Manchester United News

Benzema: United keep trying to sign me

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 10 Jun 2012 08:52:00 +0000

Karim Benzema claims Manchester United have tried to sign him "for the past three or four seasons".
Benzema, 24, transferred to Real Madrid from Lyon for £25 million in 2009 having been strongly linked with a move to Premier League side United.
Speculation has continued to suggest the Red Devils have a maintained interest in the France international, and Benzema has confirmed those rumours.
He is quoted as saying in the Sun: "The rumours about my future are common, every summer it's the same that I will be going to this club and that club.
"But I am very happy at Real Madrid and the thought about leaving has never crossed my mind. I know Manchester United have tried to sign me for the past three or four seasons.
"When I was at Lyon they and a number of other English clubs wanted me but could not agree terms with Lyon. Besides, I wanted to go to Spain and I can honestly say I have never regretted that decision.
"I'm still young and I have a contract at Madrid until 2015. I still want to achieve things at the club. I have had a taste of success after winning the Spanish title but I want more."
While Benzema is currently content at La Liga champions Real, he admitted he could one day consider a switch to the Premier League.
He added: "I would never say never about coming to England and, to be honest, I have no real preference in terms of teams. But that is a long way in the future, not something I would even consider at the moment."

Ryan reflects on changing times

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 09 Jun 2012 17:49:00 +0000

"Now we’ve got Carrington and all the development going on there. Sports science is also taking on a bigger place in football and lots of things have changed. The one thing that remains, it seems, is good football."
- Jim Ryan

After more than two decades of distinguished service at United, Jim Ryan spoke exclusively to ManUtd.com about entering retirement.
The 67-year-old has vacated his final post as director of youth football but is still eager to track the progress of the young footballers he has left behind.
Are you looking forward to retirement? Yes, but I think there’s mixed feelings about it. Generally speaking, a football life is a good life so I’m giving up a lot of enjoyable things.
Is it a wrench to be leaving? I guess so but everybody has to retire at some time.
So you’ll miss the job?

I’ve always really enjoyed watching boys play from 14 to 21. I’ve always had real enjoyment watching them trying to use their skills and I’ll still be watching them as much as possible.
Initially, you were working with the Reserves but your role changed a couple of times here...
I came back and coached the Reserves but my title became the director of youth football so I mostly concentrated on the boys who became full time at the club from the ages of 16 to 20.
Is the most fulfilling part of the job seeing young players develop? I think so. It’s all about seeing the boys progress, I guess. In the areas I’ve worked in, you see schoolboys coming in and leaving almost as men and that period, between 16 and 20, is a massively important period in terms of football development.
Are United one of the best clubs for promoting youth? Well, we’re very restricted in the amount of
boys we can take, only those from within one hour’s distance of the Academy at the moment. I think, generally speaking, we probably do develop boys better than most other clubs.
Do we look to ensure we have good characters as well as good footballers? I think so. That probably comes from the manager, Sir Alex, as he insists on good behaviour from the players. If I can say something on the subject, I’m never very happy with those who let the name of the club down. So we’re always looking for that side.
Danny Welbeck is a classic example of a player coming all the way through the system. Is he a good role model?
Well, we have a steady stream of boys who go on to do pretty well. Tom Cleverley would have been in the England squad if his season had not been so blighted by injury.
So are those two held up as proof that the youngsters can aim high? Of course. It helps us to show them there is a conveyor belt to the top if you like. Even the boys who don’t reach the top, there’s so many of them in the Football League who are having good careers.
You took over the reins once from Sir Alex for the Middlesbrough game in the Treble-winning season… He had to go away to a funeral in Glasgow quite urgently so it wasn’t perhaps my usual performance as I took over at the time. I had managed Luton but I don’t think I ever wanted to be a manager.
Of course, the Hatters promoted you from Reserves boss so was it not something you were looking to do? Yeah, they promoted me as they sacked the previous manager. I think it was because they were trying to cut back and sell all the top players they had at the time. We had a pretty good team but it
was something of an economy drive.
Were there elements of the job you did enjoy? I actually did enjoy it. We sold all the senior players like Mick Harford and Danny Wilson, and also Les Sealey who came here to United. So we promoted all the Reserves practically who I’d just been coaching. It turned out to be experienced people like David Preece and a couple of the other senior players but mostly the Reserves who had moved up.
Can you pick out the highlights of your stay at United?
Obviously this period in the club’s history has been fantastic. Quite a few things stick out, like the first Premier League title in 1993. When I left the club as a player in 1969, we had won the title recently in 1967 - but we hadn't won it since then when I came back as a coach in 1991. That first Premier League title was a fantastic thrill but also a fantastic relief, to be honest. I also have to mention the 1999 team and the Champions League win. I’d been present at the previous European Cup triumph at Wembley in 1968 and it was so nice for the club to win it again. That year was special because we won three major trophies and, at that time, I was helping the manager because Brian Kidd had left midway through the season.
Are things very different at the club compared to when you came back in 1991? I think it’s different in a lot of ways. When I came back, we trained and played at The Cliff, where I used to train when I was a player in the 1960s. Now we’ve got Carrington and all the development going on there. Sports science is also taking on a bigger place in football and lots of things have changed. The one thing that remains, it seems, is good football.
You were spotted at the Marveld tournament last week in Holland so you’re keeping in touch? I went
over but didn’t travel with the team. I went on my own accord after having a couple of days’ break in Belgium because I know people there due to the connection with Royal Antwerp. So I thought I’d drive up and watch the kids play. They lost in the final but I think they did very well because they played with some younger boys, one in particular, and came up against a German team that was very muscular and proved too strong in the end. They did well to reach the final though, it was the club's best-ever performance in the competition.
So can we expect to still see you regularly at the youth matches?
I think I’d like to come to Carrington to watch the boys Paul McGuinness had last year because there’s a lot of potential there. There’s potential in the group before who won the FA Youth Cup as well. It’ll be interesting to see how they do. Of course, you also become friends with the coaches and you don’t just stop that friendship.

