Blog Update #20 – Arsenal – 2028/29 - 05

Season Run-In – “Nine Games from Immortality”

Overview and News

There are moments in a season where everything sharpens—where the noise quiets, the focus narrows, and every decision begins to carry a little more weight. This is one of those moments. Nine league games to go, cup competitions still alive, and everything we’ve worked towards now sits within touching distance.

If I’m being honest, I’m having a great time at Arsenal. There’s a real sense of belonging that has grown over the months—not just with the players, but with the staff, the supporters, and the rhythm of the club itself. It doesn’t feel temporary anymore. It feels like something I’m building, something I’m part of.

Recently, I sat down with Sky Sports for an interview reflecting on my first season back in England. It was a moment to pause, even if briefly, and look at the bigger picture. We spoke about returning home, about being closer to family and friends again, and how much that matters. Football can be all-consuming, but those connections ground you—they remind you why you do what you do.

I told them something that I truly believe: I don’t just want a team of players and staff who come in, do their jobs, and go home. I want something deeper than that. I want connection, trust, and relationships that go beyond football. I want people who look out for each other, who celebrate together, who suffer together. Not just colleagues—friends.

Because when the pressure comes, and it always does at this stage of the season, those bonds are what carry you through.

And right now, I can feel that unity growing stronger with every passing week.

Where We Stand

Premier League

2nd Position, 

29 played, 

21 won, 6 draw, 2 lost, 

72 scored, 25 conceded, 

69 points.

The table is tight—painfully tight. Just one point separates us from Liverpool at the top, but the detail that matters most is this: we have two games in hand.

That changes everything.

It means the title is not just a possibility—it’s firmly within our control. But control only matters if you take advantage of it. Games in hand mean nothing if you don’t win them.

Since the last update, we’ve played six league games, winning four and drawing two. On paper, it’s solid. In reality, it feels like we’ve navigated a difficult stretch with resilience more than brilliance.

The two draws—both 1-1 away at Newcastle and Tottenham—were games where margins were fine. Tough environments, difficult opposition, and while you always want three points, sometimes avoiding defeat is just as important in a title race.

But there’s one result that stands above the rest.

Our 3-2 victory over Liverpool at the Emirates.

That game had everything. Intensity, quality, nerves. We started like a team possessed—3-0 up after just 23 minutes, everything flowing, everything clicking. For that opening spell, we were unplayable.

And then reality hit.

Liverpool pulled one back. Then another. Suddenly the game shifted from control to survival. The momentum turned, the crowd grew tense, and every moment felt decisive. But this time, we didn’t fold.

We held on.

That’s what title contenders do. Not every win is perfect. Not every performance is dominant. Sometimes, it’s about resilience, about digging in, about finding a way.

That result didn’t just give us three points—it gave us belief.

Cup Competitions

Carabao Cup: Winners – Arsenal 1-0 Manchester City

Our first trophy of the season.

And what a strange, fascinating game it was. Manchester City dominated possession, controlled territory, and dictated the rhythm. It wasn’t the type of match we usually thrive in.

But football isn’t always about control.

We defended with discipline, stayed compact, and when our moment came—we took it. One chance, one goal, one trophy.

There’s something satisfying about winning in a way that’s different from your usual style. It shows adaptability, maturity, and belief in the system, even when you’re under pressure.

Lifting that trophy felt important—not just for the silverware, but for what it represents. Proof that this team can win.

FA Cup: Quarter Finals – vs Brighton

Our journey here has been convincing. A 5-0 win over Crystal Palace showed our attacking quality, while the 4-2 victory against Oxford United tested our patience and professionalism.

Now, Brighton stand in our way. A well-coached, dangerous side capable of causing problems. At this stage, there are no easy games—only opportunities.

Europa League: Quarter Finals – vs PSV

This one feels personal.

PSV isn’t just another opponent—it’s a club that holds memories for me. Three years of my playing career spent there, a place that shaped me in ways people don’t always see. Walking back into that environment, even as an opponent, will be special.

But sentiment only lasts until the whistle blows.

We’ve been dominant in Europe so far, and our 6-2 aggregate win over OGC Nice in the Round of 16 reinforced that. Clinical, controlled, professional.

Now the challenge increases.

And I expect us to rise with it.

Home Grown Graduate

Edor Cadogan
 

7 starts, 0 substitute appearances, 0 goals, 0 assists, 6.89 average rating.

There’s always something special about seeing a young player come through the system. It represents more than just talent—it represents identity, continuity, and the future of the club.

Edor’s journey this season has been steady rather than spectacular.

The reality is, at the start of the campaign, he wasn’t quite ready for this level. That’s not criticism—it’s honesty. The jump to elite football is significant, and not everyone makes it immediately.

But circumstances change.

Benjamin White’s departure in January opened a door, and to Edor’s credit, he’s stepped through it with composure. He hasn’t looked out of place, and that’s the first step. Defensively, he’s been solid, reliable, and willing to learn.

Where he needs to improve is in the final third. Modern full-backs must contribute going forward, and right now, that’s the missing piece in his game.

But that will come.

The important thing is that he’s gaining experience, understanding the level, and growing into the role. Players like him are long-term investments—not just in ability, but in identity.

Performance Spotlight

Best Performing Players

Bukayo Saka
 

29 starts, 6 substitute appearances, 

20 goals, 18 assists, 

7.58 average rating.

At this moment in time, I genuinely believe there isn’t a player in world football performing at his level.

Thirty-eight goal contributions. And that’s despite missing two months of the season.

It’s not just the numbers—it’s the moments. The consistency. The ability to influence games when it matters most. He’s become the player everyone looks to when something needs to happen.

Keeping him beyond this season will be one of the most important challenges we face.

Because players like this don’t come around often.

Saba Kharebashvili
 

35 starts, 4 substitute appearances, 

1 goal, 3 assists, 

7.28 average rating.

If Saka is our spark, Saba is our foundation.

At just 19, his level of consistency is remarkable. His contributions may not always show in goals or assists, but his impact is everywhere—link-up play, defensive positioning, decision-making.

He brings balance to the team.

There’s a maturity to his game that you rarely see at that age. He understands space, timing, and responsibility in a way that elevates those around him.

Awards like the Golden Boy don’t surprise me when I watch him play.

Worst Performing Players

Martin Zubimendi
 

40 starts, 9 substitute appearances, 

1 goal, 4 assists, 

6.91 average rating.

He’s in a difficult position—both literally and figuratively.

The defensive midfield role is often overlooked. When it’s done well, it goes unnoticed. When it’s not, it stands out immediately. Zubimendi hasn’t been poor—far from it—but he’s been… steady.

And in a team where others are excelling, steady can look underwhelming.

The truth is, his role is crucial. He provides structure, balance, and protection. Letting him go would create more problems than it solves.

Viktor Gyökeres
 

31 starts, 3 substitute appearances, 

15 goals, 4 assists, 

6.89 average rating.

Fifteen goals is a solid return. On paper, there’s no issue.

But football isn’t always about numbers—it’s about impact relative to expectation. In a team performing at such a high level, he’s slightly behind the curve.

That doesn’t mean he’s been poor—it means the standard around him has risen.

Competition might be the key here. Sometimes, players need that extra push, that sense of pressure, to unlock another level.

And that’s something I’ll be considering moving forward.

Low Match Ratings Tracker

Gyökeres – 2x (6.00, 5.50)

Martinelli – 1x (5.90)

Gabriel Jesus – 1x (5.90)

Saka – 1x (5.90)

Standards remain non-negotiable. Even the best players are held accountable.

Fan Reaction

The supporters have been incredible.

There’s a belief building—not just hope, but genuine belief that this could be a special season. You can feel it in the stadium, in the way they react, in the energy they bring.

Winning the Carabao Cup has only amplified that feeling.

Fan Quotes:

“This team feels different. You can see the fight in them—we’re not just playing well, we’re winning ugly when we need to.”

“Beating Liverpool like that… that’s a title-winning performance. We’re right in this.”

“First trophy in the bag, still fighting on all fronts—this could be one of the best seasons we’ve had in years.”

“You can tell the players believe in the manager. There’s a connection there now, and the fans feel it too.”

Nine games to go.

Everything still to play for.

Now it’s about finishing what we started.

Blog Update #19 – Arsenal – 2028/29 - 04

Mid-Season Update and January Transfers – “Pressure Builds at the Summit”

Overview and News

There’s a different kind of feeling around the club now compared to the early weeks of the season. Back then it was about establishing identity, about proving that what we were building had substance. Now, as we step into February, it feels like something far more serious—expectation, pressure, and the quiet understanding that this could become something special if we handle it correctly.

On a personal level, life in North London continues to settle into a rhythm that feels both demanding and rewarding. My place in Hadley has become a sanctuary of sorts. It’s quiet, removed from the constant noise of the game, yet close enough to feel connected to everything. There’s a certain pride in that—coming from where I’ve come from, I’ve never lost sight of my roots, but I’ve also accepted that I now operate at an elite level. That demands a different lifestyle, a different mindset, and a certain level of discipline in how I carry myself both on and off the pitch.

Recognition has followed our performances, which is always a reflection of the players as much as it is the manager. Winning four of the six Manager of the Month awards so far this season is something I’m proud of—not for the accolade itself, but for what it represents. Consistency. Standards. A team that shows up week after week with purpose and intent.

Perhaps the standout individual achievement, however, belongs to Saba Kharebashvili, who has been awarded the European Golden Boy. It’s a huge moment for him and for the club. Awards like that don’t just happen—they’re earned through performances, dedication, and the willingness to improve every single day. Seeing one of our own recognised on that stage sends a message: we are building something that is being noticed across Europe.

But with recognition comes expectation, and that’s something we must continue to embrace rather than shy away from.

Where We Stand

Premier League

2nd Position,

23 played, 

17 won, 4 draw, 2 lost, 

54 scored, 20 conceded, 

55 points.

The league table tells a story, but not the full story. Yes, we sit second, level on points with Liverpool, narrowly behind on goal difference—but context matters. We have a game in hand, and that gives us control, or at least the opportunity to take control. It’s now about whether we can handle that responsibility.

Manchester City sit six points behind, but with a game in hand of their own, which means this title race is far from a two-horse contest. It’s tight, competitive, and unforgiving—exactly what you expect at this level.

Since the last update, our form has been strong overall, though not without its challenges. Nine wins from thirteen games is solid, but the two draws and two defeats highlight areas we still need to refine. December, in particular, tested us. One win in five games is not the standard we set for ourselves, and it served as a reminder that momentum can disappear quickly if standards drop even slightly.

The defeat away to West Ham still lingers in my mind. Losing 2-1 to a side in the bottom half is unacceptable if you’re serious about winning the league. Those are the games that define title races—not just the big clashes, but the ones where professionalism and focus must carry you through.

The loss to Liverpool, on the other hand, was different. They were better on the night, and sometimes you have to accept that. What matters is how you respond.

And we responded emphatically.

Our 3-0 win over Manchester United at the Emirates was one of the most complete performances I’ve seen from this group. What made it so satisfying wasn’t just the scoreline—it was how we controlled the game without the ball. They had 63% possession, yet created almost nothing. We, meanwhile, had 24 shots to their 2. That is what “out of possession” football looks like when executed properly. Discipline, structure, and understanding.

It wasn’t just a win—it was a statement.

Cup Competitions

Carabao Cup:
 

We’ve reached the final, where Manchester City await.

Our route hasn’t been easy. A 2-0 win over Manchester United in the quarter-finals showed control and maturity, but it was the semi-final against Tottenham that truly tested us. A 4-3 aggregate victory over our North London rivals is always special, but more importantly, it showed resilience. Two legs, high intensity, moments of pressure—and we came through it.

Now, one game stands between us and silverware.

FA Cup:
 

We’ve edged into the 4th round, where Crystal Palace await.

The tie against Brentford in the 3rd round was far more difficult than it should have been. Winning 3-2 after extra time despite having 38 shots to their 6 tells you everything. It wasn’t about tactics—it was about efficiency. Games like that can punish you if you’re not clinical, and it’s something we must improve.

Europa League:
 

League phase: 1st Position, 8 played, 8 won, 0 draw, 0 lost, 29 scored, 6 conceded, 24 points.

This competition has gone exactly as I expected so far. Eight games, eight wins—it’s dominance. We’ve approached every match with professionalism, regardless of the opposition, and the results reflect that.

There are tougher challenges ahead in the knockout rounds, but based on what I’ve seen, we have every right to believe we can go all the way.

Medical Room

I’ve always maintained that injuries are part of the game. Complaining about them achieves nothing. If anything, they force you to adapt, to think differently, and sometimes to discover solutions you wouldn’t have otherwise considered.

That said, we’ve had our fair share this season.

Piero Hincapié’s two-month absence with a lower back stress fracture came at a difficult time—right at the start of the season when we were still building defensive cohesion. Losing a player of his quality that early disrupted our rhythm, but it also forced others to step up.

Bukayo Saka’s two separate injuries, also keeping him out for a combined two months, were perhaps the most impactful. He’s a key player in how we function offensively, and while others filled in admirably, there’s no denying the difference he makes.

Myles Lewis-Skelly’s absence was less disruptive in terms of immediate impact, given his role as cover, but it still limited our options. Meanwhile, Gabriel Martinelli’s six-week spell out with a calf strain tested our depth on the left side—but it also created an opportunity.

And that opportunity was taken.

Madueke stepped in and elevated his game, showing exactly why squad depth is so important over the course of a long season.

There have been other injuries too, smaller ones, but collectively they’ve added up. It’s something I’ll be reviewing closely moving forward—not as an excuse, but as an area where marginal gains can be made.

Transfer Window Review

January is not a window I particularly enjoy. It’s reactive, unpredictable, and often driven by circumstance rather than strategy. This window was no different.

Transfers In:

We brought in two players, both for the future as much as the present, spending a total of £24.25m.

Thiago Pérez – £8.5m (Huracán)

Thiago Pérez is one for the long term. At 19, he has all the attributes you want in a modern full-back—pace, defensive awareness, and intelligence in decision-making. Sending him back on loan was always part of the plan. There’s no benefit in rushing development. In two years, I expect him to be pushing hard for a starting place.

Transfers Out:

Outgoings, however, defined this window.

Benjamin White → Barcelona (£47m)

Selling Benjamin White for £47m to Barcelona was a calculated decision. At 31, with limited time left on his contract, it made sense both financially and strategically. It also opens the door for younger players like Edon Cadogan to step forward.

Gabriel Jesus → Leeds (£10m)

Gabriel Jesus’ departure to Leeds for £10m was more straightforward. With only six months left on his deal and limited impact this season, it was the right time to move on.

Rejected Offers:

We also faced some difficult situations.

Turning down £120m for Saka was not easy. Financially, it’s a huge offer—but football decisions cannot be purely financial. He’s integral to how we play. That said, his desire to leave for that kind of money has created tension, particularly with his wage demands. It’s something we’ll need to manage carefully.

Other offers came and went, some below valuation, some worth considering—but overall, I’m satisfied. This was about maintaining balance, not overreacting.

Dressing Room Dynamics

The dressing room is, overall, in a good place—but not without its challenges.

Saka’s situation is the most delicate. When a player’s head is turned, it’s never straightforward. I’ve made my stance clear: we either receive a fee that reflects his true value, or we keep him. Simple in principle, more complicated in reality.

Timber’s concerns are understandable. Players at this level want Champions League football—it’s the benchmark. I’ve given him my word that if we fail to qualify, we’ll revisit his situation. That’s about honesty and respect.

Madueke’s frustration is different. He wants more minutes, and based on his performances, it’s hard to argue he doesn’t deserve them. But football doesn’t work like that. Selection is about balance, about the team, not the individual.

Managing personalities is as important as managing tactics. It’s about communication, clarity, and ensuring that even when players are unhappy, they remain committed.

So far, we’ve managed that balance well.

Are We on Target to Reach Our Goals?

At this moment in time, the answer is simple: yes.

We are exactly where we need to be.

In the league, we are firmly in the title race, with control still in our hands. In the cups, we are progressing strongly, with a final already secured. In Europe, we have been dominant.

But being on target means nothing if you don’t finish the job.

The second half of the season is where everything is decided. This is where pressure intensifies, where margins become finer, and where mentality often separates success from failure.

We’ve built a strong foundation. Now it’s about maintaining it, pushing further, and ensuring that when the season ends, we have something tangible to show for all of this work.

Because at this level, progress is not enough.

Only outcomes matter.

Blog Update #18 – Arsenal – 2028/29 - 03

Early Season – “A Statement Start in North London”

Overview and News

The early weeks of this new chapter have passed in something of a blur, but in the best possible way. Settling into life in North London has been smoother than I could have imagined, both professionally and personally. There’s a rhythm to this place, a balance between the chaos of elite football and the quiet moments away from it that allow you to reset and refocus.

I’ve found a place out in Hadley, tucked away in Barnet. It’s quiet, refined, and offers just enough distance from the constant noise of the game. It’s the kind of place where you can think clearly, where long evenings are spent reflecting on performances, planning training sessions, or simply taking a moment to appreciate how far things have come. I’ll never forget where I started—those early days, the grind, the uncertainty—but I also recognise where I am now. This is elite football, and my lifestyle has to match the level I operate at.

At the training ground, things feel sharp. There’s a hunger in the squad that I noticed almost immediately. Whether that’s a reaction to last season’s inconsistencies or simply a reflection of the quality within the group, I’m not entirely sure—but it’s there, and it’s driving us forward. Every session has intensity, every drill purpose. The players are buying into the ideas, and more importantly, they’re executing them on the pitch.

There’s still a long way to go, of course. Early success can be deceptive if you allow it to be. But right now, there’s a feeling building here—something that suggests this team might be capable of more than people expected.

Where We Stand

Premier League

1st Position, 

10 played, 8 won, 2 draw, 0 lost, 

23 scored, 9 conceded, 

26 points.

It’s difficult to ask for much more from the opening ten games. Sitting top of the league, unbeaten, and playing a brand of football that is both effective and exciting—it’s a strong foundation to build from.

We currently hold a three-point lead over our North London rivals Tottenham, who themselves have started impressively. That adds an extra layer of satisfaction to our position, but also a reminder that the margin for error remains slim. Liverpool, last season’s champions, sit five points behind us in third, and you can be sure they won’t stay quiet for long.

The two draws we’ve had came early in the campaign—away at Brighton and away at Manchester United. Both games finished level, 1-1 and 2-2 respectively, and if I’m being honest, both were fair results. At that stage, the players were still adjusting to the system, still learning the demands I place on them both with and without the ball. There were moments in those matches where we looked unsure, where our structure broke slightly—but that’s part of the process.

What has pleased me most is the response since.

The standout result so far has to be the 2-1 win against Aston Villa at home. On paper, it might not immediately stand out, but the performance told a different story. We controlled the game from start to finish—59% possession, 29 shots to their 8. It was dominance in every sense.

Interestingly, it was our centre-backs who ultimately decided the game. Gabriel and Mosquera both found the net, stepping up in moments where others perhaps hesitated. It’s always a good sign when goals come from unexpected areas—it shows belief, responsibility, and a willingness to take ownership.

However, the game wasn’t without its cost.

Losing Bukayo Saka to a calf injury for a month was a significant blow. He had been instrumental in our early success, and any time you lose a player of that quality, it forces adjustments. But if anything, it has also provided an opportunity for others to step forward—and some have taken it brilliantly.

Early Cup Competitions

Carabao Cup:
 

We’ve progressed to the quarter-finals, where we will face Manchester United. Our journey so far has been convincing—5-1 victories over both Reading and Millwall. These were matches where we rotated heavily, giving opportunities to squad players, and the response was excellent.

At Girona, squad depth was always something we had to manage carefully. Here, it’s a strength. The ability to rotate without a significant drop in performance is something that will be crucial as the season progresses.

FA Cup:
 

We are yet to enter the competition, with our campaign beginning in January.

Europa League:
 

League Phase: 1st Position – 3 played, 3 won, 0 draw, 0 lost, 10 scored, 2 conceded, 9 points.

This is exactly where I expect us to be.

We’ve approached the Europa League with seriousness and intent, and the results reflect that. Three wins from three, top of the table, and performances that have shown both control and quality.

There are, of course, tougher tests ahead. Marseille, Tottenham, and Juventus all represent potential hurdles. Juventus, in particular, were a team I had my eye on—but having already beaten them in the league phase, it sends a message.

This is a competition we should be going deep in.

Tactics Working?

At this stage, I’d say the system is not just working—it’s evolving.

Tactical Success

The front four have been outstanding in terms of chance creation. Every game, we are generating opportunities, stretching defences, and asking constant questions of the opposition. The movement, the interchanging of positions, the willingness to take risks—it’s all there.

A key component of this has been the box-to-box playmaker role. It’s a demanding position, one that requires intelligence, stamina, and technical ability. But when executed properly, it becomes the heartbeat of the team. Right now, it’s contributing heavily to our attacking output, linking phases of play seamlessly.

Tactical Negatives

That said, there are areas that need improvement.

Defensively, we are not quite where I want us to be. Nine goals conceded in ten games isn’t disastrous, but it’s not at the level I expect from a team with our ambitions. Clean sheets have been harder to come by than I’d like, and that’s something we’re working on daily.

The full-backs, too, need to offer more going forward. In this system, they are critical in providing width and stretching opposition defences. While they’ve been solid defensively, I want to see more impact in the final third—more overlaps, more crosses, more presence.

These aren’t major issues, but at this level, small improvements can make a huge difference.

Performance Spotlight

Best Performing Players

Noni Madueke
 

9 starts, 6 substitute appearances, 

4 goals, 3 assists, 

7.49 average rating.

If there’s one player who has truly seized his opportunity, it’s Madueke. Initially considered a squad option, injuries have given him a chance—and he has taken it emphatically.

Four Man of the Match awards already tell their own story. His directness, confidence, and willingness to take players on have added a different dimension to our attack. It’s the kind of selection headache every manager wants.

Bukayo Saka
 

9 starts, 2 substitute appearances, 

5 goals, 7 assists, 

7.43 average rating.

Even with a month on the sidelines, Saka remains our most productive player. That speaks volumes about his quality and influence.

He sets the standard, both in terms of output and work rate. Getting him back fully fit will be like having a new signing, and I have no doubt he will continue to drive us forward.

Worst Performing Players

Martin Zubimendi
 

15 starts, 1 substitute appearance, 

0 goals, 1 assist, 

6.93 average rating.

This is a difficult one. Zubimendi hasn’t been poor—far from it. But in a team where others are excelling, being “average” can stand out more than it should.

His role is a subtle one, often going unnoticed. Breaking up play, maintaining structure, offering passing options—it’s not glamorous, but it’s vital. I still trust him, and I believe his importance will become even clearer as the season progresses.

Viktor Gyökeres
 

14 starts, 0 substitute appearances, 

8 goals, 0 assists, 

6.94 average rating.

Eight goals in fourteen games would usually be considered a strong return. But again, context matters.

In a team performing at a high level, expectations rise. I want more from him—not just goals, but involvement in build-up play, creating opportunities for others, and being a constant presence.

He’s close to hitting top form. When he does, it could elevate us even further.

Low Match Ratings Watch

Gyökeres – 1x (6.00)

Nothing alarming at this stage, but it’s something I monitor closely. Consistency is key.

Fan Reaction

The supporters have embraced this start wholeheartedly, and you can feel the energy around the club shifting. There’s belief growing—not just in results, but in the way we’re playing.

“This is the best football we’ve played in years—there’s structure, but there’s freedom too. You can see the identity already.”

“Top of the league and unbeaten—what more can you ask for? The manager has completely transformed this team.”

“Even when we draw, you feel like we’re in control. That’s something we’ve not had in a long time.”

“Madueke stepping up, Saka flying, and the whole team working hard—this could be a special season.”

Their voices matter. They always do.

And right now, they believe.

There’s a long road ahead, and I’m under no illusions about the challenges to come. But these early signs—they matter. They set the tone, build confidence, and create momentum.

And momentum, in football, can be everything.

Blog Update #17 – Arsenal – 2028/29 - 02

Season Kick-Off – “Laying the Foundations in North London”

Overview and News

The start of a new season always carries a certain energy, but this one feels different. There’s a sense of stepping into something bigger, something that demands more from me every single day. The badge on my chest now carries weight across the world, and with that comes expectation—but also opportunity.

One of the first things I knew I needed to get right was my environment. At Girona, I had built a backroom team that understood me completely. They knew how I think, how I work, and more importantly, how I want my teams to play. So, bringing some of those familiar faces with me to Arsenal felt essential—not just for continuity, but for stability during what is always a turbulent transition period.

Raúl Valbuena was the first name on my list. My assistant, my right-hand man. He has been with me through everything at Girona, offering clarity in moments of chaos and honesty when it was most needed. There’s a trust there that can’t be manufactured overnight, and having him here already makes this place feel a little more like home.

I also brought in Alexander Zickler to focus on our attacking play. At Girona, our ability to break teams down and consistently find goals was one of our greatest strengths, and Zickler played a huge role in that. His understanding of movement in the final third and his attention to detail in attacking patterns will be crucial for us this season.

I did explore the possibility of bringing in Robbie Fowler, someone whose knowledge of finishing and striker play is undeniable. But football has its rivalries, and Arsenal and Liverpool is one that runs deep. He didn’t feel it was the right move for him, and I respect that. There are some lines in football that even ambition doesn’t cross.

Daniele Baldini completes the group I’ve brought with me. His work on defensive organisation at Girona was exceptional, and considering how important structure is to my system, having him here was non-negotiable.

