Welcome back,
The search for the Holy Grail of club football is nearing its end in the form of the Champions League. Two teams are now left standing as they prepare to do battle on 23 May.
England's Liverpool and Italy's Milan. The vanquished are England's Manchester United - who were taught a footballing lesson by Milan in midweek - and Chelsea, who were pipped by Liverpool in a penalty shootout.
The Champions League boasts a wider spectrum of philosophies and styles across the European continent. Is that more of a test for managers, rather than the somewhat predictable nature of domestic leagues?
This year, Liverpool face Milan again, a repeat of the 2005 final. Rafael Benitez, the Spaniard whom they are now calling the master of tinkering, manages Liverpool.
Arsene Wenger, the shrewd Frenchman, manages Arsenal. For Benitez, that's two Champions League final appearances in three years.
But Chelsea's Jose Mourinho looks down on him for failing to win the EPL in England.
Ferguson is still seen in some quarters as being rather lucky in that 1999 final against Bayern Munich, when they were outshone for most of the match but scored two late goals for a dramatic win.
That's football, most will say.
But the Postman's Question of the Week: Using the Champions League's broader stage as a platform, is Liverpool's Rafael Benitez actually the most tactically nifty, and therefore, the "best" manager among the Big Four (Ferguson, Mourinho and Wenger) in England?
Answer in not more than 200 words, by 3pm on Monday, and the usual spread of letters will be carried on Tuesday, in The New Paper.
Post your views here by clicking on "comments" below my poll here, or e-mail to The New Paper's sports desk under the title "Dear Postman" (by clicking the link on the right).
At your service,
Ernest Luis
The Postman
The New Paper
(PS. E-mailers and bloggers, you all should e-mail us your full name, age, occupation, contact numbers and favourite teams, so you can be selected as prize winners or have your letters published.)
Pablo, I've replied to your last post. See the previous archive.
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47 comments:
Until he wins the Premiership and win 2-3 such titles in a row, the jury will always be out on Rafa if he wants to be acclaimed as the best of the Big 4. Right now, he is only known as The Tinkerman after Claudio Ranieri. Or to be more respectful, a Continental manager for his exploits in the Champions League and his past successes in the La Liga.
To be the best, one has to first conquer one's own domestic league first. It seems farcical that a team can win the Champions League while standing in fifth place or if they win it again this time, in 3rd-4th place. Likewise a team like Milan, whose initial entry into the Champions League was met with frowns and much disdain.
I do not want to sound bitter just cos United was eliminated. I admit Milan does play a more intelligent game and both Ancelotti and Rafa are concentrating more on Europe than their domestic leagues for various reasons respectively. But as it is, even if he wins it again, Rafa will never be the best if his team doesn't start winning the Premiership sooner than later. And you know the likes of Chelsea, United, Arsenal and the rest of the Premiership will not allow that so easily.
Oh and if I can borrow a famous quote by Sir Alex last week, "I wish I can give Tedrid a hug and kiss. Maybe two kisses!!!" :P Thank you again Bolton...
If Rafa wins the Champions League again come May 23rd, he'd have attained more European Cups in 3 seasons with Liverpool than Sir Alex has in 21 years with Man Utd. Rafa’s tactical astuteness in Europe is second to none, as he has masterminded victories over teams like Juventus, Milan, Chelsea and Barca.
His critics will point out that he has made Liverpool into just a Cup team, as the Premiership crown still deludes the 18-time League winners. While the likes of Wenger and Ferguson have attained much domestic success in the past decade, and Mourinho has lifted the Premiership trophy twice in his first two seasons with Chelsea, Liverpool's title challenge in the past 3 seasons under Rafa never once truly materialised.
I have no doubt that Rafa is the tactical master among the 4 managers, but he still has much to learn in order to be considered the best in all aspects. To win the Premiership crown, he needs to have the right mentality, system, signings and perhaps even the mind games. But Liverpool fans are usually a patient lot, so he can rest assured that he has the time he needs for this Rafa Revolution.
Keep waiting LadyLala! *smirk*
Raphael Benitez IS the most tactically nifty among the four. He is very serious in his job but at the same time is nice to his players.
As for my favourite manager Jose Mourinho, he is who he is - a clown. His arrogance and putting down of other people is funny and of high amusement value. He is also tactically nifty but losing to Liverpool says all. Sorry Jose!
I disrespect Sir Alex Ferguson. He's mean and does not care about the welfare of his players. His luck will run out soon.
