Pre Season

Crystal Ball Volume VI – United Will Win the Champions League this Season.

ON THE CUSP OF ANOTHER CAMPAIGN, WE ASKED SOME OF OUR WRITERS, CONTRIBUTORS AND FRIENDS OF THE SITE TO PUT THEIR NECK ON THE LINE AND SHARE SOME PREDICTIONS ABOUT THE SEASON AHEAD:

Psychic identity? Ed

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

That the Glazer family finally decides now is time to get the hell out of town, launches a second wave of stock offering, this time a full sale with full voting rights. It’ll give supporters the chance to grab a slice of ownership and a real say in the running of our club. Chances of it actually happening: virtually zero. On the pitch I hope somebody emerges from the midfield black hole to become Paul Scholes’ successor. It’s patently obvious that Sir Alex Ferguson isn’t going to sign a ‘proper’ central midfielder – Shinji Kagawa, fine player though he is, does his best work far further forward. It’s anathama, Sir Alex’ mental roadblock on the position, and surely a massive strategic error. There’s little faith thatAndersonwill buck five years of history to become both fit and consistent. But Tom Cleverley might just do it. Has to stay injury-free though.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

If ownership change and midfield are the biggest hopes, then they are the biggest fears too. The New York IPO may well have entrenched the Glazers longer still having staved off whatever desperate need they had for short-term cash. The voting structure and registration in the Cayman Islands means we’ll have less information than ever about the club’s management. Meanwhile, Sir Alex, who is actually emboldened by the Glazers aloof management, will continue to drive a wedge between him and the supporters. On the pitch – no matter how many great attacking players United has if there’s no base in midfield,Ferguson’s side will struggle against the very best. Perhaps Robin van Persie’s excellent conversion rate will make the difference when his side is on the back foot. But there’s a very good chance United will struggle to gain a foothold in some games.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Well it’s obvious that Wayne Rooney and van Persie need to have big seasons for United to do well, but let’s hope Cleverley emerges as a ‘United player’ of the very highest order. He’s a young lad with all the right skills and there’s much to admire in how well – and quickly – he recycles possession. There’s doubts about his fitness of course, but if that can be solved – or better luck comes his way – then this could well be the midfielders breakthrough season for club and country.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

Paul Scholes. It’s hard to say but there are real signs that the Ginger Price, the midfield genius, the finest player of his generation, will have a campaign to forget. Before a ball is kicked, Scholes has looked a little drained from pre-season. Sure, he’s still ‘got it’ on the ball, but Scholes look knackered towards the back end of last season – and that was from just five months in the first team. Should Cleverley, Fletcher and Anderson struggle for fitness again, Scholes may well be needed more than the 25 games Sir Alex has predicted. Then comes real trouble. Let’s hope a legacy isn’t tarnished.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Yaya Toure. There are so many good players everywhere in the Premier League, but given the above comments on midfield then City’s powerhouse has to be first choice. What a player he is – so much more than simply the water carrier so many billed him as. A great defender, a great attacker and a great leader. Arguably the finest all-round midfielder in the Premier League since Roy Keane. £24 million – the cost of Ashley Young and Bebe.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

 (4-2-3-1) De Gea; Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Cleverley, Carrick; Nani, Rooney, Kagawa; van Persie - it’s a bit of a fudge because everything I’ve seen of Kagawa tells me he’s a far superior player ‘in the hole’ than he is playing from the left. But Nani is 25 per cent better on the right than the left, and both players are intelligent enough to provide the kind of flexible front line that was so exciting back in 2008.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

Well, my prediction on this week’s podcast was second so I’ll stick with that. Much depends on the last couple of week’s in the transfer window. If City don’t manage to offload a few players and bring in an extra midfielder then Roberto Mancini’s side hasn’t progressed over the summer. Should United remain injury-free, Cleverley emerge as a contender in midfield, and van Persie hit the ground running… the title is, of course, a possibility for the Reds.

How will we fare in Europe?

Knock out stages, but no more than that. Sorry to harp on about midfield, but there isn’t a game won inEuropethat isn’t all about the centre of the pitch.Fergusonwill compromise by bringing in another midfielder, forcing Rooney out of position. Arguably the finest player in the league – and he’ll end up on the left wing.

 Any other predictions?

The Scouse mafia in the media will laud Liverpool as the finest side in the land after the first 15 minutes of Brendan Rodgers’ tiki-taka, but there’ll still be no trophies. Arsene Wenger’s side will flatter to deceive once again, and finish pot-less, and Chelsea will progress into the top four on the wave of some outstanding attacking, but dodgy defending.

Ed is the cohost of the United Rant Podcast “The Rant Cast“. You can follow him on twitter here.