Back in Spain, I’ve kept a quiet eye on Girona. It’s impossible not to. Íñigo Pérez has taken over, and I’ll be interested to see how he builds on what we left behind. That club will always mean something to me—it was the beginning of everything.

But now, my focus is here.

Board Expectations

The expectations set by the board are clear, structured, and—if I’m being honest—completely fair.

In the Premier League, a top four finish is the minimum requirement. That tells you everything about the level this club expects to operate at. There is no easing into this role, no gradual build without pressure. It’s immediate.

The FA Cup brings its own expectations—reaching the quarter-finals at the very least. Given the club’s recent success in the competition, it’s understandable. There’s pride attached to it now.

The Carabao Cup target is more modest, reaching the fourth round, but even that serves as a reminder that every competition matters here.

There are no expectations for the Community Shield, which in some ways makes it an interesting opportunity—low pressure, but still a chance to set a tone early.

And then there’s the Europa League. A quarter-final finish is the baseline, but in my mind, that competition represents something more. It’s not just about progression—it’s about building a winning mentality on the European stage.

These expectations don’t intimidate me.

They align with my own.

Transfer Window Review

This summer was never going to be about dramatic change.

When you arrive at a new club, especially one with as much quality as Arsenal, the first job is observation. Understanding what you have, identifying strengths, and only then deciding where improvements are needed.

The second factor was financial reality.

Despite the club’s overall stability, I was handed just £7 million to work with initially. That figure doesn’t stretch far in today’s market, especially at this level. So, every decision had to be calculated.

Transfers In:

In the end, we made one key addition.

Saba Kharebashvili – £15.75m (Başakşehir FK)

To make this deal possible i had to manoeuvre some funds to make it happen. He’s a player I’ve been aware of for some time, and winning the NXGN award last year only confirmed what many already believed—this is a special talent.

At just 19 years old, some may question whether he’s ready. I don’t.

He has been playing senior football for three years, and his attributes—pace, passing, and crossing—fit perfectly with what I demand from my full-backs. He will come straight in as our first-choice left-back, and I have full confidence in him stepping up to this level.

Transfers Out:

Outgoing transfers were where most of the movement happened.

Kai Havertz → Bayern Munich (£86m)

The headline departure was Kai Havertz, who joined Bayern Munich for £86 million. It’s never easy letting a player of his quality leave, but at 29 and with Viktor Gyökeres ahead of him in the pecking order, it was a deal that made sense for the club.

Rejected Offers:

We also faced significant interest in key players.

David Raya attracted multiple bids from Inter Milan, rising as high as £48 million. Every one of them was rejected. He is our number one, and I have no intention of weakening that position.

Jurriën Timber’s situation was more complicated. Offers from Real Madrid and Barcelona are not easily dismissed, and he made it clear he wanted to play Champions League football. I understood his position—it’s every player’s ambition.

But I made him a promise.

If we fail to qualify for the Champions League this season, I will not stand in his way next summer.

For now, he stays. And he plays a crucial role in what we’re building.

Tactical Setup

My philosophy remains unchanged.

Out of Possession – 4-4-1-1 DM

Without the ball, discipline is everything.

We will operate in two compact banks of four, closing spaces, forcing errors, and making it incredibly difficult for opponents to play through us. The distance between the lines must remain tight—this is non-negotiable.

The striker will be asked to do more than just lead the line. He must be mobile, intelligent in his pressing, and strong enough to hold the ball when we transition.

This is where control begins.

In Possession – 4-2-3-1 DM

With the ball, we evolve.

The full-backs become vital, providing width and stretching defences. This allows our wingers to move inside, effectively turning the front line into a narrow, dangerous attacking unit.

The attacking midfielder will be key—not just in creativity, but in goals. I expect contributions from that position consistently.

At our best, we will look like a team playing with three strikers, constantly occupying defenders and creating overloads in dangerous areas.

This is how we dominate games.

Squad and The Key Players

There is undeniable quality in this squad.

In goal, David Raya is our clear number one. His shot-stopping, reactions, and composure make him one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the league. Loaning out Jonas Urbig was a strategic decision—I see him as the long-term successor, but he needs regular football.

Defensively, the starting four is exceptional. Timber on the right, Kharebashvili on the left, with Gabriel and Hincapié forming a strong central partnership. It’s a back line capable of competing at the highest level, though depth is an area I’ll be monitoring closely.

In midfield, we are blessed with versatility. Declan Rice, Zubimendi, Barco, and Lewis-Skelly all offer different qualities but can operate seamlessly within the system. That flexibility will be crucial across a long season.

And then there’s the attack.

Saka, Ødegaard, Martinelli, and Gyökeres—on paper, it’s a front line that should terrify defences. My job is to ensure it functions as effectively on the pitch as it does in theory.

Key Players

Bukayo Saka – Wide Forward (Right)
 

He will be the heartbeat of our attacking play. His consistency is remarkable, but I believe there is still another level he can reach. He will be asked to contribute at both ends of the pitch, and if he embraces that challenge, he could define our season.

Declan Rice – Box-to-Box Playmaker
 

He is our engine. Everything will run through him. His ability to carry the ball, break lines, and recover defensively makes him indispensable. This role demands everything—and I believe he is one of the few players capable of delivering it consistently.

Home Grown Graduate

Edon Cadogan is a name I want to keep close.

At just 17 years old, he already shows traits that are difficult to teach—acceleration, determination, and technical ability. Being comfortable on both feet gives him a versatility that is incredibly valuable, especially in defensive positions.

Realistically, his minutes will be limited this season. But that’s not the point.

The point is exposure. Development. Opportunity.

I believe in giving young players a pathway, and if he continues to progress, his time will come sooner than he expects.

Personal Target for the Year

I’ve always believed in setting clear, measurable targets.

For this season, they are simple:

A top four finish in the league.
Win a trophy.
Reach at least the semi-finals of the Europa League.

These aren’t ambitions—they are expectations.

This is just the beginning, but foundations are everything. If we get this part right, if we build correctly from the start, then everything that follows becomes possible.

And that’s exactly what I intend to do.

Blog Update #16 – Arsenal – 2028/29 - 01

Getting Started – “A New Chapter in North London”

Signing with Arsenal

There are moments in a career that feel inevitable, as though every step you’ve taken has quietly been leading you toward them. Signing for Arsenal felt exactly like that.

The agreement had been in place for months, something I had carried with me silently while finishing what I started at Girona. Even as the season unfolded in Spain, with all its highs and heartbreaks, there was always that knowledge in the back of my mind—my next move was already written.

And yet, when the moment finally came, it didn’t feel any less significant.

Leaving Girona was not easy. In truth, it still doesn’t sit entirely comfortably with me. There is unfinished business there, no doubt about it. We built something special—something that deserved a league title to crown it. Walking away from that, even for an opportunity like this, carries a certain weight.

But this is football. And this is ambition.

Arsenal represents a different level entirely. The expectations, the resources, the global presence—it’s a club where the ceiling feels almost limitless. From a personal standpoint, the decision makes complete sense. My salary has quadrupled, yes, but more importantly, so has the scale of the challenge.

I knew this was the right move for my career.

On the 28th of May 2028, everything became official. It’s funny the things you hold onto in moments like that. For me, it was the pen.

My 1998 WHSmith Black Parker pen.

The same pen my father handed me all those years ago when I signed for West Ham’s academy. The same pen I used when I began this managerial journey at Girona. It’s more than just an object—it’s a thread that connects every chapter of my story.

And as I sat there, contract in front of me, I pulled it out once again.

Three years. £115k per week.

I signed my name on the dotted line, and just like that, a new chapter began.

History of Arsenal

To truly understand the magnitude of this job, you have to understand the club.

Arsenal Football Club was founded in 1886, originally formed by workers at the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich. From those early beginnings, the club grew into one of the most recognised and respected institutions in English football.

Their history is rich, layered with periods of dominance, moments of decline, and everything in between.

The most iconic era came under Arsène Wenger. His arrival in 1996 revolutionised not just Arsenal, but English football as a whole. His philosophy, his attention to detail, his commitment to attacking football—it all culminated in one of the greatest achievements the league has ever seen: the “Invincibles” season of 2003–04, where Arsenal went the entire league campaign unbeaten.

That team set a standard that still echoes through the club today.

Over the years, Arsenal have collected numerous honours—league titles, FA Cups, and European trophies—cementing their place among England’s elite. But it hasn’t always been smooth.

There have been periods where expectations have outweighed results. Years where the club hovered just below the very top, competitive but not quite dominant. And in modern football, that can quickly lead to instability.

Since 2025, that instability has been clear.

Mikel Arteta, who had been building something promising, was dismissed in January 2026. Vincent Kompany came in later that year, bringing fresh ideas and energy, but his tenure was short-lived, ending in December 2027.

Despite that, there have still been successes.

A 3rd-place Premier League finish in 2027 showed the squad’s potential. That same year, they lifted the Europa League—a major European honour. And most recently, they secured the FA Cup in 2028, a reminder that this club still knows how to win.

But the constant changes in leadership have left their mark.

What Arsenal need now is stability. Direction. Identity.

That’s where I come in.

Where They Are At Now

Looking at the current state of Arsenal, the word that comes to mind is “incomplete.”

The season just gone wasn’t a disaster—but it wasn’t good enough either.

6th place in the league.
 

A record of 20 wins, 7 draws, and 11 losses.
60 goals scored, 42 conceded.

On paper, it’s respectable. In reality, it highlights a team that has underperformed.

When I studied the league as a whole, the issue became clear almost immediately. Defensively, they are relatively solid. Not perfect—there’s work to be done—but solid enough to compete.

The real problem lies at the other end of the pitch.

For a squad with this level of attacking talent, 60 goals simply isn’t enough. There’s a disconnect somewhere—whether it’s tactical, psychological, or structural—and it’s something I intend to fix.

My teams score goals. That’s a non-negotiable.

The cup competitions told a mixed story.

An early exit in the Carabao Cup against Fulham is unacceptable for a club of this stature. There’s no way around that. Standards have to be higher.

But winning the FA Cup changes the narrative slightly. It brings positivity, belief, and crucially, it secures European football in the form of the Europa League next season.

That competition will be important—not just for silverware, but for building momentum.

Right now, Arsenal are a team with potential.

My job is to turn that potential into consistency.

Squad and The Key Players

When I first assessed the squad, my initial reaction was simple: this is a talented group.

But talent alone isn’t enough.

What stood out to me more than anything was a lack of intensity. A lack of urgency. Too often, players seemed content rather than driven. And that is something I will not accept.

Effort is the baseline.

I’ve made it clear to every single player—this is a fresh start. No reputations, no guarantees. Everyone will have the opportunity to earn their place, but they will have to work for it. And not just for this season—but for their future at the club.

There will be accountability.

There will be standards.

And there will be consequences.

Key Players

Bukayo Saka – Wide Forward (Right)
 

He is, without question, one of the most important players in this squad.

Consistency has been his hallmark—double-digit goal contributions for seven consecutive seasons speaks for itself. In my system, he will play a crucial role, not just offensively but defensively as well. He will be expected to track back, to support the full-back, to work tirelessly for the team.

But in return, I believe he can reach even greater heights.

He has the tools. Now he needs the structure.

Gabriel – Centre Back
 

Every successful team needs a leader at the back, and for me, Gabriel is that man.

My system places a heavy demand on defenders. With attacking freedom comes defensive responsibility. There will be moments where we are exposed, where decisions have to be made quickly and decisively.

I need Gabriel to be a general. Vocal. Commanding. Relentless.

And with his physical presence, he will also be a major threat from set pieces. That’s an area we will look to maximise.

Tactical Setup

I’m not here to reinvent myself.

The system that brought me success at Girona will be the foundation here.

Out of Possession – 4-4-1-1 DM

Structure is everything when we don’t have the ball.

Two compact banks of four, positioned close together, limiting space and forcing opponents into areas we control. Discipline, organisation, and communication will be key.

The striker’s role is demanding. He must be mobile, able to press across the front line, but also strong enough to hold the ball when we regain possession.

This is where games are won before we even touch the ball.

In Possession – 4-2-3-1 DM

When we attack, everything changes.

The system becomes fluid, dynamic.

The box-to-box playmaker is the heartbeat of the team. He must do everything—create, carry, defend, support. He is the link between defence and attack.

As we move forward, the shape evolves. The wingers tuck inside, effectively becoming additional forwards, while the full-backs push high to provide width.

At times, it will look like we are playing with three strikers.

This is how we create overloads. This is how we score goals.

Financial Situation

Financially, the club is stable—but not flexible.

There’s no transfer budget to speak of, and the wage structure is already stretched to its limit. That presents a challenge.

It means we have to be smart.

Every decision matters. Every contract, every potential signing—it all has to be calculated. There’s no room for waste.

This won’t be about spending our way to success.

It will be about maximising what we already have.

My Ambition at Arsenal

I’ve signed a three-year deal, and I intend to see it through.

This is not a stepping stone. This is a destination—at least for now.

I want to win here. Not just compete, not just improve—I want trophies. Major trophies. The kind that define eras and cement legacies.

There’s potential here to build something special. Something lasting.

And if everything aligns—if the project grows the way I believe it can—then who knows?

Maybe three years won’t be enough.

Maybe this becomes something more.

Blog Update #15 – Girona FC – 2027/28 - 05

End of Season Review – “So Close to History”

Overview and News

When I sit back and reflect on this season, it’s impossible not to feel a mix of pride and frustration. Pride, because what we’ve achieved together has been nothing short of remarkable. Frustration, because we came within touching distance of something truly historic—and just fell short.

From the very beginning, I believed this squad had something special. There was a togetherness, a quiet confidence in the dressing room that grew stronger with every passing week. We weren’t supposed to be here, not this quickly. Yet as the season unfolded, we didn’t just compete—we imposed ourselves. We became a team that others feared.

Personally, being named Spanish League Manager of the Year is an honour I don’t take lightly. It reflects not just my work, but the commitment of every single player, every member of staff, and everyone behind the scenes. Awards like that are never won alone.

However, the final stretch of the season tested us in ways I hadn’t fully anticipated. Injuries began to creep in at the worst possible time. Key players—those who had carried us through the majority of the campaign—started to drop off, either through fatigue or fitness issues. And that’s where the reality of our squad depth became impossible to ignore.

We fought, we adapted, we pushed through—but at that level, against the very best, even the smallest drop-off can make all the difference.

And in the end, it did.

Final Season Results

La Liga – A Title Lost on the Finest Margins

2nd Position,

38 played, 

31 won, 1 draw, 6 lost,
92 scored, 34 conceded,

94 points.

It’s hard to put into words just how tight this title race was. Level on points at the top, pushing each other every single week—it was relentless. In the end, it came down to the smallest of details: head-to-head results.

And that’s where the truth lies.

Barcelona edged it because, in those defining moments, they had just that little bit more quality, more experience, more composure. It’s a painful reality, but an honest one. Across the full season, we’ve proven we belong at this level—but to truly conquer it, we need more.

Right now, we are undoubtedly among the very best in Spain. But there’s still a gap between us and the absolute elite.

Our form in the final stretch summed us up perfectly: 5 wins, 1 draw, 1 defeat. Strong, consistent, resilient.

But seasons aren’t decided by good runs—they’re decided by moments.

And ours came against Alavés.

A 0–0 draw. At home. A game we dominated in every possible way—27 shots to their 1. It was one of those matches where everything clicks except the one thing that matters: the finish. Chance after chance came and went, frustration building with every missed opportunity.

Looking back now, that was the day the title slipped through our fingers.

Not the loss to Barcelona. Not the pressure of the run-in.

That single afternoon.

Domestic Cups – Competitive but Not Enough

Copa del Rey: 

Quarter Final Exit (Lost 2–1 AET vs Atletico Madrid)
 

Spanish Super Cup: 

Runners-Up (Lost on penalties vs Atletico Madrid)

Our cup runs were solid, but not spectacular.

In the Copa del Rey, we handled our early rounds professionally—dispatching Guadalajara and Leonesa with confidence and control. But when we came up against Atletico Madrid, the margins again proved decisive. Extra time, fine details, moments of quality—it could have gone either way, but it didn’t fall for us.

The Super Cup told a similar story. A tight, tense 0–0 draw that ultimately went to penalties. These are the games where mentality and experience matter most, and once again, we came up just short.

There’s no shame in losing to a side of that calibre—but it highlights exactly where we need to improve.

Champions League – A Statement Made

Quarter Final Exit – Lost 3–0 on aggregate vs Manchester City
 

League Phase: 7th Position – 8 played, 5 won, 1 draw, 2 lost, 19 scored, 6 conceded, 16 points.

If there’s one area where I feel pure pride, it’s our Champions League campaign.

In our debut season, we didn’t just participate—we competed. We showed resilience, tactical discipline, and moments of genuine brilliance. Finishing 7th in the league phase was a huge achievement, and it set the tone for everything that followed.

We went further than anyone expected. Further than many believed possible.

But once again, depth became the defining factor.

Against Manchester City, over two legs, the difference was clear. Not necessarily in our starting eleven—but in the options available when the game demanded change. At this level, the ability to rotate, to adapt mid-game, to bring on world-class quality—that’s what separates good teams from great ones.

Still, I couldn’t be prouder of what we achieved on the European stage. It was a glimpse of what this club can become.

Performance Spotlight

This season has been defined by individuals stepping up, exceeding expectations, and in some cases, redefining their roles entirely.

Player of the Year – Antonino Gallo

36 starts, 10 substitute appearances
2 goals, 6 assists,

7.26 average rating

What more can be said about him?

Signed on a free, and now back-to-back Player of the Year winner. His consistency has been extraordinary. Defensively solid, tactically intelligent, and always available when we needed him. He’s not just a player—he’s a foundation.

Young Player of the Year – Jonathan De Irastorza

12 starts, 0 substitute appearances
0 goals, 4 assists,

7.26 average rating.

A unique season for him.

Due to registration rules, his opportunities were limited—but in the Champions League, he announced himself. To perform at that level, against elite opposition, and produce those numbers—it speaks volumes.

He is the future.

Top Goal Contributor – Alvyn Sanches

22 starts, 19 substitute appearances,
25 goals, 6 assists,

7.20 average rating.

An impact player in the truest sense.

Not always starting, but always delivering. Goals at crucial moments, energy when we needed it most—his contribution cannot be overstated.

Manager’s Special Mention – Arnau Martinez

45 starts, 6 substitute appearances,
2 goals, 9 assists,

7.16 average rating.

Reliable. Consistent. Outstanding.

Week in, week out, he delivered performances of the highest level. A player every manager dreams of having.

Departures – Not Meeting the Standard

Azzedine Ounahi

Fran Beltrán

At this level, difficult decisions have to be made. Both players had opportunities, but ultimately didn’t deliver the consistency required.

Performance Concerns

Bryan Gil (1 game below 6.00)

Robin Risser (1 game at 6.00)

Yaser Asprilla (1 game below 6.00)

Standards are everything. And while these are isolated moments, they are reminders of the level we must maintain.

Financial Outlook

The club finds itself in a strong and stable position:

Club Balance: £29.3m

Transfer Budget: £30m

Wage Budget: £1.19m

There is a solid foundation here. The resources are available to strengthen, to build depth, and to push that final step forward.

Meeting Expectations

Board Expectations – All Achieved

La Liga: Top 6 ✅ (Finished 2nd)

Copa del Rey: Quarter Final ✅

Super Cup: No expectations ✅

Champions League: Playoff stages ✅ (Reached Quarter Finals)

My Expectations – Largely Delivered

Top 4 Finish ✅ (Finished 2nd)

Cup Semi Final ❌ (Quarter Final exit, acceptable given opposition)

Champions League Last 16 ✅ (Exceeded – Quarter Final)

Leave for a bigger job ✅

And that final point… has already been decided.

Fan Reaction

The supporters have been incredible throughout this journey. Their belief, their energy, their patience—it never went unnoticed.

Some of the voices I’ve heard in recent weeks:

“We didn’t just compete—we belonged. That’s all we ever wanted.”

“Manager of the Year says it all. He’s transformed this club.”

“Of course it hurts to come second, but look at how far we’ve come.”

“Sad to see him go… but he’s earned that move. He’ll always be one of us.”

There’s pride. There’s gratitude. And yes, there’s a hint of sadness.

My Future

My next chapter is already written.

North London awaits. Arsenal.

It’s a move that represents progression, ambition, and the next step in my career. But that doesn’t make leaving any easier.

This club gave me my first real opportunity. It allowed me to grow, to learn, to make mistakes and to succeed. Together, we built something special—something that will last long after I’m gone.

I always said this was just the beginning of my journey. And now, that journey continues elsewhere.

I wish I could have delivered the league title. We were so close. But perhaps that’s what will drive me forward—the knowledge that there’s still more to achieve, more to prove.

I leave better than I arrived.

And I’ll never forget where it all began.

Blog Update #14 – Girona FC – 2027/28 - 04

Season Run-In – “Seven Games From History”

Overview and News

This is it. The point in the season where everything tightens.

Every pass feels heavier, every mistake carries more consequence, and every result ripples far beyond the ninety minutes. You can sense it in training, in the dressing room, even in the way the fans greet the players—there’s tension, but also belief. A quiet understanding that we are standing on the edge of something historic.

Personally, I find myself in a strange position.

With my move to Arsenal now confirmed for the end of the season, part of my focus has naturally shifted toward what lies ahead. I’ve been keeping a close eye on their progress, trying to understand the squad I’ll inherit and the challenges waiting for me. At the moment, they sit 6th in the Premier League, but there’s momentum building. A push to 5th looks very realistic, and with the way European qualification is shaping up, that could be enough for Champions League football next season.

That matters.

Not just for the club, but for the project I’m walking into.

There’s also been constant noise surrounding Bukayo Saka and a potential move to PSG. It’s the kind of rumour that refuses to go away. From my perspective, I’m hoping it’s nothing more than speculation. Players like him aren’t just important—they’re foundational. If I’m going to build something at Arsenal, he’s exactly the type of player I want at the core of it.

But for now, that’s all in the background.

Because what’s happening here, right now, demands my full attention.

This Girona side—this group of players—deserves everything. And I’m determined to give them my absolute focus in these final weeks. There will be time to think about the future later.

For now, it’s about finishing what we started.

Where We Stand

La Liga
 

1st Position, 

31 played, 26 won, 0 draw, 5 lost, 

83 scored, 31 conceded, 

78 points.

If I’m being completely honest, this period has tested us more than any other part of the season.

We’ve played nine games since the last update, winning six and losing three. On paper, that still looks strong—but context is everything. At this stage of the season, in a title race, those three defeats carry enormous weight.

We’ve gone from feeling in complete control to suddenly looking over our shoulders.

Real Madrid are now just four points behind us, applying relentless pressure. Barcelona, nine points back, still have two games in hand—meaning the gap could close quickly if we slip again.

This is the reality of competing at the very top.

You don’t get room for error.

The most painful moment in this run came against Atlético Madrid. A game we controlled for long periods, dictating the tempo, creating chances, and looking comfortable. And yet, somehow, we lost 3-2. It’s becoming a frustrating pattern—they’ve turned into our bogey team, finding ways to hurt us even when we’re at our best.

That defeat lingered.

You could feel it in the next couple of games—the hesitation, the slight drop in confidence. And in this league, even the smallest dip can be punished.

Which is why the win against Real Betis meant so much.

A 3-0 victory at home, not just in the result but in the performance. It stopped a two-game losing streak and, more importantly, reset the mentality. The players looked like themselves again—sharp, aggressive, composed.

Goals from Martín Solís and Circati sealed it, but it was the collective performance that stood out. It felt like a statement: we’re still here, still fighting, still in control of our destiny.

Seven games to go.

Seventy-eight points on the board.

The best season in the club’s history is already guaranteed—but now, there’s a chance to make it unforgettable.

Cup Competitions

Copa del Rey: 

Quarter-final exit (lost 2-1 after extra time vs Atlético Madrid)

Another tough one to take. Atlético again.

It was a tight, hard-fought match that could have gone either way. We matched them in every department, but once again, they found the decisive moment. Losing in extra time always feels cruel—you’re so close, yet so far.

Still, reaching the quarter-finals is no small achievement, and the players gave everything.

Spanish Super Cup: 

Eliminated (lost on penalties vs Atlético Madrid)

It’s almost becoming a theme.

Another fine-margin defeat, another missed opportunity. Penalties are always a lottery, but that doesn’t make it any easier to accept.

Champions League

League Phase: 7th Position, 8 played, 5 won, 1 draw, 2 lost, 19 scored, 6 conceded, 16 points.

Quarter-finalists

This competition has given us some of the most memorable moments of the season.

To reach the quarter-finals is an incredible achievement in itself—but the way we got here makes it even more special.

Facing PSG in the last 16 was always going to be a monumental challenge. Two legs, two intense battles, and a tie that swung back and forth until the very end.

We came out on top 6-5 on aggregate.

Every single player left everything on the pitch. There were moments where we looked beaten, moments where the pressure felt overwhelming—but we kept going. That “100% or nothing” mentality has never been more evident.

Now, we face Manchester City.

Arguably the best team in the world.

A different level entirely.

But at this stage, there’s no fear—only excitement.

Home Grown Graduate

Rai Ferrer
 

8 starts, 4 substitute appearances, 3 goals, 1 assist, 6.77 average rating.

This season has been about opportunity.

Originally, Guillem Badia was the player I had earmarked as our breakthrough academy graduate. But football rarely follows the script you write at the start of the year.

Injuries, transfers—particularly the sale of Vladyslav Vanat, which I’m still frustrated about—forced a change in direction.

And that’s where Ferrer came in.

