..::Football II::..

[Wolverine GTR]

Benitez bemoans Chelsea defending in 'open' second half

The Blues took the lead twice against their London rivals, but were pegged back on both occasions by Tottenham, and the Spaniard also complained about missed opportunities Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez bemoaned his side's slack defending and missed opportunities in an "open" second-half against top-four rivals Tottenham, as it was twice pegged back in a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues took the lead through Oscar early in the first half, but Emmanuel Adebayor leveled things up with a stunning strike after 26 minutes.

Ramires gave the hosts the lead before halftime, and there were plenty of missed chances for Benitez's side before Gylfi Sigurdsson earned a point for the away side with his strike 10 minutes from time.

"I think that we had four or five counterattacks to finish the game, and we didn't do it," Benitez told Sky Sports. "[Spurs] were pushing and we had to defend but we had the chances on the counterattack to score the third goal and finish it. We could defend both [goals] a little bit better because we are talking about transition defending when we conceded the first goal and with the second it was the same.

"I think [the second] was offside anyway, the position of Adebayor - but we still had to stay more compact and be more aggressive in defense. The second half was too open. In the first half we had control of the game, we gave them the opportunities to play on the counterattack and it was a great goal.

"When we were winning the game we had to have more control and all the counterattacks that we had we didn't finish so it makes a big difference. We are in the position we said before, we have to win one game to guarantee the top four and we will try to win both to get in the top three.

"I think that we had the chances, not clear chances in front of the keeper but in the counterattack you have to do something more. We had the chances to score the third goal, but we didn't do it and as you say credit to Tottenham because they were pushing and attacking."

 

[Wolverine GTR]

Manchester United share price down 1.76 percent after Sir Alex Ferguson retirement

After just 10 minutes of the New York Stock Exchange opening, share prices fell from $18.77 to $17.88, but recovered to $18.44 by the end of Wednesday's trading.Manchester United's share price on the New York Stock Exchange closed at $18.44 after a day of fluctuation following Sir Alex Ferguson's announcement that he will retire at the end of the season.

Trading opened in New York at 9:30 am EST for the first time since the revelation and, after just 10 minutes, United posted a 4.7 percent drop in share price from $18.77 to $17.88.

After an hour, United's price appeared to stabilize after it had risen back up to $18.41 but fluctuations continued until the stock finished at $18.44, for an day's loss of -1.76 percent.

United, owned by the Florida-based Glazer family, was floated on the the New York Stock Exchange for the first time in August 2012. Last Thursday the club posted a record third-quarter turnover of 91.7 million pounds.

With Ferguson to retire at the end of the season and take up roles as a director and ambassador, Goal.com exclusively revealed that Everton manager David Moyes will replace the 71-year-old at Old Trafford and could be confirmed within the next 24 hours.

"The qualities [needed] are the ones that have been inherent in Manchester United for many years," United chief executive David Gill told MUTV.

Gill confirmed that Sir Alex Ferguson, along with Sir Bobby Charlton, are involved in the appointment of the new manger.

"If you look at what has happened with the two most successful eras – Sir Matt Busby and Alex – they are managers who got involved in the whole aspect of the club, whether it be from the youth team up to the first team.

"All aspects of it, plus that degree of loyalty and the understanding of the football club that it's not just what happens on the first-team pitch, is crucial to the success of Manchester United. Those are the sort of things we’ll be looking at.

"Clearly he has to have the requisite football experience, both in terms of domestic and European experience, so I think it's a small pool but we'll move forward."

In his statement, Ferguson believes that "now is the right time" for him to step down but insisted that he is leaving the side "in the strongest possible shape."

 

[Wolverine GTR]

Benitez: It will be sad to leave Chelsea

The Blues interim manager says his time at Stamford Bridge has been a 'positive experience' and aims to bow out on a high by delivering the Europa League and a top-four finish.Rafa Benitez admits he will be sad to leave Chelsea at the end of the season but aims to go out in a blaze of glory.

Benitez will exit Stamford Bridge in the summer when his short-term deal expires after being selected by Russian owner Roman Abramovic to take over following the dismissal of Roberto Di Matteo in November.

