Arsenal are considering dispensing of U18 coach Pat Holland just seven games into his tenure after a poor run of results amid concerns that he was failing to get the best out of the club’s youngsters.
Holland, who previously managed Leyton Orient and has held coaching positions at various clubs during his lengthy career, was appointed by Arsenal on the eve of the campaign to replace Steve Bould, who was promoted to the position of Arsene Wenger’s assistant manager for the first-team.
However, under Holland, a young side consisting primarily of first-year scholars suffered a hefty 5-1 defeat to Bolton Wanderers on the opening day of the season, before being held to a 1- 1 draw by Blackburn Rovers in their next fixture. A better run of results followed, as Arsenal won their next three matches, but they were then held to a goalless draw at home to West Bromwich Albion before enduring another heavy defeat, this time a 3-0 reverse to Reading in their last game.
It is understood that the hierarchy overseeing the youth development at the club, including Liam Brady, are concerned with Holland’s progress since assuming the role and are considering replacing him with U16 coach Steve Gatting, although such a decision has yet to be rubber-stamped.
Surely they took months deciding who should take over? How can they be dissatisfied already?
Did’nt understand why Gatting never got it in the first place!
Very un-arsenal like!
Hopefully he doesn’t get to hear about it on here. One might wonder how much he is to blame for the results.
That’s very surprising. I would doubt that it would be mainly to do with poor results, the managers at youth level always repeat the mantra that it’s about development and not results. I’d imagine that it has probably more to do with his coaching and tactics not being in line with the Arsenal way of youth development. Assuming it’s all true.
Holland could be one of the old school, Arsenal academy need something else, better act sooner rather than later if that’s the case. We need best quality modern coaching in our academy if we like to get the results we’re after. If there’s something incompatible in our academy, it should be worked out promptly.
Wow you was right he’s gone! Top marks Jeorge
jeorge spot on again
Leonard & Laramen replace Gatting in U16s role. Players are happy with choice
im surprised by this coz the u18s was on a good run since the reading game. but i guess i understand seeing as the youth set up is a big part of the club and they want to make sure everything is right