A blog about Manchester United

Archive for June, 2014

Tunde Folawiyo | Van Gaal Eyes Major Red Devils Changes

Jun. 30th 2014

Tunde Folawiyo As the newly appointed Coach Louis van Gaal prepares to take the reins of the famed Red Devils, the rumour mill is swirling with talks of a possible snag of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Bayern Munich’s star midfielder. With a range of switch-ups sure to occur after Van Gaal’s commitments to the Netherlands’ World Cup venture runs its course, United fans like Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others around the UK are surely waiting with breath that is bated.

Whilst it is expected to be no easy fete to negotiate with Munich, Pep Guardiola may be interested in replacing Schweinsteiger with a faster, younger player. Within the days to come, United are expected to extend an offer to acquire the talented 29-year-old. Ed Woodward, United’s executive vice-chairman, is undoubtedly busy at work trying to secure the new coach’s list of potential trades. Although Schweinsteiger is thought by many to be a Bayern Munich treasure, it is said that United is confident in their ability to close the deal.

Thomas Muller had also been identified as a player Van Gaal hopes to acquire upon his management at Old Trafford. The coach guided the player up the Bayern ranks while he managed the team. This seems highly unlikely, however, as the player recently signed a contract at Allianz Arena, ending speculation of a summer departure. The Forward, 24, had recently made demanding remarks regarding his status with Bayern. He stated his inability to remain complacent, exhibiting a strong desire to be reassured of his place with the team. Whilst Van Gaal may have undoubtedly loved to see the player make a move to United, the club has long suspected Muller’s devotion to Munich.

After suffering a disasterous season under former coach David Moyes, United is ready for changes. Van Gaal’s expertise is sure to prove a source of relief for team players, fans and coaching staff alike. Whilst the roster is under heavy review as to turn the team’s record around next season, pressure is high for current players unsure of their future with Old Trafford. It seems as if no player is safe from the wrath of a new coach hoping to make big changes to a flailing team. Fans of the famed organisation, like Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others around the globe, may have no choice but to trust the decisions of Van Gaal in hopes of a successful season for the Red Devils.

Manchester United Renews Evra Contract | Tunde Folawiyo

Jun. 27th 2014

 Tunde FolawiyoManchester United has announced that player Patrice Evra’s contract has been extended. The renewal takes the Frenchman’s Manchester United career into a tenth season. As fans of one of the most famous clubs in the sport, Manchester United supporters are anticipating a thrilling season with newly-appointed coach Van Gaal leading the squad. Loyal fans such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others may find Evra’s extension to be a wise move for the future success of Manchester United.

With over 379 appearances and 10 goals for the team, Evra served as captain during former skipper Nemanja Vidic’s absence due to injury. Signed by the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson in January 2006, the French full-back has won five Premier League titles, three League Cups, a Champions League and a FIFA World Cup over his career with Manchester United, demonstrating his incredible talent on the field. He has proved consistent since his arrival at Old Trafford, regularly serving as captain.

Aside from his tremendous skill, it’s Evra’s passion that has given him the cult hero status he holds today. He was capped for France five times and served as club captain for Monaco before he joined United at the age of 24. It was playing for Monaco that his reputation as a smart, attack-minded player was established. He showed great success at the club, which won the French League Cup in 2003 before qualifying for the UEFA Champions League final in 2004.

Upon his arrival at Manchester United, Evra made his career debut in an inauspicious 3-1 defeat. But the French player went on to help his team towards victory in the Premiere League before claiming a spot in PFA’s Team of the Year.

While famous player Wayne Rooney proved a team star throughout the 2009/10 season, Evra’s accomplishment of starting in 37 out of 38 league fixtures was not unnoticed. He was again included in Team of the Year on captaining Manchester United to a Carling Cup victory in February 2010. Further demonstrating his talents, Evra played 35 games during the Reds’ 2010/11 league campaign, and later that season his contract was extended yet again, keeping him with the team until the end of the 2013/2014 campaign.

As Evra’s future with Manchester United looks promising, the hopes of millions of Reds fans throughout the world remain in balance. Tunde Folawiyo and countless others with a love for Manchester United may regard the achievements of Evra as a testament to his worth to the team.

