Konami announces Pro Evolution Soccer 2011

I know, no one saw this one coming... Konami has announced that the next installment of the popular Pro Evolution Soccer franchise is in development for a Spring 2010 release, with the publisher promising "the most ambitious redesign in the series’ history" for PES 2011.

“We’ve continued to work closely with the fans to pinpoint what it is about football that PES didn’t do. Total freedom was the priority and all-new animation a must. PES 2011 does both – indeed, they are directly linked to each other – and while the new game is recognisably PES at its heart, it is also the most radically improved version ever,” said European PES Team Leader for Konami, Jon Murphy.

Here's a lengthy look at some of the areas of play which Konami will be reworking and revamping for this year's release, according to their press release:

Total Control: PES Productions has enhanced the 360-degree passing ratio, offering unprecedented levels of control over every pass, shot, throw-in, through ball and lofted through balls.
Shot & Stamina Gauge: In addition to the generic power gauge, the Shot & Stamina meter details the player’s exact level of fitness.
New Defender AI: Defenders now hold their positions naturally, no longer chasing any ball that enters their area; preferring to close down the attacker and force them into a mistake.
Speed of Play: The new level of control means that PES 2011 enjoys a more considered pace of play, which varies dependent on situations. The game will burst into life as counter-attacks come into play, but players can dictate the pace via slow build up or exploiting available space to surge forward.
Aesthetics: PES 2010 showcased the best likenesses in a football game, and PES 2011 ups the ante further. Facial animation has been enhanced, but the key advances are over 1000 all-new animations which have been recreated from the ground up using over 100 hours of motion captured footage.
Tactical and Strategy: The PES Productions team has implemented an all new ‘Drag and Drop’ mechanism that can be used in every aspect of team management, not just substitutions or formation changes.
Master League Online: Master League will offer an all-new challenge, as users are invited to try their hand against other managers online, marking the Master League's online debut.

Those are just a few of the planned changes for PES 2011, and as Konami reveals more of the game over the coming months we will keep you updated. The question is, isn't everyone going to be all soccer'ed out by the time spring comes around this year?