Barnet FC: The Edgar Davids Era
In 2012, a struggling team at the bottom of the Football League, lacking any victories and already under the guidance of a manager, took an unexpected turn when Netherlands legend Edgar Davids stepped into the role of player-head coach. This move raised eyebrows, as Davids was known for his illustrious playing career rather than his coaching experience. Nevertheless, he embarked on this new chapter with Barnet, nearly saving them from relegation in the Football League and then navigating through a peculiar period in the Conference. Over a decade later, Barnet fans still hold fond memories of Davids’ time at the club.
Why did Davids choose to join a team like Barnet, you ask? Well, despite his decorated career with the Netherlands national team and prominent clubs like Ajax, Juventus, and Barcelona, Davids was in London pursuing his coaching badges. Barnet’s chairman, Anthony Kleanthous, saw an opportunity to assist Davids in obtaining his qualifications while benefiting the club. The arrangement was unconventional, as Davids did not request any financial compensation for his 15-month tenure with the team.
Jointly appointed as head coach alongside Mark Robson, Davids immediately made an impact on the struggling Barnet squad. His leadership on and off the field was evident, with Davids even donning the captain’s armband and delivering standout performances. However, the dynamic between Davids and Robson soon soured, leading to Davids assuming sole control of the managerial reins. This transition marked the beginning of a unique era characterized by Davids’ unorthodox methods and relentless pursuit of success.
Davids’ intense training sessions and unwavering commitment to excellence pushed the Barnet players to their limits. His competitive spirit, honed through years of top-level football, set a high standard within the team. Despite some initial resistance from players unaccustomed to such rigorous demands, Davids’ influence fostered a sense of unity and determination among the squad. As striker Jake Hyde recalls, Davids’ presence fueled a newfound motivation that propelled his own career to new heights.
While Davids’ impact on the team was undeniable, his tenure at Barnet was not without its challenges. The team’s relegation from the Football League marked a turning point, leading to a tumultuous season in the Conference. Davids’ decision to adopt the number one shirt and assume multiple roles within the team drew mixed reactions from fans and opponents alike. His fiery demeanor on the pitch often led to confrontations and disciplinary issues, culminating in a series of red cards that marred his final matches as a player.
As Barnet navigated through the ups and downs of Davids’ managerial stint, the team faced external pressures and internal conflicts that ultimately led to his departure. Davids’ absence from crucial away games and his partial commitment to the role raised concerns among club officials and players alike. Despite his undeniable impact on the team’s performance and morale, Davids’ unconventional approach to management ultimately led to his exit from Barnet.
In retrospect, Davids’ time at Barnet remains a captivating chapter in the club’s history, marked by moments of brilliance and controversy. While his departure left a void that was later filled by new leadership, Davids’ legacy as a player-head coach continues to resonate with fans and players who experienced his unique coaching style firsthand. As Barnet looks to the future, the echoes of Davids’ tenure serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of one of football’s most iconic figures.
