I'll take an exception to all that negativity after the announcement... I'm strangely at peace...
Not getting Alonso may be disappointing, I agree. But this is an ideal opportunity for our new structure to shine. I think it's great that we have laptop Eddie back, and certainly the numbers will play a big role in selecting a new manager. Ideal situation to take a pun on someone unknown but with potential - Ruben Amorim, Thiago Motta, whomever the stats identify. The new manager will have the best platform he can hope for, and the make-or-break opportunity for him will guarantee the maximum possible development of his potential. With the quality in the squad, I think CL spot will be easily achievable barring major injuries. What's to lose? We may not be a title challengers next season, but would that have been different with Alonso? It's a big unknown - new league, new tactics.