sandman wrote:I understand exactly what we are up against, I'm glad you're not head of strategic planning for us because your lack of ambition is pathetic.
You obviously havent read what I wrote properly, I would be happy not to win the league but do well in the champions league as that is the next big goal, I am not necessarily saying we need to win it straight away but as that is the next big goal we should be aiming to win it it within the next 5 years or else what is the point in being in it. If we are knocked out early then we have one less competition to focus on and therefore should be going all out to win the Premier League.
Honestly, I would love to win a champions league in the next 5 years but 10 years would be more realistic. For City to sustainably compete with the big boys for decades to come; just as much (if not more) progress needs to be made off the field. That is the nature of the modern game. As long as we are up there and competing for honors every year we are good for our on the pitch performance.
Off the pitch, we need to:
1. Develop a better global presence and fan base to finance City for years to come. The Sheik isn't going to be writing personal checks for the next 10 years.
2. See academy talent actually break into the first team and hopefully have a home grown player become a "world class" performer. Future success will always be a gamble if our squad is determined by our ability to purchase in the market.
3. Instill a common culture in every employee at City. This doesn't have to be the stereotypical "win at all costs" rag culture that most people associate with success. It should be a more inherently Manchester City like culture that includes winning on the pitch, but also a strong "giving back to the community" focus and all inclusive, welcoming approach to everyone. This is probably where we have had the most success to date, but it won't be complete until every player join City knows how they must act before they join us (just like players know the culture of the rags, Madrid, Barca, or other top teams).
4. Establish a strong lobbying presence in the FA, UEFA, and FIFA. While we can always cry foul (and rightfully so) at the undue influence of the current G14, if we are going to compete we need to join/beat them at their own game. If we are successful in this, it will no longer be City being singled out by the governing bodies as ruining football, but praised as a model for positive development and for our efforts in the community. If we are smart, we will use our lobbying presence to make football more equitable for all teams involved. Not only will this boost our "all-inclusive" image, but it will hopefully create more competition for our rivals to deal with.
So like I said, it's all about perspective. You can measure trajectory by a single metric (trophies), or you can see the larger picture and all the factors that go into being able to sustainably win trophies over an extended period of time.
