Lessons from Leicester’s historic triumph

First, it is a lesson in leadership. Leicester’s Italian coach Claudio Ranieri, unlike a lot of top coaches known for their flamboyance and massive ego, is unassuming but passionate to “serve the team” and bring out the best in them.
He focused on nurturing the talent he had at his disposal and taking calculated risks on players other clubs had passed on.
Finding someone to lead who doesn’t crave for glamour and the best for themselves but is truly dedicated to bringing out the best in others is not easy.
Second, it shows real teamwork achieves success. Leicester City have players who have emerged as comparable to the best, for instance striker Jamie Vardy, the highest scorer in the EPL; midfielder Riyad Mahrez who himself is among the top goal scorers; and goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel whose phenomenal saves turned matches around for his club. Yet, none of them behave like superstars or prima donnas.
They show by the way they play that they know they will achieve success only if they play as a team. Leicester’s win reminds us to look at the value of a true team versus a collection of talented individuals.
Third, discipline matters. Leicester City are known to be among the most rigorously training teams in the EPL.
Also, Leicester City have had the fewest number of players sent off, or who have had to miss games through suspension. They train and play hard, but play fair and by the rules.
And, finally, value for money. Leicester’s management and Ranieri opted to bring in seasoned veterans and new players with potential, not hotshot superstars. They did it at a fraction of the price paid by the top clubs for their players who cost a fortune.
The most expensive individuals don’t necessarily make the best team. Blending experience with exuberance and conscientiously moulding them will make a winning team.
While these lessons make good sense for building a successful sports club, they are equally relevant for building a successful enterprise or a progressive nation.
Rueben Dudley
Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
The Star/ANN