As for Arsene Wenger, he is on the decline with his tactics and losing his EQ against West Ham is a huge blemish.
when u speak onli about the champions league,
there is no argument that rafa is the best.
as his tinkering often leaves his pponents biting dusts.
but!
when u want to compare the overall contributions,achievements and astute management,
i would say sir alex..
if it was 2 seasons earlier it would b arsene,1 season ago its mourinho,now its alex..
as u see..
2 seasons ago arsenal won the league undefeated,and moving to a new stadium worked within budget..
last season, mourinho managed to retain the premiership crown,
its often said, its easier to win than to retain.. how true.
now,
sir alex has not onli managed to steer united towards consistency in the league,
he also have a team who's aility to score is phenomenal.
leading chelsea y 5 points and in the fa cup final,
he had made united, who in the last three years has no league success into the premiership leaders today shows how astute and great a manager he is.
he did not quit the team,instead he hungered for more.
dats a true legendary great manager for u.
If they are judged solely on Champions League achievements, Benitez’s prowess as the most astute coach amongst the four cannot be denied. 2 Champions League finals in 3 seasons and a winner’s medal with a team without star players, apart from Gerrard, shows a remarkable level of consistency
Rafa has managed to mould Liverpool into a side capable of beating the best in Europe in his short space of time at Anfield. Tactically astute and a meticulous student of the game, Benitez’s brilliance stems from his ability to stay one step ahead of his opponents.
In an era where everything is planned and scrutinized to the minutest details, Rafa has managed to retain that element of surprise and put out sides capable of nullifying the opponents he faces Instead of relying on star players, he uses the right players to suit his tactics; relying on his “star” team to get the job done.
However, Rafa needs to apply the same level of consistency and excellence to the domestic front if he is to achieve greatness. The Anfield faithful demands it and until the Premiership title comes back to Liverpool, Rafa’s legacy remains incomplete. Even for the best in Europe.
If Arsene Wenger is the "Professor", Jose Mourinho the so called "special one" and Alex Ferguson is the "hairdryer", then Rafa Benitez is the "Nerd" and that's where he's suppose to be.
Rafa does his homework before every match. Researching on the strength and the weaknesses of his opposition team and he lives and breathe football. He knows excatly what he is doing and smartly choosing different teams each time to suit certain matches earning him the nickname "The Tinkerman".
After all that has been said. Rafa still is not the best among the four cause he hasn't achieve what Ferguson had achieve for the pass decade. Just give rafa a decade and he'll be the best manager not only among the four but the best in the world. Rafa comes in second after Ferguson, cause wenger (arsenal) can't win ugly and mourinho talks TOO much!
Hi guys,
What a variety of well-thought and argued views, and that goes for you too, q-s...brief and short.
Keep it up, and stay away from the rants and you really might convince the cynical among us.
Now let's see what others have to say on this debate.
Cheers,
The Postman
Benitez-a manager who seems to master the European game much better than his own domestic game.
I would admit that his tactics in Europe seem to work much better than the other bosses. But to acclaim him as the best? Surely at present, that is too farfetched for he has yet to get his hands on the EPL title. I am not being sour grapes but it has been often said that the strength of a true great team is one who wins the league because you have to be consistent for 38 games unlike a cup winning team who only needs to hit the heights for say, 10 games. Luck would play a much more important in a cup run than the league too. One needs to look no further than comparing Porto who won the trophy under Mourinho with a shoestring budget and yet struggle to reach the final with Chelsea with a seemingly unlimited budget.
With his continental approach, Benitez purchases players that strive in Europe but often falter at domestic level.
At presstime, Liverpool is behind Chelsea and Man U in the EPL so to claim his as the best would show a severe disrespect to both Mourinho and Fergie. Injuries have both taken its toll upon Chelsea and Man U. One would wonder whether Benitez would still mastermind a return to the final if almost his entire backline was injured.
On the other hand, credit must definitely be given to Benitez who made it to the final, defeating the likes of Barcelona and Chelsea en route. I sincerely hope he flies the English flag high by claiming yet another Champs League trophy.
However, as for whether he is the best, i am afraid that, till the day he wins the EPL title, he can never be considered better than either Fergie or Mourinho.
