The brand has to be pushed in china, that is clearly part of the (generic?) company mentality. i agree, it's too much to focus on the Asian market and expect to be fit for the domestic games, but perhaps it is the price to pay for sponsorship deals etc.
Double edged sword.
But, still, while Pep complains about too-heavy a work schedule in the domestic and European leagues he's being pushed into taking the team-brand around the world. I'm sure this narks him as much as it does us, but in today's high-end sponsorship focused game and company fc mindset it has become par of the course.
At our level of game, with the expectations to win every comp, fatigue needs to be a concern that is factored into our schedule.
It showed at Wembley - but the teams total focus, as well as the focus of individual players is what got us through.
i questioned Bravo's starting ahead of Edison, but after he saved two against Wolves at the Etihad (2 seasons ago?) i wouldn't have put anyone else in goal for a penalty shoot-out ;)
i also questioned Foden starting ahead of Sergio, but omg the lad showed his metal. He went at them as soon as he came on, and to step up against Allison, for what was at stake, showed bravery and determination. He's come a long way - and as Pep says, we haven't seen the best yet.
