Mourinho: Zlatan Ibrahimovic could still play for Manchester United

Manchester United manager, Jose Mourinho has hinted that injured Swede
striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic could still play for the club again.

The 35 year old injured his knee ligament in April and his not
expected to play again until early 2018.
Having joined the club from PSG following the expiration of his
contract with the Paris club, he was already on 28 goals with a new
contract on the table after his form in front of goal triggered an
extension, but all that was put on hold following his long term
injury, the first of such injury in his glorious career.

Now Mourinho is saying he could be back with his side in six months
going by his comments as Manchester concluded their pre-season tour of
the United States.

"We spent big money on a striker because, with strikers, you either
spend or you don't get," the Portugese said.

"And we spent because of what happened to Zlatan and we can not allow
ourselves to be without an important, strong striker for the first six
months of the season."

Whether the club is considering a contract for the eccentric Swede
when he is fit in the New Year remains to be seen.

Meanwhile, he is currently using the club's facilities in Carrington
Training complex as he works his way back to fitness. Which means
Mourinho and the club's hierarchy can keep a close watch on his
recovery.

So far he has been linked to several clubs within and outside Europe.
But until he is back to full fitness, clubs are unlikely to take a
risk on him judging by his age.

Inter: Man United can have Perisic if offer is right

Manchester United have been on the trail of Inter Milan and Croatian
winger Ivan Perisic. The 28 year old has been the subject of several
bids that have been turned down by the Seria A club.

However, manager, Luciano Spalletti has claimed that the club would
listen to the right offers that is difficult to reject for the winger
who joined the two time European champions two years ago from
bundesliga side Wolfsburg.

"He's an important player in the team and we're counting on him to
start the new season," the former Roma manager said.

Then he opened the door on the possibility of a deal being done with
the rumours linking him away from the club and series of failed bid
from Man United.

"Sure, there were rumours, but the status quo is that we want to keep Perisic.

"Having said that, if someone comes in with a very difficult offer to
reject, then we'll consider that.

The sticking point for both sides is the fee. Inter are reported to
want close to £50m for the winger who has 17 goals from 70 appearances
in two seasons at the San Siro. While Manchester United are not
willing to go close to that figure.

With the start of new season getting close both clubs would be eager
to find a amicable settlement that they would be happy with, because
as Spalletti claimed the club still have to find an alternative for
Perisic if he leaves.

"But, of course, we'll need to find a valid alternative for Perisic as
well." he concluded

Lukaku aiming to create history at Old Trafford

New Manchester United striker, Romelu Lukaku is aiming to create his
own history at Old Trafford.

The 24 year old joined the club early this month, and he is already
looking forward to the new season after being part of the scorers in
the club's pre-season matches in the United States.

As the 20 time English champions prepare for their last pre-season
game against Barcelona before flying back to England, the Belgian is
relishing the opportunity of playing for one of the biggest club's in
world football.

"I'm Romelu Lukaku, I want to create my own history." he said

"I've been working to be a pro since I was 11 years old. I've always
had a goal to win as many trophies as I can and to play for a club
like Manchester United.

"I want to grab this opportunity."

He was just 18 year of age when he left his country of birth to play
in England with Chelsea. After loan spells at West Brom and Everton
before he was signed permanently by the Toffees and after nearly an
100 goals scored in that time, he would be looking to follow in the
footsteps of other strikers that wrote their names into the folklore
of the Theatre of Dreams.

Former Man United striker heading back to the Premier League

West Ham United are close to bring back former Manchester United
striker Javier Hernandez to the Premier League. The Londoners have
reached an agreement with German club Bayern Leverkusen in the region
of £16m.
He is due to fly in to London for his medicals.

The 29 year old Mexican striker known more for his nickname Chicharito
was a huge weapon in Alex Ferguson's armoury when he arrived from
Mexico in 2010. He ended up scoring 59 goals in 156 appearances for
United in his five years at the club with most of them coming as a
substitute. He was sold by Louis van Gaal in 2015 to Bayer Leverkusen
where he scored 39 times in 76 matches in all competitions.

A goal poacher known for his ability to pounce on loose balls within
the six yard box, he is currently the record holder of the highest
goals scored for the Mexican national team with 47 goals.

He is expected to add more bite to a West Ham forward line that
struggled for goals last season.

Lukaku joins Manchester United for a fee of £75m

Manchester United have signed Romelu Lukaku for a fee of £75m. The 24
year old arrives from Everton after three seasons at the Merseyside
club. The first of which was spent on loan.

Lukaku who scored 68 league goals has signed a five year contract at
Old Trafford with the option for a further sixth year.

Speaking on the Belgian's arrival, Jose Mourinho said.

"Romelu is a natural fit for Manchester United. He is a big
personality and a big player,"

"It is only natural that he wants to develop his career at the biggest club.