Cheers,
kel
To say Rafa Benitez is the best of the Big Four is simply a joke. If he is the best, why did he crashed out of the other cup competitions? Furthermore, he doesn't even has a chance to win the EPL anymore. So what if he wins the Champions League again? Does it make him the best manager in the Big 4 or even the world? For him to be really the best, then win the EPL two seasons in a row like Mourinho, complete a treble like Ferguson and go on a unbeaten run like Wenger did. Only then will he be the best. If he continues with his "rotation policy" next season. I promise he will stand no chance of winning the EPL or any other trophies. Team chemistry is a very important aspect in soccer. Team chemistry results in how well a team can play together. The more he "rotates" his player, the team will be more likely to not play well. If he wants to be the best of the Big 4, it's time he focus more on the EPL than on the european stage.
Let’s compare the 4 managers’ track record in Europe.
Much is expected of the “Professor” but apart from last year’s final appearance, Wenger’s inconsistency in European competitions over the past decade leaves much to be desired.
Jose has failed to replicate his success at Porto with the Blues. Not a single finals appearance in his 3 seasons. With the resources that he has, that is simply not good enough. Thus, to truly be The Special One, Mourinho needs to win again in Europe.
In a career spanning 33 years, Fergie has managed 2 Cup Winner's Cup wins and a European Cup. However, with the United teams that Ferguson had over the past decade, 1 European win represents a poor return. Master of the domestic game he may be but best in Europe? Not even close.
2 Champions League finals, a Champions league winner's medal, 2 Super Cup wins and a UEFA Cup triumph in 5 seasons proves that Rafa is the best in the business in Europe. Without star names and less impressive squads than the rest, Rafa has managed to achieve results by relying solely on his tactical acumen. Thus, Benitez is the best by far in Europe.
*quote* "I disrespect Sir Alex Ferguson. He's mean and does not care about the welfare of his players. His luck will run out soon." *unquote*
Errr pray tell me how mean can he be and does not care about the welfare of his players???
We've seen how the players have described how the man had gone the distance to see through how they are getting on. I quote you a few examples.
Ruud Van Nistelrooy's case was a widely publicised affair. We all know how he got injured before his United move and Fergie showed how serious and patient he was about the proposed move by constantly keeping in touch with him and giving him encouragement.
Diego Forlan had gone to the press to tell them how Fergie and his staff play the waiters' role and servedthe players during the club's Christmas dinner every year.
People like Ryan Giggs had the manager personally coming to his home to sign him on to the club when he was just a raw kid.
I think it's plain simple in any team you play for. You play and work hard for the team, you are loved and treated with respect by the manager but if he sees a change in attitude, it's only right he tells you to buck up your ideas. Unless of course if you are a wuss and can't take being scolded like a man. Or if you never served NS all your life to know what I mean :P
Comparing the 4 Heavenly Kings of football management in England is as though comparing the 4 seasons.Each having their own distinct characters and personalities.Some people hate them while some love them.
Rafa's love for tinkering with tactics and squad rotation is well known.While it has been working magic for him in Europe but the same can't be said for him in EPL.So we have to go back to the question,can his team claim to be the best in Europe but not the best in their domestic league?The Champions' League was meant for the champion in European countries top tier league competition.So strictly speaking,Rafa is not the best yet.
So that leaves us with the other 3 gentlemen who have won the EPL.Wenger whose management style have always been polishing raw diamonds and bringing them to the big stages in football.However he will be the first to get knockout here.Simply because the European Champions League title has eluded him all this while and last year they were so close to winning it but it was not meant to be.
Next out will be Jose.Yes he did won the European Cup but that was with Porto and with Chelsea he should be winning it but that didn't materialise too.With his arrogant attitude and overboard mindgames at times won't win my vote too.
Sir Alex the best?Given his glorious record,its not that hard to say yes.From the brink of retiring to on the verge of reclaiming the EPL title.Surely he has shown his hunger and appetite for success even at his age.
Rafa still has some way to go.Starting by bringing back the EPL title to Anfield first.
Nerd = Brilliant, Hardworking, Ugly, Careful, Serious, Buisness-minded and Weird.
Brilliant, shown by winning a Champions League cup without a star-studded team.
Hardworking, doing his homework before each match.
Ugly, he sure is. Inner beauty perhaps?
Careful, in planning before each match.
Serious, just look at his face during every match and how he shouts commands to the players.
Buisness-minded, has a hundred and twenty five players on his wanted list.
Weird, seen over three thousand soccer clips. That should have been in the Guinness Book of Records.
The 'Nerd' has gotta be Rafael Benitez, and definitely the best among the Big 4 Bosses.
Can Liverpool fans explain to me why Raphael Benitez is only good at Champions League matches and not away matches of the Premiership? Liverpool just lost to Fulham away. What's up with that?