Thrown into the first team at just 17 years old, in the middle of a title race, is no easy task. Especially when you’re stepping in during a period where Ryan Naderi has been sidelined with injury.

But to his credit, he hasn’t looked out of place.

Technically, he’s excellent. Comfortable on the ball, confident in tight spaces, and a natural dribbler. There’s a fearlessness to his game that you can’t teach—it comes from belief.

Of course, there are areas to improve. He can be a little rushed in front of goal, sometimes snatching at chances instead of staying composed. But that’s part of his development.

He’s 17.

And already contributing.

That alone tells you everything you need to know about his potential.

Performance Spotlight

Best Performing Players

Antonino Gallo
 

31 starts, 10 substitute appearances, 2 goals, 6 assists, 7.28 average rating, 6 Man of the Match awards

Consistency.

That’s the word that defines Gallo’s season. Week in, week out, he delivers. Whether it’s defensively—positioning, reading the game—or going forward with intelligent runs and quality deliveries, he sets the standard.

He understands the system perfectly. Knows when to push, when to hold, when to press. It’s no surprise he’s picked up multiple Man of the Match awards—he’s been instrumental.

Alvyn Sanches
 

18 starts, 14 substitute appearances, 22 goals, 4 assists, 7.26 average rating, 5 Man of the Match awards

What a season.

To put up those numbers, especially without being a guaranteed starter, is remarkable. He’s been clinical, decisive, and relentless in front of goal.

Every time he steps onto the pitch, he makes an impact. Whether starting or coming off the bench, he finds a way to influence the game.

He’s not just been good—he’s been game-changing.

Worst Performing Players

Azzedine Ounahi
 

8 starts, 20 substitute appearances, 3 goals, 0 assists, 6.81 average rating

It’s been a difficult season for him. Opportunities have come in bursts, but consistency hasn’t followed. At times, he’s struggled to impose himself on games, and in a team performing at this level, that becomes more noticeable.

Alejandro Francés
 

0 starts, 22 substitute appearances, 0 goals, 0 assists, 6.82 average rating

This feels harsh, given his limited minutes, but standards are high. Even from the bench, I expect players to make an impact—to show they belong.

Right now, based on performances, he’s slipped down the pecking order.

Low Match Ratings (Under 6.00)

Bryan Gil – 1x (5.80)

Robin Risser – 1x (6.00)

Not a major concern, but something to monitor.

Fan Reaction

The connection between the team and the supporters has grown stronger with every passing week.

There’s belief now—not just hope, but genuine belief that this could be the season everything changes. You can feel it in the stadium, hear it in the chants, see it in the way they celebrate every tackle, every goal, every win.

Some of the reactions I’ve seen and heard recently capture that perfectly:

“Seven games. That’s all that stands between us and history. I’ve never believed like this before.”

“I don’t care what happens from here—this team has already given us the best season of our lives.”

“We’re not dreaming anymore… we’re expecting. That’s the difference this manager has made.”

“Win or lose the title, this team has changed this club forever. But now… why not go all the way?”

Seven games left.

Seven chances to make history.

And everything still to play for.

Blog Update #13 – Girona FC – 2027/28 - 03

Mid-Season Update – “A Season Too Special to Leave Behind”

Overview and News

We’ve reached that point in the season where everything starts to feel real.

Early optimism has now turned into genuine expectation. What we’re doing is no longer a surprise to anyone—not the media, not the fans, and certainly not the opposition. Every game now comes with added pressure, added scrutiny, and a growing sense that this could be something far bigger than just a good season.

Off the pitch, however, things have been far from smooth.

I’ve been very open about my ambitions, and throughout the season I’ve kept one eye on potential opportunities. The first real offer came in November when Tottenham approached me. Sitting 20th in the Premier League at the time, it was a club in crisis—but also one with undeniable quality and resources. Under normal circumstances, that might have been a tempting challenge. But when I really thought about it, I couldn’t justify the move. Girona, right now, feels just as competitive—if not more so—and walking away mid-season didn’t sit right with me.

Then came the Arsenal opportunity.

That one was different.

A club of that stature doesn’t come calling often, and I knew immediately it was a chance to take the next step in my career. The discussions were professional, respectful, and honest from both sides. I made it clear that I didn’t want to abandon what we’re building here halfway through the season. This group of players deserves more than that.

After some negotiation, we reached an agreement. A three-year deal, £115k per week, and I will take over at the end of the season.

It should have been a proud moment. And in many ways, it is.

But the aftermath has been frustrating.

The club’s response has been… disappointing, to say the least. Not only did they offer me a new contract significantly lower than their previous one—which, if I’m honest, felt like a lack of appreciation—but once my departure was confirmed, they stripped away my control over off-the-field decisions.

That includes transfers.

Since then, decisions have been made without my input—players sold, others loaned out—disrupting a squad that was carefully built for balance and depth. It’s left me angry, and there have been moments where I’ve genuinely considered walking away.

But I won’t.

Not now.

This season is too important. This team is too special.

And I owe it to the players—and myself—to see it through.

Where We Stand

La Liga
 

1st Position,

22 played, 20 won, 0 draw, 2 lost,

69 scored, 24 conceded,

60 points.

If the early part of the season was impressive, this stretch has been relentless.

Nine wins from ten games since the last update tells its own story. We’ve not just maintained our level—we’ve elevated it. There’s a confidence in the way we play now, a belief that no matter the opponent, we can impose ourselves and come out on top.

The only setback came away at Barcelona—a narrow 1-0 defeat in a game that could have gone either way. It was one of those matches decided by fine margins. A single moment, a single lapse, and at this level, that’s often enough.

But what stood out was our performance. We didn’t look out of place. We competed, controlled large periods, and showed that we belong at the very top.

The standout result, however, was the 5-2 win away at Sevilla.

That game perfectly summed up who we are right now. Aggressive, fearless, and clinical. Even when we made mistakes and conceded, there was no panic. We simply kept pushing, kept attacking, and ultimately overwhelmed them. It was brutal, as I described it at the time—but in the best possible way.

Sixty points from twenty-two games. It’s the kind of form that wins titles.

But I’m not getting ahead of myself.

Cup Competitions

Copa del Rey: 

Quarter-finals (vs Atlético Madrid)
 

We’ve navigated the early rounds professionally, beating Guadalajara and Leonesa without too much trouble. Now, the real test begins. Atlético again—a team that always seems to find ways to make life difficult for us.

Spanish Super Cup: 

Eliminated (lost on penalties to Atlético Madrid)
 

A frustrating one. A 0-0 draw where neither side gave much away, decided by penalties. Fine margins again. You win some, you lose some—but it still stings.

Champions League
 

League Phase: 7th Position, 8 played, 5 won, 1 draw, 2 lost, 19 scored, 6 conceded, 16 points.

Finishing as the highest-placed Spanish side in the league phase is something I’m incredibly proud of.

It speaks volumes about the progress we’ve made as a team. Competing—and succeeding—at this level isn’t easy, but the players have embraced it.

There have been several strong performances, but one result stands above all others.

The 10-2 win over PSV.

Even now, writing it down doesn’t quite feel real. Everything clicked that night—every pass, every run, every finish. It was one of those rare games where the team operates at complete perfection, and the opponent simply has no answer.

Moments like that don’t come often.

And when they do, you have to appreciate them.

Medical Room

Injuries were a real concern earlier in the season, and for a while, it felt like we couldn’t catch a break.

Key players dropping out one after another could have derailed everything. But instead of collapsing, the squad adapted. Players stepped into unfamiliar roles, young talents were given opportunities, and the collective effort carried us through.

Still, the impact of those absences can’t be ignored:

Alvyn Sanches – out for 3 months

Yaser Asprilla – out for 2 months

Newertton – out for 1 month

Cédric Zesiger – out for 1 month

Losing players of that quality, especially in key areas, tests any squad. But if anything, it’s reinforced my belief in the depth and resilience we have.

I’ve always said injuries create opportunities.

And this season, that’s proven to be true.

Transfer Window Review

Going into January, my intention was clear: no business.

The squad was balanced, performing well, and didn’t need disruption. Stability was the priority.

Unfortunately, that decision was taken out of my hands.

With my departure already agreed, the board decided to act independently—and the results have been far from ideal.

Transfers In:
 

None.

Transfers Out:

Vladyslav Vanat → Burnley (£24m)

This one frustrated me the most. Selling our second striker in the middle of a title challenge makes no sense. He was more than just a backup—he was a vital option, someone who could step in without a drop in quality.

Now, we’re exposed.

One injury, and we’re in trouble.

Joel Roca → Almería (Loan)

This decision nearly pushed me over the edge.

Roca was the definition of a perfect squad player. Reliable, versatile, and always ready when called upon. He had already started half our games this season and consistently delivered solid performances.

Losing him, especially without replacement, has disrupted the balance we worked so hard to build.

These are the moments that test your patience as a manager.

But again, I have to focus on what I can control.

Dressing Room Dynamics

Despite everything happening behind the scenes, the dressing room remains largely positive.

That, more than anything, is a testament to the players.

There are, of course, a few issues bubbling under the surface:

Fran Beltrán – unhappy with lack of playing time
 

He’s been on the fringes, and naturally, he wants more involvement. It’s something I’ll need to manage carefully.

Yaser Asprilla – wants to move to a stronger team
 

I understand his ambition. Players at his level always want to test themselves at the very top. All I’ve asked is for six more months—one final push together.

Alvyn Sanches – wants a new contract
 

This is out of my hands now, which makes it even more frustrating. He deserves recognition, but I can’t offer it.

Even with these challenges, the overall atmosphere is strong. There’s unity, focus, and a shared belief in what we can achieve.

Are We On Target?

In short—yes.

Every objective we set at the start of the season is not only within reach but firmly under control.

Top of the league.
 

Quarter-finals of the Copa del Rey.
 

Strong position in the Champions League.

And beyond that, there’s something more.

A real chance at silverware.

As I sit here reflecting on everything—results, performances, challenges, frustrations—I can’t help but feel that this season is building towards something special.

Leaving at the end of the year was always part of the plan.

But now, it’s about how I leave.

Not quietly.
 

Not with regrets.

But with something tangible.

A legacy.

Blog Update #12 – Girona FC – 2027/28 - 02

Early Season – “No Fluke, No Fear: Setting the Pace”

Overview and News

Twelve games into the season, and I can feel it—something has shifted.

There’s a different energy around the place this year. Last season, everything we did carried an element of surprise. We were the team nobody quite believed in until it was too late. But now, that doubt is gone. We walk into games expected to win, expected to dominate, expected to control the narrative from the first whistle to the last. And so far, the players have embraced that pressure rather than shying away from it.

From the very first training session in pre-season, there was a noticeable edge. The intensity was higher, the focus sharper. It was as if the squad collectively decided that last year wasn’t going to be the peak—it was just the foundation. Standards have risen across the board, not just in matches but in the small, unseen details: recovery sessions, tactical meetings, even the tempo of simple drills.

What has impressed me most is the mentality. After the early setback against Real Madrid—a game that could have knocked our confidence—we didn’t panic. There was no overreaction, no drastic changes. Just a quiet determination to respond. And since then, the response has been nothing short of exceptional.

Winning becomes a habit, but so does belief. And right now, this squad is full of it.

Where We Stand

La Liga
 

1st Position, 

12 played, 11 won, 0 draw, 1 lost, 

38 scored, 13 conceded, 

33 points.

If someone had told me at the start of the season that we’d be sitting top of the table after twelve games, I might have smiled politely—but internally, I would have questioned it. Not because I didn’t believe in the players, but because sustaining this level in such a competitive league is incredibly difficult.

And yet, here we are.

It hasn’t just been good—it’s been relentless. Eleven wins from twelve, thirty-eight goals scored, and a style of football that feels both controlled and explosive at the same time. We’re not scraping results; we’re earning them, often convincingly.

Being two points clear of Real Madrid is satisfying, but it doesn’t mean much this early. They’re always there, always waiting. Barcelona, despite sitting further back, remain a threat—especially with a game in hand. At this level, the margins are thin, and momentum can shift quickly.

The only blemish on our record came early—a 3-0 defeat to Real Madrid in just the second game of the season. At the time, it felt like a harsh reminder of the gap we still needed to close. Looking back now, it may have been exactly what we needed. It sharpened us, refocused us, and since that day, we haven’t looked back.

Ten consecutive wins followed.

Among those victories, one stands above the rest—the 2-0 win at home against Atlético Madrid. For whatever reason, they had become something of a psychological hurdle for us. Tight games, frustrating losses, moments where we just couldn’t impose ourselves. But this time, it was different.

We controlled possession, dictated the tempo, and most importantly, showed patience. The goals came as a result of that control, not desperation. It wasn’t just a win—it felt like a statement. A sign that we are evolving, not just improving.

Early Cup Competitions

Copa del Rey: Not yet entered

Spanish Super Cup: Not yet entered

There’s a strange calm before these competitions begin—a sense that the real chaos is still to come. For now, all focus has been on the league and Europe, but I know how quickly things can pile up once the cups start. Squad depth will be tested, and rotation will become crucial.

Champions League
 

League Phase: 8th Position, 3 played, 2 won, 0 draw, 1 lost, 6 scored, 2 conceded, 6 points.

Our return to Europe’s biggest stage has been… encouraging.

Two wins from three is a solid start, and sitting inside the automatic qualification spots gives us something to build on. Victories against Dinamo and Ferencváros were professional, controlled performances—exactly what you need in this competition. No complacency, no unnecessary risks, just efficient football.

The loss to Bayern Munich, however, was a different experience altogether.

On paper, a 2-1 defeat looks competitive. And in moments, it was. But the reality is they operated at a level just above us. Their movement, their decision-making, the speed at which they transitioned—it was a reminder of where we still need to get to. Not discouraging, but certainly humbling.

Still, we’re in a good position. Qualification is firmly in our hands.

Tactics Working?

At this stage, it’s hard to argue with the results.

Tactical Success

The most obvious strength is our attacking output. We are currently the leading goalscorers in the league, and it doesn’t feel forced—it feels natural. The players are expressing themselves, taking risks, and trusting the system.

There’s a fluidity to our play that’s difficult to defend against. The rotations in the final third, the movement between the lines, the willingness to overload areas—it all contributes to a style that keeps opponents guessing.

Set pieces have also become a major weapon. Eleven goals already, nearly one per game, is no coincidence. We’ve put a lot of work into this area, analysing opposition weaknesses and refining our routines. It’s paying off in a big way.

Perhaps most pleasing is the spread of goals. Thirteen different scorers highlight exactly what I want from this team—a shared responsibility. We’re not reliant on one individual. Threats come from everywhere, and that makes us unpredictable.

Tactical Negatives

If there’s one area that still concerns me, it’s the defence.

Thirteen goals conceded in twelve games isn’t disastrous, but it’s higher than I’d like—especially considering the standards we set last season. That said, context matters. We’ve introduced a new goalkeeper and a new centre back, and those relationships take time to develop.

Defensive cohesion isn’t built overnight. It’s about communication, trust, and understanding each other’s movements instinctively. We’re not quite there yet, but I can see it improving with every game.

It’s not a flaw—just a work in progress.

Home Grown Graduate

Guillem Badia
 

1 start, 0 substitute appearances, 0 goals, 0 assists, 6.80 average rating.

It’s still very early days for Badia.

One appearance isn’t enough to draw any real conclusions, but what I saw was encouraging. He didn’t look out of place, which for a young player stepping into this level is often the biggest hurdle. He kept things simple, showed good positional awareness, and didn’t shy away from responsibility.

In training, he’s been excellent. There’s a determination about him—a willingness to learn and improve that stands out. He asks questions, listens carefully, and applies feedback quickly.

This will be a slow process. I don’t want to rush him.

But I trust him.

And over the course of the season, his opportunities will come.

Performance Spotlight

Best Performing Players

Antonino Gallo
 

11 starts, 4 substitute appearances, 2 goals, 3 assists, 7.33 average rating.

Consistency. That’s the word that defines Gallo.

After being named Player of the Year last season, there was always going to be pressure to maintain that level. So far, he’s done exactly that. His positioning, his decision-making, his ability to influence both phases of play—it’s all been exceptional.

He rarely makes the wrong choice, and that reliability is invaluable.

Ryan Naderi
 

14 starts, 12 goals, 1 assist, 7.28 average rating.

This is the story I didn’t see coming.

Last season, there were moments where I questioned whether he had a long-term future here. He showed flashes, but not enough consistency. Still, I chose to stick with him—and right now, he’s rewarding that faith in the best possible way.

Twelve goals already tells its own story. He’s sharper, more confident, and more clinical. The chances that he might have hesitated over last year, he’s now taking instinctively.

Sometimes, patience pays off.

Worst Performing Player

Jhon Solís
 

13 starts, 2 substitute appearances, 0 goals, 3 assists, 6.89 average rating.

This is a surprising one.

Not because he’s been poor—far from it—but because of the level we’re operating at. When the team is performing this well, even solid performances can look underwhelming by comparison.

Solís still plays an important role in our structure. His work off the ball, his positioning, and his ability to break up play often go unnoticed. But football at this level is about margins, and he knows he can offer more.

I have no doubts he’ll respond.

Fan Reaction

The connection between the team and the supporters is growing stronger with every game. There’s a genuine excitement around what we’re building, and you can feel it not just inside the stadium, but everywhere—social media, streets, conversations.

A few reactions that have stood out:

“This isn’t luck anymore—this is a proper team. You can see the patterns, the confidence, everything.”

“Top of the league and playing this kind of football? I haven’t enjoyed watching us this much in years.”

“Minsu Kim is unreal—every time he gets the ball, something happens. He’s pure entertainment.”

“We’re not just winning, we’re controlling games. That’s what makes me believe this can last.”

There’s belief now. Real belief.

And that changes everything.

Twelve games down, and the message is clear.

We’re not here to make up the numbers.

We’re here to compete.

Blog Update #11 – Girona FC – 2027/28 - 01

Season Kick-Off – “Second Act: Proving It Was No Fluke”

Overview and News

The summer has come and gone, and with it a period of reflection, uncertainty, and ultimately, clarity.

If I’m being completely honest, I expected to be writing this from somewhere else. After everything we achieved last season—finishing 3rd, winning a European trophy, and establishing ourselves as one of the most exciting teams in Spain—I thought the next step would come naturally. I kept a close eye on the market, waiting for the right opportunity to present itself, but it never quite materialised.

There were whispers, of course. There always are after a successful season. The situations at Manchester United and Juventus caught my attention, both clubs in uncertain positions, both potentially looking for a reset. Even without Champions League football, they represent a different level—a different ceiling entirely. But interest never turned into opportunity, and in the end, I made the decision to stay.

For now.

Because while I am committed to this project, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t still looking ahead. If something significant comes up, I will have a decision to make. That’s just the reality of football at this level.

Closer to home, one of the more interesting decisions I made this summer involved Fran Beltrán. Last season, he was very much on the chopping block. Statistically, he was our weakest performer, and in most cases, that would have been enough to move him on. But when I looked deeper—really analysed his contributions—a 6.89 average rating isn’t disastrous. It’s actually respectable in a squad competing on multiple fronts.

So, I’ve given him another chance.

But make no mistake—he’s on notice. This season, there are no excuses. He either steps up, or he moves on.

That’s the standard now.

Board Expectations

The expectations have shifted, and rightly so.

La Liga: Finish in the Top 6

Copa del Rey: Reach the Quarter Finals

Spanish Super Cup: No expectations

Champions League: Reach the Playoff Stages

Last season, we were the surprise package. This year, we’re the hunted.

Finishing in the top six is now the baseline, not the ambition. That alone tells you how far we’ve come in such a short space of time. The Champions League expectation is also an interesting one—just reaching the playoff stages might seem modest on paper, but stepping into that competition is a completely different challenge.

There are no easy games. No room for complacency.

And that’s exactly how I want it.

Transfer Window Review

This was a strange transfer window for me.

Usually, I like to be proactive—identify weaknesses early, get deals done quickly, and give the squad as much time as possible to gel before the season starts. But this year was different. After the success of last season, I found myself questioning whether we needed to change anything at all.

And that hesitation cost me.

It wasn’t until circumstances forced my hand—two retirements and one player pushing for a move—that we finally acted in the market. By then, it was already August, and that lack of early planning led to a mistake that could have been avoided.

Still, we made moves.

Transfers In

Alessandro Circati – £15.5m (Parma)
 

A young, intelligent centre back with strong defensive fundamentals. His aerial ability and anticipation make him a natural fit for our system. For now, he comes in as third choice, but I’ve learned not to underestimate how quickly roles can change over a long season. With 27 international caps already, he brings experience beyond his years.

Robin Risser – £20m (RC Lens)
 

This is a signing that excites me.

Risser comes in as our new number one, and it’s not often you get the chance to upgrade in such a crucial position. His reflexes, composure in one-on-one situations, and ability to organise the defence should elevate us to another level. Krapyvtsov was excellent last season, but this is about progression—and Risser represents that.

Jonathan De Irastorza – £20m (Independiente)
 

This one hurts.

Not because of the player—he looks outstanding—but because of the situation. Due to non-EU registration rules, we simply cannot include him in the squad right now. It’s an administrative error, and it falls on me. At this level, those mistakes are costly.

I brought him in to compete immediately, to push for a starting role. Instead, he’s watching from the sidelines.

It’s a lesson learned the hard way.

Transfers Out

Antal Yaakobishvili – £4.3m (Parma)

A straightforward deal. He had a release clause, wanted to leave, and wasn’t a regular starter. Sometimes these situations resolve themselves.

Offers Rejected

This was perhaps the most telling part of our window—clubs are circling now.

Minsu Kim – £14m (Reims): A valuable squad player who offers flexibility across the front line. I’ve agreed to let him go if a £17m offer comes in, but until then, he stays.

Azzedine Ounahi – £21m (Porto): An easy decision. His experience and reliability are crucial, especially in a squad competing on multiple fronts.

Vladyslav Vanat – £22m (Wolves): This was tougher. He wants more minutes, and I understand that. But with only two recognised strikers, letting him go would have been irresponsible.

These decisions aren’t always popular, but they’re necessary.

Tactical Setup

Out of Possession: 4-4-1-1 DM

When we lose the ball, everything is about structure and discipline. Two compact banks of four, tight distances between players, and minimal space for the opposition to exploit. The striker becomes the first line of defence, pressing intelligently and forcing mistakes.

This system worked incredibly well last season, and there’s no reason to move away from it.

In Possession: 4-2-3-1 DM

With the ball, we transform.

The wingbacks push high, providing width and stretching the pitch, while the wingers drift inside, effectively creating a front three. The attacking midfielder becomes the focal point—linking play, creating chances, and contributing goals.

At times, it feels like we’re playing with three strikers, and that unpredictability is what makes us dangerous.

Squad and The Key Players

This squad is stronger now—deeper, more competitive, and more experienced.

Goalkeepers
 

Risser takes the number one spot, with Krapyvtsov providing strong backup. It’s healthy competition, and it keeps standards high.

Defence
 

Omobamidele and Zesiger have formed a solid partnership, one built on understanding and complementary strengths. Martínez and Gallo continue as our first-choice wingbacks, though there’s potential for competition to emerge as the season progresses.

Midfield
 

The double pivot remains central to everything we do. Solís is almost undroppable, but alongside him, there’s genuine competition. That’s exactly what I want—no complacency, no guaranteed spots.

Attack
 

This is where we’re truly blessed.

Options everywhere. Pace, creativity, goals. And this season, I’m not locking anyone into a role. Selection will be based purely on form and performance.

Earn your place, or lose it.

Key Players

Yaser Asprilla
 

Our creative heartbeat. His numbers last season were incredible, and we need more of the same. Goals, assists, moments of magic—he provides all of it.

Antonino Gallo
 

Last season’s Player of the Year. Reliable, intelligent, and consistent. His decision-making—when to go forward, when to hold—is crucial, especially with the added demands of Champions League football.

Home Grown Graduate

Guillem Badia

Age: 20

Position: Left Back

This wasn’t part of the plan.

Badia has been thrown into the first-team picture earlier than expected due to my mistake in the transfer market. Ideally, he would have had another year to develop, to refine his game away from the spotlight.

But football doesn’t always follow the plan.

What I will say is this: if you’re in my squad, you’re not there to make up the numbers. You’re there to contribute. The wingback role in our system is demanding—it requires energy, intelligence, and bravery.

He will get chances.

What he does with them is up to him.

Personal Target for the Year

Top 4 in the league

Reach a cup semi-final

Champions League Last 16

Secure a move to a bigger club

I’ve set the bar high again, and that’s intentional.

Last season proved what this group is capable of. Now it’s about consistency—about proving that it wasn’t a one-off, that we belong at this level.

And personally, I know what I want.

I want to keep progressing. I want to test myself at the very top. I want to win the biggest trophies in football.

If that opportunity comes, I’ll be ready.

But until then, there’s work to do here.

And as always—it’s 100% or nothing.

Blog Update #10 – Girona FC – 2026/27 - 05

End of Season Review – “From Survival to Silverware”

Overview and News

When I sit down and reflect on this season, it almost feels surreal. Football has a way of moving quickly, of not allowing you the time to truly take in what you’re achieving—but now, with everything concluded, I can finally look back and appreciate just how special this year has been.

Twelve months ago, this club was in a completely different place. We were looking over our shoulders, fighting to stay afloat, unsure of what the future held. Now, we stand as one of the strongest sides in the country and a European trophy winner. That transformation didn’t happen by accident—it came from belief, from hard work, and from every single player buying into what we set out to build.

