Is This Manager Unwatchable or Irresistible?

Jose Bordalas, the manager of Getafe, is a polarising figure in Spanish football, often labelled a purveyor of 'anti-football' due to his pragmatic and defensive style. His approach, prioritising organisation and results over aesthetics, has sparked debates among fans and pundits alike. Despite the criticisms, Bordalas has established a remarkable record, guiding Getafe to European competitions with limited resources, proving that success in football can take many forms.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Jose Bordalas is known for his pragmatic, defensive style, often labelled 'anti-football'.
• He has achieved significant success with Getafe, leading them to European competitions on a limited budget.
• Bordalas' methods focus on structure, high pressure, and physicality.
• Despite criticisms, he has consistently overachieved with modest squads across his managerial career.
• His coaching style has sparked controversy, but also garnered respect from peers and players.

Understanding Jose Bordalas: A Managerial Profile

Jose Bordalas, at 61, has become synonymous with Getafe CF, a club he has managed for over 300 matches across two spells. His tenure has been marked by a stark contrast to the possession-based football often celebrated in Spain. While clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid embody elegance and flair, Bordalas champions a more robust, direct approach. His style is often described as suffocating to opponents but, for his players, it offers a pathway to success.

A Pragmatic Approach to Football

Under Bordalas, Getafe has developed a reputation for being difficult to play against. This is not merely a tactical choice; it is a reflection of his understanding of the players at his disposal and the limitations of the club's budget. He prioritises:

• High pressing to force opponents into mistakes.
• Organised defensive structures that prevent easy access to goal-scoring opportunities.
• Physical fitness and readiness to cover significant ground during matches.

These principles allow Bordalas to compete against teams with superior talent and resources, often turning the odds in his favour.

Impact on Spanish Football

Bordalas' impact on Spanish football has been profound, albeit contentious. His methods have drawn ire from some of the game's most respected figures. For instance, Xavi Hernandez, the legendary Barcelona midfielder turned manager, openly criticised Bordalas’ style after a match, stating, "Normal people don’t want to watch football like that." Such statements highlight the divide between purists, who favour aesthetic football, and those who appreciate results over style.

The Stats Behind the Style

The numbers tell a compelling story about Bordalas' effectiveness. Despite managing on a budget that typically places Getafe among the lower ranks of La Liga, he has consistently led the club to exceed expectations. His record speaks for itself:

• Third-highest number of wins in Spanish football history across the top three divisions.
• Guided Getafe into European football despite a wage bill often in the bottom third of La Liga.
• Generated significant income through player sales, totalling €83 million (£72 million).

These achievements underscore Bordalas' ability to maximise limited resources, turning Getafe into a competitive force.

The Man Behind the Methods

Bordalas' coaching philosophy extends beyond mere tactics. His training sessions can last up to three hours, significantly longer than the average. He places a strong emphasis on discipline and effort, with unique methods to motivate his players. For instance, he once challenged them to kick a ball to reach Madrid's M-50 motorway, offering a financial reward and a starting position to the successful player.

Training Regimen and Player Development

In Bordalas' regime, every detail matters. Players are weighed daily, and those who return from holidays overweight face additional challenges to meet fitness standards. His rigorous approach to training fosters a competitive atmosphere where players must constantly push their limits. This intensity can be overwhelming, but many former players, like Juan Cala, have credited Bordalas with helping them achieve peak performance during their careers.

Innovation Meets Tradition

Recently, Bordalas has embraced technology to enhance his coaching methods. By incorporating AI tools, he aims to analyse player positioning and create effective strategies for both offensive and defensive situations. This blend of traditional coaching techniques with modern technology illustrates his adaptability and willingness to innovate.

Success Stories: Players Transformed

One of the notable success stories under Bordalas is Christantus Uche. Originally a midfielder, Uche was transformed into a striker to address a squad shortage. After a successful debut and a productive season, he was sold to Crystal Palace for £17 million, demonstrating Bordalas' talent for player development and tactical flexibility.

The Dichotomy of Bordalas’ Leadership

While Bordalas is revered by Getafe fans, the realities of La Liga often present challenges. His teams have excelled, but financial constraints lead to roster holes and constant turnover. Getafe currently holds the unique position of having six empty squad slots, emphasising the club's struggles in maintaining a competitive edge.

Community and Support

Despite the pressures of management, Bordalas remains a beloved figure in the community. He is known for engaging with fans, often seen sharing coffee in the club cafeteria and providing financial assistance to those in need. This connection to the community reinforces his popularity and respect beyond the pitch.

Comparative Analysis: Bordalas vs. Contemporary Managers

In the realm of modern football, Bordalas stands apart from contemporaries like Diego Simeone, Carlo Ancelotti, and Zinedine Zidane. While these managers have also faced criticism, their successes have been bolstered by substantial resources. Bordalas, however, has consistently achieved remarkable results with limited means, showcasing his unique ability to adapt and thrive in challenging environments.

The Essence of Bordalas' Philosophy

Bordalas’ career is a testament to resilience, hard work, and an unwavering belief in his methods. His famous quote, "Esto es futbol, papa" (This is football, dad), encapsulates his defiance against critics who dismiss his style as unattractive. It serves as a rallying cry for those who appreciate the gritty, competitive nature of football.

What Lies Ahead for Bordalas and Getafe?

Bordalas’ future at Getafe remains an intriguing prospect. As the club navigates the complexities of La Liga, the ongoing challenge will be to maintain competitiveness while managing financial limitations. His ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial in the coming seasons, as he seeks to build a deeper squad capable of challenging for higher honours.

Conclusion: The Broad Spectrum of Football

Bordalas embodies a different side of Spanish football—one that prioritises grit and determination over glamour. While he may never lift La Liga or the Champions League, his success with Getafe illustrates that there is more than one way to achieve greatness in football. His journey reminds us that the beauty of the game lies not only in artistic play but also in the unyielding spirit of competition.

As football continues to evolve, managers like Bordalas remind us that success can be defined in many ways, and the game is broad enough to encompass various styles and philosophies. What will the next chapter hold for Bordalas and Getafe? #JoseBordalas #Getafe #SpanishFootball

FAQs

What is Jose Bordalas known for in football?

Jose Bordalas is known for his pragmatic coaching style, often labelled as 'anti-football', which prioritises organisation, defence, and results over aesthetic play.

How successful has Bordalas been with Getafe?

Bordalas has achieved significant success with Getafe, leading them to European competitions while operating on a limited budget and with a squad that often ranks low in terms of wage expenditure.

What are the key principles of Bordalas' coaching methods?

Bordalas' coaching methods focus on high pressing, organised defence, physical fitness, and adapting tactics to the players available, which has allowed him to consistently overachieve with modest squads.

How does Bordalas engage with the community?

Bordalas is known for his strong connection with Getafe's community, often seen engaging with fans and providing financial assistance to those in need, which has endeared him to supporters.

What challenges does Bordalas face at Getafe?

Despite his success, Bordalas faces challenges related to financial limitations, including maintaining a competitive squad amid constant player turnover and empty slots in the roster.