I can just hear it, We're not Real Madrid, we're not Barcelona, we are fulham ffc, we've got Arbeloa, YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST.🤣
Quote from: South Coast White on June 11, 2026, 08:52:27 AMI can just hear it, We're not Real Madrid, we're not Barcelona, we are fulham ffc, we've got Arbeloa, YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST.🤣
Very good
Arbeloa had an excellent playing career but his coaching career less so.
The fact he ended up coaching Real Madrid was as much about him being an ex player and being in the right place at the right time IMO.
He really has little experience in the mens game and would be a big risk.
Real Madrid (youth)2025–2026
Real Madrid B 25-26
Real Madrid Jan 26- left at end of season.
However this is Fulham and we aren't getting Jürgen Klopp. He showed promise with the youth team and the reserves. Let's see, if he gets the job he gets my backing. Areola didn't have a huge CV either. I certainly don't want Ange or Parker.
Might aswell hire Callum MacFarlane
Will support the next man in.
I mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
Quote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
Well I guess that applies to anyone who comes in. These best in the world could come in and fail and the worst could come in and succeed, who knows?.
Quote from: alfie on June 11, 2026, 12:15:50 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
Well I guess that applies to anyone who comes in. These best in the world could come in and fail and the worst could come in and succeed, who knows?.
No, there's the bit in the middle which is a continuation of the same mid table stuff. Which obviously could happen, but looking at his CV, I just can;t see anything other than a serious drop in what we've become accustomed to.
The problem with these big clubs is many of their players have massive egos so when a manager without a track record comes in they think their better than that and show the manager no respect. That's why Madrid have gone back to Mourinho. If he had done bad at a medium size club I would be more concerned.
Quote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
Quote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
A bit like Areola and Glasner
Quote from: KJS on June 11, 2026, 01:09:59 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
Quote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
A bit like Areola and Glasner
Not really sure I'm appreciating these comparisons. Both have much better CV's than Arbeloa. Unless I'm missing something.
I think it'll be Hugo Oliveira
Quote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 01:25:37 PMQuote from: KJS on June 11, 2026, 01:09:59 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
Quote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
A bit like Areola and Glasner
Not really sure I'm appreciating these comparisons. Both have much better CV's than Arbeloa. Unless I'm missing something.
You can't get a better feat on a CV in football than manager of Real Madrid, much better than being manager of Rayo (Iraola) which was definitely a gamble.
Quote from: sunburywhite on June 11, 2026, 05:40:20 PMQuote from: The blahblahman on June 11, 2026, 02:27:12 PMI think it'll be Hugo Oliveira
May as well be Basil D'
Might as well be me. I love Fulham and would work for less than 1m/year.
It looks like he did very well with the youth team at Real Madrid. After a little research I think he won the league title with the under 14s in 20/21, the domestic treble with the under 19s in 22/23, and the league title with the under 19s in 24/25. He was then promoted to their B team and then to the first team. It seems the fans liked him from what I've read. I think it's one of those ones that could go one way or the other - it would be an interesting appointment for sure.
Steer him well clear of the Hammy End bogs if a tour of the stadium is part of the interview.
You can debate the relevance to his managerial ability, but he had a phenomenal playing career as well, winning La Liga, the Champions League twice, the World Cup, the Euros twice. He would definitely be an exciting appointment, albeit experimental. It could all end in tears or it could actually take us to the next level.
Real Madrid, Benfica, and Fulham swapping managers was not on my bingo card this summer
Quote from: @jolslover on June 11, 2026, 05:32:47 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 01:25:37 PMQuote from: KJS on June 11, 2026, 01:09:59 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
Quote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
A bit like Areola and Glasner
Not really sure I'm appreciating these comparisons. Both have much better CV's than Arbeloa. Unless I'm missing something.
You can't get a better feat on a CV in football than manager of Real Madrid, much better than being manager of Rayo (Iraola) which was definitely a gamble.
Sure, if almost all context is ignored, I would agree with you. Hopefully TK does more than 2 minutes of research, so that any approach is not based solely on such an assessment.
First Manager in the Yellow Pages is that how the Khans work.
I thought Claudio Ranieri was a safe pair of hands to put in charge but his Win percentage for us,?, 5pà of just under 18% was woeful. Marco's career in England was three clubs in under three years but look how that turned out.
While Arbeloa's career and experience, good and bad as a player and a manager would I think be an asset.
Arbeloa will bring in lots of young Spanish talent for us, finally something exciting to watch too
Quote from: KentFulham on June 11, 2026, 08:06:20 PMArbeloa will bring in lots of young Spanish talent for us, finally something exciting to watch too
If they let him!
Quote from: KentFulham on June 11, 2026, 08:06:20 PMArbeloa will bring in lots of young Spanish talent for us, finally something exciting to watch too
Mbappe in loan when he falls out with jose
Quote from: Stoneleigh Loyalist on June 11, 2026, 09:28:51 PMQuote from: KentFulham on June 11, 2026, 08:06:20 PMArbeloa will bring in lots of young Spanish talent for us, finally something exciting to watch too
If they let him!
It's been Marco who hasn't wanted/played young players.
It would be a very risky appointment. It has a potential of going either way.
Quote from: SerbianLad on June 12, 2026, 06:29:46 AMIt would be a very risky appointment. It has a potential of going either way.
Time the club took some risk, its been very vanilla under Silva
Makes me very nervous this appointment. So little experience (no, being manager of Real Madrid for 5 mediocre months doesn't make him qualified).
Only positive I see is that hopefully he'll establish a proper pathway for the academy. But would much rather Poch!
Quote from: AJW48361 on June 11, 2026, 07:52:14 PMFirst Manager in the Yellow Pages is that how the Khans work.
Aaron A Aardvark it is then!
::scarf:: TBF, I believe he will be able to attract some excellent, exciting players....
And if his team can play with some of the flair he showed when he played, Fulham will be an attractive team to watch...
Yes it's a risk... but I fancy a small one...
COYW
He's better than Magath or Parker!
Quote from: Moussa Dembele the 3rd on June 11, 2026, 07:25:09 PMReal Madrid, Benfica, and Fulham swapping managers was not on my bingo card this summer
I wonder how many times this has happened before
Think this could be a disastrous appointment and it's very odd to see the loudest anti silva voices endorsing it
His record for the A team
Manager Years Win Rate
Manuel Pellegrini 2009–10 ~75%
José Mourinho 2010–13 ~72%
Carlo Ancelotti 2013–15, 2021–25 ~70%
Miguel Muñoz 1960–74 ~68%
Rafael Benítez 2015–16 ~67%
Zinedine Zidane 2016–18, 2019–21 ~66%
Alvaro Arbeloa 2026 64.3%
Fabio Capello 1996–97, 2006–07 ~62%
Vicente del Bosque 1999–2003 ~55–60%
Jupp Heynckes 1997–98 ~59%
Bernd Schuster 2007–08 ~58%
Julen Lopetegui 2018 ~43%
Real Madrid B Team
Manager Matches Win Rate
Míchel 61 — ~61%
Juan Ramón López Caro 178 — ~57%
Manolo Díaz 30 — ~53%
Álvaro Arbeloa 19 10 52.6%
Luis García Plaza 35 — ~47%
Alberto Toril 114 — ~46%
Raúl González 178 71 ~40%
Santiago Solari 86 — ~39–40%
Zinedine Zidane 80 — ~38–39%
Luis Miguel Ramis 40 — ~35–40%
Doesn't look like much of a risk from here
As long as he has some managerial experience.
I don't want to tempt fate but the last time the Khans appointed someone with no managerial experience, his name was René Meulensteen...
Gulp ! 😳
I'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
Quote from: C Block on June 12, 2026, 08:31:24 PMI'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
That's true
Quote from: Cambridge Away on June 12, 2026, 08:10:40 PMHis record for the A team
Manager Years Win Rate
Manuel Pellegrini 2009–10 ~75%
José Mourinho 2010–13 ~72%
Carlo Ancelotti 2013–15, 2021–25 ~70%
Miguel Muñoz 1960–74 ~68%
Rafael Benítez 2015–16 ~67%
Zinedine Zidane 2016–18, 2019–21 ~66%
Alvaro Arbeloa 2026 64.3%
Fabio Capello 1996–97, 2006–07 ~62%
Vicente del Bosque 1999–2003 ~55–60%
Jupp Heynckes 1997–98 ~59%
Bernd Schuster 2007–08 ~58%
Julen Lopetegui 2018 ~43%
Real Madrid B Team
Manager Matches Win Rate
Míchel 61 — ~61%
Juan Ramón López Caro 178 — ~57%
Manolo Díaz 30 — ~53%
Álvaro Arbeloa 19 10 52.6%
Luis García Plaza 35 — ~47%
Alberto Toril 114 — ~46%
Raúl González 178 71 ~40%
Santiago Solari 86 — ~39–40%
Zinedine Zidane 80 — ~38–39%
Luis Miguel Ramis 40 — ~35–40%
Doesn't look like much of a risk from here
Alonso when he was sacked was on 70% and only managed 34 games with the same madrid squard
Quote from: C Block on June 12, 2026, 08:31:24 PMI'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
Based on what? His non-existent experience of working the transfer market?
Quote from: Sting of the North on June 12, 2026, 09:53:10 PMQuote from: C Block on June 12, 2026, 08:31:24 PMI'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
Based on what? His non-existent experience of working the transfer market?
Silva's experience in the transfer market didn't exactly work out with those players.
Quote from: C Block on June 12, 2026, 08:31:24 PMI'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
Ok fan boy, on what basis can you make that assertion?
Quote from: cookieg on June 12, 2026, 10:16:08 PMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 12, 2026, 09:53:10 PMQuote from: C Block on June 12, 2026, 08:31:24 PMI'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
Based on what? His non-existent experience of working the transfer market?
Silva's experience in the transfer market didn't exactly work out with those players.
Sure, that's not an unreasonable opinion. Doesn't make Arbeloa any more experienced though.
Quote from: Nero on June 12, 2026, 09:46:23 PMQuote from: Cambridge Away on June 12, 2026, 08:10:40 PMHis record for the A team
Manager Years Win Rate
Manuel Pellegrini 2009–10 ~75%
José Mourinho 2010–13 ~72%
Carlo Ancelotti 2013–15, 2021–25 ~70%
Miguel Muñoz 1960–74 ~68%
Rafael Benítez 2015–16 ~67%
Zinedine Zidane 2016–18, 2019–21 ~66%
Alvaro Arbeloa 2026 64.3%
Fabio Capello 1996–97, 2006–07 ~62%
Vicente del Bosque 1999–2003 ~55–60%
Jupp Heynckes 1997–98 ~59%
Bernd Schuster 2007–08 ~58%
Julen Lopetegui 2018 ~43%
Real Madrid B Team
Manager Matches Win Rate
Míchel 61 — ~61%
Juan Ramón López Caro 178 — ~57%
Manolo Díaz 30 — ~53%
Álvaro Arbeloa 19 10 52.6%
Luis García Plaza 35 — ~47%
Alberto Toril 114 — ~46%
Raúl González 178 71 ~40%
Santiago Solari 86 — ~39–40%
Zinedine Zidane 80 — ~38–39%
Luis Miguel Ramis 40 — ~35–40%
Doesn't look like much of a risk from here
Alonso when he was sacked was on 70% and only managed 34 games with the same madrid squard
So he was two wins short of being on par with Alonso, whilst playing youngsters? Doesn't exactly seem like Felix Magath. This article even mentions him in the same breath as Pep:
"Coach Álvaro Arbeloa is suddenly responsible for the greatest influx of young talent into Real Madrid's first team in living memory. And it has taken less than nine weeks, never mind nine months' gestation, of him in charge to produce it. Los Blancos' drive to win LaLiga, plus their push for the Champions League quarterfinals, is being sustained by a clutch of teenagers: Thiago Pitarch (18 years old), Dani Yáñez (18), Jorge Cestero (19), Víctor Valdepeñas (18) and Diego Aguado (19), while César Palacios (21) and Manuel Ángel (22) have been hauled up from the B team and given debuts."https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/48219008/alvaro-arbeloa-real-madrid-youth-revolution-straight-manchester-city-barcelona-pep-guardiola-playbook
Quote from: cookieg on June 12, 2026, 10:16:08 PMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 12, 2026, 09:53:10 PMQuote from: C Block on June 12, 2026, 08:31:24 PMI'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
Based on what? His non-existent experience of working the transfer market?