Tunde Folawiyo | Ryan Giggs Scores Big as Interim United Manager

Jun. 25th 2014

Tunde FolawiyoInterim Manchester United manager and player Ryan Giggs has garnered the excitement of Red Devils’ fans across the globe as he led them to victory with a 4-0 defeat against Norwich. The newly managed Manchester United has undergone drastic changes in management with the recent sacking of David Moyes a mere ten months after he signed a 6-year contract following the retirement of Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson. Manchester United fans such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others may hold high hopes for the team’s future as talk’s swirl of Ryan Giggs’ potential to permanently replace Moyes as manager of one of the most famed teams in the history of sports.

Having delivered a “spine-tingling” pep talk before the team’s Norwich match, Ryan Giggs is a clear fan favorite as his current status as the longest-playing athlete in the club’s history says much of his loyalty to United. Players and league insiders alike have noted similarities between Giggs and famed player and coach Pep Guardiola, who has garnered worldwide fame for his seamless transition into coaching. As one of the most respected coaches in the world of football, Guardiola’s record of victories is no doubt impressive, leading his team to a third Spanish title and two Champions League victories against United before announcing he would be stepping down in 2012. Guardiola’s stories of success may serve a tremendous source of inspiration for Giggs, who by this time, is undoubtedly eying the permanent position with hope.

As one of the most decorated athletes in football history, Ryan Giggs has long showcased immense talent on the field. With the respect of fans and teammates alike, Giggs the interim management position with pride, eager to impact change for a team that’s endured one of its worst seasons in recent memory. Beginning his career with United during the 1990-1991 season, Giggs currently holds a club record for appearances (2). With over 13 Premier League winner’s medals, three League Cup medals and a number of other esteemed accomplishments, Giggs’s contributions to the sport simply cannot be denied. He was named PFA Young Player of the year in 1992 and 1993, becoming the very first player in the league’s history to be awarded the two consecutive honors. In 2009, he won PFA Player of the Year, demonstrating the outstanding talent he has put forth in leading the Manchester United team to their many victories. Fans of Manchester United, including Tunde Folawiyo, may be overjoyed at the prospect of one of their very own following in the footsteps of Sir Alex Ferguson.

Tunde Folawiyo | Rumors of Van Gaal Transfers Swirl at Old Trafford

Jun. 23rd 2014

Tunde Folawiyo After finishing in seventh place in this year’s Premiere League, Manchester United players and fans alike are eager for change. Millions of Manchester United supporters are undoubtedly heavy with disappointment over the season’s events, prompting a major reevaluation of the roster for newly appointed coach Van Gaal.

In an attempt to return the squad to the glory days of Sir Alex Ferguson’s reign, the new manager is likely to mould the Reds with a group of preferred players by his side. Manchester United fans like Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others throughout the UK and beyond may anticipate news of these game-changing transfers.

It’s rumoured that not even Manchester United’s best players are safe from the chop. Those who don’t mesh well with the new coach’s plans may be ejected from Old Trafford well before the 2014/2015 season begins. Defensive duo Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic have already confirmed their departure from the team, while the future of players Juan Mata and Javier Hernandez remains uncertain. While Mata’s January debut with the team saw good performances during the last half of the 2013-2014 season, Van Gaal’s transfer options have left the Spaniard’s time with the Reds in doubt.

Cesc Fabregas, a long-awaited target from Barcelona, is up for grabs after the team recently announced he may depart from the club for a £30 million pay-out. Additionally, it’s been reported that Van Gaal has shown interest in the former Arsenal member, Andres Iniesta. The arrival of these players would significantly reduce Mata’s time on the field. Goalkeeper David de Gea has voiced his concerns over a possible Mata transfer, noting the player’s importance to the team. Last season alone, he scored six goals and had four assists during his Premiere League play time.

Aside from Mata, others players are also swirling around the rumour mill, with Mexican favorite ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez among them. As one of Manchester United’s fans’ favourites, the immensely talented 26-year-old is sure to attract the attention of a number of other clubs if he is indeed let loose by Van Gaal. With four goals and four assists last season, his contributions to the team are simply undisputable.

As the future of some of Manchester United’s most talented players hangs in the balance, the hopes of millions of fans rest steadily on Van Gaal’s shoulders. Tunde Folawiyo and others with a passion for Manchester United may contemplate the fate of these top players with trepidation.

