Not really a gunners fan but an Arsene Wenger fan yy. In the same way I used to be a Brian Clough fan when he managed Derby County and Nottingham Forest in the 70s.
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Manchester United 2014-2015
- Thread starter yinyang
- Start date
Not really a gunners fan but an Arsene Wenger fan yy. In the same way I used to be a Brian Clough fan when he managed Derby County and Nottingham Forest in the 70s.
Oh, typo or mispell ...you meant Arse Wanker :p
Sacking LVG will not solve United's woes. He could have rebuilt United from the bottom up especially with the loss of three captains and vice captains in a single season and that too in defence. United need leaders in defence and midfield. They dun have a single ball winner (DM) other than Carrick. Forget Blind. The guy has no pace and lacks aggression.
When your best player is your goalkeeper, de Gea, it's really a clear indication of just how poor LvG's team selection is. He really needs to pin down his first eleven and stick to it.
Mata is so under-utilised, I fear he could soon leave OT which would be a travesty.
Agreed. If I were the owner, I'd give LVG the sack and put you up for the job. It's only a few more games to the end of the season and we're still guessing the best eleven he's going to put up and the position they're gonna play, let alone the formation.
Mata is easily the most hardworking and creative of the lot and he's sitting on the bench?!!
My guess is he'll make room to bring in a midfielder of his choice. Rumor's been that it will be a player for player exchange with Athletico Madrid.
Can Louis van Gaal save Manchester United's season?
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/31809302
Manchester United's high wire act this season - stumbling while flirting with danger before somehow surviving - finally ended with a painful fall as Arsenal condemned them to two seasons without success for the first time in 26 years.
United's obvious frailties have been covered by the results that took them to the FA Cup quarter-final against Arsenal and also into the top four in the Premier League. Victory would have allowed manager Louis van Gaal to put an optimistic gloss on the closing phase of a mixed season. Instead, Monday's 2-1 defeat raised serious questions of just how far United have come since the sacking of David Moyes and the appointment of the highly-regarded Dutchman.
Five games to save United's season
Van Gaal made the FA Cup a prime trophy target in his first season with no European football as a distraction and the Capital One Cup pushed out of reach by a humiliating 4-0 thrashing at MK Dons. Now he must make sure the not insignificant prize of a place in the top four and a return to the Champions League, United's natural habitat under Sir Alex Ferguson, is secured.
When United beat Liverpool 3-0 at Old Trafford on 14 December, they established a 10-point lead over Brendan Rodgers' side, who were languishing in 10th place and off the pace. Since then, Liverpool have been rejuvenated spectacularly and now - along with Arsenal and Tottenham - pose a serious threat to Van Gaal's remaining ambition for this season as they stand only two points adrift.
Quarter-final match facts
Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini conceded eight fouls during the game - the entire Arsenal team managed only 11
Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has scored eight goals in his last nine FA Cup matches. There have now been five red cards in the last eight FA Cup matches between Arsenal and Manchester United. Danny Welbeck has scored eight goals for Arsenal since leaving Manchester United last summer - he scored 29 for United
How United cope with their next five Premier League games will surely shape the outcome. They face sixth-placed Spurs at Old Trafford on Sunday (16:00 GMT) with Mauricio Pochettino's side three points behind United. Then there is a pivotal game at Anfield on Sunday, 22 March. On current form, Liverpool will be favourites.
This is followed by two home games, firstly against struggling Aston Villa before the derby with Manchester City on Sunday, 12 April. A visit to Chelsea completes this potentially defining period. When it is over, it is likely Van Gaal will be closer to knowing whether his target has been achieved. If it has, it will shape the mood of Manchester United's summer.
In Van Gaal's defence, it would have been unrealistic to expect him to finish above Chelsea and Manchester City, given their level of investment and his own need to rebuild - but missing out on the Champions League now would be a devastating blow.
Former captain Roy Keane said it would be a "disaster" if United did not make the top four. The Champions League is not just lucrative, it is the biggest lever to attract stars of the stature they will need. Van Gaal's future prospects would be bleaker should he fail.
Transfer failures
The sight of Danny Welbeck, the striker Van Gaal let go, striking the decisive blow to send Arsenal into the FA Cup semi-finals while Radamel Falcao was not even summoned from the bench as United's saviour, was heavy in symbolism.
Van Gaal's cold explanation of Welbeck's sale to Arsenal for £16m on transfer deadline day in September was that "he was more a substitute than a line-up player". On a night that further stalled United's progress under the Dutchman, it was the celebrated Falcao who was the substitute while Welbeck was not merely a line-up player but also Arsenal's match-winner.
If ever there was an evening to underscore the fact that Old Trafford is still waiting for Van Gaal's new names to sparkle, this was it.
And there was no bigger example than £59.7m British record signing Angel Di Maria. The Argentine, for once stationed in his correct position on the flank, did show flashes of his gifts, particularly with a perfect cross for Wayne Rooney's equaliser.
His night ended in ignominy, however, when he foolishly dragged at referee Michael Oliver's shirt after being booked for diving, resulting in an inevitable second yellow.
It was an inexcusable piece of blockheadedness - but perhaps also hinted at Di Maria's mental turmoil at his current failure to transfer the brilliance he showed for Real Madrid and Argentina to Old Trafford.