Japan boss backs Kagawa

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 13:14:00 +0000

"I know Shinji will need results to be deemed a success at Manchester United. But I fully expect to congratulate him three years from now because he clearly has the mental strength and the technical ability to make it there."
– Alberto Zaccheroni

Japan boss Alberto Zaccheroni is confident Shinji Kagawa has what it takes to become a top player for United.
Kagawa is set to complete his move from Borussia Dortmund in the next few weeks, once he passes a medical and obtains a work permit.
He will become United’s first-ever Japanese player and Zaccheroni believes the midfielder can handle the responsibility.
The Italian said: "I haven't offered him my congratulations yet. I've only said to him 'good luck' because this is just the start for him. I know he'll need results to be deemed a success at Manchester United.
"But I fully expect to congratulate him three years from now because he clearly has the mental strength and the technical ability to make it there."
Kagawa himself is yet to comment on the proposed transfer, but Zaccheroni says it augurs well for Japanese football.
"I know he doesn't want to talk about it, but I also think it's an issue you can't ignore either," he said. "I think his transfer is great not only for himself but for all football in this country.
"I've been in Japan for almost two years now and in that short period of time, two players have signed with the biggest clubs in the world – [Yuto] Nagatomo went to Inter and now Kagawa to United. It's proof the Japanese are developing players the right way."

Ryan moves into retirement

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 14:04:00 +0000

Jim Ryan's United carerer:
1965/66: 4 apps, 1 gl
1966/67: 5 (1) apps, 0 gls
1967/68: 8 (1) apps, 2 gls
1968/69: 7 apps, 0 gls
1969/70: 0 (1) apps, 0 gls

United's director of youth football Jim Ryan is retiring after giving great service to the Reds.
The 67-year-old is leaving the club he first signed for back in 1963 after returning to Old Trafford in 1991, following spells with Luton Town and Dallas Tornado.
Ryan also managed Luton and is highly regarded for his coaching skills - even taking charge of the Reds for the home match in the 1998/1999 season against Middlesbrough when Sir Alex Ferguson attended a funeral. The popular Scot worked closely with fellow countryman Brian McClair in helping to develop the young talent at Carrington.
"I think I have a lot of mixed feelings about it," he told ManUtd.com about moving into retirement. "Generally speaking, a football life is a good life so I'm giving up a lot of enjoyable things.
"I guess it's a wrench but everybody has to retire at some time. I'd like to think I'll still come to Carrington to watch the boys. Of course, you also become friends with the coaches and you don't just stop that friendship."
In his playing days, he was a wide forward and provided useful cover for United during the Sixties. Everybody at United would like to wish Jim a happy retirement.

Happy Kagawa keeps counsel

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 17:12:00 +0000

A beaming Shinji Kagawa greeted reporters in Japan on Tuesday but wouldn’t be drawn on his move to United.
The Reds have agreed a deal to sign the 23-year-old midfielder from Borussia Dortmund, subject to him passing a medical and obtaining a UK work permit.
Until then, Kagawa is focused on his international duties and Japan’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers, against Jordan on Friday and Australia on 12 June.
"I am yet to sign the contract," he told Soccer King. "For now, I need to focus on the final qualifiers so we can get good results against Jordan and Australia."
Arsenal’s Ryo Miyaichi, who was on loan at Bolton last season, is excited by his friend and Japan team-mate’s imminent move to Old Trafford.
"It would be great if us Japanese players could bring excitement to the Premier League together. I want to follow his lead. By learning what he is good at, such as playing in small spaces, I would like to become a better player."
Japan captain Hasebe Makoto added: "When I was a child, Japanese players only moved to big clubs in cartoons. It would be nice if more Japanese kids wanted to be like Shinji."

