Jul 12
Who Is Your Choice For United’s Number 2?
Carlos Queiroz’s second stint at United ended yesterday officially as he took up the top job as Portugal’s coach.
It remains to be seen, however, if United are looking to get a replacement manager from abroad or just looking to promote personnel from within the club’s coaching hierarchy. So let’s spend a little while talking on who you think to be ideally suited to the assistant manager job.
Before we pick out names let’s decide what we want from our number two. An assistant:
- should be technically and tactically astute. He is the one that runs the daily training sessions as the manager looks on from a distance. Fergie has tended to be less hands on than he used to be in his early days, so a willingness to oversee daily training is a must.
- should be a guidance counsellor — someone the players can look to fall back on during the toughest of times — a friend, a father figure.
- should be conversant in a number of languages, typically reflective of the composition of our side. So a Portuguese/Spanish tilt would be ideal. He is basically the one that listens to players almost daily, so communication is vital.
- should be of a certain pedigree; after all this is Manchester United we’re talking about.
- could, as an optional attribute, be well connected all over the place so that upcoming talent can be scouted.
- should be able to deal with the media, because Fergie won’t talk to the BBC.
I’ll throw four candidates and give a two pennies worth on each. And I’d like some ideas from you all too.
Laurent Blanc — Has had a successful start to his managerial career with Bordeaux. But I haven’t seen enough to really judge him, although he has been touted as being a possible candidate. However I think he lacks experience.
Michael Laudrup — Very impressive with Getafe, although he may lack experience. Fluent in different languages, and will command respect from players. Wouldn’t mind seeing him at United.
Eric Cantona — has charisma but little experience. Can’t say much although it would get lot of fans excited. And we’ll get to see colourful interviews on MoTD
Frank Rijkaard — Has European pedigree and experience at top clubs. Can speak English, Spanish, Dutch and Italian. Must have learned some Portuguese considering the large Portuguese contingent he managed at Barca. However, not sure of his tactical nous because it was widely thought that Ten Cate was the tactical man.
Manuel Pelligrini — I’d love this guy to come over to United because he seems to get so much out of rejects and potentially good players. I know there is little chance of that happening, plus I’m not sure if he speaks English. This Villarreal coach has got the best out of players like Riquelme (although he did fallout later on) and an ageing Robert Pires — not to mention, Diego Forlan and Rossi. He also seems to have excellent contacts as he seems to have an eye on the bargain buys.
There, those were some of my candidates. Now your turn…
* * *
The entire press corps are running with the story that United have lodged a £20 million bid for Dimitar Berbatov. Not entirely sure if Spurs would be interested to sell for that much. But there are reports that the lily whites might settle for something in that region because they may need to raise some cash for buying Espanyol’s Luis Garcia. So two and two add up to umm… something. I don’t know, and I don’t care. I’d stick with: show me the money (or rather, show me a transfer) before I even begin to care. At the moment though, the press can wet themselves wild with speculation. I’ll read them for my own err, reading pleasure. There may be some merit to the story, but let’s wait and watch.
Back to the topic, assistant managers… I want assistant managers! Go on, give us a shout.
Related items from Red Rants:- United’s £100k+ Christmas party, useless Shorey, Arsenal will stumble and of course, Rooney is better than Kaka
- Should United keep Brown?
- Manchester United’s Munich tribute on 6 Feb 2008
- Who is your Manchester United’s Player Of The Month for November?
- The Doomsday Scenario
Tags: Discussions
July 12th, 2008 at 10:21
What about some of our other old boys, possibly Keano he has done well with Sunderland granted his tactic has been buying our old players. I think we could be able to pry Brucey from Wigan with a big enough offer, the only problem with that is that the Wigan owner loves Bruce.
July 12th, 2008 at 10:22
The people you suggested are Managers, why would they move down to be Assistants? Even if any of them were appointed they would leave at the earliest opportunity of a top level management job… (apart from Cantona that is) I think we should get the Swansea dude
July 12th, 2008 at 10:49
no one ca equal cq.period.we need someone from within.rene?the portuguese or spanish will come later coz at the moment we need continuity.and fuck ronaldo
July 12th, 2008 at 11:00
July 12th, 2008 at 11:20
what a summer. Im kinda concerned bout carlos leaving…..surely its a terrible thing?
Cant see anyone being able to swoop in and do his job straight away?
what a fuck up. OH yeah……FUCK RONALDO.CUNT
July 12th, 2008 at 11:35
Personally, i wouldn’t like to see an outsider come in as a No.2 or even when SAF leaves. The reason we have such a great team sprit is cuz of that continuity and I would like to see CQ coach ManUtd when SAF leaves. I believe this Portugal job would provide him with that experience of managing at the top-tier and he’ll return to take the helm when SAF leaves. For now, if there is an insider worthy of takin that No.2 role for a lenghty period(even after SAF is gone)then fine. However, if there isn’t then I reckon we get an outsider that is approved by both SAF and CQ and has those qualities you mentioned. He can get to know the workings of the club while SAF does most of the work and also preps him for CQ’s return.