Luke Shaw, signed from Southampton for £27m, suffered another injury, while the suspicion lurks that Ander Herrera has not convinced Van Gaal. He was taken off at half-time. Moyes almost signed the Spaniard and he pitched up again after Van Gaal arrived. How influential was the current manager in that deal?
Midfielder Daley Blind was pedestrian and has rarely looked like a game-changer, while defender Marcos Rojo was rash and unconvincing in attempting to cope with sharp interchanges from Arsenal's attackers.
And so, back to Falcao. The Colombia striker was a spectator, even when United needed a goal to save their hopes of a trophy. He was the stellar star supposedly destined to add that gloss and ruthless finishing it was felt Welbeck would never bring.
It is hard to see how United can justify completing what would be a hugely expensive deal for Falcao. These last few weeks must somehow be used to provide evidence he has not simply become an ornament, a vanity purchase by Van Gaal and United.
United paid £6m to sign him on a season-long loan from Monaco in September and would need to fork out £43.5m to make his deal permanent.
What is Van Gaal's philosophy?
Van Gaal rightly deserves instant respect for a decorated career - but the sight of Marouane Fellaini and Chris Smalling up front in the closing stages and target for a succession of long balls was hardly the stuff of a tactical innovator.
Indeed, it smacked of tactical bankruptcy rather than the "philosophy" Van Gaal has espoused since his arrival. You can guarantee Moyes would have been pilloried for a similarly stone-age approach in a losing cause. The assumption is that a coach of Van Gaal's calibre has a clear plan. The problem is that on many occasions this season it has been tough to detect what the plan actually is.
Fellaini has improved after a dreadful first season following his £27.5m move from Everton but his role appears to be as United's blunt instrument in times of trouble. The Belgian represents a lumbering legacy of the failed Moyes era, an uncomfortable fit with United's finest traditions. He was booked for persistent fouling on Monday and, while not their worst performer, he is hardly a signpost for a bright new generation.
Van Gaal still shifts between three and four at the back in a defence riddled with the sort of uncertainty that has Smalling conceding possession on an alarming basis and Antonio Valencia setting up Welbeck's winner. If it was not for the world-class goalkeeper David De Gea, United's rivals for a place in the top four would be scenting more blood than they already do because defensively the 20-time English champions are often shambolic. De Gea's brilliance has covered up gaping cracks. Phil Jones and Smalling have not kicked on, indeed have gone backwards, while Jonny Evans is suspended and Rojo has been mixed.
At least Rooney has been restored as a striker and responded with another goal but after a promising first half, Van Gaal's side were sloppy, slow and second best after the break. Arsenal were deserved winners. With Robin van Persie a fading force and Falcao and Di Maria under-achieving, an old truth remains. United are still so reliant on Rooney. For drive. For goals. For determination. For all the names added to the squad, England and United's captain still remains the most important.
Van Gaal, whose team have won one more game than they had at this stage last season under Moyes, will apparently be given another £100m for further adjustments in the summer. Perhaps this will help make a philosophy which currently looks muddled and lost in a fog come into clearer view.
United's ill-discipline was also revelatory. Di Maria's red card was madness, his tug on the shirt of referee Oliver - who gave a magnificent display of officialdom under the extreme pressure of a home crowd and players in an increasingly blind panic - coming after a dive. Adnan Januzaj also attempted to deceive Oliver with a dive so late it almost came in the opening moments of Sunday's game with Spurs. Desperation did not cover it.
They also picked up seven bookings, a guarantee of FA censure. So, you get the idea - this was a dreadful night for Van Gaal and Manchester United.
Success will come with fourth place. This alone is a measure of how far they must travel to even dream of revisiting any of the glories of the Sir Alex Ferguson years.
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/31809302
Manchester United's high wire act this season - stumbling while flirting with danger before somehow surviving - finally ended with a painful fall as Arsenal condemned them to two seasons without success for the first time in 26 years.
United's obvious frailties have been covered by the results that took them to the FA Cup quarter-final against Arsenal and also into the top four in the Premier League. Victory would have allowed manager Louis van Gaal to put an optimistic gloss on the closing phase of a mixed season. Instead, Monday's 2-1 defeat raised serious questions of just how far United have come since the sacking of David Moyes and the appointment of the highly-regarded Dutchman.
Five games to save United's season
Van Gaal made the FA Cup a prime trophy target in his first season with no European football as a distraction and the Capital One Cup pushed out of reach by a humiliating 4-0 thrashing at MK Dons. Now he must make sure the not insignificant prize of a place in the top four and a return to the Champions League, United's natural habitat under Sir Alex Ferguson, is secured.
When United beat Liverpool 3-0 at Old Trafford on 14 December, they established a 10-point lead over Brendan Rodgers' side, who were languishing in 10th place and off the pace. Since then, Liverpool have been rejuvenated spectacularly and now - along with Arsenal and Tottenham - pose a serious threat to Van Gaal's remaining ambition for this season as they stand only two points adrift.
Quarter-final match facts
Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini conceded eight fouls during the game - the entire Arsenal team managed only 11
Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has scored eight goals in his last nine FA Cup matches. There have now been five red cards in the last eight FA Cup matches between Arsenal and Manchester United. Danny Welbeck has scored eight goals for Arsenal since leaving Manchester United last summer - he scored 29 for United
How United cope with their next five Premier League games will surely shape the outcome. They face sixth-placed Spurs at Old Trafford on Sunday (16:00 GMT) with Mauricio Pochettino's side three points behind United. Then there is a pivotal game at Anfield on Sunday, 22 March. On current form, Liverpool will be favourites.