Silva's experience in the transfer market didn't exactly work out with those players.
Firstly, that's an ongoing point as they're both still players for us and we've a new manager who could get more out of them.
Secondly, whilst Andersen has his detractors, he's been an ever-present for us and played most games, which would be considered out and out a successful signing to the degree he's been consistent for us as a starter in the PL in seasons we've consistently been competing for Europe and got our PL record points total.
Thirdly, why are you weakening your argument by not including other players he signed and also being realistic with the fact that no manager, including Klopp and Guardiola etc, hires success stories with every hire. That's almost an impossibility.
What about Wilson, Jimenez, Iwobi, Bassey.., Castagne, Cuenca, Leno, I mean even then the hit rate is pretty high.
Kevin, a resuscitated Sessegnon, Bobb
I for one think ESR showed improvement last season and has still room for more too.
Quote from: Sting of the North on June 12, 2026, 09:53:10 PMQuote from: C Block on June 12, 2026, 08:31:24 PMI'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
Based on what? His non-existent experience of working the transfer market?
You have absolutely no understanding of the meaning of the phrase "I'm willing to bet" have you ? 😣
Quote from: General on June 13, 2026, 03:31:21 AMQuote from: cookieg on June 12, 2026, 10:16:08 PMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 12, 2026, 09:53:10 PMQuote from: C Block on June 12, 2026, 08:31:24 PMI'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
Based on what? His non-existent experience of working the transfer market?
Silva's experience in the transfer market didn't exactly work out with those players.
Firstly, that's an ongoing point as they're both still players for us and we've a new manager who could get more out of them.
Secondly, whilst Andersen has his detractors, he's been an ever-present for us and played most games, which would be considered out and out a successful signing to the degree he's been consistent for us as a starter in the PL in seasons we've consistently been competing for Europe and got our PL record points total.
Thirdly, why are you weakening your argument by not including other players he signed and also being realistic with the fact that no manager, including Klopp and Guardiola etc, hires success stories with every hire. That's almost an impossibility.
What about Wilson, Jimenez, Iwobi, Bassey.., Castagne, Cuenca, Leno, I mean even then the hit rate is pretty high.
Kevin, a resuscitated Sessegnon, Bobb
I for one think ESR showed improvement last season and has still room for more too.
Firstly, and most obviously, Emile Smith-Rowe will never show signs of improvement until he can regularly play 90 minutes, an absolute minimum requirement for a professional footballer, so that's a ridiculous statement to make,£35 million and he barely lasts an hour, and absolutely terrible signing.
Of all the others you listed how much profit could we make on that lot ? I'm leaning towards not a lot,
Iraola has this ability to unearth players from obscurity and make them valuable assets, Silva was tending to pay top dollar for players, meaning that the next manager has very little wriggle room in the summer window.
Please let's not try and rewrite history, for all the many positives of Marco Silva, his wheeling and dealing in the transfer window is at best questionable, surely we can all agree on that ?
Quote from: C Block on June 13, 2026, 07:34:09 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 12, 2026, 09:53:10 PMQuote from: C Block on June 12, 2026, 08:31:24 PMI'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
Based on what? His non-existent experience of working the transfer market?
You have absolutely no understanding of the meaning of the phrase "I'm willing to bet" have you ? 😣
Normally, one would expect some kind of reasoning behind a willingness to bet...
"Normally, one would expect some kind of reasoning behind a willingness to bet..."
Perhaps a sense that Arbeloa couldn't do much worse with £60m+. Let's face it, since returning to us from Palace Anderson has rarely looked the player he seemed to be before and ESR's overall performances have been underwhelming. It is not so much the contributions but the contributions given the cost. Had we got either player for £10m or less, I think we would all be happy enough to have them as squad players, but £30m+ for a player is a huge investment for a club our size and one would hope to have seen more for the money.
On the fence with this if it was to be Arbeloa? Just have this thought that being relatively inexperienced and I wouldn't hold Real Madrid position against him might suit TK and his recruitment team as opposed to him being the right man for the job?
Get the feeling he might accept the position with a lot less say than his predecessor with regards to recruitment which might suit a fair few within the club?
Could be way far off here but when I saw him linked and the rumours last day or so it just felt like someone who's desperate to get back in and would accept position in any circumstance? Going Spanish has proved popular lately and I wonder if this has a bearing should it happen.
The TK interview the other day has me less convinced than I ever was about the recruitment side of FFC.
Quote from: Oakeshott on June 13, 2026, 08:34:06 AM"Normally, one would expect some kind of reasoning behind a willingness to bet..."
Perhaps a sense that Arbeloa couldn't do much worse with £60m+. Let's face it, since returning to us from Palace Anderson has rarely looked the player he seemed to be before and ESR's overall performances have been underwhelming. It is not so much the contributions but the contributions given the cost. Had we got either player for £10m or less, I think we would all be happy enough to have them as squad players, but £30m+ for a player is a huge investment for a club our size and one would hope to have seen more for the money.
Sure, there can be arguments against Silva's transfer success (not that I necessarily agree fully). Personally, however, I would not use "he can surely not be worse than the last guy" as a very strong argument for a candidate.
All this speculating on everything from Tony Khan to potential knowledge of various markets. Let's face we all know zilch in all of these questions! We have to hope the club gets it right when it comes to appointing a new trainer and no doubt the people wanting rid of Marco silva will be the first ones to start moaning if things don't look great after our new couches first couple of weeks.
The more I think about it, the more I like the Arbeloa idea.
Hopefully they can get it done this weekend.
Quote from: ffcthereligion on June 12, 2026, 08:09:35 PMThink this could be a disastrous appointment and it's very odd to see the loudest anti silva voices endorsing it
Equally it could be a brilliant signing, who knows ?
Quote from: JimmyConway on June 13, 2026, 09:20:07 AMOn the fence with this if it was to be Arbeloa? Just have this thought that being relatively inexperienced and I wouldn't hold Real Madrid position against him might suit TK and his recruitment team as opposed to him being the right man for the job?
Get the feeling he might accept the position with a lot less say than his predecessor with regards to recruitment which might suit a fair few within the club?
Could be way far off here but when I saw him linked and the rumours last day or so it just felt like someone who's desperate to get back in and would accept position in any circumstance? Going Spanish has proved popular lately and I wonder if this has a bearing should it happen.
The TK interview the other day has me less convinced than I ever was about the recruitment side of FFC.
In the TK interview the other day he made it crystal clear that apart from one player (Anguissa) all the other signings were down to the manager.
To the people bashing ESR, have you ever thought that his fairly safe approach could be the coaching and keep ball tactics of Marco. I want ESR and others to take more risks, he hardly ever gives the ball away because of his safety first style. 2nd point, who says he can't go 90 minutes, of course he can but when you have Josh King busting a gut to have 20 mins what's wrong with that rotation.
Quote from: Cambridge Away on June 12, 2026, 08:10:40 PMHis record for the A team
Manager Years Win Rate
Manuel Pellegrini 2009–10 ~75%
José Mourinho 2010–13 ~72%
Carlo Ancelotti 2013–15, 2021–25 ~70%
Miguel Muñoz 1960–74 ~68%
Rafael Benítez 2015–16 ~67%
Zinedine Zidane 2016–18, 2019–21 ~66%
Alvaro Arbeloa 2026 64.3%
Fabio Capello 1996–97, 2006–07 ~62%
Vicente del Bosque 1999–2003 ~55–60%
Jupp Heynckes 1997–98 ~59%
Bernd Schuster 2007–08 ~58%
Julen Lopetegui 2018 ~43%
Real Madrid B Team
Manager Matches Win Rate
Míchel 61 — ~61%
Juan Ramón López Caro 178 — ~57%
Manolo Díaz 30 — ~53%
Álvaro Arbeloa 19 10 52.6%
Luis García Plaza 35 — ~47%
Alberto Toril 114 — ~46%
Raúl González 178 71 ~40%
Santiago Solari 86 — ~39–40%
Zinedine Zidane 80 — ~38–39%
Luis Miguel Ramis 40 — ~35–40%
Doesn't look like much of a risk from here
Now this list doesnt say much, unless you want to make it look like Arbeloa is as good a manager as Zidane.
Take into account for how many games theyve managed and also what they won, and arguably also take into account of what the specific Real Madrid side looked like.
Of all of those managers mentioned, only 3 failed to win a major throphy:
Pellegrini, Lopetegui and Arbeloa.
Pellegrini got 96 points in his season, only beaten by arguably the best side the world have ever seen in Peps Barcelona (they got 99 points).
Lopetegui only managed 14 games before getting sacked. Real had a good side but had just sold CR7 and not replaced him. It took time before Benzema became the striker he eventually became and Real started flourish without Ronaldo
Not taking any sides, but I dont like random stats without any context
Quote from: C Block on June 13, 2026, 12:11:51 PMQuote from: JimmyConway on June 13, 2026, 09:20:07 AMOn the fence with this if it was to be Arbeloa? Just have this thought that being relatively inexperienced and I wouldn't hold Real Madrid position against him might suit TK and his recruitment team as opposed to him being the right man for the job?
Get the feeling he might accept the position with a lot less say than his predecessor with regards to recruitment which might suit a fair few within the club?
Could be way far off here but when I saw him linked and the rumours last day or so it just felt like someone who's desperate to get back in and would accept position in any circumstance? Going Spanish has proved popular lately and I wonder if this has a bearing should it happen.
The TK interview the other day has me less convinced than I ever was about the recruitment side of FFC.
In the TK interview the other day he made it crystal clear that apart from one player (Anguissa) all the other signings were down to the manager.
I think he mentioned Slav not wanting him? But still signed him over the manager's head. I would be quite confident there has been more than just one signing his left at the manager's door? Don't remember him saying Anguissa was only one he signed certainly not crystal clear. It's the only one he mentioned. He did say that in last five years he has not made a signing without manager consent? Perhaps having a strong manager in Marco saved us from Tony's Tombola?
CB you say `Iraola has this ability to unearth players from obscurity and make them valuable assets`, that's definitely the scouting and data set up at afc Bournemouth, not iraola.
We also use data but you could see Silvas reluctance to use players like kusu asare that were found using it.
Not saying ours is as good at all, but we don't embrace it like other clubs.
Lookman, aina just to name two very obvious ones. Tosin? Robinson still with us. Tete was a good signing. There's more than you make out...
Quote from: Fulham 1879 on June 11, 2026, 06:14:56 PMSteer him well clear of the Hammy End bogs if a tour of the stadium is part of the interview.
Unless he is wearing a Deep Sea Diving Suit.
Brian Clough said that it is a simple game with the object of the exercise is to score more goals than the opposition.
He was a genius, and for me the best manager I have seen in my lifetime.
He could motivate a corpse.
Lots more noise on twitter about this now.
Looking more likely..
Bet365 1/6 on and no other bookies now offering odds according to Oddschecker.
Worrying appointment for me.
From the Jack Kelly and TK interview, it sounded pretty clear that the club didn't really have a Plan B. My concern is that they're being drawn towards Arbeloa partly because he's a former Real Madrid coach rather than because he's the perfect fit for Fulham's current situation.
Marco Silva was a risk when he arrived too and plenty of people questioned that appointment. The difference is that Marco had a season in the Championship to implement his ideas, build relationships, shape the squad before taking on the Premier League.
Arbeloa may well be an excellent coach with fresh ideas, but he'll be walking into a very different environment. He plays a different style to Marco, so he'll only have pre season to implement his approach. If any current players don't suit that style the club's recruitment process means he's waiting until late in the transfer window for key targets, he will end up trying to integrate both a new system and new players during a Premier League season with very little 1st team management experience.
Young, inexperienced managers have succeeded elsewhere, but usually within clubs that have a clear football structure and defined recruitment strategy that supports the head coach. Fulham currently don't provide that environment.
Unless the club changes the way it operates behind the scenes, I think it's going to be very difficult for Arbeloa to succeed, regardless of his potential as a coach.
