Just finished listening to the latest PitchPass interview with Charles Boehm. Roche and Boehm discussed the Philadelphia Union's Academy and development philosophy and, after the break, turned to a comparison of that with DCU's. Two interesting points. They discussed the Durkin fiasco. Noted how his signing at 16 was signaled as a way to develop him through the National Academy, U-20's and first team minutes leading to a major sale, hopefully, in Europe. As Boehm noted, Durkin really is a 6. So, DCU brings in Canouse who is a solid player. So, let's pair Canouse and Durkin and see what happens. Instead, DCU brings in Moreno, so Durkin is #3 and hardly sees the field. They also mention Felipe and Abu who I believe were acquired while Durkin was still on loan and DCU property. In the end, Durkin went for $1M because he never developed here and DCU made roster moves that stifled any development or exposure. Roche says how many 6's does DCU need? The answer, which both sort of ducked is that Olsen's ideal lineup was a GK and 10 DM's gritting out a heroic 0-0 draw or winning 1-0 on one of 2 shots on goal during DCU's 25% possession. The other interesting point was the next DCU coach. They talked about the Curtin's and Pareja's of MLS and before that Tata and Atlanta. Coaches who created a culture and gave the teams real identities. The consensus was that none of the current candidates fit that mold, except maybe Ellis (who I don't believe seriously is interested in the job, even if offered.) In other words, another depressing DCU story in a year of depressing stories.
They may not fit the mold based on what we know but they can sure as heck give it a shot. We aren't getting Tata or Bradley so our best chance of success is a former assistant with a previously strong team that wants to see what they can bring to a blank slate. That's what I expect.
I agree, that's why candidates like Hendrickson, Noonan and Pineda interest me far more than someone like Armas.
At some point, the Curtins and Parejas of the world worked in the area of developing young players. Noonan and Pineda sound attractive to me on paper - sharp guys who have been serving as assistants for successful programs. But Hendrickson, Cherundolo and to some extent Ellis have something of the same kind of experience developing players that Curtin and Pareja have, and I think that's a critical part of growing into that kind of coach. I kinda want someone who's been in the engine room. In terms of them not "fitting that mold," well, I don't think it was a given that Curtin fit that mold when he was hired either. These things are only clear in hindsight. Honestly, Hendrickson might be the best choice of them all. Ellis is pretty far removed, and Cherundolo's lack of familiarity with the league means he'll be something of a project.
I'm thinking EZ or Pineda, but I am leaning toward EZ. I don't know Pineda as well, and there is the fact that EZ played for us, and helped us win the MLS Cup in 2004.
DCU looking hard at Man City assistant Rodolfo Borrel. That is could be great. https://theathletic.com/2225726/202...dc-united-man-city?source=user-shared-article
Yeah some Foreign guy who has no clue about MLS's arcane roster rules to come here and fail, never seen that before.....
Lol I can't wait until the assistant coach of Manchester City and former Barcelona academy director is turned down in favor of Chris Armas or Chad Ashton.
Shawn's legit observation notwithstanding, I'm stunned, stunned I say, that the DCU FO (huh? that bunch of folks? ) had the verve and imagination to even be seriously pursuing the likes of a Rodolfo Borrell. Who are these guys , and what the f*** have they done with our real FO?
I wonder if Borrell might be seen as "affordable" because he will want to - and has the clear experience to - perform the role of TD along with head coach. He's run very successful development programs at Liverpool and Man City. Helping coach up the likes of Messi doesn't hurt his resume, either. I know he'll have problems on the field, especially the first year - probably the first two. As I've said, I'm interested in someone who can develop players, like an NCAA champ, over an established pro coach without those bona fides... IMO, this guy is a freaking bullseye.
This is an intriguing story: Did DK reach out to Borrell to gauge his interest, or was it Borrell contacting us? In either case, one would expect Borrell to appreciate the utility of having an experienced GM like Kasper to explain MLS's arcane rules, until he learns enough to demand Kasper's firing.
A GM takes care of understanding the culture of player acquisition. The coach needs to understand the culture of the players. Granted the US appears to have a unique footballing culture according to a variety of pundits. Every place does, yeah. Can the guy mold a team together, develop an effective style where players understand their role and thrive. One that allows tactical adjustment depending on need. Can he get players to buy in to his vision? Can he win.
Rodolfo Borrell . . . ro-DOL-fo bor-RELL Sounds like he's a Bravosi from Game of Thrones, the First Sword of the Sea Lord of Bravos, or something. And what do we say to the f***ing Red Bulls, eh? "Not today"
Interestingly, a Toronto assistant, Nick Theslof, has a personal tie to Ryan Martin, and a really diverse resume. Well, interestingly to me.
Vanney's gotta be after the LA Galaxy job. I wouldn't get your hopes up on him coming to coach DC United.
Goff's latest on the coaching: Greg Vanney rocks MLS by stepping down as Toronto FC coach - The Washington Post Looks like it's between Armas and EZ. Apparently one "notable" player is pushing for Ashton -- time for drug testing I think.