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17 Jan 2024 10:32:17
Ed002, are united interested in Benfica's youngster duo of Anotnio Silva and J. Neves?

mbd

{Ed002's Note - Antonio Silva (CB) Benfica say that "many scouts" have been to watch the player - perhaps they are looking for someone to pay his €100M buy out clause - a move at that price seems unlikely but PSG and Manchester United are keen and he is first choice for Manchester United next summer. Juventus and Napoli would want a reduction in the asking price to make any move viable. Looked at by Spurs and Manchester City. For Liverpool perhaps a Konate replacement but very unlikely. Discussed with Chelsea during a conversation about another player and perhaps number two on their lengthy list of options but there is a part exchange option.
Joao Neves (DM/CM) Discussed with Chelsea when meeting over another player as they were seeking a replacement for Loftus-Cheek. Potential Casemiro replacement for Manchester United. Huge buy out clause and Benfica will not look to sell but recognise there will be growing interest. Seen as an option for Manchester City to replace Phillips. Versatile but falls over easily.}


1.) 17 Jan 2024 11:28:35
Much appreciated Ed.


 

 

29 Jun 2023 17:16:04
Mount done @55m +add ons 5m .?

mbd

1.) 29 Jun 2023 17:26:33
Seems so. Welcome mason ?.


2.) 29 Jun 2023 17:51:43
Sky Sports reporting this too.


3.) 29 Jun 2023 18:59:15
First bit of business done, rumours Onana (What's my name) will be wrapped up shortly too.

I'm worried about the lack of interest in the fringe players we are trying to move on.


4.) 29 Jun 2023 19:11:44
Congratulations on signing Mason. Like most CFC fans I’m gutted but these things happen in football.

You have signed a top player in my opinion and if played in the right position he will make and score plenty of goals for you over the next few seasons.


5.) 29 Jun 2023 19:32:11
Glad to see the deal done. He's a good player who'll fit well.

We haven't overpaid by as much as I expected too, which is a pleasant surprise. I still think we shouldn't have paid more than £55m, probably a bit less, but I was more than half expecting it to end up around £65-70m with our usual negotiating flair!


6.) 29 Jun 2023 19:39:17
It would seem that ETH was keener on Mount than Ciacedo which suggests he knows exactly what he wants to do with him.


7.) 30 Jun 2023 08:15:58
Defensively we were solid last year if you dismiss the two crazy games against city and liverpool. Offensively is where we struggled to score goals which in big games can change the game.

I think eth knows exactly what he wants and going about it to a plan. Budgets and who is affordable and makes sense is another conversation.


 

 

05 Jun 2023 12:54:33
Let me add to our rumours page what I read from a senior Muppet today. Afterall sharing is caring :D
A summary below:

Mount - personal terms non issue, united know what he wants. They’ve said they’ll pay them. Fee likely to be around £55m + maybe some classics for addons. Talks started with Chelsea 9-10 days ago. Probably our most likely signing. Erik has spoken with him.

Hojlund - I don’t know a ton but referencing a while back I was told he was a serious option. Laurie’s article for the athletic has a lot more detail. What I can say is United absolutely are strongly considering it and have held extensive discussions including with his family. If they want him he’s theirs. They’ve even reviewed medical records. Which leads to…

Kane - United will make an offer early as possible and then move on quickly. As I’ve said for a while they continue to not think they’ll get him. I THINK that’s why Hojlund is being brought forward, to where they can get it done in an instant if Kane doesn’t happen. I haven’t heard a lot of activity on other strikers in terms of talks and offers, I wouldn’t end up being totally surprised if they sign just Hojlund as a striker and spend money elsewhere.

Rice - I’ve been told United intend to make an offer. A serious one. Still expecting Arsenal to get him. Again I don’t know how they could do this with Mount and Kane, but I think it’s more likely a situation where they expect Kane not to happen and as such could make an offer for Rice while getting Hojlund.

Rabiot - Still in discussion. Still a serious option.

Costa - Scouted every game. Good chance he gets sold. United have spoken with mendes about it. United want a keeper.

It’s hard to put a finger on all the plans because obviously they can’t just go and get all these players but it seems that they’re acting rather competently - lining up every player to the point where they can pull the trigger on multiple based on different scenarios. As the season ends, and we move into hopefully the takeover wrapping up too, I will work to figure out within all these names what happens but some of it could be done pretty quickly (or moved on from fairly quickly) .

There are other names further down the lists should they not obtain the priority targets in these areas but these are the main names for now. For example Goncalo Ramos for whom mendes may broker a deal for him so that could be discussed along with costa.

A contact was asked if United would press ahead right away on these after the final, and replied yes. Mount and Kane to be the first moves with Mount very likely. I’m still told despite reports of Chelsea playing hardball and wanting to keep him, they’re not making any offers and Boehly hasn’t spoken to him.

Still pessimism on Kane but early move then move on as stated above. Ten Hag is definitely also thinking about a goalkeeper make no mistake about it. Hojlund is a deal that could get done in a matter of a couple weeks as well.

mbd

1.) 05 Jun 2023 13:16:16
Very happy with all the above targets. Agree it's unlikely Kane and Rice could arrive in the same window.
Would prefer MacAllister over Mount if we're looking at that type of player, valuations seem similar but Mac has a preferred destination.


2.) 05 Jun 2023 13:26:43
I don’t think there is anything between mount ( last season) and Mcallister! In fact I’d lean towards mount! Can’t believe the negativity towards mount think he’d be an excellent piece of business!


3.) 05 Jun 2023 13:28:41
What about Kim Min-jae?


4.) 05 Jun 2023 14:01:01
Not negativity Chris, just a preference 'if' there was a choice between Mount and Mac All-star. But I don't mind Mount at all, I too think he would be a shrewd bit of business.


5.) 05 Jun 2023 14:29:16
Damn that auto-correct feature!


6.) 05 Jun 2023 14:38:18
Great stuff mbd. Hope most of that that pans out. We should be able to get 100M from outgoings so it could be feasible (Maguire, McT, Fred, Henderson and possibly Martial or Sancho all appear to be on the outgoings list) . Supposing it's Costa, Min Jae, Mount, Rabiot, Hojlund and a RB I'd be happy enough. Getting Kane instead of Hojlund would be a dream of a summer tbh.


7.) 05 Jun 2023 18:08:53
Not a massive fan of Mac Allister. Doesn't offer enough going forward for me. Good player, just not great and never will be. Safe, tidy and active player, but no Xfactor for me. Not over impressed with Mount either, but he does have a better eye for goal and can go to the next level. Questionable whether or not he will mind.

Spenno, not sure Mac Allister has a preferred destination so to speak, as opposed to a single destination as it stands who he has agreed terms with. Clubs do hold an interested in him, but I don't think he is a main target for them, so a good time for Liverpool to get him wrapped up. United should be concentrating on Rice in my opinion. Said it before we were even linked, when Arsenal were nailed on to get him, we need to get him in the door. Model professional on and off the pitch.

We hold an interest in several players, but we must go for the best this season. I've been saying for a while Kane and Rice. Mount would be a good bonus.


8.) 05 Jun 2023 18:52:14
I rate MacAllister really highly as i do Mount.

Any side needs to have players who do their job amd just make it tick, that's the role both players play.