Quote from: ElRay on June 13, 2026, 09:48:12 PMArbeloa may well be an excellent coach with fresh ideas, but he'll be walking into a very different environment. He plays a different style to Marco, so he'll only have pre season to implement his approach. If any current players don't suit that style the club's recruitment process means he's waiting until late in the transfer window for key targets, he will end up trying to integrate both a new system and new players during a Premier League season with very little 1st team management experience.
You may well be right.
On the other hand it may be that some of our players, especially those who have disappointed so far, will benefit from a different, hopefully more adventurous, system.
Credit to that Fulham news guy if this gets over the line. He was there before everyone.
Agree with Elray above.
TK etc seem to have had no plan B in the event of MS deciding to move on.
Also interesting how a number of possible replacements soon ruled themselves out.
Quote from: Jims Dentist on June 13, 2026, 10:28:56 PMAgree with Elray above.
TK etc seem to have had no plan B in the event of MS deciding to move on.
Also interesting how a number of possible replacements soon ruled themselves out.
Like manager, like Director of Football
Quote from: Jims Dentist on June 13, 2026, 10:28:56 PMAgree with Elray above.
TK etc seem to have had no plan B in the event of MS deciding to move on.
Also interesting how a number of possible replacements soon ruled themselves out.
Reading some of Silva's comments since being announced by Benfica it appears he was lying about his contact with them to both TK and us supporters. Can understand management being surprised by his decision.
Quote from: sarnian on June 13, 2026, 11:14:40 PMQuote from: Jims Dentist on June 13, 2026, 10:28:56 PMAgree with Elray above.
TK etc seem to have had no plan B in the event of MS deciding to move on.
Also interesting how a number of possible replacements soon ruled themselves out.
Reading some of Silva's comments since being announced by Benfica it appears he was lying about his contact with them to both TK and us supporters. Can understand management being surprised by his decision.
Could you provide a link for me?
Quote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 01:25:37 PMQuote from: KJS on June 11, 2026, 01:09:59 PMQuote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
Quote from: FFC1987 on June 11, 2026, 11:41:12 AMI mean, obviously I'll support the guy and wish for the best.....but its one of those appointments that'll either be a stroke of genius, or a complete disaster.....
A bit like Areola and Glasner
Not really sure I'm appreciating these comparisons. Both have much better CV's than Arbeloa. Unless I'm missing something.
Silva's CV was nothing to shout about but SK clearly saw something in him and resurrected his career.
Quote from: SerbianLad on June 12, 2026, 06:29:46 AMIt would be a very risky appointment. It has a potential of going either way.
I think everyone on here knows it has the potential to go either way unless there is a third way I'm missing.
Quote from: General on June 13, 2026, 03:31:21 AMQuote from: cookieg on June 12, 2026, 10:16:08 PMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 12, 2026, 09:53:10 PMQuote from: C Block on June 12, 2026, 08:31:24 PMI'm willing to bet he can spend £65 million in the Spanish market a lot better than Silva did in the English market with Andersen and Smith-Rowe 😉
Based on what? His non-existent experience of working the transfer market?
Silva's experience in the transfer market didn't exactly work out with those players.
Firstly, that's an ongoing point as they're both still players for us and we've a new manager who could get more out of them.
Secondly, whilst Andersen has his detractors, he's been an ever-present for us and played most games, which would be considered out and out a successful signing to the degree he's been consistent for us as a starter in the PL in seasons we've consistently been competing for Europe and got our PL record points total.
Thirdly, why are you weakening your argument by not including other players he signed and also being realistic with the fact that no manager, including Klopp and Guardiola etc, hires success stories with every hire. That's almost an impossibility.
What about Wilson, Jimenez, Iwobi, Bassey.., Castagne, Cuenca, Leno, I mean even then the hit rate is pretty high.
Kevin, a resuscitated Sessegnon, Bobb
I for one think ESR showed improvement last season and has still room for more too.
Yes both players are playing but have regularly been criticised for poor performances - with people saying ESR is overweight, has been struggling mentally. Andersen not the player he was when first with us. I'm sure you've read those comments so can hardly be a surprise.
The fact that Andersen has played so regularly calls into question Silva's managerial ability by constantly playing an under performing player. He has been consistently reluctant to drop players who aren't playing well which could well explain why for the last two seasons we ran out of steam and failed to achieve a European place when squad rotation, using youth players could have made a big difference.
The other players you mentioned weren't mentioned in the original post to which I was responding.
But let's take Wilson for one. His performances for the last couple of months were no where to what he is capable of and even with the prospect of him going Silva still kept playing him rather than brining in someone else.
Looks like Arbeloa is nailed on and will be announced tomorrow. Hopefully he can get us back to playing the way we were in the first half of the season. Obviously there will be some changes but lets hope he settles in quickly and gets some much needed incomings through the door asap.
Have read a fair few comments where fans are 50-50 with this. Looks like it's going to be an appointment that just might be met with a sprinkling of reservation let alone possible panic stations appointment which going by that interview who would blame supporters. Going to sit on the fence with this one for time being.
Will be interesting 1rst toy TK gets for the new manager and when?
Quote from: Jims Dentist on June 13, 2026, 10:28:56 PMAgree with Elray above.
TK etc seem to have had no plan B in the event of MS deciding to move on.
Also interesting how a number of possible replacements soon ruled themselves out.
Or he did have a plan B diluted didn't want to make it public incase it failed and some fans flagged him off for no reason whatsoever as is pretty much the norm for certain posters on FoF
The fact it's not cesc or poch disappoints me.
Jokes. They were probably unrealistic.
I don't know much about him, but I certainly didn't want Thomas Frank, Ange or some of the other names we have been linked with.
So I'm pleased we haven't gone down those directions. But it'll be a bit of an unknown for us all.
Quote from: KJS on June 14, 2026, 01:35:13 PMQuote from: Jims Dentist on June 13, 2026, 10:28:56 PMAgree with Elray above.
TK etc seem to have had no plan B in the event of MS deciding to move on.
Also interesting how a number of possible replacements soon ruled themselves out.
Or he did have a plan B diluted didn't want to make it public incase it failed and some fans flagged him off for no reason whatsoever as is pretty much the norm for certain posters on FoF
Far more likely . These are astute business people for whom contingency planning is second nature
Quote from: JimOG on June 14, 2026, 01:49:01 PMQuote from: KJS on June 14, 2026, 01:35:13 PMQuote from: Jims Dentist on June 13, 2026, 10:28:56 PMAgree with Elray above.
TK etc seem to have had no plan B in the event of MS deciding to move on.
Also interesting how a number of possible replacements soon ruled themselves out.
I think SK/TK firmly believed Silva was going to sign. If they had meetings planning for next season why would they think anything different? It may well have been that Silva had told them he was off and they went through this whole will he won't he saga to keep the club stable for the last few weeks either way I can't believe that there wasn't a plan b in place. You don't get to be a successful businessman like SK with having contingencies.
Or he did have a plan B diluted didn't want to make it public incase it failed and some fans flagged him off for no reason whatsoever as is pretty much the norm for certain posters on FoF
Far more likely . These are astute business people for whom contingency planning is second nature
Quote from: Jims Dentist on June 13, 2026, 10:28:56 PMAgree with Elray above.
TK etc seem to have had no plan B in the event of MS deciding to move on.
Also interesting how a number of possible replacements soon ruled themselves out.
But then they've also ruled themselves out of other jobs by taking time out etc so I don't think you can read anything in to this.
I'll be pleased if this is announced tomorrow, if only to have some certainty which will allow us to concentrate on the transfer market. Whoever the manager is, he will need new and better players in a number of positions. A dominant midfielder and a reliable striker would be my first targets. The rest depend very much on whether or not Robinson and Lukiz move on, and whether one or two of the others can be improved upon. It will then be interesting to see if the new manager can get the best out of ESR, Sess, Iwobi, and Josh King
Currently in Kavos if any other Fulham are about 👍🏻, anyway Arbeloa, he could possibly attract some half decent players. I have also been thinking is his managerial experience that bad, fat Frank plus others had very little experience and still managed in the Prem.
Spanish Real Madrid supporting friend reckons he's mince, worst Real record 🤷�♂️
Who knows...🤨
Quote from: Jock White on June 14, 2026, 04:58:25 PMSpanish Real Madrid supporting friend reckons he's mince, worst Real record 🤷�♂️
Who knows...🤨
Well unfortunately we don't get a vote as to who our next manager will be. Hopefully he will be a great appointment for us, time will tell. However if he's rubbish, like Ranieri, Magath, Parker etc hope we get rid sooner rather than later before any real damage is done..
I remain positive and am quite happy we didn't get any of the donkeys that were linked with us
This could turnout to be an extremely shrewd move, time will tell
I've said on another thread, there is an element of luck with any signings player or manager. There really is an element of luck.
I think he is a risk option and likely a bad mistake. He has no proper experience and I suspect this is a big step backwards.
If he does join, I hope my concerns prove to be unfounded.
But objectively this really is a crazy option to be considering.
Quote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 05:36:10 PMI think he is a risk option and likely a bad mistake. He has no proper experience and I suspect this is a big step backwards.
If he does join, I hope my concerns prove to be unfounded.
But objectively this really is a crazy option to be considering.
Been coaching for several years, started out with youth football and steadily progressed to senior football after winning trophies at all levels. Not sure how it's objectively a crazy option as it feels like that's your subjective opinion
Quote from: Deeping_white on June 14, 2026, 06:35:41 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 05:36:10 PMI think he is a risk option and likely a bad mistake. He has no proper experience and I suspect this is a big step backwards.
If he does join, I hope my concerns prove to be unfounded.
But objectively this really is a crazy option to be considering.
Been coaching for several years, started out with youth football and steadily progressed to senior football after winning trophies at all levels. Not sure how it's objectively a crazy option as it feels like that's your subjective opinion
Like Magath... :welcome1:
Maybe it's the hunger element which has persuaded SK to go with Arbeloa. After all, Magath and Ranieri had both won league titles in England and Germany before joining us, but both disappointed.
Maybe Khan sees something of Silva in Arbeloa. No trophies yet but wanting to get back into management with a point to prove.
Quote from: Deeping_white on June 14, 2026, 06:35:41 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 05:36:10 PMI think he is a risk option and likely a bad mistake. He has no proper experience and I suspect this is a big step backwards.
If he does join, I hope my concerns prove to be unfounded.
But objectively this really is a crazy option to be considering.
Been coaching for several years, started out with youth football and steadily progressed to senior football after winning trophies at all levels. Not sure how it's objectively a crazy option as it feels like that's your subjective opinion
With all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
Not sure how to post a twitter link but have a look at some of the replies here ... Madrid fans speaking very positively on Arbeloa
https://x.com/FulhamTransfer/status/2066207293151007001
Quote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMQuote from: Deeping_white on June 14, 2026, 06:35:41 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 05:36:10 PMI think he is a risk option and likely a bad mistake. He has no proper experience and I suspect this is a big step backwards.
If he does join, I hope my concerns prove to be unfounded.
But objectively this really is a crazy option to be considering.
Been coaching for several years, started out with youth football and steadily progressed to senior football after winning trophies at all levels. Not sure how it's objectively a crazy option as it feels like that's your subjective opinion
With all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
Pep Guardiola had never managed senior football before Barcelona. Arteta had never managed a senior team before Arsenal. Xabi Alonso was a huge risk before Leverkusen.
All three had worked with some brilliant coaches as assistants (similar to Arbeloa)..
Quote from: v on June 14, 2026, 07:07:22 PMMaybe it's the hunger element which has persuaded SK to go with Arbeloa. After all, Magath and Ranieri had both won league titles in England and Germany before joining us, but both disappointed.
Maybe Khan sees something of Silva in Arbeloa. No trophies yet but wanting to get back into management with a point to prove.
Khan has always stressed 'sustainability' and Arbeloa's use of youth probably appeals.
Quote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMQuote from: Deeping_white on June 14, 2026, 06:35:41 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 05:36:10 PMI think he is a risk option and likely a bad mistake. He has no proper experience and I suspect this is a big step backwards.
If he does join, I hope my concerns prove to be unfounded.
But objectively this really is a crazy option to be considering.