Kagawa can be a Reds star

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 05 Jun 2012 14:44:00 +0000

We spoke to Japanese football journalist Koki Harada, of Tokyo Chunichi Sports, about United's newest recruit...
Was United’s interest in Shinji one of football’s worst-kept secrets?I guess it was. The speculation has been all over the English and Japanese media for weeks and many fans have been waiting for the transfer to happen. Now it’s been confirmed and everyone in Japan will be really excited. There have been Japanese players in the Premier League in the past – Junichi Inamoto at Fulham, Hidetoshi Nakata at Bolton and, last season, Ryo Miyaichi at Bolton. But United is a bigger club than those and Kagawa has the potential to be a big star.
What sort of player is Kagawa and is he like any of the current United squad?United have no similar players. He’s a bit like Samir Nasri or Luka Modric and creates lots of chances, but scores more goals than either of them. His best position is just behind the striker, where he played at Dortmund, but he can also play on the left, though he’s not the quickest of players. I can see Sir Alex tinkering with his formation to play him in a 4-3-2-1. It’s brilliant that he’ll get the chance to work with a wonderful midfielder like Paul Scholes.
What kind of success did he have at Dortmund? He adapted very quickly after moving to Germany from the J-League in 2010 and has been instrumental in helping them to back-to-back Bundesliga titles, particularly in last season’s Double triumph. He’s shown a very high level of performance, scoring and creating plenty of goals. Dortmund were reluctant to let him go but for Shinji, it’s hard to turn down United.
And what about his impact at national level?He’s undoubtedly one of the stars of the current Japaneam, though you’re more likely to see him on the wing as Keisuke Honda usually occupies that role behind the striker at international level. With Kagawa in the side, Japan have an excellent chance of qualifying for the World Cup finals again. Nakata was once our country’s biggest star, then Honda, but now it’s Kagawa.
Can you see him having a long and career at United?Certainly. He doesn’t speak English very well yet and may struggle to understand Sir Alex at first, but if his time in Germany is anything to go by, he’ll adapt to the culture in England very quickly. His time with Dortmund will benefit him and I also think Ji-sung Park will be a big help. Park can be his role model, as an Asian player who moved to United and enjoyed success. The good thing about Kagawa is his attitude: he always wants to learn and that’s why I think he’ll do well at United.
Who will Shinji have spoken to about moving to the Premier League?He’s been on international duty recently and we know that he spoke to Miyaichi about what it’s like to play in England. Japan faced Oman in a World Cup qualifier last week and he also had a chat with their goalkeeper Ali Al-Habsi, who plays for Wigan.
What will the news mean to United fans in Japan?It’s huge. We know United have an enormous following in Japan. I think they’re the most popular European club for the older generation, while they’re perhaps second behind Barcelona for younger fans – though that might change now! You can expect to see plenty of United shirts with ‘Kagawa’ on the back in Tokyo!

Hernandez scores again

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 16:29:00 +0000

Javier Hernandez keeps scoring for Mexico, finding the net again in an impressive 2-0 friendly success against Brazil.
The match in Arlington, Texas, was played in front of 84,519 fans and the Mexicans did not disappoint with a polished performance.
Giovani dos Santos opened the scoring with a cross-cum-shot before Chicharito kept his cool from the penalty spot on 32 minutes after the Spurs forward was fouled by Juan.
The clinical marksman now has 25 goals in 36 games at international level and goes into the CONCACAF qualifier with Guyana on Friday in good form.
Hernandez was substituted in the 77th minute while Rafael did not get any game-time for Brazil.

