In an exclusive interview for Flashscore, legendary Italian coach Fabio Capello shared his thoughts on managing England, the importance of discipline in football, and how the game has evolved over the years. With a storied career spanning some of Europe’s top clubs, Capello remains one of the most respected voices in the sport.
Managing England – A Dream Fulfilled but Not Without Challenges
Capello described his time as England manager as a dream come true, but not without difficulties. He took over the national team in 2007, with the goal of instilling a winning mentality and tactical discipline. Under his leadership, England comfortably qualified for the 2010 World Cup, but their campaign ended in disappointment after a 4-1 defeat to Germany in the Round of 16.
One of the key challenges Capello faced was adapting to England’s football culture, which differed significantly from the environments he had experienced at clubs like AC Milan, Real Madrid, and Juventus. He emphasized how English players were naturally talented but often lacked the tactical rigor and discipline seen in Italian or Spanish football.
Despite his frustrations, Capello maintains great respect for English football and believes that the Premier League remains one of the most competitive and entertaining leagues in the world.
The Importance of Discipline in Football
Throughout his coaching career, Capello became known for his strict managerial approach. He firmly believes that discipline is the key to success, whether at the club level or with national teams.
One of the most striking moments in his career was his decision to drop key players for disciplinary reasons, even if it meant weakening the squad. He insisted that a coach must never lose control of the dressing room, as internal conflicts and lack of discipline can derail even the most talented teams.
Capello pointed to legendary players he coached, including Ronaldo Nazário, Paolo Maldini, and Alessandro Del Piero, as examples of professionals who understood the balance between talent and discipline. He also praised modern players like Cristiano Ronaldo for maintaining exceptional fitness and mental focus throughout their careers.
For the latest updates on football and player insights, visit the football news section.
How Football Has Evolved
Capello shared his views on the evolution of football, particularly how the pace and physicality of the game have changed over the past two decades. He noted that today’s football is faster, with a greater emphasis on pressing and fitness levels.
However, he also expressed concern about the increasing number of matches, leading to player fatigue and injuries. With domestic leagues, European competitions, and international tournaments, modern footballers are constantly playing at high intensity, leaving little time for rest and recovery.
Capello also commented on the impact of technology and data analysis in shaping tactical strategies. He acknowledged that modern football has become more statistically driven, but he warned that over-reliance on data can sometimes overshadow a coach’s instinct and experience.
For real-time updates on football scores, check out the football livescore section.
Capello’s Advice for Young Coaches
When asked about advice for young football managers, Capello stressed the importance of adaptability. He believes that coaches must evolve with the game, understand different playing styles, and know how to manage players with big personalities.
He also emphasized the importance of clear communication, especially for managers working in multicultural teams. Learning different languages and understanding players’ mentalities can help build a strong, united squad.
For more exclusive football insights and interviews, visit the sports news section.
Final Thoughts
Fabio Capello remains one of the most influential figures in football history, with a career that has shaped multiple generations of players and coaches. While his time with England may not have ended as he had hoped, his impact on the sport remains undeniable.
From his strict discipline to his tactical brilliance, Capello’s legacy continues to influence football at all levels. Whether discussing Premier League dominance, the importance of leadership, or the modern challenges faced by footballers, Capello’s words serve as a reminder of what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
