There's a lot at stake for Gerard Houllier during his tenure with Aston Villa.
There's a lot at stake for Gerard Houllier during his tenure with Aston Villa.
Things aren't exactly rosy at Villa Park. With Martin O'Neill's sudden exit as manager at the very beginning of the season, Randy Lerner might be questioning his decision of bringing in Gerard Houllier, especially as the team finds itself languishing in the relegation zone of the Premier League after losing at home to Sunderland on Wednesday.
Gerard Houllier finds himself under a microscope, struggling to win over Aston Villa fans, as his popularity dwindles. He's not making friends in the dressing room either, with Robert Pires being the latest to join the list of disgruntled players.
Robert Pires has voiced his dissatisfaction over getting limited game time, starting just once since his arrival at Aston Villa, and he is critical of the overall negative vibe he's experiencing at the club.
\"With a few players, the atmosphere feels charged and edgy. Not the entire group, but definitely some of them,\" Pires shared with the French radio station, RMC.
\"Houllier has introduced a fresh culture, a different approach altogether. When you're stuck in a routine and everything changes overnight, it can be tough to swallow.
\"Moreover, we're not pulling off any wins. That adds to the challenge for everyone, and I've landed right amidst this turmoil.\"