STRAIGHT TALK
STEVE McMAHON
Robinho's record transfer to Manchester City on transfer deadline day just stinks.
Deadline day has always brought about surprises but this was the one that did not sit well with me. Not one bit.
It's ridiculous enough for a player to hold his own press conference to announce his desire to join Chelsea. Then, he changed his mind at the drop of a hat when Manchester City came along.
There is one reason behind this. Money!
I would say Chelsea will be grateful for not getting Robinho. The player turned his back on Luiz Felipe Scolari and did not prove to be the model professional a successful team needs.
Furthermore, the Brazilian whined and cried when Real Madrid refused to entertain his transfer request. His emotional outbursts were disgraceful. To be honest, football is a game for strong men. They have to be strong physically as well as mentally - for crying out loud!
And all this happened because Manchester City was taken over by an Arab-based group richer than Roman Abramovich.
Nobody saw it coming. Was Thaksin Shinawatra pushed? Or did he jump? The situation looks a little political to me. Under normal circumstances, I don't think Thaksin would have sold out.
This takeover isn't my cup of tea either. It remains to be seen whether the whole investment will turn out to be a successful one.
For me, I don't think City are Top Four material - yet. Let alone league title material. You need a little more than that.
By contrast, Manchester United have the class, the talent and the players to win the title. They have bought one player on deadline day, Dimitar Berbatov, who is a fantastic talent.
The Bulgarian is a quality player who can hold up the ball and bring others into play. He also has that goal-scoring instinct. You could say he is in the mould of Ruud van Nistelrooy - Manchester United's last great target man.
They also say he is sulky and he will be a handful with that ego of his. But hand on heart, I know that when you play for the likes of Manchester United or Liverpool, your ego goes out the window.
You will be treated just like everyone else in the team. Buckle down and work. Or else you will get kicked out.
I am sure Berbatov has the necessary mental strength and ability to shine at United. After all, he already has Premier League experience.
As for Robinho and Manchester City, it might well all end in tears.
Former England and Liverpool midfielder Steve McMahon is ESPN's football analyst.
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