"He will be a great addition to the group. I am really looking forward
to working with him again."

Lukaku was also the subject of a separate bid from Chelsea. But it
came too late after Manchester United had agreed a fee with Everton.
He turned down a lucrative contract from Everton last season that
would have made him the club's highest paid player in it's history.
Claiming he didn't want to remain at the same level.

In his response to his signing, he said;

"I cannot wait to run out at Old Trafford in front of 75,000 fans."

He becomes Manchester United's second major signing of the summer
after the signing of Swede defender Victor Lindelof who arrived from
Benfica for a fee of £32m.

Jose Mourinho's side are currently in the United States for a 18 day
pre-season training.

Louis van Gaal Was A Dead Man Walking Before He Was Sacked

Manchester United announced the sacking of their manager on Monday.
The news of Louis van Gaal's departure had leaked minutes after the
club won their 12th FA Cup on Saturday. The media was awashed with
reports of Jose Mourinho's appointment as the club's replacement to
the Dutchman.

The former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager has been under
the spotlight all season going by various media reports. Leaving aside
the FA Cup triumph, he presided over a poor season by the club's high
standard.

Different words have been used to describe the Old Trafford club this
season, from boring to functional, the list is endless.

The club descended from their ethos of attacking football to a side
that was afraid to play anything resembling football.

That Manchester United only scored 49 goals in 38 league matches was a
reflection of the poor tactics deployed by the Dutchman.

He arrived Old Trafford with a reputation after he guided the
Netherlands to fourth place in the 2014 World Cup. However, after a
difficult start to his first season in charge, the club rallied round
to finish in the top four with key wins over Liverpool at Anfield and
a swashbuckling 4-1 win over city rivals Manchester City at Old
Trafford.
However, that is as good as it got for the club in his first season,
but finishing in the top four after the disaster of the David Moyes
era was regarded as a step forward for the club.

Yet, he was expected to have kicked on in his second season by making
the club title contenders, but instead they went backward after
topping the league in November. It was the high point of the first
half of the season as the team exited the Champions League at the
group stage after an error strewn 3-2 defeat to Wolfsburg in Germany.
There was little joy in the Europa League as they were eliminated by Liverpool.

The Dutchman's reputation was not enhanced by the way he prevented his
team to play exciting football with his obdurate tactics. That
Manchester United went eleven games at Old Trafford without scoring a
first half goal was as strange as it was a odd statistics in many
ways.

Indeed the way this season has gone for the club, Van Gaal was walking
a tight rope and his sacking has not come as a surprise, if anything
many within the Manchester United circle are glad to see the back of
the Dutchman.

However, despite the fact that he failed to deliver a top four finish
in his last season at the club, if winning a trophy is used to judge
his time at Old Trafford, he can point to the FA cup he delivered.
A win that was significant in many ways as it was the first trophy
since Alex Ferguson left the club, and the first FA cup the club has
won since 2004.

For all the high that greeted his arrival at the club two years ago,
Louis van Gaal leaves the club without a tear from anybody associated
with the club. A cruel way to leave an organisation, but to many a
necessary cutting of ties in order for Ed Woodward and co to usher in
a new era which will start with a certain Portuguese.

FA Cup Preview: Can Manchester United Savage A Poor Season?

Manchester United face Crystal Palace as overwhelming favourites for Saturday's FA Cup final at Wembley stadium. Louis van Gaal's side have endured a disappointing season that saw them finish in fifth place in the P league in what was a see-saw season for the Red Devils. It means Manchester United would have to do without Champions League football for the second time in three seasons.

However, despite what has been a season of upheaval at Old Trafford, Van Gaal can still end the season on a high with triumph at Wembley. Yet, few would put a full proof bet on Manchester United carrying the day if their inconsistent performances is anything to go by. Judging by the contrasting displays against West Ham United and Bournemouth in their last two Premier League matches of the season.
The significance of a win if it comes at Wembley would translate to the club's first major trophy post the Alex Ferguson era. And it would equal Arsenal's record of a 12th FA cup win.

For Crystal Palace, Alan Pardew once had a close shot at the FA cup when he was a player at Selhurts Park in the 1990s. He was in the Crystal Palace team that lost the FA cup to Manchester United in 1990. He has tried to replicate that story by fielding strong teams in the competition since he became manager of the club, and a triumph at Wembley would be a fitting finish for the Englishman.

For either side, there are players that could be instrumental to how the match would go on the day, 
Marcus Rashford who was on target against Bournemouth on Tuesday should be a key player upfront for Manchester United if he starts. The 18 year old has been a revelation since he made his senior debut in February. While Anthony Martial is another player that could turn a match on it head. The 20 year old is the club's highest goal scorer with 17 goals in his first season.
It is hard to look beyond these two players as the key to Manchester United's play on the day. Although Wayne Rooney could have a thing or two to say about that.

