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Ángel Di María a tactical schemer focused more on structure than star quality | Jonathan Wilson

The Argentinian has often been underappreciated but he is the man who makes PSG’s bigger names tick and will be crucial in Sunday’s Champions League finalThe critical moment of Lionel Messi’s international career, perhaps, came a little after 1.30pm on a Saturday afternoon in Brasília. Argentina led Belgium 1-0 in their 2014 World Cup quarter‑final. They were in control, playing well. The forward line, as usual, felt a mismatch of extremely talented but not particularly complementary players, but with a solid and well-balanced midfield, it didn’t really seem to matter. Then Ángel Di María pulled his hamstring.Di María had a vital role in Alejandro Sabella’s side. Javier Mascherano mopped up in front of the back four. Lucas Biglia scuttled around...

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English football’s overseas arrivals who began with a Gabriel Jesus-style bang | Jamie Jackson

After the 19-year-old Brazilian’s stunning start for Manchester City, we pick out other overseas signings who stormed into the English game and find that a fast start does not necessarily lead to sustained successGabriel Jesus’s stellar start for Manchester City has dislodged Sergio Agüero from Pep Guardiola’s side. The 19-year-old Brazilian, a £27m signing from Palmeiras last month, scored on his full Premier League debut – at West Ham United – and twice in the following game, against Swansea City last Sunday. Here are five other overseas signings who stormed into the English game. Related: Gabriel Jesus affirms Pep Guardiola’s faith in his Manchester City vision Continue reading...

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