9.) 05 Jun 2023 20:19:42
Oakbark - Completely respect your opinion. However I'd rate Bellingham really highly, I rate Rice really highly. Players like Mac Allister are what I call decent players. For £50m or so you would expect to see the best teams in the world trying to buy him if he would improve their team significantly. So far it is just Liverpool. No one else is making their move on him.

I like him, but would he improve our first team significantly, nope. He wouldn't. Better than Fred yes, better than McTominay, better than VdBeek, but I want a higher tier midfielder. The ones the likes of Bayern Munich and Real Madrid want.


10.) 05 Jun 2023 22:30:07
I think for a 'decent' player who starts in the World Cup holder's midfield, Mac Allister for me probably currently gets into any midfield in the Prem bar Man City's.


11.) 05 Jun 2023 23:46:28
De Paul was also in the WC winning first team midfield. But I wouldn't want us to sign him. You want Di Maria back here?

You are correct though about him getting into all midfields bar City. Would he dislodge Fernandez? No, Casemiro? No, Eriksen, I'd say yes.

Hence the need to improve our midfield. We need top class midfielders. We must replace with much better than we already have.

I'd have only been happy with Bellingham or Rice next to Casemiro next season. So my standards are pretty high Spenno.

I just want us to aim higher. Time to turn the corner. We need to be challenging again.


12.) 06 Jun 2023 10:05:54
Completely understand Sydney although I'm sure there are dozens of midfielders who are world class and would improve us. Bellingham is incredible - equally good at attacking as well as tracking back and doing the dirty stuff, and a club captain already as a teenager. Rice for me is exemplary, great leadership skills with excellent energy and defensive qualities, not sure I'd class them in the same bracket though as they are very different players.


13.) 06 Jun 2023 10:37:45
Liverpool fan in peace here. Always interesting to see what other fans think about players and respective signings.

I honestly do think Mac Allister is a very good player BUT I don't think he would work in every team. I think for us (Liverpool) he will be excellent as he fits the bill as to what we need. High energy, technically impressive and rarely ever loses the ball. We've missed that since Wijnaldum has left. I feel though he needs to have a fellow combative midfielder as, in-spite of him being good defensively, he doesn't quite have the pace/ speed to effectively cover large areas of the pitch.

I think he would be effective for Man United too, but that depends on your tactics going forwards. If you're looking at a more attacking midfielder I think Mount would make far more sense than Mac Allister who has practically dropped into the No8 role and has found himself playing deeper under De Zerbi. If you want someone to keep possession with a good passing range then Mac Allister is the better option. Completely different players imo.

For Man United personally I would snap up Mount and then focus on a good forward and GK. I think GK is a position where you really need to invest. De Gea is really poor.


14.) 06 Jun 2023 11:17:36
Thanks for coming on and giving a fair footballing appraisal MM. Agree with most of what you are saying tbh. I think Mcallister will be a solid signing for you, he’s not flashy but he keeps the ball well which is what you’ve been missing like you say.

Agree completely about DDG. I’ve been a massive fan over the years and I remember been stood in the Stretford End after his Real Madrid move collapsed…. nearly brought a tear to my eye the fact he was staying and felt the same about us as we felt about him. I digress……the game moves on, and what we are trying to achieve is a high energy counter attacking style. This is reliant on good distribution across the back five. For me his kicking has become a liability. His short game is fraught with danger, and his long game lacks accuracy and distance, it comes straight back from the second ball when opposition still have attacking numbers to hurt us. Shot stopping he’s brilliant, but you have to balance that against where he’s caused us issues either defensively or attacking wise. I think there are a number of keepers out there now who are equally as good a shot stopper as DDG, but are better footballers. And I think now we need a number 1 who’s just fresher and can distribute.


15.) 06 Jun 2023 11:58:15
Yeah Fireman I agree on DDG. He was absolutely world class a few seasons back. The best GK in the world for a time without a doubt.

Whilst I think he is a good shot-stopper I think this season has even seen this wane slightly. His passing is also really poor and has led to quite a few moments where you've conceded from it (it was ludicrous in the Sevilla game) .

A modern GK is essential now. De Gea is a great traditional GK but really lacks in terms of high claims, commanding his box (eg coming off his line) and his overall distribution. I think Costa would be a decent pick up, but having watched him I remain largely unconvinced. He's rash at the best of times and has had some really horrible performances in the UCL. Perhaps this is because he's young? Raya would be my choice and, if you can afford it, Maignan would be the perfect GK pick-up.


16.) 06 Jun 2023 12:09:53
Interestingly the young Dutch GK at Anderlecht just gave an interview talking up his own confidence in having the ball at his feet. Hmm, sowing the seeds.


17.) 06 Jun 2023 12:43:18
I can only comment from what I’ve seen as a fan, ETH sees him daily and I guess he knows what he wants from a keeper more than I do. However, it’s a position we need to have a look at imho. In terms of what we are looking for and what’s out there…. we aren’t spoiled for choice. Raya probably fits the bill of a modern sweeper keeper. 40 million is ridiculous though. I wouldn’t touch Pickford with a barge pole despite us having some links to him in the past. Had Everton gone down I reckon we’d have gone for him. For me, Ramsdale should be ahead of him in the England pecking order.


18.) 06 Jun 2023 18:21:59
MM - I cannot disagree with that. Mac Allister looks good in a packed midfield, but we don't play with a packed midfield unless City are in town. He is a good, tidy little player, but nothing spectacular. A solid player that clubs need. We had Park who had a great engine, but no other great traits, you need these kind of players in your team. With one spot in midfield available, I want it to be a player with more to his game. I really like Rice, obviously Bellingham was the perfect fit, but he was always RM bound. And like you said a keeper and CF is very important. Ideally for me someone like Kane. Someone who doesn't need a season to fit in.


 

 

24 May 2023 15:15:01
Read from a muppet Mount story has real legs.

Talks with Chelsea set for after or before the game. Ten hag really likes Mount and has met with him.
Not my favorite news tbh.

mbd

1.) 24 May 2023 16:45:54
It's BS. If EtH met him, then that would be tapping up.


2.) 24 May 2023 17:33:56
Just to better understand tapping, will it be considered as such if Chelsea have given permission?

{Ed077's Note - no.}


3.) 24 May 2023 20:01:43
Ornstein reporting mount wants to come and talks due to start soon.


4.) 24 May 2023 20:12:05
Mount and Rice are best friends, just a random statement of fact, nothing more ?.


5.) 24 May 2023 21:01:27
I believe he’s coming into his last year of his contract and Chelsea need to trim their squad so we may be able to get him for a good price. In the 21/ 22 season : played-53, Goals-13, Assists-16. He’s good on the ball, at both progressive carries and passing, progressive carries in midfield are one of our weaknesses. He’s tactically very versatile able to cover 8 and 10. His passing and support of his fullback and winger playing 1/ 2’s and always offering an option are great. He also works very hard off the ball. If we can get him for a decent price and sell Mc-Fred I think we would be stronger as a squad.


6.) 24 May 2023 21:02:55
Mount is definitely NOT an upgrade on Eriksen, as some have mentioned online. To be honest, Mount isn’t even an upgrade on van de Beek - we need far better and in far more high priority positions than £50m+ on a Bruno understudy….


7.) 24 May 2023 21:37:31
Downsie, not even an upgrade on Donny? Have a word with yourself mate.

Chelsea's back to back player of the year and key player in their UCL win under Tuchel isn't an upgrade on a player who went on loan to Everton and couldn't hold down a starting place.

You've completely mugged yourself off with that comment.


