Is public criticism a legitimate part of management – and when does it go too far?

Mourinho Spurs

Jose Mourinho’s public criticism of Tanguy Ndombele has re-emphasised an old issue. Whether Mourinho was actually critical is questionable, he really just verbalised a frustration which is widely shared and of which everyone is aware, but the reaction has highlighted again just what a sensitive issue the commentary around players can be.

To many, this is the third rail of modern football - the place where you must never, ever step.

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Seb Stafford-Bloor is a football writer at Tifo Football and member of the Football Writers' Association. He was formerly a regularly columnist for the FourFourTwo website, covering all aspects of the game, including tactical analysis, reaction pieces, longer-term trends and critiquing the increasingly shady business of football's financial side and authorities' decision-making.