Manchester United's return to Champions League started on a positive note when they beat Basel 3-0 in Group A encounter. Fellaini, Lukaku and Rashford scored while Paul Pogba was injured and could be out for several weeks.
However, Jose Mourinho slammed his players' performances for much of the second half. He said,
Until 2-0 we were very stable, we played with confidence, with good choices. After 2-0 everything changed, we stopped playing seriously and stopped making right decisions. We could have put ourselves in trouble.We were playing fantasy football, Playstation football. I don’t like it, flicks and tricks.We gambled and you have to respect your opponent. I don’t know if goal difference will play a part. We lost position, our shape, we lost balls in easy situations. I didn’t like it, the players relaxed too much.
Sitting on top of the Premier League table and in their Group in the Champions League, the gaffer will be pleased. He did praise Ashley Young and Fellaini after tonight's win against FC Basel. Red Devils will face Everton at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Manchester United had a busy few months of recruitment this summer, both, in terms of players and scouts.
While all Red Devils fans know about the big name signings that Jose Mourinho brought to Old Trafford this summer, little has been said about the youngsters that joined United.
Here are 4 promising young talent to join Man United, and mind you, all have been signed by Mourinho; a manager who is often credited for buying star players and not promising youngsters.
1. Aliou Badara Traore: He's a France Under-16 international midfielder, who came through PSG’s academy.
2. Ethan Galbraith: This 16-year-old Northern Ireland midfielder is the captain of Northern Ireland's U17s and has already made his debut at U18 level for his country. He joins United from from Linfield Under-16s.
3. Arnau Puigmal: He's a 16-year-old Spanish central midfielder, who was a star of Espanyol’s Cadete A side and Red Devils expect big things from this youngster.
4. Largie Ramazani: He’s a 16-year-old Belgian forward who began his youth career in Anderlecht’s academy. United signed him from League One outfit Charlton Athletic.
Manchester United has resigned Zlatan Ibrahimovic on a one-year contract. The Swedish striker's spell with the Red Devils was curtailed by a serious knee injury which ended his season prematurely.
Ibra made 46 appearances and scored 28 goals for United during the 2016/17 campaign. After undergoing a successful surgery, the 35-year old underwent his rehabilitation and has now agreed to return to Old Trafford.
Jose Mourinho expressed his thoughts by saying,
We are delighted Zlatan is on the road to recovery and we are equally delighted to have his ambition and experience back with us. After his contribution last season he deserves our trust and we will be patient waiting for him to return. I have no doubt that he will be important in the second part of the season.
The big Swede will be wearing #10 shirt vacated by Wayne Rooney, after he allowed Romelu Lukaku to take #9 shirt that he wore last season.
Expressing his pleasure, Ibrahimovic said,
I am back to finish what I started. It was always mine and the club's intention for me to stay. I cannot wait to get back out on that Old Trafford pitch, but I also know that I have to take my time to make sure that I am ready. I have been working hard and will continue to do so to make sure I am in the best possible condition for my return to the pitch.
Manchester United beat Swansea City 4-0 in today's lunch time kick-off at the Liberty Stadium, recording back-to-back 4-0 wins.
Eric Bailly scored his first-ever Premier league goal in the first half.
The Swans collapsed in second half after late goal glut, with Romelu Lukaku, Paul Pogba and Anthony Martial scoring in a frantic six minute spell.
Last week, the Red Devils got off to a winning start in the opening Premier League fixture by beating West Ham. They have been tipped to win the league this season by many pundits because of the players they have bought in the summer, and of course, Jose Mourinho's record of always winning the title in his second season.
Today's game displayed United's desire and urgency to sharpen their claws and send a message to the rest of the league.
Manchester United have strengthened their squad this season to pose a serious title challenge. After spending more than £130 million to buy Victor Lindelöf, Lukaku and Matic this summer, the Red Devils are looking to sign two midfielders from Barcelona.
25-year-old Sergi Roberto, who has consistently been touted to join United is eyeing up a move away from the Nou Camp. There have been reports that United are ready to activate Roberto’s £36.5million release clause to make the Spanish international their fourth signing this summer.
Another player linked with Man United is 30-year-old Arda Turan. It has been reported that Jose Mourinho has held several meetings with the Turkish international ahead of a potential £24m move to Old Trafford.
After failing to land Ivan Perisic from Inter Milan, the gaffer has turned his attention to Arda Turan, whom he holds in high esteem for his tactical discipline, astuteness on the ball and tenacity.
After failing to land Ivan Perisic from Inter Milan, the gaffer has turned his attention to Arda Turan, whom he holds in high esteem for his tactical discipline, astuteness on the ball and tenacity.
Manchester United got their 2017-18 Premier League season off to a flying start by destroying West Ham 4-0.
