David Moyes : Testing times.

Yes, just another article about the most talked about man in the world of football : David Moyes, Manchester United's scapegoat. But I'm going to be a little different. Unlike most articles which are clear about their take on it, whether they are pro or anti Moyes, I'm going to try and look at it with a neutral point of view, without taking either side.

"Your job now, is to stand.......", ah screw it, no one cares what the old man who chewed gum said anymore right? Sir Alex Ferguson, our football god, decides to step down, marking one of the biggest changes in the history of Manchester United Football Club. The next question, who will replace him? Sir Alex uses his decades of experience and chooses a man he sees most fit to take this club forward, a man, who he knew, had never won a major title till date, a man, who he knew had not played in the Champions League till date, a man, who he yet felt could fill in his large shoes and continue United's legacy. My question to all those who worshipped Sir Alex and want Moyes out is, "Where's your loyalty towards the old man now?", "Where's that blind faith that you had in him all these years gone now?", "Why isn't that faith applicable to this decision of his as well?".

In comes David Moyes, with a controversial pre-season tour and transfer window behind him, wins the community shield and convincingly beats Swansea away, and the United faithful is happy again. And then, it starts. 7 months later, today, many want him out.

David Moyes has been dismal in many areas, on many occasions. His press conferences have been monotonous and uninspiring. His tactics have been proven wrong repeatedly. His substitutions have been pathetic. Overall, his 7 months at United have been a nightmare, for him, and fans alike. For the old and experienced Man United fans, this may not seem so bad, they've been there through bad times, and seen the club rise again. The younger generation however, isn't used to failure. Seeing United this low in the premier league table, is unacceptable. In this world of football, where managers aren't even given time to settle, where 'perform or perish' is the go-to motto, these fans have already lost their patience with the manager and are calling for his head.

Let's face it, it was never going to be an easy period of transition. Yet, it shouldn't have been this hard. Sir Alex Ferguson was the face of the club, not just the manager. He ran it the way he wanted to, there was no one who told him what to do. Comparing Moyes' situation to other new managers who have joined new clubs isn't right, because Moyes was filling in on another level. The players, the fans, the staff, the owners, the board, the club on a whole, had forgotten what it was to have Manchester United without Sir Alex. From managing Everton to managing United alone is a big step, to have to face all the other aspects of being Manchester United's manager is even bigger. And that is where Moyes has faulted. The argument can swing two ways now. One can say that he's been naive, not been able to take up the challenge, that's he's still in awe of the job and he isn't living upto it. Another can say that the job is so big, he needs time to settle in, and therefore the support.

Moving on to the on-field issues, our team is awful. It's an ordinary ageing squad which was made to look great by the great Sir Alex. Moyes isn't able to bring them to that level. But then again, would anyone else be able to? I don't think so. Vidic, Evra, Rio, Scholes, and Giggs are pretty much non existent this year, they played a major role for Fergie last year. Yes, a manager must bring out the best in his players. Yes, it doesn't seem like Moyes has the command over them like Fergie did. But it's an ageing squad, and Moyescannot be blamed for that. Yes, we look like we can barely score from open play. Yes, we lack creativity. But no CM was bought since Anderson many years ago, and Moyes cannot be blamed for that. The formations have been poor, usual 4-4-2 with pointless crosses continues without desired results, yes, Moyes can be blamed for that. Why we haven't shifted to a more central formation is beyond my imagination, especially after having signed Mata and with Kagawa on the bench. 

Another important factor this year has been 'luck'. Yes, absolutely nothing has gone right this season, right from the referee decisions, to the times we've hit the post, the times we've conceded by deflections, it's all been depressing and unlucky. Many fans have also said that Moyes has brought this bad luck to the club, which is absolutely baffling. However, the most important part is the injuries. And that is where our luck has been the worse. Rafael, Carrick, RVP and Rooney were our main men last year, all of them have been injured for long periods this season, rarely having played together. Phil Jones has been injured now and then, Smalling and Valencia have not been able to step in at RB in Rafael's absence, Evans, our best CB is injured since a while, Vidic Rio and Evra are history already, as mentioned. Carrick is a shade of his last season self, Fellaini has been injured for periods, no comments on Cleverley and the wingers. Persie and Rooney have been injured as well and missed many games. David Moyes cannot be blamed for this. (I personally do not believe the rumours about injuries in training)

I am not pro or anti David Moyes, I am pro Man United manager. I criticise him for his wrongdoings, but I shall support him as he's our boss. Just because we are used to success, and just because he cannot live up to to my expectation, isn't reason enough for him to be sacked in my opinion. Yes, you may name 5 managers now who you think will do a better job, but if they fail then what? Sack them after 7 months as well? Should we now change the Man United way and handle our bosses the way the rent club and noisy neighbours do? After having one manager for  27 years, is 7 months our new manager threshold? I'm not saying Moyes is the perfect man, I'm not saying he's doing a good job, all I'm saying is, the solution to our problems, may not be sacking the manager. Changes in tactics and players, with the same manager can do wonders as well. In my opinion, David Moyes should be given a chance to build his own Manchester United. Failing which, the board will have to take a call and replace him. But calling for his head 7 months into the job, may not be the wisest thing. He has his strengths, he's a thorough scout, identifies youngsters, gives them chances to become big at a young age, I hope he manages that with top youngsters at United and around the world along with a couple of world class signings. On one side, he looks clueless and dejected, ready to break down any minute, with no signs of improvement. On the other side, I'd give him my trust for another year at least, give him the money to build his own team and his own brand of football, I personally feel it is too soon to have him replaced and start a chain of managers.

I'm standing by my manager, the question is, are you?

          By- Manan Vora

Danny Welbeck - On the Rise!

