Taking Risks with PSV: Betting on Youth to Save the Season

Managing PSV has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. I came into this season with high hopes and big plans, but as things stand, we’re sitting in 17th place in Division 5. It’s been a tough start, and the pressure is mounting. But instead of panicking, I’ve decided to double down on a risky strategy: trusting in young players with lower ratings but high potential.

A Rough Start

Let’s be honest—this season hasn’t gone to plan. A few disappointing results and some underwhelming performances from senior players have left us battling near the bottom of the table. I could’ve gone the safe route by chasing quick fixes in the transfer market or sticking with experienced players, but that would only paper over the cracks.

My Youth Strategy

Instead of chasing short-term gains, I’ve shifted my focus to building for the future. I’ve scouted several young players who might not have the highest ratings right now but show immense promise based on their real-life performances. Players like Maxi Araujo, Pavel Sulc, and Matthias Seidl have become the foundation of this rebuild. Their current ratings might not blow anyone away, but I’m confident they’ll rise—and quickly.

The Risks Are Real

Of course, this strategy comes with its risks. Low ratings are inconsistent, and when you’re in 17th place, you need every point you can get. But I’ve made peace with the idea that this season is about more than just avoiding the sack. It’s about building a team that can dominate for seasons to come.

To balance things out, I’ve kept a few experienced players in key positions to provide stability. Their ratings help to buffer the younger players, but I’ve also started to give the kids more minutes. They need to learn through playing, even if it means a few growing pains along the way.

Small Wins, Big Hope

Despite our position in the table, I’m starting to see signs of progress. Some of the young players have already improved their ratings, and the team is beginning to gel. It’s a long road ahead, but I’m confident that by the end of the season, we’ll be in a much stronger place—whether that’s avoiding the sack or simply a squad with players ready to shine next season.

Looking Forward

So, here we are—17th in Division 5, but full of hope. It’s not where I wanted to be, but it’s where I am. Trusting in youth is a gamble, but one I believe will pay off. It might not save the season entirely, but it’ll set us up for a much brighter future. The question is, can these young players rise fast enough to turn things around before it’s too late? Only time will tell.