This is followed by two home games, firstly against struggling Aston Villa before the derby with Manchester City on Sunday, 12 April. A visit to Chelsea completes this potentially defining period. When it is over, it is likely Van Gaal will be closer to knowing whether his target has been achieved. If it has, it will shape the mood of Manchester United's summer.
In Van Gaal's defence, it would have been unrealistic to expect him to finish above Chelsea and Manchester City, given their level of investment and his own need to rebuild - but missing out on the Champions League now would be a devastating blow.
Former captain Roy Keane said it would be a "disaster" if United did not make the top four. The Champions League is not just lucrative, it is the biggest lever to attract stars of the stature they will need. Van Gaal's future prospects would be bleaker should he fail.
Transfer failures
The sight of Danny Welbeck, the striker Van Gaal let go, striking the decisive blow to send Arsenal into the FA Cup semi-finals while Radamel Falcao was not even summoned from the bench as United's saviour, was heavy in symbolism.
Van Gaal's cold explanation of Welbeck's sale to Arsenal for £16m on transfer deadline day in September was that "he was more a substitute than a line-up player". On a night that further stalled United's progress under the Dutchman, it was the celebrated Falcao who was the substitute while Welbeck was not merely a line-up player but also Arsenal's match-winner.
If ever there was an evening to underscore the fact that Old Trafford is still waiting for Van Gaal's new names to sparkle, this was it.
And there was no bigger example than £59.7m British record signing Angel Di Maria. The Argentine, for once stationed in his correct position on the flank, did show flashes of his gifts, particularly with a perfect cross for Wayne Rooney's equaliser.
His night ended in ignominy, however, when he foolishly dragged at referee Michael Oliver's shirt after being booked for diving, resulting in an inevitable second yellow.
It was an inexcusable piece of blockheadedness - but perhaps also hinted at Di Maria's mental turmoil at his current failure to transfer the brilliance he showed for Real Madrid and Argentina to Old Trafford.
Luke Shaw, signed from Southampton for £27m, suffered another injury, while the suspicion lurks that Ander Herrera has not convinced Van Gaal. He was taken off at half-time. Moyes almost signed the Spaniard and he pitched up again after Van Gaal arrived. How influential was the current manager in that deal?
Midfielder Daley Blind was pedestrian and has rarely looked like a game-changer, while defender Marcos Rojo was rash and unconvincing in attempting to cope with sharp interchanges from Arsenal's attackers.
And so, back to Falcao. The Colombia striker was a spectator, even when United needed a goal to save their hopes of a trophy. He was the stellar star supposedly destined to add that gloss and ruthless finishing it was felt Welbeck would never bring.
It is hard to see how United can justify completing what would be a hugely expensive deal for Falcao. These last few weeks must somehow be used to provide evidence he has not simply become an ornament, a vanity purchase by Van Gaal and United.
United paid £6m to sign him on a season-long loan from Monaco in September and would need to fork out £43.5m to make his deal permanent.
What is Van Gaal's philosophy?
Van Gaal rightly deserves instant respect for a decorated career - but the sight of Marouane Fellaini and Chris Smalling up front in the closing stages and target for a succession of long balls was hardly the stuff of a tactical innovator.
Indeed, it smacked of tactical bankruptcy rather than the "philosophy" Van Gaal has espoused since his arrival. You can guarantee Moyes would have been pilloried for a similarly stone-age approach in a losing cause. The assumption is that a coach of Van Gaal's calibre has a clear plan. The problem is that on many occasions this season it has been tough to detect what the plan actually is.
Fellaini has improved after a dreadful first season following his £27.5m move from Everton but his role appears to be as United's blunt instrument in times of trouble. The Belgian represents a lumbering legacy of the failed Moyes era, an uncomfortable fit with United's finest traditions. He was booked for persistent fouling on Monday and, while not their worst performer, he is hardly a signpost for a bright new generation.
Van Gaal still shifts between three and four at the back in a defence riddled with the sort of uncertainty that has Smalling conceding possession on an alarming basis and Antonio Valencia setting up Welbeck's winner. If it was not for the world-class goalkeeper David De Gea, United's rivals for a place in the top four would be scenting more blood than they already do because defensively the 20-time English champions are often shambolic. De Gea's brilliance has covered up gaping cracks. Phil Jones and Smalling have not kicked on, indeed have gone backwards, while Jonny Evans is suspended and Rojo has been mixed.
At least Rooney has been restored as a striker and responded with another goal but after a promising first half, Van Gaal's side were sloppy, slow and second best after the break. Arsenal were deserved winners. With Robin van Persie a fading force and Falcao and Di Maria under-achieving, an old truth remains. United are still so reliant on Rooney. For drive. For goals. For determination. For all the names added to the squad, England and United's captain still remains the most important.
Van Gaal, whose team have won one more game than they had at this stage last season under Moyes, will apparently be given another £100m for further adjustments in the summer. Perhaps this will help make a philosophy which currently looks muddled and lost in a fog come into clearer view.
United's ill-discipline was also revelatory. Di Maria's red card was madness, his tug on the shirt of referee Oliver - who gave a magnificent display of officialdom under the extreme pressure of a home crowd and players in an increasingly blind panic - coming after a dive. Adnan Januzaj also attempted to deceive Oliver with a dive so late it almost came in the opening moments of Sunday's game with Spurs. Desperation did not cover it.
