On June 23, Danish coach Frank, who has managed Tottenham, Brentford, and other clubs, published a column commenting on the performances of Messi and Olise at the FIFA World Cup, as well as discussing players such as Vitinha, Pedri, and Jean-Diomande.
About the World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico
I have loved the FIFA World Cup since I first watched Denmark play in the 1986 Mexico FIFA World Cup as a child. Back then, my dad would record the games overnight so I could watch them with my sister the next morning before school—just like children still do today, forty years later!
I can enjoy the FIFA World Cup as a fan, but when I commentate on matches, I naturally think like a head coach. While I still appreciate the passion displayed by fans of teams like Scotland, Norway, and the Netherlands and the atmosphere they create, I prefer to analyze the game from a tactical perspective—focusing on trends and the strategies adopted by different coaches.
I also enjoy personally observing emerging players. Although data is available on almost every player, there are still unexpected discoveries. You might spot an interesting player you've never heard of, or see how he plays alongside familiar players, giving you a proper chance to assess him. For example, at this World Cup, I've done this with two Ivorian players.
Jean-Diomande from RB Leipzig is frequently discussed. I observed him when I managed Brentford, when he played for Spanish club Leganés. He was always on our radar, so I knew of him for some time, though my knowledge came mainly from video clips and highlights. That's typically how information reaches you when scouting players, unless it's a particularly important situation where you watch a full match.
I watched Diomande's game against Germany and saw everything about him. Hopefully, I'll watch him play two, three, or more times in the coming weeks. While I could look up video clips or research his data, having observed him live, it's now stored in my mental hard drive. As a coach, that's exactly how you want to remember players and their abilities.
The other Ivorian player I encountered and admired is Ourae. Although I didn't know him before this World Cup, major clubs are familiar with every player, so he shouldn't be unknown to them. Now I've seen Trabzonspor midfielder Ourae in person. Although his Ivorian team lost to Germany, I thought he delivered an outstanding performance. I like his turning ability, his forward-driving style, and his technical versatility. Technically, he's very strong.
There's simply no substitute for seeing a player perform live. The same applies to German players. Of course, I know who they are, but because I work in the Premier League, I follow it closely—that's how I stay updated on teams and players, plus the Champions League. I have some knowledge of the Bundesliga, but I might only watch a major match, like Bayern Munich against Dortmund, as that's what typically gets coverage.
Last year, I watched only one Bayer Leverkusen match because my friend Juhlmann was their head coach at the time. I'd love to watch more matches and see more players, but it's simply impossible. Even though I think about football all day, you only have limited hours each day.
So, who would I sign?
As a fan, Messi remains my favorite player at this World Cup. He is the GOAT—the greatest player of all time—and we should all take this opportunity to watch him play.
Argentina's match against Austria was on Monday, and I watched it with my son, who is a huge Messi fan. At 22, he's followed Messi, the world's best player, his entire life. We've been fortunate to see him many times in person, but watching him on TV together this time is especially special because this may be his final World Cup.
However, as a football manager, if asked who I'd prioritize signing from the 1,428 players at this World Cup, I must remember that Messi is already 38 years old, despite his genius.
If I were in charge, the answer would depend on my team's needs and the players I already have, but I'd probably choose the midfielder I consider most unique in that position.
I've always admired Spain and Barcelona's Pedri, but currently, for that same position, I'd probably sign Portugal and Paris Saint-Germain's Vitinha, who has been exceptional this season. I should say it's a challenge, because we've had to work hard to stop him. I've faced him in the Champions League and the Super Cup, and seeing him up close is truly remarkable.
Vitinha has been outstanding, especially in Tottenham's second match against Paris Saint-Germain in Paris, where he scored twice from outside the box. It was fantastic, and he's probably at his peak right now.
Who will be this World Cup's best player?
Another player I want to mention is Bayern Munich and France's Olise. Signing Vitinha or Pedri would be a dream, but with Olise, I almost made it happen. We nearly brought him from Reading to Brentford, but he ended up transferring to Crystal Palace instead. I spoke with him about Brentford, and he wanted to join, but for some reason, the deal fell through. Since then, I've closely followed his development.
Of course, France has other superstars, but what I've always appreciated about Olise is his team dedication. Every player has pride, but he always remains humble. In France's first match against Senegal, I know Mbappé scored twice, but in my opinion, Olise was man of the match with an outstanding display.
Olise works hard on the pitch, and I value that spirit in a player. He's constantly involved in attacks and creates miracles with his left foot. He can shoot, dribble, and his passing accuracy is excellent. For Mbappé's first goal, Olise's through ball had to be perfect, with just the right pace.
To stop France, you must neutralize four or five players, but every strong team has one player with greater influence than others, and I believe Olise fills that role for France. Perhaps when this World Cup ends, he'll be named the tournament's best player. Surprises will happen in the coming weeks, but this wouldn't surprise me.
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