There were also some remarkable narratives unfolding around us this season. Real Madrid somehow managed to go the entire league campaign unbeaten… and still only finished second. That alone tells you everything about the level at the very top this year. Barcelona were relentless, setting a standard that demanded near perfection just to keep pace.

On a personal level, I was honoured to be named Spanish League Manager of the Year. Individual awards are never something I chase, but they do mean something because they reflect the collective effort of everyone involved. It’s recognition not just of my work, but of the players, the staff, and the culture we’ve created here.

If I’m being honest, though, the award doesn’t define the season.

What defines it is the journey—and what we’ve built along the way.

Final Season Results

La Liga:
 

3rd Position, 

38 played, 26 won, 7 draw, 5 lost,

76 scored, 29 conceded. 

85 points.

It’s difficult to put into words just how proud I am of this league campaign.

Eighty-five points. In most seasons, that tally puts you right in the title conversation—sometimes even wins it. Yet here, it earns us third place. That says everything about the level we were competing against, but it also highlights just how high we pushed ourselves.

From a footballing perspective, this team has evolved massively. We’ve shown we can adapt—playing technical, controlled football when needed, but also rolling up our sleeves and grinding out results through sheer determination. There’s a balance now that wasn’t there before.

To finish as the third-highest scorers in the league is a testament to our attacking quality, but what pleases me most is our defensive record. Second best in the league, only behind Barcelona. Considering where we were defensively when I first arrived, that improvement is monumental.

We’ve gone from vulnerable to reliable, from reactive to proactive.

And that’s been the foundation of everything.

Copa del Rey:
 

Runner-up – Lost 2-1 after extra time against Barcelona.

Finals are cruel.

There’s no other way to describe it. To come so close, to push one of the best teams in the world all the way to extra time, and then fall just short—it’s a difficult feeling to process. The game itself was incredibly even. There were moments where we looked the stronger side, moments where we thought we might just snatch it.

But at this level, it often comes down to the smallest details. One lapse, one missed chance, one moment of quality—and that’s exactly what decided it.

Losing in extra time makes it sting even more. You’ve already given everything, stretched yourself to the absolute limit, and then you’re asked for just a little bit more. Unfortunately, on this occasion, Barcelona found that extra edge.

That said, I couldn’t be prouder of the players. We didn’t just make up the numbers—we competed, we believed, and we proved we belonged on that stage.

Europa Conference League:
 

Winners

League Phase – 2nd Position, 6 played, 6 won, 0 draw, 0 lost, 17 scored, 5 conceded. 18 points.

This is the moment that defines the season.

Winning a European trophy is always special—but doing it with this club, delivering the first major trophy in its history, makes it unforgettable. It’s something that will live with the fans forever, and I’m proud to have played a part in that.

The final against SK Rapid was everything we hoped for and more. A 4-1 victory that reflected our dominance throughout the game. We controlled possession, created chances, and executed our plan perfectly. It was a performance worthy of the occasion.

I said earlier in the competition that if we managed to get past Manchester United, we would go on to win it. That belief wasn’t arrogance—it was confidence in the group, in the way we were playing, and in the mentality we had built.

And the players delivered.

Every single one of them.

Performance Spotlight

Award Winning Players

Player of the Year: Antonino Gallo
 

49 starts, 9 substitute appearances, .

2 goals, 8 assists, 

7.26 average rating.

Gallo has been the definition of consistency. Week in, week out, he delivers. Defensively solid, positionally intelligent, and always willing to get forward and contribute. He might not always grab the headlines, but within the team, his importance is undeniable.

Young Player of the Year: Newertton
 

45 starts, 10 substitute appearances,

15 goals, 16 assists,

7.25 average rating.

For such a young player to arrive and perform at this level is extraordinary. He’s fearless, creative, and relentless in his work rate. Replacing a key player is never easy, but he’s not just filled that gap—he’s made the role his own.

Top Goal Contributor: Yaser Asprilla
 

42 starts, 16 substitute appearances,

21 goals, 22 assists,

7.18 average rating.

These numbers speak for themselves.

Asprilla has been at the heart of everything we’ve done going forward. Goals, assists, creativity—he’s provided it all. What I love most about him is his unpredictability. Defenders never quite know what he’s going to do next, and that makes him incredibly difficult to stop.

Manager’s Special Mention: Alvyn Sanches
 

27 starts, 33 substitute appearances,

21 goals, 8 assists,

7.07 average rating.

6 Man of the Match awards.

Sanches embodies everything I want in a player. He was brought in as a rotation option, but he’s forced his way into the spotlight through sheer performance. Whether starting or coming off the bench, he makes an impact.

Six Man of the Match awards tells its own story.

Players Leaving

Fran Beltrán
 

20 starts, 20 substitute appearances, 

1 goal, 3 assists, 

6.89 average rating.

Sometimes, it’s simply about fit. Fran hasn’t quite reached the level required, and with the direction we’re heading, difficult decisions have to be made.

Players with 6.00 or less ratings (3+ = transfer)

Asprilla – 2x (6.00, 5.90)

Bryan Gil – 1x (6.00)

Newertton – 1x (5.90)

Even the best have off days—it’s part of the game. What matters is consistency over the course of the season, and overall, these players have delivered.

Financial Outlook

Club Balance: -£11.3m

Transfer Budget: £21.4m

Wage Budget: £1.06m per week

Financially, the picture isn’t perfect, but it’s manageable.

Winning the Europa Conference League will provide a significant boost, and combined with our league finish, we should see improvements moving forward. That said, we’ll need to be smart in the market—targeted, efficient, and focused on value.

There’s no room for waste.

Meeting Expectations

Board Expectations:

La Liga (Top Half): Passed – Exceeded massively with a 3rd place finish.

Copa del Rey (Quarter Final): Passed – Reached the final.

Europa Conference League (Knockouts): Passed – Won the competition.

My Expectations:

Top 6 Finish: Passed – Finished 3rd.

Cup Semi Final: Passed – Won the Europa Conference League.

Position for Next Career Step: Achieved – I’ve put myself firmly in the conversation.

This season couldn’t have gone much better in terms of objectives. Every target—internal and external—has been met or surpassed.

Fan Reaction

The supporters have been incredible all season, and their reactions reflect just how much this journey has meant to them:

“We’ve witnessed history this season. From where we were to lifting a European trophy—it’s unbelievable.”

“This team fights for everything. You can see the passion, the identity… this manager has changed the club.”

“Third in the league and a European trophy? I’d have laughed if you told me that a year ago.”

“Whatever happens next, this season will never be forgotten. Absolute magic.”

Their belief, their energy, and their support have played a huge role in what we’ve achieved.

My Future

This is where things become complicated.

Part of me feels that this is the perfect moment to move on. To leave on a high, having taken the club as far as I realistically can in this moment. We’ve achieved something special, something historic—and there’s a risk that staying could lead to stagnation.

Because if I’m being honest, I don’t know how much further we can push this group without significant changes. The gap to the very top is still there, and closing it requires resources and depth that we may not currently have.

At the same time, there’s no opportunity right now that truly excites me.

I’m not in a rush. I won’t move for the sake of it. It has to be the right club, the right project, the right challenge.

If that opportunity comes, I’ll be ready.

If it doesn’t, I’ll stay—and I’ll give everything, as I always do.

But one thing is certain:

This season has changed everything.

Blog Update #09 – Girona FC – 2026/27 - 04

Season Run-In – “Ambition Without Limits”

Overview and News

As the season begins to edge towards its conclusion, I’ve found myself caught between two very different emotions—pride in what we’ve built, and ambition for what comes next.

Just over a year ago, this club was fighting for survival. Now, we are not just competing—we are setting standards, pushing boundaries, and forcing people to take notice. The transformation has been rapid, almost relentless, and it’s something I reflect on quietly rather than celebrate loudly. There is still work to be done, and I’ve never been one to settle.

One of the biggest decisions I’ve made recently reflects that mindset. I turned down a new three-year contract worth £30k per week. On the surface, it’s a significant offer—a £10k pay rise and long-term security at a club where I am clearly valued. For many, it would have been an easy decision.

But I don’t see my career through the lens of comfort.

I see it through opportunity, through growth, and ultimately through winning. As harsh as it may sound, I have to be honest with myself about where this club stands in the wider footballing landscape. The gap to Barcelona and Real Madrid is still enormous. We can compete, we can challenge on our day, but sustaining that level over multiple seasons—winning titles consistently—that’s a different conversation entirely.

I believe I’ve proven myself here. I’ve shown I can take a struggling side, impose a clear philosophy, and turn them into genuine contenders. Naturally, that leads me to think about the next step. A bigger club, bigger expectations, bigger opportunities to win trophies. That’s not disloyalty—that’s ambition.

That said, my focus hasn’t shifted from the job at hand. Not for a second.

We’ve already guaranteed a top-half finish, which, when you consider where we were, is a remarkable achievement in itself. The board are delighted, the fans are fully behind what we’re building, and there’s a real sense that this season could still deliver something extraordinary.

And that’s what drives me—finishing this journey the right way.

Where We Stand

La Liga:
 

3rd Position

30 played, 21 won, 6 draw, 3 lost

63 scored, 23 conceded

69 points.

If the first half of the season was about establishing ourselves, then this recent run has been about making a statement.

Eight games since the last update: six wins, two draws, zero defeats.

We’ve not just maintained our position—we’ve strengthened it. A 14-point gap to 4th placed Real San Sebastián gives us breathing room, a cushion that allows us to approach these final games with confidence rather than fear. At the same time, we’ve edged to within a single point of Barcelona in 2nd—though their games in hand make that a slightly misleading picture.

Still, the fact we are even in that conversation says everything about the progress we’ve made.

The standout performance during this run was undoubtedly the 3-0 away win against Valencia. It was one of those matches where everything clicked into place. From the first whistle, we controlled the tempo, dictated the spaces, and executed our plan with precision. There was a maturity to the performance—patience when needed, ruthlessness when the moment came.

Newertton, in particular, was outstanding. Two assists, a 9.30 rating, and an overall display that perfectly encapsulated his influence on this team. He wasn’t just creating chances—he was orchestrating the game, pulling strings, and constantly finding ways to hurt the opposition.

Performances like that don’t just win games—they send messages.

Copa del Rey:
 

We’ve reached the final, where we will face Barcelona.

This competition has been a journey in itself. Victories over Lugo, Castellón, Málaga, Real San Sebastián, and Tenerife have brought us to this moment—a chance to compete for silverware.

A final against Barcelona is the ultimate test. They represent the benchmark, the level we aspire to reach. On paper, they are favourites. But finals are different. 

They are not played on paper—they are decided by moments, by mentality, by who is willing to give that little bit more.

We will be ready.

Europa Conference League:
 

League Phase – 2nd Position, 6 played, 6 won, 0 draw, 0 lost, 17 scored, 5 conceded. 18 points.

Our European journey continues to build momentum. A 6-0 aggregate victory over Famalicão in the knockout round was as professional as it was dominant. We controlled both legs, managed the games intelligently, and never looked in danger.

Now, the challenge intensifies.

A quarter-final against Manchester United awaits—the one team I identified early on as our biggest obstacle in this competition. They have quality, experience, and a history of delivering on big stages.

If we find a way past them, I genuinely believe we can go all the way.

But there’s no point looking beyond the immediate challenge. This tie will demand everything from us—tactically, physically, and mentally.

Home Grown Graduate

Gibert Jordana
 

18 starts, 6 substitute appearances

3 goals, 1 assist

7.13 average rating.

When I look at Jordana’s season, I see more than just numbers—I see growth.

He was thrown into the deep end earlier than planned due to Martínez’s injury, and situations like that can either expose a player or accelerate their development. In his case, it’s very much the latter.

Defensively, he has improved significantly. His positioning is better, his decision-making is sharper, and he’s beginning to understand the demands of the role at this level. There’s still work to be done, particularly with his crossing, which can be a little inconsistent, but that’s a technical aspect that can be refined over time.

What I value most is his mentality. He didn’t shy away from the challenge—he embraced it.

And that’s exactly the type of player I want at this club.

Performance Spotlight

Best Performing Players

Newertton
 

32 starts, 9 substitute appearances

14 goals, 11 assists

7.32 average rating.

It’s difficult to overstate just how impactful Newertton has been this season. Coming into one of the most competitive leagues in the world and delivering these numbers in his debut campaign is exceptional.

But it’s not just the goals and assists—it’s everything in between. His work rate, his creativity, his ability to unlock defences in tight games. He gives us something different, something unpredictable. When games become cagey, he’s often the one to provide that moment of quality that changes everything.

He’s not just a good player—he’s a difference-maker.

Cédric Zesiger
 

37 starts, 6 substitute appearances

7 goals, 1 assist

7.29 average rating.

For a centre back, these numbers are remarkable.

I brought Zesiger in to address our defensive vulnerabilities, and he’s done that superbly. We are more organised, more disciplined, and far harder to break down. But what has surprised even me is his contribution going forward.

Seven goals from defence is no coincidence—it’s a reflection of his timing, his physical presence, and our effectiveness from set pieces. He has become a genuine weapon in both boxes.

A leader, a performer, and one of the pillars of this team.

Worst Performing Players

Fran Beltrán
 

18 starts, 16 substitute appearances

1 goal, 2 assists

6.87 average rating.

This is less about poor performance and more about circumstance. Fran has struggled to find rhythm, largely due to inconsistent game time. When you’re in and out of the team, it’s difficult to build momentum.

There’s a good player there—I have no doubt about that. But he needs a consistent run to truly show it.

Ryan Naderi
 

37 starts, 0 substitute appearances

11 goals, 6 assists

6.90 average rating.

Ryan’s season is an interesting one. On paper, 11 goals and 6 assists is a decent return. But when you consider the number of games he’s played and the opportunities he’s had, you can’t help but feel there’s more to come.

To his credit, he has improved as the season has progressed. His link-up play is better, his movement is sharper, and he’s contributing more consistently. But I still believe he has another level to reach.

And I expect him to find it.

Players with a 6.00 or less match rating (3+ = transfer)

Asprilla – 1x (6.00)

Bryan Gil – 1x (6.00)

No immediate concerns here, but it’s something I always keep an eye on. Consistency is non-negotiable.

Fan Reaction

The connection between the team and the supporters is stronger than ever. There’s a real sense of unity, of shared belief, and it’s something that has grown organically over the course of the season.

You can feel it in the stadium, in the noise, in the energy. And you can hear it in their words:

“From relegation fears to Champions League dreams—this is more than a turnaround, it’s a revolution.”

“This manager has given us an identity again. You know exactly what this team stands for every time they step on the pitch.”#

“We’re not just winning games—we’re competing with the best. That’s all we ever wanted.”

“If this is what he’s done in a year, imagine what comes next… even if he doesn’t stay forever.”

There’s pride in those voices, but also an understanding. They see the ambition, they recognise the trajectory, and they appreciate the journey we’ve been on together.

And as we head into the final stretch of the season, that connection could make all the difference.

Blog Update #08 – Girona FC – 2026/27 - 03

Mid-Season Momentum – “100% or Nothing Takes Hold”

Overview and News

Just over a year into this journey, I’ve found myself reflecting more than usual. Not out of complacency, but out of a quiet appreciation for how far we’ve come in such a short space of time. When I first walked through the doors of this club, the atmosphere was heavy, almost uncertain. We were 16th, drifting, lacking identity, and staring at the very real possibility of relegation. Now, just twelve months on, we are a side with purpose, direction, and belief—sitting firmly in the race for a Champions League place.

A 72% win rate across 55 games isn’t something I ever envisaged when I took this job. I would be lying if I said I expected things to click this quickly. But credit must go to the players. From day one, I demanded full commitment—100% or nothing—and to their credit, they’ve embraced that mentality in a way that has accelerated everything. This isn’t just a team anymore; it’s a collective that understands what it means to fight for every moment on the pitch.

There’s a calmness around the club now. Not arrogance, not overconfidence—just a quiet understanding that we belong. The training ground has a different feel to it. There’s intensity, but also enjoyment. Players are pushing each other, standards are rising, and there’s a shared accountability that makes my job easier. When a culture starts to build itself like that, you know you’re onto something real.

Where We Stand

La Liga:

3rd Position 

22 played 

15 won

4 draw

3 lost

49 scored

21 conceded

49 points.

Looking at the table now compared to where we were a year ago is almost surreal. Sitting 3rd in La Liga at this stage of the season, nine points clear of 4th place (albeit with a game in hand for them), is a testament to the consistency and resilience we’ve shown.

Since the last update, we’ve navigated 11 league games, picking up 7 wins, 3 draws, and just 1 defeat. On paper, that’s an excellent return. In reality, it’s been a period that tested us in ways we hadn’t yet experienced this season.

November, in particular, was our first real wobble. Three games, three draws. Not disastrous by any means, but it was the first time we’d felt that slight shift in momentum. Matches where earlier in the season we would have found a way to win suddenly became tighter, more frustrating affairs. But what pleased me most was the reaction—there was no panic, no loss of belief. The players trusted the process, and soon enough, the wins returned.

Our only defeat in this stretch came against Barcelona in a narrow 1-0 loss at home. It was one of those games decided by fine margins. We competed well, matched them in many areas, but they had that extra bit of quality when it mattered. There’s no shame in that, but it served as a reminder of the levels we still need to reach.

The standout moment, without question, was the 3-3 draw away at Real Madrid. That game encapsulated everything I want this team to be. We started brilliantly, taking the lead early through Sanches, playing with confidence and intent. But then came adversity—we found ourselves 3-1 down midway through the second half. Against a side like Real Madrid, that’s usually game over.

But not for this team.

There was no heads dropping, no acceptance of defeat. Instead, there was belief—pure, stubborn belief. We pushed, we fought, and we dragged ourselves back into the game. When Vanat equalised in the 96th minute, it didn’t feel like luck—it felt earned. Moments like that define seasons. They build character, they strengthen bonds, and they send a message to the rest of the league: we are not going anywhere.

Copa del Rey:
 

We’ve progressed to the quarter-finals, where we will face Real San Sebastián.

Our route here has been professional and controlled. Victories over Lugo, Castellón, and Málaga have seen us steadily build momentum in the competition. The 8-2 win over Málaga, in particular, was a statement performance. It was one of those nights where everything clicked—fluid attacking play, clinical finishing, and an energy that overwhelmed the opposition from start to finish.

Cup competitions are unpredictable by nature, but there’s a growing belief within the squad that we can go deep in this one.

Europa Conference League:
 

League Phase – 2nd Position, 6 played, 6 won, 0 draw, 0 lost, 17 scored, 5 conceded. 18 points.

A perfect record. Six games, six wins. You can’t ask for more than that.

While we may not have “set the competition alight” in terms of performances every single game, what we have done is show professionalism and control. We’ve approached each match with the same mentality—respect the opponent, impose our game, and get the job done.

Now, heading into the knockout stages, the real test begins. But there’s a quiet confidence in the group that we can compete with anyone in this competition.

Medical Room

In a season where margins are fine, injuries can derail even the strongest of campaigns. Fortunately, we’ve managed to avoid any long-term crises, but we have had to navigate a couple of key absences.

Arnau Martínez
A one-month absence due to a groin strain may not sound significant, but his importance to the team cannot be understated. As our first-choice right back, he provides both defensive stability and attacking support. His absence forced us to accelerate the development of Gibert Jordana, and while it wasn’t ideal timing, it turned into a valuable experience for the young player. To his credit, Jordana stepped up admirably, showing maturity beyond his years.

Iván Martín
This was the more impactful loss. Six weeks without Iván was a real test for us. He is the heartbeat of our midfield—the player everything flows through. Without him, there was a noticeable drop in creativity and control. We had to adapt, rely on others to step up, and find different ways to create chances. It wasn’t always pretty, but it was effective enough to keep us on track until his return.

Overall, while we’ve had our setbacks, the squad has shown resilience and adaptability—two traits that are essential if we’re to maintain our current trajectory.

Transfer Window Review

January came and went without a single incoming or outgoing transfer. In modern football, that almost feels unusual.

But for me, it was a deliberate decision.

We did our business in the summer, and more importantly, we did it well. The squad feels balanced, competitive, and aligned with the philosophy we are building. Bringing in new players mid-season can sometimes disrupt that balance, and given our current form, it simply wasn’t necessary.

That said, we weren’t without interest from other clubs.

Antal Yaakobishvili attracted bids from Málaga (£3.6m) and Parma (£4m). While he wasn’t entirely happy about the decision to reject those offers, I made it clear to him that he is a vital part of this squad. Depth is crucial, especially as we compete on multiple fronts. His release clause remains in place, and that is the only way he will leave.

Yaser Asprilla was the subject of serious interest from Bayern Munich, with three separate offers ranging from £48m to £57m. Turning those down wasn’t easy from a financial perspective, but football decisions aren’t always about money. Asprilla has become pivotal to how we play. He may have arrived as a backup option, but his performances have made him indispensable. Selling him mid-season would have sent the wrong message.

Sometimes, the best transfer decision is no decision at all.

Dressing Room Dynamics

The dressing room is in a good place. Not perfect, but strong—and more importantly, honest.

There’s a shared understanding among the players about what is required. Standards are high, and accountability is present. When things go well, the group celebrates together. When things don’t, they address it together. That’s the foundation of any successful team.

Of course, no dressing room is without its challenges.

Vladyslav Vanat has expressed his frustration at not starting as many games as he would like. It’s a fair concern from his perspective—he’s a talented player who has delivered important moments, including that dramatic equaliser against Real Madrid. But the reality is that he is competing in a position where the bar is extremely high.

I’ve been honest with him. He is not currently our first-choice striker, but he is an important part of the squad. Rotation, competition, and patience are all part of the process. How he responds to this situation will say a lot about his character moving forward.

Overall, though, the mood remains positive. Players believe in what we are building, and that belief is reflected in their performances.

Are We On Target To Reach Our Goals?

At this moment in time, the answer is a clear yes.

Every objective set at the start of the season—both by the board and by myself—is within reach, and in some cases, we are exceeding expectations. A push for Champions League qualification is no longer an ambitious dream; it’s a realistic target. Progress in both domestic and European cup competitions has also reinforced the sense that this season could become something truly special.

But I am cautious.

Football has a way of testing you when you least expect it. We’ve had our first small wobble, but the real challenges often come in the latter stages of the season, when pressure intensifies and fatigue sets in.

What gives me confidence is not just our position in the table, but the mentality of the group. This team doesn’t shy away from challenges—they embrace them. The “100% or nothing” philosophy isn’t just a slogan anymore; it’s embedded in everything we do.

The second half of the season will define us. And if the first half is anything to go by, we are ready for it.

Blog Update #07 – Girona FC – 2026/27 - 02

No Fluke – We’ve Arrived

Overview and News

Eleven games in, and I can feel it.

Not just inside the dressing room, not just on the pitch—but around the club, in the stands, in the way people talk about us now.

There’s belief.

And belief is dangerous… in a good way.

I sat down recently for an interview with talksport, and it gave me a moment to reflect—something I don’t often allow myself to do mid-season. I was asked about my tenure so far, and for once, I didn’t hold back.

I told them I’m delighted.

Not just with the results—but with the effort. Every single player is buying into what I demand. That “100% or nothing” philosophy isn’t just something I say anymore—it’s something they live.

You see it in the way we press.
 

You see it in the recovery runs.
 

You see it in the reactions when we lose the ball.

That’s not tactics—that’s mentality.

Of course, they asked about concerns.

And I was honest.

We haven’t had a bad run yet.

In football, that’s coming. It always does. And when it comes, that’s when I’ll really learn about this group. It’s easy to believe when you’re winning. It’s easy to work hard when things are going your way.

But what happens when they’re not?

That’s the real test.

They also tried to push me on my future—whether bigger clubs might come calling after last season and this start.

I shut it down.

I told them I’m fully committed to Girona. And I meant it.

It would take something truly special to pull me away right now—because what we’re building here… it’s only just getting started.

Where We Stand

La Liga:
 

3rd Position
11 played, 8 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses
23 goals scored, 9 conceded
25 points

This isn’t a good start. 

This is an exceptional one.

We’ve lost just twice—away to FC Barcelona and away to Villarreal CF, managed by José Mourinho. Two difficult fixtures, two expected challenges.

Outside of that?

We’ve been relentless.

We currently sit just four points behind Real Madrid CF in second. Let that sink in.

Over a quarter of the season gone, and we’re not just competing—we’re setting the pace.

The narrative from last season is gone now. This isn’t a “good run” or a “bounce.”

This is who we are.

The result that stands out most to me wasn’t against a top side—it was the 4-0 win over Valencia CF.

Because it showed control.

We had the ball. We dominated possession. Ant they played exactly how we wanted them to play. No danger. No penetration.

And when we had our moments?

We were ruthless.

9 shots on target. 4 goals.

That’s efficiency. That’s discipline. That’s understanding.

Alvin Sanches was outstanding that day—2 goals, 8.40 rating—but it was the collective that impressed me most.

Copa del Rey:
 

Through to the 2nd round (9-0 vs Arroyo)

A professional job.

No complacency. No drop in standards.

We rotated heavily, gave opportunities, and still delivered a dominant performance. That’s the depth we’ve built.

Europa Conference League:
 

League Phase – 4th Position
2 played, 2 wins
5 goals scored, 2 conceded

We’ve done what we needed to do.

Nothing spectacular—but efficient.

And having seen the competition up close now, I’ll say this:

We have a real chance. There’s quality in the tournament, no doubt. But if we stay disciplined, if we stay consistent, there’s no reason we can’t go deep. There’s only one side I’d rather avoid for now—Manchester United FC.

Experience matters in Europe.

But we’ll deal with that if it comes.

Tactics Working?

This is where I’m most satisfied.