They also picked up seven bookings, a guarantee of FA censure. So, you get the idea - this was a dreadful night for Van Gaal and Manchester United.
Success will come with fourth place. This alone is a measure of how far they must travel to even dream of revisiting any of the glories of the Sir Alex Ferguson years.
More 150mil gbp for the kitty? Now the hyped squad not performing to make the sure cut CL (with more contentious games in ensuing weeks). 
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal to get £150m war chest even without top-four spot
MANCHESTER UNITED will stick by Louis van Gaal even if he fails to clinch a return to the Champions League – and will be given a £150million-plus transfer war chest to complete his overhaul of the squad.
United's faith in Van Gaal's 'project' is understood to remain unshaken despite Monday's FA Cup exit to Arsenal sentencing the club to two consecutive seasons without a trophy for the first time since the late 1980s and disquiet among supporters with United's long ball tactics.
United's top-four hopes face a defining month with games against Tottenham, Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea looming but the Old Trafford hierarchy are understood to be loathe to make another managerial change a year after sacking Sir Alex Ferguson's successor David Moyes.
And they will underline their belief that progress is being made under Van Gaal, who has a three-year contract, by backing him this summer when Southampton right back Nathaniel Clyne, Borussia Dortmund centre-half Mats Hummels, Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman, PSV Eindhoven winger Memphis Depay, West Brom striker Saido Berahino and Burnley free agent Danny Ings will all be on the radar.
Loan star Radamel Falcao, Robin van Persie, Juan Mata and Rafael Da Silva could all be heading for the exit door in another major summer upheaval at Old Trafford.
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal to get £150m war chest even without top-four spot
MANCHESTER UNITED will stick by Louis van Gaal even if he fails to clinch a return to the Champions League – and will be given a £150million-plus transfer war chest to complete his overhaul of the squad.
United's faith in Van Gaal's 'project' is understood to remain unshaken despite Monday's FA Cup exit to Arsenal sentencing the club to two consecutive seasons without a trophy for the first time since the late 1980s and disquiet among supporters with United's long ball tactics.
United's top-four hopes face a defining month with games against Tottenham, Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea looming but the Old Trafford hierarchy are understood to be loathe to make another managerial change a year after sacking Sir Alex Ferguson's successor David Moyes.
And they will underline their belief that progress is being made under Van Gaal, who has a three-year contract, by backing him this summer when Southampton right back Nathaniel Clyne, Borussia Dortmund centre-half Mats Hummels, Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman, PSV Eindhoven winger Memphis Depay, West Brom striker Saido Berahino and Burnley free agent Danny Ings will all be on the radar.
Loan star Radamel Falcao, Robin van Persie, Juan Mata and Rafael Da Silva could all be heading for the exit door in another major summer upheaval at Old Trafford.
Back to shore up leaking behind? :p
Man Utd given the GREEN LIGHT to RE-SIGN Nemanja Vidic
MANCHESTER UNITED have received a boost in their pursuit of Nemanja Vidic.
Vidic, who left Old Trafford at the end of last season, is currently plying his trade in Italy with Inter Milan.
Since his move to Milan, the Serbian, 33, has struggled to settle in Roberto Mancini's side and has only made 15 appearances for the Nerazzurri.
Vidic's failure to hold down a place in the starting 11 at the Giuseppe Meazza has prompted a host of Europe's top clubs to look at the former Red Star Belgrade ace.
And his agent, Silvano Martina, has given those teams a huge boost by hinting that his client could leave Milan at the end of the season.
“He’s fine,” Martina told Fc-Inter.net.
“Inter are a great club, and any player would be happy to wear the Nerazzurri shirt.
“Will he be at Inter next season? I’m not a magician, I can’t see the future.”
Martina's comments regarding Vidic's future will be music to the ears of Manchester United.
Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal is reportedly a big admirer of the dominating centre-back and is understood to be interested in luring him back to the Theatre of Dreams this summer.
Man Utd given the GREEN LIGHT to RE-SIGN Nemanja Vidic
MANCHESTER UNITED have received a boost in their pursuit of Nemanja Vidic.
Vidic, who left Old Trafford at the end of last season, is currently plying his trade in Italy with Inter Milan.
Since his move to Milan, the Serbian, 33, has struggled to settle in Roberto Mancini's side and has only made 15 appearances for the Nerazzurri.
Vidic's failure to hold down a place in the starting 11 at the Giuseppe Meazza has prompted a host of Europe's top clubs to look at the former Red Star Belgrade ace.
And his agent, Silvano Martina, has given those teams a huge boost by hinting that his client could leave Milan at the end of the season.
“He’s fine,” Martina told Fc-Inter.net.
“Inter are a great club, and any player would be happy to wear the Nerazzurri shirt.
“Will he be at Inter next season? I’m not a magician, I can’t see the future.”
Martina's comments regarding Vidic's future will be music to the ears of Manchester United.
Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal is reportedly a big admirer of the dominating centre-back and is understood to be interested in luring him back to the Theatre of Dreams this summer.
The cull in summer? 
Louis van Gaal set to AXE 10 Man Utd stars as he plots quadruple transfer raid
LOUIS VAN GAAL is preparing for a busy summer in the transfer market. The Manchester United boss is eager to add quality to his squad as he bids to revive the club's fortunes.
