Obviously all the chatter around Enzo Maresca lately has us all thinking. Who would we even bring in if Maresca did go? Who is even available?
I’m not going to talk about names in this one, but maybe you guys could throw out some names in the comments who might fit this. But for me, when I am building the perfect Chelsea manager, this below is what I’d look for.
Too much to ask? Does such a person even exist? And does it matter anyway because the club will only go for another yes man who is unlikely to question them much?
Mentality
THE most important thing for me. They need to get the club. They need to be a leader on the side lines and in the dressing room. They need to be the type of person who is respected by the players and can be part of the team, but at the same time set boundaries and expectations. He needs to have some empathy but not to the point where he just wants to hug all the players all the time. Tough love is a good thing. Don’t necessarily throw players under the bus but do offer constructive criticism – fans like to hear it how it is and the players have to deal with that too. Also, take responsibility when the buck falls at your own door. Although he needs to create relations with all the players, he needs to take no nonsense and keep any egos out. Show passion on the side lines, show you care, and speak with heart in pressers.
Style of play
Flexibility and adaptability for me is key here. I like a team to play quick football moving up through the gears. I like a manager who will encourage freedom from his best and most creative players. I like a manager to have a good balance between attack and defence and use a strong spine. I like a pragmatic setup personally. I like attacking football in general but when we need to sit in, defend, I’d like to see us setup in a counter attacking way with the amount of pace we have in the squad. Use players in their best positions and play them on merit. Setup depending on the opponents we are facing and the team we have available.
Relations with owners
Respect them but have a say. Use your voice. Don’t upset the apple cart but make sure you voice your opinions do not be a yes man. And this bit is more on the board than the manager because they need to learn to accept this. Some of the best managers need and want more of a say. If we want the best, you’ve got to respect that.
Fan interactions
The second most important thing. From day one, you need fans on your side. If you lose them early, it’s very hard to get them back. Yes, it’s results-based but also, if some fans don’t like you or the way you play, then they will be gone and that’s that. You need fan support in the stadium and even out of it. It’s so important. So treat fans with respect, do not start snapping back at them if they are offering critique; accept that’s all just part of it. Understand them, speak to them on their level and make sure you know the history of the club and the expectations it carries. Talk realistic but at the same time, make sure you’re telling them that you’re here to win, here to get Chelsea back where they belong.
So, does this manager exist or is there someone slightly close? Answers on a postcard (in the comments) please?