On the other hand, Crystal Palace have Yannick Bolasie, Connor Wickham, Bakary Kone, and Wilfred Zaha to call on. With their speed on the wings, Van Gaal's full backs would have to be on their toes on Saturday. Although, Crystal Palace would be without Welsh midfielder Joe Ledley who suffered a broken leg last weekend.

Kick off for the match is 5:30pm UK Time 

EPL Review: Strange Season Ends Strangely

The English Premier League ended on Sunday with few things still left to be resolved going into the last day. Second place was up for brags for Arsenal if Spurs slipped up, while Manchester United had an outside chance of finishing fourth place if result went their way.
Leicester City had been crowned champions in what was a strange season. And happenings on the final day of the season meant the season did not just end without some strange things happening.

The Old Trafford Fathom Incendiary Device

In what was a first in the Premier League era, a league match on the last day of the season was postponed because of the discovery of a device that looked like a improvised explosive. Fans were already in the stadium when stewards discovered the device. This led to the ground be emptied before kick-off, after which the match was postponed. The device that led to the postponement of the match turned out to be a fathom device left behind by a security firm who had a drill a day earlier at the stadium. But the embarassment, logistical problem and tension it brought on the day caused alot of distress for not just the fans, but the players.
As it turned out, it was nothing serious on the day. The match has now been rescheduled for this Tuesday.

The highest place Manchester United can now finish is fifth place. This is after city rivals Manchester City secured the draw they needed against Swansea to finish in fourth place. Although, Louis van Gaal's side would have to secure victory against Bournemouth to display Southampton from fifth place. A Europa League is place is where both sides will end up.

Arsenal Celebrate Unlikely Second Place

Arsenal went into the last round of matches needing result at St James Park to go their way for them to finish second for the first time since 2005. Few expected that Newcastle United would beat Tottenham Hotspur. Arsene Wenger's side did their bit by beating relegated Aston Villa 4-0 with Oliver Giroud getting a hat-trick. But then came the surprise result over from St. James Park where the Mapgies defeated Spurs 5-1 with three of the goals coming after they had gone down to 10 players following a sending off.

That result meant Arsenal have finished over their North London rivals for 21st straight season, and since Arsene Wenger became manager of Arsenal in 1996. Tottenham Hotspur have not finished above the red side of North London.

Claudio Ranieri Returned To Stamford Bridge As A King

Claudio Ranieri was sacked in 2004 a year after Roman Abramovich became the owner of Chelsea. The Italian led Chelsea to second place behind Arsenal that season, but was replaced by Jose Mourinho. The very likeable Ranieri left Stamford Bridge twelve years ago with his head down. But it was the man that sacked him more than a decade ago that personally welcomed him back to the Bridge with an handshake in recognition of what he has achieved this season with Leicester City.

The accolade did not end there, Leicester City were given a guard of honour by the Chelsea players. And the crowd chanted the name of the Italian.
It was fitting that Chelsea's draw against Tottenham handed the title to Leicester City, and there was mutual respect for what both Claudio Ranieri and his players had achieved this season at Stamford Bridge.

Key stats from the season

Leicester City--------81
Arsenal---------------71
Spurs-----------------70
Man City------------66

Highest Goal Scorers

Harry Kane (Spurs)--25 goals
Jamie Vardy (Leicester)--24goals
Sergio Aguero (Man City)--24goals

Most Clean sheets

Petr Cech--16 clean sheets
David de Gea--15 clean sheets*

*Still have a match to play.

Most Assist

Mesut Ozil--19 assists

Relegated

Newcastle United
Norwich City
Aston Villa

Manchester United On The Precipices

Marcus Rashford

The crowd at Old Trafford on Sunday found themselves in a reverse situation in which they were the underdogs facing a Leicester City side that is close to being crowned champions for the first time. During the Alex Ferguson era, it was Manchester United in the enviable position of looking to wrap up the title with few matches left of the season. But times have changed at Old Trafford, the relics of the past still stares at those that are affiliated to the club, because of the lack of success that has plagued the club since the famous Scot retired as manager in 2013.

The 1-1 draw against Leicester City on Sunday means with three matches left, Manchester United are in serious danger of missing out of the Champions League for the second time in three seasons. They only returned this season, although it was short lived by a group stage exit. The Red Devils lie four points behind Manchester City who are fourth on 64points, and a further seven points behind third placed Arsenal on 67points. While Manchester United are fifth, it is not a comfortable position as West Ham are just a point back in sixth place on 59points. Slaven Bilic's side have been hovering round that position all season as they push for a place in Europe. Both West Ham and Manchester United will play each other in one of the outstanding matches. Its a tie that will go a long way in deciding who finishes in a higher position.

