The major European football league seasons have been over for months, the 2014 World Cup has concluded, and the next iteration of EA's FIFA franchise is on the way. Clubs have returned to training and started playing preseason matches, which means FIFA 15 will be upon us soon.
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To set up the season, I'll be taking a look at several things we can expect and hope for in the next title, starting with player ratings and club rosters. A lot changed last year and during this summer as players' stocks have risen and fallen, and the game will need to keep up to reflect reality.
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Here are the five Barclays Premier League players who I think are most deserving of a rating upgrade:
Nemanja Matic: Current Rating 81, Suggested 85
Chelsea's more defensive-minded, 6'4" central midfielder is rated pretty lowly compared to his ability and the performances he put on over the past season. He only came to the club in January from Benfica, having been sent the other way years ago in the David Luiz transfer, but is back and much improved compared to the youngster that left England.
Since his return, he's been a force in the middle of the park for the Blues, winning the ball well and keeping possession with strength and footwork, in addition to demonstrating a perhaps surprising range of passing and astute vision. An 81 is simply too low for how good he has been, and should be rated several points higher with improvements to Ball Control, Standing Tackle, and Jumping in particular.
Tim Howard: Current Rating 81, Suggested 85
Everton's goalkeeper has been a steady, capable hand for years between the posts and he demonstrated his top class ability at the World Cup for the U.S. He bailed his national side out time and time again, and though he couldn't stop them all, Howard demonstrated sound positioning and great reflexes. He's among the best keepers in the world even if wouldn't make your top five, and an 81 rating simply does not reflect his ability.
Luke Shaw: Current Rating 74, Suggested 79
The 19 year-old was the subject of a nearly £30 million move to Manchester United from Southampton in recent weeks, and will join Louis Van Gaal's side as the experienced manager tries to reinvent the English giant, which finished 7th last season. Shaw put on impressive displays for his boyhood club, performing as a more attack-minded fullback happy to join in the rush and put in a cross to create a chance.
I understand that as a teenager you can't be sure about consistent reliability, but after a full season of solid performances and the potential to grow, Shaw deserves much more than his 74 rating (and will likely get it).
Aaron Ramsey: Current Rating 82, Suggested 84
Ramsey already received a steady increase in rating over the past season, as he was a revelation for Arsenal when fit, but likely deserves an even higher overall score. The young Welshman did it all, from strong tackles to wonder goals for the Gunners, popping up in the box to score to the tune of 10 goals in just 23 appearances. He will need to avoid injury this year, but his form was probably better than that of an 82 rated player.
Raheem Sterling: Current Rating 79, Suggested 82
The young winger came into his own for Liverpool last season, often starting for Liverpool and racking up 10 goals and seven assists in 30 total matches in all competitions. The pacey 19 year old still has plenty of room to develop, but brings useful attributes for wide play and is a good dribbler. He deserves a modest rating increase, and will compete with new Liverpool signing Lazar Markovic and whoever else the club brings in.
