Opinion: Gerrard wasn’t ready

Steven Gerrard was appointed in the middle of last season in November 2021. He was supposed to bring a refreshing view and perspective. As a man of the future after winning the Scottish League with Glasgow Rangers the season before. However, yesterday was his final day as the Aston Villa Manager.

Gerrard have certainly a legacy on the pitch for Liverpool. Nevertheless, he hasn’t been long or seasoned as a manager yet. He went quickly and fast into the role as manager in Aston Villa. Maybe he wasn’t prepared for the challenge.

Some might say he never had the time or ability to implement his sort of squad or tactics for the matter. Aston Villa was supposed to be a top 10 or trying to reach the top 6 in a short space or time. However, Gerrard wasn’t the character for this club.

Aston Villa was supposed to reach new heights and build the club even further. It made it further seems like Gerrard was using the club as a stepping stone. This was just a place for him and a building his CV. Instead of delivering or trying to excel here.

Gerrard was a supposed legend and he should later become the successor of Klopp in Liverpool. That must have been an Achilles heel for him. Since, how could he build or be a future man for Villa when he was just in the waiting to return to Liverpool.

Here is a big name that failed in his role. It is likely that he wasn’t the fit in the first place or his name was to big for the role his occupying. Gerrard should have considered this and tried to connect himself more to the club. He needs to build trust and confidence. Especially, after the board got rid of respected and a man that had delivered for Villa in the past. This being the newly sacked manager Dean Smith.

When Gerrard came from Rangers he had just achieved a title and gotten the club back to the European Competition. Nevertheless, he didn’t have back-to-back titles in the Scottish League. He was able to return Rangers to prominence, but that was expected. It isn’t like Rangers is a small or insignificant club. It wasn’t like Airdrieonians Football Club or Airdrie from a small-timer to a big shot over years. No, he restructured Rangers and got them back.

Gerrard should have footed himself differently. Stevie G shouldn’t have experimented as much as he did. He was also unfortunate to loose Grealish. He got the players which was bought in his stead. Some of them wasn’t able to push or get into the Premier League that fast. This has hit him hard and his own signings hasn’t hit the ground running either.

Gerrard maybe went to high and to fast. Stevie G needs to prove himself and be more consistent. He needs to prove that his able to re-ignite and deliver astonishing results. Gerrard cannot just think his name can carry it all. It is proven now that it’s not enough. Then he will do like Wayne Rooney and end up in the MLS. Instead of where he wants to be at.

Gerrard needs to re-think his ways and how he operates to able to succeed as manager. Gerrard could easily end up like Solskjær and be “untouchable” after the final stint in Manchester United. Even if he did deliver a second place during his tenure. Because, you need results and prove that your progress. There is a need to show character and will to thrive. In this here game, there is nothing given to you. The manager always has to prove and evolve. Never be stagnate and be gullible.

It seemed like for the last two months that Gerrard was a “dead man walking” and a “sacked in the morning” type of guy. The latest was the crushing defeat against Fulham after dozens of bad results. He didn’t deliver and the club don’t have the time to wait on promise. They need returns and they need it quickly. Gerrard didn’t deliver stability or progress. He only made it seem worse and now was in the midst of a downturn. Not the sort of outlook he came in with.

Gerrard needs to take a challenge and needs more experience. He needs to touch lower levels League’s and managerial experiences there. He needs to show that he can carry the weight and succeed. Because, if he does and returns to another club with that baggage. Gerrard might have a chance of redemption.

Since right now… it’s grim and looking bad for him. He looks like a sorry man who was to early out and wasn’t ready. He needs to get prepared and have the tactical skills to outsmart his competition. That wasn’t it in Aston Villa and that’s why his gone. Peace.

Opinion: Lampard needs the great escape [or an act of mercy from the ones fighting with him in the relegation zone]

The bet on the novice or less qualified manager Frank Lampard has certainly not paid off. In 12 Premier League matches since taking over. Lampards team has won 3 matches, 1 draw and 8 lost. That is a terrible stat, as the Goodison Park and Evertonians are working to survive the league this year.

What is striking as the management goes along is that Lampard haven’t been anywhere near the pressure or test as manager before. His assistant Paul Clement might be more experienced and even been in hot-water in the past. Still, that doesn’t save him this time around. After today’s loss against arch-rival and losing the Merseyside Derby on Anfield.

Lampard is for the first time in the direct relegation zone. He was only appointed or hired on the 31^st January 2022. So, everyone can say he has little to no time to make a difference. Nevertheless, when you are trailing and falling like Everton. There is a need for restructuring the squad and figure out a way to grind out results.

However, we can see that Everton and Lampard haven’t done that. As the rest of the season is a real test for him too. What is striking is that lowest points to ever save a club in the Premier League have been with West Bromwich Albion (WBA) who was able to avoid relegation with 34 points. By now that will depend on the current form of Burnley and Leeds, which is just above the line.

Everton has only two “easier” matches left of the season against Watford away on the 11^th May and Brentford at home on the 15^th May. While they are also meeting Chelsea, Leicester, Crystal Palace and Arsenal. Which are matches that could easily become bloody for them and be dreadful in the form their in. There is no consistency so these are easy favourites ahead of these games.