Tunde Folawiyo | Van Gaal and the History of Manchester United

Jun. 19th 2014

Tunde FolawiyoAs one of the world’s foremost sports teams, Manchester United and their new head coach remain under a global microscope. The newly-appointed coach Van Gaal has taken the reigns of the club after the recent sacking of former coach David Moyes. Based in northwest England, Manchester United, with its long history as one of Europe’s premiere professional football teams, continues to garner the admiration of sports fans worldwide, including Tunde Folawiyo and millions more.

To appreciate the pride of Manchester United is to understand its humble beginnings. Established as Newton Heath LYR Football Club in 1878, the team later changed its name to Manchester United in 1902. The famed Manchester United crest was derived from Manchester City Council’s coat of arms. Today, it remains one of the most recognisable logos across Europe and beyond.

Throughout years of wins and losses, Manchester United fans have remained loyal. Forever embedded in the club’s history, the team endured a tremendous loss when their plane crashed upon take-off in Munich en route to England after a European Cup game in February 1958. Twenty-three people perished in the crash, including eight players. After much mourning, the team, its staff and its millions of fans rebuilt.

As one of the most successful teams in sports history, Manchester United has held many honours, including three European Cups, a record 20 League titles, four League Cups, 11 FA Cups and 20 FA Community Shields. The team also won a continental treble in 1998-99, a wonderful accomplishment for an English club.

In 2012 Forbes ranked United first on a list of the top ten most valuable sports team brands in the world, carrying an estimated value of $2.3 billion. Further demonstrating their popularity, Manchester United became the first team in history to carry a value of over $3 billion in 2013. While the club no longer ranks first, it remains among the most successful franchises in sports history. The club’s outstanding success has led to the establishment of the Manchester United Foundation, a charity with goals to educate, inspire and motivate young people. The foundation continues to forge an impact on disadvantaged areas throughout the region.

Manchester United will forever remain one of the most beloved of English football teams. They have been led by many coaches of extraordinary talent, including Matt Busby and Sir Alex Ferguson, who won 28 major honours throughout a career spanning a quarter of a century. He remains one of the most respected coaches in the history of football. Millions of loyal fans including Tunde Folawiyo may regard Van Gaal as a fine choice to follow in the footsteps of the revered coach.

Tunde Folawiyo | Transfer talks underway at Old Trafford

Jun. 17th 2014

Louis van Gaal 2013Man United’s transfer plans are once again being revamped, following the appointment of Louis van Gaal as manager. Whilst Moyes was said to have been eager to add Cesc Fabregas to the team, van Gaal has insisted that he has no interest in this player, and has now provided Ed Woodward, the club’s executive vice chairman, with a new transfer list, which includes Kevin Strootman, Indi Martins and Jordy Clasie.

Some United supporters, like Tunde Folawiyo, might be a bit confused by van Gaal’s decision to name Strootman as a potential addition to the team, as the midfielder suffered quite a severe knee injury recently, which has left him unable to participate in the World Cup. However, the manager’s other choices should come as no surprise; both Martins and Clasie have been with Holland for the past two years, and are believed to have played a key role in the club’s securing of their World Cup qualification. As such, it makes sense that the Dutch manager is now hoping to bring these two on board at Old Trafford.

Bastian Schweinsteiger, who currently plays for Bayern Munich, is said to be at the top of the manager’s wish list. He has performed well in the past, but since Pep Guardiola was appointed as the club’s new manager, the midfielder has spent much of the last season on the bench. Schweinsteiger is rumoured to be frustrated with his lack of playing time, and so might very well be open to the idea of moving to another club.

Whilst most of United’s transfer negotiations have not yet led to any concrete decisions, one deal has already been struck. Federico Macheda will be moving from United to Cardiff this summer, and will remain with his new club for at least three years. The 22 year old described it as a fantastic opportunity, and thanked Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for signing him.

As a fan of United, Tunde Folawiyo might recall that Macheda started out strong when he joined the Red Devils in 2009, scoring winning goals for his team against both Sunderland and Aston Villa. However, as time went on, he began to spend more and more time on loan, and although he did well during his spell with Birmingham, it seems that the management at United are quite content to part with him.