8.) 24 May 2023 21:59:47
Underwhelmed if it’s Mount but better that Scotty and Fred I guess. Can come in for Eriksen and if needed. Tbh I don’t even know what type of position he is.


9.) 24 May 2023 22:08:37
Good squad option he would be, better than Scott, Fred and a lot better than Donny but so is my gran and she’s been dead 20 years.

If we can get him fairly cheap he would be a really good asset, Eriksen can’t play every game and at the moment the cover is Fred.


10.) 24 May 2023 23:43:55
If he is a player that ten hag wants then that’s good enough for me. He will have an idea of where he fits and the type of role he will want him for.


11.) 25 May 2023 06:33:16
Exactly Caolan, everyone has complained that previous managers didn't get the players they wanted. And they only want the club to sign "who EtH wants", at least until they disagree/ don't like who EtH wants.


12.) 25 May 2023 07:42:03
Id rather take Maddison, I think he is a better player, also versatile and would cost less, especially if Leicester drop.

I think we all realise that funds might be a problem this summer, so spending 60-80 mil on Mount isn't great piece of bussiness, especially when we still need a striker.


13.) 25 May 2023 09:02:17
Trololo by all accounts Maddison has a very high opinion of himself and brings some baggage. I think ed001 said he misses training from nights out etc.


14.) 25 May 2023 09:22:41
Maddison's attitude has been discussed on here before by Ed1 who has stated he has a habit of skipping training after a night on the lash which he is fond of.

I think Mount would be a good signing and has performed as part of a 3 man midfield. He may not have a good season but prior to that i thought was critical for Chelsea and to be fair i think Chelsea's struggle this season are well documented.

No idea over cost, no idea over how much is available this summer but i not convinced the sale precludes us spending or that Mount precludes us paying heavy for a striker.


15.) 25 May 2023 09:29:24
Looks like this might be a goer.


16.) 25 May 2023 09:37:13
Mounts far better than Eriksen some of you are having a laugh. Check his stats.


17.) 25 May 2023 10:56:00
Mount is definitely an upgrade on Eriksen.
Only a year left on his contract it would be a shrewd signing and probably wouldn't cost a lot of money.


18.) 25 May 2023 12:03:16
Mount a good player but Chelsea are apparently looking 70m and he wants much more than the 250k a week Chelsea have offered him - costs seem very high for a player about to enter the last year of his contract though do they not?


19.) 25 May 2023 12:25:43
Depending on the price and wage, he'd be a good squad player and upgrade on SM and Fred to come off the bench or play the bottom half of the table to give Eriksen or Bruno a rest. We've said all year with the amount of games played depth is key and our bench has a big drop. This would help that a bit no doubt.


20.) 25 May 2023 12:49:15
Van der Beek is terrible can't believe we are even comparing. The windows under olie and who we bought and what we paid will go down as the worst ever. VDB is not good enough for any prem team and better suited to play in Italy or Spain.

Its obvious we are looking for a mobile/ versatile box to box player. eriscon has no pace and legs go after 60/ 70 minutes. If true mount will start ahead of ericson imo.


21.) 25 May 2023 12:53:44
Supposedly Chelsea's valuation is about £70m. Seems a lot for him to me.


22.) 25 May 2023 14:41:28
I did not know that about Maddison, that is probably the thing that is keeping him from top clubs.

Btw, I think there is no way Mount would come to be a squad player.

Anyway, his price is the biggest problem here.


23.) 25 May 2023 16:26:46
What Chelsea value him at and what they get will likely not be the same.

He's in the final year of his contract, does not intend to renew, while Chelsea have overspent and desperately need to offload several players.

Bill, so you feel 70m and wages in excess of 250k are are too high for a player in the final year of their contract.

So I'd imagine you'd definitely feel that a fee north of 70m along with wages above 300k for a 30 year old in the final year of their contract would be far too much?

{Ed002's Note - Chelsea can’t be forced in to selling players cheaply and the are far from desperate given the departures already sorted out.}


 

 

11 May 2023 17:18:18
Goalkeeping latest rumour I read is that we are looking at Dutch and Anderlecht bart verbruggen. Also I see tabloids of Emi Martinez wanting to leave in the summer and Utd being one of the possible destinations.

mbd

1.) 11 May 2023 18:38:51
Personally I think David Raya would be a great option from within the EPL.

Other options could be Diogo Costa, Andre Onana or Gregor Kobel if we have funds to spend big on a keeper.


2.) 11 May 2023 21:07:33
Sanchez from Brighton would be a good one, somethings going on there as he's not playing recently. I also like the look of bazunu at Southampton, I know they get battered most weeks but he's going to be decent.


3.) 11 May 2023 22:36:32
Play football with a huge Brentford fan. They all love Raya there. Apparently a class act.


4.) 12 May 2023 09:33:37
If we are spending large amount on a goalkeeper I think Raya is the one, however I doubt he gets brought in if De Gea signs his contract. I would not be surprised if we bring a young keeper in, give them a season to aclimatise and compete with De Gea with Bart Verbruggen being mentioned in that regard.
A lot may depend on the budget for the summer as we may not be able to get all the players we want in one go so have to prioritise.


5.) 12 May 2023 16:49:45
Signing DDG on a 2 year extension on a lower basic wage, with maybe a one year extension wouldn't be the worst idea. Even if we sign a new first choice keeper.

In the past the issue has always been that one first choice keepers leaves before a new one is brought in. That puts a lot of pressure on the new guy as he has to be a success.

It would make much more sense to bring a new first choice keeper in AND keep DDG as back up for a year or two just in case.

For me Raya seems like the best choice. He's EPL proven and wouldn't cost as much as some of the other options due to him only having a year left on his deal.


6.) 12 May 2023 18:52:26
Shappy, You can’t put de gea on 200k a week and then a stick him on the bench

I agree we should get someone to challenge him, but they wouldn’t be first choice unless de gea kept dropping clangers

If ten Haag thinks he will keep dropping clangers, he wouldn’t want to extend his contract.

Only way de gea stays is if he’s first choice imo.


7.) 12 May 2023 20:53:05
MRT_TGOD, the problem is Henderson will almost certainly leave this summer. So if DDG leaves then we will need two new keepers rather than just one.

I agree that keeping DDG on 200k a week to be our second choice keeper is less than ideal. But somewhere along the line compromises will need to be made. Keeping a club legend at the club on high wages as a back up for a year or two isn't the worst compromise.

Assuming that DDG will be happy as our back up.

What doesn't make any sense is signing a keeper who isn't better or better suited to how EtH wants to play just to keep DDG as first choice.

You should always be aiming to buy better than what you have and then make the current first teamer the back up. That way you are getting better.


8.) 12 May 2023 21:39:28
if we end up buying a goalie, until then we will get associated to every goalie under the sun:)


9.) 13 May 2023 12:26:37
Shappy I just think buying a young goalkeeper who can play the way ten Haag wants makes sense at this stage.
striker, midfielder and centre back all bigger priorities than the gk and possibly a limited budget this summer

I wouldn’t even mind if we had de gea, kovar and Heaton as the 3.

If kovar doesn’t show enough then we buy a new number 1 next summer.


10.) 13 May 2023 13:09:55
MRT_TGOD,

The thing is that much like Liverpool and City a modern keeper is fundamental to how they play.

It wasn't until Pep got Ederson and Klopp got Alisson that either team was able to make that jump to being the all conquering sides that they became.

