Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
IP addresses are NOT logged in this forum so there's no point asking. Please note that this forum is full of homophobes, racists, lunatics, schizophrenics & absolute nut jobs with a smattering of geniuses, Chinese chauvinists, Moderate Muslims and last but not least a couple of "know-it-alls" constantly sprouting their dubious wisdom. If you believe that content generated by unsavory characters might cause you offense PLEASE LEAVE NOW! Sammyboy Admin and Staff are not responsible for your hurt feelings should you choose to read any of the content here. The OTHER forum is HERE so please stop asking.
The inside track on incoming Manchester United manager David Moyes
May 9, 2013 9:47:00 AM
The Everton boss may be cast from the same mould as Sir Alex Ferguson but former colleagues say he might have to change his approach to succeed at Old Trafford
SPECIAL REPORT
By Wayne Veysey | UK Correspondent
What kind of manager can Manchester United expect when David Moyes is anointed to the Old Trafford throne?
Caricature paints him as pragmatic, work-aholic, enthusiastic, loyal and demanding, a worker of miracles season after season at Everton.
In his own words, Moyes was overlooked for the post of Ferguson’s No.2 in 1998 because the Govan godfather regarded the then Preston manager as “a little too intense”.
The 50-year-old has come a long way from the ambitious ladder climber who began taking coaching courses at the age of 22 to the cherry-picked successor of the most successful manager in British football.
Behind the gimlet blue eyes and proud Glaswegian jaw lies one of those most fertile minds in football.
An early disciple of long ball specialist and unorthodox man-manager John Beck, Moyes is also a fervent advocate of the scientific approach to management.
At Everton, he urges his fitness staff to go on courses across Europe to absorb the latest knowledge and information on player preparation and recovery. Football data is key to his matchday preparation, with a mini-team of three analysts employed to provide detailed reports on the performances of his own players and the opposition.
This is no dinosaur sending his team out to wear down the opposition and nick a goal on the counter-attack or through a set piece.
Moyes’ supporters point to him transforming Everton from perennial mid-table strugglers to top-six regulars on a shoestring budget, with three League Managers’ Association manager-of-the-year awards proof of the esteem in which he is held by his peers.
Critics use his lack of Champions League pedigree against him, as well as a trophy count during 11 years at Goodison Park that still stands at an unforgiving zero.
Moreover, Moyes’ teams have never been known for playing an expansive brand of football. Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy came away from Spurs’ 1-0 defeat at Goodison Park in March 2012 telling friends that Moyes would not be a future manager of his club. “We are never going to play like Everton,” he said. Levy was true to his word. Moyes was, perhaps surprisingly, never even considered by the London club to replace Harry Redknapp last summer.
Yet Moyes knows how to win friends and influence people. “He has an aura about him,” one long-standing former colleague, who wished to remain anonymous, told Goal.com. “Players listen to him and believe in what he is telling them. They will run through a brick wall for him. He is good to his staff, honest and generous. Without exception, they all respect him.”
Moyes is cast from the same mould as Ferguson. They share similar working-class Glasgow backgrounds, fierce work ethics and their management styles are broadly similar.
“David has a tough, hold-no-prisoners’ approach,” the ex-colleague added. “It is his way or the highway, as players like Royston Drenthe have found out.
“He is not particularly flexible and is something of a control freak. He is a manager in the traditional sense. He not only coaches the players, selects the team and formulates the tactics but controls every area of the club – the academy, the scouting, the medical and the sports science departments. He never stops working.
At United, Moyes will not have the same level of control as he has developed during a decade of steering Everton from the bottom half of the table to the top. Britain’s biggest club has too many tentacles. He will have to learn to delegate, as Ferguson has done so successfully down the years.
“David is going to have to change his approach radically,” the source explained. “Maybe not so much his man-management style. At Man United you can probably get away with an authoritarian style, as he will be following Ferguson. You can’t walk into Chelsea and do it.
“But he won’t be able to run all areas of the club at United. The playing style is also an issue. At Everton and Preston, he has not overseen an expansive style of play.”
Like his fellow Scot, Moyes has also demonstrated a capacity for longevity and consistency. By nearly all measures, his track record at Preston and Everton is impressive.
An absence of silverware at Goodison should not be confused with a lack of success. Winning the FA Cup in 2009, when Everton lost to Chelsea in the final, would have enhanced his CV, but would it have been any more of an achievement than steering the Merseysiders to a top-four league finish, as he did in 2004-05 after being forced to sell Wayne Rooney to United?
Like Ferguson, Moyes keeps the media at arm’s length. Control is the buzz-word. He also knows how to keep a secret.
A cloak of confidentiality has surrounded United’s plans for him to succeed his friend and ally over the past few weeks. Even senior Everton staff have been kept in the dark about their manager’s future.
Moyes had an end-of-season dinner with the Merseyside press pack last week, when each reporter was given a gift of a 10-year-old bottle of single malt as a token of appreciation for a solid working relationship over the course of the campaign. “I honestly don’t have a clue what I will be doing at the end of the season,” privately flat-batted Moyes in response to off-record questions about his future.
You can imagine Ferguson nodding his approval. He will stay on to mentor the man he deemed not ready to work with 15 years ago, but who he now considers the stand-out candidate to manage one of Europe’s grandest institutions.
Moyes has served his apprenticeship. His time has come.
Rooney faces fan backlash as request for transfer puts Chelsea, Bayern and PSG on alert but will Ronaldo's return persuade him to stay?
By IAN LADYMAN, NEIL ASHTON and CHRIS WHEELER PUBLISHED: 07:43 GMT, 9 May 2013 | UPDATED: 18:30 GMT, 9 May 2013
Wayne Rooney faces a backlash from Manchester United fans after it emerged he asked outgoing manager Sir Alex Ferguson for a transfer two weeks ago.Fans took to Twitter and message boards to urge the club to sell the England striker after Sportsmail exclusively revealed that Rooney is seeking a fresh start elsewhere. The news will interest Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, who are favourites to sign the £25m-rated frontman. Rooney also recently removed the words 'Manchester United player' from his Twitter profile, replacing them with 'Nike Athlete'.
Doom and gloom: Wayne Rooney drives out of Manchester United's Carrington training ground on the morning it was revealed he asked outgoing manager Sir Alex Ferguson for a transfer this summer
Change of scenery: Wayne Rooney asked Sir Alex Ferguson for a transfer this summer at the end of last month after growing increasingly frustrated with his role in the United team
All in blue: How Rooney would look in Chelsea colours as imagined by Sportsmail. The London club have been put on alert by news that Rooney wants a move away from Old Trafford, with Bayern Munich and PSG also interested
Happier times: Rooney and Ferguson lark around before a Champions League semi-final with Schalke in 2011. But the striker has grown increasingly disillusioned with his role at the club
Change: Rooney altered his Twitter blurb from Manchester United player to Nike Athlete recently
His representatives insisted no change had been made recently and it later emerged that a number of other Nike-sponsored players - including United team-mate Tom Cleverley - had made similar changes to their social media biographies some months ago. David Moyes, Rooney's first manager in professional football, will be confirmed as Ferguson's replacement today and one of his first challenges will be to persuade the England striker to stay. But many fans urged him not to bother.
Reaction to Rooney's latest transfer request on Twitter was not favourable to the player. One fan wrote: 'Truth be told, Rooney has looked uninterested most of the season, he didn't even acknowledge his fans half the time.'Another compared the England striker unfavourably to Cristiano Ronaldo: 'Rooney's been stealing a wage for too long. Someone with his ability and salary should be doing what Ronaldo does every week.'Another added: 'Funny how Rooney wanted to leave in 2010 cos we lacked "ambition." We go on to sign RVP and he's become irrelevant and now wants to leave.''I would sell Rooney if it meant getting a younger and hungrier player. He hasn't been motivated for months now,' said another fan.
Many others added that Rooney was not bigger than the club and that if he remained, many supporters would turn against him next season. The forward looked downcast as he left training at Carrington on Thursday morning, as he and his team-mates contemplated life after Ferguson at the club.
Arsenal agree £30m-a-year deal with Puma in most lucrative kit contract in Britain
By DAVID KENT UBLISHED: 00:20 GMT, 8 May 2013 | UPDATED: 12:54 GMT, 9 May 2013
Arsenal have agreed the most lucrative kit contract in British football with Puma. The Gunners rake in £30m a year from a five-year deal with Emirates. Now they have reached an agreement with Puma for £30m a year over five years from the end of 2013-14.
