As others have said tremendous post by Guitarmark says it how it is in the real world.
In reality we can't financially compete with the big boys so when we spend its much more of a gamble in the hope of finding a few Raph's rather than JKA. Buying would not guarantee a top spot, too many clubs can out spend us, overspend and still fail its back to square one.
My hope is we keep Bielsa as long as possible but not sure we will.
My first thoughts is he'll go at the end of this season based purely on the fact he's been here longer than anywhere else.
However against that I truly believe he likes it here, likes the area and likes the support he's getting from Radz and may just stay on.
Why ?
He's a coach first most and a coach is interested in improving players, improving the team which will always take time with many ups and downs on the way. Think he feels supported in what he wants to achieve.
Sure we can still buy a few on the way to plug weak areas but those expecting or wanting lots of players are always going to be disappointed.
During his time here a lot of effort and some cash has been spent on improving the whole Club set up at all levels and we are seeing that with the U'23s. I don't think I'm alone in feeling we have a fair number closing in on progressing up the ladder. Signings would put a block in stunt their progression and development.
Lets not forget the U'23s have moved up 2 divisions in 2 years and in the main play mainly Under 20's while the under18s have a few 15/16 year olds in there ranks.
I appreciate there are always calls to bring young players in but think the first step is how they perform training with the first team, then travel and sit on the bench before eventually getting the odd cameo role. It is all about progression and something that shouldn't be rushed, young players are often full of confidence but that can be knocked out of them if pushed forward too early. Yes there are exceptions who take to it like a fish does to water such as Struijk and Meslier but again others that you are convinced are the bees knees just stagnate if pushed too early(Jamie Forrester, Simon Walton, Aidy White, etc).
A good coach to guide them is critical.
On the same note I know some are worried about our players in and around the 30's mark but I feel they are just holding the fort until the youngsters overtake them, we need to be patient IMHO. Could be like Man Utd and spending millions on 36year olds
Back to Marcelo and I feel he sees our Club as his last project (unless he goes back to Rosario) and may just want to stick around to see his set up pay the dividends for all the work that as gone into it.
But hell I'm not going to 2nd guess him, if he goes I'll say thanks for the memories and the great football but if he stays and sees the job through I'll be delighted.
Anyone that thinks we can get better all I'll say is "Be careful what you wish for".