While we are seeing a decline at both Chelsea and Spurs in part due to them not being able to be defensively secure and lacking a keeper who can play effectively in a more modern style.

Arsenal on the other hand made a massive jump forward this season, a large part of that is the signing of Ramsdale (who personally I think is a good but not great keeper) . He does however allow the side to play out from the back and he is comfortable in stepping out of his area to sweep.

There is a clear pattern that where teams that have added a modern keeper have massively improved and become amongst the elite and those that haven't have regressed and declined, dropping down the table.

Simply put having a press resistant keeper who is comfortable on the ball and capable of sweeping outside of their area means that your team is playing with the full 11 men both in and out of possession.

Whereas teams playing with a more traditional shot stopper keeper are only playing with 10 men when in possession.

You cannot get to the top when playing with one hand effectively tied behind your back due to you giving your opposition a man advantage against you.

The footballing landscape has evolved beyond the capabilities of DDG, and he is now not a top level keeper.

If we don't replace DDG this summer with a keeper capable of playing the style EtH requires then we WILL NOT finish next season in the top four.


11.) 13 May 2023 18:17:40
MRT_TGOD

One of the things that have led to success/ marked improvement for the likes of City, Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle is the application of a particular brand of football. They have all bought keepers who fit the style.

For example.
Ederson could win his 5 title and/ or his second FA Cup this season, he might even win the CL with City. Joined in 2017 and also won 4 League Cups and 2 Charity Shields.
Alisson has won a title, an FA Cup, League Cup, CL, and CWC since joining Liverpool in 2018.

Since the arrival of Ederson, De Gea has won just the one trophy - this year's League Cup.
In the 6 seasons since the arrival of City's wonderful keeper, United have foolishly stuck with a comparative relic while also, in 2019, agreeing to paying him £19.5m per year - the highest paid GK on the planet and getting more than the entire squad of Leeds and Brentford. That's called at least 4 years of pathetic mismanagement led by the moronic decisions of idiots.
In the meantime, Arsenal, Newcastle, even Villa and Brighton, have bought keepers who play the modern way and bring greater strengths to their respective teams.

I know that, from a logical standpoint, £200k per week for a second choice GK is daft, but that's where United are.
Personally, I would never have agreed to the 2019 contract for De Gea.

United don't have a choice.
They need a new first-choice keeper who will cost in excess of £40m.
They need a decent second-choice - that might well cost at least £20m.
That £20m, during this period of transition, would probably be better spent elsewhere - especially if United could get £20m+ for Henderson.

At the end of the day, De Gea can still do a job and has served the club as well as he could, but the game changed years ago and United are now making well overdue decisions to help drive the change of identity throughout the club.

For instance, do you think Maguire would look quite as bad if he had Ederson behind him?
He still wouldn't be an £80m player - never in a month of hellishly frozen Sundays, but he'd be more comfortable.

United need to simply take the inevitable hits. They've spent big on wages for years, they're still easily the biggest spenders on salaries in the PL and the 4th in world football.
We've not won the League for 10 years. Read that again, let it sink in - 10 years.
Since that last title win, we've won one FA Cup, two League Cups and one Europa League.
Since that last title win, we've continually allowed ourselves to look stupid by agreeing to ridiculous contracts and renewals for the likes of De Gea and Jones.
Since that last title win, we've allowed Pogba to take the proverbial again and paid way over the odds for him and so many other players.
Since that last title win, our identity has been like a crane fly - all over the place.

This period has been an incredibly expensive farce, conducted by a variety of pilchards who are way out of their depth.
It's only right and utterly unavoidable that the transitional period is also expensive, that's the bed United have made for themselves.


 

 

 

mbd's banter posts with other poster's replies to mbd's banter posts

 

19 Mar 2024 10:40:03
Thank you for the great update Ed 002. It is much more detailed that what i have been able to gather, so it is very much appreciated.
From what i have read and heard; it appears our main targets are RW, 1-2 midfielders and 1-2 CBs (which of course is a subset of Eds valuable info)
Varane's future seems in the balance a bit. Olise, Branthwaite are names that keep popping up.

We are told usually during this international break there's a fair bit of work done on really nailing down plans for the next steps in recruitment. As between now and May, contacts will be made confirm interests and start talks, get prices and begin approaching the subject.
My only concern in all these targets I see is the lack of a striker, won't that make us over reliant on Hojlund?

mbd

1.) 19 Mar 2024 13:26:43
Feels like we will be looking at HM/ CB/ RW as starters with possible additional players for development/ rotation at CB/ CM/ Striker.
Depending on outgoings could be places up for grabs from the youth set up or more ins.

Can't all be solved in one window so expect the plan to cover 2 summers with winter window any pickups that may come available but would sooner we don't need to do that.


2.) 19 Mar 2024 14:38:41
mbd, I'm fairly sure the club will look to bring in a striker. However, despite the lack of options currently at the club at CF we do have Højlund who is and will be first choice. While we have several other areas in the first 11 that needs to be up graded.

It'd be madness for the club to focus on bringing in a player to sit on the bench over bringing in a player to improve the first 11 and start most weeks.

Therefore, a CB partner for Martinez, a midfield partner for Mainoo and a RW starter to replace Sancho/ Greenwood/ Antony must be the priorities. If Onana leaves then GK becomes an obvious priority as well.

Once those deals are done then we can look at what other areas of the squad need improving. With ST, CM, CB and possibly fullback. All dependent on departures, players available and finances of course.


3.) 19 Mar 2024 15:31:02
It's so hard to know Brad.
So much depends on who leaves and what fees we get.
The eds list is pretty comprehensive but there are so many unknowns.
Can't wait for 31st Aug tbh.


4.) 19 Mar 2024 17:57:55
Why do you think Onana will leave?


5.) 19 Mar 2024 19:22:22
Dodgy, I hope he doesn't but Ed002 said that it's a possibility this summer.


6.) 19 Mar 2024 21:23:50
Shappy,

When did ed002 say that? that's a strange one. I actually like him more and more every passing game now and think he is going to be really good for us in a better team.

There is so much stuff everyday about united and latest being about Greenwood coming back. Hard to make sense of what true and what's just bs.

One thing for sure, we will have a better team/ squad after the summer and let's see what happens.


7.) 19 Mar 2024 22:07:20
I am coming round to Onana but he does faff about with it when he has clear outlets. The frustration was tangible on a number of occasions at the weekend.


8.) 20 Mar 2024 10:03:30
It could be any number of things with Onana. The new people in charge might not rate him. It could be the uncertainty surrounding manager who signed him. Ability of the squad to compete for trophies. Not liking the atmosphere in the dressing room. Or possibly not liking Manchester.

I think he has shown a lot of character in fighting his way back to form. But players leave clubs, so wadda ya going to do huh?


9.) 20 Mar 2024 10:05:10
Onana is improving as the season goes on and I don't think we will see the best of him until next season. The risk is if EtH does leave does the new manager like him.

He has a unique style that can look ugly when it goes wrong which does not help and he has been playing in a system with players that do not suit his best atributes.

I am looking forward to next season when we will hopefully have another CB comfortable on the ball, Martinez back from injury and a settled back 4 with Dalot/ Shaw. Alongside that a developing Mainoo who is comfortable playing out from the base of midfield. We will then see the benefit of his ball playing atributes alongside him being more comfotable with the premier league.


