Career We Go x PUNDIT: Ruud Gullit
Career We Go and PUNDIT are teaming up to give you the greatest football trivia quiz out there. The player for September 6th is the one-time most expensive footballer in the world and Ballon d'Or winner of 1987, Ruud Gullit. Read about him right here.
This man needs no introduction. A true legend of the game, named one of the Top 125 greatest living footballers as part of FIFA's 100th anniversary celebration, part of the 'Tre Tulipani' at AC Milan, European champion, three time Serie A champion, two time Dutch footballer of the year, and one time Ballon d'Or winner.
He even had the role of Player-Manager while at Chelsea, but his managerial career has been a bust since then. His stint with LA Galaxy in particular is the stuff of legends. Sacked by Ken Bates at Chelsea for his arrogance, the same story resounded his time with the Galaxy.
Gullit's time with Galaxy was troublesome. Not well-versed in the intricacies and specifics of the MLS such as salary cap and draft rules, the Dutchman did not adapt well to the North American league.
Gullit clashed with midfielder Peter Vagenas, who criticized him for neglecting set-play practice during training.
As the season progressed, Gullit clashed with several players, including Landon Donovan and Abel Xavier; the latter criticised Gullit's managerial style and said he did not have respect for most of the players. On 11 August 2008, Gullit resigned as coach of the Galaxy, citing personal reasons. This came following a seven-game winless streak.