This is bad news, very bad news. Apparently a disagreement with Rafa ahs sent Pako on his way. This is potentially a huge blow as Pako did so much in terms of fitness and tactics. Here and here. Rumors that both United and Chelsea were interested, but I don't believe that's the reason, reading between the lines. It appears a fight with the boss was......
Wow, this is surprising. They've worked together for years, for several teams. Strange that it would happen now, right at the beginning of a new campaign. If he wanted to leave, why didn't he during the summer break?
There's something bizzare about this whole episode; they've been together forthe best part of 10 years and then an apparent ego trip embellishes their relationship? Somebody is going to back down, I hope.
This afternoons training session was cancelled due to the 2 guys having a heart 2 heart,maybe they will sort it out maybe they won't but we've allready have a ready made replacement in Angel Vales who is arguably more qualified that Pako in Training Fitness terms.
Maybe that's the thing. Rafa has always been the number 1 and Pako has always been the number 2. Even though they are friends that has to get to you sometime, and maybe Pako was tired of Rafa changing plans in training and doing things his way just because it's Rafas team. Maybe Pako felt that there wasn't enough respect between the two and felt it was time to move on. Again all speculation, but put yourself in Pako's shoes and you can see what I mean.
I get the picture. I've been a number 2 on countless occasions. And, although, I think I'm fairly decent at keeping my place things can eat at you over a period of time. Sooner or later, you just have to do your own thing.
Sorry to get OT here. I'm not sure, perhaps I'm being forgetful, but did Rafa ever appoint someone as acadamy director? I remember reading something about him wanting to get more involved in it after Heighway left. Anybody know?
Here you go... http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/archivedirs/news/2007/jun/27/N156231070627-1029.htm http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/archivedirs/news/2007/jun/28/N156235070628-1101.htm
Wasn't Ayesteran considered a really good conditioning coach? And what was his input tactically? From what I've heard he's pretty good at both. I doubt it will have any effect on this season, but I could see it being a long term worry if Rafa doesn't find someone that is equal.
Rafa doesn't plan on replacing Pako. I am not sure about how good Pako was tactically but he was one of the better conditioning coaches.
The picture posted by YNWAYNWA, shows Pako at last night's reserve match with one of our fitness coaches! Liverpool had allowed him to join Bilbao which he has since left ... And he reportedly claimed Benitez was still a very good friend of his. Hmm ...