The Daily Telegraph reports that four positions dominate Van Gaal's thinking, with a right-back, centre-back, central midfielder and striker all top of the wanted list for the Dutch manager.
And in order to finance his multi-million raid on the market, the United boss is set to axe as many as 10 first team players.
Reports have linked Van Gaal with a move for Southampton's Nathaniel Clyne, who has enjoyed a fine season on the south coast.
He is being scouted by the Manchester giants as a potential replacement for Rafael, who will be allowed to leave the club in the summer.
According to the Telegraph, Athletic Bilbao's french defender Aymeric Laporte is being considered for the centre-back vacancy, with Borussia Dortmund's Mats Hummels also an option.
Reports have linked the likes of Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin Strootman with the midfield role at United.
However, Van Gaal's hopes of signing his countryman Strootman appear to have been dashed after the Roma star was ruled out until pre-season following a second knee operation in a year.
Loan striker Radamel Falcao could be replaced by Paris St-Germain's Edinson Cavani, the Telegraph suggest, however, Burnley's Danny Ings is also an option to bolster United's attack.
Meanwhile, doubt surrounds the future of the likes of Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Jonny Evans and Javier Hernandez, whose contract are drawing to an end at Old Trafford.
Tom Cleverley, who is on loan at Aston Villa, will not be offered a new contract when his deal expires in the summer, while Anders Lindegaard and Rafael will reportedly be ushered out of the club.
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/fo...an-Gaal-Man-Utd-stars-quadruple-transfer-raid
Louis van Gaal set to AXE 10 Man Utd stars as he plots quadruple transfer raid
LOUIS VAN GAAL is preparing for a busy summer in the transfer market. The Manchester United boss is eager to add quality to his squad as he bids to revive the club's fortunes.
The Daily Telegraph reports that four positions dominate Van Gaal's thinking, with a right-back, centre-back, central midfielder and striker all top of the wanted list for the Dutch manager.
And in order to finance his multi-million raid on the market, the United boss is set to axe as many as 10 first team players.
Reports have linked Van Gaal with a move for Southampton's Nathaniel Clyne, who has enjoyed a fine season on the south coast.
He is being scouted by the Manchester giants as a potential replacement for Rafael, who will be allowed to leave the club in the summer.
According to the Telegraph, Athletic Bilbao's french defender Aymeric Laporte is being considered for the centre-back vacancy, with Borussia Dortmund's Mats Hummels also an option.
Reports have linked the likes of Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin Strootman with the midfield role at United.
However, Van Gaal's hopes of signing his countryman Strootman appear to have been dashed after the Roma star was ruled out until pre-season following a second knee operation in a year.
Loan striker Radamel Falcao could be replaced by Paris St-Germain's Edinson Cavani, the Telegraph suggest, however, Burnley's Danny Ings is also an option to bolster United's attack.
Meanwhile, doubt surrounds the future of the likes of Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Jonny Evans and Javier Hernandez, whose contract are drawing to an end at Old Trafford.
Tom Cleverley, who is on loan at Aston Villa, will not be offered a new contract when his deal expires in the summer, while Anders Lindegaard and Rafael will reportedly be ushered out of the club.
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/fo...an-Gaal-Man-Utd-stars-quadruple-transfer-raid
José Mourinho v Sir Alex Ferguson: how to leave a club in good shape
Chelsea did not fall apart when José Mourinho left in 2007 but Manchester United have crumbled since Sir Alex Ferguson departed 20 months ago
Roy Keane, appearing as a BBC pundit as Manchester United made an FA Cup exit at the hands of Arsenal, had the following to say about the future of his old club. “Louis van Gaal is going to get criticised, you’d expect that, but he’s only been in the door two minutes. Give the man a chance – two or three years. They should have given David Moyes more time but didn’t. What are they going to do, chop and change again? It’s literally a rebuilding job. United not finishing in the top four would be a disaster.”
That seems sensible enough. Fair and calmly reasoned even, all the things one would not normally associate with a Keane reaction. But if United are “literally a rebuilding job”, why exactly is that when they have had 20 years at the top of English football? How can a winning machine that has brought in so much success, money, talent and worldwide acclaim for so long fall to pieces merely through a change of manager?.............................................
http://www.theguardian.com/football...-mourinho-alex-ferguson-leave-club-good-shape
You can write a book on why United was left wanting in post Ferguson era. I sense that the writer has underestimated the importance and the role of a technical director. Stamford Bridge and old Trafford differ in many areas but like all top clubs their mission is to grow the club organically by widening the support base across the globe through performances on the field and winning trophies.
It was painfully obvious that Old Trafford needs to restructure. For starters, install a technical director much like what the other top clubs have done. It makes no sense to give LVG another 3-5 years of rebuilding only for it to fall apart when he leaves. I reckon they will exercise this option soon enough to ensure sustainability,standards are maintained and above all power does not rest with one person. Chelsea did it and so did the other top clubs in Europe.
Not sure what the board of directors re doing but someone has to step up and lead the way.
It was painfully obvious that Old Trafford needs to restructure. For starters, install a technical director much like what the other top clubs have done. It makes no sense to give LVG another 3-5 years of rebuilding only for it to fall apart when he leaves. I reckon they will exercise this option soon enough to ensure sustainability,standards are maintained and above all power does not rest with one person. Chelsea did it and so did the other top clubs in Europe.
Not sure what the board of directors re doing but someone has to step up and lead the way.
