The aim of football is to win trophies. For fans, managers, owners. And now, with such emphasis being placed upon the idea of a ‘legacy’, players want to join winning organisations more than ever. Jack Grealish being a prime example. But we pose the question:
To what extent should trophies – essentially, team success – determine how good a player is?
Say, in a hypothetical scenario, Grealish wins a Premier League next season, playing a reasonable part in a Manchester City side which has won 3 of the last 4 EPL titles; does that make Jack Grealish a ‘better’ player than he already is? He’d have the same qualities, a lesser role and perhaps worse stats if he has to share the attacking burden. He could decline, yet in the eyes of the media, his legacy would heighten.
Of course, if a player carries his side to a trophy, contributing in the clutch moments, he rightfully deserves the plaudits. Maradona in 1986. Ronaldo in 2002. Zidane in 1998. Career-defining triumphs and, consequently, trophies which are weighted much more. But what about a different player, who has the exact same individual impact but sees their teammates falter when it matters?
In cup competitions, the factor of luck is undeniable. Harry Kane was a penalty kick away from a first career trophy and perhaps even a knighthood. If Angel Di Maria missed his chance in the Copa America final, Messi would still lack an international trophy. If Higuain scored his chances in 2014, perhaps Lionel Messi’s GOAT status would be solidified and unquestionable.
Single moments can define a career. Single moments, often out of the control of a single player, can mark the difference between a world-class player and a footballing legend. A 15-year body of work falling down to a split-second of action. A player’s football legacy, the thousands of hours of work and improvement, solely dependent on another teammate’s ability to step-up when it matters.
A footballer’s whole career is built upon winning. Every pass, touch, decision they make is ultimately made with the aim of winning a match, competition or trophy. Success is the backbone of all sports. A player’s worth in football fundamentally boils down to what they have won.
Is that justified?