Raking it in: Arsenal have agreed a £30m-a-year deal with Puma in the most lucrative kit contract in Britain
The deal tops Liverpool’s £25m-a-year contract with Warrior and will signal the end of Arsenal’s 20-year relationship with Nike, whose deal is worth £55m over seven years. Manchester United’s 15-year contract with Nike amounts to £287m.The Gunners have worn strips supplied by American sports giants Nike since 1994.
End of an era: Arsenal will finish their 20-year association with Nike
Capital giants: Chelsea sponsors adidas had also set their sights on Arsenal
But the new deal wil be a major coup for Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis on top of the Emirates deal and will strengthen his belief that the club are making major strides forward off the pitch which will enable them to compete for the biggest signings. German sportswear giants adidas had also reportedly targeted the Gunners in a move which has been described as a 'strategic decision to own London.The company, who currently supply rivals Chelsea, also had their sights set on Fulham, who are sponsored by Kappa.
End of an era: Arsenal set to end 20-year association with American firm Nike
All change: Arsenal have a year left with Nike (left) and an internet mock up of Arsenal kit (right)
Arsenal's deal with Puma would leave Nike counting only the Manchester clubs among their Premier League clients when City switch to the American company in 2013. Manchester City's current deal with British supplier Umbro, which is owned by Nike, ends at the end of this season.Nike will now concentrate on Manchester United, Barcelona and the England team. They are also due to renegotiate with United shortly as their current 15 year deal worth £287m is due to expire.
Southampton, who occupy the relegation spots, are the only other team sporting the Umbro emblem.Wigan are the final Premier League outfit with a British connection. Their kits are supplied by MiFit - a brand heavily linked to Wigan chairman Dave Whelan's company DW Sports Fitness.
EXCLUSIVE: Man United line up Ronaldo return after chief Gill flies to Spain to talk to Madrid star's super-agent
CEO David Gill in talks with Ronaldo's agent about Old Trafford return
Madrid star hailed Sir Alex Ferguson on Twitter after his retirement
Ronaldo's return could persuade Wayne Rooney to stay at United
By NEIL ASHTON , IAN LADYMAN and CHRIS WHEELER PUBLISHED: 21:30 GMT, 8 May 2013 | UPDATED: 13:22 GMT, 9 May 2013
An astonishing day at Manchester United took an incredible twist on Wednesday night when it emerged the club are close to securing the return of Cristiano Ronaldo. Sportsmail can reveal that outgoing United chief executive David Gill has been in Madrid to meet Jorge Mendes, the Portuguese super-agent who represents the megastar. Sources on Wednesday night insisted the Barclays Premier League champions are confident of securing the return of the player they sold to Real Madrid for a world record £80million in 2009.
Homecoming? Cristiano Ronaldo is close to a return to Manchester United
News of Ronaldo's return might help David Moyes, who will be the next manager of the club, to persuade the wantaway Wayne Rooney to stay.
Outgoing boss Sir Alex Ferguson made no secret of wanting to see former World Player of the Year Ronaldo come back to Old Trafford.
When United met Madrid in the Champions League earlier this season, Ferguson said: ‘Was I tempted to bring him back? Yes. He’s still in the hamper.’
On Wednesday, in reaction to Ferguson's decision to retire, Ronaldo tweeted: ‘Thanks for everything, Boss.'
He has a great relationship with Ferguson and sees him as a father figure.
'When I arrived, even though I did not want it, he [Ferguson] insisted I have No 7 on my shirt,' Ronaldo had said.
Happy days: Ronaldo developed immensely as a player under Ferguson at United and enjoyed great success
Tears and a crown: Ronaldo celebrates winning the Champions League
'I was adamant that I did not want it. Then, he sat me down and told me about the history of the No 7.
He said, "Do you understand what I am trying to say to you? I think you will be worthy of wearing this shirt". With that, I understood how much confidence he had in me.'
Ronaldo scored his 200th goal for Madrid in a 6-2 win at home to nine-man Malaga on Wednesday.
The match turned in the 21st minute when Malaga defender Sergio Sanchez was shown a straight red card for bringing Ronaldo down in the area.
Although the Portuguese had his spot kick saved by Willy Caballero, who injured himself in the process and had to be replaced by Carlos Kameni, Ronaldo netted with an indirect free kick close to goal in the 26th minute.
Take that: Ronaldo lashes in a free-kick to score his 200th Real Madrid goal
Rooney is about to be reunited with Moyes - his first manager in professional football - who will be confirmed on Thursday as the new United boss after meeting Everton chairman Bill Kenwright in London on Wednesday.
But Moyes will walk straight into a scrap to keep Rooney after the England striker asked Ferguson for a transfer late last month.
Frustrated with life in and out of the team at Old Trafford, Rooney suggested during a meeting in Ferguson’s office that he be allowed to leave this summer. Ferguson, it is understood, told him in no uncertain terms that he would not be sold.
Chelsea are leading the race for the striker and value him at £25m.
The way they were: Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo shone together for Manchester United
Once a Blue: Chelsea are confident of luring the £25m England striker to Stamford Bridge in the summer... and we've imagined what he'll look like in a blue shirt
Rooney may now reconsider his stance in the wake of Moyes’s arrival, even though the two men have had their own differences in the past.
It remains to be seen if Rooney follows up his informal plea to Ferguson with a formal transfer request.
Rooney knows that Chelsea would be keen to take him to Stamford Bridge and incoming boss Mourinho has identified him as one of his principal targets. The Portuguese wants a striker to play in the role once occupied by Didier Drogba and believes he can rejuvenate Rooney’s career.
Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are also interested but PSG, Sportsmail understands, will lose manager Carlo Ancelotti to Madrid as Mourinho’s replacement this summer.
Ferguson himself reacted angrily in February to suggestions Rooney would be sold, stating unequivocally that the Liverpudlian would be at the club next season. On Wednesday night, a United spokesman insisted: ‘Wayne Rooney is not for sale.’
Mentor: Rooney with Sir Alex Ferguson on the day he signed for United in 2004
Day at the races: The England forward was out with his United team-mates on Wednesday
Forget the Special One, Moyes is the right one for United
By MARTIN SAMUEL PUBLISHED: 22:56 GMT, 9 May 2013 | UPDATED: 23:27 GMT, 9 May 2013
There are plenty of reasons not to make David Moyes manager of Manchester United, and on Thursday we heard them all, tumbling out across the airwaves and forums. He has never won a trophy or coached a team beyond the preliminary stages of the Champions League. He has not bought, or managed, a £30million player. He does not know what it is like to chase the title in the final weeks of the season, or travel to Milan to defend a first-leg lead. Most of all, he is not Jose Mourinho. Not being special is Moyes’s greatest crime. Mourinho arrives like a bad boy on the street corner, all leather and attitude, casually flicking a spark into a box of fireworks. Against his rock-and-roll image, Moyes is a nerd with a set of safety glasses and a long taper.
Watchman: Ferguson has overseen how Moyes operates
As manager of Everton his style has been effective, but often uninspiring. The season Blackpool were relegated they outscored Everton, who finished in seventh place. When Moyes took Everton into the Champions League from fourth place, bottom-of-the-table Southampton matched their 45 goals. The Manchester United bequeathed by Sir Alex Ferguson was built on verve and attacking flair. ‘They always score,’ as Clive Tyldesley exclaimed going into injury time at the 1999 Champions League final. Everton don’t. In six of the last eight seasons, Everton’s position in a league table of Premier League goalscorers is inferior to their final league position. They were seventh in 2010-11, but 10 clubs scored more goals than them. They were 11th in 2005-06 but only the bottom three were less prolific. Everton are currently sixth; on goals scored, they would be seventh.
So is the Steady Eddie who produced this team, often the antithesis of the risk-takers and game-makers of Manchester United, the man to succeed Ferguson at Old Trafford? Yes, he is; of course he is. For what would it say if United simply went out and appointed one of the marquee names that flit between the elite clubs of Europe: Carlo Ancelotti (AC Milan, Juventus, Chelsea, Paris St-Germain) or Mourinho (Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid)? What would it say if, Roman Abramovich-style, they hurled a fortune at the latest flavour of the month in Europe, 2013’s equivalent of Andre Villas-Boas?
