If you’ve scrolled through Twitter lately, filtering out hilarious cat videos and the endless political commentary, you’d have noticed one meme that’s caught the football world’s attention.
The latest sensation from the Twitter-verse? Assistant manager Carlos Cuesta is being touted as Arsenal‘s embodiment of Wendy Rhoades.
For the uninitiated, Wendy Rhoades is the genius performance coach from TV show “Billions” who knows how to navigate the intricate labyrinth of Wall Street, managing and taming massive egos—akin to persuading a cat into a bath; a daunting task, but achievable with the right touch.
Similarly, under Mikel Arteta‘s guidance, Carlos has been the key architect behind Arsenal’s title aspirations.
Carlos adeptly dodges the Premier League’s many challenges, much like Wendy sidesteps the volatile world of finance. He’s tirelessly pushed the team to excel, ensuring they’re not just tactically sharp but also physically and mentally at their peak.
And let’s be honest, managing footballer egos?
It’s more challenging than finding a good British comedy that Americans understand.
But who exactly is this maestro silently pulling the strings at Emirates Stadium?
He's Wendy Rhoades pic.twitter.com/4OZ7o6xKVZ
— Dougy Fresh (@czardaswun) October 17, 2023
Delving into Carlos’s past, we find a journey that is nothing short of inspiring.
Starting in Spain, his early ventures saw him nurturing young talents in local youth teams. However, his tactical intellect took little time to make waves in the footballing world. By the age of 27, Carlos had already honed his skills at illustrious clubs such as Atletico Madrid and Juventus.
It’s not merely the renowned clubs on his CV that are compelling, but his innovative coaching philosophy.
Rejecting the age-old, one-size-fits-all mantra, Carlos advocates for tailored strategies.
He firmly believes in understanding each player inside-out, and it’s not just about their on-field skills.
Being fluent in six languages, he connects deeply, often engaging with players in their mother tongue, understanding their psyche, and moulding game plans that amplify their strengths.
A recent video offered a glimpse into the method to his perceived unconventional tactics.
Carlos is seen talking to Ben White, one of Arsenal’s standout signings from Brighton.
“Your ability to learn is your biggest strength. How many players can anticipate like you? Not many. I’d say nobody. You’re special.”
Social media erupted with fans playfully commenting on Carlos’s infectious enthusiasm as the over-excited football manager nerd.
There are whispers about Jack Wilshere, former Arsenal player and current youth team coach, considering a shift to MLS’s Colorado Rapids, a club sharing ownership ties with Arsenal. If this move materialises, there’s growing consensus on Twitter that Carlos should helm Arsenal’s U18s.
Recognized by insiders as a budding Arteta, Carlos is a mastermind of football strategies and is keen to showcase his own managerial prowess.
The plot thickens. Flashback 2018.
A study trip to Manchester City led to a serendipitous encounter with Arteta, then part of Pep Guardiola’s ensemble. A shared vision and mutual respect were born, culminating in their collaboration at Arsenal, driving the club to new pinnacles.
Insiders even hint that Arteta played a pivotal role in retaining Carlos this summer, likely with a discreet promotion.
The duo embodies the heart and soul of a resurgent Arsenal.
And the current form? Securely placed second after eight games and undefeated?
Feels like Christmas came early, minus the horrendous hoodies.
So, the next time you’re captivated by Arsenal’s finesse on the pitch, the ingenious plays, or their indomitable spirit even as the clock winds down, spare a thought for the real-life Wendy Rhoades of football.
While players bask in the limelight and Arteta receives accolades, remember the strategists in the shadows, like Carlos, who truly orchestrate a team’s title charge.
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