Chris Smalling looks back on his career: from Maidstone to world top

Chris Smalling blikt terug op carrière: van Maidstone tot wereldtop

Volgens Bbc.

Achtergrond

Chris Smalling, a former Manchester United defender, has had a diverse career that includes stints at Fulham, Roma, and most recently, Al-Fayha in the Saudi Pro-League. His relationship with managers like José Mourinho has been pivotal in his development as a player, showcasing the importance of trust and mentorship in football. As he seeks a new club, Smalling's experience in top-tier leagues, including the Premier League, positions him as a valuable asset for any team.

Waarom dit ertoe doet

Chris Smalling's journey from Maidstone United to the heights of Premier League football with Manchester United and beyond illustrates the transformative power of mentorship in sports. His experiences with legendary managers like Sir Alex Ferguson and José Mourinho have shaped not only his playing style but also his mental resilience, which is crucial for any athlete. As he seeks a new club, his insights into leadership and trust in football remain relevant for both players and coaches in the Premier League and beyond.

Belangrijkste punten

• Chris Smalling blikt terug op carrière: van Maidstone tot wereldtop.
• Voormalig Manchester United-verdediger Chris Smalling vertelt over zijn opmerkelijke voetbalreis.
• Chris Smalling on Sir Alex Ferguson, Jose Mourinho and search for new club - BBC Sport.

Chris Smalling is bepaald geen doorsnee profvoetballer. De centrale verdediger, die zijn carrière begon bij het bescheiden Maidstone United, groeide binnen een paar jaar uit tot vaste kracht bij Manchester United, speelde onder de grootsten der aarden, en is recent actief geweest in de Saudische competitie. Nu, op 36-jarige leeftijd, is Smalling op zoek naar een nieuwe club, waarbij hij terugkijkt op bijzondere momenten uit zijn rijke profloopbaan. Een opvallend element in Smallings verhaal is zijn band met José Mourinho. Ondanks een publiekelijk kritisch moment in hun Manchester United-tijd — toen Mourinho Smalling bekritiseerde over het doorvoetballen met een blessure — is het onderlinge respect altijd gebleven. “Mourinho koos me bij United en later bij Roma omdat hij op me vertrouwde,” vertelt Smalling. “Toptrainers als Mourinho en Ferguson geven je het gevoel dat je alles aankan, zelfs als je misschien niet meer kunt. Die mentale kracht hield me op de been.” Het contact tussen Mourinho en Smalling bestaat anno nu uit meer dan voetbal alleen: “Hij stuurt me nu grappige berichten, de band blijft gewoon goed.” Samen wonnen ze bij Roma de Conference League, een hoogtepunt in Smallings loopbaan. Maar de basis werd gelegd onder Sir Alex Ferguson. Toen die hem als jongeling naar Manchester haalde – terwijl Smalling eigenlijk een studie Financial Economics wilde gaan volgen – werd de basis gelegd voor een imposante carrière. “Ferguson was heel direct en geruststellend. Ik vroeg me soms af of ik wel minuten zou maken met al die concurrentie, maar hij gaf me altijd vertrouwen.” Smalling is zich bewust van zijn fysieke gesteldheid en het belang van de juiste voorbereiding. Hijsays that he stays fit longer, partly due to genetic tests and appropriate supplements. During his year with Al-Fayha in the Saudi Pro-League, he played almost everything and proved that he can still compete at a high level. He is not keen on a coaching career, but his interest is slowly shifting towards the education of young football players. He is working on a training program in collaboration with the Global Institute of Sport. Yet for the time being it is all about football, because Smalling is eager to take on a new challenge. With more than 580 games to his name, prizes at United and Roma and an atypical route to the top, the search for a new adventure continues to attract the attention of international clubs.

What's happening now

Smalling is currently exploring options for his next move, with speculation about potential interest from various clubs, including those in the Premier League and the Saudi Pro-League. His extensive experience and proven track record make him an appealing prospect for teams looking to bolster their defensive line. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where the seasoned defender lands next in his illustrious career.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important thing that Chris Smalling looks back on his career?

Chris Smalling reflects on his career from Maidstone United to Manchester United and his recent spell in the Saudi league.

Who confirmed the link between Chris Smalling and José Mourinho?

Chris Smalling himself confirms the good relationship with José Mourinho, who trusted him at both Manchester United and Roma.

Why is Chris Smalling now looking for a new club?

Chris Smalling is looking for a new club because he is now 36 years old and wants to continue his career.

What changes have taken place in Smalling's career?

Smalling has gone from humble beginnings at Maidstone United to becoming a regular at Manchester United and has recently played in the Saudi league.

What are the highlights of Chris Smalling's career?

A highlight of Smalling's career is winning the Conference League with Roma, as well as his development under Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

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