Career men: The likes of Ancelotti (left) and Mourinho change jobs on a regular basis
We have to believe Fergie is a good judge
United would be saying that English football doesn’t matter. That building a team doesn’t matter. That investing in youth is irrelevant. That consistency is bunk. That learning, personal development and loyalty are of no consequence. These are the traits Moyes has brought to Everton over the last 11 seasons and are, coincidentally, the values that Sir Alex Ferguson instilled at Manchester United. So what United would be saying is that Ferguson did not matter, either. His beliefs and ethos were trivial, his 27 years condemned with a wave of the hand, or shrug of the shoulders.
There was a predictable backlash when the appointment of Moyes was confirmed. There is almost always a backlash against a new manager these days. Wolverhampton Wanderers were going to give Mick McCarthy’s job to Steve Bruce until social media and the loudest mouths got to work on his reputation and the wise men in the boardroom panicked. No doubt some of those now screaming longest about the comedy of errors that followed were also very vocal about Bruce’s impending arrival. They will have time to reflect on this irony while travelling to their first League One fixture of next season. Bruce, meanwhile, is back in the Premier League, against all odds, with Hull City.
Last laugh: Steve Bruce will be back in the Premier League next season with Hull
So it helps, strangely, that the men at the helm of Manchester United are exiles. The decision-making members of the Glazer family are not out checking the local pulse every two minutes. They are not party to the phone-ins and the debate, they are not plugged into feedback from the message boards. Quite probably, they have listened only to the man who marshalled the last 26 seasons so brilliantly, and will have taken his guidance on what is best for their club.
Had Ferguson given Moyes a poor review, it is unlikely he would have been putting the finishing touches to his contract on Thursday. And we have to believe Ferguson is a judge of managers. That he knows what he created at Old Trafford, and who best to take it on; for it was a lot more than just a winning team. Ferguson will look at the way Moyes has nurtured young players and recognise an echo of the care he put into the proteges from United’s academy. He will note the number of times he has bumped into Moyes at matches, doing his homework when others delegate. And he will respect Moyes’s scrappiness, the way he has fought his corner at Everton, in his own small way knocking Liverpool from their perch on Merseyside, too.
Moyes is a manager in Ferguson’s image. One can see why Sir Alex would have been horrified at the thought of the dilettante Sven Goran Eriksson reaping the benefit of his hard work and is happy to pass his legacy to Moyes. There is a statement inherent in the award of a six-year contract. Ferguson’s presence is blessing and curse for Moyes. To have Ferguson influential in his ambassadorial, directorial role at the club means his successor should at least be given time. Equally, when results dip — as they inevitably do, at all clubs, even the biggest — it means the fans have a go-to guy sitting in the stands. Moyes is back-to-back defeats away from the supporters loudly beseeching the man whose name is emblazoned on a stand after three decades of sheer brilliance to sort it out.
Permanent reminder: The Sir Alex Ferguson stand at Old Trafford
This halts the obsession with foreign bosses
Undoubtedly, Mourinho’s list of achievements would buy him more time. Pep Guardiola could probably afford to lose a few at Bayern Munich, too, next season. Yet there is a deeper force at work here. Ultimately United, like Arsenal post-Arsene Wenger, almost have a duty to English football. As the first club, it is United’s obligation to lead the way and halt this obsession with foreign as better, with track records that are simply impossible for a British manager to replicate in the domestic game. Moyes, unlike say Jurgen Klopp of Borussia Dortmund, has not won the league. But who could win the league at Everton in current circumstances? Would Klopp? Would Mourinho? Hell, would Ferguson?
By appointing Moyes and giving him the opportunity to be successful, United are establishing a new method of evaluation. They are stating, rightly, that worth in a modern football world so dominated by a financial elite cannot simply be assessed on the pages of record books. That what Moyes has achieved at Everton is, if anything, more impressive than another league title at Porto, where the last five managers to serve a full season have all delivered the championship.
Flying the flag: Ferguson is the standard-bearer of British football
Perhaps greater realism will follow. Having captained Manchester United to titles as a player, and won promotion as a coach on three occasions, why shouldn’t Bruce, for instance, be considered a potential Manchester United manager? Does he not know a player? Does he not know European football? What was he supposed to do: take Birmingham City or Wigan Athletic into the Champions League? Is that what Mourinho would have done? Harry Redknapp doesn’t regard winning the FA Cup with Portsmouth as his greatest achievement, although it would be the headline on his c.v. He feels taking Bournemouth into English football’s second tier for the first time, or keeping Portsmouth in the Premier League in 2004 and 2006, were superior; no doubt as Moyes regards what others might term mediocrity as success, of sorts. Would it make Moyes a better manager had he won a domestic cup? Did that elevate Steve McClaren to a different sphere? Will it do the same for Roberto Martinez on Saturday? What if Wigan are relegated, too? Evaluate that.
Facing the drop: A Wembley appearance looks like being a mere consolation for Wigan this season
Moving on: But Moyes' departure could help Everton
Everton will feel aggrieved at losing Moyes, yet with the emotion of the moment removed it may prove good for them, too. How inconsequential would it make the club appear if 11 years of consolidation and improvement at Goodison Park were felt by United to be meaningless? Perversely, Everton need to have Moyes poached. It shows the club are noticed and important. What message would it send if the achievements of those outside the Champions League elite were met with indifference? How would Everton attract a promising manager such as Martinez if life beyond the top five was just a giant graveyard shift and all positions interchangeable? In Spain or Italy, Moyes would already have been rewarded with a major opportunity. Then again, so would Sam Allardyce and, before him, Alan Curbishley.
Perhaps it counts in Moyes’s favour that he is Scottish and therefore immune to the advances of the Football Association. One of the factors that surely goes against an English manager at a major Premier League club is that the talent pool is so shallow any coach with Champions League experience would instantly be on the radar as the next national boss. It helps that Moyes, like Ferguson, would see United as the pinnacle of his career. So Moyes it is, and Moyes it should be. If transforming a club, if being the best and most consistent manager outside of the highest echelon in England, if producing good young players and identifying the premium talent available for the budget, does not prepare a man for Manchester United, what does?
It is not just that Moyes deserves this appointment, English football deserves it, too. It deserves to be taken seriously. It deserves to matter. United are saying that what happens at Everton is significant. The alternative was not to reject one man, but the worth of the entire game in this country.
United lose Lewandowski battle as Dortmund hitman lined up by Champions League rivals Bayern
By JOHN EDWARDS PUBLISHED: 20:41 GMT, 9 May 2013 | UPDATED: 20:51 GMT, 9 May 2013
David Moyes is about to see his new club Manchester United finally lose their protracted battle to sign Robert Lewandowski after Borussia Dortmund reluctantly drew up an exit plan for an imminent move to Bayern Munich. Sportsmail revealed last month that Bayern had hijacked United’s ambitious plan to pair Lewandowski with Robin Van Persie but were facing stern resistance from Dortmund.
See you next year? Robert Lewandowski in action against bayern Munich last weekend
Furious at Bayern’s attempts to poach another of their prize assets, after Mario Gotze’s move to Munich, Dortmund bosses were digging their heels in and threatening to make Lewandowski see out the final 12 months on his contract, even if it meant forgoing a hefty fee. But they have climbed down, after the free-scoring striker spelled out his eagerness to join Bayern, and told the Bundesliga champions they can have him, provided it is on their terms. Sportsmail has learned they have informed Bayern Lewandowski will be their player next season, provided they commit to paying a 25million euros asking price by next Wednesday. The deadline has been set to enable Dortmund to begin searching for a replacement, and sources close to Bayern believe chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge is ready to meet it.
New beginning: The news is a blow to new Manchester United boss David Moyes
Latest blow: Dortmund fans have already shown their anger at Mario Gotze, also moving to Bayern
While it will come as a blow to United, and their newly-appointed manager Moyes, the prospect of Lewandowski spearheading Bayern’s attack will make the Champions’ League finalists more formidable than ever under Pep Guardiola next season.Meanwhile, United goalkeeper Ben Amos will miss the European U21 Championships in Israel this summer to have an elbow operation. Amos, who was due to travel with the England squad, will have floating bone removed. He will first play for United in their Premier League U21s play-off against Liverpool next Tuesday. Amos had a successful loan spell at Hull last year and is attracting loan offers again for August.