July 12th, 2008 at 11:36
1)Martinez
2)Pako Ayesteran
3)Michael Laudrup
4)Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s
5)Roy Keane
6) and for fun Hiddik
July 12th, 2008 at 11:52
Zinedine Zidane
July 12th, 2008 at 11:55
The qualities you mentioned are the ones that only carlos has.i cant think of anyone else.so there may be a surprise waiting for us.but i do think someone inside the club will get the job for now.
July 12th, 2008 at 12:00
zinedine zidane…
July 12th, 2008 at 12:09
Franck Rijkaard is an interesting option. He could be brought in as an assistant manager and pushed into the manager role when Fergie leaves. He’s got plenty of experience, with great teams and great players. Has had success in many competitions including the Champions’ League. He is also a very attacking minded manager. He seems to me to be very tactically astute. And also, he must have good connections in Holland as well as in other countries where he has managed. Now, maybe he wouldn’t accept an assistant role, but if promised a managing role in the future he might be tempted. But of course my first choice for assistant manager is Grognard!
July 12th, 2008 at 12:16
realistically: mclair
probably: Ayesteran
hopefully: blanc
long shot: mclaren
fantasy: king eric
Irony: darren fergie
July 12th, 2008 at 12:18
Beeing from Denmark I have been following Michael Laudrup in Getafe, and he did a good job. But I don’t think he has the man management qualities required for a job as ass. in MU. He is a very quiet and withdrawn man, and had other hired to do the nursing of the players.
Pako Ayesteran is my first choice, even though he is former Liverpool.. I read that one of the reason he left was because Rafa didn’t like the fact that he was friend with Mourinho. Which of course is no advantage for him. I cant really tell why I like him, but I just think he has the skills for the job.
July 12th, 2008 at 12:20
..what a strange season!
i think this is a chance for Roy keane to come in.
July 12th, 2008 at 12:43
I’ll put myself forward…
I’m a tactical genius according to my sunday football team.
I have lots of experience in playing and coaching…(not at pro level tho)
well I couldn’t be a father figure(bit young for that) but how an older brother figure?
I know a fair number of languages… Gujarati, Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, English, Swahili, French, Spanish…learning italian at the moment…been told that portugese shouldn’t be a problem to learn as I know spanish and a bit of italian. I want to learn German as well at some point. also know bits and pieces of arabic.so it shouldn’t be a problem keeping the portubrazil contingent happy or for that matter any other player as I have experienced various cultures.
I feel I have the right quality for manchester united.
Connections
now we talking…I have connections all over the place…India, south america, Italy and the very untouched east african region which has some really good raw football talent.(I want to start a football academy in Kenya but thats some way off..some day :))
dealing with the media? I wouldn’t mind dealing with the famously notorious british press. hmm…I guess I could try and sort them out.
another bonus would be that as I’m a united fan I would be one your own.
oooh and this ones for redranter…I mention your website address in every one of my press interviews.
so how about me?
July 12th, 2008 at 12:54
Think about it lads, Zidane can speak spanish, french, Italian and I think English, he was one of the most admired and respected players of his generation and would probably be a good attraction for young players who I imagine would love to work under him and the fact that he has been linked with a few vacant managerial posts would indicate to me that he must have thoughts of getting into management, what better place to start than at United under the best manager of all time.
July 12th, 2008 at 13:12
Great resume Sagar! Looks like you its between you and Zidane/Rijkaard(both my preferences) Question is though, will Rijkaard be willing to be assistant manager after all those glory years at Barcelona? Doesnt matter that that tenure ended in shite, but he will still think that he has been at the helm at one of the biggest clubs in the world, he will probably think its a step down or something. He would be a fool to think so, however. CQ went on to become the Portugal boss only because he grew working with the one and the only SAF
July 12th, 2008 at 13:30
God Bless Pele!
Finally someone speaks sense and supports us! link
July 12th, 2008 at 13:30
Roy Keane!
Reasons: United legend. Experienced with Sunderland(2 good seasons). He is a winner. A good motivator. A leader. Young enogh to become Fergies replacement when he retires. Knows Fergie. Can get the best out of players(Miller, Jones and Yorke). Ronaldo would be afraid to talk about his future with Keano there!
July 12th, 2008 at 13:40
Pele- You speak sence! Finally a known person in football talks sense about the Ronaldo mess. Blatter is against us, Platini and Maradona too. I have always admired Pele, a true legend in football. If Ronaldo wants to be a known legend in football like Pele, LEARN HOW TO BE LOYAL!
July 12th, 2008 at 13:41
Most of these guys already have managerial positions and I doubt they’d want to step down even if it was to join United and work with Fergie. I am guessing it will be an internal appointment or Pako.
July 12th, 2008 at 14:08
While Roy Keane would be my first choice, he seems content and happy at Sunderland. I also hope he can stay and help the club grow and possible replace Fergie. He has done a fantastic job getting quality players at a club who can’t afford much. With a big purse, an entire fan base behind him from the start, I think he could be a great replacement for Fergie. But I wouldn’t mind Mulestine (sorry if i butchered the spelling) he is a quality coach who has been at the club for years and has been running training sessions for a long time. One thing is for sure, someone who can earn the respect of the players.
July 12th, 2008 at 14:18
What about Jose Peckermann?