Reds agree Chevrolet deal

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 03 Jun 2012 16:20:00 +0000

Chevrolet has agreed a five-year partnership to become Manchester United’s official automotive partner.
The U.S.-based car manufacturer has pledged that fans will be at the heart of the sponsorship, with a constant focus on bringing the club's supporters and football fans around the world closer to the game than ever before.
Details of the global partnership were due to be announced at a celebration event at the Shanghai Science & Technology Museum at 20:00 local time (13:00 BST) on Thursday.
United’s chief executive David Gill said: "Although part of two very different industries, Chevrolet and Manchester United share many of the same values.
"Like the club, it is steeped in history, having recently celebrated its centenary, and it has also grown to be a global brand, selling cars in more than 140 countries.
"Above all, it, too, strives to be the best in its field and I am delighted to welcome Chevrolet as our official automotive partner."
Richard Arnold, United’s commercial director, said: "With 659 million United fans and followers around the world, the commitment that Chevrolet is making to football and its plans to bring these fans closer to our club is very exciting for us.
"This is also the first time we have teamed up with a U.S. automotive partner and with the growing popularity of the club and English football in America, we are hoping the relationship will allow us to further expand our fan base in the country."
General Motors’ global chief marketing officer Joel Ewanick added: "Manchester United has some of the most passionate supporters of any sporting club in the world.
"The Chevrolet family is proud to partner with Manchester United and is fully committed to putting these fans at the centre of everything we do."
United’s head of marketing Jonathan Rigby said: "The plans and ideas we have for the partnership are truly refreshing and the benefits will be seen at the grass-roots level among our substantial fanbase as well as football fans generally.
"Chevrolet and Manchester United are two well-known, powerful brands with a worldwide audience and we are looking forward to working with Chevrolet to put together some unique global fan initiatives for the forthcoming season."

Keane: Hard graft got me here

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 03 Jun 2012 12:14:00 +0000

" I've worked so hard to get into this position. I've been in the gym a lot, getting stronger because that's one aspect of my game I needed to improve."
- Michael Keane

Michael Keane admits he is living the dream at Manchester United after rising through the ranks at the club he supported as a youngster.
The 19 year-old defender - non-identical twin brother of Reds striker Will - had a personally momentous campaign, making his first-team debut in the Carling Cup at Aldershot and helping United Reserves remain the top team in the country at that level. After being voted the club's Reserve Player of the Year, the season ended with more silverware after Manchester City were beaten in the Manchester Senior Cup final.
"I've been a United supporter since I can remember, with my dad having a season ticket for years," says Michael, in the new, July issue of Inside United, on sale next week.
"I remember when we were first scouted and I was so excited to come here. Ever since, I've worked so hard to get into this position. I've been in the gym a lot, getting stronger because that's one aspect of my game I needed to improve."
Keane admits that he could benefit from going out on loan next term but it all depends on what Sir Alex Ferguson has in store for him.
"You never know, it could be something I'd look to do," he added. "If the manager wants me to do it, I would be happy for it to happen, but I've just got to keep improving. Hopefully, it'll stand us in good stead and Will and I will have long careers at United."
The Keane twins have played together for England Under-19s in the past week, following Michael's first call-up after previously representing Republic of Ireland. The series of three matches was a
bitter-sweet experience for the brothers however - while Michael's sterling work helped club colleague Sam Johnstone limit the concessions to just one goal and Will scored twice in the opening game, the latter then suffered a long-term injury in the third fixture.
"The one bad thing for me was Keano [Will Keane] going off with his injury,” said coach Noel Blake, after his side qualified for the European Under-19 Championship finals.
"Whenever any of our lads go down, I feel hurt for them. It’s very much a family unit in the England squads and when one of us is hurting, we’re all hurting as well."

Internationals: Welbeck winner

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 03 Jun 2012 08:11:00 +0000

Danny Welbeck scored his first senior England goal as Roy Hodgson's side warmed up for Euro 2012 with a 1-0 victory against Belgium at Wembley.
The United striker, still only 21, pressed home his claims for a starting spot against France a week on Monday with a superbly-taken winner in the first half. After helping to hound Moussa Dembele out of possession, he raced onto a perfectly-timed through ball by Old Trafford colleague Ashley Young.
As Simon Mignolet advanced, Welbeck expertly lifted the calmest of left-footed finishes over his former Sunderland team-mate to the delight of the home crowd.
Young teed up Steven Gerrard for an opportunity that the Liverpool midfielder was unable to convert before Welbeck made way for Wayne Rooney eight minutes into the second half. Young was replaced by Jermain Defoe 13 minutes later and both sides hit the woodwork - Gillaume Gillet for Belgium and Defoe for the hosts.
Rooney produced a restrained but confident cameo performance, emphasising his authority with a relaxed header back to Joe Hart from the edge of the box. The striker, banned for the first two games of the tournament, took over the captain's armband for the final seven minutes when Gerrard was withdrawn.
Another United star, Nani, was also on the scoresheet for Portugal in their friendly with Turkey. The winger smashed a superb cross-shot past Volkan Demirel to reduce the deficit to 2-1 in the second half but the hosts' disappointing build-up to the finals continued with a 3-1 defeat.
Former Old Trafford idol Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty was saved by Demirel and things got worse as Turkey grabbed a third goal late on when Pepe put through his own net after Ricardo Costa's clearance cannoned off the Real Madrid man. To add insult to injury, Nani picked up a bad knock in the closing stages.
Elsewhere, Stephan Andersen was preferred to Anders Lindegaard in Denmark's 2-0 win over Australia.

