A blog about Manchester United

Arjen Robben Disputes Manchester United Transfer Rumors

Friday, 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

Wednesday, 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.

Van Gaal Signs First Player as Head Coach

Monday, Aug. 4th 2014

Tunde FolawiyoNewly appointed Coach Van Gaal has recently signed his first player as manager of Manchester United. Ander Herrera, a Spanish midfielder, has acquired the four-year commitment, joining a team with much to prove to its millions of loyal fans. After a disappointing season under recently sacked Coach David Moyes, the Red Devils are undoubtedly determined to turn things around. Rumours surrounding Van Gaal’s coaching plan are alive and well as he prepares to take the reins of Manchester United. As the first of what is sure to be many changes to United’s roster, Tunde Folawiyo and other fans of the celebrated club may find Herrera’s signing to be highly significant in the future direction of the team.

Whilst United’s previous £28.85 million United bid to acquire the 24-year-old was rejected, an improved offer has secured his signature. Born in Bilbao, Herrera played for Real Zaragoza until 2011. His career with the club saw 128 appearances and 11 goals. According to the player, signing for the Red Devils is a dream turned reality. He regards his time playing for Old Trafford during UEFA’s Europa League amongst the highlights surrounding his young career.

Manchester United had previously attempted to acquire the playmaker last year, but was unable to meet deadline requirements. Reports have suggested that the deal may have been spoiled by a group of pranksters pretending to act on behalf of the club. David Moyes, the club’s then-manager, acquired Marouane Fellaini instead. Unfortunately, his debut campaign was one riddled with disappointment. His presence failed to improve the club’s long-term issues in midfield.

When Herrera does indeed make the move to United, he will accept the challenge of bringing control to the team’s midfield, a challenging fete indeed. United megastar Ryan Giggs regards Ander as a talented young player boasting great creativity and energy. He noted him as one of United’s brightest prospects throughout Spain, expressing certainty that the 24-year-old would be a hit amongst fans. The seasoned Giggs anticipates seeing Herrera in action during the team’s summer tour in America.

Given Coach Van Gaal’s great success managing the Netherlands at the 2014 World Cup, United fans may be hopeful of a brighter season for the Red Devils in the coming months. Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others may undoubtedly still face disappointment over the past year’s record, but Van Gaal and his plans for the club may prove to be its ultimate saving grace.

Van Gaal hoping to nab world’s top players during summer transfer window

Monday, Jul. 21st 2014

Tunde Folawiyo Manchester United are currently working towards acquiring some new team members during the summer transfer window; rumour has it that getting Mats Hummels on board is a top priority for Louis Van Gaal, although it remains to be seen whether Borussia Dortmund will accept their most recent offer of £20 million.

As a football fan, Tunde Folawiyo may be aware that the 25 year old defender has played a key role in helping Dortmund win several trophies over the past six years. It is unclear, as of yet, whether they would be willing to let go of one of their most talented players. Moreover, reports indicate that United are not the only club that have set their sights on Hummels; both Real Madrid and Barcelona are thought to be preparing bids as well.

Van Gaal is said to be trying to inject some running power and creativity into the team’s central areas, and so is looking to purchase several midfielders, including Arturo Vidal and William Carvalho. The latter currently plays for Sporting Lisbon, and his contract with the Portuguese club states that he cannot be transferred for under £37 million. Augusto Ignacio, the director, has said that he would be open to idea of selling the player for the right price; he explained that losing Carvalho would not be a problem, as they have several other players who are equally skilled.

Vidal, who is at present player for Juventus, will cost United even more, with reports indicating that the club have submitted a bid of £48 million for the Chilean. Both Arsenal and Real Madrid have also expressed an interest in this player and as such, even this generous offer from United may not be enough to secure his transfer to Old Trafford. Vidal himself has implied that he would like to join the Red Devils however, noting that he would be quite happy to have a season off from the Champions League.

Football fanatics like Tunde Folawiyo are doubtless aware that Vidal is considered to be one of the world’s greatest midfielders; ranked amongst Italy’s top ten players, he has contributed to more than 16 of the 80 goals scored by Juventus during the past year. As such, it would be a major step forward for United if they succeed in purchasing him.

United transfer news – a guide to recent setbacks and successes

Thursday, 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.

Van Gaal creates demanding training schedule for United

Tuesday, Jul. 15th 2014

Tunde FolawiyoDespite having his hands full with transfer negotiations and coaching responsibilities at the World Cup, Louis Van Gaal is now beginning to focus his efforts on training United, and making them challengers for the club title once more. The Dutchman has ordered Chris Smalling, Luke Shaw, Phil Jones, Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney to participate in the Red Devils pre-season tour of the USA, even though it’s been less than a month since the English team exited from the World Cup.

As a fan of United, Tunde Folawiyo may remember that in previous years, players were granted a minimum of four weeks holiday after taking part in any major tournament. However, Van Gaal seems to be determined to place greater demands on his players. In addition to calling up those who played for the English squad during the World Cup, he is also ordering additional evening training sessions for the entire team. This will mean that United will complete an afternoon training session, take three hours off for recovery, and then return to the pitch for another session which will last at least two hours.

Whilst Van Gaal has set the training schedule in motion, he will not be present to oversee its execution, due to being tied up with World Cup business; in his absence, Ryan Giggs will be stepping in as manager – this is a player whom many supporters, including Tunde Folawiyo greatly admire. The Welshman has already served in this capacity, following Moyes’ departure earlier this year; as such it’s safe to say that the team will be in good hands. Giggs will also be supported by the newly-appointed assistant manager Albert Stuivenberg.

Stuivenberg recently resigned as the manager of the Dutch FA under-21 team, after Van Gaal offered him a position at Old Trafford. He had been serving in this capacity for more than 12 months, and had also helped the under-17 Dutch team to win the European Championships in both 2011 and 2012. Jelle Goes, the technical director at the FA, commented on Stuivenberg’s resignation, noting that they were very grateful to him for his contributions to Dutch football, and that he had done an incredible job with both the under-21 and under-17 teams.

Tunde Folawiyo | United Fails to Secure Fabregas and Cavani

Friday, 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

Wednesday, 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 | Van Gaal Eyes Major Red Devils Changes

Monday, 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

Friday, 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.