 

 

02 Jan 2024 09:58:51
Eds and fellow posters, I have very little faith left in EtH, I still believe he would/ should be let to see the season out. But is appear to be that he always has only one game plan and hardly if ever does he vary his tactics. Is the English game and being Utd's Manager above EtH capabilities? Is there some bigger picture I am not seeing?
I know we have had injuries and EtH has hardly had his full compliment of signings to work with but nonetheless, I see some performances and feel that out U21s would have done better.

mbd

1.) 02 Jan 2024 10:51:21
I'm not sure at all that our u21s would have done better and I think that is a ridiculous statement.


2.) 02 Jan 2024 10:52:26
I'm finding it hard to judge ETH at all. He's made mistakes but he inherited a terribly constructed squad full of players of poor technique and, in some cases, worse attitudes. He also had almost no support structure around him. Add to that the motherload of an injury crisis and I'm going to cut him slack. I'd like to see him at least see out the season and evaluate then.


3.) 02 Jan 2024 10:57:16
I feel he's perhaps underestimated the task at hand and made some dodgy transfer recommendations (not his fault a few were signed at the prices they were) .
It's been refreshing to see someone come in and put the put down and deal with a few issues. I don't think these players walk over him as they have others.
I'm not convinced he has it in him, but he's very highly regarded by top managers and feel it would be unfair to dismiss him right now as he deserves the season to show what he can do once all these players return as I don't think he's had the luxury of fielding his strongest team once yet.


4.) 02 Jan 2024 11:35:38
That Wolves game first day of the season is still probably the most concerning game for me lol, we had our full team out after a strong pre season and conceded like 30 shots and loads of clear cut chances.

People talk about if we get all our players fit we will see a real ten haag team but i just don't see it.


5.) 02 Jan 2024 11:49:40
Tumbleweed I don't think it is ridiculous especially since 2 of our best players are 18 and 19 - Mainoo and Garnacho respectively.
Like I said above, SOME performanes .


6.) 02 Jan 2024 12:13:18
The under 21’s may not have performed better but would potentially have tried harder and shown more desire.


7.) 02 Jan 2024 12:58:57
And got relegated keefy.


8.) 02 Jan 2024 14:36:20
I think it's nearly impossible to draw any conclusions from this season beyond how poor in quality, fragile and disjointed our squad is.

EtH was between very good and excellent last season. He came into a club that needed rebuilding, had just had their worst ever EPL finish, with standards and expectations on the floor. He then raised standards and got us back competing for trophies, making two finals and winning our first silverware in 6 years.

The one really big and glaring error he has made was the signing of Antony, who despite showing he has talent, seems totally incapable of turning that into performances. The frustrating thing with Antony isn't that he doesn't have the ability, we see him beat players only to turn back rather than drive into the space he's created. It seems more like poor decision making or perhaps a lack of confidence. He does however, fulfil the managers orders, he stays wide, works hard for the team, presses well. It is just on the ball that he just can't seem to get it right.

He has had to deal with a litany of problems, from the Greenwood situation, to the Ronaldo throwing his toys out the pram, to a mid-season world cup, to Sancho needing time away, and the continued uncertainty caused by the potential sale of the club likely impacting the dressing room as well as hindering his ability to plan for the medium term. Yet he has handled every single one of those things with grace and an assured hand with a level of authority, taking them in his stride and steadying the ship each time. Very few managers would have or could have handled all of that half as well as he has.

He even managed to steer the club through a media storm a month or so ago, where it seemed that the media smelt blood in the water and went all in on him in the same way that saw the end of Moyes, LvG, Jose and Ole. Yet EtH seemed to navigate through that. The rumours of the dressing room turning on him, and it all falling apart. Yet here we are now and none of that seems true, or if it was he has sorted it.

Has he been perfect and made no mistakes? No of course not. But then no manager is. SAF made plenty of mistakes throughout his time at the club. We can only really judge EtH fairly on last season, as this season he has had to deal with an unprecedented number of injuries and been left without most of his key players for much of the season. As mentioned the big obvious mistake was the signing of Antony, who for whatever reason just hasn't worked out. He's made a few tactical errors, particularity last season while he was working out and getting to know his new players, what they can and can't do and which of his preferred tactics are and are not viable with these players. We saw after the first two games last season for example a clear shift in how DDG was being asked to play out from the back. There are numerous examples of where EtH has tried something for it not to work and for him to change and adapt.

If I'm honest that is the biggest surprise I've found with him as a manager. Just how willing he is to try something different or change things if it isn't working. While he clearly has a preferred way of playing, he won't try and force it if it's not working and has shown he is adaptable and willing to embrace change. My impression before he signed was that he was more ridged in his philosophy, but it doesn't appear to be that way at all.

It's why I find it funny that some posters have both complained that EtH hasn't imparted a specific style of play, but also complains that he doesn't mix things up and will only play "his" way of playing. Obviously those posters have argued both sides of the coin, either they are not able to read what is happening in a game and therefore cannot tell the difference or they just have an agenda against the manager and will argue black is white if it will reflect poorly on the manager.

He's very clearly tried to get the team playing a specific way, with set patterns of play etc, yet he has also clearly adapted and changed that to try and get the best out of the players he has.

This season it is near pointless trying to analyse anything. We have had by far the worst injuries of any side in the league and the sheer number of injuries, time out players have missed and to who those injuries have effected have made it totally impossible to play any sort of consistent style of play, to any sort of consistent level at any point this season. Simply put there is no manager who could have done better under the circumstances.

I know people don't like hearing it, probably because it means there is no chance to fix it or make it better. People don't want to accept a hard truth so are looking for a fanciful lie which is easier to embrace.

The truth with the injuries is that it won't get better until the injuries subside, which could be months if at all. People don't want to accept that.

It's easier to believe it is the manager who is the problem and if we sack him and replace him (which could happen nearly instantly) that all will be well and things will improve. As if some other manager will click their fingers and turn Maguire in the prime Beckenbauer and McTominay into peak Bryan Robson. It's wishful thinking and utterly misguided. It makes things easier as it gives you a sliver of hope to cling on to. But it is a fools hope at best.

This is us reaping the rewards of over a decade of mismanagement. Of have no clear vision, no plan, just short term, reactionary management. Changing their mind and direction of the club with the wind. It has left us with a disjointed squad that cannot play a clear and distinct style of play due to the vastly different profiles of the players within it. Some suit a sit deep and counter style, others a press high style, some a controlled possession style, while very few are truly good enough to be considered top class even in their preferred style. We simply don't have 11 players suited to any one specific style of play.

Now add to that the massive injuries we are suffering and to key players in how EtH looked to play and started build his side around last season and it becomes obvious why we are so poor this season and struggling to play any style of play with some consistency.

That is why it's pretty much impossible to draw any tangible conclusions about EtH this season.

Will he be here next season? Who knows. However, it seems likely that whoever ends up running the football side of the club will likely want someone who fits their vision. If that isn't EtH then he'll likely be replaced. Likewise the restructuring will likely see a shift in the managers role, responsibilities and impact across the club. Whether that is something EtH wants to accept also casts a question mark over his future.

Either way, the worst case scenario for our club is to be forced into hiring a new manger before the relevant people are in place and have started to make the changes they feel necessary. It seems far more likely that if push comes to shove that another temporary manager be brought in while the behind the scene changes are made. Who that is who knows, it'd likely have to be someone who knows the club and is available to step in immediately. Some one like Solskjaer might be considered, or possibly someone like Fletcher from within the set up (that would also give the the opportunity to move him on in the summer, if he is someone whose position might be lost in the reshuffle) . Again this is unlikely to see an improvement in results/ performances, and at best is a sideways step from EtH.

