‘Pep Guardiola has created this problem’ – Coach Opeele reacts to goalkeepers playing from the back

Former Asante Kotoko coach, Isaac Boateng popularly known as Coach Opeele, has pointed fingers at Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, for popularizing the trend of goalkeepers initiating attacks by passing to their players instead of hoofing the ball.

Guardiola’s philosophy of goalkeepers playing out from the back has influenced many managers and teams to adopt a similar style. However, this strategy often leads to costly mistakes when teams lose possession in dangerous areas, resulting in goals conceded.

A recent example is Fulham's game against West Ham on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. Fulham were caught out while attempting to play from the back, allowing Carlos Soler to capitalize on the error and score, putting the Hammers 1-0 up.

The incident sparked an online debate, with many football fans calling for managers to revert to the traditional approach of goalkeepers playing long balls.

Coach Opeele weighed in on the discussion, responding to a tweet that advocated for a return to the old ways. He took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his thoughts, blaming Guardiola for the current trend.

“I wonder why they all do that. Pep Guardiola has created this problem. One day, a coach will go back to route one, and systems of play will change again,” he tweeted.

I wonder why they all do that. Pep Guardiola has created this problem

Oneday, a coach will go back to the route one and systems of play will change again https://t.co/Kfy413XCuv

— Isaac 'Opeele' Boateng (@CoachOpeele) January 14, 2025