Definitely, Benitez has to be the "best" manager among the big four in the European stage.
As Rafa's record speaks for itself. 2 champions leage finals in 3 years is no easy feat for any manager. But I have to mention that outside the European stage, Rafa's tactical brillance seemed to have dwindled somehow.
One has to put in mind that Rafa had masterminded unseemingly impossible victories like the comeback in Istanbul in 2005. No other managers could have motivate his players like how he did then.
In terms of consistency in the champions leage, he has done it over the last few seasons which Sir Alex Ferguson, Wenger and Mourinho has failed to emulate at their clubs.
Though, he has more to learn from his counterparts in the Big Four if Rafa is to replicate his success from the European stage onto the domestic league.
Rafa is a mediocre manager because he requires luck more than his abulities to take Liverpool into 2007 Champions League Final.In 2005 against AC Milan, he was lucky that Liverpool manage to score 3 goals in 6 minutes which is average 1 goal in 2 minutes to stay alive.Against Barcelona in current knock-out stage of the tournament, Rafa was lucky not to lose by 0-2 in return leg.In 2nd leg against Chelsea, Liverpool was fortunate when unlucky Drogba missed a clear sitter to equalise towards the end of the game which will put The Blues into the finals.
Criteria to be the best, one must count of his abilities rather than luck to Cups.Besides winning Champions League he must also win EPL consistently which Rafa fails to win even one title.
The one and only manager suits the criteria is Sir Alex Ferguson.His abilities in winning European Cup Winners Cup, Champions League and EPL with Manchester United surpasses all current managers.Newcastle in 1996 and Arsenal in 2003 were far ahead of Manchester United for EPL Title.Due to Ferguson's extraodinary skills, he managed to smash and grab the crown from them.In 1999 Champions League Final, his well-rehearsed corner kicks to score goals resulted in equaliser and winning goals during 4 minutes of injury time.
This shows Sir Alex Ferguson is tactically nifty and confirms he is the best among Benitez, Mourinho and Wenger by reclaiming EPL Title from Chelsea and a likely hood in winning FA Cup too.
From: Chester Low
Hey q-s, Rafael Benitez has already explained it to the Liverpool fans.
The reason why Liverpool has been losing the premiership matches is mainly because it isn't important now for Liverpool. Having secured european football next season, he has done his job. Benitez is focusing more on the Champions League now.
He is also allowing the younger players and players that have returned from injury to play the remaining 'spare' matches. Examples would be Kewell who featured in last night's match. The young players who featured in these spare matches include Paletta, Insua and Padelli.
I would agree with anyone that at the start of the season, Liverpool's away form was atrocious! But they start to pick up in the middle of the season.
The point that you state regarding why Rafa is only good at Champions League and not the Premiership is quite true. His stage is probably the Champions League then. Give him some time, it's only his third season.
Come on Chester, by saying Rafa was lucky that Liverpool manage to score the 3 goals in 6 minutes is practically crap.
A goal or two might be so called 'lucky', but not all three?
And when Drogba missed that chance to win the tie, it's luck. Don't make people laugh. Jamie Carragher was amazing that night. He defended well and kept Drogba quiet.
AND STOP BEING BIASED AND OVERCONFIDENT.
BIASED, ALEX IS THE BEST. LOOK AT THE TIME RAFA AND ALEX SPENT AT THE CLUB. A DECADE AND MORE OF A DIFFERENCE.
OVERCONFIDENT, AT FIRST, SAYING MAN U WILL WIN THE CL CUP. AND AFTER THEY LOSE, YOU GIVE THE CRAP THAT YOU KEPT IT KNOWING IN YOUR HEART THAT MAN UTD WON'T BE THIRD TIME LUCKY.
WHATEVER.
The question is "Using the Champions League's broader stage as a platform, is Liverpool's Rafael Benitez actually the most tactically nifty, and therefore, the "best" manager among the Big Four (Ferguson, Mourinho and Wenger) in England.
Alex Fergusion is without doubt the king of EPL but he won once in Europe in 1999. That's a long time ago! Mourinho is considered to be one of the best coaches in Europe, having won four consecutive league titles (two at Porto and two at Chelsea) and also the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Cup with Porto. For two consecutive years (2004 and 2005), Mourinho was named the world's best football coach by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS).