Danny Welbeck seems to have finally answered his critics with his excellent performances this season, and he definitely seems a transformed player. Having scored just 2 goals all of last season, he now has 6 in the last 6 games, adding to his brace on the opening day of the season, making it 8 goals in the Premier League so far. Manchester United are struggling with injuries to Robin Van Persie and Wayne Rooney, and as we know from last season, and the start of this, we rely on these two for the major chunk of our goals. Danny's rise in form couldn't have come at a better time and I'm sure David Moyes is just as pleased as each one of us. 


Danny Welbeck is Manchester United through and through. He's a local lad, a massive fan, an integral part of the Manchester United system. He's come through the youth teams, and made his debut for United in 2008. He went on to win the 08-09 League Cup and 2008 FIFA Club World Cup before being sent on loan to Preston North End and later on to Sunderland. Since the 11-12 season, Danny Welbeck has been a regular figure in the Manchester United first team. He's found it really difficult to break into the first 11 on a constant basis because of the quality of strikers United have had over the years. Just when Danny must have sensed he'd be a regular feature from the 12-13 season, Fergie went ahead and bought the red hot Robin Van Persie who if fit, would undoubtedly feature in every game. 


David Moyes has stated that when he arrived he was informed of how important a role Danny Welbeck would be playing in United's future. Moyes understands the club, the way it functions, the way the youth players become top first team players, and it seems Moyes was determined to get Danny to play to his potential, and it's finally happening. Credit to David Moyes for that. Welbeck is a manager's delight- his stamina, work rate, ability to track back is spectacular, unlike strikers like Chicharito who won't be seen in our own half too many times. Players like Valencia and Welbeck give that extra defensive advantage, put pressure on the opposite team when they have possession, making it easier for the Manager to work his formations. 


It's because of his work rate that Danny has been given quite a lot of game time this season even if the top strikers have been playing. But he's been played on the wing, not his natural position at all. He had been lacking the finishing quality since a while, which was pretty evident in many instances when he should have ideally been slotting the ball home. The English media criticised him, fans questioned whether he was "United quality", but the Manager and coaching staff seem to have stood by him. I'm sure Danny was at Carrington trying to do his best to play as a winger and make a contribution to the team. His finishing and CF abilities may have taken a back seat resulting in his loss of form in that position. However, injuries have let him get back to his favourite and natural position, centre forward. He's taken his chances superbly and is in some sort of a run at the moment. It will be very interesting to see what David Moyes does with him once RVP and Roo are back into the first 11. Rooney behind Welbeck and RVP would be ideal in my opinion. Really hope Danny isn't pushed back to the wing, or the bench for that matter. 


Exciting times lie ahead for Manchester United, with youngsters like Januzaj and Welbeck making a big difference this season, and the likelihood of new signings coming in at least over the summer if not in January. Lets hope this isn't just a phase of brilliance for Danny Welbeck, but a transformation. Hope he manages to reach the 20 goal mark that David Moyes has set for him, and maybe even cross it. Lets hope when our strikers return from injury, Welbeck doesn't go back to his old self, but continues this hot streak with them. Hope is a term most United fans can associate with this season. It's the only thing we can do, as fans. So..

LETS. JUST. HOPE.

By- Manan Vora 

Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur : Match Preview

League Champions Manchester United entertain Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on New Years Day with both clubs hoping to close in on the top 4. Always an exciting fixture, this time it holds all the more importance due to both teams having surprisingly horrifying starts to the season. While United began a new era under David 'The Chosen One' Moyes, Tottenham continued with AVB and the post-Bale era.

Spurs- New recruits with promising talent, Levy had done his business well, and this side was expected to take the League by storm. Call it the Manager's lack of ability, or the squad requiring longer, the new team failed to produce results immediately as expected, disappointing fans and the board alike, eventually resulting in the sacking of Villas Boas. I personally feel he should have been given more time, what's the point of spending so much and not being able to build on it. But that's the way it goes now, patience doesn't exist, everyone wants quick results, or they're fired before they know it. In comes new boss and former midfielder, Tim Sherwood, having instant success in his game against Stoke. Tim has played 4-4-2 in all his games, it's the formation he prefers, so I expect him to stick with that at Old Trafford as well. Kyle Walker is available again having served a one match ban but Jermain Defoe, Andros Townsend, Younes Kaboul, and Jan Vertonghen are sidelines through injury.

My predicted 11: Lloris, Rose, Chiriches, Dawson, Walker, Eriksen, Dembele, Paulinho, Lennon, Adebayor, Soldado - 4-2-2!

United- 4 League wins on the trot, United have momentum. Finally seem to have overcome those early jitters, David Moyes seems to have found his best team. It took him a while, shuffling around, seeing who fits in his plans perfectly, but he seems to have done it. Injuries haven't helped it all. United's success last season was due to De Gea, Rafael, Carrick, Rooney, RVP. One or two of them have been injured throughout, replacements coming in have barely made an impact. Credit to Moyes for giving Rooney a new life, giving Januzaj his first life, transforming Cleverley, Young and Welbeck into totally different players. Hopefully a signing or two in January or the summer and the team looks good for the future. Wayne Rooney will be welcomed after missing out at Norwich (provided he's fit, rumours say he didn't train today), Van Persie is close to a comeback and hopefully will be on the bench. Antonio Valencia is available having served his one match ban, but Rafael, Nani, and Phil Jones are still out injured.

My predicted 11: De Gea, Evra, Evans, Vidic, Smalling, Januzaj, Carrick, Cleverley, Valencia, Rooney, Welbeck- 4-4-1-1.

Hope we carry the momentum forward and build the pressure on the teams above us in the league.

My prediction : United 2-1 Spurs.

Manan Vora

Ryan Giggs Special

Three of our writer are sharing their view on Ryan Giggs' 40th birthday and still playing in just one paragraph.
And here is our Ryan Giggs Special


Achal

RYAN GIGGS..! 

