New Footie season - 2018/2019

[Stratmangler]

it may be 'written in the stars' this year that Liverpool win a historic league and CL double!

If they'd not conceded a 7 point lead since the turn of the year they'd have the EPL title sewn up.
See you out the other side....

[Marco]

Lol - every team goes through a 'wee lull'

Seriously though mate, may the best team win! It's been a cracking season this time in the EPL. Maybe next season City will do something worthwhile in Europe?



Marco.

[Marco]

A bit rude Marco. He is learning like anyone else, and the hard way. But the best way.. He might end up better. Only time will tell

It was a joke, daftee!

In all seriousness though, not many great players (as Gerrard undoubtedly was) go on to make truly great managers. Zidane and Guardiola are two of the few standouts. Who knows, Gerrard may become another!

Marco.

[chris@panteg]

Stunning result, who will they play in the final, can the spuds turn it round? I doubt it but you never know.

[struth]

fantastic heart, not just the play... Playing for the city, the badge and the manager.. top class stuff... take note gers team; THIS IS HOW YOU DO IT!

[Marco]

Absolutely, but the quality of player at Liverpool is currently light years ahead, in every position, of what Rangers (or even Celtic) have. Neither team, right now, is remotely at that level.

Therefore, as well as Rangers 'playing for the jersey' and the manager (as outlined), which is fundamental, they need a significant injection of quality in virtually all areas of the team, if they're going to mount a challenge to Celtic for trophies next season, never mind reach Liverpool's level.

Maybe one day mate, for both our teams, if we ever gain access to the EPL and its HUGE financial rewards!

Right now we're being strangled by being two (very) big fish in a tiny pond....

Marco.

[struth]

goes without saying.. it has to be at their level.

[Marco]

Stunning result, who will they play in the final, can the spuds turn it round? I doubt it but you never know.

Indeed, Chris. For me, the semis and the final of the CL this year are indicative of the quality and influence of the EPL, which is now unquestionably the best and most competitive league in the world, and why EPL teams have featured largely in the final stages . I mean, when was the last time that Spurs had an opportunity, although slight, of reaching the final of Europe's top tournament?

However, the interesting, and also significant thing for me, is the resurgence of Ajax, who like Liverpool, have a great and very proud history in European football, but in comparison with the EPL and La Liga, or even the Bundesliga, play in a 'diddy league'... Plus, whilst by no means paupers, they operate on a virtual 'shoestring', financially, compared with the likes of PSG and Man City, or even Liverpool (interesting link here: https://www.goal.com/en-kw/lists/the...11jwcryxace0ld), yet are on the verge of claiming the biggest prize in club football.

So........ What are they doing right, that the likes of PSG, Man City, Man Utd (although they are a team currently in transition), Real Madrid and Juventus aren't? And does their 'blueprint' for European success, give hope to the likes of Celtic and Rangers? The success of Ajax certainly highlights that you don't need to play in the best league in the world, or be the wealthiest team, to succeed in a competition now that's driven by money.

And what about your team, Arsenal, they could also learn a thing or two from Ajax... Whilst Liverpool's 'fairytale' journey to the CL final this season is remarkable, if Ajax get there too, which seems likely, and win it, that for me, would be even more remarkable!

Marco.

[struth]

Not addressed to me but for me the difference between say Ajax and the Old Firm is their fans and the club hierarchy dont insist on winning every game, or being above their rivals all the time. They nurture their youth, but at same time play them, and support them rather than hound them for missing a few passes etc.

IE, they have patience.

i might add Celtic are better than Rangers at this, although still have a way to go.

[Marco]

Agreed. Rangers will get there I think, as the signs are good with the success that the youngsters have had this season.

The question I posed, however, was addressed to everyone, so I'd appreciate feedback on it from all regular contributors, including you, and especially Chris [Strat], as for me considering that Man City have the second biggest budget to work with, their European success, particularly since they became one of the world's wealthiest clubs, has been little short of abysmal, so in that respect, what are they doing wrong...?

I shall comment more after breakfast!

Marco.

P.S If Ajax win the CL next season, you can add Marc Overmars to the list of great footballers who've become great managers... I'd certainly take him for the Celtic job!