Louis van Gaal's Manchester United are in the FA cup final, where they will play Crystal Palace later this month. However, a first major trophy for the club in three seasons without a top four finish might not be enough to save Van Gaal his job in what would be the final year of his contract.
The Dutchman said on the eve of the match against Leicester City that he expects to remain manager next season. It was the first time he has publicly claim he would be around next season. According to him, if the media is to be believed this season, he has already being sacked six times. Yet, he is still Manchester United's manager. Yet that decision on whether he would stay lies with Ed Woodward, the club's Executive Vice Chairman.

The former manager of Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich has been under serious pressure all season with reports linking the Dutchman away from Old Trafford with Jose Mourinho tipped as his replacement.

One of the things, the Dutchman was brought in to do was to make Manchester United a regular top four side. He got this in his first season in charge.But, failure to finish in the top four top this season might be the final nail on his coffin. And as it stands, a top four finish looks unlikely with three matches left to play.

Ultimately, if this season ends up as the last for the Dutchman, his legacy will be judged by what has been his trademark in most of the club he has managed which is his propensity to give youth a chance. Through him a new star at Old Trafford was born this season in the person of Marcus Rashford. He has used a plethora of young players this season from the club's academy. Whether this would be part of the next manager's plans remains to be seen.

For now, Manchester United lies on a precipice, yet, a disappointing season could still end up with a 12th FA cup win.

Martial Sends Manchester United to FA Cup Final

FA Cup Semi Finals
Wembley Stadium

Everton 1
Manchester United 2

Anthony Martial scored a last gasp winner for Manchester United to
send Louis van Gaal's side to the club's first FA Cup final since
2007.

The match had swung one direction in the first half when Marcus
Rashford and Martial combined to set up Maroune Felliani to open the
scoring in the 34th minute to set the Red devils on their way.

Despite looking largely subdued, Everton still created some succession
of chances which Romelu Lukaku failed to convert.

The Belgian international had a perfect chance from the spot in the
57th to pull Everton level after Tosu Mensah brought down Ross
Barkley, his penalty kick was saved by David de Gea who guessed the
right way.

Despite the miss, Everton were still in the ascendency as they
eventually got the equaliser 15 minutes from time as Chris Smalling
diverted Deflueoso's cross into his own net.

There was a lull in the game after the equaliser, as neither side
really went close to a winner, until the late intervention from
Anthony Martial who scored the winner when the match was destined for
extra time.

The win is another boost for Louis van Gaal's Manchester United as
they bid to win the first major trophy of the post Ferguson era. They
will now be overwhelming favourite to the win the cup for a joint
record 12th time with Arsenal.

The other semi final holds Sunday between London sides Crystal Palace
and Watford.

For Everton manager, Roberto Martinez, this could have been a last
attempt to savage what has been a hugely disappointing season for the
club. With huge pressure coming from fans of the club, and the change
of ownership of the Everton, he could well be overseeing his last few
weeks as manager of the Merseyside club.

EPL Round Up: Manchester United Close Gap On 4th Spot, Liverpool Continues Winning Streak

Manchester United moved within a point of the Champions League places after a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace in a scheduled match played on Wednesday night at Old Trafford. The first goal came through an own goal from Delaney in the first half, while right back Damien put the finishing touches on the tie with the second goal. Louis van Gaal's side are now just a point behind Arsenal in fourth place, and just two points behind Manchester City who are third. However, Arsenal can extend their lead over the Old Trafford outfit to four points if they beat West Brom on Thursday.

In the Merseyside derby at Anfield, goals from Divock Origi, Daniel Sturridge, Sakho and Coutinho sealed a 4-0 win over Everton for Jurgen Klopp's side. The Reds have continued their late season resurgence as they look to finish the season in a flourish especially with the Europa League semi finals against Villarreal coming up next week. They are now on 54points, just six points from fourth place.

In the last match of the night, West Ham overcame Watford 3-1 in a London derby played at Upton Park.

Manchester United Book Passage To FA Semi Final

                                                       

Marcus Rashford celebrates his goal against West Ham, photo credit: AP

Manchester United booked a semi final date with Everton later this month at Wembley after a 2-1 win over West Ham United in a FA Cup quarter final replay at Upton Park. Teenage striker and rising sensation Marcus Rashford opening the scoring with a beautiful curling effort into the bottom corner in 54th minute, then Maroune Fellani put more gloss on the scoreline with another in the 67th minute. James Tomkins pulled a goal back in the 79th minute to give hope for a late fight back for Bilic's side. But there was nothing of such as the last ever FA cup to be played at Upton Park ended in defeat for West Ham. West Ham would be moving to the Olympic Stadium at the start of next season.