Despite his appointment triggering a fierce backlash from sections of the Blues support, the 53-year-old Spaniard revealed he is crestfallen that his positive spell with the Blues is coming to an end."It's always a little bit sad when you have to go, but it's part of our job now," Benitez told FIFA.com. "I can see the experience at Chelsea as a positive experience. They are a top side and a very good group of players. It's been a great experience."

Benitez sternly rejected the notion that his imminent departure would impact Chelsea's end-of-season objectives, instead reaffirming his desire to secure Champions League football, via a top-four finish, and Europa League success in next week's final against Benfica."My job is to do what I have to do this year," he added. "My target is to finish in the top four, top three. Now we're in the [Europa League] final and trying to win the final. That's it.

"That is the situation and we have to deal with that. We will try to keep doing a professional job with integrity until the end."

 

[Wolverine GTR]

Cristiano Ronaldo pays tribute to Sir Alex

The Real Madrid star has joined the legions declaring their gratitude for the Manchester United manager's support, thanking the 71-year-old for his help.
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson following the 71-year-old's decision to retire as Manchester United manager at the end of the season.

The Portuguese star, who worked with Sir Alex at United for six years, has joined the likes of Paul Ince and David Beckham in thanking the 71-year-old for his mentoring during the important stages of his career.

Ronaldo posted on Twitter: "Thanks for everything, Boss."

The 28-year-old won three Premier League titles with the Red Devils, as well as lifting one Champions League trophy and one FA Cup.

Ronaldo left Old Trafford to join Real Madrid in 2009 but has always held the Manchester club - and Ferguson in particular - in high regard.

Everton manager David Moyes has emerged as the clear frontrunner to take over at United.

 

[Wolverine GTR]

Falcao: Give Ferguson a round of applause

The Atletico Madrid star praised the Scot for his "amazing career" after he announced he would leave his position as Manchester United coach this summer
Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao has lavished Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson with praise following the club's revelation on Wednesday that he is retiring at the end of the season.

The Scot is set to stand down after 26 years in charge at Old Trafford, having forged an unparalleled legacy which includes 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League crowns among the 38 trophies he has helped his side win.

Falcao, who remains linked with a move away from the Vicente Calderon this summer, congratulated the managerial stalwart on his success over the years.

The Colombian forward wrote on Twitter: "Stand up, put your hands together and give him a big round of applause! Sir Alex Ferguson is retiring. Congrats for an amazing career!"

David Moyes is set to leave Everton at the end of the 2012-13 campaign and step into his compatriot's shoes at United, several media outlets are reporting following the official confirmation of Ferguson's retirement.

Falcao, on the other hand, is believed to be heading in the same direction as Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho - from La Liga to Chelsea.

 

[Wolverine GTR]

'Thank you boss and enjoy the rest!' - Beckham hails 'father figure' Sir Alex Ferguson

The former Manchester United midfielder, currently at Paris Saint-Germain, attributes much of his success to the 71-year-old, who gave him his Old Trafford debut Paris Saint-Germain midfielder David Beckham has hailed Sir Alex Ferguson as a "father figure" and the "greatest manager in football" upon hearing of the Manchester United manager's retirement.

The former England captain started his career at Old Trafford and won the FA Youth Cup before being integrated into the first-team setup by the Scot, who will step down at the end of the season, with David Moyes set to replace him.

The midfielder won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups and the Champions League before moving on to Real Madrid and says that he owes all of his success to the 71-year-old.

"I've just seen the news on Sir Alex," Beckham wrote on his Facebook page. "As I have said many times before, the boss wasn't just the greatest and best manager I ever played under, he was also a father figure to me from the moment I arrived at the club at the age of 11 until the day I left.

"Without him I would never have achieved what I have done in my career. He understood how important it was to play for your country and he knew how much it meant to me.

"After [World Cup] 1998, without the manager I would have found it virtually impossible to cope with the attention I was getting on and off the field and for this I will always be grateful to him for his support and protection.

"I am truly honoured to have been guided by the greatest manager in football and to have had the career that I had under him.