More 150mil gbp for the kitty? Now the hyped squad not performing to make the sure cut CL (with more contentious games in ensuing weeks).
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal to get £150m war chest even without top-four spot
Buying more world class talent is not the issue anymore, Man Utd's problems lie far more closely with the footballing philosophy of LvG and the mentality of current players who are just simply under-performing. Plus the departures of some very good players such as Evra, Vidic and Welbeck.
Besides, if they fail to qualify for CL for a second straight season, which world class players will even consider joining them?
Don't disagree on both counts. Especially on the latter, success begets success in luring quality players. Proverbial chicken and egg thingy.
On books, the old fart's betting on his 2nd book (asides from his horses) :p
Sir Alex Ferguson: Manchester United great to release another book
Legendary manager's latest book to focus on his leadership skills and is co-written with author Sir Michael Mortiz.
Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is releasing another book this autmun.
Billed as an 'inspirational new book about leadership', the book will be co-written by the investor and author Sir Michael Moritz and will investigate Ferguson's 38-year managerial career.
Published by Hodder & Stoughton, the book will reveal 'the key tools he used to deliver sustained success on and off the field. From tactics to teamwork, from hiring to firing, from dealing with the boardroom to responding to failure, the book will analyse the pivotal leadership decisions of an astonishing career.'
Ferguson's second autobiography was only released in October 2013, with a revised version published late last year.
The Scot won 13 Premier League titles, five FA Cups, four League Cups, two Champions Leagues, the Intercontinental Cup, the Club World Cup and the European Cup Winners' Cup during 26-and-a-half glittering years at Old Trafford.
Ferguson said: "Since stepping into retirement I have had the opportunity to reflect on my time as a football manager, and to consider the reasons behind my success through personal recollections, conversations with Mike Moritz and my role at Harvard Business School.
"It has been a new experience for me to be looking into the past rather than planning for the future, but one that I have found enjoyable and rewarding.
"The process behind creating this book began many years ago following my first meeting with Mike, which immediately created a mutual respect for each other’s achievements.
"Over the past year, we have spent many hours together as we have worked our way through my life in order to draw out and discuss the key philosophies I applied during my career.
"I have been delighted by Mike’s approach and the quality of his work, I am sure the readers will appreciate what he has brought to the page. I could not have had a better partner for this project."
The media gossip's mind boggling, on RM's boss taking over LVG in summer and now this swap deal
PSG ready to offer Man Utd pick of FOUR top stars in swap deal for Angel Di Maria
PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN are ready to offer Manchester United their choice of four star players in exchange for Angel Di Maria, according to reports.
Di Maria only arrived at Old Trafford in a £60million move from Real Madrid last summer.
But reports suggest he may have already reached the end of the line in Manchester due to his lacklustre form, which was compounded by his sending off against Arsenal in the FA Cup on Monday.
Yesterday, Spanish sources suggested that Barcelona were ready to offer Pedro in part-exchange for the Argentine ace.
But reports in France this morning claim that PSG aren't out of the race to land the player, after coveting him before he joined United.
Financial Fair Play restrictions scuppered a move to the Parc des Princes at that time but the Ligue 1 outfit believe they may have found a way around that problem.
According to Le10Sport, PSG are aware of United's interest in Blaise Matuidi, Gregory van der Wiel, Adrien Rabiot and Marquinhos.
And it is claimed the Qatari-backed club are ready to offer United their pick of that quartet to land Di Maria, should he come onto the market at season's end.
http://www.express.co.uk/sport/foot...ngel-Di-Maria-transfer-news-Manchester-United
PSG ready to offer Man Utd pick of FOUR top stars in swap deal for Angel Di Maria
PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN are ready to offer Manchester United their choice of four star players in exchange for Angel Di Maria, according to reports.
Di Maria only arrived at Old Trafford in a £60million move from Real Madrid last summer.
But reports suggest he may have already reached the end of the line in Manchester due to his lacklustre form, which was compounded by his sending off against Arsenal in the FA Cup on Monday.
Yesterday, Spanish sources suggested that Barcelona were ready to offer Pedro in part-exchange for the Argentine ace.
But reports in France this morning claim that PSG aren't out of the race to land the player, after coveting him before he joined United.
Financial Fair Play restrictions scuppered a move to the Parc des Princes at that time but the Ligue 1 outfit believe they may have found a way around that problem.
According to Le10Sport, PSG are aware of United's interest in Blaise Matuidi, Gregory van der Wiel, Adrien Rabiot and Marquinhos.
And it is claimed the Qatari-backed club are ready to offer United their pick of that quartet to land Di Maria, should he come onto the market at season's end.
http://www.express.co.uk/sport/foot...ngel-Di-Maria-transfer-news-Manchester-United
Let's hope Keane is not mentioned. Methinks it's timely as there's a general lack of leadership on and off the field. There's room for shared leadership in a club like United.
The media gossip's mind boggling, on RM's boss taking over LVG in summer and now this swap deal
PSG ready to offer Man Utd pick of FOUR top stars in swap deal for Angel Di Maria
PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN are ready to offer Manchester United their choice of four star players in exchange for Angel Di Maria, according to reports.
Di Maria only arrived at Old Trafford in a £60million move from Real Madrid last summer.
But reports suggest he may have already reached the end of the line in Manchester due to his lacklustre form, which was compounded by his sending off against Arsenal in the FA Cup on Monday.
