When did pre-season friendly tournaments become so serious?

[Cornpattbuck]

Keep reading reports (seemingly with no tongue-in-cheek) about the latest team to add "another piece of silverware to their trophy cabinet" and thinking: eh?

Is it just because it's the silly season, or do people genuinely now think of winning two friendly games and getting a cup as one to tick off on the list of achievements in a season?

 

[Danners9]

'made his debut..'
'scored his first goal for..'

If we're going to count friendly tournaments as real games for these purposes, may as well include training sessions as well.

It's just to fill the void and generate some interest though, otherwise it's shown up for what it is: totally boring.

AC Milan vs Inter Milan in China, zzz.
Roma vs Real Madrid.. WOW.. nah, 0-0 and goes to penalties.

Later there is Man Utd vs Barcelona. I may start to watch that but with low expectations.

 

[Gbspurs]

Money!!!!!!

 

[PrettyColors]

Because fans pay more attention to the transfers than the actual matches?

 

[Col_M]

As Abba once said, Can you hear,,,, no sorry, I meant Money Money Money. Overseas market has increased and that's what is bringing in the huge TV deals.

I wonder if prem clubs are contractually obligated to tour?

 

[tototoner]

They haven't unless you change serious with lucrative.

On a related side note last weekend when 3 massive sporting events were on at the same time, The Open - Lords Ashes Test - Davis Cup tennis, Talksport had full commentary of a meaningless friendly between Arsenal and Everton in Singapore - like who gives a shit about that, pathetic

 

[aliyid]

Do you mean to say that I can't use our victory in the 2009 Barclays Asia Trophy as bragging rights

 

[SpainSpur85]

I think it's because we get so bored when there's no football on, that any BS friendly becomes something to look forward to. Also there's the "player x is crap and a waste of money" jibes we all get and give, then first game they play, if they score it's an instant rebuttal. I'm trying to ignore the money side of it, but these prestige games bring in money which in turn leads to better players and more excitement then the cycle starts again.