Last season were some of the revelations: Europa League semifinals, game idea and a lot of pieces as young as interesting.
This season has started the same, with good feelings. Although with a certain special touch.
Two games, and two victories against Leipzig. That team that, by their owners, takes away many of their valuable pieces when they are ready for the jump to a major league. They weaken them each season.
The subsidiary won the first team, some will say. Nothing more successful.
While Leipzig does not go through its best, the Salzburg does. Many youths in the squad always generate irreverence to the opponent, but if this is balanced with experienced players (Junuzovic’s case) the result can be great.
Most important of all? The project. Without it, they would be nothing. In fact, neither Leipzig would be.
Capture of young talents
The Salzburg scouting system (and most Red Bull teams) is to be admired. They find enormous talents and for very low prices, always with a margin of exit very superior to only months.
The formula? Scouts throughout the world, especially in non-commercial leagues. They have signed players without professional activity, even.
Sow and reap. Law of life.
Trust and development
Trust in young people is a fundamental aspect.
Not just signing jewelry is enough, you have to develop them. The philosophy of Red Bull clubs understands that, with minutes and confidence, the player is even more valuable. So be seen as just a product.
Leipzig, for example, reached the final stages of the Europa League playing with two 19-year-old power stations. The spare was 20.
In Austria, it has its quarry, so here they play with even less age.
The blackboard of Marco Rose
There is a vital man in the entire Red Bull Salzburg project: Marco Rose.
A different technician, risky, offensive and with a very clear idea of play. Clear enough to dominate the elite rival of the company … twice.
Good football, the one that plays well; the one that entertains and is effective.
Future coach of Hoffenheim? We do not know.
The face of the Salzburg? Undoubtedly.