What can we say about him. Yesterday he turned 40 and the day before in the game against Bayer Luverkusen that assist for the Nani goal says it all, the quality, the hard work, the skill, his vision.... everything. The Welshman has everything a winger needed, he’s truly a total footballer committed to Manchester United since his childhood playing since last 23 years for only club. Its an honour to watch him play for Manchester United. I wish he would extend his contract at the end of this season.

Ivan

Fast, deadly, smart, loyal, complete.

We can find those rare things in modern football in Ryan Giggs. Almost unstoppable when he's on form. 22 years, he gives his soul for Man United, and almost 1000 battles he sailed with United. He has got everything with United, a perfect example for a complete player. Only two things that he didn't get the chance, the Ballon d'Or and World Cup - Age is just a number for him.

Adrian

Born in Wales, raised in Carrington, published in Old Trafford, running in the Premier League.

To be honest, i'm running out of words for him. He's just, oh my God! 22 years of playing football, in one club! Managed by only two managers, but has lifted so many titles...and counting! He was quick, he is smart. He isn't Moyes' first choice because of (yeah) his age, but he doesn't matter it. He wants to play, and he doesn't understand the word "Retire" as Sir Alex managed to understand it. We simply hope that our current youngsters and players, like Rooney and Januzaj, have the same loyalty as Giggs has got.

David Moyes : The Chosen One

The moment was always expected but the
post effects were never ever imagined. The fans of course cannot be blamed for the comparison made between the OLD ONE and THE CHOSEN ONE. Due to predictable human nature and also the fact that we cannot see someone else kissing the touchline, giving the scariest look to the fourth official, and a hope of doing something out of the world in the injury time, we somehow wanted to procrastinate the fact of life and certainly Manchester United without Sir Alex Ferguson but truth is truth and somehow we have to swallow the bitter pill.

Fergie had chosen the most correct time to make way for the new man. To get the trophy back
from the noisy neighbour after a heart breaking last day and last minute drama at the Etihad. The man has won everything, be it the trophies or be it the love, admiration, and respect of every one. So it was the most accurate time for transition, which every team goes through at some point of the time. Manchester United was Sir Alex Ferguson’s life and one thing was for sure that he would never ever handover the reign to anybody. After managing Manchester United for nearly three decades, it was proper decision made by the top hierarchy that Fergie will have the say in who will be the next Manchester United manager. There were many names in the fray to be the gaffer. The likes of Jose Mourinho, Jurgen Klopp, and David Moyes but keeping in mind the tradition and values of Manchester United it was David Moyes who was given the opportunity. Such was the power of Fergie that David Moyes was not even asked whether he would like to be the manager of Manchester United but instead he was ordered by Fergie that “You are the next Manchester United manager”.

The moment it was announced that David Moyes will be the next Manchester United manager, his life came under scrutiny. It was evident from the beginning that the task of managing Manchester United was never going to be a cake walk, the team which is synonym to winning and that too in a emphatic manner. To manage a team who competes with teams in the top half of the league table for a Europa league spot and managing a team whose mantra is to win, win, and win is entirely a different ball game.

Yes, the transition was all of a sudden and a pretty huge one. Not just Fergie but also David Gill stepping down from the chief executive post was a kind of set-back. This meant that all the things were to start from scratch. Life with a new manager, new support staff, and a new chief executive (Mr. Ed Woodward) who is a master in signing sponsorship deals rather than signing players was never going to be easy.

May be we can argue for the fact that David Moyes could have made the manager a bit early so that he had enough time to gauge the players at his disposal and then look out for some new ones in the transfer market according to his priority. However before that he had a tough task to handle, the Wayne Rooney saga. The relationship between Sir Alex Ferguson and Wayne Rooney had broke down completely although the recent interview gave by Fergie was some sort of a breather. David Moyes had to take each and every step carefully. He had to make Wayne Rooney believe that he is the Manchester United talisman and not a second fiddle to Robin Van Persie. There are many ones who hate Wayne Rooney’s attitude but it is a fact that a player of his mould is difficult to find and no doubt there were interest from elite clubs across Europe but the club which came very close in signing him was Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea however David Moyes had stated it categorically that Wayne Rooney is not for sale at any cost and it became a reality after Wazza’s stunning display against Chelsea which made the Old Trafford crowd rapturous. Not letting Wazza go was like a new signing for Manchester United and for David Moyes.

Although David Moyes is cut from the same cloth as Sir Alex Ferguson but he is certainly not the finished product. It is a slow work in progress which will eventually turn into a fine suit piece one day. We all know what David Moyes has achieved during his tenure at Everton, though not in terms of trophies but certainly in terms of respect and work ethic. To manage the club for a decade with limited resources and to remain probably in top seven or eight clubs is certainly an achievement but managing a top club is a very demanding job. David Moyes as of now doesn’t have that shrewdness or a cunning mind Fergie had which made him exposed during the transfer market. David Moyes was unable to land any marquee signing. The failure to sign Thiago Alcantara, Cesc Fabregas, and the list day drama of Ander Herrera revealed all the truth.  This was absolutely due to lack of experience on the part of David Moyes and also Ed Woodward. All we ended up was with Marouane Fellaini which I term it as a hasty signing in order to save the face.

The situation became from bad to worse for David Moyes during the start of the season. Loss to Liverpool, annihilation by the hands of Manchester City and a shambolic display against the like of West Bromwich Albion mounted further pressure on the new man.  All this lead to only one question, Is David Moyes the right man for the job?

The answer to that is actually simple. The new man needs time to understand his team, the capability of every player, the flaws, and the tactics to be developed. It cannot be done in few days or months. The transition might take a year or two and even more than that. Even Fergie took time to develop his team. It took years of determination and hard work for ALEX FERGUSON to become SIR ALEX FERGUSON. Nothing comes easy. What Fergie had was the like of Sir Bobby Charlton to support him through his tough time and what David Moyes wants is the support of the fans during the tough time. We do not believe in the concept of sacking manager but what we do believe is to get behind the team and the manager at every moment. As fans, our duty is not to question his appointment but to give unquestionable support to the new man in charge. Let him make mistakes which he is bound to make and I am sure he will learn from it. As Fergie said during the last speech that our job is to stand by the new manager and I surely will and I am sure fans who has Manchester United in their heart and blood will do the same. Let us support our new man in charge and things will surely turn good.

