Nemanja Vidic believes managers taking charge of clubs in the Premier League, like his own Manchester United, can deliver with an understanding of the club history. He feels ex-players taking up team management are better equipped to handle expectations.
The former United captain, speaking on the sidelines of The Football Movement, also pointed out that modern club managers are judged on trophies won, leading to frequent changes at the top.
Jose Mourinho is the latest manager in the hot seat, struggling to live up to United’s reputation of winning major tournaments.
Replying to a query whether former player-turned-manager is a better option than famous managers thrust on the club, Vidic said: “Personally I think it is important (to understand) that Man United, as a club, has a history of the manager staying for 25 years, from Sir Alex (Fergusson) and Matt Busby before that. Managers stayed long, then tried to develop the club. We are in a different world now, the manager is changing all the time, he doesn’t get a chance to build something and has to depend much more on results than before.”
He added: “I think it will be great for (Manchester) United and fans to see someone in charge who understands the club’s history, character and try to take it forward from there.”
Looking at Mourinho’s struggle to establish himself in the eyes of the players and fans, the Serbian said: “We have been players, so know how players think. It helps a bit (in gaining acceptance).”
On former players like Ryan Giggs capable of doing what Zinedine Zidane accomplished at Real Madrid, Vidic replied, “When you have a career like Zidane (at Real Madrid), there is respect and, you get more chance to prove (yourself) in the beginning.”
Like many former players, the one-time legendary central defender is in the process of acquiring a coaching licence. Vidic confessed that playing and managing are entirely different.
“As a footballer, you know how to play and what you will like to play. This (managing) is a different kind of mentality. I am still in the learning mould, do not still see myself as a manager. It is quite different and I am looking forward to the learning process.”
Vidic’s one-time teammate at Man United, Wes Brown, is playing for Kerala Blasters FC in ISL season four.
“He is a utility defender and able to play different positions. He had a vital role in our Champions League win (Manchester United beat Chelsea in the 2007-2008 final at Moscow).”
The ISL is attracting coaches from Premier League and the Serbian is ready to look at a coaching offer in future.
“Of course, why not. Indian football is growing. My mentality as a manager will be to win as well as develop the sport. You never know what the future will bring. For the moment, I am looking to get as much knowledge as I can.”
