21-01-2026, 08:08 PM
(21-01-2026, 07:29 PM)Salvatore Matrecano Wrote:(21-01-2026, 07:10 PM)wassy04 Wrote:(21-01-2026, 05:55 PM)Salvatore Matrecano Wrote: The idea is to improve the team. None have improved the team, Jesus wouldn’t have got in last seasons team if Wood was fit. We have improved the squad depth (back ups is a terrible phrase), have one or two for the future that’s about it.
Which positions do you think we needed to improve out of the first 11?
Personally felt like a CM (Luiz) and a CF were priorities in the summer, plus replacing Elanga obviously. Should we have gone harder at a more established winger? Or more established CF? Luiz seemed like a decent signing that didn't work out after the injury.
The wingers could easily still be hits, all young and have shown flashes.
Priorities were
1. a proper CF to compete and eventually replace Wood. We took a punt on a Brazilian from our “trading partners” and Kali who we clearly didn’t do homework on.
2. We needed 2 wide players and possibly someone who could play across the line. We spent a lot but I expected better. Im not writing any off yet but did we really need all 3? Im going to accept manager changes and poor tactics haven’t helped any of them.
3. Someone to replace MGW long term, McAtee on paper fitted that bill but did anyone actually watch him?
4. Left back. we got another random from our trading partners and a terrible deadline day loan that we’ve had to cancel
5. Right back. We got Savona, I like him but Im still sure he isn’t a right back
6. Centre Mid. Someone to control the game. DL is perfect but we have clearly decided his injuries mean we don’t want to activate the buy clause with the result we can’t start him in PL games. Did anyone look at this beforehand? Why not because nothing has changed?. Its a sackable offence by itself.
7. Centre Back. We knew Morato wasn’t good enough but if Jair Cunha wasn’t seen as ready yet we needed another as Boly is shot. Jair himself one for the future and a big tick.
8. Goalkeeper. We needed 2. We got one who has openly said he isnt happy to be 3rd pick and Carlos Miguels identical twin with half a brain.
Edu was appointed to lead global football strategy not just recruitment. Yet again my point is where is the strategy in all of this? How much research was done and how much was decided over an expenses paid lunch with our agent mates?
Solid analysis.
As much as I don't approve of Edu's influence, it's unlikely he had much choice with doing Botafogo business.