Burnley is meeting Watford in the next match and also meeting Aston Villa twice. While meeting even harder competitors in Newcastle and Tottenham. Though these two team will have nothing to play for and Tottenham could already be out the possibility to get into Champions League next season. Therefore, as Burnley is in better form and actually gets points. Their two points advantage can be very favourable. Especially, if Burnley wins over Watford in the next round and Everton loses against Chelsea.

That’s why the next few matches are crucial, but we shouldn’t consider a sudden change or a new football philosophy. Lampard have no time or ability to get that into play. Heck, he don’t have the squad or the morale to make things change rapidly. While Burnley and the players have fought this battle more recent and know how to play this one out. Even when Burnley is without Sean Dyche and has interim player manager Ben Mee.

Frank Lampard took a chance taking this appointment. This was maybe more promising than Norwich or anywhere else. Everton has been struggling and there is no promise on the horizon now. The last few matches proves that and the stats for Lampard isn’t looking great either.

Lampard will most likely have an Everton relegation on his CV. That is not something you want and certainly not being known for doing so either. His bringing the biggest club to the Championship in living memory. The sort of club that talked of entering European Cups and getting possibly into Champions League within a stretch. Instead it is getting relegated with a mismatch of a squad, fallen wonder-kids and a massive wage-bill. Which will deplete the possibility to get much players to ensure a quick return to the Premier League. As the Championship is a tough and brutal league. Where most of them are fighting and spending over revenue to get ahead, and get promoted as swiftly as possible.

That’s why Lampard isn’t a favourable position now and not surely going to get any better next season either. As the club is fatigued, lack of structure and overspending. In the mix of not having a direct and experienced Sporting Director or having any sort of long-term plan on the scouting or transfers.

There haven’t been a plan and each manager of late has done a lot on their own. That’s why the team is filled with players bought and preferred by the previous managers. While the ones gotten in the last transfer window by Lampard haven’t done much either. Van der Beek and Dele Ali haven’t shown much, if any at this point. They are all part of the problem and the trouble will only get much worse as the season is coming to a close.

Everton is in a relegation battle and has little to no hope. Other clubs has to possible save them. I doubt Lampard or any of this players has the greatest escape in them. Burnley seems more fit and Leeds don’t need much to graze into safety. That’s why Everton has to do it on their own. The matches of Watford and Brentford will be the vital ones, but by then… Burnley might have made it a bridge to far. Which should be the fear of Lampard.

He is now in a grim place and nearly impossible to avoid the relegation. That got to sting. He gambled and so did the Everton Directors Board… the club is losing and doing so quickly. The stats aren’t even on Lampard’s side either. That’s why….

Everton is sinking… while no one is finding the reason or trying to figure out how to save the people on deck. No, they are just hoping an act of mercy or luck will save them. This is not going well and the Merseyside derby will be gone from Premier League next season. Peace.

Opinion: Everton is in a relegation battle with a wildcard manager

The Evertonians should worry about the state of the club. They have been worried for a long time. Times has not become better with Carlo Ancelotti or Rafa Benitez. None of these managers has delivered or made changes which made the club any better. There been years since Everton had the stability of David Moyes or even results worthy of the first season of Roberto Martinez.

Everton is a big club and supposed to be a staple in the Premier League. However, the club is now on shaky grounds. They have appointed Frank Lampard in the end of January 2022 and right before the transfer window was closed. Just in the nick of time, so he could loan Van Der Beek (Manchester United) and get Dele Ali (from Tottenham). Together this trio was supposed to make a huge difference and get results.

Since then Everton has won over Brentford and Leeds at home. However, the rest of the results has been abysmal and not giving much hope. The club is trailing and only one point above the relegation. Newcastle is far off the map now. While Everton should worry about Burnley and Watford. These clubs are used to relegation battle and Everton is not.

While Watford has their own troubles and has hired Roy Hodgson, which in itself isn’t a bargain either. Yes, Hodgson built a stable and hard-working team in Crystal Palace. However, he has only a small window and a less of a stellar chance to save this one. Burnley on the other hand has bought a talented striker and know what they are in for. They have a seasoned coach and manager in Sean Dyche. So, even if they are one point behind Everton. No one should underestimate Burnley and their sudden ability to get points. We have seen that before and no one should be in shock and awe in 2022.

That’s why I have a hard time believing in Everton now. Not because I want Everton anything ill. However, their current form and the mediocre display isn’t sufficient in the times ahead. Neither is the misfits and lack of profiling of players recruited over the last few seasons. As the leftover squad players of other teams in combination with former wonder-boys are not making it a strong outing.

Lampard is a gamble and risk to hire himself. He has not a long stint as a manager anywhere. Neither did he succeed in the second second and Tuchel has galvanized the same squad after his sacking in Chelsea. Therefore, Lampard has to suddenly turn this mediocre squad into winners and he got no time.

