Manchester United

[AgentZero]

veoh or footytube.com

[wrathchild_uk]

veoh or footytube.com

Cheers mon!

[Miggy]

Much love for Ferguson after his interview about Madrid.

[Bammers05]

I just saw this on skysports.com:

Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed his intention to step down as Manchester United manager within the next three years.

Ferguson continued his outstanding record at Old Trafford by securing a memorable Premier League and UEFA Champions League double in the 2007/08 campaign.

The Scot had previously announced plans to retire at the end of the 2001/02 season; however he made a dramatic U-turn in February 2002, agreeing to stay on at the club.

But Ferguson, 66, has now revealed his intention to quit his managerial role at United before he turns 70-years-old.

Guarantee

"I won't be managing here when I'm 70. No, never. I can assure you of that," Ferguson said.

"I won't be managing here any more than three years at the very, very, very most - no question.

"There is a time when you have to think about time for yourself. You know, my wife is getting older and I have to think about that.

"I think she deserves a bit of my time. The older you get, the more guilty you feel about it. What I would like to do in life is travel to places I have never been to.

My decision

"I would love to go to the States and spend about three or four months there. I will still be involved with United in some shape or form. I hope so because I have a good relationship.

"There is no chance of me ever being sacked. I think it will be my decision and [chief executive] David Gill is happy with that."


Source (http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_3607981,00.html)

Your thoughts?

[vanNistelrooy]

Can hardly blame him. He's done amazing things for this club, and he has every right to leave whenever he likes.

[Meyyappan]

Simply delighted.

Edit:Also,is there a chance that he steps down tomorrow??

[skullverine]

Can hardly blame him. He's done amazing things for this club, and he has every right to leave whenever he likes.

Agreed.
It's also likely that CQ will replace him. I wouldn't mind seeing him as our next manager.

[AgentZero]

Simply delighted.

Edit:Also,is there a chance that he steps down tomorrow??

fuck off twat.

[Lord Shrimpeh]

That's fair enough from Fergie. I will of course be gutted to see him go but he's given so much to United he's got a right to do whatever he likes as far as I'm concerned.

[.:jester:.]

id be gutted but happy for fergusson when he leaves. like alot of you said hes done amazing things for this club and one thing i do want to see before he goes is for us to win the treble again :) hopefuly Querioz (spl?) will carry on his success and wont prove to much of a step down from fergy. i am a bit concerned that some of our players will/would leave when fergy does but hopefuly they've built a strong enough relationship with Querioz to stay :)

[Phatmann]

Duo to manage young charges
United will have two coaches to guide the Reds' young charges in the Reserves league next season with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Warren Joyce, who joins from Royal Antwerp, teaming up together.

Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the pair will manage United's second string, as well as monitoring the progress of those youngsters farmed out on loan.

"The two of them will combine to manage the players out on loan and the coaching side of things with the Reserves," revealed Sir Alex.

"It's a difficult job to manage in Reserve football nowadays because you don't have a consistent squad of players - it changes every week.

"It's really a slight advancement of youth football in that very few teams play experienced players, it's all young lads that are involved. That's one of the reasons why we started loaning players out three or four years ago in numbers, rather than just one or two.

"Half a dozen go out on loan every season for us and we have to manage that.

"That can be tricky because the players are in different environments and at different levels when they're on loan which are not the Manchester United environment. But I'm confident Ole and Warren will do a good job."
Source (http://www.manutd.com/default.sps?pagegid=%7BF9E570E 6%2D407E%2D44BC%2D800F%2D4A311 0258114%7D&newsid=6439178)
Solskjaer is the new Reserve team manager.:smug: Potential Manchester United manager when Fergie steps down? Fergie always said he thought Ole would be a good manager and I kind of agree, but I don't think he would be good enough to be manager of Manchester United.

[Jonny2J]

There's more than one United you know.

[Phatmann]

There's more than one United you know.
Yes, but as we are in the Manchester United thread I didn't think it necessary to specify which United I was talking about. :|

[Joel]

There's more than one United you know.

Sorry Jonny, but when you see/hear the name United, the majority of people will think of Manchester United straight away.

[Jonny2J]

Sorry Jonny, but when you see/hear the name United, the majority of people will think of Manchester United straight away.It's still an annoyance though.

[Joel]

It's still an annoyance though.

Yeah.

I guess I would understand more if we were called Chelsea United. Thank God we're not called that, because that sounds shit :huh:

[Top Gun]

In the papers today they reckon Madrid are going to offer 39m + Ramos + Diarra + Robinho for Ronaldo. I would take that.

[skullverine]

Pique is gone. Good luck in Barcelona.

[Zoolander]

Thanks for the memories Pique. :wub:

Gerard Pique is set to return to Barcelona after the Spanish side reached an agreement with Manchester United.

The defender opted to leave Camp Nou four years ago because he felt that he would have a better chance of breaking through at Old Trafford.

However, he failed to establish himself as a regular in Sir Alex Ferguson's side and his opportunities continued to be limited this season due to the reliable central defensive partnership of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

Pique rarely featured in the run-in as United sealed a European and domestic double, and was left out of the squad for the UEFA Champions League final.

He has now decided it is time to move on and has agreed a four-year contract with Barcelona.

The 21-year-old Spaniard, who scored two goals in the Champions League for United, is now expected to finalise his transfer over the next few days.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11095_3616670,00.html

[vanNistelrooy]

In the papers today they reckon Madrid are going to offer 39m + Ramos + Diarra + Robinho for Ronaldo. I would take that.
I can't see Real getting rid of Ramos.

I can see a cash offer plus Robinho happening though.

As funky as Robinho would be for us, I just don't think we can afford to lose the goals that Cristiano brings. If we can get a striker in who can get 25+ goals then maybe (or hopefully Tevez can hit that, as I don't think Rooney is the type of player that ever will).

[Top Gun]

If Ronaldo leaves then the whole system will have to change like when Ruud went. Although if we did get Robinho I expect he'd be given a go in that role.

[AgentZero]

In the papers today they reckon Madrid are going to offer 39m + Ramos + Diarra + Robinho for Ronaldo. I would take that.
Id take it aswell. 39M is still enough to replace ronaldo's goals.

[vanNistelrooy]

Id take it aswell. 39M is still enough to replace ronaldo's goals.
Still, you've got to think about the merchandise side of things (at least the club will).

I'd love to see Huntelaar come to Old Trafford, but I fear he'll end up elsewhere.

[.:jester:.]

according to the site, were looking to sign luis fabiano for £7 mil. which i reckon is quite good considering they say sunderland want £10 mil for kenwyne jones, hopefuly he can hit the 25+ goals mark :)

edit: only thing is fabiano is 27 and jones is 23, so would fabiano be able to adapt to english football at his age? or will he share the same fate shevchenko has? good thing about jones though is that hes playing english football, so hed be able to come on to the pitch and perform almost at the word go.

[AgentZero]

anyone reckon Agbonlahor would work well at united?

[fick]

anyone reckon Agbonlahor would work well at united?

What position? Not sure I could see him in the centre & with Ronaldo/Giggs/nani on the flanks would he be worth the money?

[Hunter]

In the papers today they reckon Madrid are going to offer 39m + Ramos + Diarra + Robinho for Ronaldo. I would take that.

I probably wouldn't to be honest, Ronaldo is simply irreplaceable. I don't care if we were offered £100m for him, he has to stay. We don't need any of those players to be honest, and I think completing the Double this season proved that. We have Carrick, Hargreaves, Anderson and Scholes in the middle, bringing in Diarra will just cause conflict. From what I've seen of Ramos, he's incredibly dodgy at times too, even more so than Wes Brown when I've watched him play.

[Keyser Soze]

Sergio Ramos is one of the, if not THE best, right-back(s) in the world imo.

I really doubt Madrid would even consider making that offer - it's ridiculous. They don't even need Ronaldo. You know in a poll in Spain in which R.Madrid fans voted in which they want Ronaldo, I think it was 60% saying no.

[Joel]

anyone reckon Agbonlahor would work well at united?

Maybe you could get him if you gave Aston Villa; Silvestre and Dong.

[Miggy]

Yeah Keyser is right about Ramos he's a beast. You must have been unlucky Hunter and seen him on the odd game he's played shit (Against Barça possibly) but watch him in the Euros.

[AgentZero]

Maybe you could get him if you gave Aston Villa; Silvestre and Dong.

not a bad suggestions, maybe even throw in a few friendlies to up the attendance a villa park.

[Miggy]

What bonuses would you offer in his contract?

[somegooner]

not a bad suggestions, maybe even throw in a few friendlies to up the attendance a villa park.

I don't think Villa enjoy playing United tbh.

[Zoolander]

Sergio Ramos looks like a gay porn star don't you think?

