Kylian Mbappé’s potential career at Real Madrid is at risk of becoming a futile endeavor, as highlighted by Jonathan Wilson. The president of the European champions, Florentino Pérez, has a well-documented obsession with acquiring high-profile, expensive players. However, this tendency often proves detrimental not only to the club but also to the players themselves. Critics argue that the concept of "club DNA" is a myth. With constant changes in management, player rosters, and administrative staff, how can a club maintain a unique identity? How can Tottenham be characterized as "Spursy"? What accounts for Bayern Munich's reputation for luck, or Ajax's commitment to a particular style of play? While the notion of club identity may seem elusive, there are instances where the reasons behind a club's behavior become glaringly apparent. Real Madrid's actions can largely be attributed to the influence of Pérez, who has been at the helm for nearly all but three years since 2000. His preference for acquiring renowned, costly footballers shapes the club's approach and culture. This dynamic raises questions about the long-term implications for players like Mbappé, who may find their careers at the club hindered by Pérez's relentless pursuit of star power. The situation underscores the complexities of balancing ambition with the need for a cohesive team identity, ultimately leaving fans and players alike to ponder the true cost of such a strategy.

Manchester City is currently facing a challenging period, having lost four consecutive matches for the first time in Pep Guardiola's managerial career. While it's important not to overreact, the nature of their struggles this season presents a new set of challenges for the team. Context is crucial here. Among the recent defeats, one was in the Carabao Cup and another in the Champions League, where City currently finds itself in 10th place in the group standings. Even if they fail to secure a top-eight finish that guarantees progression to the knockout stage, they are likely to at least reach the play-offs. Upcoming matches against Feyenoord at home, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain away, and Club Brugge at home will be critical. However, two of the recent losses occurred in the Premier League, against Bournemouth and Brighton, leaving City five points adrift of league leaders Liverpool. This situation has led to a growing sense that the team's once-dominant aura may be fading. While it would be premature to declare that Manchester City's reign is in jeopardy, the current struggles are certainly a cause for concern. The team has faced difficulties before, but the unfamiliarity of their current issues adds a layer of complexity to the situation.

The modern football landscape presents a troubling paradox: while the demanding schedule is taking a toll on players' bodies, it may inadvertently lead to a more competitive Premier League. Recently, Liverpool enjoyed a successful weekend, and the Premier League as a whole seemed to benefit as well. Although it was just one round of matches, the fact that three of the top four teams could potentially lose was refreshing. It suggested that the league might not be entirely dictated by financial power, hinting at a possible shift in dynamics. However, this season has also revealed a trend of uneven performances. Many teams, despite boasting talented rosters, have struggled to find their rhythm. The recent draw between Chelsea and Manchester United exemplified this, as the match was marked by limitations and a lack of quality. The overall impression this autumn is that numerous teams are filled with skilled players yet are not performing at their best. This commentary reflects on the current state of football, highlighting the tension between the packed schedule and the quality of play. The ongoing challenges may lead to a more unpredictable league, but they also raise concerns about the overall standard of the game.

**Refereeing Conspiracy Theories: Nonsense Rooted in Genuine Concerns** As fans increasingly feel alienated from the sport and clubs they cherish, often due to the influence of wealthy owners, they find themselves directing their frustrations toward a familiar target: referees. The latest weekend of football brought yet another wave of contentious debates surrounding VAR and officiating. During a match at Bournemouth, Arsenal supporters labeled referee Robert Jones as “a cheat” and accused the Premier League of being “corrupt.” The outrage on social media was even more pronounced. While complaints about referees are nothing new—historically, fans have called them “blind” or used expletives to express their disdain—the recent allegations of systemic corruption represent a notable shift in tone. This phenomenon may reflect the broader societal climate, characterized by distortions and paranoia fueled by a variety of populist figures, from José Mourinho to Donald Trump. The rise of social media has only exacerbated the spread of conspiracy theories, flourishing in the aftermath of the Covid pandemic. However, there may be deeper, more complex issues at play. In this evolving landscape, it’s essential to recognize that while the conspiracy theories surrounding refereeing may be unfounded, they often arise from legitimate fears and frustrations among fans. As the game continues to change, so too will the dynamics of how supporters engage with it, particularly regarding the officials who play a crucial role in its integrity.