I was listening to a radio discussion about the purchase of Manchester City by group of wealthy men from Abu Dhabi, and questioning if this was good for Manchester or English football or even world football.  Clearly it would mean that City suddenly could buy world-class players and follow Chelsea’s example and effectively buy their way to the top. 

It is fascinating to think how tribal football is in its origins.  Formed in 1880 and linked to a local church, it grew till it became the ‘property’ of a city, or part there of.  Now it is set to become a world brand like it’s famous big brother Manchester United, and maybe we will see little boys in the Congo and the Amazon wearing their strip in a few years time.

So what creates this sense of identification and the emotional bond?  Well obviously exposure to the team is key.  You can’t become attached if you don’t have any experience of them.  Seeing them as winners is another, as potential role models.

The interesting thing is that the locals who initially would hate the idea of their team belonging to a bunch of foreigners start to feel somewhat differently when those same foreigners provide the where withal for them to start challenging for the trophies they crave.  So rejection turns to acceptance when it brings you the things you want.  There is a lesson here for bosses who want to bring along their staff, you have to find out what they value and make sure the plans take this into account.