[Keyser Soze]

Sergio Ramos looks like a gay porn star don't you think?
I don't know, I don't watch gay porn...

[Zoolander]

I was laying a trap. :shifty:

[Lami]

I'd love to see Boruc and Huntelaar at United.

[Guillermo]

Sergio Ramos looks like a gay porn star don't you think?

I know what you mean.

http://www.gfdb.com/images%5Cpictures%5Cplayers%5C sergio-ramos.jpg
http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/3640/n7428858571939040414726tb6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Uncanny :shifty:

I'd love to see Boruc and Huntelaar at United.

:huh:

[Lami]

Yep.


BORUC.




:happy:

[AgentZero]

any catch a read of quieroz's rant ? something about ronaldo being naturalized and spanish.

[fick]

Yeah, made me chuckle. Comparing him to Columbus and something about a small town on the border of Spain & Portugal. Beginning to wonder if he's losing it...

[Guillermo]

Cristiano Ronaldo could make a definitive step in forcing his exit from Manchester United by putting himself on the transfer list. (Spanish sports paper Marca, 0815 BST)

Marca disgusts me.

[AgentZero]

Cristiano Ronaldo could make a definitive step in forcing his exit from Manchester United by putting himself on the transfer list. (Spanish sports paper Marca, 0815 BST)

Marca disgusts me.

quoted in agreement.

[dotty_84]

Aiden McGeady is who could replace Ronaldo, EASY!


.....

[Jonny2J]

Aiden McGeady is who could replace Ronaldo, EASY!


.....:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

[fick]

:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Quoted most definately in agreement.

[skullverine]

the papers say Evra has signed a new deal, £55,000 a week.

[Hunter]

the papers say Evra has signed a new deal, £55,000 a week.

If he agreed for £55,000 a week I'd be surprised to be honest, especially since he was apparently after £70,000. Most starting players will probably get around £80,000 so I'm not sure why Evra didn't hold out for more. However I can't complain, top bloke.

[vanNistelrooy]

Top PLAYER but not sure about bloke.

Always seemed he was holding out for more, which I never like to see in any player.

[wrigh2uk]

Luiz Felipe Scolari has told Cristiano Ronaldo to make the most of the opportunities that come his way.

The Portugal boss is currently preparing his troops for a Euro 2008 assault, but has taken time out to urge his wing wizard to seriously consider any offer from Real Madrid.

Rumours persist that the Spanish giants are lining up a record-breaking summer move for the Manchester United superstar, despite the Red Devils' insistence that the player is not for sale.

Ronaldo has made no secret of his desire to turn out for Los Blancos at some stage of his career, and his international mentor has now warned him not to let the opening pass him by.

"I have told him that in football you cannot live on memories," Scolari said.

"You have to take the opportunities when they come along because they will not come again in your lifetime."

Dreams

While the news that their star player is being encouraged to leave Old Trafford will concern United supporters, Ronaldo's godfather Fernao Sousa believes that the winger has already set his heart on a move this summer.

"I believe Cristiano has taken a decision that he is going to Real Madrid, but he is not going to reveal it until after the European Championship," Sousa told the Daily Express.

"Cristiano knows that Madrid are a club to which you can never say no. History shows that you can lose the opportunity, and for that reason he is not going to say no to them.

"There are very few people who can say they have the capacity to make their lifelong dreams reality, but Cristiano is in this group of chosen people.

"Cristiano has always told me that his objectives in England were to win the Premier League and the Champions League.

"Now that he has done that, he has nothing left to prove. He knows he needs a new challenge.

"He feels his experience in Manchester has made him stronger. But above all, he knows that a train like Real does not come along every day and he would be stupid to miss it."

I know your all bored of the whole Ronaldo saga but this one seems abit more intriging..

[vanNistelrooy]

I don't see why so many players choose to move to Real. They treat their players almost as well as they do their managers. At least at United he knows he'll always be taken care of.

[.:jester:.]

i hate reading things like that, gets me worried and shit lol as much as id be happy for him i dont want him to go, not yet anyway. hes done so much for united, and united have done so much for him, hes part of the family i spose and to see him go would be like watching one of ur own leave home Lmao still, alot of united fans are gonna be devistated if he goes, including me

[Meyyappan]

http://img93.imageshack.us/img93/3282/tevezbx1.jpg

Courtesy of scousers work who belive a new tribe has been found!!!

[AgentZero]

well apparantely the glazers prefer Ron at United even if he wants to move. Like even if he refuses to play they still wont let him go to madrid.

[skullverine]

apparently, Ronaldo's godfather has said that Ronaldo has made a decision to join Madrid.

[AgentZero]

if his godfather is correct and ronaldo has decided to quit united. It will be hard to forgive him.

[Hunter]

if his godfather is correct and ronaldo has decided to quit united. It will be hard to forgive him.

Slightly harsh in my opinion, we all knew that he would be going to Spain someday, it's just unfortunate that it might be slightly earlier than expected. He's been an amazing player for us, an absolute joy to watch.

I'm sure that we can hang onto him for a couple more years though to be honest. Fingers crossed anyway.

[Joel]

if his godfather is correct and ronaldo has decided to quit united. It will be hard to forgive him.

Hard to forgive him? After the last two seasons he has given you, that's a bit ungrateful.

He's won everything he could win at United and he always wanted to play in Spain, it isn't hard to understand why he would leave now. I still think he will stay for next season though.

[vanNistelrooy]

Hard to forgive him? After the last two seasons he has given you, that's a bit ungrateful.

He's won everything he could win at United and he always wanted to play in Spain, it isn't hard to understand why he would leave now. I still think he will stay for next season though.
What about the European Super Cup etc? :)

I think it would be more painful as he has said "I'll stay here as long as Ferguson does" etc. Yeah he's said he'd like to move to Spain one day, but that's more of a loose comment compared to the first.

I just hope we replace him if he does decide to go. Then again I see SAF giving Nani a chance, and splashing the cash on a top quality striker.

[AgentZero]

Its just the way he is leaving that is gut wrenching (if he is leaving).

[Sully]

Atleast he hasn't sent out a message to the Madrid fans.

[Top Gun]

Didn't his mum say he agreed to join Madrid, last year?

If he goes I think he'll do what Zissou said and just use the cash for a striker and put Nani out wide.

[Guillermo]

I'm sure he'd like to link up with best friend Ruud again :erm:

[vanNistelrooy]

Yeah, that'll be funny.

As much as we will miss his goals, I'm confident we can make up for them in other areas, but a TOP CLASS striker is a must.

[Top Gun]

All the talk is that if the deal happens it will involve Robinho + cash coming our way, if there was a player in the world who could replace what Ronaldo does he would be one of them.

[skullverine]

Which striker would you sign should Ronaldo leave?

[Zoolander]

Adriano. :ninja:

[Miggy]

I think it'll be in his interests to stay for at least one more season. Especially if he wants to be named best player in the world come the end of year.

[vanNistelrooy]

Robinho would be a decent signing. I remember how he carried Madrid through the early months of his time there.

[Guillermo]

Which striker would you sign should Ronaldo leave?

Benzema. :ninja:

Here's hoping Domenech doesn't play him at all so his price doesn't inflate :/

[dotty_84]

IMO I can see Ronaldo going to Madrid after he won the Champ League he didn't seem convincing to me about staying.

Still think he's leaving atleast a season early.

How good has Aguero been for Athletico Madrid? Haven't seen him much as i have SHITanta

[vanNistelrooy]

Here's hoping Domenech doesn't play him at all so his price doesn't inflate :/
Or he reveals that he's part English :erm:

[AgentZero]

yeah benzema would be welcomed if ron goes. Ease the pain somewhat. Hes not half english, is he? Then hed be half english of kabyle descent playing for france.

[Hunter]

I'm sure I read earlier today that Roman Calderon of Real Madrid has admitted defeat in attempting to sign Ronaldo. Good news of course, I think Ronaldo is now just holding out for a larger contract despite just signing a new one last year. In fairness after his performances the last couple of years, he does deserve to be the highest paid player at the club. Keep him happy until he leaves for Spain in the future.

[AgentZero]

yeh i just found that article also. Its reassuring to say the least.
Now onto Benzema, some reports (Goal) say fergie is going to make a move pre-Euro.

[Jonny2J]

From a personal perspective I'd like to see Cristiano go just so I can see the old Rooney coming back. The lad who had the swagger, who dominated teams, who took the piss out of defenders, he's still class don't get me wrong. But I prefer the 2004 version of Rooney to the one we see now.

[The Stig]

100M is too good an offer to turn down. Just imagine the calibre of players you could get with that.

Robinho
Benzema
Lahm
Akinfeev

[Hunter]

100M is too good an offer to turn down. Just imagine the calibre of players you could get with that.