Been coaching for several years, started out with youth football and steadily progressed to senior football after winning trophies at all levels. Not sure how it's objectively a crazy option as it feels like that's your subjective opinion
With all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If we appointed Pep some on this board would moan probably just for the sake of it.
Quote from: v on June 14, 2026, 07:07:22 PMMaybe it's the hunger element which has persuaded SK to go with Arbeloa. After all, Magath and Ranieri had both won league titles in England and Germany before joining us, but both disappointed.
Maybe Khan sees something of Silva in Arbeloa. No trophies yet but wanting to get back into management with a point to prove.
"Hunger".. "Point to prove". Isn't this the trademark of the Khans? I mean, they never seem to sign a Barry Hayles or Geoff Horsfield type person etc (in the ascendency with less of a "point to prove"). Which makes the Kieran McKenna rumours the most surprising thing of this whole saga. The only thing he had to prove was that he could cut it in the Premier league
From the bbc. I feel cautiously optimistic based on this
What can we learn from Arbeloa's time at Madrid?
By
Guillem Balague
BBC Sport Columnist
By the time Arbeloa was promoted from Real Madrid Castilla - sitting fourth in their Primera RFEF group at the time - he had created a football identity of teams with personality and wanting to dominate.
Yet at the first team, he says he couldn't simply be himself.
As he put it: "I had to be the manager I had to be."
So his time as first-team manager at Real Madrid may be no real reference for Fulham.
At Castilla, his side was built around what he calls offensive joy - possession and pressing without the ball were the two pillars.
Arbeloa was always willing to go more direct when a match demanded it.
On paper it was a 4-3-3; in practice, one midfielder pushed on almost as a number 10, shifting the shape into a 4-2-3-1 with a clear reference point up front, and wide areas mattered enormously.
Something was non-negotiable - intensity. Arbeloa's defensive model is built on relentless pressing - this was not a team that wanted to sit back and defend its own box, whatever else changes around it.
Much of that thinking has roots in the dressing rooms he played in.
At Liverpool, Rafa Benitez left him with the example of a coach obsessed with improving individual players, constantly talking to them, constantly correcting.
Back at Real Madrid from 2009, Manuel Pellegrini showed him a coach who loved pace in the game, with the wings left free to exploit it.
From Mourinho, who took charge at the Bernabeu during his playing days there, Arbeloa points to the way he led and demanded maximum effort every day, a meticulously prepared coach whose training was built entirely around his model of play.
Carlo Ancelotti and Vicente del Bosque, the latter from his time with Spain, taught him something different again - that tactics alone aren't enough.
As Arbeloa sees it, a coach who can't manage the group is "doomed to fail" - however sharp his ideas on the pitch.
https://medium.com/@frankie.taylor/alvaro-arbeloa-an-introduction-a424ef9ab470
Good article
Quote from: @jolslover on June 14, 2026, 09:28:32 PMhttps://medium.com/@frankie.taylor/alvaro-arbeloa-an-introduction-a424ef9ab470
Good article
That was an excellent read, thanks for posting it, hopefully (though I doubt it) it can quell some of the negativity.
Quote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMQuote from: Deeping_white on June 14, 2026, 06:35:41 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 05:36:10 PMI think he is a risk option and likely a bad mistake. He has no proper experience and I suspect this is a big step backwards.
If he does join, I hope my concerns prove to be unfounded.
But objectively this really is a crazy option to be considering.
Been coaching for several years, started out with youth football and steadily progressed to senior football after winning trophies at all levels. Not sure how it's objectively a crazy option as it feels like that's your subjective opinion
With all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion... I don't think you understand the word...
Quote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMQuote from: Deeping_white on June 14, 2026, 06:35:41 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 05:36:10 PMI think he is a risk option and likely a bad mistake. He has no proper experience and I suspect this is a big step backwards.
If he does join, I hope my concerns prove to be unfounded.
But objectively this really is a crazy option to be considering.
Been coaching for several years, started out with youth football and steadily progressed to senior football after winning trophies at all levels. Not sure how it's objectively a crazy option as it feels like that's your subjective opinion
With all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
His mandate when he took over at Real Madrid was ensure they secured second in the league which they did so where did he fail? Anything else would have been just a bonus.
(https://i.postimg.cc/63Y50QcC/Screenshot-20260614-232556.png) (https://postimg.cc/2bLDjrP5)
Glad to see we finally managed to get Rylan Clark over the line... 🛒
Quote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Didn't he beat Man City in the CL. If he makes us competitive against them it would be a start instead of rolling over and having our tummy tickled almost every time
Why haven't we gone for Neil Warnock, he only lives in Cornwall and it will save a lot of fannying around.
We could have done it weeks ago, and he would have been charming a pile of new players through the gates at Motspur Park by now.
Quote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
To my mind, if one should entertain the idea of "objective opinions", this cannot simply be used for any opinion just because they have a couple of arguments (that may or may not be objective in themselves) in favour of said opinion. Such a term should be saved for opinions that are heavily grounded in facts and methodology. Mr Andrew was not even close to earning the term objective for his opinion.
In my (subjective) opinion.
I think I'll leave this sideways discussion with the above words. Feel free to disagree.
Quote from: Woolly Mammoth on June 15, 2026, 08:48:23 AMWhy haven't we gone for Neil Warnock, he only lives in Cornwall and it will save a lot of fannying around.
We could have done it weeks ago, and he would have been charming a pile of new players through the gates at Motspur Park by now.
Caretaker manager of Torquay is about the summit of his managerial capabilities.
Quote from: Sting of the North on June 15, 2026, 10:10:07 AMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
To my mind, if one should entertain the idea of "objective opinions", this cannot simply be used for any opinion just because they have a couple of arguments (that may or may not be objective in themselves) in favour of said opinion. Such a term should be saved for opinions that are heavily grounded in facts and methodology. Mr Andrew was not even close to earning the term objective for his opinion.
In my (subjective) opinion.
I think I'll leave this sideways discussion with the above words. Feel free to disagree.
Any "opinion" originates, by its very nature, from a subject, hence it is formed and framed by the background, the knowledge and the perspectives from said subject, regardless of it being attempted to or articulated as "objective".
Not even cold data or "facts" are truly "objective", as they can all be set in a context and tweaked or cherry picked to support whatever argument one has when presenting them in the first place.
Better to just acknowledge that we are all opinionated, and equally so, imo ::wine::
It's a Risky Appointment but I suppose any Appointment is Risky.I like the fact he played in the premier league at Liverpool and a little for West Ham he will have a fair idea what's required on and off the pitch.
I for one can't wait for him to sign, If he comes in shortly, and revamps the team by cutting the dross we carry, and bringing in some exciting new talent, I can see us pushing for Europe, and at the same time having extertaining football to watch. This season cant come quick enough!
"This season cant come quick enough!"
Absolutely agree. If, of course, he signs.
His La Liga record was 13 wins, 2 draws, 4 defeats. Out of those 4 defeats 2 of them came immediately after each leg of the Champions league games against Benfica and 1 came immediately before the first leg of the champions league game against Bayern Munich. The other defeat was away to Barcelona. We have seen with the English clubs that they can struggle in games after European midweek games.
Quote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMQuote from: Deeping_white on June 14, 2026, 06:35:41 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 05:36:10 PMI think he is a risk option and likely a bad mistake. He has no proper experience and I suspect this is a big step backwards.
If he does join, I hope my concerns prove to be unfounded.
But objectively this really is a crazy option to be considering.
Been coaching for several years, started out with youth football and steadily progressed to senior football after winning trophies at all levels. Not sure how it's objectively a crazy option as it feels like that's your subjective opinion
With all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion... I don't think you understand the word...
The objective bit he has very limited experience and underachieved with his only senior appointment, which by all accounts saw him have a very fractious relationship with the squad. That is what makes this an objectively high risk option. It is how one objectively looks at a CV for any candidate for a job..... The subjective part would be if I weigh that against other factors and still feel he is a good fit.
But his background/ lack of exerience at our level, makes him a high risk option. I do not think it is me that doesn't understand the word.
Quote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
Quote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
At some point some PL clubs have to take the plunge to hire an up-and-coming manager with no experience in the league otherwise we will get this situation where there's only 30-40 managers worldwide that have managed in the PL and are not dinosaur-aged. Obviously, Arbeloa is going to be a risk but he seemingly plays a similar formation and tactics to Marco so the risk is mitigated somewhat.
Quote from: Neil D on June 15, 2026, 10:13:52 AMQuote from: Woolly Mammoth on June 15, 2026, 08:48:23 AMWhy haven't we gone for Neil Warnock, he only lives in Cornwall and it will save a lot of fannying around.
We could have done it weeks ago, and he would have been charming a pile of new players through the gates at Motspur Park by now.
Caretaker manager of Torquay is about the summit of his managerial capabilities.
What did you expect? Wildebeests crossing the Serengeti?
Even two of your examples (that he underachieved, and his relationship with the squad) are good examples of things that are subjective, not objective. But I assume you now that.
But if I ignore the objectiveness-hill that you for some strange reason seem willing to die on, I can agree that the appointment (should it happen) sounds quite risky. However, one would hope that the Khans did not just simply glance at Arbeloa's CV and then decided to appoint him because they were starstruck by the legend that is Real Madrid. I assume that quite a lot more goes into the process, which means that from the outside we lack a lot of context.
I also believe all appointments that we are likely to be able to make more or less are quite risky, but the reasons perhaps varies (experience, knowledge of players/leagues, tactics vs existing squad, etc.).
Quote from: AnotherVicHalomLoveChild on June 15, 2026, 01:29:31 PMQuote from: Neil D on June 15, 2026, 10:13:52 AMQuote from: Woolly Mammoth on June 15, 2026, 08:48:23 AMWhy haven't we gone for Neil Warnock, he only lives in Cornwall and it will save a lot of fannying around.
We could have done it weeks ago, and he would have been charming a pile of new players through the gates at Motspur Park by now.
Caretaker manager of Torquay is about the summit of his managerial capabilities.
What did you expect? Wildebeests crossing the Serengeti?
Word on the street is that C K Watt (aged 40) is being strongly considered
Quote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:16:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
At some point some PL clubs have to take the plunge to hire an up-and-coming manager with no experience in the league otherwise we will get this situation where there's only 30-40 managers worldwide that have managed in the PL and are not dinosaur-aged. Obviously, Arbeloa is going to be a risk but he seemingly plays a similar formation and tactics to Marco so the risk is mitigated somewhat.
All you say is very true and I thought MacDonald and Adams were brilliant examples of giving an untried person a chance (OK not the prem but the same principle holds, in some ways the lower divisions are harder because talent and resources are more limited). Everything is a gamble when you appoint a new person and even an experienced man is no guarantee.
Adams and MacDonald already knew the club very well, and even Brentford's manager Knew the system over there and that seems to be working well but Arbeloa's background seems to me to be so different to what he will be confronted with at Fulham, it will be quite a culture shock. I think that is part of what makes him a higher risk option. But if he comes in, hits the ground running and we sparkle (and I have read interesting things on a Reddit forum, explaining his philosophy and why they think he will do well and I am certainly encouraged by that) brilliant for all of us.
Andrew, whoever we take on is a risk and you, I and everyone else will have to wait and see how it pans out.
Agree he is not very experienced but look what happened last season with experienced managers. Everyone said Franks was a good manager and look what happened to him at Spurs. Slot won the Premier League two years ago but last season saw him sacked. Maresca was sacked by Chelsea but is likely to take the Man City job.
Personally whoever we appoint I will support and give a fair chance without prejudice.
I know nothing about him but if Real Madrid put him in charge, I doubt he will be a total fool.
Also, I'd hope that he has created a good network and will be able to attract some exciting names (including hopefully some fringe Real players on loan etc). With all due respect, I doubt that would have happened with McKenna, Rosenior and some of the other names mentioned
It sounds like his signing is going to happen but who knows. Has anyone seen where he reportedly is at the moment? If watching the World Cup and if he is coming to us, I hope some tapping up of potential recruits is going on. At least he will be a "face" out there having managed Real, albeit for a short time
Quote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 01:45:00 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:16:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
At some point some PL clubs have to take the plunge to hire an up-and-coming manager with no experience in the league otherwise we will get this situation where there's only 30-40 managers worldwide that have managed in the PL and are not dinosaur-aged. Obviously, Arbeloa is going to be a risk but he seemingly plays a similar formation and tactics to Marco so the risk is mitigated somewhat.