“Come on David Moyes, play like Fergie boys

We will go wild, wild, wild, we will go wild, wild, wild”

by Darshan

A Worst Start; The Positives

When i was writing this article recently, United have just beaten by WBA at Old Trafford for the first time in 35 years, as well as a second straight defeat this season. A week before, we've just got humiliated 4-1 by our noisy neighbor.

3 defeats in the Premier League this season, and only gained 2 victories, which is one of our worst starts in the history of Premier League. Manchester United, the champions of England, only on 12th in the league table, (even) Hull City in West Brom are above us.

There are many doubts and questions from the United fans: "What's wrong with United?" "Is Moyes deserve the job?" "Can we do something?"

But as a United fan, i'm still looking for the positive side of United games (most losing) this season:

1. Transition

Ya, whatever you agree or not, but you have to admit that the transition is not easy. After 26 years, finally we moved from the legendary figure of Sir Alex, to a new United, David Moyes. He's the choosen one.

Give him a chance, a chance.

I hate this quote, but this is the truth: "Your job now is to stand by our new manager" - Sir Alex Ferguson's last speech, May 2013.

2. The Return of our old hero, Rooney

You may be loved, you may also have hated this player. Yes, once in the news threatened that he wanted to leave United this summer after marginalized by van Persie last season, Wazza instead showed greatly improved performance. 

Until now, he has scored 5 goals and 4 assists just at the beginning of the season. And i'm sure there are many more that he'll give to United with his duet as well as his old rival, van Persie.

3. The Youngsters

Adnan Januzaj, Wilfried Zaha, Jesse Lingard. Maybe they are the top of United's youngsters, which is famous for the development of young players.

We can't deny that there are many players in the United squad who are aging, but i'm sure if the players like i've mentioned above was given the opportunity, it's possible that they'll replace their seniors.

And i thing, United should be careful in keeping our assets, from the other big European Clubs. 

(Oh yeah, one United's young players that i regret his departure is Paul Pogba - see how big is his role at Juventus right now)

4. Every team have their hard times

Every great teams had their hard times, even when they're on top.

Football is like a rolling tire - sometimes you're down, sometimes you're up.

5. If you look at the record, the beginning of this season isn't so bad!

We can only collect 8 points, grabbing 18 out of the total possible points after 6 matches.

In 2007/08, in fact we only won 7 of the total first 18 points we could get. 

But we can see:

17th Premier League title

3rd UCL trophy

Clear?

In my opinion, there's no reason for us, to lose our hope at the beginning of this season, its too early. Because there are times when we will be back up, that's for sure. United can't be dropped forever.

We'll bounce back.

"If you can't support when we lose, don't support us when we win"

by Ivan

My Dream, My Life, My Soul, My All – My Manchester United

How It Really Began

 

It was roughly 8 to 9 years ago, a lazy afternoon when I was in college and thoroughly enjoying my vacations. One day after my lunch, I was half asleep and was surfing TV channels (PS: At that point of time I did not even know how many players comprise a football team and CRICKET was a religion. I was no bloody different to it). Well when I got tired to look out for something interesting and was about to shut down my TV, there came a moment of brilliance which made my eye lid wide open.  I saw this guy having a typical Hollywood look scoring a screamer from the half way line, it was something out of the world to me and I am sure it would have been the same feeling for any ardent footie freak. He was none other than DAVID BECKHAM. For the next 48 hours I tried to know as much I can about him. Another goal of his which made me much more inclined towards him was his outrageous free kick against Greece in the stoppage time during the World Cup Qualifiers.  It was indeed the goal which shook the world. Journey from villain to hero. Before the free kick the commentator had just said “Beckham could just raise the roof at Old Trafford with a goal” and the rest is history. He belonged to none other than Manchester United; the club which I never knew would be of utmost importance to me. To be honest at the beginning, I never knew that a club named Manchester United ever existed on the planet. Gradually I started to follow MANCHESTER UNITED just because of David Beckham.

 

The Never Ending Journey

 

I feel so blessed and lucky enough that I ardently follow arguably one of the greatest clubs in the world if not the greatest (PS: According to some cunts). I don’t care what people have to say of my love to United. I agree there are many plastic supporters who just follow Manchester United because they have won so many titles but they don’t know what it takes to win those titles and it really pisses me. I never knew before supporting Manchester United that how many trophies they have won. I just support them because I have faith in my club. A true supporter really knows what it takes to keep the faith in your club and which I proudly say I really do. My faith in Manchester United really got cemented when I got to know about the Munich air disaster which destroyed the team of the future which was rightly called ‘Busby Babes’. Eight astounding players whose names could have easily been written in golden words in the history of the club as well as English football lost their lives. I am 100 per cent sure and I say this very categorically that any football club, be it the really best one could have lost all the hopes in the world and gone into a shell which would have taken them years to come out of it and Manchester United was no bloody exception. As we are rightly referred to “We are famous Manchester United, we do what we want” and indeed we did it. It was Jimmy Murphy whose vision did the impossible. He truly said “How we are in the future will be based on how we behave today”. He built a new team from nowhere and the rest we all know is history. This belief makes Manchester United different from other teams and I am sure no one EVER will have such kind of self belief. 

 

To further imbibe this BELIEF came none other than Sir Alex Ferguson, the man with a hardcore Scottish accent. I really don’t know what to talk about this legend. I am short of adjectives. The man had fire inside him and no wonder he has ingrained the same in the players he has managed so far. In today’s world if you don’t get along with your manager you can easily start the blame game but you just cannot do the same with Sir Alex Ferguson. If you do he will rip you apart. He is the real showman behind Manchester United’s success and it is just because of the belief he had in the club and in his players. How can anyone forget the 1999 Champions League final against Bayern Munich. Two goals in the injury time and we became the Champions of Europe. We did it which we always do. No wonder from then the injury time is called FERGIE time. The word BELIEF sounds really simple but to preach the same for about 27 odd years is really amazing and out of the world. Who the hell does not want to support the club with such legacy and such a fantastic manager. 