Robinho
Benzema
Lahm
Akinfeev

Who says we've been offered £100m for Ronaldo ? :mellow: Speculation is getting quite over the top it seems.

It seems that we're after Robinho anyway along with Chelsea, and we're also watching Benzema. I still can't see us selling Ronaldo, especially after the numerous times Ronaldo has said he'll "stay". We all know he'll leave in the future, but I think he even knows now is not the time, he's just waiting for a new contract offer with higher pay.

[Cobinho]

From a personal perspective I'd like to see Cristiano go just so I can see the old Rooney coming back. The lad who had the swagger, who dominated teams, who took the piss out of defenders, he's still class don't get me wrong. But I prefer the 2004 version of Rooney to the one we see now.

I know what you mean, he does not play the same. He's a more complete player now, better movement, finishing and positioning but he seem doesn't have that "swagger". I think its more to do with him playing out wide more than Ronaldo's presence in the team. There have been times when he makes an incredible impact this season and its when he plays a central role. His problem is that he is too good, meaning his attributes enable him to do perform in roles which are beneficial to the team but not so to himself.

[Top Gun]

I know what you mean, he does not play the same. He's a more complete player now, better movement, finishing and positioning but he seem doesn't have that "swagger". I think its more to do with him playing out wide more than Ronaldo's presence in the team. There have been times when he makes an incredible impact this season and its when he plays a central role. His problem is that he is too good, meaning his attributes enable him to do perform in roles which are beneficial to the team but not so to himself.

Bingo, he has sacrificed himself a lot this season playing out wide for the benefit of the team. He still has a major impact though and was only second in the assist charts behind Nani. Rooney is the player who runs Man Utd's performances, Ronaldo just grabs the headlines.

[vanNistelrooy]

From a personal perspective I'd like to see Cristiano go just so I can see the old Rooney coming back. The lad who had the swagger, who dominated teams, who took the piss out of defenders, he's still class don't get me wrong. But I prefer the 2004 version of Rooney to the one we see now.
So did I, but looking at what we've achived over the last two seasons I'm not going to argue much. If Ronnie was to leave, the old Rooney coming back would be a bonus on whatever silly amount we receive for him.

[Jonny2J]

So did I, but looking at what we've achived over the last two seasons I'm not going to argue much. If Ronnie was to leave, the old Rooney coming back would be a bonus on whatever silly amount we receive for him.Just remember I don't give a shit about Man Utd though. :tongue:

[vanNistelrooy]

Don't you? Always thought you were rather fond of them tbh :)

[manuck]

took me way too long to discover this thread ;)

hope we can get benzema.

and i reckon we should go for lescott, evra was our only LB for most of the season and no quality cover at CB.

gutted pique's gone, but 8/9m for a young player we took from them in the first place isn't bad lol. and look at dunne and snton ferdinand, they've got price tags of around 5m.

hope ronaldo doesn't leave for another 2/3 years at least.

we've got absolutely no chance of messi, but maybe if we go for mcgeady?


can't believe wenger's snapped up vela as well as nasri (almost). where will ben arfa go?



oh yeah and a red could take over the blue half of mancester, lol that'll be hard for some city fans.

[AgentZero]

Dunnes already at the spuds and for McGeady (see previous pages).
Maybe its me but i rate Shaun Maloney higher than McGeady.

[Top Gun]

We've agreed a fee with Cardiff for Aaron Ramsey, he will go back on loan to Cardiff next season. He's only 17 and plays anywhere in midfield and attack, sounds like a good prospect.

[skullverine]

I read that the deal is going to be around £5m to £6m.

[Sully]

You're not the only team who he is in talks with

[dotty_84]

we've got absolutely no chance of messi, but maybe if we go for mcgeady?

I have to say that is the worse divide between talents I've ever ever read.

SAF won't let him go and he would let him rot on the bench, he has the backing and he'd never let a player get bigger than the club think about it I highly doubt SAF would let his legacy be affected by Real Madrid and their blatant shit stirring and Ronaldo whining.

[Hunter]

You're not the only team who he is in talks with

True, but we're the only team he's joining. ;)

£4.5m is the fee with him being loaned back to Cardiff as previously mentioned.

Personally I can't ever remember seeing him but £4.5m isn't too much money in todays market so it seems okay.

[Figо10]

Beckham To Ronaldo: You Should Stay

In perhaps one of the most ironic twists in this dramatic transfer saga, former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder David Beckham has urged Cristiano Ronaldo to stay at United despite overtures from the Spanish capital...

Beckham, now of Major League Soccer outfit LA Galaxy, moved from Manchester United to Madrid in 2003 after something of a falling out between he and manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Ronaldo was bought from Sporting Lisbon that same summer and given Beckham's number seven - formerly belonging to King Eric Cantona and a host of other United legends.

While Beckham could not emulate his United success with los Merengues, Ronaldo has, after a few years of bedding in, grown to be one of if not the best player in the world, sealing that status with a goal in United's Champions League win last month in Moscow, as part of a double with the club's second successive England League.

Beckham has urged Ronaldo to stay with the Red Devils insisting that, unlike himself, the Portuguese is still very much at the beginning of his United career, despite having been there for five years.

"I believe he's at the right club and a club he should stay at because as much as Real Madrid are a great team and one of the biggest clubs in the world, he's only just starting at Manchester United," explained Beckham.

"He's only been there a few years. He's got a lot of people around him who will protect him. As a fan of Manchester United I hope he stays there but who knows?

"It's none of my business. All I'm going to say to him is congratulations on an amazing season. I'm sure he'll be crowned world player of the year and he deserves it."
Guess the message he's tryna get across is: Move to Real when you're 27 :unsure:

[manuck]

i'd rather he stayed, but it looks like he will leave at some point. I'd rather that be later rather than sooner so if we get another 4 years, at the moment that would be good because of the pressure from spain.

i don't think the divide between messi and mcgeady is as big as you suggest dotty, the divide between their respective clubs is, but have you seen them play. they both terrorise the opposition and mcgeady did it against barca. neither are prolific goal scorers, yes messi is better, but mcgeady also has pace to burn and at a higher level around better players he would be so much better - like ronaldo he would develop a lot. as hopefully nani will.

anyway we're unlikely to get either of them, with ramsey coming in for the future and nani and park, and giggs still around for at least another season.


What do you guys think about lescott, LB and CB, and a goal scorer at that. oh and he's english, with this 6-5 rule that looks set to come in.

Ancelotti looks set to leave milan for chelski, hopefully the likes of kaka don't follow, o would love for us to go in for a sly bid of 25-30m. would be perfect to replace (the old) scholes in amid.

[wrigh2uk]

Benzema already said hes staying at Lyon for another season btw



Ancelotti looks set to leave milan for chelski, hopefully the likes of kaka don't follow, o would love for us to go in for a sly bid of 25-30m. would be perfect to replace (the old) scholes in amid.

You seriously think Kaka's going anywhere for that price your must be smoking dog food.

[Keyser Soze]

i'd rather he stayed, but it looks like he will leave at some point. I'd rather that be later rather than sooner so if we get another 4 years, at the moment that would be good because of the pressure from spain.

i don't think the divide between messi and mcgeady is as big as you suggest dotty, the divide between their respective clubs is, but have you seen them play. they both terrorise the opposition and mcgeady did it against barca. neither are prolific goal scorers, yes messi is better, but mcgeady also has pace to burn and at a higher level around better players he would be so much better - like ronaldo he would develop a lot. as hopefully nani will.

anyway we're unlikely to get either of them, with ramsey coming in for the future and nani and park, and giggs still around for at least another season.


What do you guys think about lescott, LB and CB, and a goal scorer at that. oh and he's english, with this 6-5 rule that looks set to come in.

Ancelotti looks set to leave milan for chelski, hopefully the likes of kaka don't follow, o would love for us to go in for a sly bid of 25-30m. would be perfect to replace (the old) scholes in amid.
A very interesting (but shite) post. Above you'll find I've highlighted the points of why you should never post again.

[Miggy]

McGeady on the same level as Messi?

I've heard it all.

[Hunter]

A very interesting (but shite) post. Above you'll find I've highlighted the points of why you should never post again.

I was going to give him the benefit of the doubt with the McGeady comment since he actually tried to back it up with reasons. However as soon as I saw the "Kaka mention" then it was evident that there's a screw loose somewhere. £25m would only get you Kaka's penis.

:ninja:

[dotty_84]

£25m would only get you Kaka's penis.
:ninja:

True I saw that on Ebay :p

[manuck]

I was going to give him the benefit of the doubt with the McGeady comment since he actually tried to back it up with reasons. However as soon as I saw the "Kaka mention" then it was evident that there's a screw loose somewhere. £25m would only get you Kaka's penis.

