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Van Gaal fitting in well at Old Trafford

Aug. 22nd 2014

Man United enjoyed yet another win this week; under the guidance of their new manager Van Gaal, they managed to defeat Inter Milan, after a draw resulted in a penalty shootout that saw the Red Devils score five goals – two more than their opponents. Coupled with their recent win Tunde Folawiyoagainst Roma, this match will bring the team one step closer to the International Champions Cup.

The end result of their game with Inter Milan probably came as quite a surprise to Tunde Folawiyo and other fans, as United’s performance during the first half was mediocre at best. Although they succeeded in controlling the ball most of the time, they failed to create any real scoring opportunities for themselves. Phil Jones almost took the lead once, but his header was saved by Samir Hananovic. Van Gaal clearly noticed that United were not performing as they should, as he made a total of eight changes during the interval. This was a wise decision on his part, as the Red Devils played considerably better throughout the second half.

Discussing the game afterwards, Van Gaal said that he was very pleased with the result. He praised the team for retaining possession of the ball, and said that he was happy with how the positions had been covered, noting that there was a vast improvement in comparison to previous matches. He added that he believed the performance to be the best he’s seen so far, since joining the club.

As a supporter of United, Tunde Folawiyo might be aware that in another interview, Van Gaal described the team as being ‘broken’, and explained that he has been doing his utmost to repair it, through both training, and through the selection of new players during the summer transfer window. The Dutchman also said that, in regards to transfers, he will be looking for people who will fit in on a long-term, rather than a short-term basis.

The team appear to be happy with their new manager; Chris Smalling, one of United’s defenders, has said that he is impressed by the 3-4-2-1 formation Van Gaal has chosen for the squad. This system has proven effective for the Netherlands team, and Smalling has said that he and his fellow teammates will have no trouble adapting to this formation in their own matches.

Being a sports fanatic, Folawiyo might occasionally share his opinion on his favourite teams online. To learn more about his interests, view Tunde Folawiyo’s uploads on Scribd.

Arjen Robben Disputes Manchester United Transfer Rumors

Aug. 8th 2014

Tunde FolawiyoNow that the newly-appointed coach Van Gaal has upheld his responsibilities to the Netherlands’ national team, Manchester United fans are undoubtedly watching his next move closely. It was announced recently that the new coach extended an offer to Bayern Munich’s Arjen Robben, though the forward has since ruled out a Manchester United move. Fans of United, like Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others around the globe, may find the offer to prove a step in the right direction for Van Gaal after the team’s disappointing past season.

Both United fans and players alike may find new hope in Van Gaal’s coaching capabilities after the manager led Holland to third place at the World Cup in Brazil. He admitted to the media that he made a brave attempt to bring Robben to United, though his efforts were rebuffed. Robben, however, has noted his close relationship with the coach, regarding him as the most important manager of his career. Despite this, he remains firm in his decision to stay with Bayern Munich.

As Van Gaal has stated, the offer remains on the table and Robben would certainly contribute a great deal to a team riddled with disappointment under recently sacked ex-coach David Moyes. The forward is amongst the Netherlands’ most talented players, with appearances in three UEFA Championships and three World Cups. Known for impressive dribbling skills, crossing ability and speed, the player has long demonstrated great promise on the field.

The start of his professional career began with Groningen, where he was awarded player of the year during the 2000-2001 Eredivisie season. He signed with PSV two years later, becoming among Netherland’s Young Players of the Year. The next season, Robben was pursued by a variety of English clubs before eventually joining Chelsea during 2004. Whilst his debut with the team was delayed by injury, he would later help the team to go on to achieve two Premiere League championship titles. Following his third season with the English team, Robben made the move to Spain’s Real Madrid for an estimated €35 million.

During August of 2009, he was transferred to the Bayern Munich club, scoring two goals during his debut. His first season with the team saw them win a league title – his fifth in a period of eight years. He scored a winning goal during the Champion League final and was later named amongst the Footballers of the Year for Germany. Whilst United fans such as Tunde Folawiyo may have anticipated the talent joining the ranks of the Red Devils, perhaps Coach Van Gaal has other tricks up his sleeve.