Because what we’re seeing on the pitch is exactly what we’ve been working on behind the scenes.

Tactical Success:

We are defensively solid.
 

Nine goals conceded in eleven games tells its own story. The structure is there. The discipline is there.

Goals are coming from everywhere.
 

Sixteen different goal scorers already this season. That’s not luck—that’s system. Everyone knows their role, everyone contributes.

Set pieces are becoming a weapon.
 

We have the second most set-piece goals in the league. That’s preparation, repetition, and attention to detail.

Tactical Negatives:

Possession, has been better but against the bigger sides we look overrun.

We don’t keep the ball well enough.

Now, that’s not entirely by design—but it’s an area we need to improve. There will be games where control matters more than transition, and in those moments, we need to be better.

It’s something we’re working on.

But I won’t sacrifice what’s already working just to chase perfection.

Home Grown Graduate

Gibert Jordana
 

3 starts, 3 substitute appearances
1 goal, 0 assists
7.47 average rating

He’s doing exactly what I hoped he would.

Progressing.

Training well. Listening. Improving.

When he’s played, he’s contributed going forward—which is a big positive for a young full-back. He’s not afraid to get involved, not afraid to take responsibility.

But defensively, there are still lessons to learn.

Positioning. Awareness. Timing.

That’s natural at his age.

The key thing is—he’s learning.

And as long as that continues, he’ll keep getting opportunities.

Performance Spotlight

Best Performing Players:

Alvin Sanches
 

8 starts, 8 substitute appearances
5 goals, 5 assists
7.36 average rating

He’s forcing my hand.

Every time I think about rotating him out, he produces something. A goal, an assist, a moment of quality.

He was brought in as a squad option.

Right now, he’s playing like a starter.

And I reward performance.

Andrew Omobamidele
 

14 starts
3 goals, 0 assists
7.21 average rating

This is exactly why I signed him.

Dominant. Composed. Reliable.

For a centre-back to consistently produce ratings like that tells you everything. He’s become the foundation of our defence, and everything is built around him.

Worst Performing Players:

Ryan Naderi
 

12 starts
3 goals, 0 assists
6.72 average rating

This one puzzles me.

He has everything—size, movement, finishing ability.

But it’s not clicking.

I’ve seen this before though. Last season, the striker role was an issue too. It might be the system—it demands a lot from that position.

But I won’t change the system.

He needs to adapt.

For now, he gets time.

Bryan Gil
 

11 starts, 2 substitute appearances
4 goals, 0 assists
6.84 average rating

This is mental, not tactical.

He wanted to leave. I didn’t allow it.

Now he’s frustrated.

The thing is—he’s still performing reasonably well. But I can see it. That extra edge isn’t there. That hunger has dipped slightly.

He needs to get his head right.

Because if he does, he’s one of our most dangerous players.

Performance Standards Tracker:

Asprilla – 1x (6.00)

The line is clear. And it doesn’t move.

Fan Reaction

The fans are loving it.

And I don’t blame them.

They’re seeing a team that works, a team that fights, a team that knows exactly what it’s doing.

A few voices that stood out:

"This isn’t just a good run anymore—we’re actually a top team now."

"You can see the structure in everything we do. Even when we don’t have the ball, we’re in control."

"From relegation worries to third place… what a turnaround."

"If we keep this up, Europe won’t just be a bonus—it’ll be expected."

They believe.

Now it’s on us to make sure that belief is justified.

And as for me?

I’m not getting carried away.

Because I know what’s coming.

A bad run. A difficult spell. A moment where things don’t go our way.

And when that happens…

That’s when this team will truly be tested.

That’s when we’ll find out who we really are.

Blog Update #06 – Girona FC – 2026/27 - 01

New Standards, New Stakes

Overview and News

Pre-season always brings reflection—but more importantly, it brings clarity.

Last season proved something to me. Not just about the players, but about myself. I can do this. I can take a struggling side, impose my ideas, and get results. But now comes the real test—doing it from the start, with expectation, with pressure, and with people watching.

That pressure became very real earlier this summer.

The FC Bayern Munich job became available, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t take notice. Clubs of that stature don’t come around often, and when they do, you have to at least put yourself in the conversation. So I applied.

I didn’t expect much from it.

But then the call came.

An interview.

I remember standing in front of the mirror, putting on my suit—same sharp look, same attention to detail. If you’re going to walk into a club like Bayern, you don’t go in hoping… you go in believing you belong.

I got on the plane to Munich, sat there thinking about everything—my journey, my methods, my philosophy. The interview itself was intense, detailed, exactly what you’d expect. They questioned everything. My style, my man-management, my long-term vision.

And I gave them everything straight.

No nonsense. No dressing it up.

In the end, it wasn’t to be.

And that’s fine.

Because walking out of that building, I didn’t feel rejected—I felt recognised.

Back at Girona, things were a little more grounded… but no less important.

The situation with Donny van de Beek came to a head. Ipswich came in with an offer of £500k, which I accepted. The board weren’t happy—they wanted more. Typical.

But I made my position clear.

If he stayed, he wouldn’t play. Simple as that.

There’s no room for players who question authority without backing it up on the pitch. After some back and forth, the board agreed.

He’s gone.

And we move forward.

Board Expectations

The board have laid out their expectations for the season ahead.

La Liga: Finish in the top half

Copa del Rey: Reach the quarter finals

Europa Conference League: Reach the knockout stages

On paper, reasonable.

But I don’t operate on “reasonable.”

Top half isn’t enough for me. Not after what we showed last season.

We’ve set a standard now—and once you set it, you don’t drop below it.

Transfer Window Review

This was never going to be a quiet summer.

Last season’s success was built on momentum—but momentum alone doesn’t carry you through a full campaign, especially not with European football added into the mix.

On top of that, we lost five loan players, including key figures like Thomas Lemar. That left gaps—big ones.

So we acted.

Transfers In:

Antonio Gallo (Free Transfer)
 

A smart addition. 26 years old, experienced, and technically very good. His crossing ability stood out immediately. He’ll provide real competition at left back, and competition is something I demand in every position.

Cédric Zesiger – £3.5m from FC Augsburg
 

A no-nonsense defender.

Strong, brave, and positionally sound. He’s exactly the type of player you need when you’re trying to build defensive stability. I see him competing immediately for that left centre-back role.

Ryan Naderi – £7.75m from Rangers
 

This one excites me.

At 6ft 4in, he gives us something completely different. Physical, intelligent with his movement, and a natural finisher. He’ll be key in games where we need a focal point—someone to hold the ball, bring others in, and impose himself on defenders.

Andrew Omobamidele – £7m from Strasbourg
 

Possibly the most important signing of the window.

We needed pace and presence at the back, and he brings both. At 6ft 3in, he’s dominant in the air, and his recovery speed allows us to play higher up the pitch.

If we’re serious about improving defensively, he has to be central to that.

Alvin Sanches – £7.25m from Young Boys
 

A versatile attacking option.

Technically gifted, creative, and unpredictable. He’ll rotate across multiple positions and give us depth—something we’ll desperately need with the number of games coming.

Newertton – £27.5m from Shakhtar
 

A statement signing.

This wasn’t planned.

But when Viktor Tsygankov left for Atlético Madrid, we had to act.

And we didn’t just act—we broke records.

He’s 21, fearless, and has that raw quality you can’t teach. Two-footed, direct, relentless in his movement.

He’s not here to replace Tsygankov.

He’s here to become something different.

Transfers Out:

We moved on five players, generating £63.8m.

Ladislav Krejčí → Wolves (£20m)

Viktor Tsygankov → Atlético Madrid (£42.5m)

Tsygankov wasn’t a deal I wanted to make.

But sometimes, the offer is too good.

And if we’re going to grow as a club, we need to be smart—not sentimental.

We also cleared out players like Axel Witsel and Daley Blind. Experienced, yes—but not part of what I’m building.

Rejected Offers:

Bryan Gil → £32m (Al-Ahli)

Iván Martín → £37.5m (Leicester), £42.5m (Al-Ittihad)

Both were easy decisions.

They’re core to this team.

And I won’t weaken us unless it’s on my terms.

Tactical Setup

My philosophy hasn’t changed—but it has evolved.

Out of Possession: 4-4-1-1 DM

Structure. Discipline. Compactness.

The striker has to be mobile, able to press and hold the ball when needed. Behind him, the shape is everything—two banks of four, tight, organised, suffocating space.

No gaps. No excuses.

In Possession: 4-2-3-1 DM

Controlled aggression.

The box-to-box playmaker becomes the heartbeat—linking defence to attack, dictating tempo, driving forward when the opportunity presents itself.

As we move up the pitch, the system transforms.

Wingers tuck inside, becoming additional goal threats. Full-backs push on, providing width. Suddenly, we’re attacking with numbers, creating overloads, forcing mistakes.

It’s not just about shape.

It’s about intent.

Squad and The Key Players

This squad looks very different now.

Stronger. Deeper. More competitive.

Goalkeepers:
 

We don’t have an elite name—but we have reliability. This season, I’m placing my trust in Vladysav Krapyvtsov. He’s young, hungry, and ready.

Defence:
 

Last season wasn’t good enough. Simple as that.

Now, we’ve addressed it.

Arnau Martínez remains, and he’ll be joined by Omobamidele and Gallo. The final spot is open—earned through performance, not reputation.

Midfield:
 

The double pivot of Iván Martín and Solís will be key.

Balance. Energy. Control.

Attack:
 

This is where things get interesting.

Competition everywhere.

As it stands, Bryan Gil, Asprilla, and Newertton lead the line behind the striker—but that can change quickly.

Because here, nothing is guaranteed.

Key Players:

Iván Martín
 

The engine.

Everything flows through him. Defensively, he shields. Offensively, he dictates.

If he performs, we perform.

Newertton
 

The unknown.

Replacing a player of Tsygankov’s quality isn’t easy—but I see something in him.

Something different.

Now it’s about proving it.

Home Grown Graduate

Gibert Jordana (19)

A product of the system.

Quick, composed, and technically sound. He’ll provide cover at right back, but more importantly, he represents the pathway.

If you’re good enough, you’ll get your chance.

Age doesn’t matter.

Standards do.

Personal Target for the Year

I’ve set my targets.

• Top 6 in La Liga
• Semi-final of a cup
• Put myself in a position to take the next step in my career

Ambitious?

Yes.

But realistic too.

Because I’ve seen what this group can do.

Last season was about proving a point.

This season?

It’s about making a statement.

And I don’t intend to fall short.

Blog Update #05 – Girona FC – 2025/26 - 03

From Survival to Statement

Overview and News

When I look back on the last six months, it’s hard not to feel a sense of satisfaction—but not comfort.

Comfort is dangerous.

What I feel is recognition. Recognition of the work that’s gone in, the standards that have been set, and the shift that’s taken place both on and off the pitch.

When I arrived, this club was drifting. Sitting 16th, lacking direction, conceding too many goals, and—more importantly—not showing the kind of fight required at this level.

Now?

We’re a team.

Not perfect. Not complete. But a team with identity, structure, and belief.

That didn’t happen overnight. It came from difficult conversations, hard training sessions, and decisions that weren’t always popular. Players were challenged. Some stepped up. Some didn’t.

And that’s the reality of football at this level.

What’s pleased me most isn’t just the results—it’s the buy-in. The players have committed to what I’m asking. They’ve worked, they’ve run, they’ve adapted. And when that happens, results tend to follow.

There’s still a long way to go. But the foundations are there now.

And that’s everything.

Final Season Results

La Liga:
7th Position
38 played, 17 wins, 7 draws, 14 losses
59 goals scored, 55 conceded
58 points

If someone had offered me that when I walked through the door, I’d have taken it without hesitation.

To take a team from 16th after 17 games and finish 7th is no small achievement. It’s a reflection of the work the players have put in and the standards we’ve maintained.

But I don’t deal in “good enough.”

Because when I look closer, I see what could have been.

We finished just two points behind Atlético Madrid in 6th. Two points.

And that’s where frustration creeps in.

The final five games of the season hurt us. Three defeats on the bounce at a crucial moment. A wobble when we needed control. That’s the difference between a good season and a potentially great one.

That’s the next step for this team—consistency under pressure.

Going forward, there are positives to build on.

We finished with the 6th best attack in the league. That tells me we’re doing a lot right in the final third. We’re creating chances, we’re scoring goals, we’re asking questions of teams.

But defensively?

That’s where the problem lies.

55 goals conceded. The 9th worst defence in the league.

That’s not sustainable if we want to move forward.

Structure can only take you so far—at some point, you need the right personnel. And that’s something I’ll be addressing in the summer.

Copa del Rey:
 

Eliminated before my arrival (2nd round)

There’s no dressing that up—it’s unacceptable.

To be knocked out by Tarazona, a lower league side, is not the standard this club should accept. Regardless of when it happened, it reflects poorly.

That’s something that needs correcting next season.

Performance Spotlight

Every season tells a story through its players.

And this one is no different.

Player of the Year: Viktor Tsygankov
 

25 starts, 3 substitute appearances
11 goals, 4 assists
7.13 average rating

He’s been our most decisive player.

From the right-hand side, he’s consistently delivered—goals, movement, threat. When we’ve needed something, more often than not, he’s been the one to provide it.

Reliable. Dangerous. Effective.

That’s what I expect from players in those positions.

Young Player of the Year: Arnau Martínez
 

25 starts, 2 substitute appearances
0 goals, 1 assist
6.80 average rating

A steady presence.

Defensively, he’s been consistent. Reliable in his positioning, disciplined in his role. But there’s more to come from him—especially going forward.

Modern full-backs need to contribute at both ends.

That’s the next step in his development.

Top Goal Contributor: Thomas Lemar
 

31 starts, 5 substitute appearances
5 goals, 10 assists
6.92 average rating

The creative hub.

Everything in the final third has gone through him at some point. His vision, his movement, his ability to find space—it’s been crucial.

But I’ll be honest—he should have more goals.

For a player in that position, arriving late into the box, finding pockets between the lines… five goals isn’t enough.

There’s more there.

And I’ll demand it next season.

Manager’s Special Mention: Bryan Gil
 

30 starts, 2 substitute appearances
7 goals, 6 assists
7.04 average rating

He represents everything I want from a player.

Hard-working. Intelligent. Committed.

Yes, his numbers are good—but it’s the unseen work that stands out. Tracking back, supporting defensively, pressing when needed.

He’s set a standard.

And others should be looking at him as the example.

Then there are those who haven’t met the level required.

Abel Ruiz
 

12 starts, 19 substitute appearances
7 goals, 2 assists
6.69 average rating

Frustration is the only word for it.

There’s a player in there. I’ve seen it. But inconsistency at this level is the same as underperformance.

One game he’s aggressive, sharp, fully committed.

The next, he’s invisible.

Since I arrived, his performances have dropped. And for someone expected to lead the line, that’s not acceptable.

He’ll be leaving.

David López
 

26 starts
1 goal, 0 assists
6.72 average rating

This is a different situation.

It’s not about effort. It’s not about attitude.

It’s about time.

At 36, the game moves faster than it used to. And while I respect everything he’s done, I have to make decisions based on what the team needs now.

He’ll be released in the summer.

Performance Standards Tracker:

Abel Ruiz – 1x (5.90)

Thomas Lemar – 1x (5.90)

Alejandro Francés – 1x (6.00)

The rules are clear.

Standards are non-negotiable.

Financial Outlook

The financial situation is… manageable, but not comfortable.

Club Balance: -£8 million

Transfer Budget: £31.7 million

Wage Budget: £950k per week

There’s work to be done here.

We’re not in a position to waste money. Every decision in the transfer market has to be calculated, precise, and aligned with what we need.

The good news is that prize money from this season should stabilise things.

But that doesn’t mean we can relax.

Recruitment this summer will be crucial—not just in terms of quality, but value.

Meeting Expectations

Board Expectations:
 

Finish mid-table.

We’ve exceeded that.

Comfortably.

That matters—not just for reputation, but for trust. The board backed me when I came in, and we’ve delivered beyond what was asked.

Credit to the players for that.

My Expectations:

I didn’t set any when I arrived.

Mid-season jobs are different. You’re reacting, adapting, stabilising.

But now?

That changes.

Because what I’ve seen over the last six months tells me this team is capable of more.

And next season, that’s exactly what I’ll be demanding.

Fan Reaction

The supporters have been fully behind us.

And rightly so—they’ve seen the change.

Not just in results, but in effort, identity, and belief.

A few voices stand out:

"From 16th to 7th… that’s not luck. That’s proper management."

"You can finally see a system. Players know what they’re doing. It’s night and day from earlier in the season."

"We’re exciting to watch again. But sort that defence out and we could be something special."

"He’s ruthless—but that’s what we needed. No more passengers."

They understand it.

And that connection between the team and the fans—that’s something I want to keep building.

My Future

Six months in management, and already there’s noise.

Talk of potential. Of being a future “elite” manager.

It’s flattering—but premature.

I’ve done nothing yet.

Not really.

This is just the start.

That said, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t aware of what’s out there. Opportunities come and go quickly in football, and I won’t ignore them if they’re right.

But I’m not desperate to leave.

Not when there’s still work to be done here.

If I stay—and that’s the plan as it stands—then next season has to be about progression.

Breaking into the top six.

We’ve shown it’s possible. We’ve beaten top sides. We’ve competed at a high level.

Now it’s about doing it consistently.

With the right additions in the summer, particularly defensively, there’s no reason we can’t take that next step.

But nothing will be given.

Everything will be earned.

Just like it always has been.

And just like it always will be.

Blog Update #04 – Girona FC – 2025/26 - 02

Standards Over Sentiment

Overview and News

If you had asked me when I first walked through the doors in December whether we’d be sitting where we are now, I would have told you it was possible—but only if everything changed.

Not just results.

Everything.

Standards. Effort. Mentality. Accountability.

And to the players’ credit, they’ve embraced it.

The last couple of months have been intense, probably the most demanding period of my managerial career so far—not because of the games, but because of what’s been required behind the scenes. Changing habits isn’t easy. Breaking old routines, challenging players, calling things out directly… it creates friction.

But sometimes friction is exactly what you need.

One of the clearest examples of that has been Donny van de Beek.

I gave him a clean slate when I arrived. Like I did with everyone. No baggage, no judgement—just an opportunity to prove himself.

But instead of taking it, he questioned it.

Not once. Not quietly. Repeatedly.

There are certain things I’ll accept as a manager—poor form, mistakes, dips in confidence. That’s part of football.

But I won’t accept challenges to authority that undermine what we’re building.

I gave him the chance to put it right. A simple conversation. An opportunity to apologise, reset, and move forward.

He refused.

So I made a decision.

He’s been removed from the first team and sent to train with the B team.

No drama. No spectacle.

Just a consequence.

Because if I allow that kind of behaviour to exist, then everything we’ve worked on so far starts to unravel. Standards slip. Discipline fades.

And I won’t let that happen.

Not here.

Not ever.

Where We Stand

This is where things get interesting.

8th place.
29 games played.
12 wins. 6 draws. 11 losses.
46 goals scored. 41 conceded.
42 points.

From 15th… to 8th.

That’s not a small improvement.

That’s a shift.

The last nine games have been the turning point. Seven wins, one draw, one loss. At one stage, we put together a five-game winning run that completely changed the feeling around the club.

But more importantly—it changed the belief inside the dressing room.

The wins themselves were impressive.

A 2-1 victory at home against Atlético Madrid.
 

A 2-1 win away at Sevilla.

Two fixtures where, realistically, nobody expected us to get anything.

But we didn’t just win those games.

We controlled them.

That’s the biggest difference I’m seeing now. We’re not reacting to games anymore—we’re dictating them. Setting the tempo, imposing our structure, making teams adjust to us.

And that only happens when players fully buy in.

Which they have.

Defensively, we’re still not perfect. 41 goals conceded tells you that. But the organisation is better, the distances are tighter, and the effort levels are exactly where I expect them to be.

Going forward, we’re dangerous.

There’s intent in everything we do. Movement, purpose, aggression.

And now, with nine games to go, we’re not looking over our shoulder anymore.

We’re looking up.

The Copa del Rey remains a non-factor this season—we were out before I arrived. But in a way, that’s helped us. No distractions. No divided focus.

Just the league.

Just progression.

Performance Spotlight

As always, when results improve, individuals start to stand out.

And a few players have taken this opportunity exactly how I hoped they would.

Bryan Gil has been outstanding.

24 starts, 1 appearance from the bench.
7 goals. 4 assists.
7.11 average rating.

When I came in, I identified him as someone who could thrive in my system—and he’s proven me right. But what’s impressed me most isn’t just his attacking output.

It’s his work rate.

He tracks back. He presses. He commits.

He’s doing both sides of the game, and that’s why he’s become such an important player for us.

Then there’s Iván Martín.

29 starts. Ever-present.
2 goals, 6 assists.
7.04 average rating.

Consistency is one of the hardest things to find in football—and he’s delivering it every week. He’s become the heartbeat of this team, the player everything flows through.

There was a lot of noise around him in January. Big offers. Big money.

But this… this is exactly why I stood firm.

You don’t replace players like that mid-season.

Not if you’re serious about building something.

On the other side of things, there are players who haven’t quite met the level required.

David López is one of them.

25 starts.
1 goal. 0 assists.
6.73 average rating.

This isn’t about effort—because I can’t fault that. He gives everything he’s got.

But at 36, football can be unforgiving.

The pace, the intensity, the demands of the system—it’s clear that time is catching up with him. And while I respect everything he’s done in his career, I have to make decisions based on what’s best for the team now.

Then there’s Abel Ruiz.

9 starts, 15 appearances from the bench.
6 goals, 2 assists.
6.73 average rating.

He’s… frustrating.

Because the ability is there. You see it in flashes. Moments where he looks like exactly the player you want leading the line—aggressive, sharp, committed.

And then there are games where he disappears completely.

That inconsistency is the issue.

At this level, you can’t afford passengers.

I’ve also made it clear to the squad that individual performance matters. Players who drop below a 6.00 match rating more than three times in a season will be moved on.

It’s not personal.

It’s standards.

So far, Abel has one—5.90.

He’s been warned.

Fan Reaction

The fans… they’ve been exceptional.

You can feel the shift around the club—not just in results, but in belief. There’s an energy now that wasn’t there when I arrived. A sense that something is building.

And they’ve responded to that.

They appreciate effort. They appreciate organisation. And above all, they appreciate seeing a team that cares.

I’ve heard the conversations. Read the comments. Felt the atmosphere on matchdays.

And it’s clear—they’re with us.

A few voices have stood out:

"You can see what he’s trying to do. For the first time in years, we look like a team with a plan."

"The difference isn’t just results—it’s the fight. Every player is working now. That’s all we ever wanted."

"Bryan Gil has gone to another level under him. That’s proper coaching."

"Lopez looks off the pace, and Ruiz… you just don’t know what you’re getting. But the manager sees it too, which is reassuring."

They’re honest.

And I respect that.

Because in many ways, they’re saying the same things I see every day.

Nine games to go.

We’ve given ourselves a chance—not just to survive, but to do something more.

But this is where it gets dangerous.

Because it’s easy to get carried away when things are going well.

That won’t happen here.

The message stays the same.

Standards don’t drop. Effort doesn’t dip. Focus doesn’t shift.

Because what we’ve built so far…

Means nothing if we don’t finish it properly.

Blog Update #03 – Girona FC – 2025/26 - 01

Laying the Foundations

Overview and News

The first few weeks in management have felt exactly how I expected them to feel—relentless, demanding, and completely consuming.

There’s no easing yourself into this role. No time to sit back and observe. From the moment I walked through the doors at Girona, it’s been constant decision-making. Every conversation matters. Every session counts. Every detail, no matter how small, has the potential to shape what comes next.

And I’ve loved every second of it.

The first thing I knew I had to get right was the environment around me. I’ve always believed that no manager succeeds alone, and if I’m going to build something here, I need people beside me who understand exactly what I expect.

That’s why I moved quickly to reshape the backroom staff.

Raúl Valbuena came in as my Assistant Manager. That was a key appointment. I needed someone who could bridge the gap—not just tactically, but culturally. Someone who understands the Spanish game, the language, the nuances of the league, but also someone who buys into my philosophy completely. Raúl is exactly that. Calm where I’m intense, measured where I’m direct, but aligned in every important way.

Then there’s Robbie Fowler.

A name that carries weight. A natural goalscorer. Someone who understands instinct in the final third better than most. I brought him in as an Attacking Coach because I want our forward players thinking differently—more decisively, more ruthlessly. If we’re going to hurt teams, we need to do it properly. Robbie’s already started working closely with the attackers, and I can see the sharpness improving.

Defensively, I knew we needed help.

Daniele Baldini was brought in with one purpose—to organise, to instil discipline, to stop the chaos I was seeing on the pitch. He’s meticulous, detailed, and doesn’t let things slide. Exactly what we need at the back.

Together, it’s a staff that reflects what I believe in—balance, structure, and high standards.

Where We Stand

Three games into my time here, and already I feel like I’ve learned a lot about this team.

We currently sit 15th in La Liga.

20 games played.
5 wins. 5 draws. 10 defeats.
30 goals scored. 33 conceded.
20 points.

It’s not where we want to be—but it’s not beyond fixing either.

The results so far have been… honest.

We started with a draw against Real Betis. A tough game, one where I could already see small improvements in our structure. We were more compact, more disciplined, but still lacking that cutting edge when it mattered.

Then came Barcelona.

Top of the league. Full of quality. And, realistically, a different level to where we are right now. We lost—but I wasn’t disappointed. Not entirely. There were moments in that game where we competed, where we showed resilience. But ultimately, quality told.