Marcus Rashford curls in the first goal on the night, photo credit: Guardian UK

The tone of the match was set at the weekend after Manchester United lost 3-0 to Tottenham Hotspur in a league match at White Hart Lane. A match they conceded three goals in six second half minutes. Phil Jones and Micheal Carrick had emphasised the importance of Wednesday's match after an inconsistent season that has left Louis van Gaal consistently under immense pressure. With the FA Cup the last hope to secure a first silverware in three seasons, the win over West Ham puts Manchester United on a pedestal to end the season on a high after what has been another disappointing campaign once again.

For West Ham United, they started the match as favourite and the 3-3 draw against Arsenal last weekend where Andy Carroll got a hat-trick was a boost ahead of the match, but the England international was largely subdued on the night.

However, the same cannot be said of Marcus Rashford who got his sixth goal in eleven matches. the 18 year's old stock continues to rise, and he has been one of the bright spots of an otherwise poor season for Manchester United.

The Old Trafford Club now look to a date at Wembley later this month.

EPL Preview: Arsenal's Britannia Hoodoo, Alex Ferguson As John Lennon of Football & More

The English Premier League enters week 22 this weekend as league
leaders Arsenal visit Britannia to play Stoke City, while no longer
surprised package Leicester City going to Villa Park to play
relegation folders Aston Villa. The pick of the bunch is Manchester
United's visit to Anfield as guess of Liverpool. Manchester City are
at home to Crystal Palace. While Chelsea entertain Everton at Stamford
Bridge.

Stoke City v. Arsenal
Sunday
Britannia Stadium

Arsene Wenger's Arsenal have only won just one of its league matches
at the Britannia in seven visits to the Stadium, and that victory
cames in February, 2010. The Stoke City side of previous years under
former manager Tony Pulis where very physical and direct in their
approach, a combination that repeatedly troubled Arsenal. However, the
coming of Mark Hughes and the signing of flair players has given Stoke
another attacking dimension.
They have beaten Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea this
season at home scoring five goals without conceding any.
A win for them will see them beat all of last season's top four clubs.

Arsenal on the other hand come into the match on the heels of the
pulsating 3-3 draw with Liverpool on Wednesday. Wenger would hope that
his team does not stumble once again in the hostile atmosphere of the
Britannia.

Liverpool v. Manchester United
Sunday
Anfield

Jurgen Klopp described former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson
as the John Lennon of football at his press conference on Friday. It
was obvious that he holds the Scotsman in high esteem. Yet the
Manchester United side of Ferguson is a far cry from that of today. As
Louis van Gaal's present Man United side has repeatedly been
criticised for the lack of excitement in their approach to the game.
But the 3-3 draw against Newcastle United on Tuesday had enough
entertainment, but it still did not fetch Man United the needed three
points. The Dutchman would settle for less exciting football, but with
the maximum three points.
Its a North-West rivalry in English football, and it should be intense.

Chelsea v. Everton
Saturday
Stamford Bridge

Guus Hiddink was not pulling punches when he said that Chelsea were
still in a relegation battle and that relegation was a still a
possibility. The blues are currently six points from the relegation
places going into this match, but were one point off it when Hiddink
took over.
However, despite their recent improvement which has culminated in an
unbeaten run, they are still to win back-to-back League matches this
season after West Brom held them to a 2-2 draw on Wednesday.

Their opponents on Saturday Everton arrive on a high after they shot
out Manchester City from scoring at the Etihad. Tim Howard was
Everton's best player on Wednesday. Roberto Martinez will be hoping
that the talk would be about his attacking players this time around.

Van Gaal gradually erasing Ferguson’s relics

With Rafael da Silva the latest Manchester United player to leave for pastures new following his move to ligue un side Lyon, his departure continues a theme of a high turnover of players signed during the Ferguson era who have left the club in the last 18 months.

This summer alone, Nani and Robin van Persie have since left for Turkish side Fernerbache. Last season, Danny Welbeck left Old Trafford for the Emirates. Darren Fletcher joined West Brom in January, Patrice Evra left for Juventus last summer, Javier Hernandez was sent out on loan last season; the injury he suffered few months ago means no club has come to sign him permanently.

Louis van Gaal has been ruthless since he assumed the manager’s position at Old Trafford. The way he dealt with the Robin van Persie was a case in point. He stated during the club’s pre-season tour of the United States that he told his fellow Dutch national during a golf game that he was not part of his plans. Little wonder the former Feyenoord striker is now out of Old Trafford.

In spite of the fact that some players that were key furniture of the Ferguson era have now left the building because they are clearly not rated by Van Gaal, some other important players signed by the Scotsman still remain part of the manager’s plans, Wayne Rooney, Ashley Young and Micheal Carrick remains key components of the Dutchman’s team. The latter was offered a one year extension of his contract before last season ended after the existing one was due to run out this summer, while there are reports that Ashley Young is on the verge of signing a new contract.

