What do Arsenal need? by AndersS
As a “Wenger out” supporter for a number of years, I finally start to believ, we are getting close to the day where our recovery can begin. Personally, I think it would be best for all, even for Wenger, if he stopped today, but no matter when it happens it may be time to look into what we need from a new manager. Many names are already being mentioned, and we can all have our favorite(s). But before settling on a name, it might be useful to pinpoint what we actually need.
Here is my “list”:
First of all I think it would be great if we were to get a manager whose job is actually dependent on the football results and not the financial results. This would also mean our next manager is not a “lifetime” manager, but a manager who should be kicked out of the door if our results don’t live up to clear targets. Having said that, I do think he should be met with some patience in the beginning as he is taking over a complete mess, and it can take some time to clean it up.
Secondly, I would like to see a manager who can install some discipline and improved work rate in our players from day one. It seems those 2 basic fundamentals are totally gone after years of “Wenger culture”. Unfortunately, this could be a big shock for many players who have gotten used to the current relaxed strolling around, where they probably are quicker to get to the bank collecting their monthly check than they are chasing an opponent. This shock may even cause discontent and make players wanting to leave. But so be it. We can’t use them in the long run anyway.
Thirdly, I would like to see a manager who can organize the whole team, especially when the opponents have the ball. For me this is the area where we have failed to get in to modern times, and the main reason why we are not competitive. I know some say Arsenal must play offensive football, and I actually agree. But offensive football does not necessarily mean, you shouldn’t organize your whole team to defend. In fact, you can say, that today you aren’t really an offensive football team, if you can’t make your offensive players win back the ball high up on the pitch.
Fourthly, I would like to see a manager who develops our young players with the above in mind. To me it seems we have quite a few talented young players on the verge of the first team, who all look good with the ball, but unfortunately have no or very little discipline, fighting spirit and as good as no ball-winning capability. I really don’t see them becoming stars in the future if this isn’t changed.
It is obvious our players both as individuals and as a team are very low on confidence, and it would be great if a new manager quickly could restore confidence. But it rarely works that way. Confidence comes mostly from knowing you are well prepared, and that will come as a logical step.
Finally, but not a “deal breaker”, I think it would be great if our next manager has charisma and can be the catalyst for smiles, pride and optimism for players, fans and everybody connected to Arsenal FC. How we lack that.
What do you think, are the above what we need? Who can fill the role?
AndersS