United returning to China

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 31 May 2012 14:20:00 +0000

Manchester United will return to China for the first time in three years to play Shanghai Shenhua as part of Tour 2012, delivered to the world by DHL.
The Chevrolet China Cup will be contested in the match at the Shanghai Stadium on 25 July.
United chief executive David Gill said: "Our pre-season tour is an important process for the club as it allows us to prepare for the season ahead, as well as engage with our fans and partners in different markets. We had a fantastic amount support from our fans last time we played a pre-season game in China. We were overwhelmed by the passion and excitement generated by the fans who came out to support us and we hope many more join us again this year. This is the first time we will play for the Chevrolet China Cup and I think it marks a fantastic start to what we hope to be a long relationship with Chevrolet."
Wu Dongming, managing director of DHL-Sinotrans, said: "We are delighted to be involved with delivering Manchester United's pre-season tour to China. Using our global network we’ll be supporting the back room team to prepare for the China leg of the tour and ensure that the team are ready to deliver success on the pitch ahead of the 2012/13 season."
Thomas Cook is pleased to offer United fans in the UK the chance to follow the team as they embark on their biggest ever tour. For information on travel options to China and Norway, visit ThomasCooksport.com or call 0844 335 7765.

Chicharito: I'm no superstar

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 31 May 2012 01:11:00 +0000

Javier Hernandez is already a national icon thanks to his exploits with United, but the striker does not feel like the superstar of the Mexico team.
Chicharito has joined up with El Tri to prepare for their two upcoming CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers, against Guyana on 8 June and El Salvador four days later.
With 23 goals in 34 international appearances so far, there’s a certain weight of expectation on Hernandez to fire Mexico to Brazil 2014.
But in typical fashion, he attempted to deflect that attention at a press conference in his homeland on Monday.
"I am simply proud to be involved each time the Mexico squad is announced," he said. "Whenever I’m mentioned, I do not feel differently to anyone else.
"I'm not a star, I feel the same as all my team-mates."

Hernandez, who will be 24 on Friday, burst onto the international scene with two goals at the 2010 World Cup finals, but is looking forward to playing in his first qualifying campaign.
"It’s very important for us to get off on the right foot," he added. "I’ve never played in the qualifiers as I missed them before the last World Cup."
Mexico beat Wales 2-0 in a friendly in New York on Sunday, and also play warm-up games against Bosnia on 31 May and Brazil on 3 June.

New contracts for Reds duo

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 30 May 2012 14:09:00 +0000

Ben Amos and Paul Scholes have both signed new contracts to remain with Manchester United.

Promising young goalkeeper Amos has penned a three year deal which will run until at least 2015, while Scholes has signed until the end of the 2012/13 season.
Having made his Premier League debut for the Reds in January's victory over Stoke City and featured in all three 2011/12 Carling Cup ties, Amos has continued his impressive ascent through the club's ranks.
A commanding presence and an excellent communicator, Amos has made seven appearances during the course of his Reds career to date, keeping three clean sheets, and has also benefited from loan spells with Molde, Peterborough and Oldham Athletic.
Scholes, meanwhile, has completed the formalities of the one-year extension which Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed earlier this month.

Reserves revived Scholes

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 30 May 2012 04:19:00 +0000

Warren Joyce wonders if the seeds of Paul Scholes' surprise first-team return were sown when he trained with Manchester United Reserves last season.
The veteran midfielder's enthusiasm was rekindled while working with the youngsters in Joyce's squad after he initially quit football at the end of the 2010/2011 campaign and enjoyed a testimonial at Old Trafford in August.
Following a shock return in the FA Cup third round win at Manchester City in January, Scholes went on to play a key role in United's bid to retain the title that fell agonisingly short on goal difference and Sir Alex Ferguson has already stated that the 37-year-old will stay on for another year.
“It was good for them to train with Paul Scholes before Christmas,” Joyce revealed to ManUtd.com, when discussing his trophy-winning reserves squad. “To get him involved with training and see how to act properly. He didn’t want to not be top man. His pride wanted him to be the best player and he raised the bar in training.
“I think it was good for him as well. Maybe, he just trained like he did when he was 18 again and working under Eric Harrison in the youth team. He was at them and they were at him. There was great spirit – he was kicking them and they were kicking him!”
Joyce also insisted that Scholes and Ryan Giggs are the perfect role models for the likes of Larnell Cole, Jesse Lingard and Michael Keane - the trio he shortlisted for the Reserves' Player of the Year award. All three players have been at Carrington since an early age and have been able to learn from the elder statesmen at the club.
"You look at the likes of Ryan Giggs or Paul Scholes, for all they have done in football, which is unbelievable," added Joyce. "Yet they are very humble and down to earth. Whilst these lads have done nothing yet, they are in a similar mould to that.
"I’m not saying they are as good as players or they will be but they are normal, humble lads who just want to be footballers and are not that interested in the other things that surround footballers and young players. They just want to work as hard as they can every day."