 

The Players 

 

There are numerous players who have played under his regime but I would certainly like to pick up certain players from the 1990’s and 2000’s who have played for the most romantic club in the world. The likes of Peter Schmeichel, Eric Cantona, Roy Keane, David Beckham, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Edwin Van Der Sar, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Ole Gunnar Solskjær, Dwight Yorke, Andy Cole,  Cristiano Ronaldo, and last but not the least my man Wayne Rooney. I would have loved to see the likes of Duncan Edwards, Sir Bobby Charlton, and George Best play live. There are number of high profile players who have played for the Red Devils but “No player is bigger than the club” this has been the core theme of Sir Alex Ferguson’s management. The manager has always demanded respect for the club. The club is placed at the top most priority and he makes sure that the dignity is always maintained no matter what. Several players have been the victim of Fergie’s wrath. The famous ‘Hair Dryer’ treatment which we know. Players like Roy Keane, David Beckham, Gabriel Heinze, Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Jaap Stam have all been shown the door by the great man. Every time when a great player had to leave Old Trafford people used to say NOW WHATT!!!!! and bloody every single time we have proved them wrong. Transformations have been an integral part of Manchester United’s history but it is the faith which has never derailed the process. Now tell me who does not want to support this beautiful club who always puts club ahead of its players. Who does not want to support this club who has never bowed down to failure. It is the sheer grit and perseverance that has made this club the most successful one in English history and one of the most successful clubs in the world. We believe in making players rather than buying players. The club teaches them never ever give up no matter what the situation is. I can so much co-relate that I personally have entrenched NEVER GIVE UP attitude. Failure is something which you cannot stay away from but how to convert the failures into success is what only Manchester United very well knows.

 

The Rivalries

 

Rivalries have always been a part of our history. The rivalry with Leeds United (a.k.a Roses Rivalry), Liverpool FC, Arsenal FC, Chelsea FC, and the latest one Manchester City. For me the most famous one is definitely when we knocked Liverpool off the perch. It was indeed the happiest day in my life. With all due respect, all the aforementioned clubs are successful apart from Manchester City: p. To be successful is a different thing and to continue the same process for years is a different ball game altogether. It requires commitment, dedication, and sacrifice which are inherited in Manchester United. There have been worst days too and for me it has to be the 1-6 battering against the noisy neighbours and the last day dramatic turnaround at the Etihad. Trust me I have seen Manchester United win many titles but the wait for the 20^th title is right up there, in the top drawer. 

 

The Ultimate Wish

 

Manchester United means everything to me. It means the world to me. I am elated when we win and my heart cries when we lose. My life starts at weekend and ends with it. I have become an ardent devotee. I know it sounds stupid but I can even postpone my marriage date if it clashes with Manchester United’s match. I have skipped my classes many times and I never regret it. I have even skipped many happy moments in my life just to watch Manchester United play. I am so lucky to be single because I am so bloody sure that I would have never devoted the same amount of time for my girl friend as much as I do for Manchester United. At least half of my office timing is devoted in surfing any news related to Manchester United and watching Manchester United videos. Every morning I utter these famous lyrics.

 

Take Me Home, United Road
To The Place I Belong
To Old Trafford
To See United
Take Me Home, United Road

 

 Before I die I want to visit Old Trafford one day and cry like a baby. I can never ever think of any other club except MANCHESTER UNITED.

 

Yours truly

 

RED DEVIL

By Darshan

Man Utd vs Crystal Palace - Review

A first home win of a new era, under David Moyes.

United starting XI: De Gea; Evra, Vidic, Ferdinand, Fabio; Young (Januzaj), Ando (Fella), Carrick, Tony V; Rooney; RvP (Chicharito)

With a 4-4-1-1 formation, Carrick back into the foundation in midfield and this time with Anderson, along with the return of Wayne Rooney with his headband whose played behind RVP. While United's latest purchase, Fellaini was there on the bench with Januzaj, and Chicharito.

Sir Alex Ferguson was spotted watching the match, too!

First half: Boring first-half.

At the beginning of the first 10 minutes, United directly controlled of the game, Carrick's direct shoot opened the attack. But after that, no opportunities are very significant.

Lack of creativity, so far.

United's attack pinned on the left side, where Young was. However, in the early to mid-first round he did not actually do the things that are important. He even earned a yellow card because of diving.

After that, United only get 2 meaningful chances. RVP's backheel kick was wide left foot, and so did RVP's attempts to score a wonderful volley utilizing beautiful long-pass by Rooney which only hit the post.

Instead Palace were getting a golden opportunity, a shoot from Gayle almost got United conceded.

But luck was still in favor of United, at the end of the first half, an acceleration of the forced Young forcibly stopped by Dickagoi. Penalty. Red card. As usual, RVP successfully carry out his duty properly. 1-0 United.

Second half: a large-scale invasion from the Belgians.

Not much has changed at the start of the second half, except for Young whose improved his game.

Fellaini finally got to make his debut for the late 60-minute, replacing AnderMcDson. He immediately gave a massive change in the game.

Januzaj was also making his debut PL replacing Young. He also gave a very big change to the game.

Two Belgian player made their debut at the same time at United, and were making big changes.

United showed their champions play, creativity in midfield seen growing rapidly in just a few minutes.Great combination from Januzaj-Rooney-Fellaini.

Great game shown by the three. Barrage was launched by United from the left side, where Januzaj located. Several times he made a solo run and cross that dangerous. Neither Fellaini who several times threatened Palace's defense.

