12 Jan 2026 19:49:20
I've no clue what's best for the future of the club. I think the manager deserves some respect, and some leeway, for what he accomplished last year. But I also agree that performances and results have been well below standard this season. Tough choices ahead.
Regardless, I think it's worth remembering that this is a World Cup year and this summer's tournament will run longer than ever. This will make it even more difficult to execute wholesale changes across the team.
The WC comes to a close on July 19 and the league season kicks off again on August 22. And those players who go deep in the tournament (Wirtz with Germany, Ekitike with France, MacAllister with Argentina, the entire Dutch contingent, etc) will need a well earned holiday before returning to training.
I'm not suggesting that the club altogether avoid making necessary modifications and improvements. But I fear that those who are recommending wholesale changes over the summer are underestimating how difficult that may be to implement.
Look at how much we changed this summer and how turbulent the transition has been.
We cannot be chopping and changing every season. The best groups are the ones that are given the chance to grow and develop together. Continuity has value. Unity is strength.
Just my two cents. Cheers and a happy new year to all!
12 Jan 2026 20:44:58
Good post Ritchie, I agree with your sentiments. My view point is if Alonso was our original target and there is an option to get him know, then you have to grab the opportunity. As you say thank you Slot PL number 2 in 35 years, he will leave with pride and respect, but sometimes in life you need to grab the opportunity.
12 Jan 2026 23:03:41
Maybe we should give the job to someone who is actually going to do the job. Properly.
This guy is getting paid a fortune to do half a week's work. Sorry but it's taking the mickey.
13 Jan 2026 02:12:01
What work does he do in the 'half a wee' and what work doesn't he actually do @StE? Genuine question as your opinion just sounds like an unsubstantiated pot shot.
13 Jan 2026 11:21:22
WDW if you read the posts about him regularly flying home between games, he cannot be doing the job full time can he?
Unless he is able to be in two places at once. I should have said part-time instead of half a week. The level of pedantry on here is a rounding sometimes. Didn't realise it was a grammatical master class as well as a football forum.