The best thing we can do as fans now is accept that this season is a complete write off. Top four is the aim, but in reality is probably a long shot and should be considered a bonus if we get it really. We need to allow the new ownership to settle in and get their feet under the table and start making the changes that the club desperately needs. Give them the time to set things up right before they have to start making the big decisions. Give them the time to get the right people in, then give those people chance to see how the land lies before making crucial decisions.

Unfortunately a combination of off the field upheaval and ridiculously bad luck with injuries have shot down any hopes of a good season. We just need to get through it as best we can and look to make relevant changes in the summer.


9.) 02 Jan 2024 14:13:52
Emphasis on SOME Tumbleweed.


10.) 02 Jan 2024 16:24:04
Thanks for the write up Shappy, it is an interesting read. I picked up a couple points I'd like to go over with you if you don't mind.

1. I don't think we have had the worst injury record this season and certainly not by far, Newcastle, Chelsea, Palace, even spurs and brentford are up there as well.

2. As you said 'Just how willing he is to try something different or change things if it isn't working. While he clearly has a preferred way of playing, he won't try and force it if it's not working and has shown he is adaptable and willing to embrace change' . It appears the way he wanted did not work and the change he embraced he seems not to know how or what to do with it. We continuously play 4/ 2/ 3/ 1 regardless of the opponent or even players available and more than half the time it results in disappointment. This worries me.

You and some others here have a coaching background, that is why I ask if there is something I am not seeing, because what I see is if plan A doesn't work we are at a loss as to what to do next.


11.) 02 Jan 2024 20:47:07
mbd, other teams have had injury problems, but they're given full allowance for that in the media. Newcastle, especially. Even City were shown a fair amount of leeway when they had one player out for a few weeks. We are cut very little slack for the fact we've had most of our first-choice defence out for a large part of the season, and were forced to pair Jonny and a 19 year old together.


12.) 02 Jan 2024 21:36:09
Never said the results would be better. Just that the effort would be there.


13.) 02 Jan 2024 22:12:04
mbd, I have replied but it's been posted as an article [Manchester United Can't Be Consistent Due To The Injuries] high up the page ?.


14.) 03 Jan 2024 10:22:47
Thanks Shaps reading it now.


15.) 04 Jan 2024 00:31:12
There's a lesson in there somewhere Shappy.


 

 

20 Dec 2023 11:12:51
Eds and fellow posters, not Utd related but have you heard that the MLS is looking at implementing two new rules for the 2024, not sure how true it is though:
1. If a player is being subbed and doesn't leave the field within 10 seconds, the player coming on will be made to wait 60 seconds.
2. If a player suspected of injury remains on the ground for more than 15 seconds, the ref will stop play and have the player attended to. When safe, the player will be moved off pitch and made to wait at least 2 minutes for further evaluation and treatment.

Any thoughts on this?

mbd

{Ed001's Note - they actually sound like good ideas.}


1.) 22 Dec 2023 13:28:16
How does the first one work, if a player is still strolling off the field after 10 seconds, does play start again before the sub can be brought on, so that team are effectively down to 10 for a minimum of 60secs?


 

 

05 Dec 2023
New image uploaded to the
Manchester United Player Sightings page entitled,

Click picture for larger image

mbd

1.) 05 Dec 2023 21:47:46
Player power. Ralf was right. Open heart surgery.


2.) 05 Dec 2023 22:10:24
So we should break the cycle and move them on. Absolute disgrace that its been allowed for so long.

Get players that wear the shirt with pride.


3.) 05 Dec 2023 22:18:17
I’m thinking that there must be a common denominator with all of the above, but I can’t put my finger on it.


4.) 05 Dec 2023 22:34:20
I would honestly only keep 6 players

Martinez Shaw Mainoo Bruno Garnacho and Hojlund

The rest can close the door on their way out

The problem is we couldn’t give some of these clowns away.


5.) 05 Dec 2023 23:06:16
As proved with Maguire in the summer…. getting rid isn’t so easy.


6.) 05 Dec 2023 23:27:27
Toxic club, toxic underperforming and overpaid players. The "losing the dressing room" reportage is pure BS.

As for getting rid of players:
Martial: out of contract at the end of the year
Rashford: Stands at in at zero, so a deal should be very doable, even if we have to cover some of his wages
DVDB: only one year left at the end of the season. Maybe a deal can be done
Maguire: similar and surely proved himself to be worth c. £30m
Lindelof: expires end of season. Did Utd extend?
McTominay: stands us in at nothing so should be able to make money

Bigger cost issues with Sancho and Antony (who at least puts in a shift), Varane and Casemiro.


7.) 05 Dec 2023 23:27:41
Tim, getting rid of Maguire was possible, but the club have to accept the reality. If I have a busted fridge that I want rid of I have to pay someone to take it away. Ironically a fridge is probably a better defender than Maguire.


8.) 05 Dec 2023 23:35:06
Blackpool, On ability Rashford should be on that list, but his attitude doesn't look good enough right now. Although One player I would definitely add to those 6 is Mason Mount who is definitely good enough and has the right attitude. I wouldn't judge him on this season given how much s**t has hit the fan at the club. Onana as well I think will prove to be a good signing once we get a settled defence in front of him.

I wouldn't be against Dalot, Lindelof staying as squad players. I also think Amad could be a player, I'd want to see how he does when he gets back from injury.

However, that's all based on the outside looking in. I have no idea what they are like in the dressing room, whether they are in the camp of players working hard or whether they are the ones downing tools.

Every player who is not giving it their best and working with the manager needs to go regardless of their ability. We can't keep one rotten apple, as they spread the rot.


9.) 06 Dec 2023 04:29:20
We cleared a load of apples out of the orchard last year, maybe it is better to cut down the tree?


10.) 06 Dec 2023 05:22:14
Shappy

Rashford biggest flaw is he does not phyicality and its a physical league. You have to be prepared to stick a foot in even if you know you are going to get kicked and it hurts. His technical ability is up there but he lacks in terms of doing the grind work when we have to defend.


11.) 06 Dec 2023 06:58:03
Also Ahmad, he is very one dimensional and lacks a footballing brain.

I'd sell him for whatever can be got.


12.) 06 Dec 2023 07:00:05
Ahmad, I'm not too harsh on Rashford for his lack of tracking back. He has done his tracking back in the past, so we know he can do it. What is unclear right now is whether his lack of tracking back is a tactical decision from the manager or whether Rashford can't be bothered.

If it's the former then fine, if it's the latter then we can add Rashford to the list of players who need to go due to poor mentality.


13.) 06 Dec 2023 08:24:00
When have you seen Rashford tracking back Shappy? For a few years now all I've seen is a lazy, weak one dimensional player, his goals last year papered over some very big cracks. If we can get anything for him i would sell him in a heartbeat.


14.) 06 Dec 2023 08:28:59
As the Rashford tracking thing has been blown out of all proportion literally every footy fan will be watching tonite to see if the effort has ramped up. I'm guessing it will, but if it were effort alone surely the manager will have dropped him. I mean I can remember as a primary school kid being shouted at for not getting back. There's no hiding in the modern game.
Re: Maguire, he's obviously climbed up the pecking order in recent weeks. Let's assume Todibo comes in, at this moment in time it seems more as a Varane replacement. I wouldn't be surprised to see Maguire still here come next season. (sits back and watches meltdown)


15.) 06 Dec 2023 09:17:13
There is a sickening recurring theme present here for which the players should be ashamed! Not all of those managers can be the issue.