Other players that Alex Ferguson signed that still remain part of Van Gaal’s plans are Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Antonio Valencia. The fact that the latter featured prominently last season came as something of a surprise to many, but with the signing of Italian right back Matteo Darmian he might suffer from limited game time this season.

Two other signings of the Scots era whose futures still remain up the air by contrasting fortunes are David de Gea and Jonny Evans. For De Gea, the club wants to keep him, but with one year left on his contract, and the fact that the lure of Real Madrid still lurks around, it is one that is expected to run between now and the end of the transfer window.

Jonny Evans’ case is different with unconfirmed reports that the club is open to sell him. He was reported to have been close to a move to Everton last month, but Roberto Martinez dismissed it as untrue.

As Louis van Gaal continuous to build his own team with several signings this summer, the departure of Angel di Maria will leave a measure of disappointment for the Dutchman, for his inability to get the best out of the Argentine winger, who is now expected to sign for Paris Saint Germain after just a season at Manchester United. With Barcelona winger, Pedro expected to arrive at Old Trafford, it could mitigate for the departure of Di Maria.

The temperament of United’s manager is clearly different from that of Alex Ferguson, he has shown that he has little patience to keep players who does not fit into his plans, irrespective of whether there is a chance that they could improve or not.

Though the Ferguson era is now history, that he was able to get the best out of players like Rafael da Silva, showed the Scots qualities. Since his departure, the young Brazilian who spent eight years at Old Trafford was not the same right back he was under Ferguson. Although there was some measure of technical ability lacking in most Ferguson’s teams, however, what they lacked in technical ability, they more than made up for it with a combined will to win all the time. Something the Scotsman instilled in his players during his time as manager.

With the relics of the Ferguson era gradually giving way in terms of signings as more technically gifted players are now being brought in, it remains to be seen whether the new signings would bring the same level of success the signings made by Ferguson brought to the club.

With more players of the Ferguson era expected to leave, the question of how the Scotsman was able to get players who many agreed where not the best technically, but performed consistently would continue to remain unanswered particularly as other managers have not been able to get the same level of performance out of the same players.

Di Maria: An Angel on Paris Wings

                                                          

                                                             

Argentine winger Angel di Maria is on the brink of joining French champions Paris Saint Germain just one year after a record British record transfer of 59.7 million pounds saw him move from Los blancos to Manchester United. The former Real Madrid winger is expected to move to the French capital for a fee of around 45 million pounds. This means that the Old Trafford outfit is ready to suffer a loss in his sale.

There have been reports that he is unsettled in Manchester and wants a move.

However, could the move holds much to the ruthlessness of Louis van Gaal who might feel that he does not have the mentality to play for the club after he suffered a loss of form.  Yet the Argentine showed his true form in his first three months in England before his struggles began.

However, for a player with his ability, one season is certainly very short to judge what he could have offered the club. The 27 year old did not set la liga alight in his first season when he first arrived from Benfica to join Real Madrid, but he later settled in to be a key component of the Real Madrid squad, including being a catalyst in Madrid winning la decimal in 2014.

Following the fact he did not feature much for Manchester United in the second half of last season, it is difficult to conclude whether his departure weakens the Mancunians or not.

Louis van Gaal has shown little patience in dispatching players he apparently feels no longer fit what he requires. Robin van Persie has since left with Nani to Fernerbache and some others could follow before the transfer window closes. Javier Hernandez should have been sold by now if not for his collarbone injury.

In all, it is the departure of Angel di Maria that would raise several questions.

He has not become suddenly bad overnight. Despite ending his first and likely only season in England in an underwhelming manner. He still was one of the bright spots in the Argentine squad in the Copa America.

So what could have gone wrong?

In football circles, even world class players need to feel wanted and loved by their manager and club for them to produce their best performance. The man-management skill of Louis van Gaal has to be questioned here. The Dutchman’s brutish style does not fit most of his players. The former Ajax stalwart is always quick to criticize and attack his players publicly and his bluntness sometimes makes him sound more like a football pundit rather than a manager handling players.

Although, he remains one of the most successful managers in European club football, his brusque manner could really unsettle players with a mental fragility which could have a negative effect on their form. All football players are first humans before being a player even with their huge wages. And anything outside football could affect their form.

Angel di Maria arrived in a new country without pre-season, a long and draining world cup campaign, without a winter break and with having to learn a new language in order to communicate properly, so it was bound to be difficult in his first season even if he had a good start initially.

The nature of Manchester weather can also not be thrown at the winger because just across town at the Etihad, fellow Argentines Sergio Aguero, Pablo Zabaleta and Martin Demichelis have been in Manchester for a couple of years, which means with more time, he could have been more at home to find his best form at Old Trafford.

