How must Madrid president Florentino Perez feel now that the 2 players he forced out the door last summer have led their new teams to the Champions League semis while his new superstars are watching the games on their 80 inch lcd tv’s at home with him? Arjen Robben’s stunning goal put Bayern through past Manchester United on away goals. Wesley Sneijder’s magic and free kick have led Inter Milan through. How will it look if one of these players end up lifting the cup in the Santiago Bernabeu on May 22nd?
The new Galactico era began last summer when Florentino Perez took over the helm of the Real Madrid presidency for the second time. We all know his slogan of Zidanes and Pavones (superstars and home grown players). Well, his dictatorship led the club to sell both Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben because they weren’t exactly players with market appeal who sold jerseys and fit the profile he looks for. Worse of all, new coach Manuel Pellegrini clearly expressed that he wanted both players to remain on the team and said they were critical in his plans for the squad this season. Perez runs the show here and ignored his new coach’s request.
Can you imagine Robben in the 4-2-3-1 system running wild at defenses in Granero’s place? Sneijder would surely have been a great alternative to Kaka who has missed a ton of games with fitness problems. Quality like that can’t be replaced….and to think they were sold for a total of 40 million euros. With that money, Benzema was brought in. BAD BUSINESS!
Our preview at 3four3 on Real Madrid’s outlook for the season was spot on. Many were fooled with the spending on Cristiano and Kaka. Great players! But, Florentino’s policy is simply a recipe for disaster. It’s time for a new philosophy for such a magnificent club. Sporting results need to be priority #1 if they are to get back to the elite and avoid embarrassing round of 16 exits for a 7th straight season. The coach needs to be given 100% control on player personnel.
Much of the Madrid press is calling for Pellegrini’s head and campaigning for Mourinho to take over this summer. Do you think the “special one” will be interested in taking a job where he will be dictated to? Roman Abromovich all over again? Only if Florentino gives up all authority! Jose would not tolerate a Robben or Sneijder to be given away against his wishes.
For now, cheers to Robben and Sneijder who are having a laugh at Florentino’s expense!
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