[Paul]

Reading the other thread about Rafa's progress (or otherwise) over the last four years, it struck me how taken in we've become about the notion that football is a science. Now, I'm not dimissing tactics or fitness or even rotation out of hand, but am I alone in thinking that the simple game has been over-complicated to the point of confusion? I mean, isn't winning trophies fundamentally about getting the very best players you possibly can and then letting them go out and do their stuff?

A manager's role is clearly very important and the best managers maximise the impact that their players make. However, isn't it all a bit redundant if the players aren't good enough or if what he does actually impedes what they do, rather than helps them? I just think we're all far too ready to buy into the micro-managing philosophy of Rafa and too many people then use the most obscure point to defend what is pretty indefensible.

Obviously the above could be taken as a fundamental criticism of the manager that equates to me wanting him replaced. However, surely the fact that we have improved dramatically in the league since Rafa started to simplify his selections and play more of the best players more often adds further evidence to my point?

In short, I just want him to sign a couple of top quality players who will fit into the system he's been using so well and stick with it - and them - for most of next season. If he does that, I really think we will challenge for the title. If he doesn't, I think he'll be out of a job.