Especially since they seemed to mostly be playing kids. But one thing you can always say about Liverpool, they are fantastic at plug-and-playing academy kids for cup matches and friendlies.
It’s true - part of it was having his hand forced by the Euros and Copa, of course, but I think some people forget that he is still learning and adapting. Remember the first season when everyone complained that he made subs like 10 minutes too late? Inshallah we get some easy cup draws and we field an academy team.
Sometimes, his subs are still too late, but I’ll settle for the 64th minute subs. You’re right though, he is learning and finding the balance and ensuring success is worth losing a few million from a generation of our youngsters.
Also, there’s not much we can do about Chelsea and United being Chelsea and United. This is always how they’ve operated, and they’re not going to start. Sales from their academy is pretty much the only thing bringing in revenue for Chelsea, and United are convinced that anyone they buy can immediately become a Ballon D’or winner.
Especially since they seemed to mostly be playing kids. But one thing you can always say about Liverpool, they are fantastic at plug-and-playing academy kids for cup matches and friendlies.
Credit where it’s due, it feels like Arteta was really trying to give the kids opportunities this year.
It’s true - part of it was having his hand forced by the Euros and Copa, of course, but I think some people forget that he is still learning and adapting. Remember the first season when everyone complained that he made subs like 10 minutes too late? Inshallah we get some easy cup draws and we field an academy team.
Sometimes, his subs are still too late, but I’ll settle for the 64th minute subs. You’re right though, he is learning and finding the balance and ensuring success is worth losing a few million from a generation of our youngsters.
Also, there’s not much we can do about Chelsea and United being Chelsea and United. This is always how they’ve operated, and they’re not going to start. Sales from their academy is pretty much the only thing bringing in revenue for Chelsea, and United are convinced that anyone they buy can immediately become a Ballon D’or winner.