"Thank you boss and enjoy the rest!"

 

[Wolverine GTR]

Manchester United title parade will kick off at Old Trafford

The Red Devils will embark on an open-top bus procession through Manchester to mark their 20th top-flight championship success, the city council confirmed, ending at Albert Square.Manchester United will commence the victory parade to celebrate its 20th league title success with a send-off at Old Trafford.

The parade will also offer the chance for United fans at large to bid farewell to Sir Alex Ferguson, who announced on Wednesday that he will retire as manager at the end of the season.

An open-top bus procession, that will see United make their way through Manchester, will get underway this coming Monday in the forecourt of the stadium's East Stand, leaving via Sir Matt Busby Way, Manchester City council confirmed.

The motorcade will roll towards the city center, taking in Chester Road, Deansgate and Lloyd Street, before reaching Albert Square, with Sir Alex expected to make a speech before the festivities conclude.

Road closures will also be in place, according to the Council, with people traveling to and from the center of Manchester warned that traffic will be disrupted during the parade that will also affect public transport.

United will be presented with the Premier League trophy after the final home game with Swansea on Saturday after wrestling it away from local rivals Manchester City, while chief executive David Gill praised the fans for their contribution during the season.

"The support from the fans has been incredible this season and we're looking forward to celebrating with them during the trophy parade," he told BBC News.

 

[Wolverine GTR]

The End of and Era

The End of and Era


The Story begins

Alex Ferguson is unveiled as the new Manchester United manager by Martin Edwards on November 5, 1986

Making a Mark

Mark Robins celebrates his goal for United against Forest in the FA Cup which famously saved Alex Ferguson from the sack in 1990

Sweet FA

Manchester United players celebrate after winning the 1990 FA Cup, Alex Ferguson's first trophy at the club

Meeting of minds

Alex Ferguson chats with another of Man United's legendary managers, Sir Matt Busby, ahead of the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup final in 1991

First European success

Alex Ferguson with the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup after a 2-1 win over Barcelona in Rotterdam in 1991

Just champion

Alex Ferguson with the Premier League trophy after Manchester United's first title win for 26 years in 1993

The second coming

Alex Ferguson and Brian Kidd after winning back-to-back Premier League titles in 1994, also the first time he did the Double

I'd love it

One of Man United's greatest title wins came in 1996 when they clawed back a 12-point gap in January to overhaul Kevin Keegan's Newcastle

A King is born

Eric Cantona helped Alex Ferguson do the FA Cup and Premier League Double in 1996

Stuff of Champions

Alex Ferguson after Manchester United's dramatic, late Champions League win over Bayern Munich in 1999

On a wing and a prayer

David Beckham and Sir Alex Ferguson had a somewhat fiery relationship throughout the winger's time at Old Trafford

Tale of the tape

Alex Ferguson celebrates with his Manchester United team after winning the Premier League title in 2003

50-50

The signings of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kleberson on the same day in 2003 showed the contrasting success of Sir Alex Ferguson's transfer policy that summer

Golden season

Sir Alex Ferguson won both the Champions League and the Premier League in the same season for a second time in 2008

Ref justice

Sir Alex Ferguson was never afraid to make his views known to match officials, here arguing with Alan Wiley in 2009

Guard of honour

Pep Guardiola and Sir Alex Ferguson embrace before the 2011 Champions League final - but Guardiola's Barcelona lifted the trophy against United in both 2009 and 2011

Not 19 forever

Sir Alex Ferguson celebrates winning a landmark 19th title in 2011, which saw United overtake Liverpool's total of 18

In honour

In November 2012, United unveilved a statue of Sir Alex Ferguson

Rockin' Robin

Sir Alex Ferguson's final great signing was Robin van Persie, who fired United to a 20th title in 2013


SAF you are the Great!​

 

[unicornx]

The End of and Era


The Story begins

Alex Ferguson is unveiled as the new Manchester United manager by Martin Edwards on November 5, 1986

Making a Mark

Mark Robins celebrates his goal for United against Forest in the FA Cup which famously saved Alex Ferguson from the sack in 1990

