On tactics/formations:
- 433 is what he generally likes to play
- Formation not as important as overall style of team
- Wants to play attacking, attractive football ("I don't think you guys would be too happy if we're just winning 1-0")
- Happy to try playing either 4 or 3 at the back; with 1 or 2 holding midfielders
- Mentioned trying a system with a #9 with a support striker just behind. Also made numerous references to wingers, and wide players with pace, something he feels we lacked last season
- Sees the team's defensive problems not just as an issue with the back line or keeper, but with the team as a whole (midfield not protecting back four, strikers not doing their job - this answer actually got a round of applause, the only one to do so)
On acquisitions:
- Very excited by Jack Harrison, who has ability to take people on one-on-one and run at players with pace
- Mattarita a very talented, young player
- Not concerned about where new signings come from ("There is no passport in football"
- Says he has been impressed with the team's academy system
On players:
- DPs have an important role in helping other players reach their potential, they are aware of the importance of their role
- Poku has potential to be one of the best players in the league, has not yet reached peak of his abilities. Met with him this morning and told him he will be putting more pressure on him this season, he will have a "big role" to play
- Says he wants the team to play with a togetherness, work hard for each other and act as a family off the field (in response to a question on what he'd learned from his Arsenal days)
On the new job:
- Realized when he saw the fans' reaction to trading up at the draft that New York fans would not accept anything but the best
- Is a big fan of New York as a city. Came here on holiday every year with his family, loves the diversity and the buzz of the city. Heard him mention to one fan that his wife is also very happy here.
- Wants to bring some of his personality to the way the team plays. Says he will likely have to tone down his emotions somewhat as a manager
- Says the team's aim next season is to win trophies
My thoughts - a very charismatic and thoughtful guy, with clear ideas about his ambition for the club, but an open mind about how we get there. I get a sense that while he's got a decent idea of what style of football he wants to play, he's far from deciding on a first XI, default formation or the like. It wouldn't surprise me if the transfer deals we make before the season starts come in areas that we didn't expect - he even specifically warned against blaming the defense or GK for our defensive struggles. That said, he had nothing negative to say about the DPs, and obviously sees Poku as a starter, so there are a few things we can expect. Overall he seemed happy, and was generous with his time - he stopped to say hello to a Third Rail guy he recognized on the way up to the podium, and took time to speak to everyone in the bar (in English and French). And he gave me a picture, so that's nice.