All you say is very true and I thought MacDonald and Adams were brilliant examples of giving an untried person a chance (OK not the prem but the same principle holds, in some ways the lower divisions are harder because talent and resources are more limited). Everything is a gamble when you appoint a new person and even an experienced man is no guarantee.
Adams and MacDonald already knew the club very well, and even Brentford's manager Knew the system over there and that seems to be working well but Arbeloa's background seems to me to be so different to what he will be confronted with at Fulham, it will be quite a culture shock. I think that is part of what makes him a higher risk option. But if he comes in, hits the ground running and we sparkle (and I have read interesting things on a Reddit forum, explaining his philosophy and why they think he will do well and I am certainly encouraged by that) brilliant for all of us.
Do you think Boa Morte would be a higher risk than Arbeloa? Some seem to think LBM is quite high risk because he's not had much managerial experience but he's had experience as the assistant as well as experience playing in the Prem with us. I think LBM would be a lower risk, given he's worked with Marco and should know the tactics and formations as well as most of the current squad pretty well.
Quote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:54:43 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 01:45:00 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:16:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
At some point some PL clubs have to take the plunge to hire an up-and-coming manager with no experience in the league otherwise we will get this situation where there's only 30-40 managers worldwide that have managed in the PL and are not dinosaur-aged. Obviously, Arbeloa is going to be a risk but he seemingly plays a similar formation and tactics to Marco so the risk is mitigated somewhat.
All you say is very true and I thought MacDonald and Adams were brilliant examples of giving an untried person a chance (OK not the prem but the same principle holds, in some ways the lower divisions are harder because talent and resources are more limited). Everything is a gamble when you appoint a new person and even an experienced man is no guarantee.
Adams and MacDonald already knew the club very well, and even Brentford's manager Knew the system over there and that seems to be working well but Arbeloa's background seems to me to be so different to what he will be confronted with at Fulham, it will be quite a culture shock. I think that is part of what makes him a higher risk option. But if he comes in, hits the ground running and we sparkle (and I have read interesting things on a Reddit forum, explaining his philosophy and why they think he will do well and I am certainly encouraged by that) brilliant for all of us.
Do you think Boa Morte would be a higher risk than Arbeloa? Some seem to think LBM is quite high risk because he's not had much managerial experience but he's had experience as the assistant as well as experience playing in the Prem with us. I think LBM would be a lower risk, given he's worked with Marco and should know the tactics and formations as well as most of the current squad pretty well.
I asked myself the same question and cannot come up with a balanced answer because I have such affection for him from his playing days. I think he is also a risk but he does know the place however I am not sure that he did that well as a stand alone manager (from memory) and think he maybe a better number two but I do not think that option is on the table.
For the experts saying he has not managed at a top level before, neither had Guardiola when he got the Barca job. Arbeloa has also played 7 years in this league so understands the nature of it well.
Quote from: sarnian on June 15, 2026, 01:49:39 PMAndrew, whoever we take on is a risk and you, I and everyone else will have to wait and see how it pans out.
Agree he is not very experienced but look what happened last season with experienced managers. Everyone said Franks was a good manager and look what happened to him at Spurs. Slot won the Premier League two years ago but last season saw him sacked. Maresca was sacked by Chelsea but is likely to take the Man City job.
Personally whoever we appoint I will support and give a fair chance without prejudice.
I will absolutely support whoever we get and hope their time with us is a brilliant success. I agree experience doesn't guarantee success.
Just for the record when Frank went to spurs I thought it an error for both parties based on no more than my instinct. Slot, I have no opinion because the two seasons were so different and had special circumstances. Maresca IMO could go on to be brilliant in a more stable environment where he is allowed to get on and do his job.
But I will give the new manager a proper chance and be very supportive. All I really hope is we can play at a higher tempo and try to get forward quicker than we have in the last season or so.
If we sign him i can see us qualifying for Europe next season.
Just hope the club is taking him on not building hopes up to bring in another coach completely.
Quote from: blingo on June 15, 2026, 04:31:04 PMIf we sign him i can see us qualifying for Europe next season.
Knowing you think that makes me feel so much better about it now Bongo, now I will sleep tonight
Chelsea appointed Rosenior (a flop) and Brentford appointed their set-piece coach (just missing out on Europe)
Horses for Courses.
From what I've heard Arbeloa has a higher profile than either.
Quote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 04:18:41 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:54:43 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 01:45:00 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:16:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
At some point some PL clubs have to take the plunge to hire an up-and-coming manager with no experience in the league otherwise we will get this situation where there's only 30-40 managers worldwide that have managed in the PL and are not dinosaur-aged. Obviously, Arbeloa is going to be a risk but he seemingly plays a similar formation and tactics to Marco so the risk is mitigated somewhat.
All you say is very true and I thought MacDonald and Adams were brilliant examples of giving an untried person a chance (OK not the prem but the same principle holds, in some ways the lower divisions are harder because talent and resources are more limited). Everything is a gamble when you appoint a new person and even an experienced man is no guarantee.
Adams and MacDonald already knew the club very well, and even Brentford's manager Knew the system over there and that seems to be working well but Arbeloa's background seems to me to be so different to what he will be confronted with at Fulham, it will be quite a culture shock. I think that is part of what makes him a higher risk option. But if he comes in, hits the ground running and we sparkle (and I have read interesting things on a Reddit forum, explaining his philosophy and why they think he will do well and I am certainly encouraged by that) brilliant for all of us.
Do you think Boa Morte would be a higher risk than Arbeloa? Some seem to think LBM is quite high risk because he's not had much managerial experience but he's had experience as the assistant as well as experience playing in the Prem with us. I think LBM would be a lower risk, given he's worked with Marco and should know the tactics and formations as well as most of the current squad pretty well.
I asked myself the same question and cannot come up with a balanced answer because I have such affection for him from his playing days. I think he is also a risk but he does know the place however I am not sure that he did that well as a stand alone manager (from memory) and think he maybe a better number two but I do not think that option is on the table.
Boa Morte will never be appointed because he is not management material at the level we are talking. He's a legend as an ex player and did well as an assistant and that's it. I am not sure why people have such opinions with little research
Quote from: AnotherVicHalomLoveChild on June 15, 2026, 01:29:31 PMQuote from: Neil D on June 15, 2026, 10:13:52 AMQuote from: Woolly Mammoth on June 15, 2026, 08:48:23 AMWhy haven't we gone for Neil Warnock, he only lives in Cornwall and it will save a lot of fannying around.
We could have done it weeks ago, and he would have been charming a pile of new players through the gates at Motspur Park by now.
Caretaker manager of Torquay is about the summit of his managerial capabilities.
What did you expect? Wildebeests crossing the Serengeti?
"Sydney opera House - Hanging gardens of Babylon perhaps"?? Tremendous 🤣🤣👍
Quote from: Cambridge Away on June 15, 2026, 06:30:01 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 04:18:41 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:54:43 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 01:45:00 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:16:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
At some point some PL clubs have to take the plunge to hire an up-and-coming manager with no experience in the league otherwise we will get this situation where there's only 30-40 managers worldwide that have managed in the PL and are not dinosaur-aged. Obviously, Arbeloa is going to be a risk but he seemingly plays a similar formation and tactics to Marco so the risk is mitigated somewhat.
All you say is very true and I thought MacDonald and Adams were brilliant examples of giving an untried person a chance (OK not the prem but the same principle holds, in some ways the lower divisions are harder because talent and resources are more limited). Everything is a gamble when you appoint a new person and even an experienced man is no guarantee.
Adams and MacDonald already knew the club very well, and even Brentford's manager Knew the system over there and that seems to be working well but Arbeloa's background seems to me to be so different to what he will be confronted with at Fulham, it will be quite a culture shock. I think that is part of what makes him a higher risk option. But if he comes in, hits the ground running and we sparkle (and I have read interesting things on a Reddit forum, explaining his philosophy and why they think he will do well and I am certainly encouraged by that) brilliant for all of us.
Do you think Boa Morte would be a higher risk than Arbeloa? Some seem to think LBM is quite high risk because he's not had much managerial experience but he's had experience as the assistant as well as experience playing in the Prem with us. I think LBM would be a lower risk, given he's worked with Marco and should know the tactics and formations as well as most of the current squad pretty well.
I asked myself the same question and cannot come up with a balanced answer because I have such affection for him from his playing days. I think he is also a risk but he does know the place however I am not sure that he did that well as a stand alone manager (from memory) and think he maybe a better number two but I do not think that option is on the table.
Boa Morte will never be appointed because he is not management material at the level we are talking. He's a legend as an ex player and did well as an assistant and that's it. I am not sure why people have such opinions with little research
I'm not sure you can have such an opinion when he's only ever had one management role and not had one in a league club. Perhaps he should start at a lower league club but to have such a definitive opinion without one data point is a bit ignorant.
Quote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 07:26:36 PMQuote from: Cambridge Away on June 15, 2026, 06:30:01 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 04:18:41 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:54:43 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 01:45:00 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:16:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
At some point some PL clubs have to take the plunge to hire an up-and-coming manager with no experience in the league otherwise we will get this situation where there's only 30-40 managers worldwide that have managed in the PL and are not dinosaur-aged. Obviously, Arbeloa is going to be a risk but he seemingly plays a similar formation and tactics to Marco so the risk is mitigated somewhat.
All you say is very true and I thought MacDonald and Adams were brilliant examples of giving an untried person a chance (OK not the prem but the same principle holds, in some ways the lower divisions are harder because talent and resources are more limited). Everything is a gamble when you appoint a new person and even an experienced man is no guarantee.
Adams and MacDonald already knew the club very well, and even Brentford's manager Knew the system over there and that seems to be working well but Arbeloa's background seems to me to be so different to what he will be confronted with at Fulham, it will be quite a culture shock. I think that is part of what makes him a higher risk option. But if he comes in, hits the ground running and we sparkle (and I have read interesting things on a Reddit forum, explaining his philosophy and why they think he will do well and I am certainly encouraged by that) brilliant for all of us.
Do you think Boa Morte would be a higher risk than Arbeloa? Some seem to think LBM is quite high risk because he's not had much managerial experience but he's had experience as the assistant as well as experience playing in the Prem with us. I think LBM would be a lower risk, given he's worked with Marco and should know the tactics and formations as well as most of the current squad pretty well.
I asked myself the same question and cannot come up with a balanced answer because I have such affection for him from his playing days. I think he is also a risk but he does know the place however I am not sure that he did that well as a stand alone manager (from memory) and think he maybe a better number two but I do not think that option is on the table.
Boa Morte will never be appointed because he is not management material at the level we are talking. He's a legend as an ex player and did well as an assistant and that's it. I am not sure why people have such opinions with little research
I'm not sure you can have such an opinion when he's only ever had one management role and not had one in a league club. Perhaps he should start at a lower league club but to have such a definitive opinion without one data point is a bit ignorant.
Boa Morte is a good omen that cannot be ignored !
Quote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 01:45:00 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:16:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
At some point some PL clubs have to take the plunge to hire an up-and-coming manager with no experience in the league otherwise we will get this situation where there's only 30-40 managers worldwide that have managed in the PL and are not dinosaur-aged. Obviously, Arbeloa is going to be a risk but he seemingly plays a similar formation and tactics to Marco so the risk is mitigated somewhat.
All you say is very true and I thought MacDonald and Adams were brilliant examples of giving an untried person a chance (OK not the prem but the same principle holds, in some ways the lower divisions are harder because talent and resources are more limited). Everything is a gamble when you appoint a new person and even an experienced man is no guarantee.
Adams and MacDonald already knew the club very well, and even Brentford's manager Knew the system over there and that seems to be working well but Arbeloa's background seems to me to be so different to what he will be confronted with at Fulham, it will be quite a culture shock. I think that is part of what makes him a higher risk option. But if he comes in, hits the ground running and we sparkle (and I have read interesting things on a Reddit forum, explaining his philosophy and why they think he will do well and I am certainly encouraged by that) brilliant for all of us.