The real test was the response.

And the players delivered.

A 4-1 win over Osasuna.

That was the first time I saw something close to what I want this team to become. Intensity, movement, aggression in the final third. We didn’t just win—we imposed ourselves.

That matters.

As for the cup, there’s nothing to report. Girona were already out of the Copa del Rey before I arrived, which simplifies things.

One competition. One focus.

Survival—and progress.

Medical Room

I’ve never been one to hide behind injuries.

Every team deals with them. Every manager has to adapt.

But I’d be lying if I said they haven’t made an impact already.

Abel Ruiz—out for six weeks with a calf strain. That’s a significant blow. I had plans for him as my main striker, someone who could lead the line and set the tone for our press. Losing him so early has forced adjustments.

Arnau Martínez—five weeks with a sprained ankle. First-choice right-back. A player who would have been crucial in providing width and balance to the system. His absence has disrupted that side of the pitch.

Viktor Tsygankov—four weeks with knee ligament damage. Another key attacking outlet gone. His ability to stretch the game and create from wide areas is something we’ve had to replace collectively.

These aren’t minor players.

These are starters.

But this is where mentality comes in.

I’ve made it clear—injuries are opportunities. Someone else steps in. Someone else proves they deserve to be here.

No sympathy. Just chances.

Transfer Window Review

January is always a dangerous window.

Clubs panic. Managers rush. Money gets spent without real thought or planning.

That was never going to be me.

I made a decision early—I wasn’t going to come in and start tearing things apart before I fully understood what I had. This squad deserves proper evaluation, not knee-jerk reactions.

So we stayed quiet.

No major incomings. No unnecessary spending.

But we did have interest going the other way.

Iván Martín.

Two offers from Al-Ahli—£42 million and then £48 million.

Serious money.

The kind of money that makes clubs think twice.

But I said no.

Not because I don’t understand the financial side of the game—but because right now, we need stability. We need our best players on the pitch, not being replaced mid-season.

That decision didn’t go down perfectly.

Iván was unsettled. And I understand why. A move like that changes a player’s life. Financially, professionally—it’s hard to ignore.

So we spoke.

I was honest with him.

I told him if a club comes in with £52 million, I won’t stand in his way.

That’s the balance you have to strike—firm, but fair.

Dressing Room Dynamics

The dressing room is… average.

That’s the best way to describe it right now.

Not toxic. Not fractured. But not where it needs to be either.

There’s a sense that this group has been drifting. No real leadership. No strong identity. Players doing their jobs, but not pushing beyond that.

That’s changing.

Slowly.

They’re starting to understand me now. The way I speak. The way I expect things to be done. I don’t dress things up. If something’s not right, I say it.

Some players respond well to that.

Others don’t.

Donny van de Beek is one of those situations.

He’s unhappy. Wants more game time. Feels he should be playing more regularly.

And I’ve told him the same thing I’ve told everyone—it’s a clean slate. Perform in training, earn your place, and you’ll play.

But I can sense hesitation.

Not everyone likes competition.

Not everyone likes accountability.

We’ll see how that develops.

Because at the end of the day, no one is bigger than what we’re building here.

Are We On Target To Reach Our Goals?

When I took the job, the board made their expectations clear.

Mid-table finish.

That’s the target.

And right now?

I believe we’re on course.

There’s enough quality in this squad to achieve it. I’m certain of that. In fact, looking at the league as a whole, I’d go a step further—this team should be pushing for the top half, maybe even top eight with the right consistency.

But we’re not there yet.

What I’m seeing is progress—but not perfection.

We’re more organised. More disciplined. Harder to break down.

But there are still lapses. Still moments where concentration drops, where old habits creep back in.

That’s the challenge now.

Consistency.

Because if we can find that—if we can string together performances rather than moments—then there’s no reason we can’t climb this table quickly.

For now, though, I’m keeping it simple.

Game by game.

Performance by performance.

Standard by standard.

Because foundations aren’t built overnight.

But once they’re set…

They don’t move.

Blog Update #02 - Job Hunt

A Line in the Sand

Finding A Club

For months, my life became a routine of waiting and watching.

Every morning started the same way—coffee, newspapers, and a quiet scan through the chaos of football management. Sackings, pressure mounting, fans turning, boards losing patience. It sounds ruthless, because it is. But that’s the game. And if I was going to get my opportunity, it was going to come from someone else losing theirs.

I wasn’t naive to that.

There were moments of doubt creeping in. Weeks where nothing moved, no calls came, and I started to wonder if I’d been a little too confident stepping away from coaching. It’s easy to believe in yourself when you're inside a club, when you’ve got a badge on your chest and a role to play. It’s different when you're on the outside looking in.

But I stayed patient. I stayed ready.

Then things started to shift.

Burnley came first. A Premier League club. Big stage. Big pressure. The kind of opportunity most would snap your hand off for without a second thought. The conversations were positive, the project was clear, and the financial package… let’s just say it made you think.

But something didn’t sit right with me.

Maybe it was too soon. Maybe it was the wrong fit. Or maybe—if I’m being honest—I didn’t want my first job to feel like survival from day one. I wanted something I could shape. Something I could build my way.

Then Girona came calling.

And that felt different.

There was something about the idea of La Liga. The technical level. The tactical battles. The opportunity to impose something new in a league that demands intelligence as much as intensity. Girona might not be considered a giant in the traditional sense, but don’t mistake that—they’re a serious football club with a platform to grow.

The interview just confirmed it for me.

They didn’t just want a manager. They wanted direction. Standards. Identity.

That’s where I come in.

On the 28th of December 2026, I sat down with a contract in front of me. Three years. £20,000 a week. My first managerial job.

I reached into my pocket and pulled out my pen.

A 1998 WHSmith black Parker pen.

The same pen my dad gave me when I signed for West Ham as a kid. I’ve carried it with me ever since. Not for luck—but as a reminder. Of where I started. Of the standards that were drilled into me long before football became a career.

I signed my name.

And just like that…

It began.

History of Girona

Before I step into any club, I make it my business to understand it.

Girona Football Club was founded in 1930. Not born out of wealth or dominance, but out of community. A club built on persistence rather than privilege.

For much of their history, Girona lived in the shadows of Spanish football. Years spent in the lower divisions, fighting for relevance, fighting for stability. Promotions would come, followed by setbacks. Progress rarely came easy.

Their breakthrough moment didn’t arrive until 2017, when they achieved promotion to La Liga for the first time in their history. That was a turning point. A signal that this club could compete at the highest level.

Since then, it’s been a story of fluctuation. Moments of promise, periods of struggle. Relegation battles, rebuilds, and the constant challenge of holding onto their place among Spain’s elite.

They’ve never been a club weighed down by expectation—but that doesn’t mean they lack ambition.

No major trophies. No golden eras of dominance.

But sometimes that’s exactly what makes a club dangerous.

Hungry. Unproven. Ready to be shaped.

Where They Are At Now

When I first looked at the league table, I didn’t need long to understand the problem.

16th place.
17 games played.
4 wins. 4 draws. 9 defeats.
22 goals scored. 27 conceded.
16 points.

It tells a clear story.

At first glance, you might assume a team down there is struggling across the board. But that’s not the case here. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.

We can score goals.

Only four teams in the entire league have scored more than us this season. That tells me there’s quality in the final third. Movement. Creativity. Players capable of hurting teams.

But defensively?

27 goals conceded. Second worst in the league.

That’s not bad luck. That’s not coincidence.

That’s a lack of discipline.

When I watch the footage back, it becomes even clearer. Gaps between the lines. Players not tracking runners. No urgency to recover shape. Too many moments where individuals switch off and expect someone else to do the work.

That won’t happen under me.

The pre-season expectations had Girona finishing 11th. And looking at the league, I don’t think that’s unrealistic. In fact, I think it’s the bare minimum.

We’re already out of the cup, so there are no distractions now.

No excuses either.

This season is about one thing—stability. Fixing the problems. Building a foundation.

And making sure this club is still a La Liga club when the season ends.

Squad and The Key Players

First impressions of the squad?

Talent—without direction.

There’s ability here. You don’t score goals in this league without it. But what I see is a group that’s been allowed to drift. Standards have slipped. Effort levels aren’t where they need to be.

And that’s where I draw the line.

The first meeting I had with the players was simple. No long speeches. No dramatic statements.

Just clarity.

This is a fresh start.

Everyone gets a chance. Every single player has the opportunity to prove themselves—not just for this season, but for their future at this club.

But that opportunity comes with a condition.

You run. You work. You give everything.

Or you don’t play.

Simple.

There are a couple of players I’ll be leaning on heavily from the start.

Bryan Gil.

Wide forward on the left. Technically gifted, sharp, capable of making things happen in tight spaces. But talent alone won’t carry him in my system. He’s going to have to work—track back, support defensively, double up when needed.

If he buys into that, he can be a real difference-maker.

Then there’s Marc-André ter Stegen.

A goalkeeper I know well, not just for his shot-stopping but for his intelligence. This system will ask a lot of him. There will be space in front of him at times, and he’ll need to be proactive—sweeping up danger, starting attacks, staying switched on.

He’s not just a goalkeeper in this team.

He’s part of the structure.

Tactical Setup

Everything I do comes back to structure.

Out of possession, we’ll set up in a 4-4-1-1 with a defensive midfielder anchoring things. Two solid banks of four. Compact. Disciplined. Hard to break down.

The striker will need to be mobile—someone who can stretch the line, receive the ball across the front, and hold it up when needed. He’ll be the first line of pressure.

Distances between players will be tight. No gaps. No space to exploit.

If teams want to break us down, they’re going to have to work for it.

In possession, we shift.

4-2-3-1.

The key role here is the box-to-box playmaker. The heartbeat of the team. He needs to do everything—drive forward, create, support the attack, then drop back in and defend when needed.

As we move forward, the shape becomes aggressive.

Wingers tuck inside. Suddenly, we’re playing with three central attacking threats. The full-backs push on, providing width, stretching the game, creating overloads.

It’s controlled aggression.

But it only works if everyone commits.

Financial Situation

Financially, the club is stable—for now.

There’s no immediate crisis. No panic.

But that doesn’t mean we’re safe.

Relegation would change everything.

The drop in revenue, the loss of exposure, the shift in ambition—it would be significant. Potentially damaging long-term.

So while I’m not walking into a disaster…

I’m walking into a situation that cannot afford failure.

My Ambition at Girona

I didn’t come here to settle.

I signed a three-year deal, but I’m being honest—with myself and with the club.

This is a step.

An important one, but a step nonetheless.

I want to build something here. I want to impose my ideas, raise standards, and leave the club in a stronger position than I found it.

But I’m ambitious.

I don’t plan on being here forever.

If things go the way I believe they will, then in 18 months, I want to be looking at the next challenge. A club competing in Europe. A bigger stage. A higher level.

That’s not arrogance.

That’s belief.

For now, though, all my focus is here.

Girona.

A club fighting for its place. A squad in need of direction.

And a manager with something to prove.

This is where the real work begins.

Blog Update #01 - Back Story

100% or Nothing

My name is Freddie Thomas.

I was born on the 1st of May, 1987, in Milton Keynes. Not the most glamorous start, not the kind of place people expect footballers to come from with big stories attached. But I’ve never been about glamour. I’ve always been about work.

That’s how I was raised.

It was just me and my dad growing up. My mum left when I was young, and from that moment on, it was clear what kind of environment I was in. My dad was a hard man—no excuses, no shortcuts, no sympathy. You did things properly, or you didn’t do them at all. And if you chose the first option, you gave it everything.

“If you’re not going to give 100%, don’t even start.”

That wasn’t just something he said—it was the rule.

I learned that the hard way. I remember being told to mow the lawn one day. It wasn’t big—six-yard box at best—but I rushed it because I wanted to go out and play. Left the edges uneven, thought nothing of it. When my dad saw it, he went mad. I told him it was “just grass.”

That didn’t go down well.

I was grounded for a week. No toys, no distractions. And every day, I had to mow that same lawn again. Properly. Every line straight, every edge clean. I didn’t get it wrong again.

That moment stuck with me. Not because of the punishment—but because of the principle.

If you start something, you finish it properly.

That mindset followed me into everything. I tried different sports growing up—kickboxing, hockey, rugby—but none of them stuck. Either I didn’t love them, or I didn’t feel like I could give everything to them. And in my house, that meant they didn’t last.

Then came football.

That was different.

From the moment I started training with AFC South Hawks at nine years old, something clicked. Every Wednesday night, no matter the weather, I was there from 5:30 to 7. And when the session finished? I stayed longer. Asking questions. Working on things. Pushing for more.

Sundays were matchdays, and I’d turn up over an hour early just to prepare. Some of the lads laughed at me. Said I was doing too much.

They didn’t understand.

I didn’t even play in the first seven games. Sat on the sidelines, watching lads two years older than me take my place. For some, that would’ve been the end of it. For me, it was fuel.

I wasn’t there to make up numbers. I was there to take over.

When my chance came, I took it. Centre midfield. Number 33 on my back. I ran, tackled, created, chased everything. I didn’t stop. I couldn’t stop.

After the game, the coach stood me up in front of everyone and said I’d be starting the next match—no matter who turned up.

That’s all I ever needed. One chance.

From there, things moved quickly. At 11, I signed for West Ham’s academy. Proper football. Structure. Expectations. Pressure. Everything I’d been preparing for without even realising it.

My playing career took me further than I ever imagined. From West Ham to Portsmouth, then out to PSV, where I learned what real football culture looked like. Germany followed—Dortmund—where I played the best football of my life. Intensity, discipline, winning mentality. That league suited me.

I finished up at Porto before calling it a day at 30.

Not because I had to.

Because I knew.

I’ve always believed in standards, and I could feel mine slipping. Maybe not massively, maybe not visibly—but I knew. And if I wasn’t going to give 100% anymore, then I wasn’t going to start.

So I stopped.

82 caps for my country. 33 goals. A career I’m proud of—but I’m not one for looking back too long.

Because this isn’t about the player I was.

It’s about the manager I’m going to become.

After retiring, I put everything into coaching. Got my badges, worked with amateur sides, then got my first proper opportunity at Derby’s youth setup. From there, I moved to Nottingham Forest, working under Nuno Santos.

And just like that—it was gone.

Not because of anything I did. Not because of my standards. But because in football, when a manager goes, everyone goes.

That didn’t sit well with me.

I’ve spent my whole life being accountable for my own actions. And suddenly, my future was in someone else’s hands.

Not anymore.

Now, I’m stepping out on my own. Looking for my first managerial job. My first real test.

Everything will be on me now—results, performances, decisions.

No hiding.

And if there’s one thing you should know about me before this journey starts, it’s this:

I won’t compromise.

I’ve seen what works at the highest level. The best managers in the game weren’t soft. They demanded everything. Mourinho. Ferguson. Conte. Bielsa. Men who built standards and refused to let them slip.

That’s the kind of manager I’m going to be.

Players who don’t run won’t play.
 

Players who don’t listen won’t last.
 

And players who think they’re bigger than the team won’t even get through the door.

Simple.

This is where it starts.

No safety net. No second chances.

Just me, my principles, and whatever club is brave enough to hand me the keys.

And one way or another…

I’m going to make it work.

Season Kick-Off – Champions League or Bust

By Joe Brookes

Last season was about survival — steadying a club that was on the brink and proving that, even under impossible circumstances, we could still compete.

This season feels very different.

We’re back in the Premier League, but simply returning isn’t enough. Not for a club of this size, not for a squad of this quality, and certainly not for the financial position we find ourselves in. There’s an underlying pressure now that didn’t exist in quite the same way last year — because this time, failure has far greater consequences.

The Stakes Have Changed

The board have laid out their expectations clearly, and on the surface, they seem ambitious but achievable: a top 7 finish, quarter-finals in both Europe and the domestic cups, £75 million in player sales, and a reduction of the debt to £1.3 billion.

But the reality goes beyond those targets.

Finishing in the top 7 might satisfy the board, but it won’t solve our biggest problem. Without Champions League football, the financial situation remains fragile at best. That’s the truth of it. The margins we’re working with are incredibly fine, and while progress is being made, it’s not happening quickly enough to give us any real security.

So while the targets are there in black and white, everyone inside the club understands the unspoken objective.

We have to qualify for the Champions League.

A Transfer Window of Restraint

For the second consecutive season, the transfer ban has dictated our approach.

No new signings. No fresh faces to raise the level or add depth. Just the same group of players, expected to go again — this time at a higher level.

In some ways, that brings clarity. There are no distractions, no bedding-in periods, no unknowns. I know exactly what I have, and more importantly, I know what they’re capable of.

We did, however, make progress in trimming the squad. Three permanent departures brought in £107 million, and a further 16 players were sent out on loan. That was just as important — reducing the wage bill while giving younger players opportunities to develop elsewhere.

The three departures were:

• Tosin Adarabioyo — OGC Nice, £26m.
• Pedro Neto — Al-Ittihad, £51m.
• Axel Disasi — Al-Ahli, £30m.

It wasn’t a dramatic window.

But it was a necessary one.

The Gamble

Where this window truly defined us wasn’t in the players we sold — it was in the ones we didn’t.

We turned down serious offers. The kind of offers that could have significantly reduced the debt and eased the pressure surrounding the club.

Interest came from Bayern Munich for Enzo Fernández, from Tottenham Hotspur for Malo Gusto, and repeatedly from Juventus FC for several of our key players. There was even a bid from FC Barcelona for Wesley Fofana that, frankly, didn’t come close to reflecting his value.

And then there was the biggest test — £105 million for João Pedro.

That one made me pause.

Because in purely financial terms, it made sense. It would have given us breathing room, flexibility, maybe even a degree of safety.

But football decisions can’t always be made on balance sheets alone.

I’ve made a conscious decision to back this group — to keep the core of the squad together and take a calculated risk. Because I genuinely believe that keeping these players gives us the best possible chance of achieving what we need to this season.

If we get into the Champions League, it justifies everything.

If we don’t… then next summer becomes a very different conversation.

Identity Remains

One thing that hasn’t changed is how we play.

The 4-2-3-1 system served us incredibly well last season, and there’s no reason to move away from it. In possession, it naturally shifts into a 4-3-3, giving us control in midfield while allowing our attacking players the freedom to rotate and create.

At the heart of it all is Enzo Fernández.

His role in this system can’t be overstated. He’s the link between defence and attack, the player who dictates tempo, who decides when we accelerate and when we slow things down. Everything we do flows through him.

Around him, the structure is clear:

Caicedo provides the balance and defensive stability

Palmer operates between the lines, unlocking defences

The wide players drift inside, becoming goal threats rather than just creators

Last season, our goals came from everywhere, and that unpredictability made us very difficult to defend against.

That’s something I want to carry forward.

Selection Headaches – The Good Kind

For the first time since I’ve been here, I’m dealing with genuine competition for places.

Not just squad depth — real, high-level decisions.

In goal, Sánchez remains my number one, but Mike Penders will get his opportunities, particularly in the cup competitions.

Defensively, the return of Levi Colwill creates a real dilemma. Benoît Badiashile was exceptional last season — arguably our best player — and now I have to decide how to fit them both in, or whether one misses out.

That’s not a problem.

That’s a privilege.

Elsewhere, the structure is more settled. Reece James, when fit, is one of the best in his position. Fofana and Cucurella provide consistency, and in midfield, the partnership of Enzo and Caicedo gives us control.

In attack, though, things are far less certain.

Geovany Quenda has started the season just ahead of Estevão, but the gap between them is minimal. Performances will dictate selection, and that’s exactly how it should be.

Competition raises standards.

And we’ll need those standards to be as high as possible this season.

A New Face, A New Opportunity

This year’s youth promotion is Reggie Walsh.

He’s had a taste of first-team football before, but this season represents his real opportunity to establish himself within the squad.

He’ll primarily act as cover in the attacking midfield role, but what I like about him is his versatility. He understands the game well enough to operate deeper when needed, which gives us flexibility.

I won’t rush his development.

But I won’t protect him from it either.

He’ll play his part this season — and how big that part becomes is entirely up to him.

Targets That Define Everything

Personally, I’ve set very clear objectives.

We have to qualify for the Champions League. That’s non-negotiable — not just for sporting reasons, but for the future of the club.

I also want to win the Europa League. It’s a competition this club has history in, and it offers an alternative route into the Champions League if the league campaign doesn’t go as planned.

And finally, I want proof that what we built last season translates to this level. Whether that’s finishing with the best attack or the best defence, it’s about maintaining an identity and showing that our success wasn’t just situational.

It was sustainable.

A Familiar Concern

Reece James’ injury is a reminder that not everything is within our control.

Another hamstring issue. Another spell on the sidelines.

Two months without him at the start of the season is far from ideal, especially given how important he is to the way we play.

But it also reinforces why we made certain decisions in the transfer window.

Why we kept Malo Gusto.

Why depth matters.

Because over the course of a season like this, setbacks are inevitable.

It’s how you respond to them that defines you.

No More Safety Nets

Last season, we were chasing something — fighting to overcome a deficit, to prove a point, to rebuild.

This season, the pressure feels heavier.

Now we have something to lose.

Our place in the league.
 

Our best players.
 

The progress we’ve made.

There’s no safety net this time. No margin for error.

Because the reality is simple, and it underpins every decision I’ve made this summer:

Champions League football isn’t just the objective.

It’s survival.

End of Season Review – When A Plan Comes Together

By Joe Brookes

There are moments in football where everything just clicks — where all the planning, all the pressure, and all the uncertainty finally come together into something real.

This season was one of those moments.

Not just for me, but for everyone connected to this club.

League Standings

We finish the season as champions.

That alone would be enough for most clubs, but when you add the context of everything we’ve faced this year, it becomes something far greater:

• 1st Position
• 46 played, 39 wins, 4 draws, 3 losses
• 135 scored, 33 conceded
• 101 points

We clinched the title on the final day with a composed 2-0 win over West Brom, and as the whistle went, there was a real sense of fulfilment. At the start of the season, I said this squad was capable of hitting 100 points without the deduction — the fact we’ve done it with the deduction says everything about this group.

Throughout the year, we’ve been the benchmark. We scored more than anyone else, conceded less than anyone else, and in truth, we looked a level above the rest of the league for most of the campaign.

Individually, there were standout performers too. Benoît Badiashile led the league with a 7.44 average rating, while Cole Palmer’s creativity was unmatched, finishing with 20 assists. These aren’t just good numbers — they’re title-winning contributions.

Cup Progress

Cup competitions often tell you more about a team’s mentality than league form ever can — and this year, they revealed just how strong this group really is.

Carabao Cup

Our journey ended early with a 2-0 defeat to Brentford. At the time, I rotated heavily to manage the schedule, and looking back, it’s something I take responsibility for. It was a lesson in balance — one I’ve carried with me ever since.

FA Cup

The FA Cup, though, became something much bigger.

What started as a relatively straightforward run quickly turned into a gauntlet. Wins over Liverpool FC and Tottenham Hotspur showed the level this team can reach when everything clicks.

Then came the final against Manchester City.

Losing Reece James just before the game was a huge blow. As captain, he’s the heartbeat of this team, and his absence could have unsettled us. Instead, it brought clarity.

I made it clear to the players what this game meant — not just in footballing terms, but financially. Without European football, the situation at this club could have become unsustainable. The weight of that reality was heavy, but the players didn’t shy away from it.

They embraced it.

What followed was one of our most disciplined and focused performances of the season, as we secured a 1-0 win at Wembley. That victory wasn’t just about lifting a trophy — it was about securing the club’s immediate future.

Champions League

Our European journey ended in the semi-finals, and despite the disappointment, it’s something I look back on with immense pride.

We were beaten 1-0 on aggregate by FC Barcelona, and across both legs, there was very little between the sides. At that level, it often comes down to moments — and unfortunately, they went against us.

But what we proved along the way is what matters most.

We went toe-to-toe with some of the best teams in Europe, including a dominant 7-4 aggregate win over Liverpool FC. That result alone showed that this squad belongs on the biggest stage.

If anything, this campaign has confirmed what I already believed — we have a group capable of achieving something truly special.

Stand Out Players

Every successful season is built on individuals stepping up when it matters most — and this group has delivered that in abundance.

Player of the Year – Benoît Badiashile

From the very beginning, he set the standard:

• 47 starts
• 7 goals, 3 assists
• 7.44 average rating

At a time when we needed stability, he became the foundation. Calm on the ball, dominant in the air, and consistently reliable — he didn’t just fill a gap in the squad, he made the position his own. Going into next season, he’s made my decisions far more difficult, and that’s exactly what I want.

Young Player of the Year – Jamie Gittens

Breaking into this squad is no easy task, but he’s done it through sheer consistency and impact:

• 12 goals, 15 assists
• 7.30 average rating

He’s added unpredictability to our attack — direct, fearless, and constantly improving. What’s impressed me most is how quickly he’s developed his decision-making. He’s no longer just exciting — he’s effective.

Top Goal Contributor – Cole Palmer

• Not always the headline-grabber this season, but always the difference-maker:
• 15 goals, 22 assists

Cole has a unique ability to influence games in key moments. Even in matches where things aren’t flowing, he finds a way to produce something decisive. In a different season, with tighter games, his numbers could have been even higher.

Manager’s Special Mention – Alejandro Garnacho

There were questions when he arrived. There aren’t any now:

• 17 goals, 20 assists
• 7.33 average rating

He’s been outstanding. Direct, productive, and consistent — he’s become one of the first names on the team sheet and a player we now rely on.

