The Glory Hunter syndrome - From the perspective of a Barcelona fan

Millions celebrate. But who’s real? And who fake?

Lost in this sea of euphoria, I perceived an extremely similar wave going around our corner, mostly comprising of Barcelona fans.

No one seemed worried about the potential trouble Barca’s midfield might be in with this transfer. Sure, even I found Alexis something of a liability at times, but he was basically a right winger.

Iniesta’s moving back into central midfield, where he belongs, could spell doom for Cesc Fabregas, at least till Xavi retired. Also, the potential proliferation of left wingers in the side (we already had Tello and Pedro) was another issue.

Sure, some say that all issues could be resolved by playing Neymar as a striker, but it would be doubtful if Barcelona abandon their successful 4-3-3. The only plausible solution was to play the Brazilian on the wrong flank, but it was a mighty expensive trial to undertake.

Suddenly, my eyes fall on another friend in the crowd with a similar expression of distaste on his face. As he exited the swarm to join me, all he said was:

“They only care about a glut of goals and Messi proving his supremacy over Ronaldo. The rest, to them, are plain numbers made to join the team to ensure the presence of eleven men on the pitch.

I doubt how many fans care about the defence lying in disarray. Even how many respect that very midfield which is the real anchor of all the beauty Barcelona now possesses.

I have nothing against Neymar, he is a fantastic striker, and I truly hope he covers us with glory. Still, how many of them actually respect the roots of the side we so love? The era of Cruyff and the Dream Team? The troika of Figo, Guardiola and Rivaldo? Ronaldinho dashing down the flanks with that trademark smile on his face? It’s just a passing trend, buddy! We’ll see how many of them stay should the balance of power change.”

Even as I felt somewhat comforted, my mind went back to a close friend who was similarly disillusioned when Robin van Persie signed for Manchester United, fearing it would lead to the overshadowing of Welbeck and the other guys United had.

The ensuing season defied all such calls of doom and gloom, as Sir Alex Ferguson’s effective man management prevented any untoward incident. It shall all fall in place, I mused.

As I walked back post lunch, I had one thought spinning in my mind.

Glory hunting is an inevitable part of any sport, particularly those as large as football.

While it remains another manner to express the love for the game, it constantly leaves a true fan bereft of a comforting ear during hard times. It is another extension of the ancient law of success, the more successful one is, the harder it is to find true friends.

The best course of action remains to turn a remain neutral to these people, and move ahead with life, because in the end, those we desire find us.

Till then, we all salute those, who support a team because it strikes a chord with them, and not because it’s the flavour of the month. Wishing all an amazing football season ahead.