July 12th, 2008 at 14:32
my choice, would be a foreigner for sure, a confident person, has to have a tactical mind but plays attacking football. i think we will promote from our ranks as a temporary replacement. i doubt fergie will retire in a few years now.
check this video out, it shocked me. http://play1.wm.manutd.servecast.net/manutd/video/178682.wmv
July 12th, 2008 at 14:40
wats shocking dan???
July 12th, 2008 at 14:41
Finally United are back platin football. It deels like Moscow was yesterday, but I have been longin to see United play. United team vs Aberdeen:
Amos
Neville(finally!)
Brown
Vidic
Silvestre
Fletcher
Carrick
Scholes
Martin
Giggs
Rooney
United to win 2-0 with 2 Rooney goals. COME ON YOU REDS!
July 12th, 2008 at 14:44
@Peterson: the fact that they put the terry slip at no.1, i wouldnt expect that from a club like united.
July 12th, 2008 at 14:50
Fergie said: “Rio has got a back injury, nothing serious, but its not worth risking him.”
July 12th, 2008 at 14:51
@dan(u-ol): Ha-ha, thats funny! Saw it some time ago, and it shockied me…. but in a good way.
July 12th, 2008 at 15:22
Wow, I forgot how joyous it was watching Paul Scholes. I know the opposition aren’t phenomenal, but his touch is simply sublime.
Oh and Rooney has been through on goal twice and fluffed them both. Good to see nothing changes
July 12th, 2008 at 15:46
Carrick pen…1-0 half time
July 12th, 2008 at 15:47
Not very high tempo stuff, but gorgeous pass from Carrick. Probably a penalty to Rooney though he looked like botching another 1 on 1.
Wonder what odds on Carrick being first scorer of the year were
July 12th, 2008 at 15:47
Rooney looks faaaatt…he was brought down
July 12th, 2008 at 15:47
Aberdeen 0-1 United, Carrick penalty; 45.
Well, well Carrick scores another pen! Two penalty shootout goals, and now another penalty right into the bottom rigth-hand corner. Uncatchable! If Ronaldo leaves, then Carrick might be our penalty taker.
July 12th, 2008 at 15:52
Hope Rooney plays well after his holiday stuff…
July 12th, 2008 at 16:15
Any links guys?
July 12th, 2008 at 16:19
http://www.justin.tv/widgets/jtv_live.r7790.swf?channel=pehtv
July 12th, 2008 at 16:19
any place where we can watch the game on the net guys? thanks
July 12th, 2008 at 16:20
try this Kal - works for me.
link
July 12th, 2008 at 16:53
so…2 from Carrick then?
July 12th, 2008 at 16:58
N rooney
July 12th, 2008 at 16:58
eagles, just looks lost, we didnt give him a chance earlier on(in his career) and now it shows, he hasnt developed as a footballer and its time for him to be sold.
campbell, if campbell gets sold, i think thats it, not a chance of a star coming out our academy, no point at all. he was that damn good for the few minutes he came on.
hewson, looks like a more aggressive version of carrick which is goo, we should keep an eye on him.
gibson did ok, not bad but not eye opening either.
and simpson was great also.
amos looked very cal and assured in the box, we should keep an eye on him also.
all in all, a good match, best thing of summer so far.
July 12th, 2008 at 17:00
Score?
July 12th, 2008 at 17:01
@Fred The Red: The same Zinedine zidane who was assisting Real Madrid to tapp up Ronaldo and who went to the Spanish press and said that Ronaldo should leave United and come to Barcelona because they are a superior organization and family. That Zinedine Zidane?
July 12th, 2008 at 17:02
0-2 united.
July 12th, 2008 at 17:10
@Daniel: We are in a situation where we are presently at war with FIFA and Real Madrid over their tampering with our best player who we have under contract for 4 years. Now you suggest that we go after managers who themselves are under contract with their clubs. Just how hypocritical are we supposed to get and how bad do you want United to look to the media , the EPL and the rest of the World. Keane and Bruce are under contract as is Ronaldo. All Fergie can do in that situation is ask the owners of the team’s if they would be willing to sell their manager. If they say no, as I am 100% sure they would, that’s it. United cannot be looked at as hypocrites at this time. They are trying to make a statement to the entire footballing world that tapping up players or managers is wrong and that players as well as managers need to live up to the contracts they sign. This kind of business practice must not be condoned so please, forget about Keane and Bruce no matter how great a candidates they may seem.
July 12th, 2008 at 17:33
@Kurt: How can one argue with logic like that? Your first choice to be #2 is truly an inspired one and I for one certainly concur. That bloke has vision, passion, tactical and strategic savvy and can swear in four different languages. He also has the balls, ego and stubbornness to challenge Fergie and stand up for his beliefs. This would ensure that the Boss stay alert and keep on his toes. Above all, he is a master with the media and can throw back the insults and easily make BBC hate him as well. His dislike for Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and especially Real Madrid is now legendary and very few I feel, can question his love and loyalty for United. Above all he is able to instill loyalty to the club by using a polo mallet and a long sock filled with manure and a loud obnoxious voice that can scream instructions as well as pound out discipline. And finally, he enjoys a glass or two or three of fine wine so Fergie will have a drinking buddy. He is very schooled at using the Internet and especially NewsNow to scour the globe for possible player signings and has totally mastered the art of player evaluation having had well over 1000 hours on FIFA 08. Who better than the Grognard to be #2? Hell, need I even say he would be a top candidate for the #1 chair in 2 or 3 years too. Great selection there Kurt. He won’t forget your support should he get the job and he needs a #3.
