Swans set to enthrall Europe

Aug 03, 2013 - Sumil V.S. |

Age Correspondent

Former Barcelona player Michael Laudrup is embarking on a historic mission in Wales. Under his able guidance, Swansea City are taking their brand of aesthetic football and sound business to Europe. Thanks to the Swans’ League Cup triumph last season, the Welsh side have made it to the qualifying rounds of the Europa League. For neutrals, Europe’s second tier club competition would hardly be interesting, but for the Swans, 2013-14 season is historic — it is the first time that the club, which was founded more than 100 years ago, would be playing in the competition.
In a league dominated by clubs financed from far-away lands, the Swans bring in a touch of old-world romanticism with attractiveness of modern-day possession football. Under former manager Brendan Rodgers, Swansea played the most eye-pleasing game in the English Premier League in 2011-12 season. Gladly, the on-field orchestra was not disrupted after Rodgers’ departure to Liverpool. In fact, the new manager Laudrup only added more glamour to the team, a contribution which was in a way recognised when the Dane was considered one of the contenders to take over the mantle from Tito Vilanova at Barcelona.
On business side, Swansea are an example to be followed. While almost all clubs in England find their feet deep in debts, the Swans record a profit of above £10 million. Perhaps more strikingly, the club is part-owned by the fans.
For those who despise the ‘filthy money’ in modern football, Swansea is your Penelope Cruz in a league of Kim Kardashians. The Welsh side blends an old-world charm and modern day beauty to perfection. And this season, a Dane will guide the beauty from Wales to Europe.

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