In 2002 Rafael Benitez led Valencia to their first La Liga title since 1971 and in 2004 he led the club to a La Liga/UEFA Cup double. In 2005 he guided Liverpool to victory in the UEFA Champions League. Again is 2007 he led Liverpool to the finals of Champions League, knocking out Mourinho led Chelsea.
So, for the recent history shows Rafael Bentiz is king of Champion League. The current Liverpool is a better than the 2005 team. So, I think he will outwit AC Milan in 2007 again. And I think with more money, he will set his sights on EPL.
Samuel Ng, Finance manager
Livepool fan
Based on results alone, Benitez is without a doubt the best. 2 finals in 3 seasons, what more can one say?
Look at Chelsea. They are no longer "the invincibles". Any team can now come to Stamford Bridge and steal a draw or even a win because all Mourinho has in his bag is now common knowledge. If not for the individual brilliance of Drogba, they could well be further down the table.
Fergie? He deserves credit for all that he has achieved over the past years. However, the Champions League is really a game of mental strength. Look at their final game against Milan. After that second goal, United are as good as dead even though they had a good 60 minutes left to play with. What did the "magical inspirational half time team talk" (if there was one) do for the team? If Benitez were in charge, it could well have been another magnificent comeback. We all know what the man is capable of. Afterall, he was down by 3 against the same team led by the same manager before. He came back and won. This marks the difference.
Finally, Arsene Wenger has led a mediocre life the past 2 years. He has been with the Gunners for the past decade. Other than last season final, he never really came anywhere close to winning. His style has been too British. Pumping long balls up to the strikers does not work against the skilful Spaniards and Italians.
The Premier League is truly lucky to have Benitez. For he is one Wenger, Ferguson and Mourinho can learn from.
Coincidence or not.Rafa seems to be in the right league at the right time.When he was coaching in La Liga,the Spanish teams was the dominant force in Europe.Meer mention of the names like Real Madrid,Valencia and Deportivo sent shiver down the spine of their opponent at that time.
Since he shifted to England,Europe domination shifted to England too.Man U and Arsenal both youthful side start to make an impression,Chelsea with Jose took over the bragging rights in EPL while Rafa started his own Rafa-lution with his shrewd tactics which work wonders in Europe but not so in the league.After a few seasons in the fast-pace EPL,he still doesn't seem to be able to find the right way to play his very capable team.So perhaps he should be called the best continental coach which sounds more appropriate.
Benitez prides himself on the immense preparation before every single game whether in Europe or domestic. However, as the game in Europe is based more on tactics compared to the hustle and bustle in the EPL, he tends to achieve more in Europe. Can that be considered best? Unfortunately not. If he cannot even win the EPL which should be considered his bread and butter, how else can he match up to the rest of the managers who have won the EPL. His supporters would of course argue that he has won the La Liga with Valencia. Yes, he has won the Spanish title in the past. But so far, he has failed in his most immediate mission and that is to win the EPL. Ask any long serving Liverpool fan, i mean a true Red from Merseyside and they would definitely swap the Champions League (provided they win it) for the EPL title after 19 years (i admit i lost count). As a Man U fan, though i was disappointed by the exit at the hands of AC Milan, I will be more than happy if they win the EPL, ending Chelsea's run of PL wins. Perhaps, Benitez needs more time to master the English game, buy more steelhardened instead of flair players to suit the physical part of the English game and we could see a title challenging Liverpool next season (yeah, and that's what they say every close season).
I am not siding Fergie just because he's Man U's boss but his record says everything. And I am not blinded like a certain Utd supporter here who attributed scoring 2 injury time goals to a well rehearsed move because i will like to be more objective. Looking at the titles that Fergie won and the great sides he built especially in the 90's when Utd was almost untouchable in the EPL, I think Fergie is still the ultimate wily tactician amongst the four. The rest still have lots to match up in terms of consistency and perhaps know-how.
cheers,
kel
>>Look at Chelsea. They are no longer "the invincibles".
What are you talking about? Wasn't that the nickname for the Arsenal team that went unbeaten in the league for one whole season?
>>Any team can now come to Stamford Bridge and steal a draw or even a win because all Mourinho has in his bag is now common knowledge.
Um, no team has beaten Chelsea at Stamford Bridge for 94 games except a superb Barcelona side with us 1 man down. And in the premier league, not beaten in three years.
>>If not for the individual brilliance of Drogba, they could well be further down the table.
While I concede that this is true, can I also say that without Christiano Ronaldo, Man Utd might not have been at the top ofthe league?
The competition here is between Rafa and Ferguson. Mourinho and Wenger espcially, are out of the picture.