July 12th, 2008 at 17:47
Haha, one small comment and a huge response like that. Quite an impressive resume you’ve got there. Over 1000 hours of FIFA 08 is automatic qualification for a managerial position in any league.
Sadly, I’ve probably got over 2000 hours of FIFA 08 myself.. 
July 12th, 2008 at 17:50
@Riisboll (DK): A coach does not have to be loud and animated to get his message across. In fact, Carlos Queiroz was also a very quiet and under assuming fellow. The advantages of Laudrup far outweigh the disadvantages myself. For me he ticks all the boxes and what is most important of all is his tactical and technical ability coupled with his ability to speak many languages. Having played in Spain, Germany and Italy, he is able to communicate with players from the top leagues in Europe as well as young players who speak Spanish. He helps open up United’s window to other opportunities which have up to now been ignored. Germany, Denmark and other northern European countries who remember him and respect him well. Speaking their language gives us an advantage in signing players from there as well. And lets not forget that he did a fantastic job with Getafe. A team with no budget to buy quality players yet a team that played a technically savvy brand of football and was never unprepared or incapable of adapting on the fly. For me,he is our man.
My list of preferences is small and to the point.
1. Laudrup
2. Blanc
3. Solksjaer
4. Gus Poyet (if available)
5. Ayesteran
And my guilty pleasure but probably the most qualified for the job is of course the Grognard.
July 12th, 2008 at 17:54
@Kurt: Yes but the other 1000 hours I spend ranting on this blog and building the reputation and CV that is required for the job, not to mention the thousands of hours watching games and the other 1000 hours playing Football Manager 08. Did I mention the fact I also look very good in a trench coat and scarf.
And your 1000 hours on FIFA 08 has just guaranteed you the job as my personal assistant coach. FIFA 08 players need to stick together now don’t we?
July 12th, 2008 at 17:59
@Fred The Red: Zidane is also a bleeding heart 100% Real Madrid supporter and alumni. He is loyal and faithful to them and has no interest in insulting them by moving over to what has now become their number one enemy in the game. His allegiance lyes elsewhere. And have you ever heard him speak English? It’s terrible.
July 12th, 2008 at 18:05
@Grognard: Just wondering, but I’m supposing you’ve played some FIFA 08 as United. What formation and line-up do you prefer in the game? I’ve gone through so many formations looking for a great one. And also, do you find that custom formation kind of suck compared to the built-in game formations? Sorry if this is really out of place guys.
July 12th, 2008 at 18:11
@RedDevil: Roy Keane is not worldly enough. He cannot speak any language but English and like Fergie, sometimes that’s even debatable. He does not nor has he shown to have the technical and tactical genius or ability to cope with the European game or with the game our top opponents play. Remember, playing under a genius does not automatically qualify you as one yourself. I personally do not think that Bruce, Keane or Hughes are strong enough technically to handle the trials and tribulations of the continental game like Queiroz was. Fergie could not have done it without Queiroz. His stamp on this team should never be underestimated and his relationship with all the foreign players was a key component. Keane is very aloof and he does not get close to players and cannot command their attention or their respect if he cannot speak their language. I certainly cannot see Tevez, Anderson, Nani and the twins feeling any sense of comfort or understanding with him. He’s also a hot head and his temper is more suited for being the boss, not a #2. I could see him exploding and causing Fergie to sack him. Don’t get me wrong, I love the man and he is one of my all time favorites. And if this team wanted to go in a totally different direction where they never looked for Latin players or played such a European/Brazilian hybrid style, then I would consider him. The thing is, he would have been a perfect #2 during the years he was actually playing. Back then we were still rooted in British style of football. Things have changed big time since then. He needs to get more experience and broaden his horizons before I’d even consider him on my list. Believe it or not, right now Eric Cantona probably ticks more of the boxes than Keane does and Cantona has no coaching experience. It’s a changing game and environment and old school British ideas are for the birds I’m afraid.
July 12th, 2008 at 18:29
Gus poyet would be great…Cantona…err, not so sure about that, lack of experience as an asst. for coaching maybe great
Keano is one we should talk about
how bout Ronald Koeman ? or Eusebio ?
July 12th, 2008 at 18:39
@Kurt: The formation I find best suits United with their current squad is 4-2-2-2 or 4-1-4-1. This team’s best asset is the speed and skill they have on their wings. It’s very obvious on FIFA 08 and I try to play without a central midfield emphasis up front. Scholes and Carrick are total lead foots in the game and trying to get any movement from them up front is difficult. I constantly cut in with Nani and Ronaldo and I supply more crosses if I use Giggs, Park or Fletcher. Everything starts with Evra and Ronaldo on the left side and I like to use a lot of 1-2’s and overlaps. When I get Evra or Ronaldo to cross it’s usually a low cross as we have nobody other than Ronaldo who is a good header of the ball in the game. Hargreaves is my lone CDM in 4-1-4-1 and he is partnered with Carrick most times in 4-2-2-2. Unfortunately for Scholes fans, he is usually alternates with Carrick in games and poor Fletcher and Anderson hardly gets a chance to start as I am unwilling to ever sit Hargo down. Hargo’s range and ability to win the ball in FIFA is legendary. The other reason I find it absolutely necessary to work the ball up using my fullbacks and wingers is that FIFA’s game design is poor when it comes to through balls up the middle or lofted finesse passes through the middle. Just to rigid and player’s true abilities never seem to come in to play here.