Hi Andrews, sorry to be controversial (I appreciate some may see that as my default - though my aim is to stifle debate in a healthy way at most), but you lost me when citing Adams and Macdonald. If it were that straightforward then tonnes of managers would succeed in the PL as many have succeeded in lower leagues.
The general point of Arbeloa being a high risk option I agree with, but there are some unknowns
He played in England under Benitez and so has some idea of what makes a player succeed in the PL, and what tactics are required. What he learns from those experiences don't necessarily mean he's learning the right things though, so a lot will depend on how he learns and also tests what he learns from managers who have learned, of which he's had a few very good managers.
If rumours are true, Mourinho wanted him to stay on as staff, so his time at real wasn't a complete bust. If that's not true then he did fundamentally fail by Real's standards as was chucked from the job after five months (compared to former player Zidane), and lots of rumours of not managing star players.
Reputation matters with star players, whether or not it should is a different matter.
Where it could be different is the expectations, realistically he may build future stars with us, but he won't have to manage as big egos with us.. his technique semi reminds me of magath in the expectations he has on players, and similarly like Parker in the sense that whilst some real supporters are fans; it doesn't come across as if he has a plan b (Parker!)
So, I err on the side of not wanting to take the risk of a fundamentally untried and tested manager. I feel Marco did so well for us and could've done a bit better but was hand tied by TK in my opinion.
Will Arbeloa be worse? Who knows.
Gut says yes, head says could go either way..
I wish we didn't have to choose.
My preference would still be pochettino.. but if Arbeloa turns out well then I'll eat my words
Quote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 07:26:36 PMQuote from: Cambridge Away on June 15, 2026, 06:30:01 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 04:18:41 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:54:43 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 01:45:00 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:16:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
At some point some PL clubs have to take the plunge to hire an up-and-coming manager with no experience in the league otherwise we will get this situation where there's only 30-40 managers worldwide that have managed in the PL and are not dinosaur-aged. Obviously, Arbeloa is going to be a risk but he seemingly plays a similar formation and tactics to Marco so the risk is mitigated somewhat.
All you say is very true and I thought MacDonald and Adams were brilliant examples of giving an untried person a chance (OK not the prem but the same principle holds, in some ways the lower divisions are harder because talent and resources are more limited). Everything is a gamble when you appoint a new person and even an experienced man is no guarantee.
Adams and MacDonald already knew the club very well, and even Brentford's manager Knew the system over there and that seems to be working well but Arbeloa's background seems to me to be so different to what he will be confronted with at Fulham, it will be quite a culture shock. I think that is part of what makes him a higher risk option. But if he comes in, hits the ground running and we sparkle (and I have read interesting things on a Reddit forum, explaining his philosophy and why they think he will do well and I am certainly encouraged by that) brilliant for all of us.
Do you think Boa Morte would be a higher risk than Arbeloa? Some seem to think LBM is quite high risk because he's not had much managerial experience but he's had experience as the assistant as well as experience playing in the Prem with us. I think LBM would be a lower risk, given he's worked with Marco and should know the tactics and formations as well as most of the current squad pretty well.
I asked myself the same question and cannot come up with a balanced answer because I have such affection for him from his playing days. I think he is also a risk but he does know the place however I am not sure that he did that well as a stand alone manager (from memory) and think he maybe a better number two but I do not think that option is on the table.
Boa Morte will never be appointed because he is not management material at the level we are talking. He's a legend as an ex player and did well as an assistant and that's it. I am not sure why people have such opinions with little research
I'm not sure you can have such an opinion when he's only ever had one management role and not had one in a league club. Perhaps he should start at a lower league club but to have such a definitive opinion without one data point is a bit ignorant.
You're the ignoramus who romantacises over our ex players becoming managers despite no "data points". Boa Morte isn't even a Championship Manager. It's just something some Fulham fans like to talk about once in a while. And you got caught up in it apparently. Feel free to carry on
Remember, opinions are simply opinions. You can discuss them or disregard them, but don't dismiss them disrespectfully.
Quote from: bill dando on June 15, 2026, 08:23:36 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 07:26:36 PMQuote from: Cambridge Away on June 15, 2026, 06:30:01 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 04:18:41 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:54:43 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 01:45:00 PMQuote from: demeant0r on June 15, 2026, 01:16:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMQuote from: Arthur on June 15, 2026, 01:01:57 AMQuote from: Sting of the North on June 14, 2026, 10:58:44 PMQuote from: Andrew on June 14, 2026, 07:22:08 PMWith all due respect, you are joking aren't you.
He has not managed a senior team except real where he failed, using the talent he had at his disposal as the benchmark. He is moving to new country to a team he knows nothing about.
Of course it's objective based on facts based on lack of experience and failing with the best players.
If you have a different opinion and think this is a brilliant unexpected choice that's up to you.
If it was objective, he couldn't have a different opinion...
This, to me, is an instance of an objective opinion: Andrew has used facts to form an opinion but this doesn't necessarily make his opinion a fact.
Andrew has used the fact Arbeloa has little senior managerial experience, the fact he will be coaching in the P.L. for the first time, the fact he likely knows little about our squad, and the fact he failed (was sacked) by Real Madrid to form the opinion it would be a crazy appointment. But it is just that: an opinion.
Firstly, Arbeloa may have failed to achieve the results to satisfy Real Madrid's President - hence his sacking - but this isn't the same as saying he failed per se. Arbeloa won 18 out of his 28 games in charge of Real Madrid. I think it is entirely a matter of opinion as to whether this represents 'failure' - particularly so when put in the context of the player unrest that had precipitated Xabi Alonso's departure mid-way through last season.
Secondly, I think it highly debatable how much of a drawback Arbeloa's lack of knowledge of the Club and its players will be. How many weeks and how many training sessions will he require to assess the talent at his disposal, to assess the areas of the squad he wants to improve, and to implement his ideas? And how certain is it that another manager would make better first-hand assessments and implement sounder ideas on the basis of having already seen us play a number of times? Are these not questions to which it is exceptionally difficult - impossible, even - to determine a factual answer?
To my mind, therefore, Andrew's is an opinion that carries somewhat limited merit.
Arthur,
Thank you for a sensible answer and thank you for understanding what I actually said. The fact you do not agree with my opinion is another matter and we are all entitled to our own view.
What i said was that I consider this man to be a high risk option for the reasons I stated. Nobody has actually said he is a good choice or is a low risk option.
I am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
At some point some PL clubs have to take the plunge to hire an up-and-coming manager with no experience in the league otherwise we will get this situation where there's only 30-40 managers worldwide that have managed in the PL and are not dinosaur-aged. Obviously, Arbeloa is going to be a risk but he seemingly plays a similar formation and tactics to Marco so the risk is mitigated somewhat.
All you say is very true and I thought MacDonald and Adams were brilliant examples of giving an untried person a chance (OK not the prem but the same principle holds, in some ways the lower divisions are harder because talent and resources are more limited). Everything is a gamble when you appoint a new person and even an experienced man is no guarantee.
Adams and MacDonald already knew the club very well, and even Brentford's manager Knew the system over there and that seems to be working well but Arbeloa's background seems to me to be so different to what he will be confronted with at Fulham, it will be quite a culture shock. I think that is part of what makes him a higher risk option. But if he comes in, hits the ground running and we sparkle (and I have read interesting things on a Reddit forum, explaining his philosophy and why they think he will do well and I am certainly encouraged by that) brilliant for all of us.
Do you think Boa Morte would be a higher risk than Arbeloa? Some seem to think LBM is quite high risk because he's not had much managerial experience but he's had experience as the assistant as well as experience playing in the Prem with us. I think LBM would be a lower risk, given he's worked with Marco and should know the tactics and formations as well as most of the current squad pretty well.
I asked myself the same question and cannot come up with a balanced answer because I have such affection for him from his playing days. I think he is also a risk but he does know the place however I am not sure that he did that well as a stand alone manager (from memory) and think he maybe a better number two but I do not think that option is on the table.
Boa Morte will never be appointed because he is not management material at the level we are talking. He's a legend as an ex player and did well as an assistant and that's it. I am not sure why people have such opinions with little research
I'm not sure you can have such an opinion when he's only ever had one management role and not had one in a league club. Perhaps he should start at a lower league club but to have such a definitive opinion without one data point is a bit ignorant.
Boa Morte is a good omen that cannot be ignored !
That is a good shout.
Quote from: love4ffc on June 16, 2026, 01:18:43 AMRemember, opinions are simply opinions. You can discuss them or disregard them, but don't dismiss them disrespectfully.
Or keep quoting them
Worth reminding:
Álvaro Arbeloa holds a managerial record of 18 wins, 2 draws, and 8 losses in 28 matches for Real Madrid's first team. This results in a 64.29% win rate and a +24 goal differential (58 goals scored, 34 conceded).
Performance Metrics: The team averaged 2.07 goals scored and 1.21 goals conceded per match, with 58% average possession
Page 7 taken up by ridiculous adding of quotes,one poster with 13 on there. ::angry::
Quote from: Snibbo on June 16, 2026, 07:42:30 AMWorth reminding:
Álvaro Arbeloa holds a managerial record of 18 wins, 2 draws, and 8 losses in 28 matches for Real Madrid's first team. This results in a 64.29% win rate and a +24 goal differential (58 goals scored, 34 conceded).
Performance Metrics: The team averaged 2.07 goals scored and 1.21 goals conceded per match, with 58% average possession
In the league, he has won 19, drew 2 and lost 4 for a win rate of 68% which is pretty good. Not sure we should include the CL in his stats as we don't aren't in Europe.
Quote from: Sting of the North on June 15, 2026, 10:10:07 AMTo my mind, if one should entertain the idea of "objective opinions", this cannot simply be used for any opinion just because they have a couple of arguments (that may or may not be objective in themselves) in favour of said opinion. Such a term should be saved for opinions that are heavily grounded in facts and methodology. Mr Andrew was not even close to earning the term objective for his opinion.
In my (subjective) opinion.
I think I'll leave this sideways discussion with the above words. Feel free to disagree.
Perfectly fair point. Andrew's objectivity does lack the rigour to give it weightiness. The importance he attaches to the facts he cites is subjective - as, of course, are the very facts he chooses to cite. I understand why you are saying an objective opinion should meet a higher bar.
I do believe it possible, however, for there to be more than one objectively formed view on a matter.
Quote from: Andrew on June 15, 2026, 12:43:06 PMI am interested to learn that you think having no experience of managing in the UK let alone the Premiership or indeed been a manager anywhere for any reasonable length of time, and the only job he has had, he was sacked from, is 'of little merit.' But that is your opinion and we shall just have to wait and see how it all pans out.
I said it was of '
limited merit', not 'little merit' - for the reasons I gave in the post to which you were replying when you penned the above and which I have summarised in my response to SotN. But there is, as you point out, a risk involved in appointing Arbeloa that may be less so were we to appoint a more 'tried and tested' manager. Then again, Arbeloa may have a higher ceiling.
Are we actually announcing Arbeloa anytime soon?
Quote from: Coastwalker on June 16, 2026, 08:01:31 AMPage 7 taken up by ridiculous adding of quotes,one poster with 13 on there. ::angry::
I get it is annoying but at least you know what the reply is too. I find it frustrating sometimes that I see a comment but not sure what it is a reply too.
Quote from: The Cravenette on June 16, 2026, 10:25:32 AMAre we actually announcing Arbeloa anytime soon?
Relax, enjoy Royal Ascot, enjoy The World Cup, enjoy the Cricket, Motspur Park is a ghost town for another month at least,
Pierre Sage was announced at Crystal Palace today but he doesn't officially start work until July 6th,
A lot of Arbeloa's support team are currently on the pay roll at Real Madrid so their exit has to be negotiated, and that's just one detail,
From Sage being connected to Palace to being announced took a good two weeks, so id expect Arbeloa to be the same, as frustrating as it is.
All good things come to those who wait 😀👍🏻
Quote from: C Block on June 16, 2026, 10:43:48 AMQuote from: The Cravenette on June 16, 2026, 10:25:32 AMAre we actually announcing Arbeloa anytime soon?
Relax, enjoy Royal Ascot, enjoy The World Cup, enjoy the Cricket, Motspur Park is a ghost town for another month at least,
Pierre Sage was announced at Crystal Palace today but he doesn't officially start work until July 6th,
A lot of Arbeloa's support team are currently on the pay roll at Real Madrid so their exit has to be negotiated, and that's just one detail,
From Sage being connected to Palace to being announced took a good two weeks, so id expect Arbeloa to be the same, as frustrating as it is.
