Baltimore World Cup Soccer @ Slainte Pub

After the 2-1 loss at Old Trafford, all eyes turned to Wenger and Arsenal’s front office… Is it the end of an Era?

Wenger has now been Arsenal Manager since 1996 for a total of 881 games and 502 wins. This season, and after a heavy loss 8-2 in August against the same Man United, Arsenal does not seduce. Van Persie and Chamberlain are probably the only hopes to “save” the season. Arsenal is now 5th, 10 points behind the Spurs who are sitting on the 3rd place of the table. Wenger’s philosophy is to stay away from becoming a new Man City by spending billions during the transfer window. He believes in Youth which made him become one of the best Manager of the World the past decade. However, it seems now that the recipe does not work anymore…. Talents are leaving Arsenal who ended signing veteran Henry back during the MLS break. The situation is not catastrophic… 5th in EPL, still running in Champions League and FA Cup. But Arsenal has been title-less since now 2005!

The next couple weeks will probably decide for Wenger’s future… A tough FA Cup match up vs Villa, three “easy” EPL matches until the Spurs Derby and AC Milan in Champions League.
I always respected his philosophy regarding the recruitment but a 7th year without a title will probably end Wenger’s love story with the Gunners.

Is it necessary to remind you how the 98 winner won its ticket to South Africa? I don’t think so…
It has to be clarified that the controversy hit France itself. Fans lost the few confidence they had in their National team, starting booing and claiming Domenech’s head… After couple months of swimming in trouble waters, Domenech delivered a 23 roster with couple surprises: No Vieira, no Nasri, no Benzema (no Cabaye, no Rami, no Landreau

The biggest surprise, which is actually not exactly one, is Henry who will polish the bench in South Africa! That might save the atmosphere and avoid the pressure the attendance will put on France #12.

So far, Domenech will go with a 4-3-3

LLoris

Sagna – Evra (c) – Gallas – Abidal

Gourcuff – Toulalan – Malouda

Govou – Anelka – Ribery

That team should face China on Friday, June 4th in Reunion Island… Some players on the bench should have some good play time as Gignac, Cisse and Diaby and will for sure play a key roll on the field!

Now, France has to step up and prove the World they deserve their spot and Football will be even better!

I’ll see you all at the pub!

Allez les Bleus !