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28 Mar 2024 17:52:14
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Kostas Tsimikas

27 Mar 2024 07:52:57
{Ed's Note - Ed001 has posted a new player profile about, Kostas Tsimikas

 0


27 Mar 2024 09:39:30
Hi Ed1 would you be able to do one on Mainoo? I’d be interested to see your thoughts on him.

 0


{Ed001's Note - are you being serious?}

 2


27 Mar 2024 10:01:37
Have you done one or made a comment I’ve missed Ed? Sorry if I have.

 0


{Ed001's Note - yes mate, Mainoo was the one I did previously. If you look at the list of players on the player-profile site, it is the one beneath this one. That's why I wasn't sure if it was a joke, I was wondering if the link had popped up repeatedly or something.}

 0


27 Mar 2024 10:10:31
Ah cheers Ed!

Just had a read, agree with a lot of it. Think we’ve a real player here.

The way he moves with the ball, and his dribbling reminds me a good bit on Thiago as well. He’s got that nice drop of the shoulder to get a yard or two of space.

Fingers crossed we keep him clear of injury and build a proper side around him.

 0


{Ed001's Note - glad you like mate. He is a special talent.}

 0


27 Mar 2024 10:26:11
Makelele vibes. Understated and essential.

 0


27 Mar 2024 14:04:13
Not for me Spenno, Makelele was an out and out defensive midfielder with limited technical ability. he did redefine the DM position which has been redefined since. Mainoo is a box to box/ number 8 type player.

 3


27 Mar 2024 14:34:20
Ok, understated and essential.

 0


26 Mar 2024 21:48:55
Mainoo might just have booked his ticket on the plane to the euros. The lads been really impressive since he came into our side and he gets better game by game. Really hope we nurture him properly and he doesn't go the way of a few others. Hopefully he has good people round him to help him.

 3


27 Mar 2024 01:01:30
Special special player.

 1


27 Mar 2024 07:54:41
We also need to build a team that can compete otherwise he'll be poached and we will lose him. He's that good!

 3


27 Mar 2024 10:07:51
Mainoo definitely looks like a special player and one that we should be looking to build around for the future whilst still making sure we do not burn him out.
Key for me will be deciding how we want to play him and getting a good partner for him to develop with over the next few years.

 3


24 Mar 2024 08:19:44
guessing this weeks news is Nagelman as our number one choice and some backtracking on Southgate. whichever way the wind blows the news regarding us blows that way. wait for it its coming :)

 1


24 Mar 2024 09:13:29
Yep if England had beat Brazil the red tops would keep on riding the Southgate train.

This week Nagelsmann, next week who knows, maybe Wesley Sneijder is keen to join as first team coach.

 9


24 Mar 2024 09:54:42
Club approached Snijdgijerrr but wanted the team to travel to every game via helicopter.

 1


25 Mar 2024 11:54:01
Thomas Frank being reported as flavour of the day today.

 0


25 Mar 2024 12:59:08
Denmark has a lot of Michelin star restaurants, so that could be tasty. I’d have a nibble.

 0


25 Mar 2024 13:45:38
Oh we must be playing Brentford next. Comical stuff. But lots of people will have their knickers in a twist.

 1


25 Mar 2024 13:48:51
Pretty sure we will see every manager linked before the season ends. Anything to sell news. As long as its not Southgates name any more I will be happy.

 2


26 Mar 2024 07:18:59
As if by magic, today its Thomas Frank - haha.

 0


22 Mar 2024 21:26:31
A lot of talk about Southgate in various quarters recently, taking aside his eligibility and ability to be United manager. I just don't see how it would work logistically. This is a huge summer for the club, new owners (kind of) and new structure being put in place, new Dof etc and obviously numerous changes required in the playing squad.

If we did decide on Southgate, he wouldn't be available until mid / end of July at the earliest, which throws our preseason off and leaves us behind the 8 ball again. I don't think he's the right man for the job anyways, but his availability during this crucial summer must surely play into the thinking also.

 4


22 Mar 2024 22:41:48
The worst thing we can do would be to hire Southgate as manager

He’s done nothing at club level

And underachieved at international level

The runs we have had go in the past 3 tournaments and when we have come across a half decent team we have lost

People bang on about ten hag and his tactics, Jesus Southgate’s tactics are worse

He doesn’t beat top 10 ranked teams.

Got to stay clear of Southgate imo if we sack ten hag big big mistake from ineos.

 20


23 Mar 2024 07:35:35
Fully agree Bolger.

Southgate’s tactics (or lack thereof) are why England lost to Italy and Croatia. The worse thing England can do against a top international side is score early. It then becomes 10 men behind the ball and trying to hold on for 80 minutes.

I’ve said on here before, I think it’s a travesty England have him as manager given the amount of talent and depth in the squad, especially in midfield and forward positions.

I’ll happily eat my words come July if things change, but listening to Darren Bent (who claims he’s closely connected to the England setup) talking about how Southgate will never not have two holding midfielders, I’m not sure it will happen.

 3


{Ed077's Note - The thing with England under Southgate is the despite the finishes in the tournaments, England haven't beaten any team when they weren't going in as clear favorite. Everytime they were expected to be tested and maybe not come out victorious, they've gone lost that match.}

 12


23 Mar 2024 09:40:06
Ed077, nail on head. Anytime they come up against a higher ranked team, they fail.

With the talent at their disposal, it's criminal.

Imagine thinking that Southgate could do a job at United, deary me.

 7


{Ed077's Note - England have had the "luck of the draw" and "good fortunes with regards to injury" and still haven failed to exceed any expectations.}

 8


23 Mar 2024 13:27:54
I think Southgate has been the right man, in the right place, at the right time for England.

He has his limitations, everyone does. We won't find a manager without some limitations. The trick is to make sure the management team makes up for those limitations.

SAF was one of the best managers ever. Yet for all his ability to get the most out of players, to keep the dressing room hungry and focused, for his mental tennis and mind games that could derail a title rival, for being able to plan ahead and make sure that there was a ready replacement waiting just at the right time as a player started to drop off. For all of those great skills he was tactically limited. He knew this, and he addressed it by regularly brining in a new assistant manager who had learned and focused on the newest tactics and techniques. Brining someone in with new ideas and letting them have more control than most assistant managers would get at most other clubs meant the team was able to tactically evolve and stay fresh, rather than sticking to the same tired and trusted tactics even when the football landscape has changed. Manager who do that fade from relevance eventually as they become outdated.

Southgate seems to have a similar tactical weakness, and if he had or if he trusted the advice of those in his management team a little more then maybe he'd have won something as England manager already.

He's done a great job of changing the attitude and mentality around the England camp. Players with poor attitudes are given short shift and aren't welcome no matter how talented (Sancho, Greenwood) . He appreciates that it isn't about assembling the best players, but about building the strongest team. He saw the divisions in the England camp as a player, and he knows how they limited a very talented generation of players who probably should have won something. Certainly less or equally talented teams won things during that time.

I think he's been fortunate to be England manager at this time, while many people bemoaned the homegrown quota brought into the the EPL all those years ago we are now seeing the fruits of that policy.

If there was a weakness to the "Golden generation" it was how few options there were to pick beyond the obvious 23 man squad. The drop off in quality from Owen and Rooney to Vassell and Johnson was massive. That was the same issue all over the pitch. There was never a genuine debate about who should and shouldn't be selected. Now though there are players who will not be selected for this summers Euros who would probably be first choice for most other nations.

In defence we have James, Walker, Trippier, TAA, White, Livramento, Stones, Maguire, Konsa, Tomori, Dunk, Guehi, Branthwaite, Colwill, Gomez, Tarkowski, Kilman, Mings, Shaw, Chilwell, Henry, Burn, Mitchell.

There are 23 defenders all of whom have a genuine shout of being selected, 8 maybe 9 will get to go, meaning 14-15 of them will be watching from home. Everyone will have their opinion over which ones should go, but bar maybe LB where Shaw and Chilwell are a level above the other options of Henry, Burn and Mitchell, there can be a genuine debate over which RB's should go, or which CB's.

This quality in depth means we are less reliant on having all our best players fit and in form this summer. This is a direct result of the homegrown quota. I also think they got the balance right. Less players having to be homegrown would reduce the about of options we would now have. While more would impact the quality of the club squads meaning the homegrown players would be training with less quality around them to push them and drive them to improve.

So Southgate has been fortunate to be the guy in charge just as these players have become available. While this quality in depth has allowed him to be more selective and to not call up players whose attitude or demeanour could effect the team.

However, that does not make him a great choice for United. I can see the appeal, a manager who hasn't been used to picking his transfer targets and would therefore maybe be more amenable to a new structure where the manager has less say (less say, not no say) . While his ability to create a harmonious camp is obviously another big plus given the issues our squad has had over the past decade. He has also shown he can handle the pressure of the England job, so should be well placed to handle the pressure at Manchester United.

All that said, tactically he seems very weak and limited. Which doesn't really fit into this idea that INEOS want a coach who'll focus on improving the players, and getting them to play good football. This is also something Southgate hasn't had to do on a consistent basis as England manager where he might have to run 20 coaching sessions a year rather than 5 sessions a week.

This also is a factor in his ability to deal with the pressure of being Manchester United manager, the pressure probably isn't any greater at United than it is for England, but at United it is constant, every day, every week. While with England its for a few weeks of the year during qualifying/ friendlies and for 6 weeks every two years for a tournament.

Finally if there is one thing I'd fault EtH with is he has a lack of personality (or at least it doesn't show in his interactions with the press) . This is something that is also an issue with Southgate. He comes across wet, he seems to lack confidence or fight, he doesn't seem to have much of a sense of humour. He seems like grey suit, I really couldn't tell you anything about his personality despite him being the England manager for 8 years. I'm sure he is a nice guy, but he hasn't shown those personal qualities I'd expect and want in a Manchester United manager.

Personally I'd be gutted if Southgate was to be the next United manager, I really don't see it as being successful. The only saving grace is that the new structure at the club should in theory mean the club is not building for a manager, but for their own vision. Meaning if a manager is not successful then we should in theory be able to sack them without being left with a half a dozen players signed by them to suit their style of play.

Maybe that is where Southgate fits in, he's not the guy to take the project to the finish line, but is maybe seen as the right guy to implement the changes and then be a the fall guy, making way for the guy who'll then have well run club and a well built squad ready to take the next step.

I dunno, all I know is I'd be disappointed to see Southgate in the Old Trafford dugout.

 12


23 Mar 2024 15:35:36
Im not endorsing Southgate, like I said I don’t think he’s the man for the job but when you add in his availability to the mix it makes it even more absurd to go for him…i.

 1


23 Mar 2024 16:47:39
I think it's right for them to consider him. I think there is a long list of potential managers that will all come under consideration some obviously to a greater degree than others.
I don't think for one minute he will be our next manager. There are so many reasons I come to that conclusion.
If England were not playing this week the sounthgste talk would not be at the height it is.
Lots of people having their buttons pushed by this and I don't think there is a story in it.
I genuinely believed Southgate when he spoke on the subject yesterday.
I really hope he wins the euros and stays on for the world Cup. Done a great job for England imo. I think intl football suits him.

 4


23 Mar 2024 18:08:07
Out of interest who would u pick Ken?

 0


23 Mar 2024 19:22:10
I really don't know Tim. I don't know enough about a lot of the names mentioned to be honest.
I'm not that fused really who comes in. Whomever it is, has a great opportunity. They won't be taking over as big a mess as some of their predecessors. Great time to be coming in imo.

 0


24 Mar 2024 11:39:10
The number of posts and conversations around Southgate this week mean that the red top scum that started the rumour have got exactly what they wanted. It’s madness what people will believe.

 3


24 Mar 2024 13:00:05
Gds2 they are pushing the buttons of the gullible and sitting back and laughing as people go into meltdown it's quite funny actually.

 1


22 Mar 2024 14:16:51
Ed's can we run a poll for posters on the site.

If it was up to you, would you give Ten Hag another year or would you replace with new manager.

I realised Ineos will do what they do, but interested what the posters on here would do given the choice.

 2


{Ed033's Note -


Man Utd Manager poll

 1


22 Mar 2024 15:53:01
How come Ken got 6 votes?

 2


22 Mar 2024 16:02:46
Replace for me.

Don't get me wrong, he's a good manager and he's done OK.
Unlike some, I'll consider the unusual pressures he's faced with the respect they demand - he's had a proper rough ride.

However, I cannot lie and pretend to have the belief that he's the answer. Some decisions he's made are utterly baffling to me. Pursuing the signing of Antony over Kudus was bad enough, but not taking the option on Sabitzer was just ridiculous imo.
The portrayal of him as some kind of revelation after standing his ground against Sancho is absurd - any vertebrate manager would do the same.
I don't consider his style to be anything like the 'United way' beyond the promotion of youth.
There is little to thrill or get the punters properly buzzing before they reach their seats. Where Klopp likes the heavy metal approach, ten Hag seems to adopt the random playlist approach.

OT can be an uncompromising gauge of how things are and it's the sound that attests so vividly the consensus.
While I'm sure the Liverpool match drew the claustrophobic cacophony I love so much, I have heard the strained silence of disappointment that usually precedes a managerial change at OT.

Honestly, I hope I'm wrong because I do like the guy.
I hope I'm hearing things.
I hope Erik has more to him.
I hope he oversees a period of success.
But I just don't see it.

For me, humbly, replace.

 5


22 Mar 2024 16:14:43
Sabitzer? Who? Oh yes him. I'd forgotten all about him for a while.

 6


22 Mar 2024 16:28:44
I'm not alone ports and no issue at all being in the minority.
I can understand why people feel the way they do.
You see things I don't and I see things you don't.
For every positive stat there is an equally damning negative one like in most situations.
At the end of the day sjr and team as dodgy says in his request are the guys that will decide. Their opinion will be the only one that counts.
I will support the team whomever is in charge. It really makes no odds to me. I can't control it so just have to accept it.
I would prefer a change for the reasons I've posted. If the new investors see what your seeing then eth will be kept in place and be given the chance to improve things further.
Honestly it's not that big a thing to me. Because I support the team even if I don't agree with selection or tactics or players or coaches. I'm a loyal customer simple as that, I won't agree with everything and I won't like everything but I'll always support and want the team to win.
Even when we won under ole I was 1st on to congratulate performances or subs, whatever. Because my feelings for the club would override any feelings towards an employee.
I realise that I'm not an expert and that any opinions I have are unimportant. We don't get a vote it's not a democracy. Its a business so we either support the decisions or put up with them grudgingly.
I've been wrong a million times about all sorts of stuff united related and in everyday stuff. If I'm wrong about this it will just be another thing I was incorrect about. I won't be losing any sleep over it either way.
I didn't want Jose fired and he was I didn't want ole to be given the job and he was. Its no big deal.
If eth is kept and does well I be singing his name like all supporters.
If eth isn't kept it's a case of the king is dead long live the new king, whomever that is and I'll want and expect him to do well.
We have a new dof and management team in place or coming into place. That's what everybody here wanted.
So I'll be happy to follow whatever road they go down. I may not be best pleased but I'll bow to their better judgement and knowledge and continue to be a loyal customer and supporter. If decisions they make turn out to be poor ones or look like poor ones after a reasonable period of time I'll voice my opinion on it full in knowledge that not everybody will agree.

 1


22 Mar 2024 16:41:30
One thing to consider for everyone is who's the replacement going to be? Southgate or Ten Hag is different question for many than say Nagelsmann, Amorim, etc or Ten Hag?

 7


22 Mar 2024 18:11:20
I voted to keep ETH.

 2


22 Mar 2024 17:54:04
Good point ed077.
There are some coaches I would definitely prefer we don't pursue.

 1


22 Mar 2024 18:47:38
Could we have a second poll Ed.

Keep ten Hag or bring in Southgate :D.

 1


22 Mar 2024 20:04:20
22 percent to replace. You may not be alone ken, but you're in the minority so far.

 2


22 Mar 2024 20:36:27
If it’s sack and bring in Southgate then absolutely not. Who is there available to replace him though.

I’m not convinced by ten hag yet. If I’m honest I’m sceptical that anyone will be a success until our new mob upstairs have had 18-24 months.

If we get someone new in and there’s teething problems with the new hierarchy then we’ll be back in the same boat.

I’d say get the board sorted, give him another season, Christmas at least then make a decision.

 3


22 Mar 2024 22:19:42
Ken, I thought it was great when you said “Honestly it’s not that big a thing to me” 😂.

 4


23 Mar 2024 01:06:07
Its not. I don't feel like I did with ole I don't dislike eth I just don't see him doing the job we need. I see traits I don't like in a manager and ones I do like.
He has been far from a disaster.
I don't care who coaches or plays for us a long as they are doing a really good job and the team are playing well and attractive football.

 1


22 Mar 2024 19:32:26
Ed, I think this is the most important consideration. Personally, I’m not overwhelmed by any of the current rumours so see little value, personally, in changing.

 0


{Ed077's Note - I think the most likely candidate is Potter (no inside info) and that is, I'm sure, going to divide the fan base I'm the least.}

 4


23 Mar 2024 07:30:52
Ed077,

I rate Potter. He was unlucky at Chelsea. He made the wrong choice in joining the T Boehly revolution. That's hindsight for you.

But I think it was a good learning curve for him. He perhaps is the right man to help set the club up again, as he has done this before.

Also he has worked with Ashworth. His Brighton played some really good football aswell.

 0


{Ed077's Note - I like him but I'm not sure he can hit the ground running, he comes across to me like a coach who needs time to build a team and time is the thing that isnt given to managers anymore. Maybe he's learnt from his stint at Chelsea ? }

 2


23 Mar 2024 09:45:03
I like potter but he was a disaster at a big club, you could see in his appearance the pressure and toll literally ate him alive! We’re much bigger than a big club with scrutiny he can never imagine! Big no for me regarding potter.

 0


23 Mar 2024 10:23:26
34 votes to replace the manager, one from Ken and 33 from Maze's various accounts 🤣🤣🤣.

 7


23 Mar 2024 08:26:15
Ed077,

Who would be your pick for manager then?

Based on available managers.

 0


{Ed077's Note - Nagelsmann for me from the possible options. ( but who I think possible or unrealistic may not be seen as such by you guys) Obviously I don't consider Alonso or Klopp realistic options.

I think there's still a way for Ten Hag to earn another year but change of ownership and higher management usually means change of manager is inevitable.}

 3


23 Mar 2024 09:43:11
Ed077, potter is a fine coach and no doubt would do a job anywhere.

But to replace ETH?

Ornstein made the point, if we were hiring a new coach today, ETH is exactly the type of coach we would be looking at. Let him cook, give him time, he has all the ingredients required. The club just have to truly back him, buy clever and allow him to coach. I think what he has done so far with this squad, the mixmash that it is, the injuries they have had to endure, and players he did not want, is fantastic.

 2


{Ed077's Note - fantastic is going too far for me, the manner of defeats at certain parts of the seasons have been bad if you ask me, but he's not completely stunk the place IMO, when all things are accounted for.

Another thing for me is, many of our current squad members have failed to deliver under various managers with different ideas, CVs, everything. The same players who threw the towel in under Jose, pulled the plug for OGS and didn't turn up under Rangnick either. So a change of culture, and mentality has to happen in the dressing room or else we run the risk of getting back in the same spot in another 24_36 months time.}

 4


23 Mar 2024 15:49:52
I voted to keep eth, but then I'm an Arsenal fan.

 4


23 Mar 2024 17:04:41
Best of luck for the rest of the season Davy. Hope you win the league. The cl may be a step too far this season but imo arsenal have been the best team to watch this year and I really hope they can keep it up.

 1


23 Mar 2024 16:36:48
Yes Ed, Fantastic is OTT. But the problems are bigger than the manager for sure. Considering that we have been in 2 Cup finals, hopefully a 3rd in 2 seasons is very good IMO, when taking in everything.

 0


{Ed077's Note - the issues at the club, from what it seems to me, doesn't begin or end at the manager's door; but it may pass through it ??}

 2


23 Mar 2024 18:22:52
Thanks Ken, I think one of your biggest misses this season, was Martinez, he doesn't solve all the problems, but his stability could free up the midfield a bit more, to play further forward.

 0


24 Mar 2024 00:11:36
Thanks for the poll ed. Interesting to read the room after all the chatter these past few weeks. I agree with Ken's point further up, that the southgate rumours are just clickbait stories during international week. He may well be on some long list somewhere for consideration, but the media are running it for everything they can for clicks.

 0


Kobbie Mainoo

22 Mar 2024 10:48:06
{Ed's Note - Ed001 has posted a new player profile about, Kobbie Mainoo

 7


22 Mar 2024 11:24:57
Great post ED001.

The kid does look special. At least he has given Utd something positive to talk about.

He could potentially show us what he really is capable of, if Southgate plays him in a strong 11.

 2


{Ed001's Note - I hope he does get the chance, he has earnt it.}

 6


22 Mar 2024 11:37:26
Thanks Ed001. How would you compare him to some of your homegrown/ young midfielders?

 1


{Ed001's Note - different types of players, they were mainly attackers that are just now evolving into midfielders. Mainoo is a fully read mid. The only one who can really stand comparison with him as being on a similar level is Bajcetic, but his injury might have affected him adversely. So right now Mainoo looks ahead of all of them.}

 4


22 Mar 2024 11:47:28
The key thing is getting him the right partner in midfield, linked with dewsbury-hall today, i would like to see us sign palhinha from fulham to play alongside mainoo and then have bruno/ mount play as number 10.

 1


22 Mar 2024 12:48:48
Thanks for taking on the request Ed, I’ll take a look tonight 👍.

 1


{Ed001's Note - I hope it lives up to expectations.}

 1


22 Mar 2024 13:13:50
Really good read Ed001 and I think a fair assessment of Mainoo. He is performing ahead of where anyone would have expected this season and it could be argued having to do more than we would like for an 18 year old in his first season.
Going into next season I hope we decide what we want him to be (holding midfielder or that box to box) and get him the right partner to play with. I personally feel like it will be the latter and we will be looking at a true holding midfielder to replace Casimero (even if we keep him for another year) .
It is exciting to think of us having a settled strong central core running through the team (Onana, Martinez/ New CB, Mainoo/ New HM, Fernandes, Hojlund) next year.

 2


{Ed001's Note - thank you Brad.}

 1


22 Mar 2024 14:12:41
Great read as always ed.

 1


{Ed001's Note - thank you angel.}

 0


22 Mar 2024 15:02:55
Excellent read Ed.

 0


{Ed001's Note - cheers Fizz.}

 1


22 Mar 2024 19:03:53
Thanks again Ed.

I’m really excited by the boy, despite usually being amongst the first to encourage others not to put too much pressure on youngsters.

It’s good to get an unbiased view which pairs up with what all Manchester United fans are talking about.

I agree with your point about the next 10 years, and think it would be criminal for the club to waste his talents by continuing with the conveyor belt of managers and styles. Again the mention of Ineos and the importance of their handling of the club and the impact that has on the player should not be understated. Furthermore with Garnacho and Hojlund it feels like we have the makings what the squad will look like in 5 years (which no doubt would’ve also included Greenwood if he weren’t such a pleb) .

I feel we have a generational midfielder on our hands and just hope he fulfils his potential at the club.

 0


{Ed001's Note - fingers crossed for him Wazza, he really does have that generational talent.}

 0


23 Mar 2024 10:50:21
Nice post Ed001, Mainoo really has been the bright spot in an otherwise very forgetful season for United.

I do wonder how much better off we'd be if he was available between August and December. How many more points would we have?

Which considering he's an 18 year old having his break out season kind of highlights just how good he's been.

Although a different kind of midfielder, his breakout season playing in the heart of midfield for a big side when he's so young reminds me of the impact Fabregas had in his first season at Arsenal.

For me the most impressive thing about Mainoo is his intelligence and ability to read the game. He plays like a player with 5 years experience despite only making 16 first team appearances.

Normally you see youngsters breakthrough with the talent, but the decision making and temperament are not there. If they develop those then they live up to the hype, if they don't then they drift into that category of former wonder kid who never lived up to the billing.

Yet Mainoo at 18 has the intelligence to make the right decisions, along with the temperament, he's a winner and has that drive, but he has the mentality to measure that, to not let his emotions overwhelm him and force him into a mistake.

These aren't things players typically develop until they have 3 or 4 season's under their belt at least. The fact Mainoo is so far ahead of the curve in these areas is frankly scary and why it's difficult to gauge where the limit on his potential is.

For United it is now about finding the right players to build around him.

While there is a lot of clamour for João Neves, and rightly so he is a phenomenal young player. I just don't see a world where any top side lines up with an 18 and a 19 year old in the heart of their midfield. Which kind of feels like it will be a case of either or when picking a starting 11, and both are too good to be sitting on the bench.

The player I'd go for to play alongside him in midfield is Florentino Luis of Benfica. While all the attention in their midfield over the past few years has been first on Enzo Fernandez and now on João Neves, it is Florentino who has been the ever present and the foil these two players have needed to flourish.

We have seen Enzo Fernandez struggle to replicate his best form at Chelsea, even with very good players like Caicedo next to him.

I also wonder how João Neves would play elsewhere without Florentino alongside him.

He's the ideal player, a No.6 who is strong in the tackle, has a great passing range and reads the game really well, meaning he is always in the right place at the right time to snuff out danger. He's very much like Micheal Carrick, and just like Carrick he gets overlooked because the job he does isn't flashy. But it is effective in helping those around him play better. Florentino also has a good amount of experience in top flight football and in European football.

Florentino Luis as the No.6 with Mainoo given slightly more freedom as the No.8 would in my opinion because the perfect midfield.

Is see that roaming No.8 role as being perfect for Mainoo right now. He has the intelligence to know when to sit and when to push forward. While that freedom will also allow him to develop the defensive and offensive side of his game. I could see him having a similar career path in terms of playing position to Roy Keane, a box to box player in the early and mid-stages of his career, before becoming more of a holding player in the latter stages of his career.

I'm really looking forward to seeing how his career develops, the only thing I see that could hold him back are injuries. So the club have to be responsible with his game time and give him regular breaks and not over work him, especially while his body is still growing and developing.

 7


23 Mar 2024 17:17:22
Thanks as always Ed001. Shappy what about Florentino and Nevez? Florentino to sit and Mainoo plus Joao Nevez as 8.

 0


{Ed001's Note - very welcome.}

 0


23 Mar 2024 19:40:18
Mainoo, Florentino will likely cost 60-70m, while Joao Neves will be 90-120m. I really don't think the club will spend close to 200m on two midfielders this summer.

Joao Neves is a similar profile of midfielder to Mainoo. Why spend 90-120m on Neves when we have Mainoo already?

Florentino is the profile of player we need, he would be slightly on the expensive side, but if I'm honest I think he's the ideal player and the best available for that profile of player.

 4


21 Mar 2024 12:17:45
I know ETH is the hot topic at the minute, rightfully or wrongfully, but I read some interesting stats about his domestic cup performances I thought were worth sharing.

ETH is 16-2 in domestic cup competitions since joining, with a win rate of 89.5%. For comparison, Pep has a 82.4% win rate in domestic cups whilst Klopp is 67.4%.

We have the potential to reach our third domestic final out of four in 2 years if we beat Coventry. This is the same amount of domestic cup finals we have reached across all managers since Ferguson's retirement.

Its also worth noting that in 2024 ETH has a 75% win rate, having W9 / D1 / L2.

So I guess the question is, whether you like him or not, is the speculation about ETH justified?

 9


21 Mar 2024 12:51:26
We have lost 20 league matches in under 2 seasons under eth. More than any other manager since fergie.
We finished bottom of our cl group this session for 1st time.
Based on those numbers questioning him is justified as is replacing him
We are currently 6th in the league.
For every ying there is a yang.
Some want him to stay some don't there are arguments for both.
People in the know will make the decision either way I'll support that decision. I know what i'd prefer.

 6


21 Mar 2024 12:56:30
I saw the same thing Kurtis, and he had a very similar record at Ajax.

I nearly posted it yesterday before thinking it gives the doomsayers the opportunity to tell us that ETH is a cup manager.

I think the speculation is very unjust and the conversation has been done to death on here.

 4


21 Mar 2024 13:05:35
Ron Atkinson won 2 fa cups and lost a league cup final in 3 seasons. It was largely recognised that he was not the man to bring the club forward. He was replaced by fergie. Good call that.

 3


21 Mar 2024 13:17:53
The key there tumble is IN THREE SEASONS.

 5


21 Mar 2024 13:28:38
No DB the key is he was fired despite doing well in domestic cups. That's not the benchmark.

 0


21 Mar 2024 13:35:03
I think the primary driver for INEOS is to have a manager in place who is primarily a coach who can get the best out of all his players and happily know his place in the hierarchy - ie big decisions being left to the Sporting Director and getting the most out of the players that have, driven by data and analysis of how they fit into the long term plan and culture, been given to him.

Is ETH prepared to accept this new role - and does he have the personality to carry it out?

 0


21 Mar 2024 15:45:25
Wallace I don't see eth's time here as a total failure at all. There has been lots of good things imo.
But I don't see it even getting a whole lot better and I don't think he has what it takes to close the gap on our rivals no matter what the structure.
There are stats that are good but others that are damning so we can only base our opinions on our own gut feeling and we all need to realise our opinions are based on little or no intimate knowledge of the situation so there is no right or wrong.
Perhaps all the players really like working under him and maybe they are all really happy and can see great progress in training that some of us don't see on the pitch yet. Perhaps sjr and team really see a great future with eth at the helm and can see foundations he is laying down. They are based place to judge
Maybe eth is delighted with a new structure above him and less input into transfers and strategy but he might also find that a bridge too far.
I think everybody on here wanted a new structure with subject matter experts in key roles. Now that they are close to being in place everybody wants to tell them how to do their jobs. Who to sell who to sack who to buy who to keep.
I think we all need to trust in the judgement of the new team and give it a year or 2 to see if the decisions they make this summer can see us showing consistent improvement. If we are showing that then we will be in the right track. If not they will need to pivot.
We have the DOF we wanted a new ceo a new team around the DOF.
I'll be giving a chance for them to do their job and seeing how it goes.
We have what nearly everyone wanted
But it turns out it's not what people wanted at all because they only want what they want.

 1


21 Mar 2024 16:47:53
That’s really big of you Ken, prepared to give them a chance. Will mean a lot to them.

 10


21 Mar 2024 17:17:54
I'm glad you recognise that ports I think it's important to let them have time to implement their ideas before pushing judgement as a customer, after all they are the experts.

 0


21 Mar 2024 19:27:33
I look forward to hearing how your first performance review goes with them!

 4


21 Mar 2024 21:42:03
That will be confidential.

 1


21 Mar 2024 21:47:18
I think his performances in cups shows he is capable of setting up a team to win every match. But approach to cup games is different to league games. SAF had the same approach to any game. Saw an old clip yesterday recirculating where Neville interviews SAF and he talks about being a goal down and getting players in the box to score and risk being countered but the risk is worth the reward.

ETH showed on Sunday he is prepared to throw players on to get back in the game but you have to in a cup or you’re out. In the league it’s to easy to “not lose” first. Be braver, go for wins. You’d be best winning 3 out of 5 then winning 1, drawing 4.

 1


21 Mar 2024 23:29:42
Shrewd observation Ports.

But ironically, I think we’ve seen what happens now we’ve ditched the double pivot of McFred under OGS. Far too open, far too easily cut through and we concede for fun.

Think ETH has got a little confused this year on what we are supposed to be.

 0


22 Mar 2024 05:53:49
Think the midfield issue is caused by the back four, imo I think he wants a defence to be capable of playing ten / fifteen yards higher up the pitch which closes that midfield space straight away! Unfortunately he can’t with Evans Maguire lindelof etc as they’ll be exposed! He looks like he’s caught in the middle of it at the minute!

 2


22 Mar 2024 10:39:33
Eth has achieved what he has achieved with the worst assembled squad in most of our living histories.
Give him another season, if we are tracking in the right direction after Christmas, give him an extension. Eth is not the problem, it has been the squad, backroom staff etc etc etc.

In short, it isn't the manager. Both Klopp and pep would have struggled with our squad over the last few years.

Done to death, move on.

 5


22 Mar 2024 11:53:36
Speed of CBs, afraid to get caught.

When midfield push up, cbs too often than not don't push up with them. Leaves a lot of space in the middle.

You can see what ETH wants them to do, we just don't have the players to do it. You can see that, when martinez is there, it makes a massive difference.

And then, when there's that much space in behind, Casemiro looks worse than he actually is.

ETH is a good coach, but square pegs in round holes never work.

 3


22 Mar 2024 13:16:55
A valid point Angel, but on square pegs, it didn't hurt the Dutch 1970s team including Cruyff, who played. well, pretty much wherever he wanted by all accounts in a loose, more fluid 4-3-3 where the entire team were able to move around and fill the holes accordingly. Probably just great players all round although the midfield was constructed of three key players with specific roles - a tackler (Wim Jansen), runner (Johan Neeskens) and a passer (Willem van Hanegem) . Pep's Barcelona were similar.

 0


22 Mar 2024 14:11:56
Spenno, when you have the players, as you said above, you can then be more flexible. We do not have the personnel at the club to do what ETH wants.

However, give him the right amount of time and the correct resource, we will be able to.

 0


22 Mar 2024 15:48:10
You're right Angel, I jest. The thought of telling 3/ 4 of our squad to go out and play where they wanted fills me with terror.

 0


22 Mar 2024 20:05:28
Same here mate 😂.

 0


20 Mar 2024 12:16:11
I’ve read that perhaps the main blocker to keep ETH on as manager is the issue over how much control he’ll have over transfers (his current contract allows him significant input)

However, if new regime take these decisions out of his hands and just want him to coach, ETH might find this a bit undermining.

So guess what kind of contract INEOS offer him if they want him to stay.

Also read Rumours that, if he doesn’t get a significant say in issues and transfers, he’ll go back to Ajax - so might leave anyway.

 1


20 Mar 2024 14:23:47
I never heard that ETH had control of transfers at Ajax. He had Overmars and Van Der Sar above him. I don’t believe it was a factor in him leaving Ajax that he didn’t have control of transfers so we have to ask the question why did he want it at United? Quite possibly it was because previously United have shown to be very incompetent in that department and he wanted a greater hold on this. And I’m sure the usual lot will jump on this and point out his transfers but, it’s believed some of his 1st choice targets included Mazraoui, Timber, De Jong, Gakpo and Kane. All of whom as we know he didn’t get so to judge him on HIS signings maybe harsh. Either way, there is no suggestion that he wouldn’t be prepared to work under a more structured hierarchy apart from the current set up where he has most of the control on transfers but we don’t know the reason for this as previously he worked, successfully in a structured regime.

 3


20 Mar 2024 14:29:09
Nothing will happen before the end of the season I suspect.
Very few people know for sure what will happen.
Does eth have a lifeline? Is he even under pressure?
Have they made up their mind to change regardless of how the session finishes?
Will eth want to stay if they have a different structure?
It's a wait and see situation.
We all have our own hopes, expectations and fears about what's about to unfold this summer.
Should be good craic watching how it all unfolds.

 3


20 Mar 2024 15:36:57
I have to say the prospect of Southgate fills me with dread, he has the inspirational qualities of half a pound of sprouts, the players have thrown better than him under the bus. They will eat him alive.

His record as a premier league manager is 114 matches in charge and the grand total of 29 wins! 33 draws and 52 losses, 115 goals scored and 159 conceded. Average of 1.05 points per game.

ETH is 66 games in charge 38 won and 8 draws and 20 losses 95 goals for and 82 against. Average of 1.85 points per game.

I really hope ETH is still here next season, I feel he deserves the opportunity

IF, and obviously it's an unknown, this should come to pass all the optimism I have felt since SJR's deal was confirmed will instantly disappear and be replaced by a sense of foreboding I have never before felt in over 50 years as a supporter, and that also includes being in the Stretford End that day in 1974 against City when Denis Law backheeled the ball into the goal down at the Scoreboard End.

Please, please NO, NO, NO.

 6


20 Mar 2024 15:50:55
There is certainly a lot saying Eth will be replaced in the summer including ed002. I just don't see it. I don't think the fans are clamouring for it as they were on previous managers, I don't think there would be great justification for a sacking due to the amount of side issues eth has had to deal with and in fairness he has dealt with it well. Maybe ineos want to start on a blank sheet but the board is not yet even in place. I see him being here next year and maybe he deserves that.

 4


20 Mar 2024 16:53:32
How can you compare Southgates club management stats to ETH'S club management stats.
Southgate managed mid to lower Middlesborough team that had pretty much bang average players.
ETH has had the luxary of spending spent over 400 million pounds.
It's just nonsense comparing the two.
That's not to say i like the idea of Southgate getting the job, i think ETH deserves another season in my humble opinion.

 5


20 Mar 2024 17:46:59
I want our trophy back

I was in K stand in 1974, remember the feeling well, awful. Have to say I felt that terrible sense of dread when Moyes was appointed and again when Ole was made permanent. The club just seemed incompetent. If they appoint Southgate they will look incompetent again.

I am not getting younger and to be honest, if they give Southgate years I may not live to see another league title or European cup. As I sat in the stadium waving the red flag in 2013 I had a very strong sense it could be the last time in my life because I knew about Moyes, about how poor the team looked.

Let’s see what the new owners do but Southgate sends all the wrong messages and our rivals will start the laughter again

Wallace

Yes control over transfers is a sticky point. Can understand ETH wanting some control based on what he came into, but he has not done well at all. Mention the ubiquitous Antony but a lot of the players seem to have to have some connection, be directly or indirectly through the Dutch league. That cannot be allowed to continue.

Said for a long time, actually since SAF retired, move to a coach not the all powerful manager, have one direction under a DOF and stop this must give five years nonsense.

Personally I think ETH will leave, Ed has said so but new broom sweeps clean is an old saying and I suspect apt here.

 4


20 Mar 2024 20:06:05
Sim, how else do you make a rational and informed decision about such a significant and important decision without looking at previous achievements, or otherwise.

You say Southgate managed a mid to lower team, but the point is if someone is managing such a type of team then you get a much bigger job by being a success, not by being bang average. Many have started at that level, been successful and got a bigger job on the back of it, he did not. Let's not also forget he had an excellent owner in Steve Gibson who was supportive of his managers financially.

The point of making a comparison with ETH was to see how Southgate performed at a lower level against ETH performance at a much bigger club. Given the significant differences in achievement then how can any credibility be given to the idea Southgate offers a superior option to ETH.

The only other way of assessing Southgate is from his record as an International manager and that would not be of any real value as it bears no real similarity to club football and is nothing more than a false equivalency.

Again, your referencing of £400m does not equate, as cost comparison from 20 years ago makes it totally meaningless given inflation in football.

Your opinion that it is nonsense to compare the two records seems to me to be complete nonsense, as how else can can any assessment of suitability be made without any form of examination of the facts.

 1


20 Mar 2024 20:37:54
Red Man, you are quite right about the message this would send to other supporters. I am quite sure they would all be desperately keen to see Southgate appointed as our manager. That really say's everything that needs to be said.

I too have very vivid recall of that day in 1974, leaving the ground and returning to the coach, parked alongside the cricket ground, the journey back to North Wales in a virtually silent atmosphere. Then the next day returning to London for work on the Monday, knowing full well how my work colleagues would enjoy the moment!

Having said all that I still had huge positivity about the future, I was totally convinced we would return to Div 1 straight away and indeed everybody who tried to take the pi** I challenged to make a £5 bet we would go straight back up. I ended up making something like 35 or so bet's. That could of been of been quite awkward if thing's had been different!

The point about this being I felt more positive about the future following relegation than I would now with Southgate in charge. Like you I hope to see success again before it is too late and that includes seeing a new state of the art stadium. Just my view, but no Southgate and that is perfectly possible, feasible and likely.

 3


21 Mar 2024 12:57:28
I want our trophy back - You cannot compatre the two managers and the positions that they are and were in.
It's just stupid!

 2


21 Mar 2024 13:21:03
Sim, instead of just being insulting, try saying something sensible.
Of course you can compare people's previous achievements, they do not have to be concurrent.

 2


22 Mar 2024 11:56:46
agreed Ken.

No one knows. Andy Mitten and David Ornstein are probably the two most reputable journalists with their ears to the ground on all things united and they seem to think that SJR and INEOS are remaining very silent on the whether or not a new manager comes in.

I think they'll have a plan, but it all depends on how ETH finishes the season. With stronger players coming back and the run we have, I hope for a strong finish and ETH forces their hand.

My opinion, it would be a huge mistake to get rid of him. He will walk into a much more structured club and do very well. Whereas, should we remove him, there is absolutely no inspiring names that stick out.

 2


20 Mar 2024 10:50:14
There has been lots of conversations about whether ETH needs to be replaced in the summer, and whilst my opinion is he shouldn’t, I thought I would take some time to discuss a manager who I think could be a good candidate and may be very overlooked. Funnily enough, we are going to face his Coventry side in the FA cup semi-final.

Being from Coventry, its hard to not see and admire the Mark Robins effect. For those who aren’t aware, Coventry have been a club with more off-field drama than Manchester United. Over the last ten years, Coventry City has navigated a series of off-field issues, including financial struggles, relegations, points deductions, ownership disputes, and challenges related to their home ground. A notable issue has been the ongoing dispute over the previous Ricoh Arena, leading to ground-sharing arrangements, first with Northampton and later with Birmingham City. These situations have impacted the club's finances and relationships with fans.

Since 2017, Coventry City has experienced a remarkable ascent from League Two to the Championship. In the 2017-18 season, they secured promotion from League Two via the playoffs. The following season (2018-19), they stabilised in League One, finishing 8th. Their momentum continued into the 2019-20 season, winning League One and earning promotion to the Championship, where they have been competing since. Last year Coventry reached the play-off final, narrowly losing to Luton. This year they are back in the race for a play off place and have reached the FA cup semi-final, all with the second lowest wage budget in the league.

All of this, has been achieved with Mark Robins at the helm. He has proven himself as a skilled and adaptable manager capable of overcoming various challenges. Coventry will have been to Wembley four times since 2017. His tenure at Coventry, marked by a long-standing managerial partnership with Adi Viveash, showcases not only his tactical acumen but also his dedication to long-term development and he forges strong connections between the club, its players, and the fans. Coventry always lose key players, but almost always bounce back with their replacements playing fluid and attacking football as seen against Wolves. Whatever the situation, Mark Robins still manages to achieve success.

Given his Manchester United background, understanding of the club's ethos as an ex-player, and demonstrated managerial prowess at Coventry amidst ownership struggles and logistical challenges, Mark Robins for me presents an intriguing option for a managerial role at a larger club for a managerial role at a larger club, with the potential to bring a blend of tactical knowledge, resilience, and club identity understanding that could resonate well with Manchester United's aspirations and values. Its a wonder why he hasn't been approached by Premier League clubs already.

 3


20 Mar 2024 11:30:49
Interesting post and candidate Kurtis. I personally feel ETH should be given another season with the new management change coming. I know some disagree and Ed is convinced ETH will be replaced at the end of this season. The worrying thing for me is Southgate being considered, allegedly.

 5


20 Mar 2024 12:44:03
I quite like De Zerbi. I think he may get a top job soon enough.

 0


20 Mar 2024 13:54:54
Good post kurtis. indeed Robbins has done an amazing job at Coventry.
His next move if he makes one will be crucial. There are a lot of prem clubs that could do a lot worse.
Probably the best young English manager outside of howe who had a very similar rise through the league often under difficult circumstances.
It would be a big risk for united to take a chance on him but he is possibly one to watch for the future. I'd love to see him get Coventry up it would be a real fairy tale story.

 1


20 Mar 2024 13:58:07
I like de Zerbi but not overly convinced a top team would take him. For every incredible result and top performance they put in, a stinker is just round the corner with some pretty awful results this season. Probably the result of Brighton playing in Europe and the lack of depth, as often happens when clubs have a blinding season then find themselves in with the big boys. Maybe I'm completely wrong on him though.

 2


20 Mar 2024 14:07:59
I think eth should be given time and backed properly with a summer window. He was never given a Ferrari to start with and takes time to build a great team. We have seen glimpses of what he can do but injuries and player related issues have made his job very difficult this year. The fact that they are talking about everything but nothing on backing him publicly is not a good sign.

Unfortunately, its Southgate the more I think about it given his relationship with the new ownership and DOF and also being available contract wise.

 0


20 Mar 2024 16:11:02
Southgate? Lol. West Ham maybe.

 0


20 Mar 2024 17:57:18
Robins has a lot of qualities, been watching him for a while, sensible when talking, smart tactically. If he doesn’t get Coventry up, somewhere who stayed up in the Prem could or should consider him.

For our job, if ETH goes, I would still like Simeone to be considered.

 0


20 Mar 2024 18:56:32
Redman

The likes of Simeone and Zidane would never take a united job if they don't have a major say in who comes in and who goes. Simeone at Athletico it is his way or the highway and he would never come, no chance.

They are too established to be playing second and why do it at this point in their careers. These are guys who will dictate terms if you want to get them and not the other way round especially given the managerial vacancies coming up.

 0


21 Mar 2024 12:37:17
Simeone has to be up there with some of the worst shouts. His sides play mind numbing football I would rather take Mourinho back.

 1


20 Mar 2024 10:27:16
In regards to the Southgate rumours. I am not entirely surprised by this. He is out of contract after the tournament and would cost the club nothing in compensation. So, cheap.

He also is a YES man, someone who is perfect for the team that's being built above him. United want a coach, not a traditional manager. Someone who will not interfere with transfers or go against the club.

He gets on very well with the English players at United, for example Rashford, would probably see a fresh and new Rashford under Southgate. Or possibly anyone other than EtH. But there are reasons for someone like Southgate.

Rightly or wrongly he is a good choice for the new board.

 0


20 Mar 2024 10:38:46
Southgate didn't get the England job off the back of what he achieved at Club Management, he's not managed a club since 2009, 15 years ago. They finshed 12th, 13th and then relegated during his time with Middlesbrough. Giving him the Managers job of arguably 1 of the top 5 clubs in the World and everything that comes with it would a strange and very risky choice IMO.

 4


20 Mar 2024 10:41:55
Rumours also do Southgate a favour if he is trying to secure a new England contract before the tournament.

 1


20 Mar 2024 11:05:08
Ports, I agree, he is not my choice, not top ten. However the club will want a coach. Someone to coach the players and that is essentially what he is at international level. He doesn't have to deal with transfers, he simply picks the team. The board will control scouting, transfers and the daily running of the club. The next United manager will be a coach. They will have little to no impact on decision making of incoming players.

 1


20 Mar 2024 11:32:31
Good posts Ports and Sydney.

 1


20 Mar 2024 12:15:55
Agree on the point that the next boss will be more of a coach. But maybe it’s me, I don’t see what evidence there is that’s Southgate is a good coach?

He only sees the England players for about a week every few months, not enough time to coach them really.

He’s a very good man manager from what I can tell, but not so sure on his coaching abilities.

 2


20 Mar 2024 12:48:25
Fallguy, that's exactly why I don't think Southgate is the answer. For me it is Moyes all over again. If we make an underwhelming appointment, that would put huge pressure on the club and manager instantly. If it is to be a coach and it is obviously looking that way with the board appointments, then it needs to be someone young and exciting. Good speaking to the media. A bit no nonsense too. De Zerbi looks a good shout, but I don't know enough about him.

 0




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