James Hartley

Senior Football Writer

James is a senior football writer with 15 years covering European football. He has reported from four World Cups and writes extensively on Champions League football for FootScoreNow.

7articles published

@james_hartley

Articles by James Hartley

Team News

VAR Official Cleared After Controversial Gesture in World Cup Match

VAR official Shaun Evans cleared of misconduct after hand gesture sparks speculation during Germany vs. Curacao match.

16 June 2026·4 min read

Analysis

The Beautiful Game Evolved: How Football Tactics Changed Everything in 2026

From high press to low block, from 4-4-2 to 3-4-3, tactical football has reached a new level of sophistication. Here is how the game has evolved and where it is heading.

14 June 2026·8 min read

Champions League

UEFA Champions League 2025/26: The Road to the Final

Europe's elite clubs chase Champions League glory. From the Swiss model group phase to the knockout rounds, here is who looks most dangerous heading into the business end.

14 June 2026·5 min read

Champions League

Champions League Final 2026: Real Madrid vs Manchester City — The Ultimate Showdown

Real Madrid and Manchester City met once again in the Champions League Final at the Allianz Arena in May 2026, delivering a night of drama that will be retold for decades. We break down every moment of one of the greatest finals in the competition's history.

31 May 2026·8 min read

Analysis

The High Press in 2026: Why Football's Most Demanding System Refuses to Die

Gegenpressing has dominated tactical discourse for a decade. As the game evolves, has high pressing reached its limits — or is it still the most effective system in modern football?

20 January 2026·7 min read

Player News

Rodri: Is Manchester City's Midfield Maestro the Best in the World?

Rodrigo Hernández Cascante — known simply as Rodri — won the Ballon d'Or in 2024, confirming what those who watched him closely already knew. We make the case for why the Manchester City and Spain midfielder is the most complete player of his generation.

15 January 2026·6 min read

Analysis

The Pressing Revolution: The Lasting Legacy of Klopp and Guardiola

Two men changed the way football is played across the globe. We examine the lasting tactical legacy of Jürgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola, and how their ideas have permeated every level of the game.

20 November 2025·8 min read

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