But seriously, that lad is a candidate for United's no.7 - Januzaj. Prospective great player, United must immediately renew his contract. Immediately.

Okay, we return to the game.

And finally on the 80 minutes, a beautiful curling free-kick from Rooney with Speroni couldn't reach it, into Wazza's first goal of the season. 2-0 United. He also gives a hand kiss to United fans.

Chicharito influx replace RVP does not give a great effect to the game.

Full-time, United 2-0 Palace.

A perfect closing sentence which fit for this article: A proving ground by two prospective United star from Belgium in the new era.

Why Fellaini is the 'Man'?

"Why Fellaini?" "How good is he?" "Why did Manchester United only buy Fellaini this summer?" "What was Woodward doing during the summer?

These are the examples of questions that people ask why did Manchester United only signed Marouane Fellaini from Everton this summer. He signed for £27m, that's a lot! as we could have signed Anders Hererra, Mesut Ozil, or even Barcelona's Cesc Fabregas with that amount of money! Yes they may have cost more than £27 million.



Okay, in this article, i'll write some standard reasons why we bought the Belgian midfielder:

1) Forced

"YEAH, WE WERE FORCED TO BUY HIM". The first reason to explain how stupid Manchester United were during this transfer window was. Under the new management of David Moyes and new CEO Ed Woodward, Manchester United had a bidded on Barcelona's Thiago Alcantara - which we were about to get him and we lost him to Bayern - and also Manchester United put two bids on Cesc Fabregas. Barcelona didn't want to let their two stars go in the same transfer window, to many Manchester United fans say we were focused to sign Fellaini in the last seconds.

However it's better than nothing.


2) Fellaini is a box-to-box player

He's tall, he's strong, and that's what really matters. I'm sure that he'll be Carrick's best partner. United, in last few years, didn't have a box-to-box player - with the last box to box player we had was Darren Fletcher however now he has medicals issues, which has forced him to miss a  lot of matches for Manchester United.

For more easy examples, read the scenario below : "Fellaini gets the ball from the opponent just in front of United's box, dribbles past a few opponents and a brilliant pass to Carrick. Fellani then starts running endlessly to opponent's box. Carrick's gives long pass to Fellaini which he jumps so high, across the opponent, head the ball into the back of the net"


3) Anderson's Booster

Fellaini is the right man to stop Anderson from eating his yummy McDonald's which then starts to train more hard, if Anderson wants to be in the starting line-up - he must to prove himself.

Yes, Anderson has got great ability to be in the starting 11. However he's hardly consistent during his days with United. Anderson has to work hard to be in the squad.



4) The Most Standard Reason

Why I wrote "The Most Standard Reason"? Yes, because every article writes a similar article about this one.


His experienced shows it all.
More than 60 months the Afro man has played in Premier League - or should I say "BPL tested". The Belgian has tasted how hard the Premier League is. He has scored 32 goals from 163 appearances with Merseyside's blue of Everton.

That's four reasons from me why United bought Fellaini. With the addition of Fellaini we all hope Manchester United's midfielder will improve.

By Ivan

Player's Profile - Rio Ferdinand

A young Rio Ferdinand

The Early Days

Born on November the 7th 1978' England 'London' Played for 4 clubs which are West Ham, Bournemouth (Loan) Leeds United and Manchester United. Rio started his professional career at the age of 16 which he was scouted by Frank Larmpard's father 'Frank Lampard Sr' his first professional debut was off the bench at Upton park as the match ended 1-1 vs Sheffield Wednesday. After this he went on and had more than 100 apps for the Hammers with scoring two goals.

Leeds United - 2000-2002

After a six years stay at the Hammers, he signed for Leeds United in 2000, he signed for them for a record-breaking £18 million (at the time) making his debut against the Foxes (Leicester City) at Filbert street, it wasn't a good day for Rio to remember as it ended in defeat (3-1) Rio did score the same amount of goals which he did at West Ham (2) He didn't stay that long at Leeds United as he did at West ham, Rio only stayed for 2 years. 

Leicester Celebrate as Rio's hand is on his head. Leicester win 3-1

The Big time - Manchester United

After an excellent performance in the 2002 World cup for Rio Ferdinand; his price tag raised up a lot as Leeds United sold him to Manchester United for estimate £30 million. He won the Premier League title in his first season at Manchester United. In his career he has won six league titles so far. Also Rio Ferdinand is a Club world cup winner and has won the Champions league in the rain at Moscow (2008) The only cup Rio Ferdinand hasn't won with Manchester United is the FA cup. Rio Ferdinand has not only been a defender for Manchester united, he also has played in goal after Thomas Kuszcak got sent off for giving away a penalty against Portsmouth and Edwin Van Der Sar went off injured earlier in the game. Unfortunately he couldn't save Sulley Muntari's penalty even though he went the right way. Rio has played for Manchester United more than 400 times and scoring a few good goals (8) as many do remember his wonder strike vs Liverpool in 2006 (2-0) In 2003 Rio missed his routine drug test because according to a few people he went shopping, however he did to the drug test later and passed but still got banned from playing for eight months and then coming back in a game against Liverpool and winning 2-1 in 2004. In everyone's eyes Rio Ferdinand is a world class footballer!

By RA 

5 Reasons Why Nani Should Stay

Luis Nani has ended his speculation about his future at Manchester United after agreeing a new five-year deal with the club. Some fans somehow dislike him, but some do love him.

Bought from Sporting Lisbon back in 2007, Nani was SAF's option after Ronaldo because of his similarity and style compared to Ronaldo. But, after spent years in United, we all know that Nani is a totally different player than Ronaldo. Meanwhile, in my mind, he's an important player for the club. Why? I've 5 reasons for that

1) Game Changer

Nani's ability to change the game is completely brilliant. Remember the Community Shield 2011 match? He was absolutely brilliant during second half, and ended the game with a fantastic counter-attack goal after a brilliant comeback from United.