Tunde Folawiyo | Southampton’s Luke Shaw Headed for Manchester United

Jun. 13th 2014

Tunde Folawiyo Amid heightened speculation, it’s been announced that Southampton player Luke Shaw is headed for Manchester United. Securing capture of Shaw for £25million, the teenager is set to earn approximately £75,000-a-week throughout the five year deal. Devoted fans of Manchester United such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others may be overjoyed at the prospect of this young super talent joining the ranks of the most successful football team in the world.

Shaw’s outstanding talents are undisputed. Born in 1995, he began playing for Southhampton’s youth systems before his first-team debut in January of 2012. His first professional football contract was signed in May of the same year before he became a regular for Southampton. His senior international debut came on 5 March 2014 with a 1-0 win against Denmark.

Born in Kingston upon Thames, Shaw attended school in Hersham, Surrey. A Chelsea supporter, he played at Chelsea’s Guildford development center at the age of eight, but failed to secure an offer for academy place. Later that year, Shaw joined Southampton Academy, becoming a regular for the under-18 team. His first association with first team came during September 2011 when he appeared as an unused sub in a League Cup game versus Preston North End.

During a transfer window in January 2012, reports stated that Premier League teams such as Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City showed interest in the young 16-year-old Shaw, though Southampton responded with a statement from manager Nigel Adkins stating that there were no plans for a transfer of Shaw or any other young players.

Shaw’s first appearance for Southampton first team came during the FA Cup on 28 January. Aged 16, Shaw replaced winger Jason Puncheon, playing the last 13 minutes of a 1-1 third round draw with Millwall. Upon Southampton’s promotion to top flight during May 2012, Shaw become one of a group of four youth players to be presented with a professional contract for a Premiere League return. Football fans like Tunde Folawiyo may recognize this young talent as one of the most promising in recent years.

With his career with Manchester United quickly approaching, Shaw has spoken of his appreciation for the support and guidance he’s been shown by older players within the famed squad. Steven Gerrard, Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard are amongst those who have offered words of wisdom to the young player, encouraging him to soak in the experience. Dedicated fans of Manchester United such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others throughout the globe may continue to admire Shaw’s outstanding skill.

Tunde Folawiyo | Van Gaal’s Coaching Methods Revealed Prior to Official Announcement

Jun. 11th 2014

Tunde Folawiyo As the world of football awaits Van Gaal’s official appointment to Manchester United, rumors of the seasoned coach’s methods continue to swirl, leaving fans and players eager to learn more of the man from the Netherlands. The Dutchman is soon expected to take the reins at the Old Trafford upon leading the Holland team to the World Cup. Though fans of United, including Tunde Folawiyo and millions throughout the world, may be find his coaching methods unconventional, former players under Van Gaal’s leadership have divulged the positive impact of his ways.

As a coach, it’s said that Van Gaal demands loyalty and honesty from his players, employing unusual methods to get the scoop on his players lives both on and off the field.

United players have been warned that once the 62-year-old coach accepts command of the team, they will have a bit of explaining to do. One-on-one meetings with players have long been a valuable coaching tool of Van Gaal. He is expected to grill players about personal matters, including the names of their wives and children and how they spend their off-time. This then leads to discussions of the players’ preferences on the field. Upon conclusion of these talks, Van Gaal will deliver his personal opinion of a player before giving each a four-page manifesto that will outline the strict rules he has set forth for the team, including instructions regarding behaviour and discipline, as well as limits on promotional work and media guidelines. One such rule states that players are banned from using headphones on bus trips as he prefers to communicate openly with his players. Whilst many head coaches are known for their tough exteriors, Van Gaal is far from the norm. Having endured many tragedies throughout his life, including a troubled relationship with his father and his wife Fernanda’s death to cancer at the age of 39, Van Gaal has admitted to an open personality, never hesitating to show emotion in public.

Many of Van Gaal’s coaching traits are reminiscent of Sir Alex Ferguson, including their policies for keeping team talks and dressing room speeches private, away from the prying eye of the media. In addition to this, the coach also employs a variety of technologies to improve his technique. He often uses Google Glass and other innovations to take players through a virtual world to better map out plans of attack. As these methods and others begin to come to light, Tunde Folawiyo and millions of other fans throughout the UK and beyond may invest new hope in the coaching capabilities of a highly-esteemed Van Gaal.

