Two's Kompany wrote:Some have said he wanted Ter Stegen. I think the truth is he wanted anyone else but Joe Hart.
Some Spanish-based journalists said he would 'test' the hierarchy like he did Bayern's. They didn't give in to his demands (was when he demanded Kroos was given top dollar in a new deal).
Apparently, despite it being very early in to his reign, he knew THEN he would never have 'control'.
He did it with Ronaldinho and Deco (I think) at Barca.
Thing is he had Messi. Here we've replaced a top keeper with a poor one. I'm not saying Hart had to say, I just believe we should have bought a better keeper or kept Hart until one became available.
Oh he definitely wanted to get rid of Hart first and foremost. Absolutely no question about that. What was the reason though? I've seen different theories but I'm thinking it was something that took place between Hart and Pep OR Hart and upper management. This was personal.
I mean, you look at how top clubs change their goalkeepers, especially ones who have undisputed pedigree of success. It always happens so that eventual replacement comes in first and then season long discontent follows ie "I'm happy to be at the club and waiting for my chance" blah blahblah bollocks. I'm sure Pep wanted to stamp his authority but he is no fool either.
This is pure guesswork but Hart started the preseason and everything seemed to he fine and dandy. Then all of the sudden in almost panicky fashion things started to change. I think Hart might've challenged Pep in training ground or in the changing room. You can't have that with senior players as a new manager.
I don't believe in power struggle theory. Not yet at least. Remember, Begiristain has not only worked with Pep before but they also played together for a long time.
Having said all that I still think he should've bit the bullet. I mean there are less than ten goalkeepers in the world who are suitable quality for us. And none of them are freely available. Also he should've noticed how terrible the situation was with our centerbacks so it would've been elemental to have someone steady behind them. They simply can't control the inevitable counterattacks coming our way.