It's just fascinating to see how quickly it seemed to go to hell. Often when a new manager comes in there are a few games of good play, then a return to form, maybe some improvement, but not a night and day improvement. If a team is teetering on the precipice of relegation, it can be the difference that keeps them up and that's victory, really (I'm reminded of Spurs some years back). With Ole, the team responded and then kept responding. It seemed genuinely like a night and day switch, as if playing under the Special One had so soured the team that all they needed was a basically solid manager who instilled optimism and positive play was all they needed. It lasted much longer than the usual 'new manager bounce'. So, to me it seemed a very reasonable thing to make him permanent... and almost immediately after making the move permanent, the wheels came off the cart. Wow.
basically, the players had downed tools under Mourinho, and after a spell of hard work, they've now gone off the boil for Ole, as well. the problem isn't the manager. if the club will back him, Solskjaer will clear out the rot. but that's easier said than done, as the biggest offenders are on, what? a zillion pounds a week? it's gonna cost so much that they'll have to be wondering, "do we invest that kind of money on the needs of an unproven manager?" it's by no means OGS's fault. but will he get the backing he'll need?
I am just taking a moment to marvel at the good will going towards Man U (in any form, in any amount).
So, a recap of the past week. Spurs lose on Wednesday, advance in the CL Spurs lose on Saturday, and by Monday, maintain 3rd in the PL. The closest mental hospital to WHL must be filled to capacity.
I think Jose Mourinho has given Man U the Portuguese version of the Evil Eye. Funny how after 6 losses in 8 games, OGS can do no wrong, but when Jose had similar runs, the media knives were quick to come out.
I think that's a fair point in terms of objective managerial and tactical analysis. but the difference between how one treats what seems like a decent bloke and one who deliberately portrays himself as a total douchebag is hardly mysterious, in the end. there are more than a few question marks swirling around Solskjaer's permanent appointment right now. had he accepted the position by labeling himself a 'special one' or had blamed every subsequent setback on anyone and everyone but himself, I'd guess those questions would have more barbs attached.
Good points, Jose didn't help himself with his histrionics, but it is interesting how when Jose was winning things with Chelsea, the same kind of antics were considered charming and impish among those in the media who were eating out of his hands.
absolutely true. and i'm sure if he had Man U ticking over and towering above the competition, he'd be getting the same today - he's always been good ink. and, of course, selling ink is hardly down to objective analysis - or at least not entirely. so twisting the knife into Jose in ways you wouldn't with Ole just comes down to what resonates. and that difference resonates with almost everyone, I'd guess.
Arsenal down 3-0 against Wolves. Was always going to be a tough game, but 3-0 at the half is a surprising.
and now city with their second to go 2-0 up v United. Arsenal have pulled one back at Wolves, but they're still down two in the 84th. so it looks like both United and Arsenal will drop all three points today, which could not be better news for us. look for a weakened side against West Ham Saturday, but with Sonny, as he's not eligible for Ajax in the first leg, anyway.
Six points is enough a top four finish. Six points and any dropped points by Chelsea will guarantee third. Maximum points are Code: CHE - 76 (21GD) ARS - 75 (23GD) MAN - 73 (13GD)
I thought Man Utd had 1 world class player. I was wrong, it's 0 - even de Gea is shit now. Twice beaten at the near post, including booting the 2nd in his own net.
Man Utd beat Chelsea at the weekend, Arsenal draw or lose, we beat West Ham - confirmed 3rd barring a big GD swing.
I think Arse at least use mkhitaryan, don't they? sanchez got 10 minutes and one touch on the ball today, rofl