Youth Progress

Josh Acheampong’s development has been exactly what this club is built on moving forward:

• 11 starts, 14 substitute appearances
• 1 goal
• 6.97 average rating

He’s handled the step up well. There have been moments where he’s had to adapt quickly, but that’s part of the process. He’s learning from top-level players every day, and that exposure is invaluable.

Next season will be crucial for him — whether that’s continuing to grow here or gaining experience elsewhere, we’ll make that decision carefully.

Fan Reaction

From day one, the supporters have been behind us.

Considering everything they’ve been through — the ownership turmoil, the financial uncertainty, the relegation — their backing has been incredible. Now, there’s a genuine connection again. You can feel it in the stadium, in the atmosphere, in the way the team responds on the pitch. And they deserve everything we’ve given them this season.

Financial Outlook

Despite all the success on the pitch, the financial situation remains a serious concern.

Net Debt: £1.64 billion

We’ve made progress, but not enough.

The reality is, the scale of the problem is huge, and it’s not something that can be fixed in a single season. Every decision we make moving forward will need to balance performance with sustainability.

That challenge doesn’t go away.

If anything, it becomes even more important now.

Did We Meet Board Expectations

When the season started, the board set clear objectives.

Looking back, we’ve delivered — and then some:

• Avoid relegation — Yes
• Reach the last 16 in a domestic cup — Yes
• Make £50m transfer sales — Yes
• Reduce net debt to £1.5bn — No

That final target is the one that lingers.

Because while success on the pitch buys time, it doesn’t solve everything.

Final Thoughts

This season was about proving something.

Proving that this club could still compete.
 

Proving that this group of players could deliver under pressure.
 

Proving that there is a future here worth fighting for.

We’ve taken a huge step forward.

But we’re not finished.

Not even close.

Run-In – Automatic Promotion On The Horizon

By Joe Brookes

Seven games remain.

It’s a strange feeling, knowing how far we’ve come in such a short space of time. At the start of the season, everything felt uncertain — the points deduction, the expectations, the pressure from all angles. Now, as we head into the final stretch, there’s a different energy around the place. There’s belief, but also an understanding that nothing has been achieved yet.

League Form: Turning Pressure Into Opportunity

We currently sit 2nd in the table after 39 games:

32 wins, 4 draws, 3 losses

116 goals scored

30 conceded

80 points

Looking back to the start of the season, I set a target of reaching 80 points after the deduction. At the time, it felt ambitious — something we’d have to be near perfect to achieve. The fact we’ve already hit that mark with seven games still to play says everything about this group.

We’ve not just competed — we’ve set the standard.

We remain the best attacking side in the league and the strongest defensively. More importantly, we’re now firmly in control of our own fate. We sit three points clear of Norwich in 3rd, five behind Birmingham in 1st, and crucially, we still have a game in hand.

What once felt impossible is now very real.

February: A Necessary Reality Check

That said, the last couple of months haven’t been perfect.

February, in particular, tested us in ways we perhaps hadn’t experienced earlier in the season. We only managed to win three of our six league games, and it served as a reminder of how unforgiving this league can be if your levels drop, even slightly.

The defeat away at Coventry stands out more than any other.

It was one of those games that leaves you frustrated long after the final whistle. We completely dominated every aspect:

• 29 shots to 4
• 11 corners to 0
• 2.42 xG to 0.56

And yet, we lost 3-1.

Those are the kind of results that can derail a season if you let them. Sánchez had a difficult afternoon, reflected in his 5.70 rating, but I’ve never been one to single out individuals. These moments happen, and what matters is how you respond.

Thankfully, the players responded in the right way.

Key Players Stepping Forward

As we’ve moved into the most important phase of the season, certain players have taken on even greater responsibility.

Jamie Gittens has been outstanding. His performances have lifted us in crucial moments, and his average rating of 7.56 reflects just how influential he’s been. He’s not just producing numbers — he’s dictating games.

Alongside him, Cole Palmer continues to be the creative heartbeat of the team. Seventeen assists now, and it feels like he’s involved in almost everything we do going forward. When games become tight, he’s the one who finds the solution.

These are the players you rely on when the pressure increases — and they’ve delivered.

The Cups: From Rotation to Real Opportunity

Our journey in the domestic cups has been mixed, but there’s now a genuine opportunity in front of us.

The Carabao Cup exit to Brentford still lingers as a disappointment. I made changes to manage the squad, and ultimately, we paid the price. At a club like Chelsea FC, those decisions are always scrutinised — and rightly so.

In the FA Cup, though, we’ve found momentum.

We’ve progressed to the quarter-finals, navigating past Sheffield Wednesday and Portsmouth in games where we controlled proceedings from start to finish. But the standout result came against Liverpool FC. A 3-1 win, against a side of that quality, showed exactly what this group is capable of when everything clicks.

Now, with Shrewsbury up next, there’s a growing sense that this competition could become something far more significant for us.

European Nights Continue

The Champions League campaign continues to feel surreal.

To be managing a Championship side and still competing at this level is something I don’t think will ever feel normal. But the players have embraced it.

Our tie against Atalanta BC in the last 16 was as professional a performance as we’ve produced all season. A 3-0 win away from home set the tone, and the 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge ensured there were no late scares.

Now, we face Liverpool FC once again — this time on the European stage.

It’s another challenge, but at this point, I don’t think anyone in that dressing room fears what’s ahead.

Youth Development: Building for the Future

Josh Acheampong’s development has been steady and encouraging.

With 10 starts and 12 appearances from the bench, he’s been relied upon more than perhaps even he expected at the beginning of the season. His average rating of 6.95 reflects a player who is still learning, but also one who can be trusted when called upon.

He’s spent this season surrounded by experienced players like Reece James, Wesley Fofana, and Marc Cucurella — and that exposure will be invaluable for his long-term development.

For now, he’s a dependable option. In the future, he could be much more.

The Fans: Belief Restored

The supporters have been outstanding.

Not just in moments of success, but throughout the entire journey. They’ve seen the setbacks, the uncertainty, the financial concerns — and they’ve stayed with the team.

Now, there’s a genuine connection again.

You can feel it in the stadium, in the way the players respond, in the energy around the club. That belief has grown week by week, and as we approach the final stretch, it could make all the difference.

The Financial Reality

Despite everything happening on the pitch, the financial situation continues to cast a shadow.

The debt has now climbed beyond £1.8 billion, and it feels like it increases every time I look at it. It’s a constant reminder that success on the pitch isn’t just about trophies or promotion — it’s about survival.

The only way forward, at least for now, is simple:

• Keep winning
• Stay competitive
• Maximise every opportunity for revenue

Anything less, and the consequences could be severe.

Breaking Into the Top Two

February 24th marked a turning point.

For the first time this season, we broke into the automatic promotion places. It was a moment that validated everything we’ve been working towards. I said not long before that I believed we could get there — and the players proved it.

But getting there is one thing.

Staying there is another.

The Final Push

Seven games.

That’s all that remains between us and promotion.

This is where everything we’ve built will be tested:

• The mentality
• The consistency
• The ability to handle pressure

We’ve done the hard part by putting ourselves in this position.

Now comes the hardest part of all — finishing the job.

Because after everything this club has been through this season…

We cannot let this slip.

Mid-Season Crossroads – Keeping Our Stars

By Joe Brookes

We’ve reached the beginning of February, and for the first time this season, I feel like I can properly take stock of where we are. Not just the results, not just the performances — but the bigger picture. Because this point in the season is always where things shift. Early momentum either fades… or it becomes something much more powerful.

Right now, I can feel this group leaning towards the latter.

League Form (SkyBet Championship): Control and Authority

If I’m being honest, this is exactly what I expected from this squad.

Not hoped for — expected.

Current Position

3rd place

Played: 30

Won: 26

Drawn: 2

Lost: 2

Goals Scored: 98

Goals Conceded: 22

Points: 60

Take away the points deduction, and we’re not just in a promotion race — we’re dominating the league.

We’ve been relentless:

• Scoring goals at a rate no one else can match
• Controlling games from start to finish
• Defending with consistency and discipline

The gap in goals alone says everything. Birmingham, the next closest side, are on 64 — we’re miles ahead. We’re currently six points behind them, but I don’t see that as a concern. I see it as a target.

And with the way we’re playing, I’m convinced we’ll close that gap and secure automatic promotion. It’s no longer a question of if — it’s when.

A Performance That Defined Us

There are always games in a season that say more than the table ever could.

For us, that was the 8-1 win over Wrexham at Stamford Bridge. It wasn’t just the scoreline — it was the response.

A few weeks earlier, they frustrated us, held us to a 0-0, and made the game ugly. We didn’t deal with it well enough that day. But at home? We were ruthless.

We controlled every moment, punished every mistake, and showed exactly what happens when this team plays with confidence and purpose. That performance wasn’t just about three points.

It was a statement.

Cup Progress: Learning and Moving Forward

Carabao Cup

Our exit to Brentford still lingers in the back of my mind. It was early in the season, I rotated heavily, and we paid for it. At a club like Chelsea FC, those decisions are always magnified.

It was a reminder — there’s no such thing as a “less important” game here.

FA Cup

We entered in the third round and progressed comfortably.

A 4-2 win over Sheffield Wednesday with a heavily rotated side, but what pleased me most wasn’t the scoreline — it was the control. 

Thirty shots to their six. Dominant possession. Complete authority over the game.

That’s the standard, regardless of who’s on the pitch.

Champions League

This competition continues to surprise me.

League Phase Finish

7th place

Played: 8

Won: 5

Drawn: 2

Lost: 1

Goals: 17 scored, 8 conceded

Points: 17

We’ve qualified automatically for the knockout stages.

Let that sink in.  

A Championship side… in the last 16.

The only defeat came against FC Barcelona at the Camp Nou — and even then, we matched them for large parts of the game. The difference? They took their chances. We didn’t. At this level, that’s everything.

But what it showed me is this:

• We don’t just belong in this competition.
• We can compete in it.

Injuries: Disruption and Opportunity

Injuries are part of football — I don’t like to dwell on them. But that doesn’t mean they don’t test you.

Pedro Neto’s fractured leg was a significant blow. He had been a key part of our attacking play:

• 5 goals
• 4 assists
• Constant threat down the flank

And then there’s Estevão. At just 18, he’s been exceptional:

• 9 goals
• 7 assists
• One of the most dangerous players in the squad

Losing him for five weeks wasn’t ideal, especially given the form he was in.

But I’ve always believed in looking at these moments differently. Injuries don’t just take players out — they create opportunities.

And so far, the squad has responded exactly how I would want.

January Transfer Window: Holding Firm

This window was always going to be quiet.

The transfer ban made that decision for us in terms of incomings — but outgoings were still in my control.

And I made a very clear call:

• No one leaves.
• We had already exceeded the board’s sales targets in the summer, and breaking up this squad mid-season would have been a mistake.

There was interest:

• Around £35 million offers from Wolves for both goalkeepers
• A serious approach from Paris Saint-Germain for Marc Cucurella

All rejected.

Cucurella wasn’t happy — and I understand that. Opportunities like that don’t come around often. But we had an honest conversation. He’s agreed to reassess in the summer.

Right now, the focus is here.

Dressing Room Dynamics: Managing Success

Success brings its own challenges.

Overall, the atmosphere in the dressing room is excellent. The players are aligned, focused, and pushing in the same direction. But there are always situations to manage.

Enzo Fernández has made it clear he’s interested in a move to Saudi Arabia. Financially, it’s a huge opportunity for him.

But from my perspective, it’s simple. He’s under contract. He’s vital to this team. And he’s not leaving.

He wasn’t happy with that decision — but leadership isn’t about making everyone comfortable. It’s about doing what’s right for the club.

Cucurella’s situation is different. He’s been professional, patient, and willing to wait.

That’s all I can ask.

Are We on Track?

If I’m being honest — we’re not just on track.

We’re ahead.

Promotion is no longer a distant goal — it’s firmly within reach.
 

The title is a real possibility.
 

And we’re competing in Europe at a level no one expected.

This team hasn’t just adapted to the circumstances.

It’s risen above them.

A Season That’s Gaining Momentum

I remember Boxing Day — December 26th — as a real turning point.

That was when it felt like something clicked. We weren’t just chasing anymore. We were competing.

And now?

We’re hunting the top.

The Real Challenge Now

The football is the easy part. The real challenge is what comes next.

Because now we have:

• Momentum
• Attention
• Expectation

And with that comes pressure.

The focus now isn’t just on winning games — it’s on:

• Keeping this squad together
• Managing external interest
• Maintaining standards when fatigue kicks in

We’ve built something strong here. But at this stage of the season, that’s not enough.

Now it’s about holding onto it.

Because if we can…

There’s something very special waiting at the end of this road.

Early Season Pulse – Where We Stand

By Joe Brookes

Twelve games into the season, and I can honestly say — this job hasn’t given me a moment to settle. Every three days, another match. Every week, a new challenge.
 

League fixtures, European nights, and the constant pressure of managing a club that feels like it’s balancing on a knife edge financially.

But despite all of that… the players have responded.

Fighting Back From the Impossible

It’s easy to look at the table and see 20th place and make assumptions. But context is everything.

We started this season 20 points behind everyone else — written off before a ball was even kicked. And yet, after 12 games, the numbers tell a very different story.

We’ve won 10 and lost just 2. We’ve scored 31 goals — the most in the league. We’ve conceded just 10 — the best defensive record. And still… we sit on 10 points.

It’s a strange feeling. On performance, we look like one of the strongest sides in the division. On paper, we’re still playing catch-up.

But that was always the reality of this job.

Finding Stability at the Back

The start of the season wasn’t perfect — especially defensively. Filip Jörgensen stepped in while Robert Sánchez was injured, and to his credit, he did a solid job. But we lacked consistency, and we conceded more than I was comfortable with. Since Sánchez returned, though, everything has settled. There’s more organisation. More communication. More confidence across the back line. And the results reflect that.

Five clean sheets already, the most in the league. Sometimes, it’s not about spectacular saves — it’s about presence. He’s given us that.

A Lesson Learned in the Cups

Our Carabao Cup run ended early with a 2-0 defeat to Brentford. That one sits with me.

I made changes to keep the squad fresh, knowing the schedule we’re dealing with, and it cost us. At a club like Chelsea FC, you’re expected to compete in every competition, regardless of circumstances.

It’s a balance I’m still learning.

The FA Cup doesn’t begin until January, and given our situation, it may become more important than ever as the season goes on.

A Surreal European Campaign

There are moments where I have to remind myself of the reality we’re in. We’re a Championship side… playing in the Champions League. And not just competing — leading.

Three games. Three wins. Ten goals scored. Just two conceded.

We’ve beaten:

• Real Madrid
• Villarreal CF
• Celtic FC

I didn’t expect this. Not like this.

Yes, we have quality in the squad — players who belong at that level — but the circumstances are unique. Balancing a lower domestic league with elite European competition isn’t straightforward.

What I’ve been most impressed with is the mentality. The players haven’t looked out of place. They’ve embraced it.

A System That’s Starting to Stick

Injuries have made things difficult. We’ve had players out of position, constant rotation, and very little chance to build rhythm. But despite that, the tactical framework is holding.

We’re averaging over two goals a game and conceding less than one. That balance is exactly what I want.

One thing that’s really stood out is how effective we’ve been down the left-hand side. Marc Cucurella has been excellent — not just defensively, but in how he links play:

• Overlapping at the right moments
• Combining quickly in tight spaces
• Creating overloads

A lot of our attacking threat is coming from that side, and it’s something we’re continuing to build on.

The Players Setting the Standard

There are always individuals who define the early part of a season.

For us, Estevão has been outstanding.

Five goals and six assists in fifteen games tells its own story, but it’s more than that. He’s fearless, direct, and decisive. He’s keeping experienced players like Neto and Gittens out of the team on merit.

That’s exactly the kind of competition we need.

Benoît Badiashile has also been a standout — consistent, composed, and reliable during a period where we’ve needed stability at the back.

Areas That Need More

Not everything has been perfect.

Malo Gusto has had a difficult spell. With Reece James injured, he’s had to step in as our first-choice right-back, and while his availability has been important, the performances haven’t quite been where I need them to be. An average rating of 6.89 tells part of the story.

I need more from him: 

• Better decision-making.
• More impact going forward.
• Greater consistency defensively.

He knows that — and we’re working on it.

Progress From Within

One of the most important parts of this season is development.

Josh Acheampong has made a promising start.

Four starts, three appearances from the bench, and even a goal. He’s been asked to play out of position at times, particularly at right-back, to help manage the squad — and he’s handled it well. He’s not dominating games yet, but that’s not the expectation.

What I’m seeing is:

• Composure
• Willingness to learn
• Steady improvement

That’s exactly what we need.

The Fans Are With Us

The support from the fans — now the owners — has been incredible.

They understand the situation. They see the effort. And they’re backing the team.

There’s a connection building again, something that had been missing for a while.

You can feel it on matchdays.

The Reality We Can’t Ignore

For all the positivity on the pitch, there’s a shadow hanging over everything we do. The finances.

Despite a strong summer in terms of sales, the net debt has risen again.

£1.75 billion.

That number changes everything.

It means:

• Promotion isn’t just a goal — it’s a necessity
• Every decision has financial consequences
• And failure this season could be catastrophic

This isn’t just about football.

It’s about survival.

Where We Are Right Now

We’re performing at a level that suggests we belong at the top of this league.

We’re competing with Europe’s best and holding our own.

We’re rebuilding trust with the supporters.

But we’re also still:

• 20th in the table
• Under huge financial pressure
• Walking a very fine line

This season was never going to be normal. But if these first twelve games have shown me anything…

It’s that this group isn’t just here to compete.

They’re here to fight.

Season Kick-Off – Getting Started

By Joe Brookes

When I first sat down with Alex Weston after accepting the role at Chelsea FC, there was no illusion about the size of the task ahead. This wasn’t about steady progress or building quietly over time. This was about firefighting — immediately.

The expectations laid out were clear, and in truth, they had to be. 

• Avoid relegation.
• Stabilise the club.
• Generate income.
• Start repairing the damage.

On paper, it sounds manageable. In reality, starting a Championship season 20 points behind everyone else, under a transfer embargo, and with the club drowning in debt… it’s anything but.

The media have predicted us to finish 23rd. I understand why. But internally, we’re setting our standards a lot higher than that.

A Window With No Way In

This summer was always going to be different. For the first time in my career, I went into a transfer window knowing I couldn’t bring a single player in. The ban forced our hand — but if I’m honest, it also sharpened my focus.

Instead of scanning the market, I’ve spent my time studying what we already have:

• First team players who need direction
• Young players who need opportunity
• A squad that, despite everything, still has real quality

The academy has become just as important as the first team overnight.

If this club is going to recover, it won’t be through spending — it will be through development.

Difficult Decisions Outgoing

If we couldn’t bring players in, we had to move some out.

The board set a target of £50 million in player sales, but once I saw the true scale of the debt, I knew that wouldn’t be enough. Not even close.

The frustrating part? Interest was there — but not the right kind.

We received:

• Multiple offers below £20 million for key players like Fofana and Neto
• Even a £34 million bid for Enzo Fernández

All rejected. Not because we don’t need the money — we do — but because stripping the squad of its core now would destroy any chance we have of competing. If my plan works, we’ll need these players next season.

In the end, we found a balance. We moved on ten players and generated £112 million in sales — more than double the target. It was necessary, even if it wasn’t ideal.

Some of the notable departures included:

• Caleb Wiley
• Genesis Antwi
• Lesley Ugochukwu
• Renato Veiga
• Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

Good players. Useful players. But sacrifices had to be made.

Building an Identity on the Pitch

With no new signings, identity becomes everything. From day one, I’ve been clear about how I want this team to play.

We’ve set up in a 4-2-3-1 out of possession and switch to a 4-3-3, but in reality, it’s far more fluid than that. The aim is simple:

• Control the ball. Move it quickly. Hurt teams vertically.
• In possession:
• Short, sharp passing through the lines
• Wide players drifting inside to create a front three
• Full-backs providing width and support

Out of possession:

• Aggressive pressing
• High intensity
• No time for the opposition to settle

It’s demanding. Technically and physically. But if the players buy into it, it gives us a clear identity — something this club has lacked.

Shaping the Core of the Team

Even with the challenges, there’s a strong spine to this squad.

In goal, I’m leaning towards Robert Sánchez — though Filip Jörgensen is pushing him every day.

Defensively, we’ve taken a huge hit losing Levi Colwill for the season. That’s not something you replace easily. But I still believe in the structure we can build around players like Reece James, Wesley Fofana, and Marc Cucurella.

Midfield picks itself in many ways:

• Enzo Fernández
• Moisés Caicedo

That partnership will define us.

Further forward, players like Cole Palmer and Estevão will carry a lot of creative responsibility, with a couple of positions still open for competition.

Out of the eleven, I’d say seven spots are fairly set.

The rest?

They’re there to be earned.

A First Step Into the Future

One of the responsibilities that comes with this role — especially under the model set by the Chelsea Supporters Trust — is developing our own players. I didn’t want to rush that decision. I needed to understand the first team first. But one name kept coming up.

Josh Acheampong. Nineteen years old. A defender who can play across the back line, comfortable at centre-back or on the right. At 6’3”, he gives us a physical presence we don’t have much of.

He’s not the finished product — far from it — but he’s ready to contribute.

This season, he will be our designated academy graduate. And importantly, he will play. Not just minutes here and there — real involvement.

My Expectations — Not the Board’s

Publicly, the goal is survival. Privately, I’m aiming much higher.

If this squad performs to its level, we should be capable of pushing towards 100 points over the season. With the deduction, that brings us back to around 80 — which could be enough for the playoffs. It’s ambitious. Maybe even unrealistic. But I’d rather aim high and fall short than accept mediocrity.

Beyond that:

• We need to keep this squad together
• We need to convince our best players to believe in this project
• And if an opportunity comes in a cup competition… we have to take it

A trophy changes everything. Especially now, with European football already on the table.

The Reality Beneath It All

Not everything revealed to me since taking the job has been encouraging. The debt isn’t £1.1 billion like we first thought. It’s closer to £1.7 billion.

That changes things. It increases the pressure. It shortens timelines. It makes promotion not just important — but essential.

A Strange Twist of Fate

And then, just when things couldn’t get any more surreal…

We received confirmation from UEFA. Despite everything that’s happened domestically, the sanctions imposed don’t apply to them. Which means, because of last season’s 4th place finish…

We will be playing in the Champions League. A Championship club. In Europe’s elite competition.

It’s hard to process, even now.

But it also presents an opportunity — financially, reputationally, and emotionally.

Where We Stand

We begin this season:

• 20 points behind
• Unable to sign players
• Carrying enormous debt

But also:

• With a clear identity
• A committed ownership
• And a squad that still has something to prove

This isn’t a normal season.

It’s a test of everything — character, belief, and resilience.

And as I look ahead to the first game…

I know one thing for certain:

There will be no easy moments. But there is still a chance to build something special.

Rebuilding Chelsea: A Club Reclaimed

There are football stories that feel scripted — dramatic rises, crushing falls, and heroic rebuilds. And then there’s this one. A story not just about results on the pitch, but about identity, ownership, and what a football club truly belongs to.

This is the beginning of a long-term Football Manager 2026 journey — a save built on chaos, consequence, and ultimately, hope.

The Fall of BlueCo

When the consortium led by BlueCo took control of Chelsea FC, it promised innovation, sustainability, and a new era. What followed instead was a period defined by confusion, controversy, and growing disconnect between club and supporters.

Fan unrest didn’t come from nowhere — it built steadily, fuelled by very real issues:

Where It Went Wrong

Aggressive and chaotic transfer strategy

• Excessive spending on long-term contracts with little cohesion
• A bloated squad with no clear identity or pathway

Lack of footballing direction

• Constant managerial turnover disrupting any long-term plan
• No defined style of play or recruitment philosophy

Disconnect with supporters

• Rising ticket concerns and lack of communication
• Fans increasingly feeling like outsiders at their own club

Financial irregularities

• Questionable accounting practices, echoing wider concerns around multi-club ownership models
• Ultimately leading to investigations and sanctions

Regulatory consequences

• Points deductions and sanctions stemming from inaccurate financial submissions
• Loss of sporting integrity and reputation

The breaking point came when governing bodies confirmed irregular findings in financial data submitted by BlueCo — a scandal that would change everything.

The Ultimate Collapse

The consequences were severe — not just symbolic, but devastatingly real:

Relegation to the Championship

20-point deduction to start the season

3-year transfer ban (6 windows)

£1.1 billion in debt inherited

Chelsea, once a dominant force in English and European football, had been reduced to a cautionary tale.

And that’s when the fans stepped in.

The Birth of CFC Ltd

After 18 months of intense negotiations, the Chelsea Supporters Trust achieved what once felt impossible.

They bought the club.

Under a new entity — CFC Ltd (Chelsea Fan Club Limited) — Chelsea would become a fan-owned institution, inspired by the democratic model of clubs like Real Madrid.

The Deal

Purchase price: £3.9 billion

Debt assumed: £1.1 billion

Total valuation: ~£5 billion compromise

It wasn’t cheap. It wasn’t easy. But it meant one thing:

Chelsea Football Club was back in the hands of its people.

A New Era of Leadership

Fan ownership demanded a new structure — one built on accountability and long-term thinking.

Presidential Model

A club president elected every 4 years

Responsible for major decisions and long-term direction

Direct accountability to the fans

The first man to take on that responsibility:

Alex Weston

Age: 48

Profession: Investment Banker

Chelsea supporter since childhood

First match attended: 1988

Season ticket holder since: 1995

Weston represents something modern football often lacks — a leader who understands the club not as an asset, but as a lifelong commitment.