Hitman: Lewandowski put Dortmund on the way to the Champions League final with four goals against Real Madrid
Arsenal line up Sagna replacement as Polish star Piszczek could join Dortmund exodus
By SIMON JONES PUBLISHED: 21:44 GMT, 9 May 2013 | UPDATED: 21:44 GMT, 9 May 2013
Arsenal are set to test Borussia Dortmund’s resolve to hold onto another of their other stars, Lukasz Piszczek.The Gunners have identified the Pole as a replacement for Bacary Sagna if they are unable to resolve the Frenchman’s contract dispute. Feyenoord right-back Daryl Janmaat has also been identified as a potential signing.
Emirates-bound? Borussia Dortmund right-back Lukasz Piszczek (left) could be on his way to Arsenal
Piszczek has only been with Dortmund since 2010 following a free transfer from Hertha Berlin.The 27-year-old has developed into one the most impressive right-backs in the Bundesliga and is a mainstay in the Polish national team.Following a good show in the hosts’ disappointing Euro 2012 campaign, Piszczek was watched closely by Chelsea as they bid to replace Jose Bosingwa. Sagna has been in dialogue with Gunners officials for much of the season, and talks were cranked up a notch last month after a proposed switch to PSG hit a snag.The France international has one year left on his current deal.
Fall-out: The Gunners are at the centre of a contract dispute with right-back Bacary Sagna (left)
Bale: Fergie the best manager that's ever lived
The Welshman, who has been subject of a transfer enquiry from the Red Devils, admitted that the veteran's decision to call it a day came as a shock at the Spurs training ground
Ancelotti pays tribute to 'legend and hero' Ferguson
After an unprecedented era of success the Red Devils boss leaves the game as the best manager ever, and the former Chelsea boss has written an impassioned homage to his adversary
Steve McManaman: Mancini deserves more time at Manchester City
The 41-year-old indicated the club's owners will be disappointed at the lack of success compared with last term but does not think they are the 'hire-and-fire' type of people
'Benitez has done a great job' - Cahill
After guiding them to the brink of Champions League qualification and a European final, the Spaniard has answered critics with a strong finish
Tottenham the ideal club for Rebic, claims agent
The Croatia Under-21 striker has been the subject of several scouting trips by the north Londoners and would welcome a move to White Hart Lane
Sir Alex Ferguson is the greatest manager ever – and only Mourinho can catch him
The Manchester United boss announced his retirement on Wednesday as the single most successful man in the history of football
'We would love to keep him' - West Ham chairman Sullivan eager to clinch Carroll deal
The striker has won plaudits around Upton Park for the way he has battled back from injury to lead the line so impressively in recent weeks for Sam Allardyce's men
Yaya Toure hopeful Sir Alex Ferguson's departure will herald Manchester City dominance
The 71-year-old's retirement stunned the footballing world and the Ivorian believes it gives his side the perfect opportunity to wrestle the title back from their city rivals
Bale hints at Tottenham summer stay
The Wales international has strongly hinted he will stay at White Hart Lane at the end of the season, praising the progress the club has made and the plans afoot in north London
Tottenham attacker Bale believes he still has room for improvement despite award-winning season
The Wales international is delighted with the way his campaign has gone, but feels he is still learning his new role in the team and that there is more to come from him
Di Canio believes Tottenham loanee Rose has bright future
The young left-back has excelled in a largely forgettable campaign for the Black Cats but is set to return to his parent club this summer rather than extend his stay on Wearside
Moyes was the obvious choice for Manchester United, says Landon Donovan
The LA Galaxy attacker, who spent loan spells under the new Red Devils boss in 2010 and 2012, believes the 50-year-old will thrive at Old Trafford as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor
Tottenham striker Adebayor admits to having 'difficult season' but hopes to end on a high
The Togo international has pointed to injury problems that have hampered his campaign following his wonderful solo effort in the 2-2 draw with Chelsea
Manchester City striker Dzeko uncertain about his future
The Bosnia international has suggested that he could be tempted by a move away from the Etihad at the end of the season, but he is concentrating on winning the FA Cup first
The search for Moyes replacement is underway, says Everton chairman Kenwright
The Toffees chief is determined to find the right man to succeed the Scot, who will replace the retiring Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United at the end of the season
Rooney dilemma casts early cloud over Moyes reign
The new Man United manager will once again cross paths with the player he reluctantly sold as an 18-year-old, but England's talisman might never play under the new boss
Rio Ferdinand & Carrick praise next Manchester United manager David Moyes
The Everton manager has agreed a six-year deal to replace Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford, and two of his future players have given the appointment their full support
Chelsea are weakest in Abramovich era - Aimar
The Benfica playmaker claims that his side have the upper hand in Wednesday's Europa League final, believing the Blues are the weakest they have been in many years
No contact with PSG, insists Arsenal boss Wenger
The Frenchman has denied contact with les Parisiens and praised Carlo Ancelotti for guiding his side to the brink of Ligue 1 success this season
Humbling final failure brings embarrassing end to Mancini era at Manchester City
The Italian watched his side lose out in the FA Cup final after Ben Watson's late header amid reports that he will be replaced by Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini this summer
Moyes will need time to impose himself at United - Rodgers
The Anfield manager compares the new Red Devils boss's task in following Sir Alex Ferguson to his own in succeeding Kenny Dalglish and offers advice to his fellow coach
Tottenham close in on Baldini appointment
Spurs have targeted the Roma general manager to head a new-look recruitment operation at White Hart Lane and are hopeful of luring him to north London this summer
Time for record-breaking Lampard to leave Chelsea on a high
A model professional and maybe unrivalled club icon, the veteran midfielder has done well to reach a historic milestone in a team adapting around him and deserves a glorious exit
Sir Alex Ferguson: A thank you
The Manchester United manager for over a quarter of a century announced his retirement from Old Trafford on Wednesday, bringing fans, friends and families together one final time
Adebayor wants to 'kill' Arsenal's hopes of a top-four finish
The former Gunner admitted he no longer cares about the fortunes of his old team and has backed Spurs to qualify for the Champions League at the expense of their rivals
Rodgers: Out-of-favour Skrtel still in Liverpool plans
The Reds boss concedes that it has been a difficult period for the Slovakia international defender but is adamant that there are no plans to sell him on at the end of the season
Manchester United midfielder Scholes to retire at end of season
The Red Devils legend will make his final ever appearance for the side against Swansea on Sunday as he follows manager Sir Alex Ferguson into retirement
Wigan midfielder Watson hails FA Cup winning goal as 'dream come true'
The Latics match-winner praisedhis side's performance, claiming they played Manchester City off the park, though emphasised the need to turn their attentions to league survival
Conte dismisses Ferguson comparisons
The 43-year-old does not believe he will be with the Serie A champions for anything like the same length of time the Manchester United boss has remained at Old Trafford
Mancini: I'll feel stupid if Manchester City sack me
The Italian has criticised the club's refusal to respond to speculation that he will be replaced by Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini following defeat to Wigan in the FA Cup final
Wigan owner Whelan hails 'fantastic' FA Cup win
The long-standing Latics chairman declared it a dream come true, admitting it was perfect repayment for his own final disappointment back in 1960 when he broke his leg
Benitez lauds 'fantastic' Lampard after breaking Chelsea all-time goalscoring record
The 34-year-old notched his 202nd and 203rd goals for the club to lift the Blues to a 2-1 win over Aston Villa, while the interim boss also questioned Ramires' first-half dismissal
I may not be able to stay at Malaga, says Pellegrini
The Andalusians are facing financial issues meaning the Chilean's departure from La Rosaleda looks increasingly likely with Manchester City in the frame for his signature
Pressure at Manchester United just part of the dream - Moyes
The Scot insists that he is not afraid of the expectation that comes with one of football's biggest jobs after agreeing to leave Everton in the summer for Old Trafford
Carrick: Sir Alex Ferguson is the greatest manager in British history
The England international has lavished praise on his outgoing manager, who is set to retire at the end of the season after twenty seven years in charge of Manchester United
Fellaini 'happy' at Everton despite Manchester United talk
The Belgium international insists that he would rather achieve his dreams of Champions League football at Goodison Park despite speculation following David Moyes's departure
Hazard & Terry set to miss Europa League final after injury woe against Aston Villa
The club captain twisted his ankle as the PFA Young Player of the Year nominee looked to stretch his hamstring muscle while sprinting, with both being stretchered from the field
Lampard becomes Chelsea's record goalscorer
The 34-year-old breaks Bobby Tambling's record from 1970 in his 606th appearance of the club with two finishes against Aston Villa that keeps the Blues in third place