United is world's most popular FC

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 29 May 2012 16:34:00 +0000

Manchester United has 659 million followers worldwide:
- 71 million in Americas
- 90 million in Europe
- 173 million in Africa and the Middle East
- 325 million in Asia
Source: Kantar, May 2012

ew international survey finds 19-times English champions have 659 million followersThe largest global football follower survey ever conducted has today named Manchester United the world’s most popular club, with 659 million followers worldwide.
The survey was carried out by leading market research agency, Kantar, and gathered 54,000 respondents from 39 countries. The club that Forbes recently named the most valuable in world sport was identified as the favourite team of 659 million followers around the world. Kantar found that football remains the world’s most popular sport, with 1.6 billion followers globally, reinforcing the results of a recent FIFA survey which produced a similar figure.
Richard Arnold, the club's Commercial Director, commented on the long-term strategy that has made Manchester United the number one club in the world’s number one sport:
"Manchester United has built on a tradition of iconic players, iconic teams and iconic achievements – Beckham, Busby, Benfica ’68. Now our games are broadcast to 1.15 billion households globally, to an audience of over four billion a year.
Manchester United resonates with followers all over the world, and it’s their passion and support that means year after year we can continue doing what matters most to everyone at the club: playing attacking football and competing for trophies.
"The growth in our followers since 2007 correlates with what we have seen as we have rolled out our new approach to reaching fans. From the increase in TV viewership from two to four billion last season, to the demand from millions of media subscribers in 72 countries through our media partnerships, to the way the footage of Wayne’s overhead kick echoed around the world on social media, we can see that the connections to the club are growing exponentially.
"With the DHL Champ19ns Trophy tour we have seen that passion from our community of followers face to face in 38 cities across the globe, and there does not seem to be a beach or street in the world where you do not see the Aon and Nike shirt.
"This survey shows that our family of followers is going from strength to strength."

Internationals: Evra comeback

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 May 2012 15:12:00 +0000

Patrice Evra played the full 90 minutes for France in their remarkable comeback against Iceland.
The full-back, wearing strapping on his wrist, is tipped to face competition for his place from Manchester City's Gael Clichy with the Euro 2012 opener against England on the horizon.
Laurent Blanc's side will be in a positive frame of mind after recovering from the shock of going two goals down to triumph 3-2.
England's Under-19s salvaged a point from a 1-1 draw with impressive Montenegro at Rochdale's Spotland. Sam Johnstone, Michael Keane and Tom Thorpe took part in the entire game, although the latter moved from centre-half into a midfield position. Will Keane came off the bench at half-time and forced one good save out of Daniel Petkovic but Arsenal's Benik Afobe snatched the late equaliser.
Noel Blake's young Lions are in action again on Wednesday night at Preston's Deepdale (kick off: 7.30pm BST) against Switzerland with qualification from the Elite Qualifying Round still up for grabs.
Elsewhere, Mexico defeated Wales 2-0 but Javier Hernandez was not involved.

Ashley wins May award

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 May 2012 11:28:00 +0000

Player of the Month – May results
Ashley Young (36%)
Paul Scholes (33%)
Michael Carrick (21%)
Rio Ferdinand (5%)
Patrice Evra (5%)

Ashley Young edged a close vote on ManUtd.com to be named Manchester United's Player of the Month for May 2012.
The Reds played only two games in what was an anti-climactic end to the season – against Swansea and Sunderland – but Young starred in them both.
The winger scored the Reds’ second goal against the Swans with a neat curling finish and was arguably his side’s main attacking threat in that game and at the Stadium of Light.
Young (36%) pipped Paul Scholes (33%) in the fans’ poll to pick up the final monthly award – and his first – of 2011/12. Michael Carrick, Patrice Evra and Rio Ferdinand were the other nominees for May.
In all, eight different players shared the 10 Player of the Month awards during 2011/12. The full list of winners is as follows: Wayne Rooney (August, April), Nani (September), Javier Hernandez (October), David De Gea (November, February), Dimitar Berbatov (December), Antonio Valencia (January), Jonny Evans (March), Ashley Young (May).