The Problems We Inherit

CFC Ltd doesn’t take over a sleeping giant — it takes over a club in crisis.

Starting Conditions

Championship football with a 20-point deduction

Transfer embargo for 3 full seasons

£1.1 billion debt burden

Damaged reputation across football

A fractured squad built without balance or purpose

This isn’t a rebuild.

This is survival first.

The Vision: A Club Reimagined

Where BlueCo failed, CFC Ltd have drawn a line in the sand. The new ownership isn’t just about fixing problems — it’s about redefining what Chelsea stands for.

Core Principles

Self-Sustaining Transfers

• The club must operate at a transfer profit
• New signings funded through player sales only

Youth at the Heart

Promote at least one “Home Grown At Club” player each season

Player must:

• Have fewer than 5 senior appearances
• Play 10 matches minimum
• Start at least 5 games

Financial Responsibility

• Reduce net debt from £1.1 billion to £0
• Timeline: 12 years (3 presidential cycles)

What This Story Will Be

This isn’t just about winning trophies.

It’s about:

• Rebuilding from the Championship under sanctions
• Trusting youth when transfers aren’t an option
• Balancing financial survival with on-pitch ambition
• Navigating fan expectations in a fan-owned model
• Turning Chelsea back into something authentic

Every decision matters more when there’s no bailout, no shortcuts, and no margin for error.

The Journey Starts Here

Chelsea Football Club has fallen further than anyone thought possible.

Now, under fan ownership, burdened by debt, stripped of resources, and fighting against the odds…

the rebuild begins.

The Appointment: A Manager Built, Not Bought

If the rebirth of Chelsea FC under fan ownership was always going to be symbolic, then the first managerial appointment had to reflect that same philosophy.

No big-name appointment.
 

No expensive rebuild figurehead.
 

No quick fix.

Instead, under the leadership of President Alex Weston, CFC Ltd made a statement:

Chelsea would build from within.

Meet the Manager: Joe Brookes

At first glance, Joe Brookes is not the typical name you’d expect to lead one of England’s biggest clubs — especially in its most fragile moment.

But this isn’t a typical situation.

Profile

Age: 38

Nationality: English

Hometown: Northampton

Playing Career

Earned 18 international caps, scoring 8 goals

Spent the majority of his career in:

• Scotland
• The Netherlands

A technically intelligent forward, known more for movement and understanding of the game than raw physicality

Retired at 30, recognising his level was no longer where it needed to be

That decision — to step away early — says a lot about Brookes.

He understands standards.
And he understands when they aren’t being met.

From Player to Coach

Unlike many former players who drift into coaching, Brookes approached it with intent.

The Coaching Journey

Completed all major coaching qualifications soon after retirement

Took the unconventional route:

Coaching amateur sides in Ireland

Learning the game from the ground up — without spotlight or shortcuts

Built a reputation for:

• Developing young players
• Tactical adaptability
• Strong man-management in resource-limited environments

It wasn’t glamorous.

But it was real football education.

The Chelsea Connection

Brookes’ big break came quietly — and fittingly — inside the club he would one day lead.

Joined Chelsea’s youth setup

Quickly identified as a developer of talent and culture-setter

Promoted to Under-21 manager

At that level, he wasn’t just coaching players — he was:

Bridging the gap between academy and first team

Instilling structure and identity

Working within constraints — something that now defines the first team environment

Why Him?

When Alex Weston and CFC Ltd evaluated their options, the decision wasn’t about reputation.

It was about alignment.

Why Joe Brookes Fits This Project

Understands the club internally

• Already embedded in the academy structure

Proven youth developer

• Critical given the transfer ban

Comfortable working under restrictions

• No reliance on transfers or big budgets

Values-first mentality

• Matches the fan-owned ethos

Hungry, not entitled

• This is an opportunity, not an expectation

In many ways, Brookes represents the same thing as the new ownership:

A reset.

The Risk Factor

Let’s be clear — this is a gamble.

No senior first-team managerial experience

Walking into:

• A 20-point deduction
• A transfer embargo
• A fractured squad
• Enormous expectations
• There will be no bedding-in period.
  No margin for error.

And yet…

That may be exactly why he was chosen.

A Manager for This Moment

This version of Chelsea doesn’t need a superstar manager.

It needs:

• A teacher
• A builder
• A leader who buys into the process

Joe Brookes is not here to deliver instant success.

He’s here to:

• Stabilise
• Develop
• Reconnect the first team with the academy
• Lay the foundations for the next decade

The Beginning of a New Identity

Under Chelsea Supporters Trust ownership, with Alex Weston at the helm and Joe Brookes in the dugout, Chelsea are no longer chasing shortcuts.

They are building something slower.
Something riskier.
Something more meaningful.

And now, with a young, unproven manager leading a broken giant into the Championship…

the real story begins.

Season Five (Part 2): Defying All Expectations

Written by

The Second Half FM

in

My Life From The Dugout

Thanks for taking the time to join the journey, if it’s your first time here check out the journey from the start here. If you’re back to continue the journey a BIG thank you for your support but if you did miss the last update it’s here.

What a whirlwind of a season. It’s hard to believe that less than a year ago I was sitting in my office at Rennes, fresh off back-to-back Ligue 1 titles, Champions League qualification, and a near-undefeated domestic run. Leaving Rennes was never going to be easy, but I knew I had taken them as far as I could. I had a sense that it was time for the next chapter. So when Villarreal came calling in December with the club languishing in 11th, I decided to take on a fresh challenge.

I walked into a club in flux — one clearly underachieving with a squad full of aging stars and lingering doubts. The opening 13 games of their campaign had only produced three wins. The squad was capable, but confidence was shot. Still, what I saw in this group was fight. And after three wins on the bounce before I officially took charge, there was at least a flicker of belief.

From the moment I arrived, I stayed true to what brought me success — the 4-4-1-1 control possession system I’d honed since my Peterborough days. There were no grand tactical overhauls, just a belief in structure, clarity, and accountability. I instilled pressing triggers, disciplined shape, and the same identity that had carried me to the top of French football. The transition wasn’t instant, but it took hold quicker than I expected.

We rallied. We evolved. We surged.

Despite injuries, setbacks, and dips in form, we achieved something many didn’t think was possible in December — finishing third in La Liga. Villarreal, a club that looked destined for a mid-table slog, is now back in the Champions League. And while there were bumps along the way, I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished in just under six months.

Transfer Analysis

We didn’t overhaul the squad, but we made shrewd additions — a blend of youth, potential, and a couple of bets. With just over £20m spent in the winter window, we were operating within limits, but got maximum output.

Top Three Signings:

Jonas Madsen (£10M From FC Midtjylland)

A young Danish midfielder who struggled to adapt at first but showed flashes of why we brought him in. Still raw, but a tidy passer with physicality — a long-term investment.

Oscar Espósito (£5M From Lanús)

A clever signing from Argentina. Despite only playing six games, he averaged a 7.05 rating and showed a directness we lacked. He’ll be a big piece going forward.

Miodrag Miljković (£2.5M From Čukarički)

The Serbian anchorman played 24 games and held his own in tough fixtures. Quietly efficient and tactically disciplined, his debut season was more than promising.

Departures:

Ramón Terrats (£10M To Al-Khaleej)

A big personality to lose, but he wasn’t part of my long-term vision. At £10M, it was smart business.

Santi Comesaña (£9.75M To Rosenborg)

This one was a risk, as he had a role to play. But we had younger options who needed opportunities. A tough call, but necessary for evolution.

Alfonso Pedraza (£2.7M To Leeds)

A long-time servant of the club, but age and injuries had caught up. Moving him on opened minutes for younger fullbacks.

Competition Review

La Liga — 3rd Place (73 points)

When I arrived, we were stuck in 11th, eight points off the top four. My only instruction to the team was simple — let’s go game by game and build momentum. We did more than that.

We collected 50 points in the final 25 games under my watch. Some big results: a 3-0 home win over Real Hispalis, thumping 4-0 victories against Eibar and Bilbao, and the crucial 2-1 win over Getafe late in the run-in.

What impressed me most was our resilience — from matchday 26 onward, we never dropped outside the top four. Even with key absentees, the squad showed steel. Barcelona and Real Madrid were a level above, but for now, we’re comfortably the best of the rest.

Spanish Cup — Quarter Final (Lost to Barcelona)

We had a decent run but ran into the Barcelona juggernaut at Camp Nou. Losing 3-1 was tough to take, especially after battling so hard to get there — including dramatic wins over Granada and Eibar. Still, the cup run offered minutes to fringe players and showed we’re building depth.

Player Performance Summary

We saw standout campaigns from several players, with veterans leading the way and younger stars emerging.

Top 5 Performers

Álex Baena – 7.08 Average Rating, 15 Goals, 11 Assists

The heartbeat of this team. His late runs, goal contributions, and big-game temperament made the difference. He hit double digits in both goals and assists and was named in our internal player of the season vote.

Anel Ahmedhodžić – 7.19 Average Rating

A rock at the back. Commanding in the air, comfortable in possession, and vocal throughout. He made 41 appearances and rarely dipped below 7/10.

Matías Arezo – 20 Goals

Our leading scorer and a menace in the box. He combined power with intelligence, scored big goals in tight matches, and was the spearhead we needed.

Jean-Clair Todibo – 7.05 Average Rating, 5 Goals

A leader in every sense. Added a surprising goal threat from set-pieces too. Rarely beaten in 1v1s, and his form in the second half of the season was vital to our top-four finish.

Reiss Nelson – 7.07 Average Rating, 7 Goals, 8 Assists

The winger played his best football under my guidance. Efficient, hardworking, and technical — he delivered consistency, something he’s struggled with in the past.

Honourable Mentions:

Hugo Larsson – Solid in midfield with a 7.09 rating, chipped in with 3 goals and 5 assists.

Marco Asensio – Veteran presence who contributed 7 goals and 13 assists across 37 games.

Mathías Olivera – Brilliant season at left-back before injury cut his campaign short.

Tariq Lamptey – Energetic and tireless at right back. Had to carry the load during key absences.

Squad Assessment

Strengths:

Creativity and balance in midfield: Baena, Larsson, and Pobega provided variety — goals, steel, and control.

Defensive leadership: Ahmedhodžić and Todibo formed one of the league’s top CB pairings.

Depth on the wings: Reiss Nelson, Asensio, Akhomach — we had rotation and different profiles for different games.

Weaknesses:

Injury concerns: Losing Olivera and Hedl at crunch time nearly derailed our run-in. Depth at fullback and GK is still light.

Lack of elite striker options: Arezo was great, but we need another forward with a different skill set to challenge or complement him.

Aging rotation options: Ceballos, Danjuma, and Živković are good pros, but next season we need to replace or phase them out.

Strategic Recommendations For 28/29

Reinforce the left side of defense: Olivera is great, but his injury history means we need a reliable understudy or rotational starter.

Buy a goalkeeper: Hedl is solid, but we can’t afford to risk another run-in without dependable backup. A ball-playing GK would elevate our build-up play.

Sign a striker with pace: Someone who can stretch defenses and offer something different from Arezo. We rely too heavily on Baena and Reiss for creative spark — we need a chaos-maker up top.

Move on the aging depth: If we’re serious about competing on all fronts, we can’t carry players who only offer leadership. Squad evolution is crucial.

Keep faith in the system: The 4-4-1-1 works. We’ve proven it in England, France, and now Spain. Don’t fix what isn’t broken — just polish it.

Final Thoughts

This season felt like a turning point in my career. I proved I could walk into a club mid-season and implement my ideas quickly. I took a mid-table Villarreal side and dragged them into the Champions League spots. The feedback from the board and fans has been overwhelmingly positive — but I won’t pretend there weren’t moments of strain.

The big headline came when, after just 148 days in charge, I applied for the Liverpool job. That might raise eyebrows, but I’ve always said I’ll be honest about my ambitions. I’m not looking to leave Villarreal immediately — I love it here. But when a club of Liverpool’s stature becomes available, you have to look. It’s not disloyalty — it’s progression.

Whatever happens this summer, I’m proud of what we’ve built here. This team is exciting, brave, and bought into my vision. Whether I’m here next season or somewhere else, I’ll never forget the 27/28 season — the season we proved everyone wrong.

Season Five (Part 1): Goodbye Rennes

Written by

The Second Half FM

in

My Life From The Dugout

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The last time I wrote one of these, I had just completed a season without losing a single league game. We’d lifted back-to-back Ligue 1 titles at Stade Rennais, competed in the Champions League knockout rounds, and been declared untouchable by a board who were in the process of building a brand-new stadium in my honour.

Now I sit here, not at the pinnacle of a dominant club, but preparing for my first game in charge of a Villarreal side sitting mid-table, five months into a messy campaign, trying to bring direction to a squad that has lost its way.

And yet, I’ve never been more excited.

Leaving Rennes

This summer, after Rennes’ historic invincible season, I decided the time was right to push for the next step. I applied for one job. Just one. The big one: Inter Milan.

The Blu-Neri had just finished 4th in Serie A and sacked Simone Inzaghi after two consecutive trophyless seasons. With £180 million in transfer funds and one of the strongest squads in Europe, it was the kind of project I felt ready for. Honestly, I believed it was a perfect fit.

But football doesn’t always hand you what you’ve earned.

Despite my record—undefeated Ligue 1 champion, two-time title winner, Champions League contender—I didn’t get the job. The board went in a different direction. I was disappointed. Not bitter. But it made me reassess where I was.

That’s when I knew my time at Stade Rennais was done.

I went into the boardroom and told them, face to face, that I was leaving. It wasn’t about money. It wasn’t about status. It was about timing. I’d taken the club as far as I could. We had completed something historic together, and I wasn’t going to let things stagnate or unravel. They offered me a multi-year extension. They tried. But I knew.

And when you know, you know.

Where I See Myself Next

After leaving, I made the conscious decision to take a step back. Not out of the game entirely, but from the intensity. I’d been in management non-stop since I was 30. At 34, I’d achieved more than many ever do. But I also knew I had more to give. I just needed the right club.

That’s when I created my own criteria.

My next job needed to be:

A Champions League-calibre club, or at least one with the infrastructure and ambition to get there quickly.

Based in Germany, Spain, Italy, or England—the top four leagues in Europe.

A team with a top-four ceiling and room to grow.

That might sound arrogant to some. But I’ve earned the right to be selective. I knocked PSG off their perch in France. I took a club with no title history and made them champions twice—once undefeated. I’ve beaten elite clubs with less money, less reputation, and a fraction of the resources.

Now, I wanted to test myself at a club with the pedigree and ambition to match my vision.

Heading To Spain

Months passed. I stayed patient. I watched football again as a fan. I spent time with my family. I kept my eye on the market.

Then in December, Villarreal came calling.

At the time, they were languishing in 11th place in La Liga. They had won just 3 of their first 13 games. The squad was ageing. The atmosphere had turned. But beneath the surface, I saw something. A core group of players worth building around. A club with Champions League history and a fan base starving for clarity.

I met with the board. We talked about the identity I wanted to bring. The tactical philosophy. The development pathway. They talked about a modest but manageable transfer budget, a desire to restructure the squad with youth, and full control over the sporting side.

It wasn’t Inter Milan. It wasn’t a Champions League club. But it was real. And most importantly—it was mine to build.

So I signed.

Now, I’m preparing to take charge of my first game at Villarreal. The club has just won three games on the bounce—all under interim guidance. That momentum is something I can work with.

And though I haven’t managed a minute yet, I’ve watched every game from the past two months twice. I’ve sat in on training. I’ve spoken to every player in one-on-one meetings. And I’ve already begun shaping what this team will become.

The tactical setup will not change. This club is going to adopt the system that I’ve built and refined since Peterborough. The 4-4-1-1 that flexes into a 4-2-3-1 in possession. High-tempo pressing, organised transitions, vertical build-up, wide creativity, and structure in the middle third.

It won us titles at Rennes. It’s going to define this rebuild at Villarreal.

Foundations Are There But Work Needed

Let’s be honest—the squad needs work.

There are too many players on the wrong side of 30, and too many roles being filled by players who are past their best. But there’s also a core that I can build around. Three players, in particular, have impressed me before I’ve even taken charge:

Anel Ahmedhodžić – A physically dominant, ball-playing centre-back with leadership qualities and a sharp reading of the game. One of the few defenders in the squad who hasn’t lost a yard.

Mathías Olivera – Still a highly effective left-back with strong defensive instincts and relentless stamina. I love full-backs who press high and recover deep. He fits that mold.

Hugo Larsson – Possibly the most exciting player in the team. A dynamic midfielder who breaks lines, presses relentlessly, and has an eye for goal. He’s got shades of Pavlović in him.

Those three are the foundation. Add to that some promising youth prospects from the B team, and we’ve got a platform.

The board have allocated a reasonable transfer budget. It won’t rival the giants, but it’s enough to bring in 3-4 impact players in January, and to move on some of the older faces who are no longer contributing at the highest level.

Targets are already identified. We’ll focus on:

A young, quick centre-forward who fits our pressing system.

A versatile centre-back under 24.

A dynamic attacking midfielder capable of unlocking tight defences.

And possibly, a new goalkeeper if performances don’t improve quickly.

The Process

This job won’t be about instant trophies. It’s about rebuilding with a plan. Villarreal have fallen behind in the past two seasons. They’ve watched other Spanish clubs invest, evolve, and modernise—while they stagnated.

Now it’s time to shift that trajectory.

My goals for the second half of the season are clear:

Establish our tactical identity.

Finish top eight, if possible. But above all, build momentum.

Create a platform for next year—where we target top four, Europe, and silverware.

Final Thoughts

On a personal note, this feels like a new chapter—maybe the most exciting one yet. I’ve tested myself in England. I’ve built something unforgettable in France. Now, I take my methods to Spain—into a league filled with technical brilliance, tactical nuance, and pressure.

I know some people are watching to see if I can succeed outside Rennes. I understand that. But the truth is—I’m ready. More ready than I’ve ever been.

This job isn’t just a stepping stone. It’s an opportunity to create something lasting.

I’ve been out of the dugout for a few months now, and I’ve missed it. I’ve missed the training ground, the analysis, the post-match reflections, the chance to mould a group.

Now I get to do it all again—at a club with history, expectation, and opportunity.

I haven’t managed a game yet—but I’m ready.

Let’s go.

— Lucas Halberg

Manager, Villarreal CF

Season Four (Part 3): The Invincibles

Written by

The Second Half FM

in

My Life From The Dugout

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The funny thing about football is that no matter how much you win, you never feel done.

You’d think going an entire Ligue 1 season undefeated—34 games, 28 wins, 6 draws, 0 losses—would bring some sense of finality. A kind of closure. Instead, what I feel is something closer to momentum. We’re not at the end of something. We’re in the middle of something extraordinary.

This season, Stade Rennais wrote its name into history. Again. We retained the league title with a level of consistency and resilience I’ve never experienced. We fought in Europe. We held our own against the very best. But the moments that will stay with me forever weren’t always the flashy ones. They were the quiet decisions, the personal battles, the dressing room disputes, the pressure of choice when no answer was perfect.

This season was personal. For the club, for the players—and for me.

Transfer Reflections: Precision Over Overhaul

The summer wasn’t about fireworks. It was about balance. Champions League football meant we had to be smart—not just in who we brought in, but who we let go.

Top 3 Incomings:

Gastón Rodríguez (Loan From Unión) –

This was one of the best signings I have ever made, it has to be up there with the free signing of Khayon Edwards back when I was at Peterborough. At just 18, Rodríguez played nearly every minute as our right full back, he managed 4 assists and 1 goal. He has impressed me that much that I have agreed to make him a permanent signing going forward next season.

Jef Godelaine – £6.5M From Antwerp

An inspired piece of business. A sharp, instinctive striker who bagged 8 goals in just 13 appearances, he offered a much-needed alternative to Kalimuendo. His debut brace in the Champions League against Benfica turned heads.

Balázs Vécsei – £14.5M From West Brom

Quiet but reliable. A central defender who gave us control when Østigård or Theate needed rest. Particularly strong in aerial duels—won 64%—and tactically aware.

Top 3 Outgoings:

Gonzalo Montiel – £14M To Al-Gharafa

Montiel had been solid, but age and injuries caught up. Letting him go wasn’t easy, but it allowed Gastón Rodríguez and Diallo to grow into the role.

No Baptiste Santamaria – £17.5M To Al-Wehda

Another respected servant who didn’t fit the tactical future. His leadership was missed, but we’ve evolved.

Jordan James – £3M To Troyes

Deserved more minutes, but competition was too fierce. We respected his desire for regular football.

Competition-By-Competition Review

Ligue 1 Uber Eats – Champions (90 pts)

Let’s be honest—this was historic.

To go unbeaten across an entire season is rare at any level. To do it in France, against the might of PSG, Marseille, Lyon, and Monaco? Almost unthinkable.

We:

• Scored 78 goals
• Conceded just 22
• Kept 24 clean sheets
• Never trailed in the table after October

Key matches defined our run:

• 4–0 vs OM (Nov) – A ruthless demolition at home.
• 3–0 vs Lorient (April) – Kalimuendo’s second-half hat-trick was a masterclass
• 3–1 vs Lyon (Final day) – Fitting to close out the season with confidence.

Even when we had blips—like a late draw vs Toulouse or a sluggish 0–0 with Metz—we didn’t break. That resilience is a credit to the squad’s mentality.

UEFA Champions League – Round of 16

It was our return to Europe’s top table. I’d waited for this my whole career.

We finished 3rd in the league phase:

• Wins vs PSV, Benfica, Midtjylland, Fenerbahçe
• Draw vs Chelsea (0–0) at home
• Loss at Feyenoord (0–1)

Knock-out play-off:

Beat Athletic Bilbao 3–1 on aggregate. Tight in Spain, commanding at Roazhon Park.

Then came the test: Paris Saint-Germain. We drew 0–0 at home. I was proud of that. Disciplined, well-drilled. In Paris, we fought. Gouiri even gave us hope. But a 2–1 defeat knocked us out. Fine margins at the top.

I won’t call it failure—it was a debut campaign to be proud of.

Coupe de France – Quarter Final Exit

We beat:

• EA Guingamp (2–0)
• Auxerre (1–0)
• Lorient (2–0)

But in the quarter-final, we drew Marseille away. Zoran Alilović opened the scoring, but they pegged us back, and penalties decided it. A tough exit, but understandable.

Trophée des Champions – Winners

We opened the season with a 2–1 win vs PSG. Østigård’s header and Gouiri’s volley set the tone.

Player Performance Review

Top 5 Players:

Mesfin Tesfaye (7.33 Avg, 9 Assists, 4 Goals)

At just 19, he was electric. Our best wide outlet, and probably our most creative player with Babadi sidelined. His work rate and fearlessness made him undroppable.

Dennis Seimen (7.18 Avg, 24 Clean Sheets)

His shot-stopping is elite. Seimen is not just a goalkeeper—he’s a difference-maker. At 22, he already plays like a veteran.

Ludovic Blas (7.22 Avg, 10 Goals, 7 Assists)

The heartbeat of our midfield. Never flashy, but always effective. He stepped up in Europe when we needed someone to dictate pace.

Zoran Alilović (7.09 Avg, 10 Goals, 22 Assists)

Quietly became our assist machine. His set-pieces were deadly. 22 assists speaks for itself.

Arnaud Kalimuendo (19 Goals In All Comps)

Our finisher. Always delivers. His consistency has been key in games where chances are few.

Honourable Mentions:

Isaac Babadi – Despite injuries, 5 goals and 10 assists.

Arthur Theate – Led the defence with aggression and control.

Aleksandar Pavlović – Orchestrated transitions with intelligence.

Squad Dynamics: Strengths And Fault Lines

Strengths:

Balance – We have youth, experience, and depth in almost every position.

Identity – Our 4-4-1-1 pressing system is cohesive and understood.

Resilience – From Babadi’s toe break to fixture congestion, we always found a way.

Weaknesses:

Contract disputes – Delprato, Truffert, and Babadi have pushed for new deals. I understand them, but we’re not in a position to offer massive increases. It’s an awkward dance—especially with Babadi’s status.

Omari’s frustration – Warmed Omari has voiced his unhappiness over playing time. I’ve tried to rotate him, but in truth, he’s not at the level needed to start ahead of Østigård or Theate.

Fatigue – Our intensity comes at a cost. A few matches in spring—like the draw with Nice or the late-season stalemate with Metz—showed tired legs.

Club Developments And Off-Pitch Highlights

A few big milestones worth mentioning:

New Stadium Announced

The board officially confirmed plans for a brand-new stadium. Capacity, location, and timeline are still under wraps, but the symbolism is clear: Rennes is not content being a mid-table side in history. We are building something to last.

Youth Dominance

Our U19s won the French National League. That’s not just a fluke—it’s a sign of our structure. We’ve got at least four players in that group I’d consider for preseason call-ups.

Strategic Outlook & My Future

Let’s not avoid it.

My contract ends this summer.

I’ve had talks. The board want me to stay. And I want to stay… maybe. But I’ve also got to be real with myself. I’m 35. I’ve just gone undefeated in Ligue 1, retained a title, and navigated the Champions League knockout stages on debut. This might be the time to take the leap.

I haven’t engaged with any clubs yet. But I know a few jobs are about to become available—jobs that could define a career.

The only promise I can make is this: I’ll make the decision for football reasons. Not for money. Not for ego. I love this club. I feel comfortable here. But I won’t stop myself from dreaming bigger just because comfort feels safe.

Wherever I end up—whether here in Rennes or elsewhere—I’ll be proud of what we’ve done.

And I’ll never forget this season. Because undefeated campaigns don’t come around often.

But belief? Belief should never leave.