All good things come to those who wait 😀👍🏻
Expect a deal sheet some minutes after the deadline day transfer window slams shut.
Quote from: The Cravenette on June 16, 2026, 10:25:32 AMAre we actually announcing Arbeloa anytime soon?
it's all gone quite again??
Apparently it's all off now according to Romero. So the search continues. Could it (please) be Poch? 🙏🏼
It will be announced having been all done behind the scenes.
Quote from: Kimbleman on June 16, 2026, 12:20:51 PMApparently it's all off now according to Romero. So the search continues. Could it (please) be Poch? 🙏🏼
He absolutely hasn't said that
Quote from: Kimbleman on June 16, 2026, 12:20:51 PMApparently it's all off now according to Romero. So the search continues. Could it (please) be Poch? 🙏🏼
Who's Romero anyway? The Spurs defender? What would he know about it? Or do you mean Fabrizio Romano?
Quote from: Coastwalker on June 16, 2026, 08:01:31 AMPage 7 taken up by ridiculous adding of quotes,one poster with 13 on there. ::angry::
Sorry (honestly), entirely my fault! I will try not to do it again, honest (again)!
I will not respond again or answer the posts below yours on the related topic.
I allowed myself to be sucked into long pointless exchanges, I should have known better.
It would appear clubs are announcing manager appointments left right and centre, Palace are now the next one, yet we are still "Working on it"
Quote from: Andrew on June 16, 2026, 01:35:57 PMQuote from: Coastwalker on June 16, 2026, 08:01:31 AMPage 7 taken up by ridiculous adding of quotes,one poster with 13 on there. ::angry::
Sorry (honestly), entirely my fault! I will try not to do it again, honest (again)!
I will not respond again or answer the posts below yours on the related topic.
I allowed myself to be sucked into long pointless exchanges, I should have known better.
Thank you
Quote from: KentFulham on June 16, 2026, 01:42:07 PMIt would appear clubs are announcing manager appointments left right and centre, Palace are now the next one, yet we are still "Working on it"
As C Block said above- it takes time to get everything agreed. If he takes over in the next 10-15 days thar will be fine. In the meantime, I'm sure Arbeloa will do some research into our squad and start looking at the areas he needs to strengthen...
Quote from: KentFulham on June 16, 2026, 01:42:07 PMIt would appear clubs are announcing manager appointments left right and centre, Palace are now the next one, yet we are still "Working on it"
To be fair Glasner told Palace he was leaving in January so it took them at least 5 months to find a replacement
Disgraceful.
Shows how inept our Board is and how unsuitable this guy is.
He should already be out in the middle at Motspur Park with his whistle round his neck and a net bag of footballs.
Yes I know all the players are on holiday or at the World Cup, but you've got to show the right attitude.
Quote from: cmg on June 16, 2026, 02:42:41 PMDisgraceful.
Shows how inept our Board is and how unsuitable this guy is.
He should already be out in the middle at Motspur Park with his whistle round his neck and a net bag of footballs.
Yes I know all the players are on holiday or at the World Cup, but you've got to show the right attitude.
Heard he want impressed by the speed Hilda got the tea and is having second thoughts about the players fitness
Quote from: Nero on June 16, 2026, 10:42:08 PMQuote from: cmg on June 16, 2026, 02:42:41 PMDisgraceful.
Shows how inept our Board is and how unsuitable this guy is.
He should already be out in the middle at Motspur Park with his whistle round his neck and a net bag of footballs.
Yes I know all the players are on holiday or at the World Cup, but you've got to show the right attitude.
Heard he want impressed by the speed Hilda got the tea and is having second thoughts about the players fitness
Hilda Thatcher? :slap:
So is he joining us or not?
Quote from: perry geyton on June 15, 2026, 05:18:21 PMQuote from: blingo on June 15, 2026, 04:31:04 PMIf we sign him i can see us qualifying for Europe next season.
Knowing you think that makes me feel so much better about it now Bongo, now I will sleep tonight
I can understand that. Sweet dreams cupcake :guitar-playHDs: :slap:
Quote from: cmg on June 16, 2026, 02:42:41 PMDisgraceful.
Shows how inept our Board is and how unsuitable this guy is.
He should already be out in the middle at Motspur Park with his whistle round his neck and a net bag of footballs.
Yes I know all the players are on holiday or at the World Cup, but you've got to show the right attitude.
Don't forget the orange slices !
And Hilda bought Viennese Whirls in case the players get low on blood sugars 🍰
I expect an announcement today. Tony likes a bit of PR and the day England play in the world cup with people watching and for it to be talked about is the day
Did an internet search on it Arbeloa to Fulham had stalled, got an "AI" reply as below, hopefully noth8ng to drastic unless we are going for Martinez now lol
AI Overview
Negotiations between Fulham and Álvaro Arbeloa have not completely stalled, though they have hit a slight snag as the club works through final details. Despite initial reports that a full agreement was imminent, both parties are continuing discussions as the Cottagers seek to finalize a replacement for Marco Silva
Arbeloa to be announced today
Quote from: LVBPTS on June 17, 2026, 09:11:56 AMArbeloa to be announced today
Woah an LBPTS bomba out the blue. Good to see ya!
"I was told yesterday that Álvaro Arbeloa to become Fulham manager is not a done deal yet. I know who has reported that it should be done soon. I am simply sharing what I have heard.
I do hope things have changed and an announcement comes soon. We wait and see". #FFC
From Russ Goldman on X
Quote from: v on June 17, 2026, 11:59:14 AM"I was told yesterday that Álvaro Arbeloa to become Fulham manager is not a done deal yet. I know who has reported that it should be done soon. I am simply sharing what I have heard.
I do hope things have changed and an announcement comes soon. We wait and see". #FFC
From Russ Goldman on X
Mr "I was told" sorry I don't believe anything Russ says.
I totally ignore anything from the media, what happens will happen.
Quote from: The blahblahman on June 17, 2026, 12:22:30 PMQuote from: v on June 17, 2026, 11:59:14 AM"I was told yesterday that Álvaro Arbeloa to become Fulham manager is not a done deal yet. I know who has reported that it should be done soon. I am simply sharing what I have heard.
I do hope things have changed and an announcement comes soon. We wait and see". #FFC
From Russ Goldman on X
Mr "I was told" sorry I don't believe anything Russ says.
Yep normally take his stuff with a pinch of salt but sounds plausible after listening to TK. Seems odd to release that if Arbeloa is imminent. Having said that, LBVPTS normally a good source so we'll have to wait and see
Quote from: HillingdonFFC on June 17, 2026, 04:44:03 PMQuote from: The blahblahman on June 17, 2026, 12:22:30 PMQuote from: v on June 17, 2026, 11:59:14 AM"I was told yesterday that Álvaro Arbeloa to become Fulham manager is not a done deal yet. I know who has reported that it should be done soon. I am simply sharing what I have heard.
I do hope things have changed and an announcement comes soon. We wait and see". #FFC
From Russ Goldman on X
Mr "I was told" sorry I don't believe anything Russ says.
Yep normally take his stuff with a pinch of salt but sounds plausible after listening to TK. Seems odd to release that if Arbeloa is imminent. Having said that, LBVPTS normally a good source so we'll have to wait and see
I don't know who it will be but they aren't going to come out and say all eggs in the Arbeloa basket. Romano,Moretto are 2 of the biggest out there and they are all but certain it's Arbeloa.
Saying there's another candidate just makes it look better for Khan's.
I think this time next week Arbeloa will be in.
Quote from: v on June 17, 2026, 11:59:14 AM"I was told yesterday that Álvaro Arbeloa to become Fulham manager is not a done deal yet. I know who has reported that it should be done soon. I am simply sharing what I have heard.
I do hope things have changed and an announcement comes soon. We wait and see". #FFC
From Russ Goldman on X
This guy is always 'I heard' or 'I'm told' as if he's hanging out in a bar with staff, despite living 3000 miles away and whatever he's 'told' always ends up straight on twitter so it's a mystery why anyone would tell this American anything
Quote from: LVBPTS on June 17, 2026, 09:11:56 AMArbeloa to be announced today
Any particular time?
Quote from: LVBPTS on June 17, 2026, 09:11:56 AMArbeloa to be announced today
Well, that announcement's gone well. It's tomorrow now and still no news.
Thanks for popping up out of nowhere though. Much appreciated. ::thumb::
DANG!! I missed it... ::tongue::
Mckenna back in the betting. :slap:
The slowness in getting a new manager makes me think it's because the guy TK actual wants is in the WC. There's no way it takes 2+ weeks to work out a deal with any manager.
Poch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Quote from: demeant0r on June 18, 2026, 10:01:46 AMThe slowness in getting a new manager makes me think it's because the guy TK actual wants is in the WC. There's no way it takes 2+ weeks to work out a deal with any manager.
But it's not only the manager but his half dozen assistants that have to be negotiated.
Quote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Quote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Or a ruse to get arboloas agent to except what's on offer as theirs someone's else
Quote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Quote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Probably not?
At this point I've gotten used to the khans getting "close" and then slowing way down on the final details, and sometimes seemingly going back to the negotiation table. They went quicker when they were new owners; seems like they've learned that a PL team has pull and the ability to be strong in negotiations.
Quote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Craig Kline?
Probably still negotiating the early buy out fee, especially given Marco's and McKenna's substantial amounts.
Quote from: Jims Dentist on June 18, 2026, 01:38:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Craig Kline?
Ho ho, Mi Lud!
Quote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 01:16:12 PMQuote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Quote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Probably not?
I see he is the other manager mentioned in the TK update by the BBC!
Quote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 02:55:16 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 01:16:12 PMQuote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Quote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Probably not?
I see he is the other manager mentioned in the TK update by the BBC!
AI says it's Arbeloa and Lamps.
TK clearly does not know a single thing about the history of Fulham if he is pursuing Fat Frank.
Do not want to be disrespectful to Arbeloa but if Poch was in the reckoning it's a no brainer. If the club are wanting a manager who as soon as he walks through the front door will command respect then he would be that man. Would probably show a greater ambition appointment than Marco Silva renewing.
I was hoping it would be Poch originally but had come to terms late last week it was going to Arbeloa who was strongly linked and betting showed he was odds on.
Still think it's likely Arbeloa as he is unlikely to spit the dummy out of the pram at least to start with but couple of bits in the TK recent interview at Fulham that he mentioned left me thinking might his inexperience be a concern? Lot of money invested into Fulham since we got promoted and perhaps they do not want to rock any boats or flirt with an upheaval season?
Quote from: demeant0r on June 18, 2026, 03:01:46 PMTK clearly does not know a single thing about the history of Fulham if he is pursuing Fat Frank.
I don't have any issues with Lampard, so he kissed the Chelsea badge big deal, when I have heard him talk about Fulham he has always been complementary. If he should come then I will back him like I will anyone, I support the club first and foremost. If he comes and does a bad job then he will go.
Lampard kissing the badge is the least of our worries. His last two spells managing in the league was poor. Everton 12 wins in 44 and Chelsea 1 win in 11. If Coventry stay up then by all means give him a crack but imagine him taking us down as ex-Chelsea. He's a BIG risk.
I also don't get the Poch love in. Ok so he's manager of the US team and has managed PSG, Chelsea and Spurs but he wasn't amazing at either and came runner up a lot. Given the resources in which he will have with Fulham compared to PSG & Chelsea I see hi. Struggling.
Espanyol won 53 but didn't win 108
Saints won 23 but didn't win 37
Spurs won 160 but did't win 133
PSG won 55 but didn't win 29
Chelsea won 26 but didn't win 25
USA won 15 but didn't win 12.
Expensive gamble based on his past big clubs.
Arbeloa is an also a gamble. Never managed in the league but also has no baggage In It either. A fresh approach, new ideas and a point to prove to Madrid and will be hungry to succeed.
Out the 3 I'd have Arbeloa, Poch then lamps but just my opinion.