Manchester United Eyes Real Madrid’s Di Maria

Aug. 6th 2014

Tunde Folawiyo Following a disappointing season under recently sacked coach David Moyes, Van Gaal’s roster is slowly but surely beginning to take new form. Jorge Mendes, agent for Real Madrid player Angel di Maria, has announced his client may very well make a move to Manchester during the upcoming transfer window this summer. If this move does indeed take place, the winger would become the team’s top signing of the season. Fans of United, like Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others around the UK and beyond, may be delighted by the prospect of acquiring this renowned super talent.

Di Maria recently stated that he was unsure of his future with Real Madrid. According to reports, the winger is said to be unhappy with Real Madrid’s courtship of James Rodriguez, a breakout star during the World Cup. Whilst Di Maria experienced a wonderful season playing for Los Blancos during 2013-2014, his frustration is understandable. With four goals and an impressive 17 assists last season, it’s no wonder United is eyeing the player so closely. His talents have already been shadowed by team mates Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale, three of the greatest players in the game today. It was Di Maria who came through for the team when Ronaldo was plagued with health concerns, a true testament to the Argentinian’s abilities under immense pressure.

The Argentine winger began his thriving career playing for Rosario Central before moving to Europe during 2007 to begin playing for Portugal’s Benfica. After three years with Benfica, Di Maria transferred to Real Madrid for a payout of €25 million. He played an integral role in Real Madrid’s tenth title win at the UEFA Champion League Final, further garnering popularity amongst millions of fans. As one of Argentina’s international players since 2008, the winger has earned more than 50 caps, scoring the winning goal at the Olympics of 2008. Further demonstrating his outstanding talents, he represented Argentina at two World Cup matches and the Copa America of 2011. An effective finisher, Di Maria performs best when running alongside the byline, proving instrumental in Real’s win of La Decima. If paired with Januzaj, Di Maria is expected to shine. Whilst acquiring topnotch wingers is no easy fete, Manchester United may have no choice but to jump at the chance to sign Di Maria. Tunde Folawiyo and other fans of the famed club may find a Di Maria acquisition to be a great step in the quest toward victory.

United transfer news – a guide to recent setbacks and successes

Jul. 17th 2014

Tunde FolawiyoMan United’s transfer negotiations appear to be going far better than they did last year. The club is nearing the end of a successful bout of negotiations with Athletic Bilbao, which are expected to result in the signing of Ander Herrera. Herrera is a midfielder whose services United have been attempting to secure since 2013. David Moyes’ came close to signing him last year, but failed after a paperwork mix-up on the transfer deadline day.

Meanwhile, United supporters such as Tunde Folawiyo have bid farewell to left back Alexander Buttner. The 25 year old has joined Dynamo Moscow, and is currently training with them at their camp in Austria. Speaking to the press about the transfer, Buttner explained that he was happy to leave the Red Devils, as he was eager to participate in the Champion’s League.

He noted that Dynamo Moscow had a strong team who would be capable of winning the title during the coming season. Buttner also criticised Van Gaal, arguing that, despite him being named as Man of the Match on 14 occasions during his time with United, the Dutch manager never gave him a regular spot on the first team for Holland.

The club have made Southampton a second, higher offer of £34 million, in a bid to obtain Luke Shaw, a left back who would serve as a replacement for Buttner. If the transfer goes ahead, it would be the most expensive signing of a teenage player since Wayne Rooney joined United. Southampton are clearly aware of how valuable Shaw is, and are reluctant to let him go; they refused United’s offer of £27 million in May of this year, and have said that they will not allow this player unless a high enough bid is made.

United have also experienced a setback in their attempt to sign Joao Miranda, as their bid of £25 million has been rejected by Atletico Madrid. Football fans like Tunde Folawiyo are no doubt aware that Miranda would make an excellent addition to the team, but it looks like Van Gaal will have to make a better offer if he wants to sign this particular player. Van Gaal is also said to be interested in getting Edinson Cavani on board. The striker, who currently plays for Paris Saint Germain, has said that he would be willing to consider a move to United, although there has been no talk of a signing, as of yet.