As for custom formations, I have to disagree a bit there. I personally never play without customizing my formation as well as the individual player instructions. I feel it makes a world of difference in how the team and the individuals react. If for example you don’t set arrows directing a striker to attack the goal, he is capable of being all over the place and never being where he is supposed to be when a ball is sent into the box. I think Fergie has not done this because both Tevez and Rooney are all over the place but rarely where they are supposed to be.
I also like moving liking moving Evra up to a more traditional LWB role and I find that by doing this, he is much more involved in the attacking end of things and only if you do this while setting up his positional arrows to go forward will you get him to resemble his real life play. Individual direction arrows for layers is more key than the custom formations. My fullbacks never have an arrow point backwards or in a defensive position. They are given a MEDIUM defensive responsibility and are free to move forward. It’s my Center Backs who have HIGH defensive responsibility and who have arrow pointing backwards towards the keeper. As for Ronaldo, his arrows move towards the middle of the field and towards the opposing keeper. I do not position his arrows towards the corner flag as he is not there to cross balls in. I do however allow one arrow for Nani to go towards the corner flag as he is better at crossing.
One last thing. I quite often tinker with squads and will bring on board players who I like to see how they play in A United lineup and scheme. By playing Rooney just outside the box and in a CF position I have had great success with Klaas Jan Huntelaar. His aggressiveness in the box and his power is awesome but his presence does truly allow more freedom and room for Rooney to prowl. When Tevez is in there, things are far more tight and never seem to cause as many shots or as much problems for the opponents in the box. Also, when I have played Berbatov, I use him in the CF position and Rooney more up front because of Berbatovs fantastic skill with the ball, his passing and finesse. Still, I find he moves around a little slow and like in real life he just disappears for long stretches. Then out of nowhere he gets the ball and BAM, GOAL. Itis a problem though for players like Riquelme and Berbatov to use their extensive finesse passes and through balls in this game as the game’s analog design is just to rigid and the players individual abilities cannot seem to overcome this weakness in game design. A power game always works best and therefore Ronaldo for me as well as Huntelaar, Ballack, Klose and Toni are Gods in FIFA 08. Another favorite of mine Arshavin seems slow and his response time not good enough in this game. Things that make you go HMMMM? Sorry for the long rant.
July 12th, 2008 at 18:43
@Wisena: Ronald Koeman is an interesting choice. Never thought about him but he might do well as he has a great influence with Spanish football and of course his Dutch roots. I also believe he speaks German and his English I believe is good. As for Cantona, hire him as a coach and let him get his experience with the reserves and perhaps in a few years he can be something more. The man is a genius and he has great love and passion for the team and the game. His attitude is that of a winner and he is tactically and technically well versed with experience playing in both the continent and in England. But he is not #2 material yet.
July 12th, 2008 at 19:17
@Grognard: Love the FIFA comments mate. I’ve recently been trying a 4-2-3-1 with the original squad, this is to compensate for our short strikers on crosses and to play more through the middle. Although you are absolutely right, wing play is so much easier than through balls in the game it’s ridiculous. Thanks for the pointers on arrow usage in custom formations.
July 12th, 2008 at 20:33
My FIFA 08: I play a 4-2-3-1 with Cassillas in goal. I use Evra and Brown as wing-backs cause I like to overlap. My Centre back partnership is af cource Rio and Vidic. No one gets a chance at goal with that back four. Carrick and Hargreaves are Defensive mids, Carrick just a little in front of Owen. Anderson is not good defensivly in the game so I use hi in the middle next to Nani/Ronaldo and Tevez/Rooney. I use either Rooney or Villa up front.
My play is based on speed and tecnique. Most of my goals come from low crosses from Nani/Ronaldo and Evra, Tevez or Rooney coming in from the left to score with a far post header or volley. I agree with Groggy that Owen is a master getting the ball and making things happen. Carrick is a pass master that often scores form long range. Nani takes corners and hits the ball like a rocket, so hard crosses for him are deadly. Evra is fast and a good crosser of the ball, Brown is mainly defensive, but he gets many assists for me. Anderson can shoot, pass and take on players to open room and make an amazing thruogh pass. Rooney can do almost everything so he is my main attacking weapon. If I use him up front, then Tevez is on the right. If I use him on the right, he can cut inside, make a placed shot into the far corner from 25 yards or cross for Villa to finish.
Nani and Carrick takes corners, Hargreaves and Tevez takes short free kicks, Nani and Hargreaves when I cross. Anderson and Carrick takes penalties. Anderson is my main man to create goals, but Rooney works well. In the game Anderson gets tired quikly, so I must sub him a lot. Scholes and Giggs play instead of him when he is injured, suspended or tired. I am yet to lose a game on legendary(682 games unbeaten!) and I am on top of the league in my 6th season. Won every possible trophy every season. Rooney is top scorer with 32 goals after 21 games, Villa behind with 23.