He needs to get Calvert-Lewin energized, Rondon to become a steady force on top, Dele Ali inspired and creative again, Andros Townsend active, Fabian Delph into a wall, Seamus Coleman into a running riot and make Jordan Pickford into a superior goalie. This is just something he needs to do. Everton needs their vital players in amazing form and in great spirit.

Alas, in the last 10 matches in the league they have only one victory and one draw. The rest is losses. Also in addition to that, in the league, the club haven’t scored goals since 12^th February. That is close to a month without a goal and only conceding. The next two matches will be very important to grab, as the opponents are Wolverhampton and Newcastle at home. If there is anything to go by, these might be the last straw for the club this season.

Because after this… Everton is meeting West Ham, Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Liverpool, Chelsea, Leicester, Brentford and Arsenal. It is not like the club has an easy ending of the season. It is meeting contenders for the top spots of the league. They are also meeting mid-level teams that can beat anyone at any given time, which is far from walkovers. The only team that is open and a team the club has won over earlier in the season is Brentford. Therefore, the final games are coming up at a rapid speed. There will be nothing easy here and Lampard has to prove his worth.

That Lampard is part of it now. He got to prove that his name is worthy. Frank Lampard has to push and ensure safety. In a battle against relegation. A battle he has never been in as a manager and neither with a squad like this either. This is why his novice ways might be useful or become it’s curse. As he don’t know what buttons or what strategies to tactically get them out of the quagmire. Its not like he knows to build a steady defence or parking the bus. He has to become a great manager and with barely enough experience. It is not his a Allerdyce or Everton’s own Mike Walker.

Everton is maybe in a similar season as 1993/1994 when the club had to fight on the last day of the league to stay up and only survived because Sheffield United lost. The great escape under the reigns of Mike Walker. Now, Frank Lampard maybe have to pull of a similar feat on the final day. If not he has to get the vital points against Brentford. Because, the Premier League is a tight race and in the relegation battle. Every point matters and the matches Everton has isn’t leaving much to chance. If there is any… the points has to be taken in the coming one and with this form. It seems hard to impossible. As the goals are not there and luck isn’t either.

When he took the job in the end of 30^th January 2022, I said Lampard had an unforgiving job. However, it has only gotten worse and lack of results is detrimental now. They are not even close to mid-level or get mid-league into safety. No, they are at the bottom and just lucky they are not into direct relegation zone. Just one point above and 11 matches to go. None of these are certain points or walkovers.

That’s why Lampard to sprinkle some magic dust and be able to inspire his recruits, misfits and outcast into world-class. I hope to see it coming. Everton going down would be a sad day for the Premier League, but that is a result of mismanagement over the years. Wild spending on wild-cards and not proper recruitment of players. Neither steady sports management or having managers who build a squad. Therefore…

Lampard now has to throw the dice and hope to get six eyes. That is his risk and his gamble. Now, we have to see how he carries this in the weeks ahead. Peace.

Opinion: Lampard has an unforgiving job at Everton

That Frank Lampard got this job is all because of his stature and his name. It is not like he has a managerial record or proof of confidence to do this. He was lucky in the role of Chelsea and did above average in Derby County. However, Lampard didn’t prove anything in his second season in Chelsea.

That’s why neither Everton or Lampard is getting a great deal. The people at Goodison Park and Toffee Blue should be worried. As they have had Ancelotti and Benitez… which have both made their purchases of players and tried to forge a way. Nevertheless, the club is getting from bad to worse. That’s why the club is so close to relegation at this point.

Everton has spent a small fortune on players, they have bought and bought players without anything to prove from it. It is a long time Martinez delivered one good season and Moyes stability at the club. These times are long gone… and Everton clearly needs stability and a plan forward.

Since, the half-assing the way forward is only brining things closer to the edge. Lampard has to be given time and at the same time… he has to secure the place and a mid-league position with ease. The expectation is huge and he has deliver.

This club is in shambles, the club is weak and the current form is abysmal. Yes, usually a new manager is able to spark a brief upswing in results. However, that will not last forever. That might save the club, which is just above relegation. Nevertheless, Everton is supposed to be more than that.

Everton last win in the League was in early December and before that the next victory was against Norwich in September. So, it is not like the moral or the players are highly motivated. The team must get inspired and get a vision to move ahead. This is just looking depressing and Lampard has to prove that his more than a legendary player turned manager.

Lampard has to save this club from relegation and do it in style. He cannot walk on water or take it easy. There will be no soft exit and if he doesn’t succeed. The sacking will be painful and the chances of another role will be dimmer.

Frank gets this shot, because other managers has dipped out. They have said “no” and “not interested”. Everton isn’t a secure place and neither is the squad filled with massive stars. The club is filled with players with some potential and with experience in the Premier League. However, these are not playmakers or one-man shows that can carry the club alone. This means, the manager have to make the collective strong and capable to beat anyone.