Nani, in my opinion, never afraid to do himself during the game. With a perfect tactic, he's such an important player for the team. I hope the new manager will do well to Nani as a game changer.



2) Skills














When he touches the ball, people will catch their eyes on him because he'll do some fantastic tricks and skills. His playing style of street football is his image of people's mind because of tricks he usually does.

He's never afraid to do tricks, even in a big match. As born from street football, his street football technique always bring him on the pitch.


3) Crossing Ability










Different with Ronaldo, Nani is a typical classic winger. He likes to cross and passes the ball to the danger area. Remember, Rooney's brilliant overhead kick vs City? Nani built it! But, somehow he never afraid too to take some speculation shot!

In fact, he has made more assist compared to Ronaldo in their first 100 appearance for United. Nani made 33 assists, while Ronaldo only made 'just' 12
assists in his first 100 United appearance. With that, we can conclude that Nani isn't a typical selfish player.

4) Similar with Ronaldo














Despite they're actually have different types, Nani and Ronaldo are typically same. Both were born on street football, and came from the same club - Sporting Lisbon.


The reason why SAF sold Ronaldo - despite the world transfer record, before broken by Bale - was because he already had Nani - which is typically similar. Sir Alex always motivating him and wanted him as the 'replacement' of Ronaldo. Nani isn't and never be Ronaldo, but he's always try to proves himself that United are needing him as himself, not as Ronaldo.


5) Acrobatic Celebration

This is why the fans always want him to score - the Capoeira celebration!

Nani has made his Capoeira celebration as his trademark celebration during his days in Sporting Lisbon. His acrobating celebration always made everyone more happy after his goal. But, SAF didn't like the celebration because he was afraid that it might injured him.

Nevertheless, that's brilliant! And the fans would love to see that!

by Adrian

Manchester United in the transfer window

Manchester United in the transfer window during the summer of 2013 was one which was seen  by a selection of united fans as a very disappointing and unsuccessful transfer window for Manchester United with numerous players been linked to be joining from Thigao Alcantra now of Bayern Munich and Marouane Fellaini who was the only played who ended up joining Manchester United on deadline day for £27 million . In this blog post i will be looking at Manchester United during the transfer window, the players which Manchester United were constantly linked with during the window and whether they would have been a success at united or not. I will also be looking at whether the critics and fans themselves were right at whether this has been an unsuccessful transfer window for Manchester United or whether there are other footballs clubs who could be seen to be in a worse position than us.


Thiago Alcantra

Thiago Alcantra was a player who was constantly linked with Manchester United during the early days of the transfer window and was rumoured to be heading towards Old Trafford before he completed a move to Bayern Munich who were managed by his former manager at Barcelona Pep Guardiola and was cited as one of the main reasons why he chose to join Bayern and that according to him there was no supposed bid at all from Manchester United and that even some convincing from David De Gea wasn't good enough to sway him towards united.

How good would he have done at united? 
I personally think and i'm sure many Manchester United would agree with me that he would have done a terrific job at Manchester United as along with Michael Carrick he would be the stand out midfielder who would be starting regularly in the first team and could have created numerous goal scoring chances and maybe scored a few goals himself. But as we know he chose to join Bayern Munich and maybe some say that compared to joining Manchester United this would be a bad decision especially with the number of midfielders which Bayern already have in their possession especially as it is edging closer towards the world cup so Thiago will want to get some games so he will be able to feature in the Spain squad. And at this point Thiago hasn't had the best of times at Bayern already as he has already been on the bench numerous times and sometimes not even in the squad and recently suffered a ligament injury with will keep him out for 7 weeks, so maybe Thiago will regret not moving to united but only time will tell on that one.

Cesc Fabregas

Another world class midfielder who we tried to sign was Cesc Fabregas in the early stages of the transfer window. Fabregas was the subject of a 30 and 35 million bid from Manchester United which were rejected by Barcelona and Fabregas confirmed that he wanted to stay at Barcelona and nothing else ever materialized from this.

How good would he have done at united?
I think personally Fabregas would have done a fantastic job at United he is a proven premier league player who was always consistent and would be able to set up goals for his teamates and score a few and form a fomidable partnership with Michael Carrick and would both attack and defend which is just what United would have needed not just in the premier league but in europe as well, as midfield is where united lack and because of this would suffer against the bigger teams in the european competitions. And despite his affiliation with Arsenal as well and as he is very fond of his time over there and is still passionate about Arsenal as was proven with Robin Van Persie last season if he puts in good performances that he will able to win over the united fans which I believe Cesc Fabregas would have been able to win over the united fans and that if he would have came to Old Traffordhe would have done a fantastic job. But at some point and I think most fans knew that there wasn't much chance of Fabregas joining United anyway unless the right bid was made and that Farbregas had only recently left Arsenal to join his boyhood club Barcelona again so there was very little chance he would leave again, and although he would have done a fantastic job at united it was target that united probably wouldn't be able to reach.

Cristiano Ronaldo

There were also strong rumours circulating that the fromer Manchester United player would return back to Old Trafford and that he had falling out with Real Madrid after his time under Jose Mourhino and that he wanted a new contract which was worth 350,000 a week. There were supposed strong rumours circulating about the football world when Ronaldo tweeted saying that "all news about his contract renewals were false" and that there were rumours circulating of secret meetings but nothing concrete ever appeared out of this and while some fans believe it is almost inevitable that Ronaldo will return back to Old Trafford one day it certainly wasn't in this transfer window and that this was more than just a pipe dream for the Manchester United fans.

How good would he have done at united?
It almost inevitable to say how brilliant Ronaldo would have done at united in his supposed second coming at united and would have maybe been able to do better than he did in his first time at united considerng how much he has improved as a player compared to what he was he was like in his first time at united he could do an absolute fantastic job and could bring back the days of use possibly competing in the champions league and winning it for the first time since 2008.  The question which was still debated over most united fans lips is when ronaldo will ever come back to united as some fans believe its almost inevitable that he will return back while others don't think that will be the case. I for one do believe that Ronaldo will come back to united soon enough but it won't be until he is in his 30's or with the arrival of Gareth Bale on the scene will his Ronaldo's ego possibly tempt him towards a move back to his former club where he will be seen as more of a hero and will have more limelight there than he will now at Real Madrid.