Anyone thinks they can beat me?
July 12th, 2008 at 20:48
RUBBISH…4-4-2.End of!The best formation by far.Ronaldo and Nani on the flanks.Rooney and Tevez upfront and Andi and Hargo in the middle,and I must say contrary to real life evidence Andi has a superb long range shot in the game.Hope to see a bit of it next season.
July 12th, 2008 at 21:31
@Kurt: One thing that I would add that I do to give my players a little bit of a bite. In the edit mode I go to the goalkeeper section and I make every players skill attributes go to 0. Then I take those extra points and distribute them where I think the player needs them most and where I feel the game has incorrectly graded the player. This will add either a point or two to player’s skill level and for me it’s not cheating because I’m sorry but all these players will never play goal and goalkeepers never seem to get injured. Yes a red card is possible but I always leave a defender or two with those goalkeeper rating as is just in case. The best one for this is John O’Shea. His goalkeeping rating are better than many keepers in the Coca Cola League.
I also reduce Anderson’s finishing and long shot ratings because lets face it, the lad has a terrible shot and he has a hard time even getting on goal yet alone scoring. A rating of 72 for finishing is just ridiculous. I reduced it to 60 and used those extra points for his defensive skills as well as his dribbling which is strong.
I have played the FIFA series of games for years and I consider myself an excellent player in Semi-Pro and Professional settings but the one thing I have not been able to master over the last three versions of the game is the free kicks. I rarely score and the only time I ever really threaten or do score is if I press the LB button and drive the ball. With Ronaldo it’s not bad or with Gerrard or Ballack because they have velocity. But the finesse free kick artists like Roquelme, Beckham, Ribery, Diego really struggle to even get the ball over the wall. I have tried everything but nothing seems to work. I cannot seem to control the bend, the height of the ball. The only thing I am good at is not over hitting it. Very poor and very frustrating feature in the game. But of course the AI on the computer is half decent at hitting them even if it’s a total tosser taking the shot. I also think the game has very weak goalkeeping AI. EVDS just sucks in this game as do most of the keepers in the game except for three. Buffon, Cassilas and Cech seem to do well whether you are playing with them or against them. If any of you have any suggestions on how to do better on free kicks, by all means please let me know. I could use that help as I find it very frustrating that I can master a game so well, yet that one element seems to constantly betray my efforts I remember about 4 or 5 years ago the free kick tool was fun and perhaps too easy to score with. Now it’s like Pro Evolution’s version, impossible and poor mechanics.
July 12th, 2008 at 21:44
@RedDevil: You sound like you know what you are doing and I agree 100% about low hard crosses coming in from the left side. And Carrick does surprisingly score quite a few long range specials. In fact he scored a 30 yard knuckler yesterday for me as he caught the keeper slightly off the line. I like to play Rooney slightly left of the goal so that he can move slightly to his right in using his right foot to score. But nobody rules in this game the way Ronaldo does. All his skills are there to use and his heading and aggressiveness is dead on. I deleted him from my new league season and drafted Berbatov Ramos and Robinho. I’m using the theory that Ronaldo goes to Real and those two players are what we get in return. So far Ramos impresses in the game but I am not that happy or used to playing with Robinho and he is sucking a bit. Berbatov is classy but the game really limits him as the through ball techniques and finesse tools are blocky an inaccurate. As a scorer of beautiful and classy goals, he is up there. And as to whether I can beat you, I probably could give you a good go but it’s hard to tell. Consider this, I probably own around 30 XBOX 360 games yet FIFA 08 is the game I play all the time. The hours I have put into all the versions is in the thousands and I have fried four systems in the process. The game is designed here in Vancouver and I know one of the developers who works there for EA Canada. Two years ago I gave him a two page list of things they need to do to improve the game and he took it and promised to discuss it with the design team. I have to say that this year’s game has incorporated many improvements and added a few features that I know were on my list. Still, there are things I would like changed that have not been followed up on. I’ll keep my fingers crossed and keep nagging my friend. God I need to get a life.
July 12th, 2008 at 21:46
@Ishaq(South Africa): Why do you call our thoughts and playing styles “RUBBISH”? That’s pretty rude if you ask me.
July 12th, 2008 at 21:54
@Grognard: You sound just like me!
I spend too much tme playin FIFA 08, but lets face it, its a really cool game! I found a way to edit Ronaldo to 99 on XBOX 360. Listen up. Every time you go to edit Ronaldo he has a low consentration maras yes. Make it no and super sub and leadership come up. Mark them as no and you get 1000 experince points. Continue to do that till you make every attacking, skill, movement and so on 99. Then sell him for £101,000,000! Buy Villa(92), Casillas and Anotehr player that is awsome and you have replaced Ronaldo. Simple as that. It will take some time to make ROnaldo stats 99, but its worth it.
BTW, I edited Anderson stats to make finsihing and long range shots both 65. I made all passing and vision 99 And I made him better defensivly. Anotehr things that works is not only the goalkeeper stats, but the players that you dont use to take free-kicks, make free kicks 1. It wokspretty damn well!
Hope this helped some of you.