:ninja:

lol, shit i just weren't thinking. wtf was i on. ok i guess what i was trying to say was that without actually tabling a feesible bid if we were, to a lesser extent, do what r.madrid are doing and see if kaka would be interested in a move. it could stir things up and he has said that he's like to play in the epl one day.
I was way off on the price, but that's the other thing - prices are all over the place in recent years. ;)

btw miggy, i never said mcgeady was on the same level, in the second post i said messi was better, but mcgeady definitely has potential and can improve a lot more by being at bigger club and he is more likely to move than messi.


anyway i was saying to everyone i know 3 years ago that united should buy torres, and of all the places he went to liverpool, couldn't believe that. It was cause we didn't want to pay the money same thing with ronaldinho, drogba & essien etc. I hope we can get benzema though and saha should go with manucho coming in as well and tevez.

any thoughts on lescott, silvestre's geting old but did v.well when he came back at the end of the season, we only had evra there for most of the season.
Brown, neville?, oshea, simpson and hargreaves?, can all play RB. So lescott would be perfect for LB and CB positions.


I reckon we need an AMID as well - cause we don't actually have a lampard/gerrard/fabregas/kaka - scholesy's a CM now and hardly ever breaks forward. Someone in there can really drive the team and make a difference, especially in a 4-5-1, which SAF's played in europe.

[skullverine]

http://www.ccmb.co.uk/fudforum/index.php?t=msg&th=82404&prevloaded=1&rid=0&S=a4fda990103abdd4b2b975c5b543 a2ae&start=100
I've just spoken to Joe Allen(JB midfielder) and he said that Rambo and his agent have been speaking to Utd today and that he is really keen on moving there. It's well documented that Rambo's always been an Utd fan. p.s Joe was hoping that the transfer will be done and dusted in the next week as they're off on holiday to Zante on the 15th! Would it be the 1st time for a Man Utd player to spend his holidays at such a cheapy/blackpool-esque location?

If true, that's good news for us

[Jonny2J]

Put simply, if Madrid were to ask FIFA to turn the same spotlight on Fergie it would open up a can of worms big enough for Bob Nudd to empty every river in the land of its pike population. The only question to be asked about Ferguson and tapping-up is where do you begin?

Let's stick with the last decade and start with the most publicised example: Jaap Stam detailing in his autobiography the precise methods employed by Fergie in 1998 to tap him up when he was still at PSV Eindhoven.

Ferguson wasn't investigated but Stam was shipped out, according to the Dutchman, for spilling the beans.

Remember in 2003 when United tried to sign Ronaldinho from Paris St Germain? Here's what their president Francis Graille said: "Manchester have not played the game in line with FIFA regulations.

"They have negotiated directly with the player. Even if they have got agreement from the player, they haven't got agreement from his club."

In the January of that year Sunderland chairman Bob Murray described Fergie's approaches to David Bellion as "shabby, despicable, disrespectful, arrogant and unprofessional".

And the previous summer United were accused of tapping-up Rennes full-back Julien Escude, after the France Under-21 international player claimed Ferguson had spoken to him on his mobile phone.

Ask Leeds and Everton about the behind-the-scenes connivance with Rio Ferdinand's and Wayne Rooney's agents before they moved to Old Trafford. Ask Fulham's Mohammed Al Fayed why he raged about Fergie "constantly unsettling my players" as he pursued Luis Saha. Ask Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge why he said in 2006: "We have told Manchester United that they should stop trying to tempt Owen Hargreaves. If they don't, then we will have to turn to FIFA."

But best of all, ask PSV Eindhoven's chairman Harry van Raaij about Fergie's behaviour in courting Ruud van Nistelrooy in 2000. Specifically his quote "he has crossed the line of decency".

Then ask him why, in 2004, when Arjen Robben was given the red-carpet treatment at United's training ground while still a PSV player, van Raaij flew into a rage and said: "It is Ferguson's way of doing business. A leopard never changes his spots."

I could go on but you get the picture. Before Ferguson conjures up images of the Madrid dictator Franco he should look hard into his mirror. For him to question the morals of another club when it comes exerting psychological pressure on a player he's set his sights on, is laughable.

To think a FIFA inquiry into deals which haven't gone strictly by the book would put another club in a worse light than his own, is dangerously deluded.

It must be down to the ease with which he has run rings around the petrified English authorities (as currently exemplified by the FA appealing against themselves for bizarrely letting Fergie and his assistant Carlos Queiroz off an improper conduct charge after attacking referee Martin Atkinson and his boss Keith Hackett).

Fergie knows better than anyone that one of the major reasons for his phenomenal success has been an ability to tie up deals with some of the world's best players.

Deals which, for every club in the world, often mean stretching the rule-book to the limits.

Hypocrisy, eh? Bloody hell.

"Fergie knows better than anyone that one of the reasons for his success has been an ability to tie up deals with some of the world's best players":rolleyes:

[vanNistelrooy]

:yawn:

[Jonny2J]

By yawn I'm guessing you mean hypocritical.

[AgentZero]

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1023980/My-heart-set-Madrid-says-Manchester-Uniteds-Ronaldo.html

legitimacy may be questioned as it hasn't be stated from his mouth but through 'close' friends in portugal.

[wrigh2uk]

It was in the Sun too, But like i've always said end of next season hes gone. I really don't see the lure for him to want to move too that fickle circus club Madrid

[Miggy]

I hate to defend Madrid, but let's be honest they're always challenging for the league always playing Champions league football all very much like United. Big difference is Madrid as a city > Manchester. I can see the lure, especially him being Portuguese.

[AgentZero]

well i reckon we should opt for that purported 39M +Robinho, Diarra and Ramos.

[wrigh2uk]

well i reckon we should opt for that purported 39M +Robinho, Diarra and Ramos.

hahahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !

[AgentZero]

no shit man, ive read on many of those dodgy rumor mills that, that was what Calderon is willing to lure ronaldo away from United.

[wrigh2uk]

no shit man, ive read on many of those dodgy rumor mills that, that was what Calderon is willing to lure ronaldo away from United.

Calderon would be out of Madrid so quick it would make Robinhos step overs look slower than Photosynthesis!!! But seriously would be a great deal if it ever happened. When the time comes I think it'll be Robinho and cash

[AgentZero]

yeah? id prefer Ramos and cash. Wed have Ramos in for that troublesome fullback positions and we'll use the cash to buy a winger, striker.

[wrigh2uk]

yeah? id prefer Ramos and cash. Wed have Ramos in for that troublesome fullback positions and we'll use the cash to buy a winger, striker.

Can't see Ramos ever leaving, UNLESS of course, he has a diabolical season at which point under Real Madrid rules your on the transfer market. Excluding Raul of course ;)

[AgentZero]

He'll have a fun time with Ruud again no doubt.

[wrigh2uk]

Robinho one winger, Ronnie on the other, Ruud and Raul up top

Just RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRidculous

[Miggy]

Don't forget Robben.

[AgentZero]

it is RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRReal MadRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRId

[Hunter]

Didn't realise that the Euro 2008 tournament started this Saturday. More so, Portugal are playing Turkey which means that it's likely Ronaldo will have to decide before then as I assume he won't want it hanging over him during the Euro competition.

[ThierryHenry14]

Unless we have all read the signs wrongly and in fact he was just doing it all along to gain a bit of attention, this weekend Cristiano Ronaldo is going to announce his wish to join Real Madrid. Of course he is: if he had no intention of courting the Spanish champions he would have stated simply and clearly a month ago that he was happy to stay at Manchester United. But he didn't because all along he has wanted to go play for the team his mum, his godfather, his agent and his Uncle Tom Cobley and all have been dreaming of him joining since he conducted his first step-over at the age of six months. For the finest player to pull on a red shirt in a generation, United was only ever a stepping stone to reach his ultimate destination. The moment the team in white came in from him, there was to be no holding him. He was off.

The intriguing thing is what happens next. If Ronaldo thinks it will just be a case of contacting his bank to send a wheelbarrow round to the Bernabeu to pick up his first wage packet, he has another think coming. Even with a promised fee of £70million, United are not going to make it easy. If they don't want to sell, they are under no obligation to do so. Alex Ferguson has already stated that he is happy to let the player "rot in the reserves" rather than let him go to Madrid. And since he is under contract for three more years that is an awful lot of rotting to do. He might be decidedly whiffy at the end of that spell.