This means Lampard has to invest time into a system and a theory of which the players believe in and see the results of. Lampard has to sell an idea and a way to play, which shows the club a way forward and secure the present. That’s what he got to do and in no time. Since, there is no trial and shortcuts. The risk of failure and losing out, means they will be relegated and the club cannot afford that. Neither can Lampard who will have lost credibility doing so…

Lampard is taking a risk here and is here because of his name. The name will not carry him now. His not at Stamford Bridge and getting the glory. No, his at Goodison Park and has dwell in mediocrity at the moment. He has to inspire and ensure the drive forward. Which he has to do from day one … and its an unforgiving job, as the expectations are bigger than what the club can produce at this very moment. No matter who is at the helm. Peace.

Opinion: Benitez will walk alone on this one

Rafael Benítez was appointed on the 30^th June 2021 as the Everton manager. He is taking over for Carlo Ancelotti who returned recently to Real Madrid for his second stint as manager there. Benitez isn’t a random bloke or a fella walking into Stanley Park as a manager.

No, his a former legendary manager of Liverpool. The arch-rival at Anfield. The one who had the miracle in Istanbul and secured Liverpool the Champions League. That’s who Benitez is. Yes, he has shown he is capable of making a winning team, but that is long time ago now.

Still, his tenure at Liverpool lingers on. What he said and how he acted. He has long since then worked for Dalian Professionals in China ahead of this appointment. So, it is not like his coming from a winning streak or a place of prestige.

No, Benitez is living of his name. The owners has picked him because of his past glories. Just like they did with Ancelotti. There was a lot of promise, but not the execution for it. Benitez needs to hit the ground running and prove his skills. He cannot live on borrowed time here.

Rafa needs to show results and quickly. That with a mismatch of players, a squad that has been expensively bought over the years, but not with a long term plan. Where several of other managers have picked their choices and possibilities, but not delivered.

There are promise in the team and on a good day. Everton can beat anyone on a good day and when the key players are in form. However, that isn’t everyday and that was visible the last two seasons. Even with Ancelotti spending like a drunk sailor and continuing to haemorrhaging players, which some he didn’t even use like King.

That’s why at this current time. Everton isn’t based to go anywhere. Benitez is questioned just for his past history and words. As he now joins the ranks of a small club and that will linger on until he gets a slice of silver-wear.

Benitez have made this one hard on himself. He knows what he did and that cannot be forgotten. He has now gone from the red to the blue side of the city. From Bill Shankly to Duncan Ferguson. That is just the reality of this.

This will not be an easy walk and here he might have to walk alone actually. It is a unforgiving route his taking. As it is not like it is just water under the bridge. No, this man is walking in the steps of Michael Owen and others who went from one team to a rival. The same he has done now and that will be questioned, as long as his in-charge.

Benitez cannot just fumble the club and play along. He got to deliver and with a mediocre squad and with uncertain transfer kitty. In combination with distrust from the fans and the general supporters of the sport. Since he has gone from one side to the other.

That’s why I don’t want to be in Benitez shoes right now. The walk alone and without the people behind you. That got to be tough. Even for a seasoned and well travelled man like Rafa. He got to feel it too.

The only thing that will redeem him here is actual results and progress. He needs to do like Martinez did in his first season to have hope to keep this going. That’s what he needs and that’s the only way out.

If not there will be quickly singing in the stands: “Rafa sacked in the morning” Peace.

Opinion: The Super League undressed one vital ingredient hidden in plain sight

The Dirty Dozen or the 12 clubs who was breaking away from the Football governing bodies and creating their own league on Sunday the 18^th April 2021. Have shown the world their true character and reason for ownership in the sport in the first place. The clubs have been taken over by sports owners, businesses and financial backers who is in for a quick buck. This isn’t owners who cares about football, its traditions or the legacy of these clubs. No, they are a MEAN to an END.

The clubs in question are useful tools for a cash-grab and a huge profit margin in sports where there isn’t to much investments for supporters and consumers world-wide to buy the product. If that is TV-Licensing deals, sponsorships or merchandise sale. It is all ways to sell the products and get the money flowing. Get the business from going from red to black in a heartbeat.

The 12 clubs and additions would have a financial wet-dream and be in a beneficial agreement. Where they would earn big money before even playing and just participating in the Super League. These teams would earn fortunes and they would just change the rules of the game. The pyramid of national leagues or even UEFA club coefficient wouldn’t matter. These twelve teams would get an advantage and be partners in their own system.

They wouldn’t have to care about the rules of FIFA, neither the tournaments of UEFA or the national association. The teams would be separate from the national leagues and cups. The 12 in question would live on their own island and on their own terms. Not playing in solidarity with others than themselves and gaining the perks of that.

That is why the Super League was so baffling. Yes, the UEFA and FIFA isn’t perfect. They are corrupt and have well known cronyism. The UEFA governing body is a greedy machine and the same is FIFA. So, the 12 clubs are just a mirror of their efforts, but in their own way. The 12 teams have been living in this greed and been building its prestige within these systems. That’s why breaking away would be a betrayal of the system they have grown big in.

Neither of the parties I have mentioned has clean hands. In the end its the supporters and fans who pays the price. The clubs are only being wealthy and rich, because of fans and supporters are willing to spend their dimes on them. They are buying tickets, subscription to Pay-Per-View and other things in connection with them. Not like the clubs can live or work without fans. They are the one reason for their existence in the first place.