July 12th, 2008 at 22:06
my formation in fifa is basically a 4-1-1-4/4-2-4/4-1-5. my line up is as follows:
)
adler(sorry grognard
cadibler/ramos-RB
negueme-CB
torres/ramos CB
lahm-CB
kobhishavinal-CM(best cm in the game i would say at the tender age of 17)
nasri-CAM
ronaldo/fortune-RW
fortune/messi/ronaldo-LW
messi/bojan-CF
gomez/tsoulkas-ST
half of my team is unknown because im like 12 seasons into the game. Honestly, i could by ANY player i wanted now, i think the lowest rating in my squad is 81, and he’s out on loan
. i love my squad, because i could sell my entire first team, and still have enough and good enough players in my ranks to win the league.
Get thte gamertags out lads, we should start a league to see who’s best
July 12th, 2008 at 22:08
What happened to Rooney Dan?
July 12th, 2008 at 22:25
how do you think i got all that cash RD
for the second half of my second season(when i took over united from spurs) bojan and rooney where my preferred striker partnership instead of messi and rooney, i lacked height and a clinical finisher so for quite a few sasons i was signing and selling strikers unitl i found the right one, i signed tsoulkas, who was a tall lanky guy who was only about 18 at the time, he was my star striker for that season, but he couldnt head the ball for shit, so i signed gomez(who happend to be a free agent) and he has been the striker ive wanted for the last couple of seasons, i still have tsoulkas, but he plays like once every 3 months to be honest.
July 12th, 2008 at 22:59
Michael Laudrup
July 12th, 2008 at 23:18
@RedDevil: Very interesting regarding Ronaldo of FIFA 08. But since I now hate him I will not do anything to make him better thanks. I already have done what you say regarding players who don’t take free kicks. I don’t go down to 1 but I bring it down quite a bit. But I don’t do it to penalty taking because you never know when you may be in a penalty shootout. You don’t want 7 or 8 guys with 1’s at that point. Free kicks are the only area where I really would like a tip or two.
I just played Man Utd vs Aston Villa with my new look United which included Berbatov, Ramos and Robinho. Just awesome. 5-0 on the road. Berbatov scored to absolute stunners and set up Rooney for one of his two while Robinho who was quiet all game had one great moment where he scored. And who does the game pick as the player of the game? Hargreaves. He was his usual stellar ball winning self and graded an 8 but Berbatov was just magic in this game. Rooney’s second goal was actually a one time effort from a Carrick through ball that worked. It was lovely. Villa had a few chances but against my defense, they lack the quality up front to make a difference. A case of art imitating life. Hey we’re all bored as Hell, might as well talk FIFA 08 right?
July 12th, 2008 at 23:39
@Grognard: Yeah ur right! When the biggest news is that United are interseted i in Berbatov then FIFA 08 is not a bad talking point. If you want to learn how to take great free kicks then I can really help you. I score on 75% of the free kicks I get that are 35 or less yards from goal. Now, what player do you use to take free kicks? Its kinda important…
July 12th, 2008 at 23:42
Well, if you use Juninho then “The Curler” is best.
If you use Ronaldo then “The Dip” is the best option.
Roberto Carlos, Scholes, Ballack and Riquelme are exellent on “Power-kicks”
And Beckham does everything exellent!
July 12th, 2008 at 23:43
all this fifa talk is bull. Pro Evolution 2008 is currently the best football game in the market. excellent game and if you ask me fifa 08 cannot compare
July 12th, 2008 at 23:48
“The curler”
The player that takes the free kick must a) if right foot look 3 fingers to the right of where you want to get the ball. b) if left foot, the player must look 3 fingers to the left of where you want the ball to go. When press B, the left stick must be turned to the left if right foot, and right if left foot. You should do some practice before you start games.
When should use: When the wall is outside the box, you should hit it. But if the wall is to the right of the keeper of your watch,then you can use it everywhere.
July 12th, 2008 at 23:48
@dan(u-ol): Sounds like you have quite the organization there Dan my boy. And no need to apologize over Adler. He’s a fine keeper but for me Neuer is better and if we are looking past German’s Boruc is King. Of all the players I have played on FIFA 08 Ronaldo is king but if I went beyond him and picked an all star 11 at each position based on their abilities in the game and in a standard 4-4-2 formation they would be as follows;
GK; CECH/CASSILAS tie (Most of the time I play against them and they make some absolutely mind numbing saves and their reflexes?
RWB; LAHM (Play him left or right he is a great dribbler and passer and has great pace to overlap)
CB; VIDIC (His usual self but with even more tackling ability)
CB; DEMICHELIS (A surprise but he is always a great tackler and passer of the ball)
LWB; ABIDAL (Sorry Evra fans, this one bugs me too but he is awesome in FIFA 08)
RMF; RONALDO (It doesn’t matter where you play and what kind of tactics you use, the motherfucker is awesome)
CDM; HARGREAVES (Plays as advertised. He is a rock and the fastest and most awesome ball winner in the game. Good skills too)
CAM; LAMPARD (I hate his guts but he is a goal scoring machine. I’d like to say Ballack or Riquelme as they are good too but Frank wins)
LMF; RIBERY/RONALDINHO (Ribery is fast and clever and delivers great balls. Ronaldinho is on the international box and his stats are skewed to make him look better than he is. If you like tricks and moves, he’s your man. If you like pace and passes, Ribery’s your boy.)
