Source: Telegraph
Gianfranco Zola sticks to his guns at West Ham
West Ham take on Arsenal on Sunday, which will give Zola the chance to pit his wits against Arsène Wenger, the manager he admires most.
This is not based simply on the trophies Wenger has won, but the fact that he has stayed loyal to his philosophy of good passing football.
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Zola wants to do the same, but after finishing ninth last season, West Ham have struggled and will be bottom of the table if Portsmouth win at Hull on Saturday.
West Ham's start to the season – one win, two draws and five defeats – is identical to 2002-03, a season that ended with relegation.
"I'm not tempted to change our style," he said. "I would rather change jobs. It is the way I like to play, the way that is right for this club, and I will not change on principle.
"Arsène Wenger is a manager I look up to very much, because of the way he plays and the fact he works with young players. That fits in with the project we are trying to do here.
"Mostly I like his strength of character. He has been through some difficult moments but he never changes his philosophy, always playing attacking football."
Zola, universally admired as one of football's nice guys, described himself as "a warrior", not so much for his physical stature as his determination. "I never give up. My determination to succeed is stronger than anything.
"The situation is difficult because I care about his club and to see us in this position hurts me. When I was a player it was easier to get on with your job, but as manager you have more responsibility."
The temptation to put his boots back on and play is never far away. "There was a moment last year when I thought about it, but the time has gone," he laughed. "But I have a lot of faith in my players. There is a really good spirit and I think we can change things."
Nevertheless the stress of modern management is clear to see. "This situation is pushing me a lot and it is a test for me, but I am really working hard to sort it out." That includes sleepless nights. "Yes. This is a job when you have to look after so many things, and you are always looking for solutions so it is a job that keeps you very busy." So will he still be a manager at 60, like Wenger? "No.
