Feyenoord’s Leadership Void: A Growing Concern for the Rotterdam Giants
Recent performances by Feyenoord have highlighted a concerning lack of leadership within the squad, according to former player Ruben Schaken. Following a somewhat shaky second half against Telstar, Schaken pointed to a missing presence capable of galvanizing the team when facing adversity. This isn’t a new issue, but one that’s becoming increasingly apparent as the season progresses.
The Absence of Commanding Figures
Schaken contrasted the current situation with his own time at Feyenoord, recalling the influence of players like El Ahmadi and Clasie. These individuals weren’t afraid to deliver a “deadly kick” – a metaphorical wake-up call – when needed, effectively shifting the momentum and refocusing the team. He observed that this crucial “turning point” is rarely seen in the current Feyenoord setup, often resulting in performances that are either exceptionally good or entirely lacking.
The lack of on-field direction is further exacerbated by the reaction of the home crowd at De Kuip. Whereas passionate support is a hallmark of the club, Schaken notes that impatience can creep in when things aren’t going smoothly, potentially causing newer players to retreat into themselves. This dynamic, he argues, is not conducive to success for a top club.
Luciano Valente: A Leader in the Making?
Despite the current void, Schaken identifies Luciano Valente as a potential future leader. Having recently been awarded the iconic number 10 shirt, Valente is clearly viewed as a key player. However, Schaken cautions that the young midfielder still needs time to fully develop into the commanding figure Feyenoord needs. He acknowledges Valente’s impressive passing range and vision, but believes he needs to consistently impose himself on games to truly embody the leadership qualities expected of a player wearing that number.
Raheem Sterling’s Debut: Patience is Key
The arrival of Raheem Sterling has generated significant excitement, but his debut against Telstar didn’t immediately set the world alight. Schaken, however, urges fans and critics to exercise patience. He observed positive signs, including Sterling’s intelligent runs and lingering speed, despite his age. He also defended Sterling against criticism, refusing to participate in premature judgements, and highlighting the difficulty of making an immediate impact in a new league.
Schaken pointed out that assessing a player after just half an hour on the pitch is unfair, and that time is needed to allow Sterling to fully integrate into the team and showcase his abilities. He also alluded to the tendency of the media to quickly shift opinions based on short-term results.
The Broader Implications for Dutch Football
Feyenoord’s struggles with leadership aren’t isolated. Across Dutch football, there’s a growing debate about the development of players who can not only perform technically, but also inspire and motivate their teammates. The emphasis on tactical systems sometimes overshadows the importance of cultivating strong personalities and on-field commanders.
Pro Tip:
Developing leadership isn’t just about identifying natural leaders. It’s about creating a team culture that empowers players to take responsibility and hold each other accountable.
FAQ
Q: What specifically is missing from Feyenoord’s current team?
A: Ruben Schaken believes the team lacks a clear hierarchy and a player who can take charge and motivate the team when facing difficulties.
Q: Is Luciano Valente seen as the solution to this problem?
A: Valente is considered a potential future leader, but Schaken believes he still needs time to fully develop into that role.
Q: What is Schaken’s stance on the criticism of Raheem Sterling?
A: Schaken defends Sterling, urging fans and critics to be patient and allow him time to adapt to his new team and league.
Q: Why is the atmosphere at De Kuip potentially detrimental?
A: The passionate, but sometimes impatient, home crowd can set pressure on players, particularly new signings, causing them to hesitate or retreat into themselves.
Did you know? The number 10 shirt has a long and storied history at Feyenoord, traditionally worn by the team’s most creative and influential players.
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