ClapWith both Everton and Arsenal knowing that they’ve got new managers coming in over the course of the next few days, you would think that they’d give it their all in this game in order to showcase what they’re capable of. Alas, as reported by BBC and The Guardian, with Mikel Arteta and Carlo Ancelotti watching on, both teams continued to prove why they’re in such desperate need for change in a massively disappointing goalless draw at Goodison Park.
Gabriel Martinelli and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had the best chances of the game, but it just wasn’t enough as these two giants of English football prepare for new eras within their respective clubs.
What a weird game
It was a game that felt like a slow descent into madness at times for the fans, so we can only imagine what the two new managers were thinking as they prepare for what is bound to be a tough road ahead.
Sure, there are going to be massive improvements made on either side, but perhaps just keeping hold of their star players is going to be the main focus given that the January transfer window is right around the corner.
Everton interim manager Duncan Ferguson had the following to say after the game.
“I think a point was fair. We struggled with energy levels and they probably had the better chances, but we’re happy with a point. The players dug deep today.
“I’ve enjoyed it but I knew it was going to be tough today. The boys were on their last legs to be honest, after working so hard in the past three games.
“We still covered every blade of grass – we just lacked a bit of quality in the final third.”
As dull as dishwater
“What he’s [Carlo Ancelotti] done in the game is incredible so I can’t wait to get started working with him. I’ll be here as long as the club want me here – so I’ll be back on Monday.”
Arsenal caretaker boss Freddie Ljungberg made the following remarks as his time in his current role nears its end.
“We dominated possession but we would have liked to get more out of it. We put a lot of young players out because I wanted to reward players who had trained well.
“I’ve learned a lot and it’s been a proud time for me to lead this amazing club. I knew I was interim manager to steady the ship and I feel like I’ve done that. It’s great the club has taken the decision and now we move forward.”
“Mikel knows the club very well – he’s been here a long time. The club has told me they want me to stay, so I will speak to Mikel tomorrow and go from there.”
It’s a fascinating time to be a fan of both clubs, but perhaps fascinating isn’t really what they’re looking for. Maybe, just maybe, they want something that feels a little bit more hopeful in the long run. Or is that too much to ask?
