Is the Current Premier League Superior to Two Decades Ago?

A Contemporary Evaluation of Premier League Quality

The debate about the current quality of the Premier League compared to the leagues of 10 or 20 years ago is one that persists among fans and media alike. The discussions typically center around the caliber of the football played and the excitement it generates. From my perspective as a former manager, I’d like to share my insights.

What Has Really Changed?

Before delving deeper, I want to clarify that my perspective comes from my experience as a manager in the sport we cherish. I’m eager to hear your thoughts on this matter.

How do you feel your favorite team’s performance has changed? Are you witnessing a more sophisticated, possession-oriented style now compared to the past, or is there a notable lack of zeal and commitment compared to earlier years? My observations extend beyond just on-field performance; there is also much to consider regarding developments off the pitch.

When you step into modern stadiums as a supporter, manager, or player, the advancements are hard to overlook. Our sporting arenas and facilities are among the best globally. The same applies to our training grounds, which boast cutting-edge fitness and medical resources, with playing surfaces that are superb.

However, have all these changes necessarily led to improvements? Perspectives will vary, but from a managerial standpoint, these elements are crucial.

Ownership Dynamics: A Different Reality

The Owners – A Connection That Some Only Dream About

During my career, I worked with ten clubs, and eight of those were under local ownership. There was a sense of unity with the supporters, and these owners understood the clubs’ significance to their local communities.

My relationship with several of these chairpersons was robust, and I continue to hold them in high regard. Understanding the identity of the clubs and the towns they represent enriched my connection with the fanbase. Collaborating with my chairmen was essential, especially during challenging times, which were not uncommon.

This connection allowed for candid discussions about the club’s future, often over a meal, where we could explore their visions alongside mine. In my opinion, this relationship is fundamental in any football club. Unfortunately, for many current managers, it remains a distant dream.

Most Premier League clubs, and many in the Championship, are now owned by foreign investors who view football primarily as a business. Hence, profitability takes precedence over merely securing points. For these investors, personal engagement on football matters is rare.

As a result, various titles have emerged, like sporting directors and football directors, that often hinder direct communication between managers and club owners.

If I were still managing today, I would undoubtedly prefer the setup of clubs like Brighton, Brentford, Stoke, Middlesbrough, and Bristol City—where ownership is local and grounded in understanding the community.

Academy Development: Are They Just Revenue Streams?

Academies – ‘Have They Become Profit Centers?’

There’s a sense of pride among fans when they chant “he’s one of our own,” celebrating the journey of home-grown talent progressing to the first team. The academy system in the UK holds a powerful allure for young athletes. Often starting at the age of six, these youngsters can end up dedicating more time to their academies than to traditional schooling.

These players often forge strong bonds with the clubs and coaching staff. Having seen the likes of three West Ham players triumph in the 1966 World Cup, the significance of nurturing local talent is evident.

Regrettably, contemporary academy players seem increasingly viewed through a commercial lens. Clubs have recognized the monetary benefits of selling academy prospects and are now sacrificing emerging talents to adhere to financial regulations.

Simultaneously, clubs are investing considerable sums to attract young foreign players, raising the question: Is this a sporting choice or merely a financial safeguard for the future?

Tactical Approaches: Trends in Playing Styles

Playing Styles – The Influence of Trends

It has been nearly a decade since Pep Guardiola took the helm at Manchester City, introducing a style that many coaches across various levels have adopted. This philosophy of play has not only been embraced but has almost become the standard.

While City had the most technically gifted squad in the Premier League, it seems many other managers prioritized style over the individual strengths of their teams, advocating possession-based play regardless of the players available.

Personally, I have always tailored my tactics to my squad’s capabilities, but the evolution brought forth by Guardiola and City cannot be overlooked. Possession-oriented play, complemented by purposeful passes that culminate in goals, is a sight to behold—yet mindless backward passing from defenders lacks the same appeal.

Years ago, we were coached to make our first touch forward and to utilize our most technically gifted players effectively. Football should never be prescriptive based solely on prevailing trends.

Still, trends continue to shift. Set pieces are now popular, with nearly all teams implementing long throws and in-swinging corners, reflecting a change in strategy in response to pressing opposition.

Perhaps the climate within the league is beginning to shift back towards a focus on results over stylistic play. As a manager, my ultimate goal has always been to secure wins, leading me to ponder: is the balance in the Premier League leaning more towards pragmatism today?

Tony Pulis offered these reflections in a conversation with BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan.