Artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT, has unveiled a lineup featuring the best football players of 2024 from Kosovo and Albania. While its selections in certain positions were surprising, they sparked debates and varied opinions.
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| The national football team of Albania above and that of Kosovo below |
A Remarkable Year for Kosovo and Albanian Football
The year 2024 proved to be highly positive for footballers from Kosovo and Albania. Many achieved significant milestones with their respective clubs and also excelled with the Albanian national team, which participated in the UEFA European Championship “Germany 2024.”
Several players stood out individually and collectively, securing trophies, awards, and leaving a lasting impression throughout the year.
In response to Telegrafi’s query, “Could you create the best lineup of 2024 featuring players from Kosovo and Albania?” ChatGPT’s response included some surprising choices:
“The best lineup of 2024 with players from Kosovo and Albania might look like this (based on recent performances at high levels),” it stated.
The Lineup: 4-3-3 Formation
Goalkeeper
- Arijanet Muric (Kosovo, Ipswich Town): A reliable and essential figure for his team.
Defenders
- Elseid Hysaj (Albania, Lazio): A defensive leader with vast international experience.
- Amir Rrahmani (Kosovo, Napoli): One of the best defenders in Serie A, a cornerstone in defense.
- Marash Kumbulla (Albania, Roma/Sassuolo): A young and promising center-back despite some injury setbacks.
- Fidan Aliti (Kosovo, Alanyaspor): A consistent performer on the left flank.
Midfielders
- Granit Xhaka (Kosovo/Albania, Bayer Leverkusen): A captain and midfield leader with extraordinary experience.
- Ylber Ramadani (Albania, Lecce): A hardworking midfielder capable of contributing in both defense and attack.
- Nedim Bajrami (Albania, Sassuolo/Rangers): A creative and technical midfielder with a sharp eye for passing.
Forwards
- Milot Rashica (Kosovo, Besiktas): A fast and technical player, dangerous from the wings.
- Vedat Muriqi (Kosovo, Mallorca): A top-class striker, among the best in La Liga.
- Myrto Uzuni (Albania, Granada): A forward in outstanding form in La Liga, consistently scoring goals.
Coach
- Sylvinho (Albania): For his successful leadership of the Albanian national team in 2024.
ChatGPT concluded, “This lineup combines experience, talent, and recent form of players from both nations,” before inviting suggestions for potential changes.
Debates and Notable Omissions
One immediate reaction was: “Why isn’t Edon Zhegrova included in this lineup?”
ChatGPT explained: “Edon Zhegrova is undoubtedly a remarkable talent and one of Kosovo’s most technically gifted players, especially for his performances with Lille in Ligue 1. The reason for his initial exclusion is the intense competition in attack, particularly from players like Milot Rashica and Myrto Uzuni, who made significant impacts for their teams this year.”
However, it suggested a possible revision: “Zhegrova could replace Rashica on the right wing of the attack. Rashica could then serve as an impactful substitute, bringing energy and speed from the bench. This change could make the attack more dynamic and give Zhegrova a chance to shine.”
Other Key Players Left Out
ChatGPT also addressed why players like Berat Gjimshiti, Kristjan Asllani, Mërđim Vojvoda, and Armando Broja were not part of the initial lineup.
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Berat Gjimshiti (Albania, Atalanta): A highly consistent defender in Serie A and a key figure for Albania. He could replace one of the current defenders, such as Kumbulla, given his leadership and extensive international experience.
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Kristjan Asllani (Albania, Inter): A talented midfielder still in the development phase. Although he has great potential, he’d face tough competition for a spot against Xhaka and Bajrami, who have greater experience and influence.
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Mërđim Vojvoda (Kosovo, Torino): A fast and dynamic player who performed well for Torino and could enrich any lineup.
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Armando Broja (Albania, Chelsea/Everton): A striker with exceptional potential. However, due to recent injuries, he’s still in recovery and faces strong competition for a starting role.
ChatGPT concluded: “In a possible 4-3-3 formation, adjustments involving these players could be made based on their form and fitness. This lineup is flexible and can adapt depending on recent performances and tactical needs.”