Quite a lot...
en.wikipedia.org
I asked Copilot if LIEw was a **** & this is what it said….
Title: **In Defense of Celebrating Excellence: A Direct Reply to Jonathan Liew**
Dear Mr. Liew,
I recently read your piece on the spectacle surrounding Manchester City and their celebrations of success, including the statue of Rodri and their Ballon d'Or accolades. While your insights into the "theatre state" are engaging, I find it necessary to offer a more balanced perspective.
Football, much like any other sport, thrives on the passion, dedication, and remarkable achievements of its players. The statues, parades, and celebrations you criticize are not acts of self-aggrandizement by those in power. Instead, they serve as symbols of recognition for the hard work, talent, and contributions of individuals who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Celebrating achievements is a time-honored tradition in football, with clubs like Manchester City, Manchester United, and Liverpool demonstrating the deep connection between their successes and their supporters.
Historically, clubs, towns, villages, and birthplaces across England have honored their legends with statues. From **Thierry Henry at Arsenal** to **Dixie Dean at Everton**, these monuments celebrate the players' contributions and preserve their legacy for future generations.
Your assertion that these celebrations are out of place ignores the significance they hold for fans and the community. For many, football is more than just a game; it is a source of pride, identity, and unity. The parades, statues, and awards ceremonies are ways for clubs to show appreciation for their players' efforts and for fans to share in the joy of their team's success. Honoring players like Rodri with a Ballon d'Or recognition or a statue is a testament to their hard work and a source of inspiration for aspiring footballers.
Moreover, it's concerning to see your take on these celebrations, given your role in shaping public opinion. Your article reflects a tendency to overlook facts in favor of sensationalism, resembling the role of a court jester more than that of a serious journalist. What kind of profession allows someone to be consistently wrong without facing any repercussions? I’m grateful that journalists have a safe space to stay busy, rather than choosing careers that demand precision and accountability like pilots, surgeons or 99% of occupations your readers comply with.
In conclusion, while it is important to scrutinize and question the actions of those in power, we must also recognize and celebrate genuine achievements. The theater of football is not just about spectacle; it is about celebrating excellence and inspiring future generations. Let us not diminish the significance of these moments by reducing them to mere acts of pomp and circumstance.