With the right management skills, Manchester United could have gotten more from Di Maria. Now that he is on his way to PSG, it is the Parisians who would enjoy his peak years. And settling down in Paris should not be much of a problem with several South America players from Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay in the squad.

In the end, only time would tell whether it was the right decision for the Theatre of Dreams outfit to dispatch him after just one season.

Photo Credit: Dailymail.co.uk

David Moyes' unusual records

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The much heralded arrival of Juan Mata failed to inspire Manchester United as they fell to their eight defeat of the season. Although the only goal from Robin Van Persie was from Mata’s assist, making it two assist in two matches for the mercurial Spaniard. The defeat at the Britannia Stadium was Stoke City’s first win over Manchester United in 30 years. The last time Stoke City defeated Manchester United was in 1984.

David Moyes early reign as the Old Trafford club’s manager has seen some hitherto impressive record broken. Before now Swansea City had not beaten Manchester United at Old Trafford before. But that was settled when the Swans defeated Moyes’ side in the FA Cup early last month when Wilfred Bony won the match with a textbook header to knock out Man United in the 3^rd round stage.

That feat achieved by Swansea at Old Trafford has been replicated by Everton, West Brom and Newcastle respectively. As these clubs before this season have not won at the Theatre of Dreams when added together for almost a century.

So David Moyes has lost a third of his 24 league matches as manager. And he has just 40 points after 24 matches when compared to 41 he had for Everton at the same stage last season.

With fourteen matches left in the league, Manchester United could find themselves 9 points of fourth place if Liverpool beats West Brom on Sunday. With matches against Arsenal, the Manchester derby, Liverpool and Everton to come, every match begins to take an added significance as the battle for a top four finish hots up.

It an unusual territory for Manchester United to be in, but the mentality judging from their past antecedent is that they can always pull a magic out of the hat as the battle becomes fierce.   

Manchester United's Zaha joins Cardiff

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Wilfred Zaha has joined Cardiff City on loan until the end of the season. The former Crystal Palace youth product who was Alex Ferguson's last signing as manager has been a  periphery figure at Old Trafford this season. He is expected to add some verve to Cardiff City's fight to avoid relegation from the top flight.
The 21 year old Zaha has been linked to several clubs this window. However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's arrival as Cardiff manager seem to turn the tide in favour of Cardiff because of his ties to Manchester United.

Can Mata solve Manchester United's matter?

The deal that took Juan Mata to Manchester United was finally
confirmed by the club on Sunday. The amount was 37.1 million pounds.
Much have made by the transfer especially in the light of the saying
that a tree does not make a forest. None does the purchase covers the
ineptitude of Manchester United's transfer activities in the summer
where they lost out on several targets including Thiago Alcantara who
settled for Bayern Munich because of the swaying of Pep Guardiola. And
buying Mauroune Fellani higher than the price in his release clause
after that expired.

Yet, the question now is can Mata revive the dwindling fortunes of the
Theatre of Dreams?
First, he has just 16 games to play before the season ends which is in
the league as, Man United are out of the FA Cup and Capital One cup.
And he is ineligible for the Champions league as he featured for
Chelsea earlier in the season.
Then there is the issue of fitting him into the present United lineup.
Presently Wayne Rooney currently feature in the role Mata is most
effective in. The 'No 10 role' behind the striker. And Kagawa can also
play same role, but he has largely been ineffective this season when
featured there. The young kid on the block Adnaj Januzaj plays there
too. Or will Mata settle for a place on the wings?

There is a likelihood that David Moyes will settle for a front three
of Robin Van Persie, Wayne Rooney and Juan Mata with the latter
playing behind the two strikers.
Then the balance of the midfield comes into play. Who plays in the
midfield and wings? Will Moyes stick to Kagawa, Ashley Young, Welbeck,
Januzaj on the wings?

Of concern to Moyes will be retaining some measure of defensive
balance in midfield as his team have been poor on that front so far
this season.
Which leaves key roles for the injured Micheal Carrick and even the
much maligned Mauroune Felliani. And Phil Jones who can also play
there.
There is no doubt that Mata's purchase can galvanize the players into
reviving the club's fortunes in the league. As he already knows the
league, and comes with a rich CV of copious assist and goals. Should
he hit the ground running, then many would be drooling about the
club's prospects in the coming months which will definitely lift the
pressure off David Moyes. As he has promised that the club will look
to bring in more players during the summer transfer window.

Juan Mata's open letter to Chelsea fans

Juan Mata relayed this letter to fans and staffs of Chelsea via his website which crashed after tons of traffic to it following his medicals at Manchester United.