The Super League was built on a shaky ground and would be a damned from the start. There would be so many left behind and leagues shattered because of the betrayal of these 12 teams. The owners of the teams might seek to find a way out. As their wet-dreams went south. The fans and the football bodies didn’t accept this. However, the teams still needs a reminder and they we’re close to making it happen. They had finalized the deal and went out with sort of collective statements. They we’re proud founding clubs of the Super League. These teams needs to be reminded and get a punishment. The Football Associations and others needs to react swiftly. It cannot just be water under the Stamford Bridge. It got to be something, drop of points and transfer embargoes. They need to feel.

The 12 teams are maybe not able to configure the league. As teams are ditching out the deals tonight. Sports directors and CEOs are resigning. We are seeing rumours of trading teams or trying to sell. All of that because they couldn’t bath in glory and swim in coins like Scrooge McDuck. However, the clubs was willing and was close to ditch everyone else. That got to have consequences. This cannot just conspire to happen over night, release it out of the bag and scare whole of Football Europe without any sanctions or punitive actions. The clubs who was willing to betray their national leagues and associations needs to be addressed. These has to be answered and they have to wonder why they wanted to leave the fold for their own game.

The owners underestimated the values, the reach and the general support for Football in Europe. These owners aren’t close in the alleys and streets around the stadiums on the day-to-day basis. They are only looking over the stock portfolio and the bottom-line on their investment. If it is yielding good money and great returns. Now, they are seeing the heart of the matter and possible the outreach of clubs. They didn’t just buy a Football Club, but also a local stakeholder and a part of a community. That cannot just be traded or sold as a loaf of bread. No, it got to be respected and honour the commitment of the fans it has.

The Dirty Dozens owners forgot this part. They forgot why they exist. Now, these clubs better face consequences and answer for the Super League. The resignations and possible sales of clubs isn’t saving it. That is just damage control after a failed enterprise. They we’re supposed to get a quick fix of money and run their own game. Now, they have lost without even playing a game. The PR is ghastly and the reputations is in tatters. The trust in the owners and the boards is at a all time low. These folks are willing to trade it all for a JP Morgan security of steady cash-flow.

The Super League shows how the Americans lives in their own world of Money-Ball. Where clubs are vehicle for printing money and securing favourable deals in Entertainment/Sports. That is all it is to them. They don’t value traditions, competitions or the rules of the game. No, it is money and that is what it all boils down too. They don’t care about Bushby, Shankly or Shearer. No, they only care about Pound Fucking Sterling and Euros. Peace.

Opinion: Supporters have to learn from AFC Wimbledon [Super League, don’t join’em, but beat’em]

I always remember back to Wimbledon and their rough playing style (the Crazy Gang). Wimbledon as a team was filled with sometimes misfits and out of character players. However, they did entertain and showed courage on the pitch. That is why the Wimbledon team was respected and deserved credit for what it did.

However, at some point the team fell apart. It also got relegated and got new owners. That really relocated the team and its facilities. This cause furore and fury among the loyal supporters. Wimbledon deserved much better. The owners went ahead and relocated it. Nevertheless, the supporters started from scratch and built up a new team.

MK Dons – The Owners Club:

“MK Dons, formed in 2004 from the ashes of Wimbledon FC, began playing their football at the National Hockey Stadium under the guidance of Stuart Murdoch, but poor results would lead to his dismissal in November of the same year and the appointment of Danny Wilson in his place. The experienced Wilson was in charge during the Dons’ most turbulent spell as a Club, escaping relegation from League One on the final day of the season thanks to Gareth Edds’ 84th minute winner against Tranmere Rovers.” (MK Dons – History).

AFC Wimbledon – The Supporter Club:

“It was preserving that glorious past that drove followers of the club to start again in the summer of 2002 after a specially appointed three-man FA commission shocked football fans everywhere by allowing the old Wimbledon FC to relocate to a Buckinghamshire new town. Determined not to let a proud 104-year history die, Dons supporters organised themselves and within just six weeks AFC Wimbledon – a club the commission had declared would be “not in the wider interests of football” – was born” (AFC Wimbledon – About Us).

This here is a cautionary tale, as well as one that has to inspire, as AFC Wimbledon is the game ahead and what the supporters needs to do. Yes, the owners can have the stadiums, the licenced names and jerseys. They can have the logos and even the grounds where the proud history of the clubs was made. However, the owners doesn’t own the supporters or the fans. They are the reason why the clubs are profitable and big business. These are the ones spending and making football viable as an investment.

Therefore, now that the Super League becomes a thing. The fans of the Big Six in the United Kingdom better learn from AFC Wimbledon. If they want to take care of the rich history and what matters. They better start their own clubs and forget the old ones. They are like the MK Dons. The clubs of the owners like Glazers, Levy and Henry. These people are in it for business and profits. Those fellows isn’t in it for the love of the game, but to earn quick bucks. That is why they are invested and interested in a Super League where they control and secure the bag.