Tunde Folawiyo | United Fails to Secure Fabregas and Cavani

Jul. 4th 2014

world-cup-364618_640As the Manchester United rumour mill continues to swirl with news of forthcoming signs, the team has reportedly stepped back from pursuing multi-million dollar deals to acquire both Cesc Fabregas and Edinson Cavani. It is said that United bosses spent six months contemplating bringing the pair to Old Trafford. With the end of a disappointing season comes new hope for Red Devil fans like Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others. There is sure to be a series of exciting switch-ups as Van Gaal takes the reins of United upon completion of coaching the Netherlands team during their Brazil World Cup venture.

Manchester United has had its sights set on Cavani since last season. David Moyes, the club’s booted ex-manager, travelled to Paris to watch the Uruguay striker take the field three times. The player joined Paris Saint-Germain for £55m last summer, departing from Napoli. According to UK’s Daily Star, the player is now determined to make a Premier League move, though these hopes may not be fulfilled by United. It’s been reported that the newly appointed coach Van Gaal has put the axe on the trade.

Cavani’s quest to Premier League is said to stem from a frustration with playing behind Swedish player Zlatan Ibrahimovic. It’s been reported that Cavani would require a match of Wayne Rooney’s £300,000-a-week salary in order to join United – a stipulation Ed Woodward is reportedly unwilling to accept. The Red Devils have admitted a defeat in furthering their bid for Cesc Fabgregas. Although the ex-Arsenal player has been on United’s radar for over a year, it’s said that Van Gaal has since moved onto other options. According to a local newspaper, the signing won’t be happening for a culmination of reasons. The player began his career training with Barcelona before signing with Arsenal of the Premier League during September 2003, aged 16. He established himself as the team’s starting midfielder and captain, breaking a variety of club records during the process. Demonstrating outstanding skill, he quickly became known as one of the greatest young players in his position. The player later returned to Barcelona where he became a valued goal scorer during his three seasons with the team. During this time, he won a league title, his first.

Whilst United fans may be disappointed at the failure to secure these super talents, hopes remain high that Van Gaal’s got big plans in mind. Tunde Folawiyo and other fans of the team may continue to anticipate the coming months of trades.

Tunde Folawiyo | Manchester United eyes Arsenal’s Thomas Vermaelen

Jul. 2nd 2014

Tunde Folawiyo Much sought-after player Thomas Vermaelen may be making a long-anticipated switch to Manchester United this summer, according to recent reports. Whilst Arsenal has yet to formally accept the bid, it’s been said the defender is ready to seal his fate with the Red Devils. Fans of the club, like Tunde Folawiyo and millions more from around the globe, are surely waiting in anticipation for news of this important trade. During a time when fan morale may be an all-time low, new hope may be restored upon the signing of a number of talented players.

Rumours are swirling that the 28-year-old Arsenal player has been extended a generous £30,000-a-week pay raise to make the move to Manchester and with only a year left before his contract expires, the defender can no longer afford to sit idly. It has been said that Vermaelen and Coach Arsene Wenger have fallen out of sorts as the manager has looked to players like Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny to serve as the backbone of the back four.

Vermaelen, a five-year player for Arsenal, joined the club after transferring from Dutch team Ajax, and was once amongst Wenger’s foremost defensive players before suffering a series of injuries he has struggled with since. It is said that the player believes new manager Louis van Gaal may be able to restore his skill, in addition to improving his £70,000-a-week salary.

Arsenal has proved vulnerable in regards to transfers during recent years, with players like Gael Clichy, Emmanuel Adebayor, Samir Nasri and Kolo Toure all signed off to Manchester City. Several players who made the switch to City went for large salaries as their contracts wore down, as is the case with Vermaelen.

Belgian footballer Vermaelen joined AFC Ajax’s youth academy during 2000, winning the 2003-2004 Eredivisie title during his very first season. After a loan, he rejoined Ajax to win the esteemed KNVB Cup. He then served as the club’s captain upon Klaas-Jan Huntelaar’s departure during 2009. That same year, he joined popular Arsenal and was named captain upon Van Persie’s switch to United during August of 2012.

Amongst Vermaelen’s key attributes are his aerial abilities, his speed with the football and his leadership skills that have carried through several teams with great success. Tunde Folawiyo and other fans of the Red Devils may regard a Vermaelen switch as just the beginning of a wise set of moves by the newly appointed Coach Van Gaal.

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 | 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 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.