Here is a transcript of the letter:

Hi everyone,
As you can imagine this is a very important day in my life, and with these lines I would like to express the memories and emotions that come to me as I write.
This letter is written from my heart, and first of all I would like to say that I will never forget all the affection given to me by the Chelsea fans. From the very first day until the last. With your support and affection I have grown up as a player and I have had an amazing time both on and off the pitch. I will always feel the gratitude towards you. Always.
No words are enough to give back all the things I have received. There has been plenty of good moments: the FA Cup, my first trophy as a Blue; the immense happiness of winning titles for the first time in the club’s history, such as that magical Champions League night in Munich and the Europa League… On the other hand, I have experienced some complicated situations from a personal point of view, mainly during the last six months.
Every message I got through the social media, every nice word you have said to me on the street, and of course, your support in the stadium, has made me feel incredibly proud of the Chelsea fans; you deserve a team like the one you’ve got, with so many fantastic players. I won’t forget the faith you put in me when I was given the player of the year award the last two seasons. I feel really proud and I will never forget those nights.
Thank you so much for the way you have treated me, you have been unbelievable.
I hope you understand that after going through a complicated and, for me, new situation in the last few months, I believe this is the best choice in order to carry on with my football career and to keep enjoying this sport. Before last summer, my intention was to stay here for a long time; as long as the club wanted me to, and to keep winning trophies for Chelsea FC. This is how happy I was in the club and in the city.
However, as you all know, things changed after the preseason. From feeling like an important player, I started to experience some difficult situations and I felt unable to help the team to the extent that I wanted and was used to. Obviously, I fully respect the circumstances.
Football is a team sport and it’s not easy to play regularly in such a good squad. In sports you may win or lose, but the most important thing is to give everything. I hope you know and feel that I have always done so. In every game, in every training session, without exception. I have always tried my best for the club.
I would like to emphasise the affection, admiration and respect that I’ve had for my former team mates since the first day. I want to thank the captains for their help and understanding at all times. They made me feel comfortable when I arrived and they have supported me throughout the difficult times this season. I thank all my former team mates for these two and a half years and I wish them the best, personally and professionally, for the future.
Of course I have been closer to some of them, but the most important thing is that my years in Chelsea have left me with great friends. Friends forever, football rivalries aside.
I also want to highlight the day-to-day job of every member of the Chelsea staff: medical team, kit men, staff at Cobham and Stamford Bridge, media and marketing department, Chelsea TV team… All of them are very important in making this club a great one. Thank you for your treatment and your efforts to make the life of the players easier.
Furthermore, thanks to every manager I have had the pleasure to work with during my time here. They have all been a big help for my progression as a player. I have always respected their decisions, whatever they were; they made me more mature and a stronger person. You learn from everything, and certain situations make you think about other team mates who are coping with similar situations more regularly.
Thank you Andre for giving me the opportunity to join Chelsea FC. Without your support, none of this would have happened. To Robbie and Rafa, for their unlimited trust in me. And to Jose, for making me a stronger player, because in difficult moments, I have learnt to remain positive and to keep working hard.
Lastly, I want to thank the Club, and in particular its owner, Roman Abramovich, for trusting me and making an important investment when signing me. Also for their understanding regarding my situation over the last months. I’m very glad to have been part of the squad that made his and our dream come true: winning the Champions League on that unforgettable night in Munich. Additionally, my years in Chelsea have been profitable for the club, which I’m very pleased about.
I want to make clear that the stage that now comes to an end has been extremely important for me, personally and professionally. Although many of you, like myself, never thought this moment would come, this is football and a new chapter is about to begin.
I would have liked to say good bye to all of you in the stadium, or in a press conference, but it has not been possible. I’m sure, i will be able to do it in the future, because is what you deserve. Evidently, today is a day of mixed feelings, remembering the past and looking forward to the future and what it has to bring.
I look forward to being happy and to enjoy what I like the most: play football. I will never forget my time in Chelsea and the affection I take with me, I will keep forever. I wish you the best. A big hug to all of you.
THANK YOU so much, Juan

Rooney targets 300,000 pounds a week deal in new contract talks

Manchester United have opened talks in respect of new contract with Wayne Rooney. The striker who has 18 months to run on his current contract which is  250, 000 pounds a week. At 28 years of age, any contract he signs will likely take him to the latter years of his career at Old Trafford. The English dailies are running with stories that his new deal should he come to an agreement will be 300,000 pounds a week. which will make him the club's best paid player.
The striker had a running battle with Alex Ferguson towards the end of last season after he was accused of putting in a transfer request by the now departed Sir Alex. An allegation he denied. That however did not stop Chelsea from putting in several bids for his services in the summer which Manchester United rejected.
He has however been a key figure in David Moyes side looking motivated anytime he is on the field. A complete contrast to his performance of last season. His form has seen him become Manchester United's fourth highest goal scorer. But he has been hampered by injuries this season, and has barely featured since the year began. He is expected back in the squad against Cardiff in the Premier League on Tuesday.