ST; KLOSE (Unlike real life where he can totally evaporate from a game, I find him very skillfull and a lethal finisher. Great header.)
ST; ROONEY (No home bias here. His work rate and hustle rewards you in this game and he is a much more lethal finisher here than in real life. He’s also very good a winning the ball stealing a goal as well as a good short passer.
A few players that I find incredibly disappointing to play are Tevez, Messi, Aguero, Ibrahimovich, van der Sar (just sucks) and Kaka who although skillful, is way to slow and his reaction time is awful. Riquleme is still great although I can’t always take advantage of his passing and I suck at free kicks. Arshavin also suffers from lack of pace and reaction time which is funny because his rating in these areas is good. Remember that these ratings are based on many many hours but in truth, I don’t play every team and I do have teams and players I favor regardless of the game. Other great players I haven’t graded are because they are decent, or I have not played them enough to get a feeling for them.
July 12th, 2008 at 23:52
“The dip”
This is my favorite! This is best suited for right footed players. Hargreaves, Tevez, Sneijder and Ronaldo are best for this use. Look directly at where you want the ball to go. Then press just a little to the right, not too much. Then whenyou shoot, press theleft stick up and the ball will “Ronaldo dip” over the wall and into the top corner. Also exellent for corners and free kick crosses.
When to use: When the wall is outside the box. It wont work if the wall is too far out, so you need to try this lots of times.
July 12th, 2008 at 23:52
Oh and if you are looking for a master at corner kicks provided you are pretty good at setting them up, Riquelme is the man. He once got 4 assists for me from corners. He just knows how to find his targets despite my best effort s to screw up.
July 12th, 2008 at 23:55
@RedDevil: I am ost interested in Ronaldo (although I now wonder why I bother), Riquelme, Ribery and Ballack. Depending on the teams I play, these players are usually on them. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
July 13th, 2008 at 0:03
“Power kicks”
A shot that can curl with the outside of the foot, inside or just blast it hard! I scored one with Scholes from 45 yards once against Chelski, it was too far out for the keeper to put a wall up. I shot with the inside of his boot and the shot flew into the top corner. Cech was left hanging in thin air. Such a great goal… Errm, ho
This type can be used to many things. Players need good curve on their shots when they shoot, so the ball can curl rounf the wall. You cant hit it over, but under you can! This works like Ronaldos first vs Newcastle inn January, but you cant do it often. You have to shoot 6 high free kciks before you do this unless the wall wont jump. This only works 20 yards or less.
When you have free kicks near the corner flag, then try to hit it very weak to the 18 yard box. If you use a CM, then it will wait for it so he can shoot on the first touch. Carrick, Sneijder and Essien are masters of this!
When you have free kicks on the wings, hit for the area between the players waiting and the keeper. Hit it weak and low so the players can run to it and the keeper cant. I can promise you, you get at least a corner every time.
To do this “Power shot”, press the RB when you shoot.
When to use: All over the oppositions field, it can be used in various ways, just need time and patience.
July 13th, 2008 at 0:05
Ronaldo: “The Dip”
This is my favorite! This is best suited for right footed players. Hargreaves, Tevez, Sneijder and Ronaldo are best for this use. Look directly at where you want the ball to go. Then press just a little to the right, not too much. Then whenyou shoot, press theleft stick up and the ball will “Ronaldo dip” over the wall and into the top corner. Also exellent for corners and free kick crosses.
When to use: When the wall is outside the box. It wont work if the wall is too far out, so you need to try this lots of times.
This might help anyway! Good luck!
July 13th, 2008 at 0:09
@Mike: Pro Evolution blows chunks larger than the country it originates from. I used to be the greatest advocate of that game three or four years ago but the last two version have been just crap. Everything that made that game great has been gutted and it’s turned into an analog nightmare with the same old look and mechanics and nothing good about. It plays like a bloody kids arcade game. I want way more from my footy fix and that game just stinks. You should see my version for the game on the old XBOX. Back when it had a fantastic editing tool. I have recreated many fantastic leagues or competitions form the 70’s and 80′ like very authentic and realistic versions of the 1979 and 1980 Bundesliga, the 1974, 78 World Cups and 1996 European Championships as well as the 1999 EPL. I spent hundreds of man hours creating these teams from information gathered on database files, yearbooks (ex; KICKER and Rothman’s) video reference, and personal memory and knowledge etc. To be honest, it is a pretty impressive piece of work. When I see how my versions of Rummenigge, Muller, Beckenbauer, Netzer, Beckham, Gasgoigne, Klinsmann etc perform and look, I honestly applaud myself and feel that I should be running the show over at Konami rather than idiot presently in charge, SeaBass. Man the way that game has gone down hill while FIFA has steadily improved really pisses me off. I guess it really comes down to what a person is looking for. I’m looking for player and statistical accuracy and atmosphere, not a button masher arcade game that belongs in the bargain bin at EB for kids to grab. I also hate the cover. An arrogant picture of Ronaldo. YUK!
July 13th, 2008 at 0:13
I used to liek PES before…But FIFA 07 made me realise that it was better. It had atmosphere and realyplaying. It was more realistic. FIFA 4EVA!!