Rafa's third season with Liverpool and he has won the UEFA Champions League and the European Super Cup. With another finals to go.
Alex's twentieth season with Manchester United and he has won Champions League, European Cup Winners Cup, UEFA Super Cup and a Intercontinental Cup.
Seventeen seasons of contrast, the honours in European football is not too far apart.
Therefore, I would conclude that Alex Ferguson is the best among the Big 4 Bosses for now. Benitez is being the dark horse for now.
Ernest, I read a very interesting story about how Manchester United can have points deducted for a breach in premier league rules. It could make for a good story for your next publishing.
PS I realise that sounded very "q-s ish" but I have some links here.
The Guardian and News of the World covered it.
http://football.guardian.co.uk/breakingnews/feed
story/0,,-6611156,00.html
http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/
story_pages/
sport/sport1.shtml
Its a good read.
An undeniable fact remains - Liverpool performs better in cup matches. Benitez is a focused manager who knows the strengths of his team. 2 UCL finals in 3 seasons is not easy. If we are to grade Benitez solely base on what Liverpool's achievements in Europe, yes he is the best amongst the four.
But if we were to consider domestic achievements on top of Europe, then clearly Liverpool is lagging behind the other Big Three. I don't think Liverpool fans are satisfied with talking 'gap points'. They are more interested in the league title rather than just a UCL qualifying position.
However the bar for winning the league has been set so high that something has to give somewhere and unfortunately for Chelsea and Man U, it is the UCL this season. Perhaps with the lesson learnt this season, they will come back with a better squad that is capable of challenging on all fronts.
An important lesson that the other three managers can learn from Benitez is the power of focus. Perhaps they should pool their resources and concentrate on the league and UCL and give less priority to domestic cup matches. Kudos to Benitez for that!
p/s: Hi Ernest, I've changed my blogging nick to ah fu
ah fu aka Lim Boon Hock
email: wenfu82@gmail.com
the rest of the contacts remain the same.
Since the actual question is Using the Champions League's broader stage as a platform(I don't know why some people keep harping on the EPL which is totally out of point here), I definitely AGREE that Rafa is the best TACTICALLY among Arsene, Mourinho with Sir ALex being a close second..
He is the one who inspired a team of lesser known but talented players to beileve in themselves and made them believe that the impossible is possible..Other managers might throw in the towel after being thrashed 3-0 at half time by a superior team like AC Milan but not RAFA..
Liverpool have faced many opponents that have far better players(Barcelona, Juventus & Chelsea) but it is the tactics by Rafa that made all the difference between Liverpool and their opponents..
For me these are sufficient evidences that RAFA IS THE BEST OF THE BIG 4 BOSSES
Lady,you only read the first part of the question.It ends with the big 4 in England.Now tell me that have nothing to do with EPL.
Let’s take them as students, the Champions League as the external examinations (eg.PSLE/O levels/A levels) and EPL as the school internal tests and examinations.
Ferguson is akin to a disciplined student who thinks that by following a strict schedule, he will get what he wants. But by being hard on himself, he cannot bring out his best consistently.
Mourinho is like the gifted student who views himself as the elite. That’s where he falters because he is over-confident with his external examinations that he doesn’t do much studying but rather made the preparations based on his knowledge and experience.
Wenger is the inquisitive student. He likes to study creatively and learn more than the syllabus requires. His preference for style over substance resulted in him being an under-achiever.
Thus, they may do well in EPL but the CL’s charm seems to elude them.
Bring in Rafa the examinations-smart student. He put his focus on the external examinations which is the one that matters. He knows where the big prize is and his tactics worked well.
Though this pragmatic way of determining who’s the best student is not a good indicator, EPL bosses do think like Singaporeans.
2 issues:
1. That’s where he falters because he is over-confident with his external examinations that he doesn’t do much studying
Mourinho doesn't do much studying? I should think not for Mourinho is known for having a dossier full of facts of his opponents.
2. Bring in Rafa the examinations-smart student. He put his focus on the external examinations which is the one that matters.
The one that matters is the Champs League? I doubt so. I think most players in the Liverpool side like Gerrard and Carra would rather claim the EPL than the Champs League.
Cheers,
kel
cfcfan,
The Premier League has cleared both Man U and Everton for any wrongdoing.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=428078&cc=4716
And so, meet the new EPL Champions!
Ah, it won't matter anyway. Manchester United are Champions! And deservedy so. You have my congratulations!