Sweet FA

Manchester United players celebrate after winning the 1990 FA Cup, Alex Ferguson's first trophy at the club

Meeting of minds

Alex Ferguson chats with another of Man United's legendary managers, Sir Matt Busby, ahead of the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup final in 1991

First European success

Alex Ferguson with the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup after a 2-1 win over Barcelona in Rotterdam in 1991

Just champion

Alex Ferguson with the Premier League trophy after Manchester United's first title win for 26 years in 1993

The second coming

Alex Ferguson and Brian Kidd after winning back-to-back Premier League titles in 1994, also the first time he did the Double

I'd love it

One of Man United's greatest title wins came in 1996 when they clawed back a 12-point gap in January to overhaul Kevin Keegan's Newcastle

A King is born

Eric Cantona helped Alex Ferguson do the FA Cup and Premier League Double in 1996

Stuff of Champions

Alex Ferguson after Manchester United's dramatic, late Champions League win over Bayern Munich in 1999

On a wing and a prayer

David Beckham and Sir Alex Ferguson had a somewhat fiery relationship throughout the winger's time at Old Trafford

Tale of the tape

Alex Ferguson celebrates with his Manchester United team after winning the Premier League title in 2003

50-50

The signings of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kleberson on the same day in 2003 showed the contrasting success of Sir Alex Ferguson's transfer policy that summer

Golden season

Sir Alex Ferguson won both the Champions League and the Premier League in the same season for a second time in 2008

Ref justice

Sir Alex Ferguson was never afraid to make his views known to match officials, here arguing with Alan Wiley in 2009

Guard of honour

Pep Guardiola and Sir Alex Ferguson embrace before the 2011 Champions League final - but Guardiola's Barcelona lifted the trophy against United in both 2009 and 2011

Not 19 forever

Sir Alex Ferguson celebrates winning a landmark 19th title in 2011, which saw United overtake Liverpool's total of 18

In honour

In November 2012, United unveilved a statue of Sir Alex Ferguson

Rockin' Robin

Sir Alex Ferguson's final great signing was Robin van Persie, who fired United to a 20th title in 2013


SAF you are the Great!​

I dont think this skill and the brand cannot be substituted ever any guesses abt the new coach? What about Jupp Heyneks?

 

[unicornx]

 

[rcccc]

Tottenham boss Villas-Boas hoping for a favor in top-four battle

 

[rcccc]

The End of and Era





On a wing and a prayer

David Beckham and Sir Alex Ferguson had a somewhat fiery relationship throughout the winger's time at Old Trafford

Tale of the tape

Alex Ferguson celebrates with his Manchester United team after winning the Premier League title in 2003

50-50

The signings of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kleberson on the same day in 2003 showed the contrasting success of Sir Alex Ferguson's transfer policy that summer




Rockin' Robin

Sir Alex Ferguson's final great signing was Robin van Persie, who fired United to a 20th title in 2013


SAF you are the Great!​

 

[unicornx]

His first senior goal came with a freekick. [Vs
Portsmouth]
100th United goal came with a freekick [Vs Stoke
City]
100th Real Madrid goal came with a freekick [Vs
Lyon]
200th Real Madrid goal came with a freekick [Vs
Malaga]
Cristiano Ronaldo & Freekick, still a better love
story than Twillight..

 

[මුගටියා]

The End of and Era


The Story begins

Alex Ferguson is unveiled as the new Manchester United manager by Martin Edwards on November 5, 1986

Making a Mark

Mark Robins celebrates his goal for United against Forest in the FA Cup which famously saved Alex Ferguson from the sack in 1990

Sweet FA

Manchester United players celebrate after winning the 1990 FA Cup, Alex Ferguson's first trophy at the club

Meeting of minds

Alex Ferguson chats with another of Man United's legendary managers, Sir Matt Busby, ahead of the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup final in 1991

First European success

Alex Ferguson with the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup after a 2-1 win over Barcelona in Rotterdam in 1991

Just champion

Alex Ferguson with the Premier League trophy after Manchester United's first title win for 26 years in 1993