Giggs ready to go again next term

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 27 May 2012 07:18:00 +0000

Ryan Giggs has no concerns about putting his body through another physically demanding season with Manchester United.
Giggs, who will turn 39 in November, recently completed his 22nd season of top-flight football and is even eyeing more minutes on the pitch this summer when Great Britain take part in the Olympic Games.
The Welshman told ManUtd.com he’s feeling as fit as ever.
“I felt good against Sunderland,” said Giggs. “It was the last game of the season and yet I still felt good.
“So now I’ll get refreshed this summer and look to go again next season. Hopefully we’ll get a positive result at the end of it. We were so near [to winning the title] this year but sometimes you need disappointments in your career, and your life, to go forward.”
Giggs, owner of 12 championship medals, admits it was heartbreaking to lose the league to neighbours Manchester City in such dramatic fashion on the final day of the season. But he’s confident the Reds will bounce back in 2012/13.
“When our game at Sunderland ended we were just on the pitch not knowing what was going on. And then news got to us that City had won.
“It was a massive disappointment obviously after what had been a fantastic season. Getting 89 points is amazing, really, and it would have won the league in most of the last 10 or 15 years. Comfortably.
“So it’s disappointing to have been so near but then again, there are so many positives to take out of the season as well.
“I think you’re more driven when you lose a trophy. We refer to it as our trophy because we’ve won it so many times and I think when we do lose it, we want it back and we want it back quickly.
"We’ve faced disappointments before and we’ve always come back and that’s what we need to do now. We’ve had so many highs over however many years but you’ve got to take the lows as well. You’ve got to take it on the chin and come back bigger and better next year."

Giggs praises supporters

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 26 May 2012 15:30:00 +0000

Reds to impress

"I was impressed by the consistency of all the young players and the new signings who came in last season. The fans were [also] great... they supported the young players really well."
- Ryan Giggs

Ryan Giggs has expressed his admiration for Manchester United's new generation - and has thanked the fans for backing those who broke into the team on a regular basis last season.
The veteran midfielder understands that life can be challenging for players trying to impress at Old Trafford but he feels there has been plenty of support and patience for the likes of Danny Welbeck, Tom Cleverley, David De Gea, Ashley Young and Phil Jones - even if their form occasionally dipped below the high standards they have already set.
Giggs can speak from experience after narrowly missing losing the title race to Leeds in his first full season as a regular starter and he is convinced his younger team-mates will respond positively to the setback.
"It’s been great for the more established players to see the young players come through and do so well," Ryan told ManUtd.com.
"I know from myself as a young player who came through how tough it can be sometimes. When everything’s going well for the team, it’s all great and everything’s rosy. Then you hit a bit of bad form and it’s more difficult for a younger player because you haven't got a platform to fall back upon.
"[That said] I was really impressed with the consistency of all the young players and the new signings who came in last season."
The backing of the supporters is clearly appreciated by all the staff with the Reds already preparing for another assault on the title next time around.
"The fans were great," Giggs enthused. "They supported us all the way through the season. We appreciated the support they gave, especially to the young players who came through. The fans recognise the young players are still trying to find their way and find their feet at the club. The fans supported the young players really well.
"The support of the fans is always important – when we’re playing at Old Trafford, they can almost suck the ball into the net. They'll obviously be keen for us to do well next season."
The heartbreaking finale to the 2011/2012 campaign has just made Giggs even more determined to extend his collection of league winners' medals to 13 and retrieve the Premier League trophy from across town.
“It’s always hard when it’s on your doorstep," Ryan explained. "To lose against City and the manner in which we lost is always hard to take. But we’ve faced disappointments before and we’ve always come back and that’s what we need to do again.
"We’ve had so many highs over so many years but you’ve got to take the lows. You’ve got to take it on the chin and come back bigger and better next year.”

Man Utd to increase fee for “new Messi” and Hazard on the way

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 26 May 2012 11:06:00 +0000

It seems like Manchester United’s have to go back to the drawing board and increase their offer for the man dubbed “ the new Japanese Messi” after their first offer was rejected.

According to the Guardian, a bid of £13.3 million for 23-year-old Borussia Dortumund talisman has been turned down and the Germany Champions want nothing less than £16m which they even think is a good bargain given the player’s performance this past season.

Sir Alex Ferguson was n hand to watch Kagawa when he scored in Dortmund’s 5-2 win over Bayern Munich in the German Cup final over two weeks ago.

The Japanese has scored 13 goals in 31 league games and has impressed United enough for them to move for him.

However, in some good news for United fans, Eden Hazard seems to leaning more towards United after negotiations with Manchester City seem to be going nowhere.