Its been a week of deja vu isn't it.Firstly Milan will lock horns with Liverpool in the Champion League final again,a replay of the fascinating game 2 seasons ago.
Back then Chelsea won their first ever EPL title before their trip to Old Trafford and the Manchester United lads lined up as Guards of Honour welcoming the new champions.Right now,the roles and the venue have been reversed.
Both teams have been tussling for that title all season long and their quality were never in doubt.Well done.The Blues never gave up right to the last minute,we got to admire that but we shouldn't take the credit off the Devils.They did play the best football and deservingly won the EPL after missing it for 3 seasons.
Cheers to the Champions!
Look forward Chelsea. We have a sneak preview of the FA Cup coming up. And when it comes to the real thing, I know we are more than capable of winning the FA Cup. A FA Cup and Carling Cup double for Chelsea! Go Chelsea!!
As a Chelsea fan I, Qyaerus-Syahrein, would love to see a crushing blow to Manchester United's double hopes.
to evertonian: stop smirking, you're only as scary as a kitten.. :P (sorry, couldn't resist it)
Oh well, congrats to Man U for being title champs! As much as I dislike you guys and have been hoping Chelsea would catch up for months, there's no two ways about it: Man Utd deserved to win. Perhaps a few factors swayed it their way, but since Man Utd led the table from practically start to finish and they've played some really good football, I don't think many of us can argue much about them winning their 16th league title (right?).
Rafa Benitez, Best in Spain.
Jose Mournho, Best in Portugal.
Arsene Wenger, Best in France.
Alex Ferguson, Best in Scotland.
Haha. McClaren Best in England!
Cheers. :)
Back to serious note, though Rafa has done quite well in his first three seasons in England, he is not the best manager among the four,yet.
Till now, only Ferguson and Mourinho are good enough for the so called best among the four in England.
There is only one "Special One" and that is Rafa Benitez. It's easy for Moanrinho to say his team have won nearly 60 more Premiership points since both managers arrived in England. But the undeniable fact is he inherited a team far closer to challenging for major honours after spending an obscene amount of money, which brought him two league titles. Chelsea's two strikers alone (or their bench for that matter) cost considerably more than Liverpool's starting XI. It took Benitez just one season to totally eclipse his predecessor in the Champions League, while Moanrinho has yet to take his team any further than Ranieri.
Sir Alex had his fair share of luck and the treble winning season depended largely on the heroics of one man - Peter Schmiechel. Arsene Wenger could not boast of a domestic or European record comparable with the other three and he relied too much on Henry to deliver.
Rafa, despite his mediocre team, is almost unbeatable over two-legs of a Cup tie. Now that is the true sign of a master tactician.
hey kel,
1. Mourinho doesn't do much studying? I should think not for Mourinho is known for having a dossier full of facts of his opponents.
What I meant was he often under-estimate his opponents. Take a good look at his preparations against Liverpool. He has the knowledge and experience against them but he doesn't use them wisely.
2. The one that matters is the Champs League? I doubt so. I think most players in the Liverpool side like Gerrard and Carra would rather claim the EPL than the Champs League.
hmm as I said, Rafa is the student. Hence, in this case, his players would probably be his notes (which means whatever Gerrard or Carra thinks is not taken in consideration). & to me, Rafa seems to place more importance on CL.
yep ;)
At Emirates - Chelsea rest in peace after abdicating EPL Throne To Rightful Owners Manchester United.
At Stamford Bridge - Chelsea finally loses their unbeaten home record for this season to Manchester United.
At New Wembley - It is Chelsea's Burial Ground After Failing Their Quest For FA Cup.
At Athens - Liverpool Will Never Walk Alone Crying In Another Defeat In Champions League Final.
From: Chester Low
Don't be too confident for every single thing you say or predict. In the world of football, anything and everything can happen.
There is no use in quarelling now on who should win. Our predictions and quarelling wouldn't change the scores and outcome of a match.
Chester, I don't mean to attack you in anyway, but I expect a more rationale, mature and humble approach from a 42 year old guy.
We are the champions once again. IT ENDS THERE!!! The bragging rights only lasts till the next ball is kicked on the opening day of the next Premiership season.
The reason why we are being labelled as arrogant twats for the past decade or so is because we get too carried away with our harpings and celebrations. And we all know that pride comes before a fall. We don't want to end up like some fans who only talk about past glories and "5 Times! 5 Times!" do we???