Ahmad you defend and champion Rashford to a nauseating degree. He does NOT have the technical ability and is not 'up there'. He constantly runs down blind alleys, shoots directly into defenders, never tracks back and his attitude and effort stinks. He has become a complete passenger we do not have the luxury of carrying.

You do need to wake up and stop trying to defend the indefensible.
I reckon I could probably write your reply for you.


16.) 06 Dec 2023 10:54:47
The number one problem with the dressing room is that it is disparate parts put together by different managers and a transfer team that don’t know what they’re doing. Take recent transfers, it looks like the club is focused on bringing in players that ETH has previous worked with and thinks he can trust. If ETH is fired, these players potentially won’t fit with the next manager. Then you’re stuck with unwanted players on big wages that are difficult to move. Case in point with Maguire and Sancho, players that don’t fit with what ETH wants but can’t be sold, and are unhappy at the club.

This is why you need to start with overarching football directors who decide upon a long term plan for the club: the desired style of football, approach to transfers, the type of managers they think can implement this and the players who can fit into this. This ensures that if managers are fired, there is continuity and consistency in the squad. People are critical of Chelsea, but there is a long term strategy for the club for the next 5-10 years.

At this point I think it’s inevitable that ETH will be sacked. But the club need to have a new team in place to guide long term strategy before they decide on a new manager.


17.) 06 Dec 2023 11:11:59
Don’t believe all you read. Their job is to sell newspapers not print the truth. Of course a revolt in the Man Utd dressing room creates interest. How true is it though? Every dressing room has dissent when form is low, matches are being lost. We are not unique! Get a fit Martinez and Case back, keep playing Kobbie and let’s see.
You think sacking Erik is the answer? Would you have sacked him last year?


18.) 06 Dec 2023 12:46:38
I agree Patrick.
However the new investor and team may have a different vision to eth.
Ed002 has said eth is not easy to get on with and they may want to move in a different direction.
Either way I see a substantial clear out.
I think eth has gone about most things in a way I agree with but if he doesn't suit the new investor and they have different ideas then the writing is on the wall for eth.
That said I'm hoping that he is given the opportunity to continue what he has started but it seems unlikely.
If sjr and team decide to make changes to the coaching team I also don't think they will stop there. The players will go too if they change it won't be giving into player power as they will ship out the lemons too.
Just my thoughts on it.


19.) 06 Dec 2023 13:06:11
The problem has been that bean counting accountants, likely with financial targets to meet, did not dare sanction financial hits to shift players out. It leaves the manager with no teeth to make decisions.


20.) 06 Dec 2023 19:34:59
Fizz

If rash's form does not significantly improve we are not going to be anywhere near top 5 come end of the season.
Love him or hate him he is our most lethal guy upfront.


21.) 06 Dec 2023 20:14:23
Ahmad ?.


22.) 07 Dec 2023 00:14:11
Fizz

Its a season of 38 games and some big games coming up and we will need a blue patch from rashford.

I am outlier to many here. I don't rate people rubbish or great. Most here write players off after 3 bad games. Said a few weeks ago ambrabat is not right physically and he is a lot better than what he has shown. Most here labelled him shi. t and the manager is shi. t for bringing him in. Tonight we got a glimpse of him against a 230 mill chelsea midfield. He will get better.

rash is not garbage as people say here. there is something not right with him but he did turn into a turd suddenly.

I also think mount is a really good player and onana even with his mistakes is a good goalie.

If we get a healthy martinez and cas who I rate very highly even though he has been 3 poor games this year back (must be rubbish, legs gone, over the hill) we will get a lot better. Back the manager and let the season play out.

BTW I said at the beginning of the season it will be one of the lowest points totals that wins the league and I recall people laughed at me. I still hold that view. reckon 83/ 84 wins the league. I think top 5 will be separated by 10 points.

We should win our next game and lose at anfield and the drama will start again.


 

 

06 Nov 2023 16:31:34
Can Antony get any worse? Can't get past a defender, can't cross, only thing he used to do - cut onto left and try to curl it in either gets blocked or ballooned.
At this point I'd take any left winger over him.

mbd

1.) 06 Nov 2023 17:03:38
He could get found guilty of domestic abuse and put in prison, although that might improve his performance.


2.) 06 Nov 2023 17:58:14
Unfortunately he's been one of our worst signings, up there with Maguire and Sancho. Although I'd say the English duo are ahead of him due to the expectations and the huge wages they are paid on top of the huge transfer fee.

I wonder what has happened to him as he isn't as bad as he's currently playing. Whether its the pressure his fee has placed on him, the off-field issues being a distraction, whether he is struggling in a new country with a different culture or the step up in quality and pace in the EPL, or whether he suited playing in an Ajax side that was holistic and team focused and he just isn't cutting it at a United side that is far more individual focused.

Either way it's looking like a lot of money wasted right now and I don't see him turning it around unfortunately.


3.) 06 Nov 2023 18:49:07
Yes he could get worse, he could put as much effort in as Sancho.


4.) 06 Nov 2023 19:02:01
I don't see how Maguire fits that category. I'm not saying he's world class or has been an amazing signing, but to class him as one of our worst signings is unfair.


5.) 06 Nov 2023 19:11:27
Antony is far and away our worst signing ever. He should have been sent off against City. Should have been dropped after his carry on afterwards getting stuck on Doku. Somehow isn't whipped off at half time against Fulham after a complete no show. Much rather see Pellestri or even Diallo given a run in the team instead of this bluffer.


6.) 06 Nov 2023 19:46:16
Hate to say I told ya………BUT Told ya!

I said after max two games he was a one footed show pony and a waste of money. As soon as he pulled off the same trick three times in succession (okay he scored a goal) you could tell he had zero ability with his right foot.

I copped some grief off some, saying Giggs was one footed and Antony was a good signing.

He is a defenders dream! Hell anyone with a modicum of pace could play him off the park. Just show him the line every time and he will run out of space to do anything.

Joke signing.


7.) 06 Nov 2023 20:34:23
He's awful, truly awful. Let Dan james go and he's miles better that's how crap he is. Bad each game and Wednesday was unbelievably bad. doesn't havd a clue what his right foots for.


8.) 06 Nov 2023 22:15:32
One of the worst attacking players in the PL.


9.) 06 Nov 2023 22:47:20
AJH, Maguire was a record fee for a defender, given a massive contract on a long deal (6 years with an optional 7th) .

He has been poor, he is an average defender at best and one who isn't suited to a progressive style of play you'd expect to see at club expected to be near the top of the table.

Remember him heading the ball up rather than out, then running around like a headless chicken trying to correct his mistake, tackling/ hauling Shaw out of the way in the process probably stopping the LB from making the block that would have prevented the goal.

On a good day he's average, on a bad day he's poor. We paid 85m for him. On top of that he was made captain despite showing no leadership. He decided to throw his weight around in Greece and nearly ended up in a cell. While he has used the press to try and pressure his way back into the team rather than rely on his performances.

he's easily in the conversation as worst ever signing.


10.) 07 Nov 2023 04:58:52
Di Maria, Memphis, Bebe, Pogba, Schweinsteiger, Phil Jones, Kleberson, Fellaini, Djemba Djemba, Richardson, Nick Powell, Antony, Weghorst, Falcao.