Yesterday, Spanish sources suggested that Barcelona were ready to offer Pedro in part-exchange for the Argentine ace.
But reports in France this morning claim that PSG aren't out of the race to land the player, after coveting him before he joined United.
Financial Fair Play restrictions scuppered a move to the Parc des Princes at that time but the Ligue 1 outfit believe they may have found a way around that problem.
According to Le10Sport, PSG are aware of United's interest in Blaise Matuidi, Gregory van der Wiel, Adrien Rabiot and Marquinhos.
And it is claimed the Qatari-backed club are ready to offer United their pick of that quartet to land Di Maria, should he come onto the market at season's end.
http://www.express.co.uk/sport/foot...ngel-Di-Maria-transfer-news-Manchester-United
This is where I lost the plot. ADM was coming off his peak for country and club. He had an outstanding season for Madrid and was easily Argentina's best player in the WC. Players go through that grey patch,Messi and Ron are no exceptions. LVG should keep faith with Di Maria. The center back is the problem area that needs attention. I very much doubt Hummels will come but they badly need a leader in this area.
Preview of tomorrow's show, how? Pundits predicting draw or away Spurs win, based on lacklustre performances and also Spurs winning form lately :p
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/31785852
TEAM NEWS
Manchester United will be without Angel Di Maria, who serves a one-game ban for his sending off against Arsenal, while Jonny Evans is also suspended.
Robin van Persie remains injured and Marcos Rojo is doubtful with a minor groin problem, but Ashley Young is fit despite hurting his leg on Monday.
Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino has a fully-fit squad.
Danny Rose could be recalled at left-back at Ben Davies' expense, and Mousa Dembele is also pushing for a start.
MATCH PREVIEW
With matches against Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea looming large after the visit of Spurs, Manchester United are entering a period which will go a long way to deciding whether or not they'll miss out on the Champions League for a second season in succession.
Lawro's prediction
"I thought Arsenal outplayed Manchester United in their win at Old Trafford in the FA Cup on Monday, and a poor result like that was definitely coming for Louis van Gaal's side. United had been winning an awful lot of games without playing particularly well and eventually someone is always going to come along and show you up a little bit."
Predictions: Lawro v Dermot O'Leary
Failing to achieve a top-four finish would mean some tough decisions needing to be taken. The board would have to decide whether to stick with Van Gaal (I'm sure they would), whether to sanction another expensive transfer window of investment (again, I think they would), and whether to take up the option on Radamel Falcao, who played for the under-21 team on Tuesday (decision surely already taken - a resounding no).
This worst case scenario might see David De Gea looking to leave, and maybe even Wayne Rooney might start wondering about his Old Trafford future again?
United looked distinctly average on Monday night against Arsenal, and the unavoidable realisation that there really isn't anything special about such an expensively assembled squad must be hard to bear for those watching from the Stretford End, and for those watching from the Glazier family sofa.
Tottenham deserve credit for how they've recovered from the disappointment of losing in the Europa League and the League Cup final. Back-to-back league wins have kept the pressure on Arsenal, United and Liverpool above them and Southampton just below. It's still very much a five-way chase for two places behind Chelsea and Manchester City.
Harry Kane helped himself to two more goals on Saturday, taking him to 26 for the season, level with Gareth Bale's total in 2012-13. That's more than Keane, Defoe, Berbatov or Sheringham ever scored in one Tottenham campaign.
Indeed, the last two Tottenham players to score more in a season were Jurgen Klinsmann and Gary Lineker - an indication of just what a storming season Kane is having.
Should Spurs win at Old Trafford, and they won their last two visits, Pochettino's team would have some serious momentum, and United would have still more serious problems.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Manchester United are winless in their last five matches against Spurs since a 3-1 away victory in March 2012. They had been unbeaten in the previous 22 league meetings.
Tottenham have won on each of their last two trips to Old Trafford - they have never won three successive away games in this fixture.
Manchester United
Monday's FA Cup defeat by Arsenal was only their third defeat in all competitions under Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford (W12, D1).
United have won eight of their nine home league games, only dropping points in the defeat by Southampton.
Their tally of 34 points at home is bettered only by Chelsea, who have 35 points.
The Red Devils have scored 18 first-half goals at home - four more than any other club - while their overall total of 30 is the equal-highest league tally.
Wayne Rooney has scored seven goals in his last eight Premier League starts against Spurs.
Tottenham
Tottenham have taken 29 points from the last 39 available to them (W9, D2, L2). Only Arsenal with 31 points and Liverpool with 30 have won more over this period.
Spurs are only the third team in the Premier League to enjoy a five-game unbeaten run against United, following Liverpool (2000-2002) and Blackburn (2004-2006).
Spurs have scored in every away league game since their opening day 1-0 defeat at West Ham.
They have recovered 16 points from losing positions, more than any other Premier League team.
Harry Kane has scored in his last six away league games. Robin van Persie is the only player to have recorded a longer away scoring streak in Premier League history - nine successive games in 2010-11.
On Friday, Kane became the first player to win back-to-back Premier League Player of the Month Awards since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2006.
http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/31785852
TEAM NEWS
Manchester United will be without Angel Di Maria, who serves a one-game ban for his sending off against Arsenal, while Jonny Evans is also suspended.
Robin van Persie remains injured and Marcos Rojo is doubtful with a minor groin problem, but Ashley Young is fit despite hurting his leg on Monday.