Meulensteen unsure over Manchester United future
The 49-year-old first-team coach is set to hold talks over his position at Old Trafford after David Moyes was appointed as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor on Thursday
Wenger: It is difficult to imagine English football without Sir Alex Ferguson
The Arsenal boss, who will become the longest-serving manager in the Premier League when the Manchester United boss steps down, has acknowledged his rival's great achievements
Everton will cope if Fellaini & Baines join Manchester United - Howard
David Moyes' imminent departure to Old Trafford has raised speculation he could raid his former club for two of their prized assets, but the American sees no reason to panic
Nasri accepts Mancini criticism
Manchester City's French midfielder admits that he has now learned to accept criticism from his manager and realises that it has helped to improve his performances on the pitch
Fergie made my Premier League title dream come true - Van Persie
The Dutchman says it has been an honour to work with the 71-year-old, who will retire after 26 years and an incredible 38 trophies at Old Trafford at the end of the season
Gotze would have joined Manchester City if he wanted money, says agent
The gifted youngster's representative has made it clear that he could have made much more financially at last year's English champions or another Premier League side
Moyes & Fergie more different than people think, says Howard
The former Manchester United man, who has played for both managers, disagrees with the popular opinion that the Scottish pair have nearly identical coaching styles
Arsenal hold second round of talks with Ashley Williams camp
The Gunners are increasingly confident of signing the Swansea City centre-back this summer as they prepare a summer bid, having held initial discussions in April
Reina going nowhere, insists Liverpool boss Rodgers
Speaking ahead of the weekend clash with Fulham, the Northern Irishman has yet again denied reports that his Spanish star is set for a move away from the club
Moyes the right choice for Manchester United, says Tim Cahill
The former Everton star held high praise for Sir Alex Ferguson's successor, for whom he played under for eight seasons at Goodison Park before moving to the MLS
‘It is where we want to be’ - Rodgers aims for Liverpool top-four push next season
The 40-year-old feels the Reds have a "big year" ahead of them if they can become more consistent but has stressed the need for realism if they are to achieve their long-term goals
Villas-Boas urges Bale to sign new Tottenham contract
Amid speculation regarding the Welshman's future at White Hart Lane, the Portuguese manager wants the midfielder to put pen to paper for a new deal to ward off potential suitors
Sir Alex Ferguson left Manchester United because of excess stress, says Capello
The former England boss says the retiring Scot revealed to him that he wanted to escape the rigours of management to spend time travelling with his wife
Mancini honoured to have faced Fergie
The 48-year-old has locked horns with the Scot since he took over at the Etihad Stadium and, while their relationship often became fractious, the Italian respects his adversary
Extra Time: A sneak peek at Manchester United's Premier League winners' medals
By Husmukh Kerai
May 10, 2013 1:41:00 PM
Sir Alex Ferguson's Red Devils will be handed their 13th title along with the shiny medals when they take on Michael Laudrup's Swansea at Old Trafford on Sunday
Goal have got our hands on pictures providing an exclusive sneak peak at the Premier League winners' medals for the 2012/13 season.
The medals and a 13th Premier League trophy will be handed to Manchester United following their penultimate match of this campaign against Swansea at Old Trafford on Sunday.
It should be an emotional occasion as Manchester United supporters bid farewell to Sir Alex Ferguson in his last ever home game as the Red Devils manager.
While Ryan Giggs is set to collect his 13th winners' medal there are some United players still in the hunt to breach the minimum 10-game cut-off to earn themselves the invaluable piece of memorabilia.
Anders Lindegaard needs Sir Alex to give him two more appearances in their remaining fixtures for him to be eligible for his first ever winners' medal.
The likes of Nick Powell and Alexander Buttner won't receive a medal in their debut season as the 10-game limit is now beyond their reach.
Darren Fletcher is another to miss out after making only three appearances in a season ravaged by injury. He joins the likes of Gary Neville and Owen Hargreaves as medal-less players in a title-winning season.
The Portuguese said he was called personally by the retiring Manchester United manager, who knows 'The Special One's' next managerial destination
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho admits he was devastated to hear the news that Sir Alex Ferguson was retiring as Manchester United manager at the end of the season.
The former Porto, Chelsea and Inter boss revealed the United legend and called him personally to inform him of the decision.
Mourinho said he was saddened to hear the Scot’s 26-year reign at Old Trafford was coming to an end and admitted fielding a team against the Premier League champions will never feel the same again.
"When Sir Alex called me to give me the honour of knowing from him his decision, I was surprised and sad," he said in an interview with Sky Sports.
"It will be difficult for me, and I think all managers, to go to Old Trafford and play against Manchester United without this mythical figure waiting for us.
"At the same time, I was happy to feel his emotion, and pride for such an amazing career.”
United face Swansea City on Sunday in what will be Ferguson's last home game in charge of the club but Mourinho said he would be too emotional to watch the match.
When asked if he would take in the game, he said: "No, certainly not - no, I don't want to cry!"
Mourinho, who himself had been linked with taking over at Old Trafford, went on to endorse David Moyes, who has signed a six-year contract with the Red Devils.
"I think David is a great choice,” added the Portuguese coach.
“I like him as a person; I like his character as a manager. I believe Manchester United will support him, I think he has the qualities to do a good job.
"I wish Sir Alex a happy life, and I wish David a successful career at Old Trafford."
Talking about his own future, Mourinho indicated he had informed Sir Alex about where his next destination in management will be.
"We are good friends, and my good friends know which club I would like to manage when I finish my work at Real Madrid."
Rooney slams 'rubbish' reports he intentionally removed Manchester United from Twitter bio
May 11, 2013 11:09:00 AM
The striker, who is attracting interest from Arsenal and Chelsea, claims the change to his homepage was made three weeks ago at the request of Nike
Wayne Rooney has hit out at newspaper reports suggesting that he intentionally removed 'Manchester United' from his Twitter biography as speculation over his future continues to mount.
Goal exclusively revealed on Thursday that Arsenal and Chelsea have joined the race to sign the 27-year-old, who has already told Sir Alex Ferguson he wants to leave Old Trafford at the end of the season.
Rooney insists the change to his social media bio was made three weeks ago but claims the alteration was made at the request of his sponsors Nike.
“There’s a load of rubbish being written about me changing twitter bio saying I have deleted Manchester United from it," read a statement from Rooney.
"I have never deleted Manchester United from the bio whatever the papers are saying because it was never on there.
"All that happened was that I was asked by Nike to add @nikeuk to it – the same as many other sportspeople they sponsor. Funny, no-one’s written about that though!
"That change was made three weeks ago and yet people are talking about it as if its something that was put up yesterday."
A spokesman for Nike said: "In April we asked Wayne Rooney and other Nike-sponsored athletes to add nikeuk on to their profiles due to changes in ASA guidelines relating to athletes and social media."
The Sweeper: Bale's father to have major say as Tottenham winger prepares to stay put
May 12, 2013 7:54:00 AM
The PFA Player of the Year could yet stay put at White Hart Lane despite interest from Manchester United and Real Madrid while Sir Alex Ferguson gets set to jet off to America
Gareth Bale cited his father, Frank, as the most important influence on his career when the Tottenham star collected his Football Writers' Association footballer of the year award on Thursday night.
And Spurs also have Bale's dad to thank as the 23-year-old looks likely to stay at Spurs next season, regardless of whether or not they achieve Champions League qualification.
Frank Bale is understood to be adamant that his son's career would be best served by remaining at White Hart Lane next season despite interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs.
The attacker's representatives from Stellar Group have been sounding out interest in their client while Spurs chairman Daniel Levy has already rebuffed enquiries from Real Madrid and Manchester United for a player whom he values at €80 million.
But Bale's parents may well have the final say, with the Welshman - once described as a "home boy" by former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp - making it clear how much he values his family.
"Every day when he came home from work, I would nag my Dad to take me out [to play football] and eventually he would," said Bale on Thursday night.
"He has given up most of his life to take me to youth-team games and he still comes to games now. He has been a massive inspiration to me and everything I do is for him and my mum."
- Greg Stobart
Forget the hairdryer, Sir Alex Ferguson is clearing his office of his most treasured possessions after his decision to step down as manager at Old Trafford.
The retiring Manchester United chief has a plaque which reads 'ayecumfegovan' above his desk - a nod to his Glasgow home and his players' difficulty in understanding his dialect.