Lukaku, Martial and Pogba were on target for the Red Devils as they demolished Hammers, who put up little resistance in their opening game.
United controlled the game from start to finish and were absolutely brilliant. There was so much energy, pace, optimism and desire to attack in this team, which I haven't seen in a long time.
While United did enjoy majority of possession, the one thing that irked me was their conversion of chances. United had 22 attempts on goal but only 6 were on target.
Not able to convert the chances has been a problem United struggled last season too. But with the players that Jose Mourinho has got this summer, I'm optimistic United will improve on that statistic and mount a serious challenge for the title.
Manchester United outplayed a young Ajax team to win the Europa League for the first time. Goals from Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan helped United beat the Dutch side 2-0 in the final at Friends Arena in Stockholm, Sweden.
By winning the UEFA Europa League 2017, United join Bayern Munich, Ajax, Chelsea and Juventus as the only side to win every European competition.
More importantly, Manchester United now earn their place directly to the group stage in next season’s Champions League with a commanding performance.
Glory Glory Man United.
Manchester United won the English League Cup 2017 by downing Southampton in a thrilling 3-2 victory at Wembley. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, once again displayed his class by scoring twice in the final.
Jose Mourinho delivered the first cup for United in his first season as manager. With his fourth League Cup triumph, he now joins Sir Alex Ferguson and Brian Clough as the most successful manager in the competition.
United were cruising with a 2-0 lead before Southampton striker Manolo Gabbiadini's brace either side of halftime breathed life into the showpiece match.
It looked like the match will head into extra-time, but Zlatan Ibrahimovic thumped a header in 87th minute to win the match for Manchester United.
Mourinho praised the big Swede by saying, ""He won the game for us. He was outstanding. He made the difference and he gave us the cup."
Congratulations to Man United. As a Red Devil fan, I hope 2017 gives us more chances to win trophies.
Glory Glory Man United!
Manchester United have appointed a full-time counter-terrorism manager, believed to be the first in the United Kingdom.
A former inspector from Greater Manchester Police's specialist search unit has been appointed full-time. The security at Old Trafford is under increased scrutiny since last few months, especially after a fake bomb was found in a toilet in May and two supporters were found to be hiding to watch Red Devils play against Arsenal.
Several fans have complained about the time it takes for searches at turnstiles and thus more security supervisors have been appointed.
It surely is a great move by Manchester United and emphasizes its commitment to ensure safety of its players and the fans during matchdays.
With the summer transfer window officially closed, several Premier League clubs have improved their squad, but I think Manchester United have done the best business in this window.
Replacing Van Gaal with Jose Mourinho, United brought in a top quality manager making their intentions clear that they are here to dominate the Premier League.
A big club like Manchester United needs big players who can win them games. And Jose has done exactly that with his summer signings. The Portuguese boss made four major signings as he promised, with Eric Bailly, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba.
A major boost for the Red Devils, that most analysts and pundits aren't talking about is, David de Gea has stayed at Old Trafford. Its definitely a big news and shows our power to not just buy big name players but to retain them as well.
With Manchester derby coming up next, and the squad that we have now, there's definitely a lot for Man United fans to be excited about.
Jose Mourinho has been appointed as the new Manchester United manager, leading the Red Devils from the 2016/17 season. He has signed a 3-year contract with an option to stay at Old Trafford until at least 2020.
Ed Woodward said: "José is quite simply the best manager in the game today. He has won trophies and inspired players in countries across Europe and, of course, he knows the Premier League very well, having won three titles here. I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome him to Manchester United. His track record of success is ideal to take the club forward."
José Mourinho said: "To become Manchester United manager is a special honour in the game. It is a club known and admired throughout the world. There is a mystique and a romance about it which no other club can match."
Matteo Darmian has joined Manchester United from Italian side Torino. The established Italy international joins on a four-year contract with the option to extend for a further year.
Reckoned to be one of Europe’s most dynamic full-backs, Matteo Darmian really caught the eye at the 2014 World Cup finals in Brazil. He's 25 and has made 146 appearances and scored 5 league goals for Torino since his debut in 2011; as well as representing Italy 13 times.
After joining Manchester United, Matteo Darmian said:
It is a dream come true to be joining Manchester United. I have loved the time that I have spent at Torino and I would like to thank the club and the fans for everything they have done for me. I am sure they can understand when the opportunity to join the biggest club in world came along it was something I had to do. To work with Louis van Gaal, a manager that has achieved so much in football is such an exciting prospect.
United boss, Louis van Gaal said:
Matteo is a right-sided full back with the versatility of also being able to play on the left. He is a strong defender and has the ability to go forward in the attacking positions which is a fantastic attribute to have and much needed in the fast rhythm of the Premier League. Matteo will be a great addition to the team. I am delighted to welcome Matteo to the club and look forward to working with him in the coming days.
Welcome to Manchester United, Matteo Darmian!