Tunde Folawiyo | Van Gaal Eyes Giggs for United Coaching Staff

Jun. 9th 2014

Tunde Folawiyo As Manchester United fans throughout the globe anxiously await newly appointed Coach Louis van Gaal’s first game at Old Trafford, rumors surrounding his impending coaching strategies have slowly come to light. It’s been reported that the 62-year-old coach is steadfast to keep famed United player Ryan Giggs on board as a member of his coaching staff. Millions of loyal Manchester United fans such as Tunde Folawiyo and others throughout the UK may be comforted by the long-held experience of Van Gaal and the tremendously talented Giggs.

Filling in as United’s player-manager since David Moyes’ April sacking, Giggs has proven himself to be a useful entity in the club’s continued quest toward victory. In a statement to FIFA’s website last December, Van Gaal revealed his preference for keeping one coach from existing staff upon entrance to a new club.

Soon, Old Trafford will welcome a new captain upon Nemanja Vidic’s impending summer move to Inter. According to speculation, player Robin van Persie is a suitable candidate, given his already established rapport with Van Gaal. The coach has spoken openly about the spot, refusing to make captain decisions based on age.

Throughout his extensive career, Van Gaal has managed several teams with Barcelona, Ajax, AZ and Bayern Munich amongst them. Prior to his coaching career, he played midfielder for Telstar, Royal Antwerp, AZ and Sparta Rotterdam. Upon his brief time as coach of AZ, Van Gaal served as Leo Beenhakker’s assistant at Ajax before eventually claiming the head coach title in 1991. With his leadership, the team triumphed over three Eredivisie titles, the Champions League and the UEFA Cup. After a move to Barcelona in 1997, he led the club to dual Spanish league titles and a Copa Del Rey.

Once departed from Barcelona, van Gaal accepted the role of coach for the Netherlands national team, though he later returned to Barcelona after the Netherlands failed to qualify for the World Cup in 2002. After brief stints with Barcelona and AZ, he was acquired by Bayern Munich during 2009.During his first season as coach, he led the team to a Bundesliga title, a DFB-Pokal win and a spot in the Champions League final round before returning to the Netherlands. With these revered accomplishments under his belt, Van Gaal is ready to take command of United. Manchester United fans such as Tunde Folawiyo may find the seasoned coach to be a fine successor to the outstanding legacy left behind by Sir Alex Ferguson upon his retirement.

Tunde Folawiyo | United left in limbo after Moyes gets sacked

Jun. 3rd 2014

The news of David Moyes’ departure from Man United undoubtedly left many fans, including Tunde Folawiyo, reeling. The former manager made a statement to the press David Moyes (201551591)several days after it was announced that he had been fired, explaining that he understood how frustrating this season has been for players and supporters alike.

However, he also implied that the reason for their many defeats was down to the need for a major overhaul. He stated that he and the team had been committed to achieving this overhaul, and that it was the transitory nature of this period which had resulted in their all too frequent failures on the pitch.

Where Moyes intends to go next is still uncertain; however, it has been confirmed by the League Managers Association that he is to receive a settlement package following the club’s decision to fire him. Roberto Martinez, who currently serves as the manager of Everton – a position which Moyes held for over a decade – commented on the news, stating that he was confident Moyes would find another job in the near future. He finished by saying that he and the team would always be grateful for the work the Scotsman had done for their club.

Shortly after United revealed their decision, a rumour emerged that, contrary to Moyes’ statement, the players were not committed to following Moyes’ advice, and were in fact choosing to not play to the best of their ability during recent matches. However, Phil Jones has described this rumour as ‘ridiculous’, adding that none of them ever went out onto the pitch with the intention of losing.

Unsurprisingly, United went in search of a new manager immediately, but they have not yet chosen anyone. Initially, there were two favourites whom the media claimed were the most likely replacements for Moyes; Louis Van Gaal, the Holland manager, and Jurgen Klopp, the manager for Borussia Dortmund. But with the latter having publically stated that he has no plans to move from his current position, it looks like Van Gaal may indeed become United’s new leader, although of course, no official announcements have been made by the club. In the meantime, Ryan Giggs – a player much admired by supporters like Tunde Folawiyo- is standing in as the caretaker, handling all first-team responsibilities.