Enjoy the season while it lasts, but also think through the shortcomings we had like our failure to beat Arsenal twice, losing to Celtic, Copenhagen, Milan and Roma. We could not even beat the outgoing Champions at home, what divine right do we have to end their home record and make Wembley their burial ground???
And to take a potshot at a team who has a better European pedigree than us also smacks of disrespect and arrogance. True, I hate that team too but as it is, they are going to Athens and not us.
I'm trying to dispel this notion that United fans are all smugs, scums and manure. If my fellow Unitedites revel in this sort of behaviour, then I for one do not wish to be associated with these glory hunters...
P.S. Victory is sweet but let's not forget how Chelsea gave us a good fight all season long. They should be applauded for their indomitable spirit. Though I am wondering how a certain John Obi Mikel must be feeling right now even though he's gone out to say he has no regrets...
We seems to be comparing Oranges to Watermelons.
4 Different Clubs, 4 Different Managers, 4 Different Styles of Play and Management, 4 Different Histories behind each Club.
Statistics says it all for Rafa Benitez in Europe compared to his counterparts of the Big 4.
He may be Spot-On and Tactically nifty in Europe,
But given the contrast in results he has shown in the EPL, he maybe a bit below-par compared to the rest.
Each of the Other Big 4 managers have won the EPL title in their reign as Managers (and are still winning)
Sir Alex Ferguson & Jose Mourinho have each won the Champions League with the only exception of Arsene Wenger.
Until Rafa Benitez have brought the EPL trophy back to Anfield, only then would people consider him on Par with the rest of the Big 4.
Do Well in Your Domestic League, and then conquer Europe. This would then truly shows that you have the quality to win in the Domestic League and then fight for the bigger Prize in the Champions League
Pujangga Malam
Thank you for remembering my age.^_^
Reminding me of my rationale that is would you want to see Chelsea create another Arsenal's 49 match unbeaten run in EPL?
When is the best time to break Chelsea's unbeaten home record and deny them a possible 49 match unbeaten run?
A Defeated Dejected Low-Morale Chelsea who just lost it's EPL Crown playing against recently Crowned 2007 EPL Champions Manchester United whose High Morale With Confidence, have higher percentage of winning and breaking Chelsea's unbeaten home record to prevent a possible 49 match unbeaten run.Or do you expect inept visiting Everton, who can't defend 2-0 lead and went on to lose 2-4 at home to Manchester United, to win at Fortress Stamford Bridge on the last day of the season?
I Don't Deny Chelsea Under Mourinho Is Formidable And Gave A Strong Challenge In 2006-2007 EPL Campaign With A Possibility Of Remaining Unbeaten Next Season And Go On To Surpass 49 Match Mark.The Best Chance To Break Unbeaten Run Which Is At Stamford Bridge Where Guard Of Honour Will Be Given To Manchester United By Mourinho.
Reminding me of my maturity.I myself a matured man, to Pujangga Malam also another matured man, would like to remind you that Liverpool fans, who are in self-denial, Denied Their Club Were LUCKY To Win By A Controversial Goal in 2005 Champions League Semi-Finals against Chelsea and Scoring Undeserving Lucky 3 Goals in 6 Minutes Against AC MIlan In 2005 Finals.
You And I As A Mature Person, Is One Who Always Want To See Their Favourite Team Or Loved Ones To Be Winners And Successful In Their Undertakings.Our Differences Or Different Levels, That Is The Way We Show Our Joy.
Reminding Of My Humble Approach - The Way Of Reminding Detractors Is Whenever Manchester United Wins It's EPL Crown And Happens To Be In The FA Cup Finals In The Same Season - Manchester United Went On To Win The FA Cup Final Like 1994 Double, 1996 Double And 1999 Double.Including 2007 Double, Sir Alex Ferguson Wins 4 Sets Of Doubles including 1991 European Cup Winners Cup, 1999 Champions League and remaining 5 Single EPL Titles.This Is The Humble Approach To Tell Detractors Sir Alex Ferguson Is The Best Of The Big 4 Bosses.^_^
You And I have diffrent perceptions and opinions with the ways of viewing.But You, Just Like Me, Have A Rationale, Mature And Our Humble Approach In Handlings.I believe my explanations will dispel your misconceptions.^_^
From:Chester Low
Name : Qyaerus-Syahrein
Age : 25
Occupation : Delifrance Server
Favourite team : Chelsea
Okay q-s,
You've made a good start at least for this one.
We'll be watching closely more from now on...
Cheers,
The Postman
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