The second coming

Alex Ferguson and Brian Kidd after winning back-to-back Premier League titles in 1994, also the first time he did the Double

I'd love it

One of Man United's greatest title wins came in 1996 when they clawed back a 12-point gap in January to overhaul Kevin Keegan's Newcastle

A King is born

Eric Cantona helped Alex Ferguson do the FA Cup and Premier League Double in 1996

Stuff of Champions

Alex Ferguson after Manchester United's dramatic, late Champions League win over Bayern Munich in 1999

On a wing and a prayer

David Beckham and Sir Alex Ferguson had a somewhat fiery relationship throughout the winger's time at Old Trafford

Tale of the tape

Alex Ferguson celebrates with his Manchester United team after winning the Premier League title in 2003

50-50

The signings of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kleberson on the same day in 2003 showed the contrasting success of Sir Alex Ferguson's transfer policy that summer

Golden season

Sir Alex Ferguson won both the Champions League and the Premier League in the same season for a second time in 2008

Ref justice

Sir Alex Ferguson was never afraid to make his views known to match officials, here arguing with Alan Wiley in 2009

Guard of honour

Pep Guardiola and Sir Alex Ferguson embrace before the 2011 Champions League final - but Guardiola's Barcelona lifted the trophy against United in both 2009 and 2011

Not 19 forever

Sir Alex Ferguson celebrates winning a landmark 19th title in 2011, which saw United overtake Liverpool's total of 18

In honour

In November 2012, United unveilved a statue of Sir Alex Ferguson

Rockin' Robin

Sir Alex Ferguson's final great signing was Robin van Persie, who fired United to a 20th title in 2013


SAF you are the Great!​

 

[unicornx]

 

[මුගටියා]

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

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.

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.

'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.

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.

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.’

Ferguson’s remarkable 27-year reign as United manager will end in 10 days. On a momentous day for English football, his imminent departure was confirmed at 9.20am on Wednesday.
United will announce Moyes’s appointment later on Thursday, after thrashing out the details of a contract worth in the region of £5m a year.
Now it can be revealed that not only was 71-year-old Ferguson closely involved in discussions about his replacement, he was actually the key man in picking Moyes. Ferguson has always been a fan of the manager he once considered for a coaching role when his fellow Glaswegian was in charge at Preston in the 1990s.
Having told the Glazer family, United’s owners, back in March that he intended to stand down, Ferguson implored them to hire the Everton boss.

Other key influences, such as Sir Bobby Charlton and Gill, share Ferguson’s view that the 50-year-old will bring United the same ideals of longevity and continuity that are integral to the club, as well as placing an enormous emphasis on the youth system at Old Trafford.
On Wednesday night, Moyes was locked in talks with Kenwright about the best way to arrange his departure. Moyes’s contract at Goodison Park expires at the end of the season and he is entitled to walk away.
After meeting with Moyes on Wednesday night, Kenwright conceded he had little say in the matter, though he said he knew nothing of an agreement already being in place.
He told Sky Sports News: 'I don't know about a deal being done. David had a meeting scheduled with me and we've just had a good meeting.
'At the end of the day David's contract is up in six weeks' time and he has a right to make his own decisions. He's served this club wonderfully well and he has a right to make his own decisions.'
Asked if Moyes would still be in charge for Sunday's game against West Ham, Kenwright added: 'Yes, of course he is.'
Stars such as Rooney and Ryan Giggs were sitting having breakfast at United’s training ground at 9am when they were summoned to a meeting in the dressing room, where Ferguson told them of his intentions.
The much-decorated manager then moved on to two other meetings, where he informed his coaches and administrative staff that Sunday’s match against Swansea would be his last in charge at Old Trafford. The players were told not to tweet about their manager’s departure.