Andre Herrera

Andre Herrera was seen as a late bloomer during the transfer window and a deal which only initiated during the late stages of the transfer window, and only until deadline day was anything initiated by Manchester United in which a £30.5 million bid was rumored to have been made by Manchester United which triggered his release clause and a deal was rumored to be scrapped out during the last few hours of deadline day. However after problems with the money which was been handed out due to tax problems and supposed "imposters" pretending to be working from Manchester United and working the deal out but for whatever the reason was the deal for Andre Herrera fell through which dissapointed and frustrated many united fans.

How good would he have done at united?
Admittedly most people would admit that before united were linked with Andre Herrera before he was linked with us, but from what i have heard and seen of him and remember from when he play against us in the Europa League last year that he would have been a good player for us and although it may have took him a while to adapt to the premier league the fact that he is only 24 would have served him well and i think that in time he would have been a great buy for us especially to improve our midfield which is something we desperately need to improve on.

Leighton Baines

Leighton Baines has been subject of a rumored transfer to Manchester United since last year in which a £12 million bid was made by Sir Alex Ferguson and was rejected by David Moyes and now that David Moyes was the Manchester United manager it was rumoured that he would follow Moyes to Manchester United and was the subject of another 12 million bid and a double bid of 24 million for both him and Fellaini which was called "derisory" by Everton. While at the end Fellaini did complete a £27 million move Baines did not follow suit and did not join Manchester United for whatever reason this may be.
How good would he have done at united?
It has been debated by many united fans just how good Baines would have done at Old Tafford as some believe that with Evra still at united and with Buttner as well it would be unkown how much playing time Baines would get at United. But i do believe that Baines would have been our first choice LB at the club and would have done a fantastic job at united as he can work well both attackingly and importantly defensively as well which is just what United need. And with him been an efficient free kick taker for Everton and this has some which United have lacked in previous seasons probably since we had Ronaldo it would have helped us that extra compared to what Evra could have offered us.

Marouane Fellaini 

While the one signing which Manchester United did manage to complete on deadline day was the signing of Marouane Fellaini on transfer deadline day for £27 million. Originally there was a double bid of £24 million bid for both Fellaini and Baines which was seen by Everton as "derisory", it then took until deadline day for United to make any sufficient move when the deal was finally completed in the late hours of transfer deadline day and was confirmed by united late into the hours of the day and was a deal which elated many united fans after finally signing a midfielder for the first time since Owen Hargreaves in 2008.
How good will he do at united?
I think that personally Marouane Fellaini will do a fantastic job at Manchester United and will form a fantastic partnership with Michael Carrick as both players can play both attackingly and defensively and Fellaini is just the type of player we have needed in our midfield probably since the days of Owen Hargreaves and is just the midfielder we need and in my opinion is gonna be a fantastic buy for us and i can't wait for him to make his debut against Crystal Palace.

How well have we done this transfer window?
Despite what people have said about this been a poor transfer window for Manchester United the fact that we have signed a world class midfielder in Marouane Fellaini shows that i think that this has been a successful window for us  and while this could have been a transfer which could have been dealt with earlier and not have been dragged out and then maybe we could have signed other players such as the others mentioned above i still believe this has been a successful window for us and that we have managed to sign the type of player that we needed in our squad and that while there may still be some improvements needed we have managed to solve the main area which we have struggled with since Hargreaves left and because of that i would say this has been a successful transfer window for us. And while other teams may have strengthened significantly for example Arsenal signing Mesut Ozil. But i still think that compared to most teams in the top 4 we have a stronger in depth squad especially up front and in defence compared to these clubs which will help us more in the season for example Arsenal have a good attacking line up but are poor defeinsvely and have very little cover, Chelsea are good overall in many key areas but yet again lack the squad depth in key areas and only really have this in midfield and up front and even up front players such as Eto aren't as good enough for the Premier League compared to someone like Luaku who was recently loaned out to Everton, and while Manchester City have a good first team squad but yet again only have squad depth up front and lack it in the midfield and defensively.   

5 Reasons We Need Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney for sale? Oh God no!
Yes, Wayne Rooney is in controversial side these days, saying he's not happy at Manchester United and wants to leave. But, I've got to admit that we need Wayne Rooney - we can't sell him!

1) Rooney is a hard worker.


These days, its so rare to find a typical hard worker Footballer, and unfortunately we already have the person in Wayne Rooney.


Rooney always gives his best, he's gives 100% in every game he played. Rooney hardly feels exhausted during 90mins and is always covering every blade of grass.



2) Hungry to win

Rooney is a true winner. Giving 100% in every match is the simple answer why he's a true winner. He wants every medal which Manchester United can get  each season, so he wants to win every game for his team.

On the age of 27, Rooney has already had plenty of medals. But, I'm sure that he wants more - he's addicted to winning!


3) Plays for the team

Do you remember van Persie's amazing volley goal vs Aston Villa last season? It was built up by Rooney.

Rooney's ambition to help his team to gain a win never makes him selfish. He always spreads the ball where his teammates' position are better than him. He's not afraid to shoot a speculator shot.



4) Never got satisfied

Rooney's personality to win makes him never getting satisfaction for more glory. Since he's addicted to winning, all he wants to do just play and win.

He knows how to get medals - by winning. With that, he builds his own "hungry for win" personality.


5) Consistent

Form is temporary, class is permanent. Rooney's form may not be good at all time. But he could maintain his good form for long time,

In these days football, its rare to get a consistent player. United have it in Rooney, that's why he's a crucial part of the team.