Busy time for Soccer Schools

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 25 May 2012 15:16:00 +0000

The football season may be over for Sir Alex Ferguson and his players – at least those not involved in Euro 2012 – but it is about to get very busy for Manchester United Soccer Schools (MUSS).
Over the summer, more than 2,000 boys and girls aged eight to 18, from more than 80 countries, will be travelling to a residential training course to learn to play ‘the United way’.
On each course, the youngsters will be taught a range of movements and techniques practised by the United first-team players.
Coaching sessions are designed to allow repetition of these fundamental actions in a fun and exciting way, to challenge and motivate players of all abilities at all times.
MUSS staff are trained and supported to deliver the coaching programme to budding footballers of various ages, abilities and nationalities. And sharing this experience with such a mix of cultures makes these courses the ultimate football trip for any young player.
“It promises to be another exciting summer on our residential courses,” says Mike Neary, programme manager.
“To welcome youngsters from all over the world and see them mix so well together is always great to see, and our coaches always look forward to working with these players.”
As part of their visit, the players will enjoy a trip to Old Trafford to take a stadium tour and learn about the rich history of Manchester United.
During their stay, players take part in age-specific skills challenges, with the winner from each course making an once-in-a-lifetime trip to the World Skills Final, where they will even play on the famous Old Trafford pitch.
So an exciting summer lies ahead for Manchester United Soccer Schools. If you would like to be a part of it or require more information, visit www.manutdresidentialcamp.co.uk.

Manchester United striker Berbatov considers 'interesting PSG project

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 25 May 2012 09:21:00 +0000

Manchester United forward Dimitar Berbatov could be on his way to Paris St Germain.

The Bulgarian's agent, Emil Danchev, has hinted that a move to the French club is a possibility, claiming the ‘project’ at the club would interest his client.

The 31-year-old looks set to leave Old Trafford after becoming disillusioned with life at the club.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted he would be open to offers for the Bulgarian, despite United taking up the option to extend his deal by 12 months.

Speculation about his likely destination has been rife, but it appears a move to the French club may be on the cards, particularly given the money being poured in by the Qatari owners.

Danchev told French radio RMC: "In the press, there are many speculations regarding Dimitar.

“But the truth is, that PSG's project can really interest him because he wants to play the Champions League next year. Plus, there has never been a Bulgarian player at PSG, so it could be good."

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 25 May 2012 08:47:00 +0000

We have “lured Pogba away” from Manchester United claims Juventus chief Marotta

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 24 May 2012 11:27:00 +0000

Juventus general manager Beppe Marotta has defended the way in which they have pursued Manchester United starlet Paul Pogba.

Marotta says discussions with the Frenchman are now in the advanced stages, with the Italians now waiting on an answer from the 19-year-old.

"We have lured him away from Manchester United," he told Corriere dello Sport.

"We respected the rules. Pogba, for his own reasons, didn't intend to renew.

“We informed the club and we are now waiting for an answer. Talks are well advanced."

Manchester United to offload rags-to-riches Bebe after loan

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 24 May 2012 11:12:00 +0000

ALEX FERGUSON may be ruing his decision to splash out £7.4m on unknown Portuguese youngster Bebe two summers ago as the 21-year-old flop prepares to head back to Manchester United after a season-long loan to Besiktas, as anti-corruption police continue to investigate the deal that brought him to Old Trafford.
Bebe's captured the imagination of football fans everywhere in 2010. Having spent part of his childhood living on the streets, the youngster was spotted thanks to the Homeless World Cup and sealed a move to the then Premier League champions for £7.4m just weeks after he joined Vitoria Guimaraes on a free transfer from Estrela da Amadora in the Portugese third division.
However, his career stalled once he arrived in Manchester. He made just seven appearances during his first season at United, scoring twice, and was promptly sent out on loan to Turkish side Besiktas, in the hope that they would sign him at the end of the season.
Things didn't work out that way as Bebe suffered a serious knee injury and after returning to action fell foul of coach Tayfur Havutcu for breaking a club curfew and going to a nightclub. He was fined, ordered to train with the reserves and has now been deemed surplus to requirements.
"United are understood to be prepared to sell Bebe should they receive a suitable offer for the Portugal U-21 winger, but with the player just two years into a five-year contract, he is likely to rejoin the first-team squad this summer unless a buyer can be found," reports.
But the says that it is "highly unlikely" that the youngster who created such a fuss will ever play for United again.
And even if they sell the player, his legacy will live on in the form of the. Although there is no suggestion of any wrong-doing on United's part, they have been quizzed by police investigating his former club, Vitoria Guimaraes.