That is why the supporters, fans and everyone who loves the sport. Have to start a fresh. They got to do like the Wimbledon fans had too. They had to stand strong and united, be courageous and not take the bollocks from the owners. They have to start new clubs in their stead. The supporter unions and organizations have to organize together in a manner where the they all can participate and create new clubs. Clubs which will represent the supporters and be “theirs”. Not be money-making machines for rich investors or hedge-funds.

Supporters have to stay grounded and think for the long run. Because this Super League is only envisioned as a cash-grab for a selected group of owners who has no care in the world in the spirit or the ideals of the competitions. They want a huge profit quickly and earn fortunes on the hard work and dedications of supporters for decades before they arrived to the clubs. These individuals want to take the heritage and the history of these clubs to get a few more shillings. That is what they do and leave behind a lot of national leagues, cups and European competitions without their presence. All been done for a creation of a money-ball situation. That’s it. The rich historic clubs traded on the alter of crony capitalism. That is tragic and therefore, the supporters have to challenge this. Just like the great supporters of Wimbledon who lost their home, their club, but they started their own with AFC Wimbledon, because the owners traded it away with the MK Dons.

Now, the big clubs are trading away their histories and their collective place for a shot at this Super League. In their stead the supporters have to create new teams in Milan, London, Manchester and elsewhere. To show the owners that they got nothing without the supporters and in the end… the souring profits will stop when they don’t have the ratings, the licences, the merchandise and gift selling. They only have empty stadiums and TV-deals, which the supports might boycott. That will be the tragic end. That is if the supporters are willing to risk their clubs, which have already been traded and taken for granted by a few greedy owners. Peace.

Opinion: The “Owners” League

The establishment of the European Super League (ESL) is practically the “Owners” League. This is made by and made for the owners of these clubs. The owners of these Football Clubs see the profit and possible incentives to control the licensing and merchandise directly. Not being part of the European Football bodies or governing associations. This is taking direct control of their investments and finding ways of getting a possible cash-cow.

The Super League is the European answer to the American Money-Ball. Where they have “World Series”, NBA and all the other leagues where Franchises and Owners of Teams are automatically part of the leagues. These are not made by national associations and by league structures that makes it possible for the underdog to get to the top. Because, the leagues are pre-fixed and has the Major League Teams already secured play.

The same will be with the Super League. Where the Founding Teams and such will have a favourable spot. These clubs will be there and never get relegated. These clubs with their massive wealth will sign of their own rules and together not care about for instance the “Financial Fair Play” or other measures to make the game more interesting.

With this sort of game-play and league. There will not be possible to see Burnley or Sheffield United beat Manchester United or Tottenham. No, they will not be able to participate or even try to play other second tier teams in the other leagues. They are practically shut out of the competition and the league is a narrow joint venture between the capital strong clubs of Europe.

The ESL is just made for the owners and not for the supporters. This is not intended on making it better for fans or making the sport more competitive. There is already Champions League and Euro League under the UEFA umbrella. Where the European Club Association has a say and is a vital member of. Therefore, ESL is playing around this and trying to be challenger to this.

What the ESL is losing out of is the direct competitions and the growth of the national leagues itself. If La Liga, Premier League or Serie A wasn’t competitive and interesting the supporters would ditch that too. However, the race for the titles and the race for the European titles as well have fuelled the interests for years. The ESL wants to cash out of that without putting the work down.

These clubs wouldn’t be interesting or as big as they are, if they didn’t participate or being part of the bigger picture. So, if they go along with this one and plays this one out. They are outplaying themselves too. You cannot grow naturally on your own. The competition will be pointless and mediocre with time. Especially, if the fans ditches things or boycotts it. As they feel betrayed by the owners and the financial backers of this. The owners wants quick money and control. They don’t want to be playing to rules of the game or the governing bodies of it. No, they want to the dough and wants to eat quickly.

That is what happens when you mix a lot of rich billionaires, oligarchs and hedge-fund investors taking control of Football Clubs. These are only calculating profits and possible returns. They are all in for their ends and doesn’t care about the love of the sport. These has invested to get money and earn money on buying the clubs. That is why they are doubling down on it and preparing for the ESL.

The ESL is the “Owners” League. It isn’t made for the supporters, but as a incentive to make it more profitable and cash-in money quickly. However, that can also only happen if the supporters actually follows and does participate in this. Nevertheless, supporters and fans are already outraged.

We know that will matter, but they are not taking that in. As the money is to big to care about few screaming out and being mad. They need to see the bottom-line and if the money goes from red to black. When they do that… then they are earning money and they don’t care what the older fans cared about. Peace.

Opinion: The European Super League [it’s all about the money(!)] and forgetting the fans

It is now officially that there been made a deal or an agreement to form an European Super League. This has been made with the American Bank JP Morgan and other owners of European Clubs. This being the owners of the 15 big Football Clubs.

The clubs who is involved is Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Athletico Madrid, Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus. These together will form the core of the league. That is 12 clubs with additional 6 teams to become 18 teams league.