Memphis Depay has finally completed his dream move to Manchester United by signing a four-year contract, with an option for an extra year.
The Dutchman arrives from PSV Eindhoven and in his first interview after putting on the red shirt, Depay hailed Van Gaal the world's best boss. He said,
This is a dream come true for me; to play for the biggest club in the world and also to have the chance to work with someone who I believe is the best manager in the world, Louis van Gaal. I have great belief in my ability and I work hard to strive to achieve my dreams. I have been at PSV Eindhoven since I was 12 years old and I would like to thank them for everything. It was a great moment when we won the league and I was so happy to be part of that. This is now a new chapter in my life and one that I am looking forward to.
At the same time, United boss, Louis Van Gaal heaped praise on Memphis Depay, saying he has arrived at a huge club. He said,
I know Memphis well from our time working together in the Netherlands national team. He is a young versatile player who has the ability to play in a number of different positions. It will take time for Memphis to get used to the rhythm of the Premier League but I have no doubt that he has the potential to become a great footballer for this club and he is at the right club to continue the good work he has done so far.
Welcome to Manchester United, Mehmphis Depay!
Manchester United new signing Victor Valdes may be handed his debut by Louis van Gaal against Cambridge United on Friday in the FA Cup fourth-round tie at the Abbey Stadium.
Valdes, the former Barcelona goalkeeper signed an 18-month contract at Old Trafford this month and he has been used as a substitute since then.
The Spanish stopper has has not played competitive football since sustaining a cruciate knee ligament injury while playing for Barcelona against Celta Viga in March last year.
The Spanish stopper has has not played competitive football since sustaining a cruciate knee ligament injury while playing for Barcelona against Celta Viga in March last year.
After spending three months completing his rehabilitation at Old Trafford, the Red Devils offered him a contract.
LVG wants to get Valdes ready for the Premier League, should United's #1 David De Gea leave for Real Madrid. Plus, out-of-favour goalkeepers Anders Lindegaard and Ben Amos look set to leave United as well.
LVG wants to get Valdes ready for the Premier League, should United's #1 David De Gea leave for Real Madrid. Plus, out-of-favour goalkeepers Anders Lindegaard and Ben Amos look set to leave United as well.
Do you think Louis van Gaal will start Victor Valdes against Cambridge United? Tell me below!
Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez who made a massive impact in his debut season at Manchester United is no longer wanted by the club it seems. Reports also indicate, he will be sold at the end of the current season.
Fergie bought Chicharito from Chivas de Guadalajara in 2010 for £6m. He instantly became a favorite among Red Devils fans after scoring 20 goals in 45 games during his debut campaign. However, he has been unable to reproduce that form since the 2010-11 season.
Earlier this year, when Louis Van Gaal was appointed as the boss at United, he accessed the Mexican forward during pre-season and was not impressed with him. Having been overlooked by LVG at the start of this season, Chicharito was sent to Real Madrid on a season-long loan.
Although Real have an option to sign Hernandez at the end of his loan, I don't think Carlo Ancelotti will go it. Also, I don't think LVG will be interested in retaining a player who has been unable to score goals on a consistent basis.
I strongly think United won't let Hernandez to run down his contract and will be sold at the end of the current season.
What do you think? Will Javier Hernandez be sold in the summer? Tweet your thoughts: @ManUtdDugout
Manchester United's in-form goalkeeper David De Gea has revealed how he worked on his physique to cope with the demanding standards of the Premier League.
The Spaniard joined the Red Devils from Atletico Madrid aged 20 in 2011. Right from the beginning, he had a shaky start and committed a number of costly mistakes and was targeted at set-pieces during his first six months in England.
Sir Alex was very proactive in transforming De Gea's scrawny physique. He alloted the young goalie a gym programme that helped him increase in size and strength.
Admitting the effectiveness of that programme, De Gea said,
I was like Captain America in one year! No, I still do the programme, although not as much as before. It is more of a reduced programme now but certainly I did a lot of gym work at the start and it did have a big impact.
David De Gea was awarded Manchester United's Player of the Year award for 2013-14; becoming the first goalkeeper to win the award. Since then, his performances have improved immensely under Louis van Gaal and he has been one of the top performers for United besides Rooney and Carrick.
Manchester United is exploring the possibility of signing Seamus Coleman - the highly-rated Premier League defender who has given brilliant performances for Everton over the last couple of seasons.
United boss Louis Van Gaal is keen to strengthen his defence in the January transfer window and sees Coleman as the perfect candidate to fill his right-back/right wingback slot.
United's preferred player in that position - Rafael has struggled with injury this season. We've seen how LVG has been forced to play Antonio Valencia as a right wingback/right-back on several occasions this season. It is obvious we need strengthening in that position.
