The term describes a manager losing authority or respect within the first-team squad. According to BBC Sport, this phenomenon often follows a series of poor results or public criticism of players by their coach. Phil McNulty reports that modern players hold significant power due to their high market values and long-term contracts. This shift means a manager can no longer rely solely on fear or discipline to maintain control.
Communication breakdowns often trigger the decline. Per BBC Sport, when a manager fails to explain tactical decisions or squad rotations, players may begin to question their leadership. Former Everton manager Frank Lampard previously stated that trust is the most vital component of the relationship between a coach and the squad. Once that trust disappears, internal cliques can form and undermine the manager's tactical instructions on the pitch. According to the analysis, such situations usually lead to the departure of the manager as owners find it easier to replace one person than an entire squad.
