In the world of football, Premier League managers are not only judged for their results on the pitch but also for the language they use off it. This language helps shape their image among supporters, players, and the media. Let’s explore the words and expressions favored by Premier League managers, as well as their meaning and impact.
Mikel Arteta and the Importance of Versatility
Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal, regularly invokes terms such as “versatility”, “adaptability”, and “unpredictability”. These words reflect his vision for the team. Arteta emphasizes the need for his players to adapt to different situations on the pitch, as evidenced by the integration of players capable of performing in multiple positions.
His use of these terms has intensified with the arrival of new players, highlighting their ability to contribute to the evolution of the team. By focusing on collective “adaptability”, he aims to forge a team capable of adjusting against various opponents.
Unai Emery and Expectation
Unai Emery, at the helm of Aston Villa, frequently uses the word “demanding” to describe his expectations of his players. For Emery, this can mean that the tactical structure of the team must be respected or that the challenges posed by the opponent require equal attention.
This constant insistence on expectation helps define the work culture within the club and underscores the importance of individual and collective performances to achieve objectives.
Thomas Frank and the Balance of Humility
Thomas Frank, manager of Brentford, often employs the phrase “confident yet humble”. This phrase summarizes the team spirit he wishes to instill: celebrating successes while remaining aware of the club’s origins.
Frank uses this formula to encourage his players to fight for victories while keeping their feet on the ground. The club’s recent years of progress bear testimony to this philosophy.
Andoni Iraola and Taking Risks
At Bournemouth, Andoni Iraola refers to the “opportunities” his team creates, highlighting the “high-risk, high-reward” nature of his playing style. Often, he speaks of key moments during matches, where his team has shown “determination” and “intensity”.
This approach allows the manager to emphasize his team’s vitality and combativeness while identifying necessary adjustments after defeats.
Enzo Maresca and Team Identity
Enzo Maresca, manager of Chelsea, frequently uses the term “identity”, to signify how he wants his team to be structured on the pitch. He seeks to establish a coherent “identity”, regardless of the player aligned.
This desire to develop a strong identity is evident in Maresca’s speeches during press conferences, signaling his objective to make the team identifiable by its playing style.
Conclusion
Premier League managers use specific language to convey their vision and create a team culture. Terms like “expectation”, “adaptability”, and “identity” do not merely describe playing philosophies, but also play an essential role in how they are perceived by the public. These strong words and their deeply rooted meanings illustrate how language is a powerful tool in modern football.
Source : www.nytimes.com