Ferguson said in a statement: ‘The quality of this league-winning squad, and the balance of ages within it, bodes well for continued success at the highest level, while the structure of the youth set-up will ensure that the long-term future of the club remains a bright one.’
Ferguson will lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday, take charge for the final match of the season at West Bromwich Albion and then retire to pursue other interests and take up a position on the club’s board.
In his role as non-executive director and honorary president, Ferguson’s input to club affairs will be limited. The board only meets once every two months and on Wednesday he told his players he would be going ‘nowhere near the dressing room’.
Mourinho was another name constantly linked with the United job. It is understood, though, that he was never a realistic candidate, with United’s owners feeling his penchant for controversy would be too much for a club soon to be deprived of the authoritative figure of Gill.

It emerged on Wednesday night that Gill’s decision to resign in February was done in the knowledge that this season could also be Ferguson’s last.
Moyes will now be left to form his own relationship with incoming chief executive Ed Woodward. Everton and England defender Leighton Baines is likely to be an early target.
It is not yet known what will happen to Ferguson’s current coaching staff. Moyes works closely at Goodison with Steve Round and Chris Woods and may want to integrate his own people into what is already a successful United system.
It is possible that former United defender Phil Neville, who is also leaving Everton this summer, will return to Old Trafford with Moyes as a coach, while United veterans Paul Scholes and Giggs are also being considered for coaching roles.

DailyMail

 

[unicornx]

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

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.

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.

'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.

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.

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.’

Ferguson’s remarkable 27-year reign as United manager will end in 10 days. On a momentous day for English football, his imminent departure was confirmed at 9.20am on Wednesday.
United will announce Moyes’s appointment later on Thursday, after thrashing out the details of a contract worth in the region of £5m a year.
Now it can be revealed that not only was 71-year-old Ferguson closely involved in discussions about his replacement, he was actually the key man in picking Moyes. Ferguson has always been a fan of the manager he once considered for a coaching role when his fellow Glaswegian was in charge at Preston in the 1990s.
Having told the Glazer family, United’s owners, back in March that he intended to stand down, Ferguson implored them to hire the Everton boss.

Other key influences, such as Sir Bobby Charlton and Gill, share Ferguson’s view that the 50-year-old will bring United the same ideals of longevity and continuity that are integral to the club, as well as placing an enormous emphasis on the youth system at Old Trafford.
On Wednesday night, Moyes was locked in talks with Kenwright about the best way to arrange his departure. Moyes’s contract at Goodison Park expires at the end of the season and he is entitled to walk away.
After meeting with Moyes on Wednesday night, Kenwright conceded he had little say in the matter, though he said he knew nothing of an agreement already being in place.
He told Sky Sports News: 'I don't know about a deal being done. David had a meeting scheduled with me and we've just had a good meeting.
'At the end of the day David's contract is up in six weeks' time and he has a right to make his own decisions. He's served this club wonderfully well and he has a right to make his own decisions.'
Asked if Moyes would still be in charge for Sunday's game against West Ham, Kenwright added: 'Yes, of course he is.'
Stars such as Rooney and Ryan Giggs were sitting having breakfast at United’s training ground at 9am when they were summoned to a meeting in the dressing room, where Ferguson told them of his intentions.
The much-decorated manager then moved on to two other meetings, where he informed his coaches and administrative staff that Sunday’s match against Swansea would be his last in charge at Old Trafford. The players were told not to tweet about their manager’s departure.

Ferguson said in a statement: ‘The quality of this league-winning squad, and the balance of ages within it, bodes well for continued success at the highest level, while the structure of the youth set-up will ensure that the long-term future of the club remains a bright one.’
Ferguson will lift the Premier League trophy on Sunday, take charge for the final match of the season at West Bromwich Albion and then retire to pursue other interests and take up a position on the club’s board.
In his role as non-executive director and honorary president, Ferguson’s input to club affairs will be limited. The board only meets once every two months and on Wednesday he told his players he would be going ‘nowhere near the dressing room’.
Mourinho was another name constantly linked with the United job. It is understood, though, that he was never a realistic candidate, with United’s owners feeling his penchant for controversy would be too much for a club soon to be deprived of the authoritative figure of Gill.