But he will leave David Moyes a welcome present when the current Everton manager takes over at the end of the current campaign.
He has a lucky teapot which he and his coaches have used ever since he arrived some 26 years ago.
It has taken a major battering down the years but Ferguson insists that it even goes on away trips and, to emphasise its importance, kit man Albert Morgan was once hastily dispatched back to Carrington when they left the teapot behind on a trip to London.
- Paul Clennam
Loic Remy is desperate to leave QPR in the summer following the Londoners' relegation to the Championship but the France international will have to accept a pay cut upon quitting the club.
The former Marseille striker earns a whopping €106,000-a-week salary - a figure that is €23,000 more than it was originally understood that he was being paid at Loftus Road.
Liverpool and Tottenham are both monitoring the 26-year-old's situation but have been told that Remy wants a deal that matches his terms at QPR - a scenario which neither club is willing to accept.
Remy is available for around €6 million this summer and has impressed in the Premier League since joining QPR from Marseille in a €9m move in January.
Clubs from Italy and Russia have also expressed an interest in the versatile forward, who has scored five league goals for the Rs and has spoken of his desire to remain in England.
- Greg Stobart
After 26 years of dedication to Manchester United, one of Ferguson's early retirement plans is to escape the country entirely and embark on an American road trip with his wife, Cathy.
The history buff has never had the time to fulfil his ambition and will set aside three months after he recovers from a hip operation this summer.
Fergie wants to visit the Alamo and the various Presidential libraries situated across the country before returning to fulfil a role as director and ambassador for the Old Trafford club.
Chelsea's Falcao raid seemingly foiled by £50m Monaco mega-deal
By DAVID KENT
PUBLISHED: 09:11 GMT, 12 May 2013 | UPDATED: 09:21 GMT, 12 May 2013
Chelsea's pursuit of Radamel Falcao appears to have been foiled by ambitious Monaco owner Dmitry Rybolovlev. He has agreed a £50million deal to bring the Colombian Atletico Madrid striker to France, according to the Sunday Times. The deal will see Falcao, 27, paid an eye-watering £8.2m a year after tax.
Top target: Radamel Falcao (left) seems poised to move to Monaco Who is Rybolovlev?
A Russian businessman and investor who owns Monaco.
He was ranked 199th in the Forbes billionaires list in 2012.
Rybolovlev took over Monaco in December 2011.
Monaco owner Rybolovlev wants Monaco to usurp Paris Saint-German as Ligue 1 winners and then win the Champions League. His side were relegated in 2011 and will return to France's top flight next season. Falcao's contract with Monaco will include an escape clause that allows him to leave after just one year - giving him the chance to join Atletico's rivals Real Madrid.
Destroyer: Chelsea were ripped to shreds by the Colombian in the Super Cup and wanted to buy him
Chelsea were torn apart by Falcao during the Super Cup earlier this season, the forward bagging a hat-trick as the Spanish side ran out 4-1 winners. Chelsea's own Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich was hoping to bring him to Chelsea but was unwilling to pay the whole of the Colombian's release fee.
Mancini to be sacked within days after City's embarrassing FA Cup final defeat by Wigan
By ROB DRAPER PUBLISHED: 18:47 GMT, 11 May 2013 | UPDATED: 23:02 GMT, 11 May 2013
Defeated FA Cup final manager Roberto Mancini is to be sacked in the next two weeks — with Manuel Pellegrini of Malaga being lined up as his replacement.The Manchester City manager’s fate was already decided prior to Saturday’s embarrassing Wembley defeat, when his expensively assembled squad lost to relegation-threatened Wigan 1-0, leaving them without a major trophy this season. Mancini’s three-and-a-half year tenure is coming to an end because he is deemed to have failed on the targets laid out for him this season; to reach the Champions League quarter-finals and win the Premier League again. Even if he had won the Cup, it was not enough.
In or out? Mancini rubbishes speculation of him leaving City after the shock defeat to Wigan
Coming in? Reports suggest Manuel Pellegrini is set to take over Mancini at the end of the season
Awkward: Mancini shakes hands with City chief Ferran Soriano as chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak (right) watches
Lonely: The Italian collects his runners-up medal after the shock defeat by Wigan
Mancini cut a forlorn figure as he defended his record over three seasons, in which he won the club’s first trophy since 1976 and their first league title since 1968.
Mancini did appeal to the club to quash the rumours surrounding his job, saying: ‘You continue to speak about this for six months, and also in the last two weeks too much, and I don’t know why the club didn’t stop this because I don’t think it was correct. I don’t think it’s true. ‘But I know football and anything can happen. If it’s true, we will see in the next two weeks. If it’s not true, you wrote a lot of stupid things for six months. If it’s true, I’m stupid because I didn’t understand nothing about this. But I am sure I work with serious people and I’m sure I did a good job, even if we lost this final. Two weeks, maybe one week. Next Sunday. The season will finish. I will know if it’s true or not.’
Winner: Zabaleta was sent off for City (above) before Watson grabbed Wigan's winner in the dying moments
But just before his press conference, Mancini told ITV: 'If I say that it is rubbish then it is rubbish.'
City’s new director of football, Txiki Begiristain, has been assessing potential replacements and Pellegrini is in pole position to take over, although Chelsea interim manager Rafa Benitez has also been considered. City failed to win a game in their Champions League group, finishing bottom and collecting just three points, They are also 10 points behind champions Manchester United in the Premier League with two games to play.
Going close: Mancini's second cup final was a tight affair, with chances for both teams
Mancini added: ‘I work always 100 per cent serious, for this is very important, and after that there is someone who decides for me. I’m the manager and I’m sure we did a good job in these three years. And I have a four-year contract.’ Though he spoke to club chairman Khaldoon al-Mubarak before the game, Mancini has received no communication from the club on his fate. ‘You think the chairman told me before the game don’t worry?’ he said sarcastically when asked about their conversation.'
Masked maverick: Mancini is still loved by some quarters of Manchester City's support
Patient: Mancini sits right with Brian Kidd before today's final, but where does his future lie?
He added: ‘I think our target when we started the season was to try to win the Premier League again, but our mistakes started in the last (summer) transfer market. ‘And when you win the Premier League after so many years, the second year is more difficult. ‘We lost some players in key moments; we lost Yaya Toure for a month. We had a lot of problems this season.’
Over and out: The Wembley affair could be Mancini's last major game in charge of City
Wembley way: Mancini led City to Wembley for the second time after 2011's success over Stoke
No more: Mancini couldn't add to the two trophies he has already won as City manager
Huth done it? Owen's car vandalised by one of his Stoke team-mates
By RIK SHARMA PUBLISHED: 10:08 GMT, 12 May 2013 | UPDATED: 10:08 GMT, 12 May 2013
Michael Owen was given an unwelcome send-off by his Stoke team-mates head of his final home game before retirement. He posted a picture on Twitter of his black Mercedes C63 covered in eggs and flour and wrote: 'This is what I will miss once I hang up my boots! Looks like I may be delayed getting to the match #eggs&flour'. Then the Potters forward began to list possible culprits, naming Dean Whitehead and Glenn Whelan as the most likely mischief-makers.
Happy Sunday: Michael Owen woke up to find his car caked in eggs and flour
'It's a long week lads. Revenge is in the air! Chief suspects: Whitehead and Whelan. Huth is a possible too,' he continued.'Walters is a possible. Others hwo can't be ruled out: Crouch, Etherington.'Earlier he tweeted: 'Final home game of my career today. How strange does that feel? Would be great to make an appearance. Will be a great atmosphere. #150 years.'While Owen was commiserating the desecration of his car, Stoke were preparing to celebrate their 150th birthday.
Coming to a close: Owen (left) is reaching the end of his career
A message on their website informed fans that festivities would get 'into full swing' at midday. More than 80 former Stoke players will be paraded around the stadium and the crowd will be entertained by jugglers, ball wizards, stilt walkers, clowns and face painters.There will also be a performance from the Co-operative Funeralcare Brass Band North West. Chief Executive Tony Scholes said: 'This will be a fantastic celebration of our 150 years and we want everyone to come along and join the party.
Egged on? Maybe it wasn't just one culprit but several of his team-mates
'The important thing is that people should arrive early if they want to enjoy all the entertainment that will be taking place both inside and outside of the stadium.'The presence of so many of our former players has created an enormous amount of interest among supporters who will need to be inside the stadium for 12.15pm to see the start of the parade which will take place in the countdown to the kick-off.'