This is a formation made with the financial backers and owners of the clubs. These are oligarchs and wealthy hedge-fund owners who is trying to make their own cash cow, which they control and not involving either UEFA or FIFA. These clubs will run the tournament and be the chiefs in their own house. These is all founded by the financial backers and the ones owning the clubs. It is their own drive to make a more profitable enterprise.

The Super League at this point is slated to start in the 2023-24 season. This means the club will be preparing for the shift and the machinery behind the launch of the League until then. The managers and the clubs will be making preparations for it. While they might focus less on the National Leagues or the European Cups (Euro League and Champions League). They maybe not even care about the FIFA Club World Cup. Therefore, this is creating their whole own additional thing without considering the implications of the current tournaments the clubs already participate and is members off.

The modern day football have been driven by money. The salaries and the revenue have reached epic sums. The clubs, the merchandise and licensing is profitable enterprise for the European elites. The clubs has fans worldwide and the stars has posters everywhere. That is why these clubs who signs up to this Super League could profit and make vast fortunes to cover the eventual debt or prices of operation. However, they are also not respecting the football’s governing bodies or the traditional tournaments, which have made the sport and the clubs big in the first place.

This clubs didn’t grow on a island. They grew as a part of a football body and part of the evolution of football. These clubs have been part of the changes with UEFA and their National Leagues. If they feel to big for these bodies now. Then they are disrespecting the national associations and their roles in supporting their growth. The clubs are grand and great, because the Football Associations and supporters made them huge.

If they would pick the Super League and do this deal. Take the bait and the funds. They would have fight for relevancy and be a secondary league or tournament to the ones already existing. These are sort of making their “upper echelon” Champions League and formalizing it. The elite making their own league and ignoring the other champions of Europe. They are not caring for the second tier from the other states who also can get their cut and sometime meet the giants at their field. That is the beauty of this game.

Now this will block the greatness of the possibility of seeing the Messi’s and Ronaldo’s against the national heroes of Eastern Europe or Central Europe who could only dream about challenging such big stars on the pitch. They are now relegated by default and by the cynic approach of outside owners who see the money, but not the heart of the game.

If I we’re a Liverpool support. I would turn to Everton. Similar with the other clubs. If they decide to do this. Yes, UEFA and the National Association have to take their turns. They got to show force and enforce strict rules. So, that the ones that betrays the leagues get punished. However, this only proves what the American Money-Ball people thinks. They can juice up the clubs and make them invisible to the rest. Instead of investing and securing a better football product for all supporters.

This is corporate greed, which has grown strong into the Football Community. This is the market driven and profit thinking. Instead of loving the game. This is the owners taking it all in their hands, using their leverage and trying to forge their own rules. Instead of using all governing bodies of Football. Yes, FIFA and UNICEF have become cash-cows and big business too. Still, they are capable of exporting and making the sport more interesting for the supporter. Yes, they have made greedy agreements and shady transactions, which the manner they have traded the World Cup on the International Stage.

However, the National Leagues and European Cups have been successful and grown massive interests. That’s because of the competitive nature and international interests on these competitions. This is why the world is following Champions League, Euro League and the other National Leagues like Premier League, Serie A, La Liga and others. Which has all created interests and fans all across the globe.

If the big-teams ditches this and creates their own by corporate interests, instead of their fans. They are losing their key ingredient to why they became big-clubs in the first place. If the fans and supporters ditches the Super League and forget these clubs. Then they are losers and have huge bills to pay for empty stadiums. It maybe not happening at first. However, when they are not participating in ordinary leagues or competitions. What will drive them to make them better or challenge for titles? When they are in their secluded little league… of giants… who just plays along themselves.

That will end hurt themselves. It might work for a few seasons if the backers are lucky, but the prospects and the greatness will fade. As these will not have growth potential or glory in their respective fields anymore. They will be lonely in their own tournament and maybe not allowed to return to respective leagues and such.

In previous times, when clubs have demoted or breached rules. They have lost points, been relegated and even pre-fixed to struggle in the up-coming season. If these clubs abandon their respective leagues and wants to return “home”. Then the associations should use measures to stifle and make them pay for their disloyalty. Also, in a way where the club pay a hefty price and also on the pitch. Since the owners didn’t value the additional support or the traditional leagues.

The Super League is the Money-Ball experiment in Europe. American investors and corporations thinking they can juice up a cash-cow and call it a day. Where they can use strong brands and huge platforms to make a “World Series” and hope for a “Super Bowl”. While forgetting about the UEFA cups and the importance of national leagues. This is why this is a destructive move and as a supporter of football. A tragic move. A move made only for the pockets and not for the heart of the game. Peace.

My Congratulation Message to Leicester City Football Club after the club became the marvellous Premier League champions of the 2015/2016 today!

This will be written with emotions and not be accurate as the historic victory of Leicester City Football Club and their title of the Premier League for the season of 2015/2016. Today is two rounds before the end of season and with Chelsea – Tottenham 2-2 on Stamford Bridge. That gave Leicester City a 7 Point over Tottenham Hotspur on the Second Place in the Premier League.

