We know the players that both Bayern Munich and Chelsea can field at the Allianz Arena for the Champions League final. The likes of Franck Ribery, Juan Mata, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Didier Drogba are each going to be absolutely key to their teams. But the players aren't the only ones with an influence on how the match will play out - both sides' managers are going to have to answer some important questions. Get them wrong, and they're in trouble.
Phil Pierson over at SB Nation Bayern Munich blog Bavarian Football Works is wondering whether Jupp Heynckes has enough courage to make the bold calls that might be necessary to win the European Cup (he's less worried about Roberto di Matteo for being too tentative, for obvious reasons). Could his risk-aversion lead to Heynckes making a major error? Will it be the most daring manager who wins the day?
[Both Heynckes and di Matteo] are going to have some huge decisions to make. Heynckes has to decide with Daniel van Buyten is fit enough to play; and if so, should he start over Tymoschuk; and if so, should Tymo move to CDM or hit the bench. Given his propensity to avoid bold, stunning moves, you'd guess bringing on van Buyten would be a little much for Heynckes. di Matteo, meanwhile, has to replace Ramires at RW (either Sturridge or Torres might get the call). He also has to sweat out fitness reports from Malouda, Cahill, and David Luiz - if any of them can't go, he might be called into making a big decision on Saturday morning.
In both cases, these managers are known more for being competent man-managers who get their talented line-ups on the field and just avoid any errors. But at some point, a failure to make a bold move when one is required can be an error as well. If this turns into a battle between two tentative guys trying to avoid mistakes, will the first one to making a daring move come up big?
That, or the most daring manager will do something silly and lose. I mean, it could go either way.
There are 0 Comments. Add Yours.
Shortcuts to mastering the comment thread. Use wisely.
C - Next Comment
X - Mark as Read
R - Reply
Z - Mark Read & Next
Shift + C - Previous
Shift + A - Mark All Read
Comment Settings
Live comment alert: Hide it!
Comments for this post are closed.