Wayne Rooney 'was not keen to play because he has asked for a transfer' says Sir Alex Ferguson
Wayne Rooney’s Manchester United career may have reached a point of no return after Sir Alex Ferguson revealed the forward had handed in a transfer request and did not want to play in his farewell game at Old Trafford because it had been rejected.
Leave me out: Wayne Rooney was omitted from Sir Alex Ferguson's squad for his last game in charge Photo: REUTERS
By Mark Ogden, at Old Trafford
9:43PM BST 12 May 2013
The 27-year-old, who watched the 2-1 victory against Swansea from an executive box after being omitted from the matchday squad, was jeered and whistled by some supporters as he collected his Premier League winners’ medal following the game.
Persistent rumours of Ferguson and Rooney’s relationship breaking down in recent months were given added weight by the pair sharing a curt handshake following the medal presentation.
It is understood that Rooney asked for a transfer during a meeting with Ferguson two weeks ago.
The arrival of David Moyes as Ferguson’s successor could save Rooney’s Old Trafford career should the incoming manager hand the forward – who he sold to United for £27million in August 2004 – a lifeline at the club.
But despite the insistence of Ferguson and Manchester United that Rooney would not be sold, the player’s future is likely to be a pressing issue for Moyes.
“I don’t think Wayne was keen to play, simply because he has asked for a transfer,” Ferguson said. “I think he wants to think it through in his mind and I think that is a good idea. We have refused it. I think he should go away and think about it again, but it’s not my decision now.”
With Rooney becoming a peripheral figure in recent weeks since being dropped to the substitutes’ bench for the Champions League second-round tie against Real Madrid in March, Ferguson claims that the player’s stance is fuelled by his fall from grace. But he insists that Rooney would not be in this position had he played his best this season.
“He wasn’t happy about being brought off in games this season,” Ferguson said. “Wayne Rooney in top form wouldn’t be taken off. But we are not going to let him go. I just think he is maybe a bit frustrated about being taken off once or twice in the last few weeks.”
While sources close to the Rooney camp claim that the player is open-minded about remaining at the club once Ferguson is replaced by Moyes, the new manager will have the final say, rather than Ferguson.
But former United captain Gary Neville, a long-time team-mate of Rooney at Old Trafford, has warned the Liverpudlian that he risks making a mistake if he leaves the club.
“He has not been himself over these last couple of months, you can see there is something wrong,” Neville said. “However, if he has seen what has happened here today, that reception before the game, as he was sat up there in that box and looked around him, he’s 27 years of age, there is nowhere to go from here, believe me.
“I’ve seen players join Real Madrid and other great clubs in Europe and they always want to come back to this club.
“So I would hope that Rooney settles down over the summer, that he gets his head down and that he brings himself back.
“Players have ups and downs, it’s a rollercoaster if you play for this club for 20 years, it’s a not a bed of roses at times, you have your ups and downs.
“You struggle mentally at times, he might not think that, but he will be going through a difficult moment.
“He needs to come away and play for England in these next couple of weeks then have a summer off and hopefully he will get his head back to being a United player because there is nowhere to go after here.”
Neville hinted at Rooney being badly advised by his associates following the forward’s second attempt to leave United in three years.
“He has an agent by the way and he has got friends and they need to give him advice that this is the only club he should be playing at.
“Ryan Giggs, when he was around 27 or 28, there were rumours of him moving to Italy, but he has been through that and he could do worse than have a chat with Wayne at this moment.”
Neville’s comments about Giggs being able to play a key role in the Rooney issue were echoed by former United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel.
“This is the biggest place in the world to play football,” he said, “and I think the new manager can do himself a favour by first of all having a meeting with Ryan Giggs, quickly get him on board and solve this situation with Rooney once and for all.”
Wenger confirms Wilshere to undergo ankle surgery The Arsenal boss reveals that the England midfielder will go under the knife for "small, mild surgery" in the forthcoming days but is expected to recover for pre-season
Lampard 'one of the best midfielders in English history' - Mata The Blues attacking midfielder would like to continue to play with the club icon next season after he broke the club's all-time goalscoring record against Aston Villa
Mata hails Chelsea-bound Mourinho as 'one of the best managers in the world' The Blues star is full of praise for the Portuguese, who is set to return to the club this summer, saying that his team-mates have fond memories of him
Kuipers to take charge of Europa League final The Dutchman officiated the first-leg of the Champions League semi-final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund & has now been rewarded for his composed showing
Tottenham boss Villas-Boas tips Wigan to upset Arsenal The Spurs manager is hopeful that the FA Cup winners can open the door for his side to sneak ahead of the Gunners in the race for the final Champions League qualification spot
Liverpool striker Sturridge keen to replicate Drogba's mental strength The forward, who scored a hat-trick against Fulham, learned a lot from playing alongside the Ivorian and believes he is benefiting from regular game time with the Anfield outfit
'I would like to be a part of Manchester United's future' - Rio Ferdinand targets Red Devils stay The 34-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season but the defender insists he wants to continue the club's winning mentality after Sir Alex Ferguson retires
Rooney booed during Manchester United Premier League title parade The want-away forward was subjected to vocal signs of discontent from the Old Trafford faithful as a result of handing in a transfer request to leave the Red Devils in the summer
David Luiz: Lampard deserves record The Brazil defender admitted he would be happy if his team-mate were to sign a new deal at Stamford Bridge after breaking the club's scoring record
Ambitious Monaco target Evra and Tevez Having stolen a march on Chelsea in the race to sign Colombian striker Radamel Falcao, the free-spending French club are preparing to raid both Manchester giants this summer
We will take our time finding Moyes' replacement, says Everton chairman Kenwright The Toffees chief insists the club will not rush into choosing a successor to the Manchester United-bound manager, and will only start the search once the season is over
I knew Sir Alex Ferguson was retiring a long time ago, claims Wenger The Arsenal boss believes the Scot showed early signs that this would be his last season and feels Manchester United may now find it difficult to maintain their consistency
Terry sweating on ankle injury ahead of Europa League final The Blues captain is struggling with a knock that could see him sidelined for Wednesday's clash against Benfica, meaning a second successive European final absence
Manchester City should not sack Mancini, says Wenger The Arsenal manager believes that the speculation surrounding the Italian's future is unfair and that sacking him would prove to be a mistake, adding that clubs need stability
Monaco move to sign up Mancini as Manchester City exit looms The Ligue 1 new-boys, backed by Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev, have approached the Italian for the second time as he prepares for his Etihad Stadium departure
Everton should look to experience, advises Moyes The 50-year-old Scot believes his successor at Goodison Park should not necessarily be plucked from the lower leagues like he was by Bill Kenwright 11 years ago
Mancini future not up to us, insists Zabaleta With the Italian's future in doubt and reports suggesting Manuel Pellegrini is set to replace him, City's defensive rock says the decision on his manager's fate lies elsewhere
'I'm not new Manchester City coach' - Pellegrini The Malaga boss, who is said to be leaving the club at the end of the season, has denied reports suggesting that he has accepted an offer to take over from Roberto Mancini
Benitez hoping for Premier League stay after Chelsea The Spaniard has revealed that he is hopeful of a third managerial stint in England when his short-term deal at Stamford Bridge reaches its conclusion at the end of the season
Adebayor eyeing Champions League qualification with Tottenham The Togolese international says he is targeting a top four finish with the north Londoners after his late strike dispatched Stoke at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday
Lampard looking for Chelsea stay after becoming all-time top scorer The midfielder broke Bobby Tambling's record number of goals for the Blues in Saturday's 2-1 win at Aston Villa and admits he wants to remain with the club for many more years
Monaco mega-offer sets up Falcao move The Blues had been in pole position to sign the prolific Colombian after agreeing to meet his €60 million clause, but have been trumped by the free-spending French side
Luiz hoping to link up with Rooney & Mourinho at Chelsea The versatile Brazilian has admitted he would be happy if the Portuguese boss joined from Real Madrid and brought the wantaway Manchester United striker with him
Impulsive Rooney will regret Manchester United transfer request Gary Neville was right when he insisted there is nowhere for the striker to go after Old Trafford but even ahead of his imminent retirement Sir Alex Ferguson remains in control
Outgoing Mancini lashes out at Manchester City hierarchy Following Saturday's FA Cup final defeat the Italian, who is set to be replaced by Malaga boss Manuel Pellegrini, took an opportunity to lambast those who let him down this season
Gary Neville: Rooney exit would be a big mistake The former Manchester United defender believes his old team-mate should stay at Old Trafford following Sir Alex Ferguson's admission that the 27-year-old asked to leave the club
Sturridge can be a top European forward, insists Liverpool boss Rodgers The 23-year-old bagged a hat-trick as the Reds coasted to a 3-1 win over Fulham and his boss says he can become one of the continent's best
Moyes 'very emotional' following final Everton home game The 50-year-old will take over from Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United after spending 11 years with the Toffees, and was sad to say goodbye to the Goodison Park faithful
Sir Alex: I decided to retire at Christmas The outgoing Manchester United manager has revealed that he made the decision to stand down from his post at the back end of 2012 due to the death of his sister-in-law
Sir Alex Ferguson calls for Manchester United to stand by Moyes The retiring Scot says those associated with the club must back the new manager, just as they did for him during a trophyless spell early in his Old Trafford career
Wayne Rooney has asked to leave Manchester United, reveals Ferguson The striker missed out on Sunday's win against Swansea because he recently went to see the outgoing manager to enquire about the possibility of leaving the Red Devils this summer
Villas-Boas hails Tottenham grit after Stoke victory The Portuguese boss paid tribute to his side's powers of recovery after they weathered an early Potters storm to earn a win which keeps their Champions League hopes alive
Old Trafford spectacular marks Sir Alex Ferguson's final home game Supporters packed the famous stadium to bid farewell to their iconic manager of over 26 years, providing a cacophony of noise to greet their hero on to the pitch before kick-off
Exactly one year to the day since his side secured the Premier League title, the Italian pays the price for a disappointing season as he is dismissed from the Etihad Stadium
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has been sacked.