Tottenham head coach Mauricio Pochettino has a fully-fit squad.
Danny Rose could be recalled at left-back at Ben Davies' expense, and Mousa Dembele is also pushing for a start.
MATCH PREVIEW
With matches against Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea looming large after the visit of Spurs, Manchester United are entering a period which will go a long way to deciding whether or not they'll miss out on the Champions League for a second season in succession.
Lawro's prediction
"I thought Arsenal outplayed Manchester United in their win at Old Trafford in the FA Cup on Monday, and a poor result like that was definitely coming for Louis van Gaal's side. United had been winning an awful lot of games without playing particularly well and eventually someone is always going to come along and show you up a little bit."
Predictions: Lawro v Dermot O'Leary
Failing to achieve a top-four finish would mean some tough decisions needing to be taken. The board would have to decide whether to stick with Van Gaal (I'm sure they would), whether to sanction another expensive transfer window of investment (again, I think they would), and whether to take up the option on Radamel Falcao, who played for the under-21 team on Tuesday (decision surely already taken - a resounding no).
This worst case scenario might see David De Gea looking to leave, and maybe even Wayne Rooney might start wondering about his Old Trafford future again?
United looked distinctly average on Monday night against Arsenal, and the unavoidable realisation that there really isn't anything special about such an expensively assembled squad must be hard to bear for those watching from the Stretford End, and for those watching from the Glazier family sofa.
Tottenham deserve credit for how they've recovered from the disappointment of losing in the Europa League and the League Cup final. Back-to-back league wins have kept the pressure on Arsenal, United and Liverpool above them and Southampton just below. It's still very much a five-way chase for two places behind Chelsea and Manchester City.
Harry Kane helped himself to two more goals on Saturday, taking him to 26 for the season, level with Gareth Bale's total in 2012-13. That's more than Keane, Defoe, Berbatov or Sheringham ever scored in one Tottenham campaign.
Indeed, the last two Tottenham players to score more in a season were Jurgen Klinsmann and Gary Lineker - an indication of just what a storming season Kane is having.
Should Spurs win at Old Trafford, and they won their last two visits, Pochettino's team would have some serious momentum, and United would have still more serious problems.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Manchester United are winless in their last five matches against Spurs since a 3-1 away victory in March 2012. They had been unbeaten in the previous 22 league meetings.
Tottenham have won on each of their last two trips to Old Trafford - they have never won three successive away games in this fixture.
Manchester United
Monday's FA Cup defeat by Arsenal was only their third defeat in all competitions under Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford (W12, D1).
United have won eight of their nine home league games, only dropping points in the defeat by Southampton.
Their tally of 34 points at home is bettered only by Chelsea, who have 35 points.
The Red Devils have scored 18 first-half goals at home - four more than any other club - while their overall total of 30 is the equal-highest league tally.
Wayne Rooney has scored seven goals in his last eight Premier League starts against Spurs.
Tottenham
Tottenham have taken 29 points from the last 39 available to them (W9, D2, L2). Only Arsenal with 31 points and Liverpool with 30 have won more over this period.
Spurs are only the third team in the Premier League to enjoy a five-game unbeaten run against United, following Liverpool (2000-2002) and Blackburn (2004-2006).
Spurs have scored in every away league game since their opening day 1-0 defeat at West Ham.
They have recovered 16 points from losing positions, more than any other Premier League team.
Harry Kane has scored in his last six away league games. Robin van Persie is the only player to have recorded a longer away scoring streak in Premier League history - nine successive games in 2010-11.
On Friday, Kane became the first player to win back-to-back Premier League Player of the Month Awards since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2006.
Real Madrid FINALLY back away from Man Utd stopper De Gea as club confirm loan deal
http://www.express.co.uk/sport/foot...Man-Utd-stopper-De-Gea-club-confirm-loan-deal
REAL MADRID will not bid for £50million-rated goalkeeper David de Gea this summer after River Plate confirmed a loan deal is in place for Argentine Augusto Batalla.
Madrid were chasing De Gea all January and reportedly had a big-money bid rejected by the Old Trafford club.
It was expected transfer negotiations would be reopened in July when Madrid have more time to structure an offer and United freedom to find a replacement.
But that deal now appears unlikely after River Plate president Rodolfo D'Onofrio confirmed his Argentina U-20s stopper Batalla will join Real on a one-year loan.
"The contract is still not signed," said Rodolfo D'Onofrio, "but in June Augusto Batalla will go to Real Madrid for a year, with the option to buy for a high price at the end of that year."
http://www.express.co.uk/sport/foot...Man-Utd-stopper-De-Gea-club-confirm-loan-deal
REAL MADRID will not bid for £50million-rated goalkeeper David de Gea this summer after River Plate confirmed a loan deal is in place for Argentine Augusto Batalla.
Madrid were chasing De Gea all January and reportedly had a big-money bid rejected by the Old Trafford club.
It was expected transfer negotiations would be reopened in July when Madrid have more time to structure an offer and United freedom to find a replacement.
But that deal now appears unlikely after River Plate president Rodolfo D'Onofrio confirmed his Argentina U-20s stopper Batalla will join Real on a one-year loan.
"The contract is still not signed," said Rodolfo D'Onofrio, "but in June Augusto Batalla will go to Real Madrid for a year, with the option to buy for a high price at the end of that year."
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