One of the great managers is leaving the world stage.
For a break. A short break, we hope.
I don’t follow Barcelona FC closely but when they are on, I’m usually drawn to watching them. And that usually happens in the big games. Champions League, Copa del Ray, the race to the top of La Liga.
I’ve always thought Guardiola was a lot like Joe Torre. A guy who sat back and managed a world of talent on the field. Seemed the simplest of jobs – just throw some players out and let them do their job.
For long spells Barcelona simply reminded us of their favourite obsession, keeping the ball and exerting a sense of superiority. There are not too many sides in Europe who have the nerve to play with what is essentially a front four and they were quickly in the groove, knocking the ball around, left and right, short and long, waiting for the opening. The philosophy is that giving the ball away is a sin, and yet that is exactly what happened for Drogba’s goal.
(Source: The Irish Times, Drogba gives Chelsea precious lead)
Compare that with this:
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The team showed a lot of character and we dominated the second half. [Luis] Suárez and [Andy] Carroll’s goals were both brilliant, and Wembley will be a lovely place to visit in May.
(Source: The Guardian, Liverpool’s chairman Tom Werner hints at attending FA Cup final)
Sounds like Werner is getting excited about soccer.
Everyone who has come into the club since Damien has been here was of my choice.
- Kenny Dalglish
(Source: The Guardian, Liverpool part company with director of football Damien Comolli)
I think the release of Damien Comolli is being used to soften the blow for Kenny Dalglish. If the above quote is true, then Comolli certainly can not be removed due to the signings over the previous months and years. Dalglish says who he wants and Comolli’s job is to go get them.