United have seen a steady stream of players heading westwards out of Manchester to Madrid these past few years. David Beckham, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Gabriel Heinze have all headed there since 2003. But, as Ferguson has been at pains to point out, he no longer required the services of that particular trio. He was happy for them to go. Pleased to bank the cheque and move on. Ronaldo is a very different case. Not only is his skill, his panache, his bravery crucial to United's style of play (as anyone would be who scores 42 goals in a season) Ferguson will not wish to see his multitude of talents being employed for a direct rival. Which, in these Champions League dominated times, is what Madrid are, as much a direct rival to United as Liverpool, Arsenal or Manchester City. Actually, rather more than Manchester City. So the United manager will do everything he can to stand in the way of such a move. In 22 years at Old Trafford, Ferguson prides himself on never letting go a player he wanted to keep. The man has a way of getting what he wants.

So if Ronaldo is obliged to stay against his wishes what then? About ten years ago, Prince, in a bid to release himself from his long-term record contract, changed his name to some incomprehensible hieroglyphic and continually had himself photographed with the word "slave" scribbled on his knuckles. George Michael too spent an age trying to extricate himself from his deal with Sony, refusing to produce any material for them even though he was contractually obliged to do so. Can we expect the same of Ronaldo? Will he have himself pictured in the stands at Old Trafford during matches in a set of handcuffs? Will he fling the biggest sulk since Nicolas Anelka was born? Will he go on perpetual strike? In which case, what would happen if United had a terrible injury crisis, say Nani fell over his own ego in training, what then? Would Ronaldo be expected to step in (or rather step over) as cover?

It could be interesting times ahead in the court of the Lollipop King. But whatever happens, United fans need to start getting used to this unpalatable truth: unless he really is just the biggest tease on the planet and all this dallying with Madrid was just a bit of a giggle, that magnificent goal he scored in Moscow in the Champions League final was the last one Ronaldo will ever net for the club.
By Jim White.
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/feelfootball/article/351/

[Hunter]

Interesting, but obviously just an opinion like anyone elses. It's just annoying me now that this bollocks is being dragged out for eternity, I want to be able to enjoy the Euro competition but I know I won't be able to do so with this lingering over me. Ronaldo has the potential to become one of the greatest players in the last 20 years, and to lose him so soon would be heart-wrenching. In all honesty though, I can see Ronaldo staying for at least another year or so. I also heard that he will remain at this club until Fergie retires, then he'll move to Madrid which sounds fair game considering we'd make a hefty profit from his services and financially.

[ThierryHenry14]

Yeah I think he will go when Fergie leaves.

[Hunter]

Some relatively good news, hopefully it will put some doubt to bed.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11667_3650799,00.html

[Stella Artois]

Some relatively bad news:

Manchester United must face the real possibility that Cristiano Ronaldo has played his final match for the club after the Portuguese winger publicly declared his intention to join Real Madrid at the end of the European Championship.

Speaking from Portugal's training camp in the Swiss city of Neuchatel on Wednesday, Ronaldo made a keenly awaited statement on his future. The 23-year-old stated that he wanted to leave Old Trafford to sign for the Spanish champions if they made good on their promises of world record transfer fees and wages. Spanish media reports have placed the value of a Madrid offer to United at €100m and the player's salary at £15m a year.

"I want to play for Real Madrid, but only if it is true they are eager to pay me and Manchester United what they have been saying they will," said Ronaldo in an interview with the respected Brazilian website Terra. "However, it does not depend on me."

The issue of Ronaldo's future has been the dominant feature of Portugal's European Championship training camp, overshadowing the team's preparations and seeing questions raised about the player's state of mind. Hoping to prevent inquests at national team press conferences and post-match mixed zones, Ronaldo insisted that he would not speak about his choice of club again during the tournament.

"It is important to send a message," he said. "From now on I will not talk again about this until the end of the Euros. It is not worth asking me because I will not reply."

United have repeatedly stated that they will not allow Ronaldo to move this summer, but the club may now have to improve the five-year contract they agreed with the forward in April 2007. Given the scale of Madrid's offer, the player can expect to comfortably exceed the net €10m that Michael Ballack receives from Chelsea each year.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2008/jun/05/manchesterunited.realmadrid

What an utter, utter cunt.

[Miggy]

Well that sucks.

[vanNistelrooy]

I hope he enjoys his time rotting on the sideline.

Why anyone would want to leave the English league, considering how well English teams have been fairing in the Champions League, is beyond me.

[Miggy]

You ever thought it might be about more then footballing reasons?

[Jonny2J]

Almost as heartbreaking as the day Craig Bellamy went on loan to Celtic.

[vanNistelrooy]

I think he already has enough cash, and would have earnt buckets more at United and later in his career at whichever club he was at.

I just think for the quality of football we've been playing, and the trophies we've been winning it's silly to move now. Possibly when this nice little patch wears thin, but not in the middle of it.

[Stella Artois]

You ever thought it might be about more then footballing reasons?

http://www.awooga.org/images/h4bvcvk74bj23w39ki1s.jpg (http://www.awooga.org/)

[Cannon ball]

I've gotta say though, him and Robben on either flank for Real Madrid would be pretty devestating, if it happens of course. They will win alot of penalties.

[Jonny2J]

He might go to Man Citeh.

[Cannon ball]

He might go to Man Citeh.

That would provide lulz, epic lulz, we do need a right winger though.

[skullverine]

Very disappointed.

[Joel]

uhlmGTlEA6Y

Probably would have won even more European Cups if you all were able to sign him.

[Keyser Soze]

Thing is though, he's won everything he wanted to win at United and can't really achieve much more than he already has so I can understand him wanting to go.

Still a complete cunt though, of course.

[Cannon ball]

uhlmGTlEA6Y

Very interesting video. Truely a once in a generation player.

[Keyser Soze]

well i reckon we should opt for that purported 39M +Robinho, Diarra and Ramos.
:laugh::laugh::laugh:

Seriously, please stop saying shit like this dude. I highly doubt Calderon wouldn't even consider losing Ramos in a bid for Ronaldo, let alone all 3 and 39m. Anyone who believes that is just an idiot.

[vanNistelrooy]

I'd like to see Robinho plus some hefty cash that we could spend on a tip top striker.

[Miggy]

Real would be willing to let Robinho go so he could very likely be thrown into the deal. We looking at a world record fee here?

[Dan]

He won't leave. I'd put good monies on it.

[Zoolander]

He won't leave. I'd put good monies on it.

£100? :shifty:

[Rambo]

Shame he wants to leave but unfortunately all good things come to an end. He's achieved everything with us at a relatively young age and wants to move on. Hopefully we get a hefty sum in exchange to replace him.

[Wellzy]

Losing Ronaldo would be a huge blow to United. It is like taking Gerrard or Torres out of Liverpool. I wouldn't call United a one man team, but you have been heavily reliant on him. Plus, your attacking trio of fluid football will be broken, Ronaldo, Rooney & Tevez. No amount of money can replace that.

[Keyser Soze]

Losing Ronaldo would be a huge blow to United. It is like taking Gerrard or Torres out of Liverpool. I wouldn't call United a one man team, but you have been heavily reliant on him. Plus, your attacking trio of fluid football will be broken, Ronaldo, Rooney & Tevez. No amount of money can replace that.
Not at all.

[Wellzy]

It would be helpful to explain. :)

[Original?]

Best case scenario; he leaves for Madrid negatively impacting United and fails to settle in Madrid and fucks up his career and his life as I can't think of a more deserving person.

[Keyser Soze]

It would be helpful to explain. :)
Thought it was self-explanatory but okay...

United have world-class players in just about every area, Liverpool do not. If you take Ronaldo out, Rooney will just excel in his best position and I'd still see them capable of mounting a serious title challenge (not to mention if they got Robinho and cash for another striker out of it). If you take Gerrard and Torres out of the side you'd really struggle considerably to even make the top four.

Basically, you're over-estimating United's dependance on Ronaldo. It's ridiculous to even suggest United need him more than Liverpool need their two best players. And about money not being able to replace the "fluid football", who says it'd go? Of course it wouldn't, I see Rooney just as important as Ronaldo for United.

I'm not saying it wouldn't be a huge blow to United, but if they get a world-class replacement in Robinho AND a world-record fee for a player that is (apparently) no longer happy at Utd - then that offer is incredible and I'd probably bite Madrid's hands off.

[Meyyappan]

Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence over his future by reportedly declaring a desire to move to Real Madrid.

The transfer story of the summer gathers pace by the day but prior to speaking to Brazilian website Terra, little of note had been offered by the Manchester United winger.

Sir Alex Ferguson and United's owners, the Glazer family, are united in their stance that Ronaldo will not be allowed to quit Old Trafford but their resolve to keep him will now be further tested by the player's latest declaration.

Speaking from Portugal's training base in the Swiss city of Neuchatel, Ronaldo admitted, according to Terra, that a move to the Spanish capital appealed.

"I want to play for Real Madrid, but only if it is true they are eager to pay me and Manchester United what they have been saying they will," said Ronaldo.

