With the new football season on the horizon, I had the opportunity to catch up with the legendary Ron Manager, a figure synonymous with the sport. Known for his unique perspective and deep understanding of the game, Ron's thoughts on Sunderland and football in general provide a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a retired supremo.
Ron’s journey in football began at a young age with the Kidderminster Kids XI, where his passion for the game took root. He quickly ascended the ranks, playing for clubs like Hartlepool, North Shields Robins, and Redcar before unexpectedly landing the England managerial position. His extensive experience has made him a well-respected voice in the football community.
We chose a park bench for our meeting spot, allowing Ron to enjoy the serene environment while keeping an eye on the ducks. I opened the conversation by inquiring whether he still felt a pang of nostalgia as the season approached. “Oh yes, it never leaves you, does it? I think I was born reading the teleprinter,” he remarked, emphasizing the deep emotional connection many have with football. He elaborated on how the sport transcends mere competition, touching the hearts of fans and players alike.
As we discussed Sunderland's upcoming season, Ron expressed his enthusiasm about their participation in a European competition. However, he acknowledged the pressure that comes with it. “The first 90 minutes in any match are always the most important,” he said, offering a prediction that could go either way. Drawing on his experiences, he noted the necessity for teams to adapt to the English game, highlighting how Sunderland had managed to do so effectively last season. He humorously recalled his own managerial tactics, including loaning players to clubs like Lens or Bayern, to instill a competitive edge.
Ron also shared his thoughts on player mentality. “You don’t want your players to be monks. We want them to be better football players,” he stated, illustrating the importance of a balanced approach to discipline and creativity in the sport. He likened the dynamics of the Premier League to being either the tail of a lion or the head of a mouse, emphasizing that some players are content with different roles within the team structure.
Reflecting on his managerial career, Ron mentioned the introduction of the diamond formation, which he felt was misunderstood at the time. “Does anyone really know what it is?” he pondered, reminiscing about simpler tactical setups like Alf Ramsey’s Wingless Wonders. His self-deprecating humor shone through as he recalled some of the challenges he faced, including a player who seemed perpetually offside.
When asked about potential stars for Sunderland this season, Ron highlighted Enzo Le Fée as a player to watch. “Precious talent, isn’t he? He plays like football is an art,” Ron remarked, drawing parallels between football and dance, underscoring the beauty of skillful play.
As our conversation drew to a close, I inquired about his greatest career satisfaction. Ron fondly recalled the Brazilian teams of the 1970s, noting their free-spirited style of play that broke conventional molds. He contrasted this with the more structured approaches of his own early experiences in football.
In an amusing twist, Ron mentioned his dietary changes, joking about his vegetarianism while recalling a sausage roll he had eaten earlier. His light-hearted demeanor made for an enjoyable exchange, even as he began to drift off into his thoughts.
Before concluding, I asked Ron what advice he would give to Sunderland as they embark on this new season. His response was poignant: “To remind the players who they are. What is a club anyway? It’s the noise. The passion. It’s the feeling of belonging.” His words encapsulated the essence of football, reminding us all of the joy and community that the sport brings.
As I left Ron, his driver arrived, impeccably dressed in a long white coat and gloves, a fitting end to a whimsical yet insightful conversation with one of football's most colorful characters.
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