They have had long enough to tie Arebola up unless he is on holiday and cant get back for the interview
As mentioen earlier it does feel though like it could be one of the World Cup managers
Quote from: ffc_forever on June 18, 2026, 04:03:35 PMLampard kissing the badge is the least of our worries. His last two spells managing in the league was poor. Everton 12 wins in 44 and Chelsea 1 win in 11. If Coventry stay up then by all means give him a crack but imagine him taking us down as ex-Chelsea. He's a BIG risk.
I also don't get the Poch love in. Ok so he's manager of the US team and has managed PSG, Chelsea and Spurs but he wasn't amazing at either and came runner up a lot. Given the resources in which he will have with Fulham compared to PSG & Chelsea I see hi. Struggling.
Espanyol won 53 but didn't win 108
Saints won 23 but didn't win 37
Spurs won 160 but did't win 133
PSG won 55 but didn't win 29
Chelsea won 26 but didn't win 25
USA won 15 but didn't win 12.
Expensive gamble based on his past big clubs.
Arbeloa is an also a gamble. Never managed in the league but also has no baggage In It either. A fresh approach, new ideas and a point to prove to Madrid and will be hungry to succeed.
Out the 3 I'd have Arbeloa, Poch then lamps but just my opinion.
Opinions are for us all, any of the managers/coaches being banded about could come and do a great job or indeed a poor job, until that person gets working none of us will know, although there are a few on here who appear to know.
Quote from: sunburywhite on June 18, 2026, 04:10:51 PMThey have had long enough to tie Arebola up unless he is on holiday and cant get back for the interview
As mentioen earlier it does feel though like it could be one of the World Cup managers
Please not Jesse Marsch, although being a yank,I wouldn't be supprised
Quote from: v on June 18, 2026, 02:59:18 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 02:55:16 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 01:16:12 PMQuote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Quote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Probably not?
I see he is the other manager mentioned in the TK update by the BBC!
AI says it's Arbeloa and Lamps.
Ali has been known to be wrong at times
Quote from: sunburywhite on June 18, 2026, 04:10:51 PMThey have had long enough to tie Arebola up unless he is on holiday and cant get back for the interview
As mentioen earlier it does feel though like it could be one of the World Cup managers
I read somewhere that his agent is at the world cup because he represents Casemiro. Maybe that has something to do with it.
I think we are waiting on Roberto Martinez ,he is leaving the Portuguese job after the world cup
Since Arbeloa was linked betting has closed completely, so i have no idea what the club are doing. Unless Arbeloa is holding it up himself wanting guarantees?
Quote from: junior white on June 18, 2026, 05:20:32 PMQuote from: v on June 18, 2026, 02:59:18 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 02:55:16 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 01:16:12 PMQuote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Quote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard? or=Fulhamight link=msg=1644226 date=1781790916]
Quote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 01:16:12 PMQuote from: Eton White on June 18, 2026, 12:11:53 PMQuote from: Fulhamight on June 18, 2026, 11:06:06 AMPoch? It's in the stars. Seriously though, in TKs update, he is considering 2 standout candidates! Arbeloa and who???
Lampard?
Quote from: Eton White link=
/quote]
Probably not?
Arbeloa and Lamps.
Ali has been known to be wrong
I see he is the other manager mentioned in the TK update by the BBC!
AI says it's Arbeloa and Lamps.
Ali has been known to be wrong at times
could be
Quote from: sunburywhite on June 18, 2026, 04:10:51 PMThey have had long enough to tie Arebola up unless he is on holiday and cant get back for the interview
As mentioen earlier it does feel though like it could be one of the World Cup managers
Steve Clarke
Quote from: Finnans Right Peg on June 18, 2026, 10:19:53 PMI think we are waiting on Roberto Martinez ,he is leaving the Portuguese job after the world cup
Martinez might be available sooner than later if Portugal lay another egg at the WC
Quote from: Super Mick on June 18, 2026, 10:27:04 PMSince Arbeloa was linked betting has closed completely, so i have no idea what the club are doing. Unless Arbeloa is holding it up himself wanting guarantees?
Precisely " you have no idea what the clubs doing" so just let them do their job
Quote from: KJS on June 19, 2026, 08:50:45 AMQuote from: Super Mick on June 18, 2026, 10:27:04 PMSince Arbeloa was linked betting has closed completely, so i have no idea what the club are doing. Unless Arbeloa is holding it up himself wanting guarantees?
Precisely " you have no idea what the clubs doing" so just let them do their job
Anyone who has been on either side of the process of recruiting a senior manager will know that, to do it properly, it is a long and complex process, especially if a the manager comes with a team of his / her own people.
Quote from: FulhamKC on June 19, 2026, 02:30:08 AMQuote from: Finnans Right Peg on June 18, 2026, 10:19:53 PMI think we are waiting on Roberto Martinez ,he is leaving the Portuguese job after the world cup
Martinez might be available sooner than later if Portugal lay another egg at the WC
Quite clear that it's not Martinez calling the shots in that Portugal team. Homelando making it all about him once again.
Quote from: @jolslover on June 14, 2026, 09:28:32 PMhttps://medium.com/@frankie.taylor/alvaro-arbeloa-an-introduction-a424ef9ab470
Good article
Thank you! Selfishly, I am hoping it's not in vein at this stage with us still waiting on an appointment lol.
I really can't add much more than what was written in there, I do want to reiterate the final point - In a world where Claudio Ranieri was "risk free" for Fulham, I admire throwing a dart for glory.
I think we simplify these things, it's the Khan's calling people "do you want the job?" and then we're onto money. There's a fuller process where projects are presented, plans for the entire club, evaluation of the squad and how they'd like to go about the transfer windows; these plans are also likely extrapolated over 2,3,4,5 years and how they align with the clubs' actual goal (which I genuinely can't imagine is more than self sustainable Premier League football).
The Khan's appointed Claudio Ranieri which was an appointment that on paper, looked a reasonable success at the time not long from his time at Leicester, had a very solid year at Nantes had a desired experienced resume but the match was appalling between him and the club. Marco Silva had plenty of raised eyebrows at the time given his rough end at Everton, especially in the context of his exit from Watford. The match was perfect, absolutely perfect.
In reality, we don't really know until we know. I recall Southampton being slaughtered for replacing Nigel Adkins with relatively unknown Mauricio Pochettino; the same with Bournemouth moving from Gary O'Neil to Andoni Iraola.
Alvaro Arbeloa may be a great success, he may not. The decision lies with people who have hundreds of millions of pounds on the line, I'd like to think that would leave them in a position where the decision will be made that they genuinely believe is the best for the club, and we have to trust that. All we can do is assess and live by them!
I was won over by digging more into Arbeloa's ideas and past, he presents a style and philosophy which matches my own.
Quote from: Super Mick on June 18, 2026, 10:27:04 PMSince Arbeloa was linked betting has closed completely, so i have no idea what the club are doing. Unless Arbeloa is holding it up himself wanting guarantees?
Maybe he is still contracted to Real and can't make any announcement until after June.
Quote from: KJS on June 19, 2026, 08:50:45 AMQuote from: Super Mick on June 18, 2026, 10:27:04 PMSince Arbeloa was linked betting has closed completely, so i have no idea what the club are doing. Unless Arbeloa is holding it up himself wanting guarantees?
Precisely " you have no idea what the clubs doing" so just let them do their job
Ok Tony.
Arebolas ideas I like, high pressing game, younger players seems a step up to me.
Quote from: hovewhite on June 21, 2026, 06:44:26 AMArebolas ideas I like, high pressing game, younger players seems a step up to me.
Will be interesting to see what happens to Emile Smith-Rowe in a game plan like that, he can barely last an hour at the moment, will that be acceptable to a manager that maybe expects more ?
Quote from: C Block on June 21, 2026, 08:59:12 AMQuote from: hovewhite on June 21, 2026, 06:44:26 AMArebolas ideas I like, high pressing game, younger players seems a step up to me.
Will be interesting to see what happens to Emile Smith-Rowe in a game plan like that, he can barely last an hour at the moment, will that be acceptable to a manager that maybe expects more ?
high press mean ESR has to be a lot fitter ,let's be honest they should be.
Quote from: C Block on June 21, 2026, 08:59:12 AMQuote from: hovewhite on June 21, 2026, 06:44:26 AMArebolas ideas I like, high pressing game, younger players seems a step up to me.
Will be interesting to see what happens to Emile Smith-Rowe in a game plan like that, he can barely last an hour at the moment, will that be acceptable to a manager that maybe expects more ?
Who said ESR can Barely last an hour, it was a rotation plan by Silva with Josh. ESR was to press, press and press some more, then bring on Josh for a completely different game, that's what team rotation is all about.
an hour
Mate of mine said last night Arbeloa has big plans if he gets the job, maybe a restructure behind the scenes. It may be behind the delays. No idea where he heard it though so pinch of salt stuff.
With regards to Arbeloa thinking about it more there are a lot of red flags? Six months as a B Team manager at Madrid then jettisoned in to first team? Is that significant enough to be manager of an established premier league club? If rumour is right he plays the press we have a squad where a fair few it won't suit for sure? Financially you can't just write X Y Z off.
If we can snag Poch then I would accept the possibility of a slow start probably or slightly disorganised one knowing long term we are likely to improve.
Silva has laid the foundations and to lose all that on an experimental manager is a big call.
Dragging on isn't it.
Any odds he's not coming. ::wink::
I have this hope it's going to be a Poch with assistant Ream dream ticket.
Quote from: The blahblahman on June 21, 2026, 10:15:52 AMMate of mine said last night Arbeloa has big plans if he gets the job, maybe a restructure behind the scenes. It may be behind the delays. No idea where he heard it though so pinch of salt stuff.
Big plans. ?
I think he is talking about the Hammersmith End.
Quote from: Woolly Mammoth on June 21, 2026, 02:28:03 PMQuote from: The blahblahman on June 21, 2026, 10:15:52 AMMate of mine said last night Arbeloa has big plans if he gets the job, maybe a restructure behind the scenes. It may be behind the delays. No idea where he heard it though so pinch of salt stuff.
Big plans. ?
I think he is talking about the Hammersmith End.
What about the Hammersmith end? ::wink:: :slap:
I have no inside knowledge at all but, just based on general life experience, I fear that these rumours have gone on for so long without an announcement that it might not be happening. At the moment, I'd take Arbeloa in a heartbeat and I was underwhelmed by him as a choice when his name first came up but, let's face it, we're now in a desperate position.
We have little to no chance of getting any decent players in without them knowing who the manager is. We'll just end up with dross mercenaries if we're recruiting players through our board and owners.
Let's hope I'm totally wrong and we've had a manager in the bag for months, he's been talking to new recruits with our board about his vision but it can't be done in public for contractual reasons. Meanwhile, on Planet Fulham...
Quote from: FFC007 on June 21, 2026, 05:21:24 PMQuote from: Woolly Mammoth on June 21, 2026, 02:28:03 PMQuote from: The blahblahman on June 21, 2026, 10:15:52 AMMate of mine said last night Arbeloa has big plans if he gets the job, maybe a restructure behind the scenes. It may be behind the delays. No idea where he heard it though so pinch of salt stuff.
Big plans. ?
I think he is talking about the Hammersmith End.
What about the Hammersmith end? ::wink:: :slap:
The end is nigh
Quote from: Kimbleman on June 21, 2026, 11:03:04 AMI have this hope it's going to be a Poch with assistant Ream dream ticket.
I'm here for it.
Quote from: roberto w6 on June 21, 2026, 05:26:21 PMI have no inside knowledge at all but, just based on general life experience, I fear that these rumours have gone on for so long without an announcement that it might not be happening. At the moment, I'd take Arbeloa in a heartbeat and I was underwhelmed by him as a choice when his name first came up but, let's face it, we're now in a desperate position.
We have little to no chance of getting any decent players in without them knowing who the manager is. We'll just end up with dross mercenaries if we're recruiting players through our board and owners.
Let's hope I'm totally wrong and we've had a manager in the bag for months, he's been talking to new recruits with our board about his vision but it can't be done in public for contractual reasons. Meanwhile, on Planet Fulham...
Dont weat it most decent players are at the world cup so most transfers arent going to happen umtil after that
https://x.com/FulhamTransfer/status/2069346997287444521?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet
https://x.com/David_Ornstein/status/2069366412041220134