Message received

"However, it does not depend on me. It is important to send a message.

"From now on I will not talk again about this until the end of the Euros. It is not worth asking me because I will not reply."

On Wednesday, Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon said he would not risk ruining his club's relationship with Manchester United by bidding for a player under contract.

However, now Ronaldo has signalled his intent for a future in Spain, it could be Madrid that make the next move.


From a more reputable skysports.

[Wellzy]

Thought it was self-explanatory but okay...

United have world-class players in just about every area, Liverpool do not. If you take Ronaldo out, Rooney will just excel in his best position and I'd still see them capable of mounting a serious title challenge (not to mention if they got Robinho and cash for another striker out of it). If you take Gerrard and Torres out of the side you'd really struggle considerably to even make the top four.

Basically, you're over-estimating United's dependance on Ronaldo. It's ridiculous to even suggest United need him more than Liverpool need their two best players. And about money not being able to replace the "fluid football", who says it'd go? Of course it wouldn't, I see Rooney just as important as Ronaldo for United.

I'm not saying it wouldn't be a huge blow to United, but if they get a world-class replacement in Robinho AND a world-record fee for a player that is (apparently) no longer happy at Utd - then that offer is incredible and I'd probably bite Madrid's hands off.

I agree wit the first bit. But I think you too under-estimate Liverpool. We only lack width in my opinion. As for full backs we are yet to see Dossena and Degen in the Premier League, so we cannot comment.
As for the other players in Liverpool's first XI i'd say they were equal to Man United.

Reina > Van Der Sar
Carra = Ferdinand (Some may argue, but Carra in a red shirt is immense)
Skrtel/Agger < Vidic. At the moment Vidic is better than the two.
Mascherano > Carrick
Gerrard > Hargreaves/Scholes
Torres = Rooney (Arguably Torres is better)

I don't expect you to agree. But other than the width, United's first XI isn't that superior to Liverpool's.

I stand by what I say, Ronaldo made United tick last season. When he was away at the start of the season with a Suspension, they didn't look the same side.

[Barry]

Best case scenario; he leaves for Madrid negatively impacting United and fails to settle in Madrid and fucks up his career and his life as I can't think of a more deserving person.

Your grasp of logic and karmic justice is a gift.

[Rambo]

I stand by what I say, Ronaldo made United tick last season. When he was away at the start of the season with a Suspension, they didn't look the same side.

Not true. Prior to his suspension, we weren't winning games. After his suspension we won 2 out of the next 3 games.

[Stella Artois]

Best case scenario; he leaves for Madrid negatively impacting United and fails to settle in Madrid and fucks up his career and his life as I can't think of a more deserving person.

Couldn't have said it better.

[Cobinho]

Can't blame Ronaldo for wanting to leave. He has proven himself in this country and its incredible money.

He said its up to Man Utd to sell him. So the only conclusion I can see is that he ends up at Real.

[Keyser Soze]

Cobinho, wasn't that always the case though? I always thought it'd be a matter of time.

Reina > Van Der Sar
Carra = Ferdinand (Some may argue, but Carra in a red shirt is immense)
Skrtel/Agger < Vidic. At the moment Vidic is better than the two.
Mascherano > Carrick
Gerrard > Hargreaves/Scholes
Torres = Rooney (Arguably Torres is better)

I don't expect you to agree. But other than the width, United's first XI isn't that superior to Liverpool's.

That's great and all, and even if I don't agree with that; it's kind of irrelevant. Basically all that's told me is Mascherano is better than Carrick. I could just as easily do random comparisons in United's favour. The original point was: take away Gerrard and Torres from that team, and your left with a fairly average attack and a significantly weaker team, take away Ronaldo from United, and of course they've still got huge depth of talent to choose from; where-as Liverpool simply don't. Don't understand how you are trying to debate that.

[Cannon ball]

Best case scenario; he leaves for Madrid negatively impacting United and fails to settle in Madrid and fucks up his career and his life as I can't think of a more deserving person.

What he said.

[Wellzy]

I still believe Ronaldo is huge for you. The majority of your goals this season came from him. Who was your second top scorer by the way? :)

[Cobinho]

Cobinho, wasn't that always the case though? I always thought it'd be a matter of time.

He probably was always going to leave, the fact that he won the double brought it about sooner.

[Phatmann]

Roque Santa Cruz has revealed that Manchester United are in the hunt to sign him.

The 26-year-old had a scintillating maiden campaign in England, bagging 23 goals following his move from Bayern Munich.

Now, despite having three-years left on his current deal, he is being linked with a big-money move away from Ewood Park.

Speaking in Paraguay, where he is preparing for World Cup duty, Santa Cruz revealed that United were after him.

Santa Cruz told La Nacion: "The interest from Manchester United is real but I'm busy now so my representatives will handle anything if there is a concrete offer."

United are thought to have been monitoring Santa Cruz for a number of months, but they are not likely to be alone in making a move - with Mark Hughes looking likely to show an interest in his former charge.

Hughes sealed his own move away from Blackburn on Wednesday when he agreed to take charge at Manchester City.

And one of his first moves could very well be to go back for Santa Cruz.
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3654488,00.html

Thoughts?

[Original?]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3654488,00.html

Thoughts?

I really hope you don't get him, if he kept up that level of consistency at United I'd be extremely concerned.

[Yossi]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3654488,00.html

Thoughts?

One season wonder maybe? In eight seasons with Bayern, he never scored more than five in any one Bundesliga season. Probably not worth the money he would cost.

[vanNistelrooy]

Reina > Van Der Sar
Carra = Ferdinand (Some may argue, but Carra in a red shirt is immense)
Skrtel/Agger < Vidic. At the moment Vidic is better than the two.
Mascherano > Carrick
Gerrard > Hargreaves/Scholes
Torres = Rooney (Arguably Torres is better)
That's funny, because Man Utd >>>>>>>>>> Liverpool?

We're by no means a one man team like Keyser said. If you look at how many shots Ronnie had this season, many in situations when he really should have looked for a pass, 42 or whatever it was seems a little low!

Also Keyser has a valid point about Rooney. He's been quiet as of late and will only step it up again with Ronaldo gone.

I'm more upset about the manner in which he's said he wants to go. He's kept United fans on the edge of their seats for weeks now, only to come out with this crap.

Oh, and Carragher = Ferdinand :laugh::laugh::laugh:

[Original?]

One season wonder maybe? In eight seasons with Bayern, he never scored more than five in any one Bundesliga season. Probably not worth the money he would cost.

He's always been good for Paraguay though.

[Cobinho]

One season wonder maybe? In eight seasons with Bayern, he never scored more than five in any one Bundesliga season. Probably not worth the money he would cost.

He's always been a good player. You have to consider the injuries and the fact he wasn't used as an out and out striker. He was considered a wonderkid, last season was him proving why people had such high hopes for him as a teenager. More than a one season wonder.

[Wellzy]

Zissou, Man Utd are a better side than Liverpool at the moment, I was simply saying that excluding the width and depth of both clubs. Liverpool's core team is equal to United's core if you are looking at the players through the centre of the park. Liverpool need to strengthen our wide areas but other than that. We have few problems.

[wrigh2uk]

Zissou, Man Utd are a better side than Liverpool at the moment, I was simply saying that excluding the width and depth of both clubs. Liverpool's core team is equal to United's core if you are looking at the players through the centre of the park. Liverpool need to strengthen our wide areas but other than that. We have few problems.

If your core teams so good then why did you finnish fourth? and struggle to finnish their at that??

[vanNistelrooy]

Zissou, Man Utd are a better side than Liverpool at the moment
I stopped reading after that.

[Wellzy]

I stopped reading after that.

Yes, because your ignorant. :)

[Stella Artois]

Carra = Ferdinand (Some may argue, but Carra in a red shirt is immense)

http://www.awooga.org/images/yv65lgxxn1ysqabaw80x.gif (http://www.awooga.org/)

[vanNistelrooy]

Yes, I'm the ignorant one.

"at the moment"

Try

"have been for the past 16 or so years"

[Wellzy]

It always comes back to this, yes you have been unfortunately. I hope that is about to change. The gulf you seem to think there is between Liverpool and Manchester Utd isn't as big as you think. In Houllier's era, we were way off the pace. However, we have a decent side now, with a top draw core team. I believe it takes is one or two more quality additions, preferably on the wings, and we will finally win another title. ;)

[Akineye]

07-08
Manchester United (C) 87
liverpool 76

06-07
Manchester United (C) 89
liverpool 68

liverpool last won the title in 1989, since then we've won it ten times.

Even under Benitez there's been a massive gap and you'd be deluded to argue otherwise.