Shappy, I'm sorry but Maguire comes nowhere near the category of worst signing when you look at some of the players on this list, and I could go on even more.


11.) 07 Nov 2023 05:23:03
DVB is our worst signing imo. I realize the fee is lower but he is just so far off any standard of a pl player. Antony, who have never been a fan off as everyone knows and was accused of having an agenda lol is a gross overspend.

If Amad recaptures his from from last year and can defensively do what the manager wants, he is a much better player imo.

It sucks but we would be wise to cut our losses and sell him this summer but not sure we can afford to take the hit financially. Maybe get lucky and saudi interest comes in for him.


12.) 07 Nov 2023 06:43:01
Shappy

Worst ever signing. Ralphie Milne, god rest his soul and William Prunier. Maguire isn’t in the conversation. I recall you supported Ole very strongly and Harry was a result of Ole.

I would argue Sancho was a far worse signing than Maguire .

I am with AJH on this.

As to Antony, we need to ask what due diligence was done by the club, when spending £85m surely the scouts watched him or did they just give in to the new manager? It does not bode well for ETH this one. It should bring about a change in the clubs direction on buying players, although a change of owners is probably needed to boot out the amateur mob.


13.) 07 Nov 2023 07:32:22
Redman

If Antony was a one off I would agree but this is just one of so many. The club ran like a one hour hotel during WoodWards reign and he was the most toxic. two faced guy you could imagine. Its slightly better today but still well short of what it should be.

We are in desperate need of investment given our finances and SJR coming in can't be soon enough imo. There needs to be some stability around this manager and the players whether we are fans of them or not.

Long season ahead and things will improve once SJR comes in until then its open hunting season on united by pundits, media and you name it. Time to circle the wagons even we don't agree on subjects and issues or players.


14.) 07 Nov 2023 08:06:44
Why is Taibi not mentioned.


15.) 07 Nov 2023 08:28:15
What about these legends

Dong Fangzhou and Manucho or Liam Miller utterly useless the lot of em.


16.) 07 Nov 2023 10:36:10
I'd take Bellion over Antony. I'd even take Zoran Tosic!


17.) 07 Nov 2023 12:19:52
If you are basing your decision purely on talent and impact in the first then yes there are many worse than Maguire.

However, there are far more things to consider in context to paint a true picture. Things like the fee paid and how that sits in the football landscape (world record fee for a defender) and the expectations that adds or removes when judging whether a player has been a success. Wages, also play a part. Antony and Sancho for example cost a similar amount in transfer fees (especially when considering inflation), yet Sancho earns three times the wages of Antony. Considering they have both had a similar impact on the team you'd have to say Sancho is much worse value for money.

Then you have off-field controversies and how they impact the team away from the pitch. Do they bring bad publicity to the club? Do they cause unrest in the dressing room, do they stir up trouble within the squad. Or are they model professionals, players who bring positive publicity, players who help keep the dressing room a happy and productive place, someone who solves disputes amoungst the players.

These things also play a factor into how they are perceived by fans and the wider public.

Is Maguire the worst signing we've made? Probably not, but given his fee, wages, the expectations, his poor performances and impact on the team, his off-field indiscretion in Greece and the fact that he was supposedly a key player in creating a clique in the dressing room under Ole/ Rangnick then he has at least got to be in the conversation. He has also captained our worst ever season in the EPL.


18.) 07 Nov 2023 13:28:08
Redman said he is not in the conversation shappy you need to comply.
??.


19.) 07 Nov 2023 14:06:40
Shappy, sometimes you just may not be right. Maguire is not a great player, but I don't think he is average or terrible. He has had some great games and he has had some poor games.

I would rather we hadn't signed him but as has been shown in this thread, there have been far worse signings than Maguire.


20.) 07 Nov 2023 15:10:41
Straight swap, Antony for Mudryk.


21.) 08 Nov 2023 07:59:48
Mudryk plays on the left and anyone we get associated with who is a left sided winger is generally a nothing story imo.

Leao another one, the Georgian guy from napoli same thing. Garnacho and rash will be here for many years to come imo.

Nico Williams who plays for Atletico Bilbao on the rigth is an interesting player. Speed to burn, technically very good and starting to break into the Spain squad. A major upgrade on Antony.

The Barbosa story is bs imo. I don't think he is good enough at all to make it in the pl and antony looks fast compared to him. Swap deals are generally spoof, can't recall any we have ever done or just many by pl clubs.

I know the manger still thinks this guy is going to make t and show us his best but i highly doubt it.


22.) 08 Nov 2023 12:19:48
Ahmad i'd take a punt on chiesa for the right hand side tbh but we need rid of antony and sancho asap. Maguire tbf at least tries and in the last 2/ 3 games has shone more than the others although that isn't hard. I know clubs generally don't do much in the market in jan but think this year we will bring in 2 and let go of 3/ 4.


23.) 08 Nov 2023 18:32:42
Funky


ed002 said he was available all summer and Juve were looking to move him but teams have questions about how healthy his knee his post acl injury. I agree if you get the old Chiesa great player. Have not watched Juve much recently as we rarely get associated with any of their players.


 

 

 

mbd's rumour replies

 

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27 Feb 2024 15:50:10
You may have watched him more closely than I have Ahmad, I saw him last season and thought this kid has a bright future, but he seems to have not only stagnated but even regressed. At present the glimpses i catch are like a poor version of his teammate A. Doucoure. I do hope I am wrong and he is much more what you rate him as than the picture of Fellaini i have in my head :D.

mbd

 

 

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31 Jan 2024 16:53:56
I doubt our new DOF will be Mitchell or Ward, and some indications from the likes of Athletic seem to have played down Ashworth recently.
More and more looking like maybe an unexpected name, probably INEOS will be ready to make recommendation/ hire once ratification is complete.

mbd

 

 

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17 Jan 2024 11:28:35
Much appreciated Ed.

mbd

 

 

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10 Jan 2024 16:52:54
Fireman, not even chelsea? :P.

mbd

 

 

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24 Aug 2023 13:45:52
I have a feeling that Marcos Leonardo could join us but perhaps in January. Fingers crossed for earlier if at all.

mbd

 

 

 

mbd's banter replies

 

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13 Mar 2024 16:05:57
Shappy, what I am not sure of is who the 36 players you are referring to are, if it is as listed on our official website, then 8 are on loan not 5. Out of the remaining 27, 3 are Kambwala (promoted to 1st team in Dec 2023 as a necessity), Forson and Shoretire (dont remember him playing any minutes this season) . The reason i bring up the these three is who in City's 24 man squad can equate to these three academy promoted lads? Without them we will be at par with city's 24. One less than Arsenal's 25.

mbd

 

 

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26 Feb 2024 08:44:58
No mention of Carrick? lol

Quite a few clubs will be looking for new mgrs. Barcelona and Lpool on top of that list so top managerial talent will be hot demand this summer.

mbd

 

 

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05 Feb 2024 08:53:45
Ahmad, I think that is why he said - 'long way to go. '

mbd

 

 

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16 Jan 2024 16:03:47
Great read, can't wait for part 5.

mbd

 

 

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09 Jan 2024 10:49:02
I thought Rash was poor as well, but I understand some decisions, I feel he is trying to force start a good run of form and probably figured Wigan was a good opponent to do that against and build from there.

mbd