Manchester United and Barcelona, end of an era?
Nothing lasts for ever. Teams and clubs have their moments in the sunshine where they are incredibly dominant. They might not win everything, but they come pretty close and they do so for a good period of time. In some instances that dominance may last for 3 or 4 years, as in the recent case of Barcelona, or they may go on for long periods, like Manchester United’s current 20 year reign.

Management greats Pep Guardiola and Sir Alex Ferguson share a handshake

The current Barcelona run began under Pep Guardiola in 2006. During Pep’s spell as manager, Barcelona went through a period where they were practically unbeatable, picking up an unprecedented 14 titles in 4 years.

In the case of Manchester United, their dominance has extended for almost 20 years under the guide of Sir Alex Ferguson. In that time span Sir Alex has rebuilt the team on almost 4 separate occasions.

But as they say, nothing lasts for ever. Dynasties fall apart for a various reasons; sometimes complacency sets in, where players and sometimes even management lack the drive and commitment needed to maintain the push for success. At other times age becomes a huge factor. Where the current crop of players simply got old and were not replaced in time. And in some cases a change in leadership, where the old manager goes out and the new manager can’t quite maintain the standard of success. At the moment both United and Barcelona, two of the games dynasty’s, face these situations.

At Manchester United, the resignation of Sir Alex Ferguson after 26 years at the helm, has left a huge void at the club. At the time of Sir Alex’s hiring United were in a period where they had not won the title in almost 20 years. In his reign he single handily resurrected the club and went on to win 13 League titles as well as two Champions league. In his spell our he club, transformed the club into a world power and one of the most recognizable brands on the planet. To call United a dynasty may even be an understatement.

The task of filling Sir Alex shoes has fallen to former Everton manager David Moyes. Moyes faces an almost impossible task of replacing a legend. United have not fallen below in the top 3 in 15 years, having won the title 3 times in the last 5. Anything less than a top two finish will be deemed a failure.

The cracks are already showing on United’s pre-season preparation tour of Asia. Where they have struggled to win game and perform up to expected levels, as well as complaints about Moyes antiquated coaching.

Barcelona face a similar task. Guardiola had already been gone a year, but the standard and style has certainly waned in his absent. Barcelona’s decline was their for all to see as they were destroyed by Barcelona in the Champions league.

Both clubs sit on the edge, close to seeing their dynasty’s fall. Only time will tell.

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