It emerged on Wednesday night that Gill’s decision to resign in February was done in the knowledge that this season could also be Ferguson’s last.
Moyes will now be left to form his own relationship with incoming chief executive Ed Woodward. Everton and England defender Leighton Baines is likely to be an early target.
It is not yet known what will happen to Ferguson’s current coaching staff. Moyes works closely at Goodison with Steve Round and Chris Woods and may want to integrate his own people into what is already a successful United system.
It is possible that former United defender Phil Neville, who is also leaving Everton this summer, will return to Old Trafford with Moyes as a coach, while United veterans Paul Scholes and Giggs are also being considered for coaching roles.

DailyMail

Hmmm jose has not done yet with Madrid and neither Chris

 

[Wolverine GTR]

I dont think this skill and the brand cannot be substituted ever any guesses abt the new coach? What about Jupp Heyneks?

Ya true bro

anyway David Moyes will be the man

 

[Wolverine GTR]

Manchester United confirm appointment of David Moyes on a six-year contract

Manchester United have confirmed the appointment of David Moyes as their new manager on a six-year contract.The 50-year-old will take charge at Old Trafford on July 1 after completing the season with Everton.

Moyes has the backing of Sir Alex Ferguson, who will retire at the end of the season, and his first official game will be the Community Shield against either Manchester City or Wigan at Wembley on August 11.Moyes, who has spent 11 years with Everton, said: "It's a great honour to be asked to be the next manager of Manchester United.

"I am delighted that Sir Alex saw fit to recommend me for the job. I have great respect for everything he has done and for the football club.

"I know how hard it will be to follow the best manager ever, but the opportunity to manage Manchester United isn't something that comes around very often and I'm really looking forward to taking up the post next season."I have had a terrific job at Everton, with a tremendous chairman and board of directors and a great set of players."Between now and the end of the season, I will do everything in my power to make sure we finish as high as possible in the table.

"Everton's fantastic fans have played a big part in making my years at Goodison so enjoyable and I thank them wholeheartedly for the support they have given me and the players."Everton will be close to me for the rest of my life."

Ferguson, who is stepping down as United manager after a near 27-year stint, said: "When we discussed the candidates that we felt had the right attributes, we unanimously agreed on David Moyes. David is a man of great integrity with a strong work ethic."I've admired his work for a long time and approached him as far back as 1998 to discuss the position of assistant manager here.

"He was a young man then at the start of his career and has since gone on to do a magnificent job at Everton."There is no question he has all the qualities we expect of a manager at this club."

Served wonderfully well

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright paid tribute to Moyes earlier on Thursday after it emerged that he would be leaving Goodison Park after 11 years at the helm.

He said: "I think, at the end of the day, David's contract is up in six weeks' time and he has a right to make his own decisions. He's served this club wonderfully well."

Moyes quickly emerged as the favourite to become United's boss after Sir Alex Ferguson announced he would be retiring, and received widespread support.
Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen revealed he would choose the Everton boss, saying: "What an act to follow. I guess only Mourinho would have the confidence to strut through the door. If it were me, I'd go for Moyes."Former United keeper Peter Schmeichel also gave his backing to Moyes, saying: "When we talk about Moyes, he has been a decade at Everton and done a fantastic job on limited funds.

"Is he cut from the same cloth? I don't know. Don't forget there will be major changes with David Gill stepping down - the club is really changing in the summer, the more stability they can add the better."David Moyes, he sounds like a good solution."

Opportunities

United chief executive David Gill had previously outlined the qualities needed to succeed Ferguson as manager, saying: "The qualities are the ones that have been inherent at Manchester United for many years.

"Our two most successful eras were with managers who got involved with all aspects of the club, from the youth team to the first team, to get that degree of loyalty and understanding of the football club."Clearly he has to have the requisite football experience, both in terms of domestic and European experience. It is a small pool."

Everton, meanwhile, must start their search for a successor to Moyes, and Mark Hughes has refused to rule himself out of the running for the job.

"I think when one manager leaves there are opportunities for other managers who are currently out of work, which includes myself," Hughes told Sky Sports News.
"It's a great club; it's a club that I had the fortune to play for and really enjoyed my time there."​

 

[Wolverine GTR]

Congratulations David Moyes!

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