As for Ronaldo, I said most of it in the last post and aside from this constant will he or wont he that we will be subjected to presumably every day he remains a United player, it really isn't worth going on and on and on about a story which will only be resolved when he leaves the club. He's given us five brilliant seasons and I'll wish him luck wherever he goes, but teams move on. Just like people who said United would never adapt to losing Cantona, Stam, Beckham, van Nistelrooy, Keane etc. £70 million is a lot of money to spend and on the one hand, why not sell Ronaldo when he's had one of the best seasons imaginable and his stock is through the roof. He could have come out weeks ago and said he wants to stay at United, end of. He's not stupid, that's why he's umming and aring and remaining tight lipped about what he wants to do- if he has a good Euro 2008 his price will increase and he'll be paid whatever he wants from whichever team he decides to play for.

On the other hand, it would be absoloutley ace to see Ronaldo crowned world footballer of the year while he's still at United... and that alongside his obvious talent are reason enough to do everything possible to keep him.

He stays, United keep the best player in the world. He leaves, we pocket £50+ million and try to replace the goals we lost. All this getting opinionated and mithered about every nuance of each interview and news story about Ronaldo is a waste of time.

[Yossi]

He's always been a good player. You have to consider the injuries and the fact he wasn't used as an out and out striker. He was considered a wonderkid, last season was him proving why people had such high hopes for him as a teenager. More than a one season wonder.
I'm not saying that I do believe he is a one season wonder, it's just another way of looking at it after all the hype he is receiving.

[AgentZero]

http://www.awooga.org/images/yv65lgxxn1ysqabaw80x.gif (http://www.awooga.org/)
we here at United thread love stella dearly. Im surprised no 0n raised the Reina > VDS

[Keyser Soze]

we here at United thread love stella dearly. Im surprised no 0n raised the Reina > VDS
Erm, that's one of the only accurate ones.

[AgentZero]

do you think? I think Reina makes to many common errors and Van Der Sar is very good shot stopper (from rio especially)

[Phatmann]

Erm, that's one of the only accurate ones.
Get out.

[Keyser Soze]

Last season I think Edwin's been a bit of a liability. Definitely not the keeper he once was anyways. Hardly ridiculous to say Reina is better.

[AgentZero]

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/premier_league/manchester_united/article4076331.ece

well then IF its true he is severing his relationship with fergie slowly, lets hope he has a blinder of a Euro so we can milk Madrid for all theyre worth.

[Calzone]

You guys better hope fagboy doesn't go to Madrid.

[skullverine]

There's no quote from him, only from a source, so I doubt that it is true

[Stella Artois]

There's no quote from him, only from a source, so I doubt that it is true

:mellow:

It's been reported in every single major media outlet that exists.

It's true.

[Meyyappan]

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3654488,00.html

Thoughts?

He would be a fantastic signing if u could get him for 12-18m also he has not yet peaked.

[vanNistelrooy]

Last season I think Edwin's been a bit of a liability. Definitely not the keeper he once was anyways. Hardly ridiculous to say Reina is better.
By last season I hope you're referring to the 06-07 season, as I can't fault him this season.

I will admit in the 06-07 season, towards the end, the tampon in his arse must have caught fire or something because he was all over the place.

[skullverine]

:mellow:

It's been reported in every single major media outlet that exists.

It's true.

Well then, I guess he's off. :(

[Top Gun]

If Reina managed to grasp the concept of catching a cross, he might be able to become better than Edwin.

[vanNistelrooy]

If Reina managed to grasp the concept of catching a cross, he might be able to become better than Edwin.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/42068000/jpg/_42068338_reina300.jpg

lulz

[AgentZero]

nevermind that clanger, there was two of our goals that came from him failing to handle a cross/corner.

[Joel]

I think Edwin has got a way with a lot this season. Sometimes he has come out to punch the ball and completely missed it. I even remember Rio shouting at him for this on one occasion. Then there is his dodgey kicking also. But for some reason, players never capitalise on his mistakes. He's pretty lucky.

But to be honest, Cech has looked a bit off his game a few times this season too.

[skullverine]

I think Edwin has got a way with a lot this season. Sometimes he has come out to punch the ball and completely missed it. I even remember Rio shouting at him for this on one occasion. Then there is his dodgey kicking also. But for some reason, players never capitalise on his mistakes. He's pretty lucky.

But to be honest, Cech has looked a bit off his game a few times this season too.
I think that was because he had a groin injury,where he did little/no training in that week. If I remember that correctly

[Keyser Soze]

By last season I hope you're referring to the 06-07 season, as I can't fault him this season.

I will admit in the 06-07 season, towards the end, the tampon in his arse must have caught fire or something because he was all over the place.
Well then you must have had your eyes closed, he's constantly parrying into the danger area. Joel summed it up pretty much.

And Cech has still got us out of jail on countless occasions.

[Top Gun]

Well he made the Champions League winning save so we're not going to be too upset.

[Joel]

Well then you must have had your eyes closed, he's constantly parrying into the danger area. Joel summed it up pretty much.

And Cech has still got us out of jail on countless occasions.

Of course. But he has made some errors. He's had a lot of other injuries since the skull injury, so I guess we can cut him some slack. I guess this isn't the thread to talk about Pter Cech though, so I'll stop.

Well he made the Champions League winning save so we're not going to be too upset.

Clearly just a retaliation comment, but whatever...

[Guillermo]

Then there is his dodgey kicking also.

That's usually from when we have Wes or O'Shea in the middle and they keep passing it onto Edwin's left foot. :doh:

Anyways, if Ronaldo is to leave this summer for Madrid, what price do people reastically think it will be? I presume a world record fee, as we won't sell him for anything less, but at what stage will be it good business for Madrid and at what stage does it become United robbing Real blind?

[Top Gun]

I reckon we would see a World Record fee also, unless the reports saying Robinho is going to be involved are true, though we would probably still get £20m+ with him too.

[Keyser Soze]

Even with Robinho (who I'd say is valued around 25m) included, I could see you getting a good 30m out of it too. Without any player exchanges though, I expect something around the 60m mark. Madness.

[vanNistelrooy]

Well then you must have had your eyes closed, he's constantly parrying into the danger area. Joel summed it up pretty much.
Really? I must have been watching a different van der Sar then.

I really am trying to cast my mind back to goals that have been a fault of his, or one he could have really done better with.

If you can remind me of some then I'll take what I said back, but in all honesty I can't recall any.

Kuscrap on the other hand :realmad:

[dotty_84]

If I was Man Utd I'd ask for 50 Million + Robinho(25m)

Didn't Real say they had 100 million to spend. Ronaldo would love to be considered as a combined value of say 75m it'd boost his ego a little more than it is. If they reject that i could see him being annoyed.

I'd rob Real to fuck though.

[AgentZero]

That's usually from when we have Wes or O'Shea in the middle and they keep passing it onto Edwin's left foot. :doh:

Anyways, if Ronaldo is to leave this summer for Madrid, what price do people reastically think it will be? I presume a world record fee, as we won't sell him for anything less, but at what stage will be it good business for Madrid and at what stage does it become United robbing Real blind?

is tehre such a thing as robbing real blind. They did willlingly set the world record fee two seasons running, it isn't stealing if its voluntary:ninja: :shifty:

as for the price 75M would be great (without exchanges)

[dotty_84]

Lol I'd think so because Ronaldo is as good as he because of Man Utd, I'm pretty sure he'll be a great player but If he leaves he'd lose out on growing to even better standards.

Robinho is just as good on the ball problem is he's not as good a finisher as Ronaldo. And end product counts hugely. Plus with him gone i think the Rooney Tevez partnership would grow stronger.

[AgentZero]

yeah id rather want to see Tevez+Roon develop.

[dotty_84]

Same Tevez is definately underestimated in that team, next season i'm thinking he'll have a cracker.

[AgentZero]

lets bring chris eagles into the fold again :w00t: but in all seriousness lets do hope Possebon has a few starts, he looks quite good.

[Cannon ball]

Best case scenario; he leaves for Madrid negatively impacting United and fails to settle in Madrid and fucks up his career and his life as I can't think of a more deserving person.

Reminds me of this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-GZBeryVeI

[Barry]

Reminds me of this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-GZBeryVeI

What legends those guys are. Finally a few experts that don't kiss his arse at every moment Ronaldo presents it while falling down.

[vanNistelrooy]

Slightly overcritical if you ask me. It's easy to talk so negatively about a player you don't like. Unfortunately they still let people like that on TV.

[Cobinho]

Reminds me of this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-GZBeryVeI

I like what they are saying but it is not a balanced assessment. They said things like "Messi does not ever go to ground" but I've seen him dive and cheat like his handball goal. I see where they are coming from I would take Messi and Rooney over Ronaldo but Ronaldo is the best player in the world at the moment, if that makes sense?

