Arsenal must ensure they avoid repeating Man Utd’s history with Emery sacking
This article is part of Football FanCast’s Opinion series, which provides analysis, insight and opinion on any issue within the beautiful game, from Paul Pogba’s haircuts to League Two relegation battles…
When Sir Alex Ferguson made his departure from Manchester United back in the summer of 2013, the Red Devils surely could not have envisaged a scenario where over six years later, they would have no Premier League trophies, and on to their fourth permanent manager.
There has been a constant sense of muddle and disjointedness at Old Trafford, and it is little surprise to see them well outside the top four at the moment, and losing to the likes of FC Astana. They are the ultimate symbol of how quickly things can go wrong, and how difficult it can be to change things around.
And having sacked Unai Emery on Friday morning, Arsenal must ensure they do everything that they can to avoid repeating their rivals’ concerning recent history. When the Spaniard took over from Arsene Wenger, it was suggested at the time that it was a “unanimous” decision to appoint him. With his three successive Europa League titles with Sevilla, it certainly had merit to it.
But fast forward 18 months later, and the Gunners have parted ways with a manager who has overseen their worst run without a victory since Feburary 1992. Already, there are suggestions that the likes of Wolves’ Nuno Espirito Santo, Napoli’s Carlo Ancelotti and even the out-of-work Massimiliano Allegri are under consideration to replace Emery.
When it comes to deciding the former Gunners boss’ successor, the north London side’s hierarchy must be fundamentally aware of ensuring they don’t travel to the complete extremes. Just look at the transition from Jose Mourinho to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at United, to see a snapshot of such a decision. The two appear to be polar opposites, certainly in terms of their man-management, with the former an abrasive personality, and the latter more jovial.
Such a disparate change can lead to even more confusion amongst the playing squad, and it’s something Arsenal will need to be wary of. The Gunners need to learn from their rivals’ mistake, and go for a manager who aligns with their own philosophy, rather than simply the ‘best’ candidate available. On paper, Ancelotti and Allegri’s CV at both domestic and European level is unparalleled, with the former winning three Champions Leagues, and the latter reaching two finals.
But are they the perfect fit for what Arsenal want? It is why the Gunners’ reported interest in Mikel Arteta should be encouraging for the Emirates faithful. A former captain of the club, who knows them inside out, and is learning from Pep Guardiola and his philosophy. It points to a sense of direction and purpose to their thinking, and a very reassuring sign that they are learning from United’s fatal mistakes.
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