As reported by Goal.com on Sunday, the club's defeat to Wigan in the FA Cup final proved the last straw for the City owners, who said in a statement that the Italian had failed to achieve any of the team's targets for the season.
The decision comes exactly one year to the day since Sergio Aguero's dramatic late goal saw Mancini's side clinch their first league title for 44 years, with Malaga coach Manuel Pellegrini expected to be unveiled as his replacement at the Etihad Stadium.
"It is with regret that Manchester City announce that Roberto Mancini has been relieved of his duties as manager," read a statement on the club's official website.
"This has been a difficult decision for the owner, chairman and board to make and it is the outcome of a planned end of season review process that has been brought forward in light of recent speculation and out of respect for Roberto and his extensive contributions to the club.
"Despite everyone's best efforts, the club has failed to achieve any of its stated targets this year, with the exception of qualification for next season's Champions League. This, combined with an identified need to develop a holistic approach to all aspects of football at the club, has meant that the decision has been taken to find a new manager for the 2013-14 season and beyond."
Club chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak declared: "Roberto's record speaks for itself and he has the respect and gratitude of Sheikh Mansour, myself and the board for all of his hard work and commitment over the last three-and-a-half years. He has clearly also secured the love and respect of our fans.
"He has done as he promised and delivered silverware and success, breaking the club's 35-year trophy drought and securing the title in 2012. I would like to personally and publicly thank him for his dedication to the progress that he has overseen and for his support and continued friendship."
Mancini's assistant, Brian Kidd, is to take temporary charge of the team for their final two matches of the Premier League campaign and their post-season friendlies in USA.
As exclusively revealed by Goal.com, the Italian has been approached by ambitious French side Monaco with regards to taking over from Claudio Ranieri following their promotion to Ligue 1.
Pellegrini's not British, but he has everything to succeed at Manchester City
May 13, 2013 3:06:00 PM
The Chilean coach is set to take over from Roberto Mancini this summer and, despite some negative press in the UK media, has all the attributes to shine in the Premier League
COMMENT
By Ben Hayward | Spanish Football Writer
Out of the frying pan, into the fire. Manuel Pellegrini knows all about difficult owners, off-the-field problems, press scrutiny and elevated expectations from his time at Real Madrid and Malaga. So the Chilean should have an idea of exactly what he can expect at Manchester City.
He has already been written off by some sectors of the British media as a big-spending foreigner with a modest trophy record, the same press pack hailing the appointment of David Moyes at City's local rivals Manchester United. The Scot, incidentally, has never won a major trophy. But that's okay because, well, he hails from the British Isles. Pellegrini? He's from Chile. When did a South American ever succeed as manager in the Premier League? Oh, and he has an Italian surname. Like Mancini. Cardinal sins, clearly...
Pellegrini won't care, of course. The Chilean coach is a former central defender turned trainer with a very accomplished record (including several trophies in South America) at almost all of his sides, mostly modest teams by the way, which makes comparing his win percentage with Mancini's (as the Daily Mail did on Monday) a futile exercise. He is also a fully qualified civil engineer. How many British bosses can claim that?
Laid-back and likeable, Pellegrini will work with dignity and bring a brand of football which will please City fans after the pragmatic Mancini era. A beautiful building must be strong and solid too, however, and El Ingeniero's sides sit on strong bases. Defensive stability allows creative flow. It is an approach mixing science and art, brawn and beauty. And it works.
But what about Real Madrid? Pellegrini 'spent' €200 million and still won nothing, they say. This is, at best, a half-truth. The Chilean was caught in the centre of a power battle at the Santiago Bernabeu, was ignored by president Florentino Perez, viciously attacked by the local media and had little or no say when it came to player recruitment, despite the outrageous outlay in the summer of 2009, which saw Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka signed but Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder shipped out against his wishes.
"I didn't have a voice or a vote at Madrid," he told El Mercurio in an interview in 2010, while also lamenting his inability to build the side he had wanted at Real. "I can't get anything out of an orchestra if I have the 10 best guitarists but I don't have a pianist or a drummer."
It was essentially all over for Pellegrini after his Madrid side lost 4-0 at lowly Alcorcon in the Copa del Rey. Not even 96 points in La Liga (the club's best-ever total at the time) could save him, even though his team had been without Cristiano Ronaldo for almost two months and pushed Pep Guardiola's brilliant Barcelona all the way to the end of the season.
Duly discarded by Madrid, Pellegrini decided to rebuild his reputation at Malaga and took the Andalusians to within seconds of the Champions League semi-finals this term, despite summer sales (including the team's finest player, Santi Cazorla), uncertainty over unpaid player bonuses and chaotic behaviour from club owners, who left him very much in the dark over the finances and the future of the team - as well as his own.
All of that will help Pellegrini ahead of his Manchester City adventure. The Chilean has been strengthened by his experiences at Madrid and Malaga, and should feel much more comfortable with (Spanish speaker) Txiki Begiristain in the role of sporting director. It is a Barcelona blueprint in tune with his philosophy, while the Chilean's football ideology is also in keeping with the views of Beigiristain, who is keen to install a 4-3-3 formation from top to bottom at City, in the youth sides all the way up to the first team.
That may take time. Pellegrini has favoured 4-4-2 or 4-2-2-2 for much of his career. He built a spectacular side at Villarreal with that formation, leading the small-town club to the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2006 and winning many admirers with a brand of football which succeeded in combining Latin American flavour with European efficiency. At Malaga, meanwhile, he has used both of those systems, as well as an effective 4-2-3-1. Stability, however, remains key and the 59-year-old is unlikely to agree to a switch to 4-3-3 unless he believes he has the players to succeed in that system - or until he can bring them in.
"I can't get anything out of an orchestra if I have the 10 best guitarists but I don't have a pianist or a drummer"
- Manuel Pellegrini on his time at Real Madrid
Tactically, Pellegrini is an upgrade on Mancini. He has shown at Villarreal, Madrid and Malaga that he is comfortable using a number of formations and, wherever he has been, he has made the team better than before. In the two games against Dortmund recently, his defensive organisation frustrated the German side and had it not been for the Andalusians' late capitulation, it would have been Malaga in the semi-finals up against Madrid and not BVB.
Indeed, Pellegrini's pedigree in Europe is one of the things City will have been attracted to, especially following their two disappointing Champions League campaigns under Mancini, while the Chilean's man-management skills will help bring the best out of a side which seems primed for greatness. At Madrid, the players backed him until the end; at Malaga they love him. At City, they will too. And if he wins, will anyone really care that he isn't British?
