Vitor Bruno’s overly honest approach may cost him his job at Anderlecht | OneFootball

Vitor Bruno has come in at Anderlecht and is clearly trying to make some major changes. His approach has already been reported as being one that is trying to install a different culture in the club, from the first team down through the system. Yet, his overly honest approach and willingness to accept responsibility for some of the poor performances so far this season may well cost him his job. Following Anderlecht’s 2-1 defeat to Lyon in the Europa League, Bruno said after the game that his pre match message to the side was ‘perhaps not the right one‘.

Having a head coach who is honest but also willing to take the blame for defeats should earn him support amongst the squad, and its clear that Bruno is trying to protect his players with his approach. Furthermore, Bruno is dealing with a squad that took a while to come together, so is still trying to work out who is best team is and how they can deal with certain approaches to matches, depending on the opponent.

However, the Anderlecht head coach is looking set to tread a fine line between protecting his players and taking too much responsibility. If he continues to take the blame when the side lose, and the side continue to be inconsistent, how long until ownership and the fans begin to think that Bruno is the problem? Without getting results on the pitch, that level of honesty can only end one way if performances don’t pick up.

There have been signs of life however. Against KV Mechelen the side moved the ball well and really should have scored more goals. They won 1-0, but in a few months time, with Bruno having more time to work with the squad, perhaps that would have been a more resounding victory? Anderlecht face Zulte Waregem this weekend ahead of the international break. The extended break will give Bruno some time to really sit down and work out who he has and how to get the best out of them. So far, Anderlecht have won three of their six games, with one draw and two defeats. Domestically, they are on a three game unbeaten run. If they can carry that unbeaten record into the international break it will certainly help.

For far too long now, Anderlecht have been inconsistent and unable to return to competing for titles. The hope is that, Bruno’s approach and his preparedness to change things behind the scenes can help the club recover in the long run. So far, it has been an indifferent start for the new head coach, but if results improve, his willingness to be honest with fans and protect his players from criticism will be seen as admirable. If things go in the opposite direction, that approach could see him become the fall guy.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson