Rio Ferdinand is joined by Joleon Lescott, an England coach and former professional footballer, to dissect the identity crisis at Manchester United under Erik Ten Hag. They debate the pressing issues affecting the squad’s performance and compare it to Mikel Arteta’s early days at Arsenal. Joleon shares his excitement for young talent Curtis Jones and discusses the rising stars in English football, including Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden, igniting a lively conversation about who holds the title of the best young attacker.
The podcast highlights the prevailing frustration among Manchester United fans regarding the lack of a clear tactical framework and identity under Erik Ten Hag.
The discussion contrasts the successes of rising talents like Cole Palmer and Curtis Jones with the need for effective coaching that leverages players' strengths.
The conversation emphasizes that a positive player mindset is essential for team success, impacting overall performance and morale within Manchester United.
Deep dives
Understanding B2B Marketing
B2B marketing has a distinct set of strategies and goals compared to B2C marketing, primarily focusing on building relationships and delivering value to other businesses. The ability to reach specific professional audiences is enhanced through platforms like LinkedIn, which offers targeted advertising that can significantly improve return on ad spend (ROAS). The conversation emphasizes that while not everyone grasps the nuances of B2B marketing, it remains critical for organizations seeking to establish a strong foothold in their respective industries. An example highlighted is the use of analytics to measure success, which can aid marketers in optimizing campaigns effectively.
Current State of Manchester United
The discussion reveals significant frustrations among Manchester United fans regarding the team's performance and the style of play under their current management. There are concerns around the lack of a clear tactical framework, leading to inconsistent performances reflected in various match results. For instance, the team has been criticized for its inability to maintain composure once going behind in games, often leading to capitulations that drain players' confidence. The need for progress and consistency, especially in comparison to rival teams, underscores the urgency for a defined identity and style at Manchester United.
Coaching and Player Development
Effective coaching hinges on recognizing players' strengths and adapting strategies to leverage those attributes on the pitch. Coaches must foster an environment where players feel empowered to showcase their abilities while adhering to a cohesive team strategy. Specific examples from the conversation highlight how players like Cole Palmer excel when given the freedom to operate in roles that suit their skill sets, ultimately benefiting the team's overall performance. This approach contrasts with the more rigid tactics often employed that may not suit every player, leading to inefficiencies.
The Evolution of Team Dynamics
The dialogue touches on the evolving nature of team dynamics, especially as younger players begin to take prominent roles. As shown with talents such as Curtis Jones and Anthony Gordon, modern players are increasingly expected to play multiple roles, demanding versatility in their skill sets. Insights into the experiences of these burgeoning players showcase how adaptability and understanding different tactical demands will be essential for their success in competitive environments. As teams continue to change their structures and philosophies, fostering this level of development is crucial for upcoming talents.
The Importance of Player Attitude
The discussion emphasizes the critical role of player mindset and attitude in achieving success within a team framework. Players like Cole Palmer and others demonstrate the impact of a confident and assertive demeanor on the pitch, which can galvanize team performance. Comments made during the conversation stress that attitude often reflects broader issues, such as team cohesiveness and management effectiveness. Ultimately, a positive mindset not only enhances individual performance but also uplifts collective morale within the squad, forming a foundation for future achievements.
Rio and Joel are joined by England coach Joleon Lescott to discuss the lack of identity with Erik Ten Hag’s Manchester United squad. The trio explore the structural issues with the team, identify what needs to be improved and compare the manager’s reign to the early stages of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal career.
Joleon reveals the player he’s most excited to see perform on the senior international stage for England and discusses the under rated ability of Curtis Jones who played alongside Cole Palmer for the Under 21s. The Chelsea forward’s performance prompts a debate about who is the best English attacking talent where the merits of Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden and Palmer are compared and analysed.