Gerrard's impressive start to his managing career would be made more convincing by finding Premier League success, while Aston Villa desires much more than just survival.
The author of Fever Pitch, the celebrated memoir of football fanhood, considers the fraying relationship between supporter and shareholder ahead of a new season.
Man City has signed the Aston Villa creator for an English- and club-record fee, and how he fits in Pep Guardiola's system is up for debate. But if it works, look out.