As the year 2022 draws closer, let's take a look back at what's been happening in soccer this year.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of the year was the World Cup held in Qatar in the winter. After a fierce battle between the great and the good, Argentina, led by the outstanding performance of Lionel Messi, defeated France in the penalty shootout and won the long-lost Hercules Cup.
Lionel Messi's performance in this World Cup has been perfect, and Argentina has come out of the woods many times thanks to his goals and key passes. Even in the group stage, when they almost lost to Saudi Arabia, it was Messi's mastery of the game that stabilized the team. In the final, he and France's Kylian Mbappe showed off their skills and once again brought the game to a climax. Messi finally gathered the World Cup, Copa America, Olympic gold medal, Champions League, Ballon d'Or and many other honors, becoming a soccer legend like no other.
Meanwhile, Pele, known as the "King of Balls", died on December 29 in Sao Paulo at the age of 82 after his condition deteriorated during the World Cup. The legend, who won three World Cups, became a symbol of the Brazilian national team with his unparalleled skills and goal-scoring record.
Pele's death was a great loss to the soccer world. His "golden hook" became a classic, and he was named the world's best player in FIFA 2000, pushing the No. 10 jersey into a new era of soccer.
On the eve of this season's World Cup, Portuguese star Crow revealed his dissatisfaction in an interview and criticized Manchester United's internal management and coach Ten Hagar. This triggered dissatisfaction from United, which ultimately led to Crow's banishment from the club and the termination of his contract with United on Nov. 23, which led to Crow leaving the team.
Crowe's return to Manchester United has not been a smooth one, and although he once showed excellent scoring ability, the tactical arrangements of new coach Ten Hagar have gradually relegated him to the bench. Coupled with a decline in personal form, Crowe eventually chose to leave United and is rumored to be joining Saudi Arabian side Al Nasr.
Meanwhile, the transfer of Harland is undoubtedly the biggest highlight in this season's transfer market. Joining Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund, he proved his strength with goals, and at only 22 years old, he has become an indispensable attacker for the team.