Seamus Coleman is rated £25m and he can play further forward in a 3-5-2 or in the 4-4-2. Coleman is electric and potent when he makes runs forward, while being steady enough at the back as well. Obviously, LVG considers Coleman a more reliable defender than Rafael.
United can sweeten the deal by allowing Januzaj to leave on loan to Everton who have reportedly shown an interest in the young United star.
Do you think Seamus Coleman to Manchester United can happen? Tell me below!
Manchester United are 10 points behind league leaders Chelsea but that has not impacted boss Louis van Gaal who has insisted that United’s goal is to claim the Premier League title and not a top-four finish that was set as a target for him before taking the United job.
Last week, United's run of six consecutive victories came to a halt when they were held to a draw by 10-men Aston Villa. Yet LVG believes he can win the championship in his opening season in charge.
He said:
The best achievement is champion because our goal is still to be champions at the end of the season – that’s also the best result. We are looking in a football world where number one is the most important thing. Our goal is to be first. But it’s not always so easy, you can see that. That’s why the board have said that our goal is within the first four places but still, with my players and all the staff, we are trying to achieve more than they expect from us.
United host Newcastle United today and will look to continue their winning run before travelling to White Hart Lane next week to face Tottenham.
At this point, I do believe United will be amongst the top-3 but winning the title is a tall order, given the injuries we've had. Do you think Man United can win the Premier League title? Tell me below!
So, Manchester United bagged the first away win of the season on Saturday with a hard-fought 2-1 win against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Who would be your starting eleven against The Tigers on Nov 29? Tweet your thoughts @ManUtdDugout
Who would have thought Louis van Gaal's Manchester United would beat Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium this season? With the current form and growing list of injuries, I bet, not many!
But United beat Arsenal on their turf to register their first away win of the season, which propelled them into the Premier League top-four. Many would say United were lucky to register a victory, but I think it was genius of LVG to change up the formation to 3-5-2 for this important game, and it got the right result.
A massive 3 points for Louis van Gaal but the Dutchman has emphasized their real test is whether they are able to maintain this winning momentum in their next two home games against Hull and Stoke City, both managed by former United stars Steve Bruce and Mark Hughes respectively.
Hull have lost their last three games against (seemingly) weaker teams. It's funny but they have spoiled the party for their hosts Liverpool and Arsenal by dening them all three points and I hope they don't continue this trend at Old Trafford.
Steve Bruce doesn't have a great record as a manager against United. Last night, they played a good home game against Spurs but failed to capitalize before losing the game in the last few minutes.
For United, Radamel Falcao is back in training and I hope to see him in action against Hull. I would also want LVG to play Ander Herrera who has been an unused substitute for the past four games. His creativity and guile will surely help United against Hull.
But United beat Arsenal on their turf to register their first away win of the season, which propelled them into the Premier League top-four. Many would say United were lucky to register a victory, but I think it was genius of LVG to change up the formation to 3-5-2 for this important game, and it got the right result.
A massive 3 points for Louis van Gaal but the Dutchman has emphasized their real test is whether they are able to maintain this winning momentum in their next two home games against Hull and Stoke City, both managed by former United stars Steve Bruce and Mark Hughes respectively.
Hull have lost their last three games against (seemingly) weaker teams. It's funny but they have spoiled the party for their hosts Liverpool and Arsenal by dening them all three points and I hope they don't continue this trend at Old Trafford.
Steve Bruce doesn't have a great record as a manager against United. Last night, they played a good home game against Spurs but failed to capitalize before losing the game in the last few minutes.
For United, Radamel Falcao is back in training and I hope to see him in action against Hull. I would also want LVG to play Ander Herrera who has been an unused substitute for the past four games. His creativity and guile will surely help United against Hull.
Who would be your starting eleven against The Tigers on Nov 29? Tweet your thoughts @ManUtdDugout
When Louis van Gaal bought Daley Blind to Manchester United this summer, many of us doubted about the role of the Dutchman. However, since the beginning of this new season, Blind has played crucial role in various positions, proving his versatility.
At Ajax, Blind played as a deep-lying midfielder while at United, he has played several roles, most recently, as a centre-back against Crystal Palace. The Dutchman himself admits that midfield is a good position for him because that is where he can help the team the most.
Showing his flexibility as a team player, Blind said, "Maybe my qualities are better for that position but, if the trainer needs me for the left full-back position, then I will play there. It is no problem for me."
When asked to describe his playing style, he said: "I think I am a player who keeps the ball and helps the rest of the team. I'm somebody who tries to play the easy pass instead of the difficult option, but it's also there [in this area of my game] that I have to improve myself. I always try to do my best and do what the coach asks of me."
Recently, Sir Alex Ferguson compared Daley Blind to a young Darren Fletcher and called him a "common sense player".
As a United fan, are you happy with the performances of Daley Blind so far? Post your comments below.
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