[Miggy]

I like what they are saying but it is not a balanced assessment. They said things like "Messi does not ever go to ground" but I've seen him dive and cheat like his handball goal. I see where they are coming from I would take Messi and Rooney over Ronaldo but Ronaldo is the best player in the world at the moment, if that makes sense?

More often then not Messi does try to stay on his feet. Unlike Ronaldo who'll go to floor quicker then the buttered side of toast.

[Cobinho]

More often then not Messi does try to stay on his feet. Unlike Ronaldo who'll go to floor quicker then the buttered side of toast.

Your statement is true but what they said about Messi was false. They seemed to be blinded by hate, the tone in which they spoke about Ronaldo devalued some good points they raised.

[Miggy]

It is a strange one, why is Ronaldo hated by many? I have nothing against him but he does annoy me at times to watch.

[AgentZero]

It is a strange one, why is Ronaldo hated by many? I have nothing against him but he does annoy me at times to watch.
couple of factors
show pony when he first came, no end product + wc incident + plays for united + diving, play acting, over exhuberant appeals = the most hated man in the prem.iership

[Hunter]

couple of factors
show pony when he first came, no end product + wc incident + plays for united + diving, play acting, over exhuberant appeals = the most hated man in the prem.iership

You forget to mention "+ amazing talent". ;)

[wrigh2uk]

Only reason people hate Ronaldo is hes a cocky fuck, but when your him at present your allowed to be.

Messi doesn't come across as cocky, infact he the little guy comes across as very humble.

People always hate cocky sportsmen

Mayweather
Prince Naseem
Ibrahimovic

[PESFan92]

So...Who here thinks Ronaldo will leave?

I think he will leave for a price of about £70M - £85M. The thing is though, one day the papers so Real & Ronaldo have agreeded terms, the next says, Barca are interested, the next day, his staying, so its very hard to say whether he will leave.

[vanNistelrooy]

As the player has apparently expressed a desire to join Real, I can't see Real offering anywhere near that much. I mean why offer that much for a player who doesn't want to stay at the club, as although the Glazers have said they would let him rot, they won't. If they're about making money like we think they are, they'd rather get £x in for a player rather than pay him hundreds of thousands of pounds to do nothing.

If he does want to go, Robinho plus a decent sum would be a good deal IMO.

[Top Gun]

There's been a statement on the Official Website that we're reporting Real to FIFA, over the Ronaldo saga. :laugh:

Also Louis wants to stay which I wouldn't mind if he could actually get fit.

[Zoolander]

This made me lol.

"Why don't we hire a newspaper to print articles saying we've signed him until it actually becomes a reality?"

Because we have ethics.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A37068753

[wrigh2uk]

There's been a statement on the Official Website that we're reporting Real to FIFA, over the Ronaldo saga. :laugh:

.

A slap on the wrist it is then and a fine that Calderon will be able to pay out of his coin purse.

[Guillermo]

Also Louis wants to stay which I wouldn't mind if he could actually get fit.
I wish he'd fuck off back to France already.

[nath_scfc]

I wish he'd fuck off back to France already.

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/5940/hasidicjewiy5.jpg

Saha, schmaha.

[AgentZero]

As the player has apparently expressed a desire to join Real, I can't see Real offering anywhere near that much. I mean why offer that much for a player who doesn't want to stay at the club, as although the Glazers have said they would let him rot, they won't. If they're about making money like we think they are, they'd rather get £x in for a player rather than pay him hundreds of thousands of pounds to do nothing.

If he does want to go, Robinho plus a decent sum would be a good deal IMO.

the player wants to go the club doesnt want sell. So 75+ is in order and sneaky one involving Ramos.

[Hunter]

I think this whole saga is a perfect example of players having far too much control nowadays. Only a few years ago did the clubs have control over the players and there was a mutual respect, but today, every player under the sun wants to re-negotiate their contract if they've had a string of 6 good games, it's ridiculous.

[vanNistelrooy]

What's to stop a player from leaving though? If I want to leave my job I leave, I don't get kept here against my will. Fees should be determined by Football Associations, that way you wouldn't get scenarios like this.

[Stella Artois]

Just to let you know, and there's certainly no gloating as I'd much rather we'd sign a few more experienced players, but Aaron Ramsey has decided to join us instead of you lot and Everton.

[vanNistelrooy]

If it means we can put the money towards a decent striker then I'm all for it.

Possibly can't see himself breaking into our midfield, but sees an opportunity now Flamini has left?

[AgentZero]

yeah can not see ramsey breaking into the first team a better choice for him anyways.

EDIT: Well its been stated on the club website that Saha is going to be used as a transfer sweetner, putting rest to his hopes of playing for united again. He is also apparantely keen on playing back in the ligue 1 more than in the prem.iership.

[Miggy]

Press here are saying that once the Euros are finished Real will make an offer of 80 million euros. Works out just over 60 million pounds.

[AgentZero]

come on madrid hes worth 75!

[Stella Artois]

A slap on the wrist it is then and a fine that Calderon will be able to pay out of his coin purse.

Ah, because it's not as if United have ever tapped anyone up, is it?

Fucking pathetic.

[AgentZero]

For a review of a similar arguement see chelsea thread.
I also seem to think that our frustration shouldn't be vented at madrid, they seem like a scapegoat as it should be directed at Mendes (agent) and Ronaldo.

[vanNistelrooy]

Personally I blame Ashley Cole.

[Meyyappan]

Ah, because it's not as if United have ever tapped anyone up, is it?

Fucking pathetic.

Stam comes to mind

[AgentZero]

Bravo

[Keyser Soze]

Stam comes to mind
You're a quick one.

[skullverine]

Personally I blame Ashley Cole.

I blame Heinze

[vanNistelrooy]

Bravo
No, he went to Leeds for a bit, possibly only on loan too.

Also involving Real Madrid.

Dun dun duuuuuuuuuuuuun!

[skullverine]

Evra finally signs a new deal until 2012

[Hunter]

Yeah, just had a look on the United site, here's the details:

Evra puts pen to paper

Manchester United is pleased to announce French full-back Patrice Evra has signed a four-year extension to his contract, keeping him at the club until at least June 2012.

Sir Alex said: “Patrice has been a key part of the Club’s success in the last two seasons. He's developed into one of the best full-backs in world football and his infectious personality has helped build the incredible team spirit that exists at Old Trafford.”

Evra, 27, was delighted to pledge his future to United, claiming "the last two-and-a-half seasons have been the start of a dream".

"It's a pleasure and an honour to be part of this fantastic side and to be coached by Sir Alex Ferguson and his staff," he said. "United is more than a club – it’s a family I am proud to be a part of and that's why it's always been a first choice for me.

“I declared when I arrived that I was coming here not just to play but to win, and United is the ideal place to realise such a dream. It's a privilege to play in front of our fantastic fans and I'm sure the success we've earned in the last two seasons confirms the history of this club and will be the start of something even more special.”

Just glad it's out the way, he was always going to sign, and for the rumoured £55,000 it's an amazing coup. In comparison to other squad members and players from around Europe, I'd have been expecting to give him around £75,000 a week. I just glanced at his records for United, and I'm amazed that he's only managed 2 goals from 98 appearances, especially with the way he attacks the game.

[AgentZero]

always been a fan of evra ever since he was at monaco and this great news.

[wrigh2uk]

Ah, because it's not as if United have ever tapped anyone up, is it?

Fucking pathetic.


I never said they didn't :mellow:

[Rambo]

Great to hear Evra is staying, he was awesome last season.

[Hunter]

Is it just me, or does it say there is a page 801, which is impossible to click on ?

[vanNistelrooy]

Is it just me, or does it say there is a page 801, which is impossible to click on ?
It happens with this version of vBulletin.

Noticed it over on the Rock Band forum over a month ago, and yes it will piss you off constantly!

[skullverine]

we're signing Davide Petrucci according to Telegraph.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?view=DETAILS&grid=A1YourView&xml=/sport/2008/06/13/sfnman113.xml

Never heard of him.

[vanNistelrooy]

Sounds promising. But then again so did Rossi, and SAF never really gave him a chance :(

[Rambo]

we're signing Davide Petrucci according to Telegraph.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/main.jhtml?view=DETAILS&grid=A1YourView&xml=/sport/2008/06/13/sfnman113.xml

Never heard of him.

Neither have I, but anything to piss Roma off is cool with me. Roma think highly of him so hopefully he does well but he should've stayed at Roma as his chances of first team football are greater.

[AgentZero]

Ramos flattered by United..he seems like hes doing the ronaldo Jig aswell.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=546229&cc=3436

[dotty_84]

I'd love to see Ramos at Man Utd, he'd really progress as a 'true' class defender under the management of SAF