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Journalism of Courage
Apart from the trophies,it is the longevity of the last of the old-school managers
When Alex Ferguson was appointed manager of Manchester United in November 1986,he was taking over a club in decline. The glory years of the Busby Babes were a distant memory and United hadnt won the first division title in 20 years. Three years into his term and Ferguson was no closer to leading the side to the league title. In fact,United just about avoided relegation in 1988-89. It is widely regarded that at that point,Ferguson was only a loss or two away from getting sacked. The turnaround wasnt too far ahead. Fergusons shrewd signings and promotions from his youth squad finally paid off as United won the league title in 1992-93,in the Scots sixth year in charge. Ferguson would eventually go on to win 38 trophies,including 13 league titles,two Champions Leagues trophies and five FA cups during his time at United.
Last year,Roberto di Matteo,months after leading Chelsea to their first Champions League title,was shown the door. Jupp Heynckes might win the treble with Bayern,but will still be replaced at the end of this season. In the current economic climate of mounting debt,big expenditure and demanding owners,it is difficult to imagine a young Ferguson getting the same kind of leeway. If there will not be the likes of him again,then that is as much a testament to Fergusons uniqueness as an indictment of the direction the game has taken since.