This has been a season of amazement and wonder. Chelsea breaking down in the start of the season, Aston Villa going into shambles and Sunderland and Newcastle continue to fight yet another season to avoid relegation. So the season have had wonders and been different. With West Ham winning on away at bigger clubs. Liverpool have been either great or terrible; Southampton been under the radar, Everton not there yet again. Bournemouth and Watford securing the place in the league early after promotion last season!

But there been one crazy ride in Leicester City and their ways of winning the title. They started with a weird season where they we’re down in the dumps and had a great escape from relegation. They had a fantastic last part where they won and won. It set the stage for this season even with the sacking of Nigel Pearson. Nobody expected much of Claudio Ranieri as he had just been sacked himself from being the Greece National Head Coach after humiliation of losing 1-0 to Faroe Islands in Europe Championship Qualification match in Athens in 2014. Nobody expected after this that he might resurrect something big in Leicester when he arrived as Manager there.

The goals were set and the standard. He didn’t blink Claudio Ranieri had a plan and it wasn’t to reinvent or buy a new squad. First was set to come as quick as possible to the 40 Points so the level of safety and knowledge of knowing that the Premier League status for another season would be secured. In January he celebrated the 40 Points and the secured place in the league. With that he set a new focus on getting 80 points. Something that was set in the January after a extraordinary first months of the league.

Jamie Vardy scored goals in 11 games in row. That is world-record and a Premier League Record. That was already achieved in November 2015. Many months before the title was in the talking. Riyad Mahrez who came from Le Havre and have been sparkling on the midfield has been voted as the Premier League Player of the Year. Nobody expected this two to sparkle and become vital parts of the Season and change the way we saw the results.

As the last few seasons and after Guardiola won titles and Champions League with Barcelona it’s positive with possession and the direct passing style to keep the ball in the team. Leicester City has been playing a counter-attacking running in the empty space between the midfield and defenders of the opposition. And they have one of that with sometimes as little of 20 % of possession. Where the long-balls and the counter-attacking when the teams have been unstructured because of the team have been in attack and therefore stretched. Not enough players on the right side of the Leicester City high-pulse running midfielders and the strikers like Vardy. The same of with the passes and the technic of Kante and Mahrez, not too talk about the speed of Albrighton.

The same with the soundness of the captain in Wes Morgan in the defense as he set the standard of calm even when they been under and had to turn the result in their favour. With him Huth, Fuchs and Simpson have also showed their strength in defense. As Fuchs, Huth and Morgan have stand strong even when the opposing team have pounded and been around the 16 meter box and knocked the ball away with pace and mastery. As they could have been red-carded and created more penalties with bad tackles or loose the line for offside. The Keeper in Kasper Schmeichel has been good the box and even taken brave steps when the defensive line has cracked.

All of the players together with the leadership of Ranieri have created this; he built on the foundation that Nigel Pearson left behind. Together with the rest of the staff that have recruited and created the group of players that makes the team we knows as Champions today. The staff together with their scout’s looks for players that can actually fits the already established group of players.

So the achievement have been totally mind blowing as the big teams who has spent fortunes on players and salaries are beaten by a club who builds a team and not on already famous players, even outcasts from Manchester United in Drinkwater. Together with Albrighton from Aston Villa, Danny Simpson from Newcastle and the list goes on to their former clubs and their sudden victories approach. Only Huth have won with Chelsea, but not as a fixed part of the 11 players that season, but more as a substitute.

The whole management and the club have achieved something that people like me only achieved on Football Manager or the older versions of Championship Manager. This is like we are managing to come to Champions League with Northampton on the CM 2000/01. It feels like this today. And the Leicester City and all the ones who made it happen can be proud. All the players and the fans can celebrate. I have looked and wondered. It’s been a streak and amazement of the results created by the club. 2015/2016 has made history.

The management, the owners and the players can all be celebrating and congratulation on your first and hopefully not your last Premier League Championship title. Leicester City has waited 132 years, and now has the title and the silverware in their club cabinet. It is well deserved. Also good to know that Jose Mourinho (Chelsea), Louis Van Gaal (Manchester United) or other serial-winners who uses all kind of tactics and ploys to win while being managers of wealthy clubs didn’t hitch the title away from Leicester this year.  

So congrats to all the Foxes, sorry you are Champions and also staying up! We are proud of you and all the football-fans world-wide are happy for you. Even the Tottenham Hotspurs Fans will celebrate with you, but with some shed tears as they we’re so close. Still, the story is all on you and you have made a story that will be remembered. The Team that have been made and kept in the calm hands of Claudio Ranieri proves that the little underdog can overcome the giants who spend £100m pounds in transfers. Something that Leicester City hasn’t done. So again congratulation and you deserve all the praise and glory as the championship is yours; something nobody, none can take away from you.

It took many years to find the remains of King Richard the Third in Leicester City and it have been reburied in a new grave. As much as the finding of the fallen royalty in Leicester was a surprise, the evident victory and winning Premier League! Congratulation and know that you have made the underdogs, the men and woman who enjoy football for its joy and fun. They enjoys victory as it wasn’t he funding and high transfers, but the initial view of building a team is the wonder that you have done. Peace.

PS – Another fun fact – Football related: