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Ports's rumours posts with other poster's replies to Ports's rumours posts
10 Aug 2025 16:32:18
Currently in Turkey, and on their sports channel they’ve just reported Besiktas will look at Sancho as an alternative to Lauriente? Plays in France I think.
Not sure if any of that has been spoken about in England yet and not sure if Sancho would be interested but be good if we can move him on ASAP.
1.) 10 Aug 2025 20:22:53
What's he worth let's be honest!?, no commitment, no pride, no drive and turns it on now and again!, a spoiled egotistical brat!, be embarrassed if my child showed as little interest from such a privileged position, massive queues for his signature not!, needs grow a pair!, I'd take a tenner for him and put it down to a very bad purchase to be honest.
2.) 10 Aug 2025 21:33:28
Got no self respect. doesn't seem to love the game. downhill for him now probably be in America in 3 years.
3.) 10 Aug 2025 21:39:52
I have the feeling the Sancho situation will run towards the end of August and he will end up back at Dortmund. Whether as full sale or one more loan!
30 May 2025 08:32:17
Morning. Although it feels a bit disappointing that Delap has chosen Chelsea. Being one to try and look at the glass being half full when it comes to the football side, I think this season we will finally be getting players who WANT to play for United. This is something I don’t think we’ve had since SAF left bar a few individuals. Cunha is a great example of this, it was only United and I love that. We need players who want to represent the club if we are going to move forward.
With Delap gone, Arsenal appearing to be in for Sesko I do wonder whether Gyokeres is an option although you’d think he’d end up at a Champions League side. I wonder if Ramos from PSG is an option and for some reason, I feel like an outside option is Kane. He’s won his title but I’ve read his family aren’t happy in Germany. The idea of coming back and beating Shearer’s record must be tempting for him. I’m not sure this is a move we should rule out.
1.) 30 May 2025 10:04:00
I am with you Ports as a bit of an optimist when it comes to or club (wrongly recently) . Delap for me would have been great if we had an existing striker numner 1 in and we wanted to split the playing time, allow to challenge and bring in as a number 2.
He felt a bit like Rooney when we brought him in. but we had Berbatov/ Tevez so they could give him time to bed in (not that he needed much)
At the minute we need a ready made number 1, does not need to be a huge name even though I would love an Osihmen/ Gyorkeres. If not them then a player who has been number 1 striker somewhere and scored.
Chelsea - Delap in and looks like they want another which could be Gyorkeres/ Ekitike
Arsenal - Seems split on manager/ sporting director but expect one of Gyorkeres/ Sesko
Newcastle - sorted with Isak
Liverpool - dark horses to get one of the big options but could look at Ekitike
We could be left on the outside looking at the best of the rest. reality of where we are but think with no Europe we can improve our position as a whole team with improvements in all 3 of the attacking positions.
2.) 30 May 2025 10:42:27
I really hope we can bring in a very good if not great striker who can instil a bit of that fear factor again, a player who's a handful and the opposition CBs dread facing. Doesn't feel like we've had that for a long time.
If Arsenal do get Sesko then maybe the Gyokeres move still has some legs in it. It wouldn't be the first time we'd managed to sign a very good player without the lure of European football to offer (despite what went on to follow, Pogba signed in an 'off' season) . Selling the dream of starting this new chapter and aiming for the Europa spots (I assume) won't appeal to the elite players but we're not in for those, the ones a rung below might be up for the challenge though?
3.) 30 May 2025 12:40:38
Getting a top class striker will be difficult in this market of limited options and with so much competition for them. Especially from teams that can offer European football and realistic chances of winning major silverware.
We will almost certainly end up shopping for a striker who is either unproven or that next bracket down from elite.
I still maintain that I'd be doing everything we can to get Jonathan David across the line. He might be in that next bracket down from elite, but he is miles ahead of our current options and for free it is surely a no brainer. Then we can afford to maybe look for a young talented striker with potential who can rotate around with David.
I'd also be pushing really hard for Mbeumo to join alongside Cunha to make sure we've added more goals across the front three so we are less reliant on the strikers to get all the goals.
4.) 30 May 2025 15:55:51
I have to say I'm not 1 but Sissons in not getting delap.
Obviously he has good potential but too far from the finished article to lead the line imo at united given where we are.
He might be the next shearer but might also be the next rasmus.
5.) 30 May 2025 17:04:58
I'm not bothered about a player choosing not to come here.
I'm more bothered about or ability to pick the right player. Then it's down to the player to want to come here. Delap wanted to go elsewhere, I'm okay with that.
I'm hoping mbeumo joins, a really good premiership player coming into the prime of his career.
6.) 30 May 2025 17:41:12
#Brad76
Did I misunderstand your comment, or you said we bought Rooney while already having Berbatov and Tevez?
7.) 30 May 2025 18:26:44
Would anyone go for Wissa? Knows the league, had a great season, if we go for Mbeumo too, they already form a great partnership, and it would not block potential younger strikers.
8.) 30 May 2025 18:33:24
Delap choosing Chelsea is a blessing in disguise. The board will be forced to reach a little deeper into their pockets for a Gyokores / Osimhen-style player. I expect it will mean the end of Bruno, although if the plan was to play him in a deeper position next season, that might not be such a bad thing. The £150m he’ll bring in will cover the Cunha fee, a striker, and a new keeper.
{Ed077's Note - I was never a big fan of the whole Delap idea so I'm happy he's going to Chelsea instead
9.) 30 May 2025 23:03:06
With you Ed. We need to buy goals now. Delap doesn’t guarantee this.
10.) 31 May 2025 08:30:15
Brad. I'm not sure you have your signings in the right order??.
11.) 31 May 2025 08:31:11
Redseven 150m no chance.
12.) 31 May 2025 11:22:32
Ken - He’s worth two Dhurans. He’s their statement signing. Maybe they won’t go all the way to £150m, but I expect they’ll go close if we hold our nerve. Worst case scenario Bruno stays.
13.) 02 Jun 2025 03:33:01
I won't comment on the striker options other than to say you should ignore the "potential" and go for players who want to to play for you and have the right character. Get that sorted first. Pretty much what Klopp did when he first started at LFC. People laughed when he signed Milner but he paid it back in spades just in the way he changed the dressing room culture.
Mind you I think you missed the boat by not going for Kelleher as GK. Already an upgrade on Onana (not that that would be hard) and wouldve been cheap (and home grown) . He is only going to get better imho and you prob wouldve had that position sorted for the next 6 years or at least until you had the money to afford an elite GK.
09 Aug 2024 16:59:26
Currently in Turkey and talk of United speaking with Fenerbache for Ferdi kadioglu.
1.) 09 Aug 2024 19:03:13
Are you getting the hair or teeth done ports?
2.) 09 Aug 2024 19:30:57
Gone for the Jurgen Klopp smile option!
3.) 09 Aug 2024 19:59:09
I didn't know Turkey did hair as well as teeth.
4.) 10 Aug 2024 00:40:57
Oak bark, they do all plastic surgery too. Can get yourself a new hairline and the missus a BBL at the same time ?.
5.) 10 Aug 2024 08:55:15
Just make sure you have a good Turkish translator with you when you go to the surgery, tick the wrong box and you'll get yourself a pair of double D's instead of a new fringe or a set of pearly whites ??.
29 Jul 2024 09:26:43
Ed, sounds like PSG are keen on Sancho. Just out of interest, would it be better for both clubs to do the Sancho and Ugarte transfers as separate deals or, if possible tie them both into 1 deal? I know it’s a lot more complicated but for me, the simplistic answer for them would be that Sancho is valued at £50M, they want £70M for Ugarte so £20M plus Sancho and get deal done (I’m just using numbers from reports) . Or for financial purposes would both deals need to be done separately. I guess there is an agent fee that may complicate it further?!
{Ed002's Note - PSG are not going to pay £50M for Sancho. Don't worry about the structure of any transfer as they are recorded separately on the TMS.}
1.) 29 Jul 2024 10:05:54
There certainly sounds like a deal can be done for both players. I'd imagine a comprise on both sides will be required.
2.) 29 Jul 2024 13:10:13
Ignoring money I definitely feel like there will be some movement with incoming/ outgoing shortly.
Ugarte feels like it is waiting for the Neves deal to progress and if an agreeable price can be met for both Ugarte and Sancho it is possible the deals happen at the same time with us topping up with some cash.
Mazraoui from Bayern feels similar if we can agree a deal with West Ham for AWB then that deal could go through smoothly.
Hopefully we are continuing discussions for De Ligt, as we saw from the Arsenal game we need to make sure we are covered and a main 3 of De Ligt, Yoro and Martines would give us this.
3.) 29 Jul 2024 14:27:58
PSG aren’t paying much more than that for Neves. Would rather we just went for him instead.
4.) 29 Jul 2024 16:34:02
Redseven,
He’s a similar player to Mainoo though and we need a Casemiro replacement, perhaps buying players we need rather than fancy names is the way to go?
5.) 29 Jul 2024 16:39:25
Rarely does a club actively looking to sell one of their players ever get the asking price.
If we are trying to sell Sancho for 40m, we'll be lucky to get 35m.
Likewise, PSG might want 70m, but they will be lucky to get 55m.
No one will match, let alone pay more for the player than what they paid last summer. Especially given that PSG are looking for a sale.
We are just seeing the media posturing that takes place in the build up to most transfers.
6.) 29 Jul 2024 20:29:18
Gds2. I've seen a lot of talk about him but never really seen him play. I can say the same about ugarte to be honest.
But the psg deal for neves seems all but done so as you say a player of ugarte's profile is more akin to what we need to compliment the likes of mainoo Bruno and mount.
Midfield looks very short on depth if any of cas ericksen or mctom were to depart without another coming in alongside ugarte. Interesting to see if we can get 2 in.
18 Jul 2024 21:58:37
Personal terms agreed for Ugarte. What is happening to this club!
1.) 18 Jul 2024 22:11:03
It's like Glazers are not running the club anymore :D.
2.) 18 Jul 2024 22:15:55
Club now being run by competent people who form a dynamic, agile and proactive structure.
imagine where the club will be in a few years time if this professional approach is maintained - and reflect upon the previous incompetence and wasted years previously. We're now finally acting like other well-run clubs such as Liverpool and Man City.
still SO much to do to rectify the mess the club has become but a really good start to the window.
3.) 18 Jul 2024 22:20:33
If we pull this one off too, that would be 3/ 3 so far for me in terms of acumen and identification.
4.) 19 Jul 2024 08:51:54
We certainly seem more ruthless and clinical don't we. Would just temper the expectations of Zirkzee Yoro and (potentially) Ugarte. I haven't seen evidence they are necessarily starting quality for us. Not trying to be negative about them, as I'm pleased to have them at the club; but I'm not getting carried away.
5.) 19 Jul 2024 11:04:04
Absolutely love to see it. I don't expect every signing to work out perfectly, no club gets it right every time no matter how well run they are.
Yet the difference between this summer and the past decade is absolutely night and day.
They have assessed what the team needs most, scouted, shortlisted suitable targets and have just gone about getting them done quickly and efficiently.
We will still over pay on a few targets (everybody does), and we will still pay more than most other clubs (impossible not to when you are one of the biggest clubs in the world) .
Most signings will work out, but some will not. That is always going to be the case when dealing with individuals. You can scout talent, you can select players with skill sets you need, you can even background check players to see what kind of person they are.
Yet how they fit in with the other players in the squad, how they adapt to that new environment (possibly a new country), how their loved ones who move with them adapt, and how they blend with the current players are all things you cannot predict. Those are the reasons players should be failing. Not because they don't have the right skill set or are not at the required level.
That is something that excites me most about our signings so far. They all seem to have the right skill set for what we need and have either shown themselves to be at the required level or have the potential to get to that level.
Zirkzee has shown himself to be a great player in Serie A, won the young player of the year award and been a key player for an exciting Bologna side. He has a complimentary skill set to Højlund, offering something different. His style of play should work well in creating space and chances for a forward line that has shown itself capable of scoring goals, but lacking in creating chances.
Leny Yoro is a phenomenal talent, someone whose skills seem very well suited to playing alongside Martinez. He's a mobile, athletic, sweeper who can clean up behind the more aggressive, front footed Martinez. He is also comfortable with the ball at his feet and can build up from the back. He's a good replacement for Varane who made a great partnership with Martinez when both were fit and playing. Obviously with a young player there are concerns over his ability to adapt to a more physically demanding league. He might take time to adapt and he will make mistakes as he learns. But the talent is there, it's now down to the player and the club to develop him into the player his talent suggests he can be.
Manuel Ugarte looks like he'll be the next through the door. Terms reportedly agreed, the player opens to the move, and PSG open to a sale. He looks every inch the kind of combative, ground covering, ball winning midfielder we need to pair alongside Mainoo to give him licence to focus on progressing the ball. His passing isn't expansive, but his safe controlled passing is what we probably need alongside a young player who will be looking to progress the ball forward and Bruno whose preset pass is an aggressive, high risk forward pass. He could be an excellent deal, especially if it's a loan with an option/ obligation to buy in a years time. Off-setting expenditure this summer when funds seem tight.
All three signings seem well suited to improve the team and add skills we need to become a better side. Hopefully all three settle quickly and adapt to the club, country, and the league.
While being decisive in making sensible signings the club have also been quick to move players out.
With Greenwood finally leaving and drawing a line under a very unfavorable period at the club, making it 10 departures already (Greenwood, Varane, Martial, Donny, Alvaro Fernandez, Kambwala, Shoretire, Forson, Williams and Amrabat) .
While they continue to discuss possible departures of players like Sancho, Casemiro, McTominay, AWB, Lindelof, Eriksen, Hannibal and Pellistri. These players are the ones who are likely to bring in fees to bolster the transfer budget and enable more signings.
I expect to see us continue our pursuit of Branthwaite, who would provide cover for Martinez and looks a good potential fit alongside Yoro in the long term. We will over pay for him, but that is always the case when signing homegrown players.
We are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Adrien Rabiot, who on a short term (3 year) deal could offer us some quality and experience for a minimal cost. He isn't a perfect signing, but he would represent good business I think. Whether a deal happens or not remains to be seen.
While signing a player like Rabiot on a free might free up funds to make the signings of Branthwaite and possibly a new fullback if AWB departs to West Ham or somewhere else. Although I've heard that we have spoken with Bayern about Sascha Boey on a loan with an obligation/ option to buy. We have reportedly looked at a few options like that, both in terms of players we could sign and players we are struggling to sell (Sancho) .
It's so refreshing to see our club actually being well run, with a plan, and with experts pulling the strings. While we won't be back challenging for major honours this season, if this approach continues and even improves further then it will only be a matter of time before we get back to the top.
6.) 19 Jul 2024 18:19:00
Agree with all the points.
Only caveat is no one signed is EPL proven.
It could take a season to come together.
7.) 19 Jul 2024 23:44:42
ThaT os The THing THough, these signing s aren't for mext year. They are picking players they think will developing players who will be part of a title challenge in 3 to 5 years and going forward.
I expect us to to develop each year, and these. Players to improve.
Now I do think each is am upgrade, Zirkzee better than any of our options to spell Hojlund. Yoro better than what happened last year to us at CB, Ugarte is not a significant upgrade in fairness. But I also understand their will be growing pains, they will make mistakes they are developing and learning. I can live with that as long as we are developing as a whole.
I am not excited next season because I think we will challenge or these lads are the finished article, I am excited because I think these lads could be one day and will grow into the players we need with some luck.
I think there are youth players coming through that will make it too, Amass I eel very confident about. So much so I would ignore left back and focus elsewhere, he is very young but is good enough that I think we have to avoid blocking his pathway with a new signing. Lacey too I think will make it, but unlike LB we don't really have anyone currently playing at a high enough level. Garnacho could develop into that player on the right, Diallo I am less sure of.
8.) 20 Jul 2024 10:40:42
Oakbark, I think we are on the same page. I'm excited to see the shoots of growth this season, not because I think we will genuinely challenge for major titles. That said I think we should focus on the Europa League as I think we have a good chance of winning it. EtH has shown he is good at winning in the cups, with three finals in two years. While there is no UCL drop down into the Europa league this season, meaning who is in it to start with is the only competition we will have. I think we are one of the stronger teams in the competition, with a winning manager and a history and pedigree of winning.
Personally I'd focus more on that competition as winning it means UCL qualification, while it would also improve our UEFA coefficient meaning we would be less likely to draw a tougher UCL group then following season.
I'd play the kids and squad players in the domestic cups. With our main focus being the league and the Europa League.
Yoro and Zirkzee in theory improve us, although until they play in the EPL you never know how they will adapt. Yet the real benefit of them is as you say the potential they have, and the players they could become.
I actually think Ugarte would be a big improvement, finally having a tenacious, aggressive, high energy, ball winner in midfield who'll pair nicely with Mainoo. Giving Mainoo more licence to progress the ball forward, which is his best quality.
I'm hopeful that Amad can get more game time, he looked promising every time he played last season. He probably should have got more minutes.
While if Mount can stay fit he'll be like a new signing.
I agree with Amass, he looks like he could become a top level player. Defensively he still has a lot to learn, but a real threat going forward. If we do sign Branthwaite, then I could see either Branthwaite or Martinez covering LB with them either staying deep or dropping into midfield rather than bombing down the wing. That would give us more options on the left, along with Shaw and Malacia hopefully staying fit.
I'd certainly be more inclined to sign a RB to compete with Dalot and allow AWB to move on. As our options on the right are far more limited. Maybe Yoro could play there in a pinch, which might be good for him as he adapts to the EPL. Other than that the options seem very limited, with no one in the academy who looks ready to push for the first team squad. Unless there is a change of position for one of the midfielders like McAllister for example. That sometimes happens with academy players, moving into a different position when stepping into the first team. Although we can't count on that.
9.) 20 Jul 2024 15:32:34
Utd Road, while I personally prefer to see us sign players from within the EPL as they tend to be successful more often and adapt quicker, the reality is that there are many players who have moved to the EPL and hit the ground running.
If they are well scouted, and well suited to fulfill a specific role in the team they are moving too then they tend to work out fairly quickly.
We'll see with Zirkzee and Yoro. Personally I think Zirkzee will adapt quickly, being Dutch he shouldn't have any issues understanding what the coaching staff want him to do, and he seems fairly well suited to both the EPL, and to be the link man in the forward line who makes space and creates chances for those around him.
I expect he'll quickly become first choice, with Højlund being an option off the bench, or possibly playing some games from the right hand side.
Yoro I think might take a little longer to settle and will make a few more mistakes. If he learns quickly from them then he'll be fine.
10.) 21 Jul 2024 08:15:44
We need another right back ??.
11.) 21 Jul 2024 10:42:09
Fireman, it's an awkward situation as with Shaw's and Malacia's continued injury issues there is a fair arguement that we need a consistent and regularly available LB.
However, assuming everyone is fit we have Shaw, Malacia, Martinez, Dalot and Amass who can play at LB.
Whereas, we only really have Dalot and AWB who can play at RB.
If the club looks to sign a second CB, if they get a left footed player who can play LCB and possibly LB then I think that should be fine. Then we can look at a RB as a higher priority.
Ideally it would be best if we can delay trying to bring in another LB for a season or two. That would give us time to see how Malacia fairs and give time for Amass to develop. If they don't step up or are enough then we could look at bringing in a top young LB.
I do worry though what we would do next season if Dalot misses a big chunk of the season.
Ports's banter posts with other poster's replies to Ports's banter posts
04 Jun 2026 18:52:00
Question really aimed at the people who are not convinced by Carrick but for all to answer.
What does Michael Carrick need to do to fully win you over as manager? And if United were to win the league playing a pragmatic, results-first style similar to Arsenal's title-winning approach, would you be satisfied with that, or is the style of football more important than the success? I'm just wondering what the line is for whether he is viewed as the correct decision for fans?
1.) 04 Jun 2026 19:14:59
Ports, imo, he has to keep doing what he has been doing. Winning football matches and improving players.
He is on a very steep learning curve. He has done as well as he possibly could have up to now, imo. With the players he has had at his disposal.
He has earned his opportunity.
I honestly think it could go either way for him. He will have an improved squad to work with.
He has had the media behind him so far; how he will cope with the bumps in the road ahead is unknown.
I think we will know after a dozen games next season in the league what our style of play is and will be.
We were counter attacking a lot, but it can be argued that suited the players we had.
With better midfielders available, that will change, I'm sure.
We were nothing like Arsenal, and we played some good stuff in games at times.
I'm not sitting on the fence; I'm 100% behind him and 100% hopeful. I'm just not overconfident.
He has lots to prove, and will have many questions to answer as games go by. All I do know is that he has answered every question put to him so far.
I like to go on what we do know and not what we don't; that's always a good place to start. We do know nobody won more points than United over the last 16 games. I think only 2 teams scored more goals. There is not much to complain about there.
Iraola will be who he will be judged against for many, as some believe he might have been available to United.
I'm looking forward to seeing how the season unfolds. I think it will be more open than ever.
2.) 04 Jun 2026 19:16:29
I want to see a clear and more dominant style of play. I want to see how he reacts in difficult situations, because that's the criteria sometimes. Until now, he has not had a crisis, and all was good. That, and results, need to continue being good. I think the style of play is more important than results, because if you play well, with clear patterns, results will follow anyway.
On the other hand, even if results are good, without playing good football, the form will fade sometime.
I don't think we can make an Arsenal anyway, we don't have the structure or the base. We don't have Rice, Maggalaes or Saliba.
3.) 04 Jun 2026 20:27:30
He has to show some evidence that his management and coaching results in positive impacts on the pitch.
My main issue is that our best football, under Carrick, was played during his first month in charge. Yes, we must give him credit for picking the right players and allowing them play with freedom. He did everything right to get the squad back to playing their best post-Amorim.
However, the true test of a manager's worth is measured by longer term improvements. Carrick hasn't shown this.
As the season progressed, the level of performances didn't really improve, even if the results were, broadly, good.
Particularly with attacking play, there wasn't much evidence of Carrick's impact. It often felt like the primary strategy was to give the ball to Bruno and hope that he creates something. In games when this wasn't working (Leeds and Sunderland, for example), there didn't appear to be any plan B, and, in general, Carrick seems slow to react when the opposition is controlling things.
4.) 04 Jun 2026 23:29:18
I think who he signs will be the biggest factor in determining how he does. If he gets a centre back, another midfielder and a centre forward, all of his choice and of high quality, he has a good chance to succeed.
He was a top player and I believe he wants to play attacking, flowing football, replicating the Fergie years.
He knows the supporters don't want boring football. I will forgive his relative lack of managerial experience and some bad results if I can see a clear plan which looks like it will bring long term results. We have to back him and give him the confidence to succeed.
5.) 05 Jun 2026 07:02:34
1. Clear style that is modern in approach, that brings good, winning, controlling, attacking, attractive football. Counter attack is not good enough. 2. Must demonstrate greater tactical sense, more dominant approach. Better use of width. Better control of midfield.
3. Better integration of youth. His handling of Heaven was very poor last year. Even in the last couple of games, he didn't really give any chances to youth.
4. Improved in-game management. His substitutions were not well timed and lacked verve at times. He seemed indecisive to change things tactically at times.
5. Finish no lower than third, must challenge the top two properly.
6. Win something.
Maybe I can then concede he should get a second season. I hope he does all the above because, whilst I feel he was the wrong choice, I want him to succeed, because the club succeeds.
6.) 05 Jun 2026 07:35:42
Win s***.
7.) 05 Jun 2026 08:12:59
1. Performances that match the results we have had - there has been too much luck for me so far.
2. Evidence of a plan B - in the games where we stuttered, Carrick was too slow and lacked invention to change the game.
8.) 05 Jun 2026 08:19:06
Wow, Red Man, I take that as you saying you've decided that Carrick shouldn't have the job and will not be changing that view.
I'd argue maybe only Pep achieved those 6 things last season, and even then there's a question mark over his use of youth players. Arteta (who I can't stand) won the league and only ticks a couple of those things off the list.
For what it's worth, I think we have to accept that there will be bumps in the road.
Qualifying for the Champions League again, good cup runs, and actually looking like a team that understands what Manchester United is actually about will be enough for me next season. Ideally, winning something is the aim, but realistically there are only 4 competitions and I think we all agree that there are teams in a much better condition than we are at the moment.
9.) 05 Jun 2026 10:09:42
Having a good start is crucial, not only for team confidence, but also for his own. If not, then the snipers will start shooting, the back stabbers will be out, ie the press/media are in waiting to slaughter him.
Results are the main factor, style will come with confidence, and to be up and ready is a must.
For him to have a chance, then this transfer window is huge. We need a much deeper squad, we need players stepping up, and if not in the team, then knocking and really pushing to be in the team.
If we have that good start and there becomes a buzz around how we do, then it could be a very good season for Carrick and the fans. A poor, slow start and we maybe start talking about what could and should have been, and the 'I told you so' gang will be in full swing.
10.) 05 Jun 2026 10:32:37
I think we need to see a team that plays well. We've seen it in patches, but we've also seen some very poor performances, despite the good results. Carrick apparently wants to play fast attacking football, which would be good to see.
He keeps finding ways to win, which is always useful. I'm hoping he uses more players next season as the squad is strengthened, and we have more games to manage.
I'd also like to see a bit more oomph from Carrick. I welcome the calmness and lack of drama, but he needs to get passionate sometimes.
We need to solidify what we achieved this year, whilst going further in the cup competitions, and we need to not lose to Grimsby.
11.) 05 Jun 2026 10:39:48
AA80,
What has changed, apart from his appointment, since I said clearly that I didn't believe Carrick had the qualifications to be United manager?
The OP question was, what would convince me, and I set that out. This is Manchester United. Why would I say 5th is ok? That answer would only be if I was previously comfortable with an ex player being put in charge because he was an ex player.
He has to show he is of the calibre to be the man, for example people said 2nd wasn't good enough for Jose. Carrick has it all to prove, hope he does but suspect it will be difficult given his experience. We shall see.
12.) 05 Jun 2026 12:59:19
All he has to do is get them playing like they did against the Bertie's at home. Simple.
13.) 05 Jun 2026 15:18:36
I've been very critical of Arsenal this season when it comes to the way they play, but ultimately, they won the league and made it to the Champions League final, in which they narrowly missed out on the trophy. I'm going to go ahead and assume that most of their fans are happy.
In an ideal world, we'd win trophies playing attractive football, but if we win a few playing Arsenal-style anti-football, I'm sure most of us (including myself) wouldn't be complaining, assuming the plan was to transition into a less pragmatic style over the next few windows.
The issue comes if we play terrible football and still win nothing.
14.) 05 Jun 2026 17:02:58
Win the treble.
15.) 05 Jun 2026 18:01:10
Redman: "Shoot cannon balls from his arse and lasers from his eye balls. Maybe then I will consider giving him a second season."
Tough man to please.
16.) 06 Jun 2026 00:31:07
Why did you not have any of that criteria for Amorim, Redman?
17.) 06 Jun 2026 07:23:42
Ken,
Amorim already had a CV that showed he could do it.
18.) 06 Jun 2026 08:46:54
In Portugal.
Translated well.
19.) 06 Jun 2026 09:08:38
Red Man, this is the reason I asked the question. Some of your points are developmental objectives and some are achievement objectives. You're effectively saying, "Develop the team for the future while simultaneously delivering elite present-day results." This is a pretty tough expectation.
Attractive, controlling, attacking football vs "Win something" and "Finish no lower than third." If Carrick finishes third and wins a cup through a more pragmatic approach, would that count as success? Your criteria suggest no. If he plays excellent football but finishes fourth, that also seems to fail.
"Better integration of youth" vs. "Finish no lower than third." The safest route to a top-three finish is normally relying on experienced players. You're essentially asking for, More youth minutes.
More attacking football. Better results than last season. Those can coexist, but each objective makes the others harder.
So my question is this, Red Man, Choice 1 - Carrick wins the League and FA Cup playing Maguire and Martinez all season and setting up to have less possession than the opposition or Choice 2, we set up with Heaven and Yoro, we dominate possession and are enjoyable to watch and finish 4th but have no cup. Which are you chosen for the first season that would make you accept a 2nd season for Carrick? Because, personally, I'm not sure all your criteria can be achieved in his first season. I appreciate and agree a bit with substitutions and at times in game management could be improved, but then those two areas will also determine the above outcomes.
20.) 06 Jun 2026 09:11:50
Also, you say better integration of youth. Mainoo didn't start a game in the league this season until Carrick became manager, so your criticism of that area is slightly misjudged.
21.) 06 Jun 2026 09:30:54
Ports,
Mainoo is hardly "youth", is he?
22.) 06 Jun 2026 09:42:52
Ports
Let's see what happens. I am there to be convinced, but failing at Championship Boro means he has an awful lot to prove. There will be objectives set for him by Berrada and co, against which he will be assessed. If you understand management, then you will know they will not, nor should they be easy. Those were my thoughts above & let's see how he gets on. I hope he succeeds in all, but suspect he won't. I don't get to make the judgement on his continuation, but I have my expectations of him and the club.
Not long ago, people were on here saying getting second wasn't good enough. Now it looks like 4th would be ok. The reason can only be because of who Carrick is, the 'one of our own' nonsense. That's setting him up to be satisfactory in failure. Like I said, that is how I feel and see how he performs. I want us to win everything, but Carrick has no history. He has been appointed, so there is nothing much to say other than wait and see.
23.) 06 Jun 2026 11:21:22
If you understand management, then you'll also know objectives need to be realistic and achievable, based off your start point, the resources you have, and a set timeframe.
24.) 06 Jun 2026 13:43:58
Ports,
Held senior management positions, and you have to be naive if you think all objectives are realistic or sometimes even achievable. Timeframe is relevant, I agree. But, whilst I am not setting Carrick's, is it not true the club have the clear objective to win the league in 2028? In order to do that, Carrick has to get us to the challenger point at the end of this next season, with a view to win it the season after.
No point in giving soft objectives in that case, is there?
25.) 06 Jun 2026 15:07:14
But that's the point, Red Man. We may win the league next season or the following. But will we win it the way you, and, to be fair, the majority of fans, want to win it, or will we win it the "Arsenal" way. But that way doesn't satisfy your point 1.
For what it's worth, everything you've said, I would love to happen, as I am sure the majority of fans would, but there has to be a realistic approach to what can and can't be achieved here in the short term.
Which is why I asked the question originally about what Carrick needs to do to convince people he's the right guy. Maybe I should have followed that up with to meet the club's objective of winning the league in 2028.
27 May 2026 16:27:25
Barcelona apparently close to signing Gordon yet they won’t stump up the very fair price for Rashford who I think is a better player. I don’t know what this means for Rashford, I don’t know what he thinks of the whole thing.
Potentially they’ll look to sign both but that would surprise me. I really hope there is another club prepared to make a bid for him.
Just out of interest, who does everyone think we’ll sign for midfield?! .?
1.) 27 May 2026 17:32:38
If they can afford Gordon, then imo he is a much better buy and a much better player than Rashford.
Watching them celebrate, Rashford was like a lost soul wandering around on his own most of the time.
Let's hope they want both of them. If they do, will Rashford sign knowing he'll be on the bench even more than he was this year? He probably would sign for them anyway, I'm not sure he is that bothered if he doesn't play much.
They can flip him on in Jan or next summer for a profit.
Maybe we can twist someone else's arm, maybe Villa will take him.
Just 1 more conundrum for the club.
2.) 27 May 2026 18:04:35
For someone on the bench like you, insinuating he got enough assists & goals, many more than Gordon did. Earlier you were barracking Red Man for being biased, of course you're not, are you?
3.) 27 May 2026 18:24:10
He started 18 league games. Less than half.
No bias there at all. He spent more time off the pitch than on it, just a fact, not an insinuation.
If I had the option of signing either for a club, I'd sign Gordon. No bias, I just think he has more to offer, he works harder for the team.
Are Barcelona biased in their opinion? Is the manager biased against him, selecting him less than half the time?
Redman has a bias against the owners, and he owns and admits that.
I'm not sure what your point is. He readily admits this, it was not an accusation, more a statement of fact.
I'd have a bias against Ole, for example, but not against Rashford.
Preferring one player over another is not showing bias, it's just an opinion.
Hopefully Barcelona sign Rashford and Gordon goes to Bayern.
4.) 27 May 2026 18:30:17
I did not barrack Redman. People are allowed to disagree and make points, and Redman is entitled to disagree. Redman defends his position and opinion, and does it well.
Bias will come through occasionally, and on certain topics more than occasionally for most of us.
I'm sure some of your log in names show bias on some subjects, and other log in names show it on other topics. So, you probably don't know if you're coming or going.
5.) 27 May 2026 18:49:34
If they want to offer a lower fee, we should negotiate a sell on %.
6.) 27 May 2026 19:41:36
Both good players, but Gordon is younger, on lower wages, and has a longer contract, which means, on an amortised basis, he would cost Barca a similar amount per year to Rashford, all things considered.
7.) 27 May 2026 21:04:06
DSG, that's it. Not that he is a better player than Rashford (he isn't, by the way), but he will be cheaper.
8.) 27 May 2026 21:09:59
In your opinion, he is not better, Angel. Others think he is better.
9.) 27 May 2026 21:29:24
Agreed, Angel, Rashford is a better player for me. Think Tuchel will have the same view come the World Cup first game for England.
10.) 27 May 2026 21:31:53
DSG, I'd like to see your numbers on that, please.
Rashford has agreed to take 200k per week, allegedly, 14m per year circa 10m per year on a 4 year deal plus his fee of 26m. Total 66m.
Assuming Gordon is on a 5 year contract, his fee amortisation before wages is 14m a year, plus minimum 5m a year in wages.
Total 95m, with 1 extra year to use.
But let's face it, neither of us knows the figures, and we are both making assumptions.
11.) 27 May 2026 21:42:57
Barca and Rashford know how many people do not want him back, so the power is not with United. Barca will buy Gordon for the left, and then agree another loan with United, but with an obligation next summer instead. Rashford will then be used as a utility forward across the front line as needed.
12.) 27 May 2026 22:04:45
Not to get too knee-deep in the weeds on finances, as I am a football finance amateur, but:
Gordon = EUR80m over 5 years is EUR16m.
Rashford = EUR30m over 3 years is EUR10m.
Gordon salary EUR8m a year based on rumours.
Rashford current salary is around EUR15m a year with the Champions League reduction.
So annual cost for Gordon is 16+8 = 24 a year, and Rashford is 10+15 = 25 a year, even if he agrees to keep his Champions League reduction to join Barca on lower wages than he would earn if he moved back to United.
So pretty similar deals based on my assumptions, which could be wrong clearly, but not as simple as the "oh Barca will pay 80m for Gordon but cant stump up 30m for Rashy" narrative.
Rashford is one of the best paid players in the Premier League if he comes back to United based on the contract he signed. Going to be hard to shift if the Barcelona door closes.
13.) 27 May 2026 22:06:29
In fairness, they might be looking at Gordon or Rashford as a cf, with Lewy moving on.
I'm very much hoping they will still sign Rashford. He has proven he can be effective as a rotation player. He is also good in big games quite often, and he does score goals.
I think he is a sniper at 26 m, and a very saleable asset if he takes lower wages, as it will be a lot easier for clubs to afford him. A loan with obligation is kicking the can down the road for Barcelona, and that might suit them and us.
14.) 27 May 2026 22:19:35
Rashford is a snip in terms of his football output. However, Barca have seen him up close, so can assess his mentality. Barcelona nightlife may have been tempting, and he may have shown his United attitude, but we just don't know.
Rashford's salary is a consideration. He is in the England WC squad. Gordon is a good player, but hit and miss. Surprised at Barca, but it may relieve some financial pressure at Newcastle, making it more difficult for Tonali admirers.
15.) 27 May 2026 22:30:25
According to The Guardian, Gordon is set to double his wages to £300k pw and is going to cost close to £70m. That's apparently 50% more wages than Rashford would have settled for, and 2X the transfer cost.
We all know his shortcomings. I can't see him starting for us ahead of Cunha or Dorgu.
He simply doesn't have the defensive qualities needed in the EPL. He would provide depth for European games, but according to reports, the hierarchy don't want him back. This could well end up with just another loan.
16.) 27 May 2026 22:13:54
Yes ken, that's my opinion and you have yours, although you usually caveat yours with how far superior your footballing opinions are to others.
I think he's proven to be better at this time having played for Man United, Barcelona and England. Gordon is yet to reach those heights, that could change of course.
17.) 27 May 2026 22:42:51
Yeah, it's thought it might ease the pressure on Newcastle, Red Man, if we are indeed in for Tonali, which I'd like to think we are. Smashing player ino, and the sort of quality we need.
I think he is better than Anderson right now, but I also think Anderson has more improvement to come.
It might mean Newcastle will be harder to deal with.
They have Harvey Barnes, Elanga, and Murphy, so are well stocked out wide.
They, imo, wasted their Isaak money last year with 2 bad buys up front and were relying on a kid at the end of the season. Hall and Tonali are both likely to be sold for further investment, but they will need to spend their money more wisely, not unlike ourselves. Over a billion of tripe bought under Woodward and co.
18.) 27 May 2026 23:01:40
I have never once said my opinion is superior to anybody else's.
I am not a subject matter expert at that level of professional sport, nor have I ever once claimed to be.
I think you'll find the caveat I use most is 'imo'. Rarely, unlike yourself, do I give my opinion as fact unless I have something factual to back it up.
If I think someone has what I consider to be a dumb opinion, I'll say it and give a different perspective.
But that will only be my opinion of their opinion. If someone chooses to get offended by my opinion of their opinion, then that's not my intention, and perhaps a debating site of differing opinions is not the place for them. They need to remember it's just my opinion. No big deal.
19.) 27 May 2026 23:37:09
I wonder if the door is open for Rashy now Carrick has been appointed. It's no secret we are light up front, and are maybe looking at another wide forward. Rashford ticks those boxes as a versatile forward and costs us his salary only?
20.) 28 May 2026 02:09:06
Gordon a done.
21.) 28 May 2026 05:18:09
Rashford will post better figures in goals and assists every season than Gordon. I don’t think that’s a doubt; you're misreading the situation. Barca have no need to push on the Rashford deal. He is already there and stated it's the only place he really wants to be, so why would Barca jump in if they can do another loan deal for him, leaving money free for Gordon or whoever? Why are you reading it as one or the other player? It’s no great shame not playing every week at Barca, but it’s good when you are called upon that you score or assist.
I would take Rashford every day of the week above Gordon, and twice on Sundays. Barca are probably building a squad for a year's time when Pep heads back there, which is why I said previously we should approach Hansi Flick now as manager.
22.) 28 May 2026 08:27:54
Now, don't spit your dummy out, Jsu, as it's AI stats.
Last 3 seasons.
Rashford has 29 goals, Gordon has 38.
Rashford has 16 assists, and Gordon has 21.
Top scoring season for the last 3, Gordon has 17 goals, Rashford 14.
Maybe it's a language barrier, or they count differently in German.
23.) 28 May 2026 08:42:18
Anyone who wants Rashford back must have their heads buried in the sand. He was a disruptive influence, he disrespected the club when he was partying and couldn't attend training, and he meandered around the pitch.
He had the shirt, and he didn't respect it. Sell him for tuppence for all I care, but he must not come back. I do not want him, and if the club try this reformed character nonsense, they are back to the Ole nonsense era. Get rid.
24.) 28 May 2026 09:00:39
I think the vast majority of United fans would agree, Redman.
Gordon, imo, is a better player. He scores more, he assists more, he works harder, but the odd numpty will argue otherwise and tell you misleading info based on info in their own head. But if you have several personalities within the same head, there is bound to be confusion.
25.) 28 May 2026 09:06:07
The odd numpty. There he is. ?
26.) 28 May 2026 09:07:21
EUR30m fee for Rashford is cheap, wages are not representative of the player's ability. His output in terms of goals and assists were OK at best. The fact he has had two loans, and nobody has taken him, especially Barce, as both parties were very keen to begin with, suggests there is more to this.
Barce got to try before they bought, and, on the face of it, have gone No thank you.
It is the stupidest contract this club has given out to date; the data showed he wasn't consistent. Crazy.
27.) 28 May 2026 09:17:50
Ken, you are so far up your own behind on all things football. You have put yourself on top of that mighty high horse that you can't see the wood from the trees. Sometimes I think you believe you have some God given right on here. I think even ed001 called it out recently. You have also been banned from the page having to set up a new profile ?
I will have an opinion on something, mainly based upon stats, but I never claim it to be the right opinion, just mine. You on the other hand will resort to name calling, say that you have bast superior knowledge on the subject etc etc. And when called out on it, you'll probably resort to more name calling. But you do you ?
And where has Gordon scored more goals and made more assists than Marcus Rashford. Google is your friend, and a simple search will tell you, that is not the case. Rashford comes out on top for goals and assists per game across his career.
Just take this season alone, I think Gordon only has 2 assists and has played many more games than rashford, not to mention minutes.
28.) 28 May 2026 09:47:11
Last 3 seasons were the stats I asked for, Angel. I think it's more relevant to a buying team to look at recent stats, as opposed to stats when one player was playing while the other was still at school.
29.) 28 May 2026 09:53:29
Don't be a handbag angel playing they're victim suits you but don't labour on it.
The respo se was to German fella who said and I quote
Rashford will post better figures in goals and assists every season than Gordon. I don't think that's a doubt;
So its not about opinion just facts disputing and outrageously incorrect claim yet again.
30.) 28 May 2026 10:41:40
He's only played the last 3 seasons has he? Fml.
Rashford only existed then. Gordon had 2 assists in the PL last season.
31.) 28 May 2026 11:18:53
Rashford had none in the EPL last season.
I think you will find buying clubs will be more interested in the more recent stats and outputs.
Oh, maybe that's why Barcelona bought him.
Rashford's stats from 4 plus years ago won't be taken into consideration by his next club.
Last 3 years is a fair reflection on most recent form.
59 g+a for Gordon and 43 for Rashford.
Google is my friend.
Now, last season is not comparable, as they were playing in different leagues, where they both had a combined 21.
So, the 2 previous seasons when both were in the same league.
Gordon had 38 v Rashford's 22.
Based on your criteria, Barcelona should be in for Olivier Giroud. He has more than both over his career. ???
32.) 28 May 2026 10:21:40
Now name calling angel. You called amorim a fraud among other personal insults. So do you only name call those that can't answer back. Get off your own high horse ya numpty?
33.) 28 May 2026 11:18:20
angel
Given your responses to me over a long period, I think you have some nerve calling out Ken.
34.) 28 May 2026 11:53:54
Oooh. ??
35.) 28 May 2026 13:42:51
I think the brown one is Angel AJH and the pink one belongs to his pal Tinky Winky.
36.) 28 May 2026 13:51:43
I love English players being snapped up by the top European teams, whether Kane/Trent/Bellingham and now seemingly Gordon. Can only improve them, and also help our national team (I know most seem not to care, but I enjoy that too).
However, gotta admit I was stunned to see Gordon linked with Barca, and even more so now it appears to have actually happened. He's incredibly fast and direct, but I never saw his ability at that level.
37.) 28 May 2026 14:27:40
It came a bit out of the blue, spenno. But when you look at his figures over last 3 seasons they are very good, and much better outputs than Rashford.
English youngsters and snr pros should play more at the top clubs around Europe. It would help your national team, I think for sure.
38.) 28 May 2026 14:36:39
You and your alto ego come up with some belters. Usually you say you take no notice of stats, but today you made them up to suit your argument, as per. But the reality is, Gordon got 6 goals this season, 2 assists in about 26 games.
Rashford, 8 goals and 7 assists in the league alone; we won't even bother with the 5&3 in the Champions League.
But of course you rock on with your factual opinion!
39.) 28 May 2026 14:39:51
You talk some twaddle Ken and then get all gun ho when your wrong and start abusing everyone, but that's ok everyone knows.
40.) 28 May 2026 14:49:55
Tumble you should also invest in a new computer because you must have some 3rd world google too, that or you had too many sherberts and it's effecting your eyesight
41.) 28 May 2026 15:42:57
Gordon scored 17 goals last season. Rashford scored 14. Check your computer for a virus.
42.) 28 May 2026 15:52:10
Jsu, in the last 3 seasons, how many goals has Rashford?
How many assists has Rashford had in the last 3 seasons?
How many goals has Gordon scored in the last 3 seasons, and how many assists has he had?
Please then come back to me and explain why you quoted
"Rashford will post better figures in goals and assists every season than Gordon." I don't think that's a doubt.
Over the last 3 seasons, Gordon has scored and assisted more than Rashford.
I'm not sure why you made that up.
You're mistaken, or your perception was wrong. I was a little surprised myself by the gulf in numbers, but it explains why Barcelona fancy him. Is it your ego that won't allow you to admit that you were wrong? It's not that rare an occurrence, so you should be used to it.
43.) 28 May 2026 16:31:57
Wonder what looks the much better player returns! Do you need me to tell you which one is which player... Oh maybe not!
Premier League Games
297
176
Premier League Goals
89
31
Premier League Assists
53
26
Champions League Games
48
18
Champions League Goals
17
10
Champions League Assists
12
2
England Games
70
17
England Goals
18
2
England Assists
7
0.
44.) 28 May 2026 16:20:24
lol .
oh you you scoured the exact amount of seasons that suits your google search and according to you that makes it 3 years and again According to you that's the exact number of years we should be looking at, and so are you including just league goals or adding cup games too, are you also including whilst playing at other clubs too or you want to look first to see what suits your self opinionated claims then come back or maybe as usual your resort to derogatory comments!
45.) 28 May 2026 17:11:29
Total games. For whomever they were registered for. It's not difficult.
46.) 28 May 2026 17:46:23
Well, you can see that list above. Now, anyone looking at that, without being biased and without knowing names or anything about them, picks only 1 player out of those 2, unless, of course, they just like to peddle their own agenda when it suits.
Guess you'll be awkward, though, and take the one with the vastly lower figures in every stat. But, luckily, you don't pick the United team or the England team, or, in fact, any team... thankfully.
47.) 28 May 2026 17:09:48
Has Gordon scored and assisted more in any season than rashford?
The answer is yes and your original claim is so far wrong its funny. Back in your box.
In none of the last 3 seadon has rashford out scored and assisted Gordon quite simple really.
Your wrong and can't admit it. So you think one of your other personalities could admit it. i'd say German could but he was a bit dopey so your dropped that one. You are wrong and you just can't say it. Its ok. ????
48.) 28 May 2026 19:17:37
Most sensible people with any sort of analytical mind would ask questions and look at trends before committing 10s of millions.
So, looking at career stats, Rashford's will show better numbers. He has played more games, had a few years more, and much more exposure to accumulate the numbers.
So before committing my millions id ask what are the most recent trends, last 5 years /3 years, 6 months etc.
Then id consider the circumstances behind the numbers.
The last 3 seasons is the example I gave to show that your claim there being no doubt that Rashford posts better numbers than Gordon every season. If I hadn't checked, I wouldn't have known. Your perception was wrong. Gordon has posted better numbers in g+a twice and the same once in the last 3 seasons.
Rashford has done well with his limited minutes. Nobody disputes that.
So if you looked at a VHS rental store's accounts from the 90s and they looked great and you invested your money in a new store today, based on old data you'd look pretty foolish.
Gordon is no world beater. I was shocked when I heard they came in for him. But if I had the choice of either id choose Gordon and if they sign both I think Rashford will play even less than he did this season.
Im not sure at all why your so blind to the fact you thought something and were wrong. Its not like it doesn't happen to us all every day in one way or another.
Its ok to be mistaken you know its not like we're experts. You just got it wrong, everybody gets things wrong from time to time.
I think if you'd asked 100 people, 70% + might have had your perception. But they'd have been wrong too.
I also think that 100% of those wrong would have been surprised and the same 100% would admit they were wrong. If you were an expert it would be surprising to be so wrong but your not nor do you claim to be so there is no shame in it.
18 Apr 2026 22:36:26
Massive shout out to that Garnacho performance tonight. He does love United deep down. ?
1.) 19 Apr 2026 01:57:04
I really can't remember the last United player that left that I didn't want to do well. But he is the real exception for me.
I really do hope I change that view over time. I think I will. Maybe if he leaves Chelsea. In fact I wouldn't be at all surprised if he ended up at Villa next season.
2.) 19 Apr 2026 09:22:39
I think it's Spain or more likely Italy for Garnacho next season to get some playing time. No issue with self-belief/arrogance, as all the best need that streak in them. But he believes his own former hype and thinks he's Ronaldo. There's a decent player in there, but I'm not sad he's gone.
3.) 19 Apr 2026 10:24:30
Putting aside his attitude issues, I am surprised that he seems to have regressed physically.
He looks like he could do with a good meal, lol. I have not seen Dalot that comfortable defensively.
4.) 19 Apr 2026 10:40:27
He seems quite immature. He behaved childishly before he was sold. He has hinted he regrets it all now, but he's another player who believed his own hype. He's hugely talented but isn't delivering. It's a shame, but he's not the first to arrive in a blaze of glory and then fizzle out.
5.) 19 Apr 2026 10:49:04
All Dalot had to do was show him the inside, and Garnacho passed backwards, like he did for us for so long. He really isn't good enough to be a top-level player, and Chelsea, I think, know that.
6.) 19 Apr 2026 11:28:28
Garnacho has to take personal responsibility for his actions, but I really don't think he has a good support system. It seems his brother and others are more interested in self gain, rather than what's best for his career. It just goes to show that a level head and steady guidance are very important in modern football.
7.) 19 Apr 2026 14:26:27
AJH, the importance of surrounding yourself with good people in order to keep you grounded. He is a talented player, but talent only gets you so far.
Fortunately for us, we got a few quid for him. He's still young, though, and will have chances, but I'm not sure he is mature enough to take them.
8.) 19 Apr 2026 18:44:16
There's a chat on the Chelsea site asking if he is their worst signing ever.
9.) 19 Apr 2026 18:55:53
There is as long a list at Chelsea for crap signings as there is at United.
10.) 21 Apr 2026 01:52:47
Sancho. By far the worst signing for us and for Chelsea too. Never heard of a club before then paying us to send him back.
30 Mar 2026 13:41:31
De Zerbi in talks with Tottenham. Another Manager seemingly off the list. So for me it’s between Carrick and Naglesmann now. To be honest, I’d be happy with either. I think the comparisons of Carrick with Solskjaer are unfair. IMO Carrick has a team now of better characters. No Rashford, Pogba, Lingard, Martial etc. This I think is a real important difference. The Manchester United structure is also better now, no Woodward and co. Football-minded people like Vivell. So I would be confident with Carrick going forward especially with the coaching set-up, Holland and Woodgate. I think Carrick ticks most boxes we should want. Unfortunately the one box he doesn’t tick is the one managers get judged on the most and that’s cups won BUT that has to start somewhere for a manager.
No reason it can’t be at United for Carrick IMO.
Obviously Naglesmann has probably a better CV and he has a previous, successful working relationship with Vivell, who seems to be taking on a bigger role now so this is a positive.
Regardless of who they opt for, and it could also be someone else, I do wonder if a decision sooner rather than later is needed to help with transfers. Players will want to know who’s going to be manager, teams will want to get transfers done early in some cases before the World Cup or we’ll want players back as soon as possible after World Cup so want players sorted out.
1.) 30 Mar 2026 15:24:56
We obviously don't want de Zerbi, or they would make it known they want to talk to him.
imo he would be out of his mind to take Spurs job before end of season.
2.) 30 Mar 2026 15:59:19
Yeah, I agree, Ken. Brave man takes the Spurs job now, and I personally wouldn't want De Zerbi at United. I think he's a good coach. I just feel he's a bit volatile for us at this current moment.
3.) 30 Mar 2026 16:39:18
Nagelsmann, really? He was abysmal at Bayern.
4.) 30 Mar 2026 16:44:01
Agree, Carrick and Nagelsmann seem among the top contenders, but we've eliminated other managers (Poch, Tuchel) as they will be involved with the World Cup, which will seriously hinder a good pre-season and transfer window.
Whatever transpires, I feel a better coaching team will be needed, especially re: Holland.
We've stopped leaking goals, but the style of play has been drab. Is this what we want to watch? No coincidence, England and United were tough watches, despite admittedly an upturn in results.
5.) 30 Mar 2026 17:35:01
I think he is very emotional and excitable, Ports.
But I do like his style of play, and think he would have us playing a much better brand of football with who we have.
But most of our fans dont have the appetite for the journey change would demand.
I've a feeling they will stick with Carrick. Its the safe option, and he has done well in terms of results. Very well in fact. If he gets new players he could do even better.
Id say he is as safe a bet as Glasner or Iraola or Poch etc.
If it doesn't work out, id imagine come next Oct Nov there will be better candidates available than there is now, so he must continue to do well.
I dont know about Enrique. If he fancies a new challenge he will have options.
Simione im a big fan of, but he isn't going anywhere.
Conte could leave Napoli, but not sure he is the man either.
6.) 30 Mar 2026 19:08:02
I think some are falling into the same trap as we did with Ole. Carrick is the comfy slippers, so people find something negative about every other candidate. Recently, the team have been sluggish, lacking energy going forward. To me, we are set up a bit like Southgate would be.
We need a world class manager. City will likely replace Pep well, whilst some want us to have the ex Boro manager.
We cannot make the same mistake again. Simeone would be my choice. Would he leave? Does he want the challenge or stay in a comfy place? We should already know.
The club now have notable emotional pressure from some fans and pundits to keep Carrick. Let's see if they cave in or make the tougher decision to get the world class manager the club needs. It needs a really strong character and personality.
7.) 30 Mar 2026 22:56:00
I think once UCL is confirmed for next year, that is when they will make their play, whether that is Carrick or someone else. The number one goal for the club is UCL, irrespective of manager, players, upper management.
Once that is achieved, an announcement of the direction clears the path for early transfers prior to the WC commencing.
That's what I would do if I was running the show, at least.
8.) 30 Mar 2026 23:16:13
I love Simeone, but I'm not convinced he would be the right option. His English is pretty poor, and Atletico play some dreadful football at times. His players work unbelievably hard for him though, and I absolutely love his mentality. He is also the most highly paid manager in world football at the moment, apparently earning about £25 million per year. If we got Simeone, and it proved to be a mistake, it would be a seriously expensive one.
Luis Enrique would be my first choice without question. I would've been pretty happy with Tuchel but that is obviously no longer an option.
Other than Enrique I think I would only really consider Pochettino or Nagelsmann. Obviously there are various arguments against both Poch or Nagelsmann, but they both have experience at massive clubs, both typically play exciting football, and have proven they are able to develop young players and bring them into the first team.
Poch hasn't really won anything yet, at least not in English football, but reaching a Champions League final with Spurs was a massive achievement, and his experience in the Premier League is an important factor for me.
9.) 30 Mar 2026 23:33:36
I don't see how people would accept Darrick.
A disaster waiting to happen!
Yea, he steadied the ship, but this league has been awful this year.
We've been pretty poor to watch recently, and we still can't do anything against a low block.
Let's not do what we did with Ole and get sentimental.
Get top 4, and go for a manager who has pedigree and a winning mentality.
Go all out for Enrique. We're Man Utd.
10.) 31 Mar 2026 00:02:35
Carrick has done a great job so far. It seems crazy to me to say you don't know how people would accept Carrick. We finished 15th last season, he's come in and got us winning football matches, and I'm enjoying going to the games again.
I'm not saying I want Carrick, I don't really mind as long as the guys in charge trust him, but to suggest you don't know why people would accept it is a bit silly when you look at the results.
11.) 31 Mar 2026 03:56:01
imo we need a more proven manager, otherwise the risk of regressing again the next season is very high.
Good enough options for me would be: Enrique, Ancelotti, Tuchel, Simeone. 1 is easily the standout. 2 and 3 are unattainable. 4 I dunno. Fair questions on how much he is paid and if he will ever leave Atletico.
That means we should pretty much go all out for Enrique.
Nagelsmann is an interesting option if none of these work out.
Carrick has the makings of a good manager, and maybe someone to consider in 5 years or so.
12.) 31 Mar 2026 06:42:31
Enrique isn't leaving PSG, he is angling for a new contract, Ancelotti and Tuchel are tied up with international jobs. Simeone is basically La Liga's David Moyes and will only ever manage one club well.
Pochettino shouldn't even be in the conversation, too many people still living off his Spurs stint and ignoring what happened at Chelsea. As for Nagelsmann, it's a gamble either way. If Germany do well, he won't leave; if they flop, do we really want him? With a release clause in 2027, that feels like something to revisit later.
Glasner and Iraola both fall into that "next Thomas Frank" category, promising, but unproven at the very top level and will be sacked after lacklustre performances.
If we're looking for a genuinely exciting, up-and-coming option, Sebastian Hoeness stands out. That said, it could easily turn into another Amorim situation. But Bayern are circling depending if Kompany replaces Pep when he goes off to manage Spain at the end of the season.
And then there's the inevitable Southgate shout, maybe as a steady, safe pair of hands if everything else goes wrong 6 months after Carrick is appointed, but that probably caps us at mediocrity.
Whatever happens, at least we will have something to talk about.
13.) 31 Mar 2026 09:01:17
When people say "we're Man Utd, go out and get the best!", they never follow this up with Guardiola. He's the best? I think I can assume what people's reason for this will be, but surely you have to apply the same logic when throwing out these other names.
Are City going to go all in for Simeone when Pep goes? If Arsenal win the league, should we go all in for Arteta?
14.) 31 Mar 2026 11:06:07
In what universe does the City manager move across the city to United lol.
Fergie met Pep in a well-documented meeting to discuss successing him. It didn't happen and we got Moyes. That was the chance to get him.
15.) 31 Mar 2026 18:32:23
Because, Ports, it is common sense.
Why would a rival manager join? It ain’t the Bundesliga.
Luis Enrique is manager of PSG. The French league.
Why is it hard to believe we could convince him to join the best league in the world and one of the best teams in the world?
There'll always be that achievement of being the manager to bring the prem back to Man Utd. Can’t get a much better achievement than that.
Also, in terms of Carrick, all he is doing is playing to the players' strengths. Yes, short term, it’ll get results, but we know it’s not sustainable.
The players will drop tools, and once they do, he is finished.
We need a manager with a clear style (433 to suit Utd), and a clear plan which aligns with those higher up. Getting the right players in to match the manager's needs. We can’t trust Carrick to be responsible for the rebuild of a 5/10 year plan on the basis of a few games and a stint at Boro. It’s laughable. It’s why we’re in this shambles in the first place. Let go of the sentiments.
Short term, to steady the ship, great. But, if we want to be back on top, you go for the best possible.
16.) 31 Mar 2026 21:14:47
Trumours
Spot on.
06 Mar 2026 11:22:27
It feels like a bit of an over reaction to us losing to Newcastle. Fans turning on Carrick and Mainoo and revisiting past negative points.
It was really frustrating losing to Newcastle. Honestly, if I was a Newcastle fan I'd be asking why the team hasn't applied that much effort in their previous 6/7 home games, but United is their biggest game of the season and they are desperate to create a rivalry with United, so it was always going to be a tough game.
As for United, the next game will tell us what we need to know about Carrick and also the players and whether they have mentally turned a corner. I was gutted after Wednesday but on reflection, first game lost in 2026, been on a good run to get to 3rd and we've lost but still in 3rd place. We've certainly had darker days in recent times so just need to take a deep breath and look forward to the Villa game.
1.) 06 Mar 2026 11:45:48
I don't necessarily think the reaction was to the result, but to the performance. Let's not forget we were playing against 10 men.
Since beating City and Arsenal, we have been stumbling through games and snatching things last minute or against the run of play. Carrick talks a lot about 'the United way', but I'm certainly not seeing it.
If we were attacking, urgent, energetic, and taking hold of games, and we lost, that would be one thing. The reality is that we are not any of those things, and positive results have carried more than a slice of luck.
2.) 06 Mar 2026 12:40:24
Think most of the criticism is legitimate. Obviously, the people using it as some sort of stick to beat Carrick and reference Amorim are ludicrous. I mean, Carrick could lose every game for the rest of the season and have a better win rate lol.
But the last 3 or 4 performances have been underwhelming, no width, little tempo, and some poor substitutions.
We keep letting the game drift, which for a team playing once a week barely is inexcusable.
For the first 20-25 minutes of the second half, against 10 men Newcastle, we didn't have a shot, it was bizarre.
Best case scenario is we limp into the Champions League places, performing well enough to get results but not too well so that Carrick gets the job permanently and we can find a top manager for next season.
3.) 06 Mar 2026 12:56:11
Criticism of both is fair, so long as it is balanced, and we should also praise as well.
Carrick has done really well, steadied the ship, and brought results where we were not getting them. Performances started off well but have definitely dropped. Is this him, the players, or purely a case of getting the results being the only importance?
Mainoo has had good and bad moments, but the bad can look really bad. At times it looks like Amorim was right and he needs to develop physically, and other times he links play and is really good. Is he in the right position for him, does he need a certain type of player to allow his best attributes (a Kante-type, energetic holding midfielder who frees him to roam).
This season feels like an odd anomaly, we have few games yet do not look like we are hugely benefitting fitness-wise from this. We certainly have periods, but over the past few games we have not hit the ground running and maintained this. Whether there is an argument that we are lacking match fitness and have too few games.... who knows.
Let's hope that Newcastle was a blip, a reality check, and we go on another run.
4.) 06 Mar 2026 13:24:55
My reaction was due to lack of urgency, effort and energy. Not the result itself. I am frustrated that we put no crosses into the box for Sesko, particularly that, against 10 men, our fullbacks continued to pass sideways and backwards instead of overlapping, driving forwards and crossing.
Also, our midfield was tapping the ball around like they had no ideas. We should have been laying siege to their goal.
5.) 06 Mar 2026 17:05:44
Exactly, Dodgy.
6.) 06 Mar 2026 19:55:52
It's an average team with an average manager. Not sure what you all expect. We've got no real number 9, not one good CB at the club, poor full backs, and not the greatest midfield, and you're all moaning cos we lost one game. I would say we've been damn lucky it's only the one, but still a vast improvement over the RA debacle, so I will take that.
If we can finish 4th it's a masterstroke by Carrick.
After the World Cup, a new manager comes in and, looking like Martinez, Carrick will be offered number 2. Not sure Carrick accepts that though, but we need a more experienced manager, and certainly need some better players.
7.) 07 Mar 2026 08:12:55
The Newcastle game just gave us a reminder of the real issues with our squad. The lack of quality in depth. It's no coincidence that the two worst performances we have had under Carrick have been in midweek games, games where we are playing our second game within 3 or 4 days.
People have mentioned Carrick's lack of rotation as an issue, which is a recurring theme from our time under Amorim. But no one is pointing out that against Newcastle our bench was:
Bayindir, Malacia, Heaven, Dalot, Ugarte, Amad, Zirkzee, Fletcher and Kukonki.
If we are honest, only Amad and maybe Dalot are good enough to be starters, and there are plenty of fans who don't think Dalot is good enough.
Bayindir has categorically proven he isn't good enough. So have Malacia and Ugarte.
Zirkzee is a player with a lot of ability, but who doesn't seem suited to the EPL.
Leaving just Heaven, Kukonki and Fletcher, three teenagers.
We are missing options like MdL, Martinez, and Mount due to injury, all three would give us great options. Yet let's be honest, all of them have a well earned reputation for being injury prone.
This squad desperately needs another 5 players of first team quality to give us the ability to just maintain our performances when playing twice a week.
Carrick, just like Amorim before him, has his hands tied when we have two games a week, and his lack of options means he has to stick with the same players over and over again, unable to give them a rest, to rotate, or to drop them when their form dips.
These recent performances are less a criticism of Carrick and more just further evidence of how much further we have to go with rebuilding this squad.
8.) 08 Mar 2026 03:15:10
2 mids is the bare minimum we need, imo.
If it were me setting the plan and targets...
Gomes (Wolves) 6.
Anderson 8.
Branthwaite CB.
Robinson LB.
Livramento/Munoz RB.
I'd be targeting those to be starters for next year.
Further to those I'd be looking at Wilson from Fulham and Senesi from Bournemouth on free transfers to bolster the squad.
You all already know who to get rid of.
13 May 2026 18:26:49
Seen rumours that Carrick wants Aaron Danks, currently Bayern's assistant, alongside Holland potentially staying on. I think this is key. A lot of focus on Carrick, but the staff he has around him is vitally important. Danks is highly regarded, as is Holland. Sadly for McKenna, although I don't agree with it, I suspect, especially with certain individuals on the playing staff at the time, his age, playing career and lack of coaching experience at that time went against him when it came to respect and trust in him from players.
I'm glad McKenna has gone away and forged his own career, because I think he is a good coach.
A good coaching team and good recruitment in the transfer window, then I think there's no reason Carrick can't succeed, but I also think the club should just give him a 2 year contract. No need to complicate it. This may be seen as not trusting him, but review it after a year and the club can then extend or look elsewhere.
07 May 2026 11:44:39
That newspaper is notorious for giving low and harsh marks to Marseille players. Not a story.
16 Jan 2026 15:31:35
I’ve seen that knit’s NOT Ruben Neves ?.
13 Jan 2026 17:30:35
That’s a great shout ConwyRed. Believe he was highly tipped to make a big move also? Imagine wouldn’t affect the summer budget either?!
18 Nov 2025 16:19:43
The argument of taking out a player automatically loses you a certain amount of goals is so simplistic. Van Nistelrooy left in 2006, his last season we scored 72 goals in the league. The following season we scored 83.
20 Jun 2026 16:51:33
Ah, so you're under the impression that the comparison was about physically seeing a price tag. Says a lot about you.
20 Jun 2026 09:38:32
I agree with you, Danny. One thing I'll never understand in football transfers is why some people act as if a club should simply pay whatever fee the selling club asks for.
If a club values a player at £40m and the selling club wants £70m, why would they just hand over the extra £30m? That's not ambition, that's poor negotiation.
Every transfer is a negotiation. The selling club wants the highest possible fee. The buying club wants the best possible deal. That's how every market works, whether it's football, business, or buying a house.
Fans often complain that their club is "messing around" or "haggling" when, in reality, they're trying to avoid overpaying.
If the player is worth the asking price to them, they'll pay it. If not, they'll negotiate or walk away.
Nobody walks into a car dealership and voluntarily pays £10,000 more than the sticker price, or an estate agent pays the asking price immediately. Yet somehow some football fans expect clubs to do exactly that in the transfer market.
Paying the quoted fee isn't always a sign of ambition. Sometimes it's just a sign that you've lost the negotiation.
18 Jun 2026 17:29:47
It seems to me that Ronaldo is constantly trying to show everyone that he is the best. When Messi scored the hat-trick, my initial thought before the Portugal game was Ronaldo will be shooting every chance he has. I think a lot of people would have thought this too, which says a lot about how he is viewed.
I seem to remember the last tournament, Portugal seemed to be playing for Ronaldo rather than the other way round and it does feel like it is just preventing Portugal from getting wins when they need them.
That said, it does feel mad criticising Ronaldo.
16 Jun 2026 13:31:14
For the fees being thrown about, surely we have an LB in Harry Amass capable of supporting Luke Shaw next season, getting some minutes and experience, ready to take over the following season, who has all the credentials and ability levels to be as good if not better than Hall? We also have Diego Leon to compete with Amass.
I've always felt RB was a more pressing position to focus on ahead of LB, anyway.
15 Jun 2026 14:44:18
I'm not really a fan of those Netflix football documentaries, partly because they always feel a bit too polished and controlled, but also because I think what happens inside a football club should largely remain private. The dressing room, team meetings, disagreements, and day-to-day conversations are meant to stay within the club.
Once cameras are involved, people inevitably become more conscious of how they come across, and it stops being a genuine behind-the-scenes environment. For me, some parts of football are better left behind closed doors rather than turned into entertainment.