (L2) Rating : 8.5D, Buffon Talent : Costil is a huge talent, I’ve seen him play many times with my own eyes (he comes to my work place often to play with the future stars of tomorrow). Excellent reflexes, great body control, good in the air, etc... Season : Hasn’t seen a minute in L2, he had a great run in the Coup de France until an awful game in Valenciennes. Up 1-0, Caen let in two goals, two mistakes by Costil. Definitely not good for his confidence. 38 (U) Didier Digard, 86, DM/CB, Le Havre (L2) Rating : 7A, Deschamps Talent : Digard is the perfect one dimensionnal DM. He tackles very well, leads his team in any situation and is very intelligent. This season however, he’s seen plenty of time at CB, and he surprised everyone with strong play. Season : His position change hasn’t affected his performances, which are still very good. Another guy that would benefit from playing in L1. 39 (U) Youssouf Mulumbu, 87, RB/DM, PSG Rating : 7B+, Essien Talent : Physical specimen, Mulumbu was a good DM that turned into a surprisingly good RB. Very quick and athletic. Season : He was a DM that was seeing minutes here and there under Lacombe, but has now become a fixture with Le Guen as RB. He still needs to progress in some aspects, as Mansare ridiculed him the other day. Le Guen had to put Mendy on the field to shut down the Toulouse winger. 40 (21) Olivier Veigneau, 85, LB/DM, Nice (on loan from Monaco) Rating : 7.5B, L. Diarra Talent : Veigneau is solid defensively, but can be spectacular offensively thanks to a great shot and nice passking skills (including long balls). Season : He was loaned to Nice to get some playing time, but he unfortunately didn’t get much. We’ll see if Monaco takes him back, but I think he could be very useful. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EO4MK...elated&search= 41 (U) Razak Boukari, 87, LM, Lens Rating : 7.5C+, Malouda Talent : Boukari is a very good winger that needs to work on his endurance. Good dribbling and good speed. Season : He played well in the first few months until being benched. Since then he has rarely played. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...rejourneearuna 42 (U) Quentin Westberg, 86, GK, Troyes, USA Rating : 7.5C+, Pouplin Talent : Westberg is a very complete goalie. Good on the line, good in the air. Season : Locked behind Troyes’ starter Le Crom, Quentin could see time next season is Troyes is relegated. When Le Crom was injured, Westberg played a few games (he was average) until he also injured himself. His bad luck cost him some minutes. He chose to play for the US national team. 43 (U) Juan-Pablo Pino, 87, AM/ST, Monaco, Columbia Rating : 8D, Gakpe Talent : A lot of dribbling ability and good speed. Season : He hasn’t seen much time but has made an impact when he had the chance. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdbXo_5M6dM 44 (U) Babacar Gueye, 86, ST, Metz (L2), Senegal Rating : 7.5B+, Adebayor Talent : The Metz striker has a lot of tools. Good headers, good shot, etc... Season : 16 goals this year in L2 is quite impressive. Of course his team was on a roll, losing only twice the whole season. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...ves-deroff-csc 45 (27) Mathieu Debuchy, 85, DM/RM, Lille Rating : 7B, Leko Talent : Debuchy is still that tall guy with a heavy shot and good mindset. Season : Has seen much less time than the past seasons. Played well when he had to. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...-lille-debuchy 46 (U) Dimitri Payet, 87, LM/ST, Nantes Rating : 7.5C+, Monterrubio Talent : Payet has a nice shot and overall a good technique. Season : I’m not sold on the guy, but he has produced some key goals for Nantes and the U21 NT. Maybe he’ll have more time in L2 next season. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7G3PGnU9FSY 47 (15) Rudy Haddad, 85, AM/ST, Valenciennes (on loan from PSG) Rating : 8.5D-, Kaka Talent : The talent is there and undeniable. Dribbling, shooting, passing... Season : But the guy just isn’t producing. Not playing well in PSG in a few minutes a game every four weeks is understandable. But playing 25+ games in Valenciennes and being useless is not (1 goal). He looks like a missed prospect to me. I don’t quite understand why he can’t feel comfortable. He seems to play without any intensity. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...cu_rudy-haddad 48 (35) Loic Perrin, 85, CM, St Etienne Rating : 7B+, Lampard Talent : Perrin is a tall CM that likes to participate in the offense thanks to good passes and a big shot. Season : He didn’t see much time. Rumors about a possible move to Arsenal would do a lot of good to him. 49 (U) Stephane M’Bia, 86, DM/CB, Rennes, Cameroon Rating : 6.5B+, Desailly Talent : M’Bia is a tough customer and is a good tackler. He can score a few goals a season too. Season : He is now a regular in Rennes at both his positions. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...ch-rennes-lyon 50 (U) Denis Oliech, 85, ST, Nantes, Kenya Rating : 6.5B, B. Kalou Talent : Oliech has a lot of dribbling skills and a good shot. His problem is that he can’t put it together over a stretch of games and his finish is just not good enough right now. Season : Again he hasn’t seen enough time in Nantes. Maybe next year in L2. http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance...1_oliechamiens __________________ http://ligue1prospects.theoffside.com/ Last edited by Evilo: 04-30-2007 at 01:16 PM.