Psychic identity? Stephen

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

We click up top and return to the swashbuckling days of yore.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

We suffer another 6-1 or blow it in the smallest margin again.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Antonio Valencia – the boy doesn’t know the meaning of the word ‘fail’

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

Disappoint is an unfair phrase but feel Cleverley will disappoint however well he does due to expectations of him being centre mid saviour.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Alex Song – would be perfect in our midfield but not sure Arsene would sell us another one.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

(4-2-3-1) De Gea, Smalling, Evans, Vidic, Evra, Carrick, Cleverley, Rooney, Kagawa, Valencia, RVP.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

With the signing of Van Persie I think we’ll sneak the league title this year.

How will we fare in Europe?

Semi finals would be a good effort depending on who we face.

Any other predictions?

Big Sam, Steve Clarke sacked. Another player ‘drama’ at City and Liverpool to no doubt be the victims of an injustice at some point.

Stephen is a much loved regular guest on our podcast. He also writes for the ‘The Stretford End‘. You can follow him on twitter here.

Psychic identity? Adam

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

The Premier League is our bread and butter and the priority must be to reassert our dominance on our own patch. I think that means not only reclaiming the Premier League but doing so emphatically, playing with freedom, pace and width. I’d also love an FA Cup win, we have won only one since 1999 (in 2004), which is very disappointing for a club with our stature and heritage, and I’d like Sir Alex to start taking it a little more seriously.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

Another Champions League embarrassment. As it happens, I don’t think it was a case of United not being good enough in last year’s group stage, more a case of complacency both from the manager in his team selection and the players in thinking they could stroll through. I hope those lessons have been learned, and, with the new additions, we could go quite far this year.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Tom Cleverley is such an intelligent player, such a Manchester United youth product. By that, I mean he injects pace into play, passes and moves, plays the game in his brain and has a great awareness of space. He does seem to be a little brittle, and last season Cleverley was blighted by injuries after a terrific start and then he struggled to regain his form when he returned at the end of the season. But his form for Team GB at the Olympics and for England v Italy has been encouraging and I expect him to be really impressive this season. Kagawa and van Persie will be great I think, while Scholes and Giggs will continue to be a help rather than a hindrance.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

Anderson must surely be in last-chance saloon territory now, you can’t get away with being this ineffective for so long, surely. Other than that, David de Gea has to improve from last year, he made too many errors and only really came good in the last three months of the season. That was understandable, as a young player coming to a foreign country with the pressure of replacing Van der Sar but it’s got to be more assured from the Spaniard for United to reclaim the title this season. Rafael must also improve his concentration and positioning in key spells of matches.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Yohan Cabaye is one of my favourite players and he would be a smashing addition to the midfield. He is a wonderful passer and not afraid of a tough challenge. Classy.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

(4-2-3-1) De Gea – Rafael Smalling Vidic Evra – Cleverley Carrick – Nani Rooney Kagawa – Van Persie

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

1^st. Only Manchester United and Chelsea have retained the title in the Premier League title which tells you just how difficult it is, and City may well find that out. It is telling that even Arsenal’s Invincibles couldn’t achieve the feat. It will be nice to see a run-in where both United and City still have the latter stages Champions League to consider, because last year all the eggs and intensity were very much in one basket from February to May, hence the high points tallies.

How will we fare in Europe?

Certainly the latter stages, and, with the firepower at our disposal, plus the expected development of de Gea, Rafael, Smalling, Jones, Cleverley, Welbeck etc, I will say United will win the Champions League this season.

Any other predictions?

Torres and Tevez to have much improved seasons and both should reach at least 20 goals.

Chicharito to score late winning goals/equalisers ‘a la’ Solskjaer in a few games.

Swansea, Norwich and Southampton to be relegated. (but Stoke will come mighty close)

QPR, Everton and Newcastle to have strong top-half finishes.

Sir Alex Ferguson to retire at the end of the season.

Adam has written for the Daily Mail, The People and thefa.com. You can follow him on twitter here.

Psychic identity? Noz

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

That it works. That the mouth-watering prospect of Kagawa, Rooney and Van Persie works. And there’s Valencia, and Wellbeck, and Hernandez, and Nani. In theory it’s all there in quantity and quality for every eventuality – and it’s bloody exciting. Much like a dodgy late night cocktail it’s extremely fluid with the potential to knock you out.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

That the embarrassment of riches in attack isn’t balanced out by the fragility of our midfield options. United’s current squad list reads like Jessica Rabbit’s vital statistics: overflowing upfront, plenty at the back, but worryingly thin in the middle. The first choice options don’t seem too shabby – Carrick and Cleverley look like a great combination, with Scholesy blessing us with his presence whenever possible. But beyond that, we’re about as well stocked as a supermodel’s bingo wing.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Kagawa. I’ve been raving about him to anyone who’d listen for ages. There’s certain players you just fall in love with, like Bergkamp or Baggio or Laudrup, but they never join your club. But Kagawa has. He’s such a joy to watch with his wonderful vision and technique. And I honestly believe he can be a catalyst for other players and our style of play. If he can hit it off with Cleverley for instance, with his clever one touch passing and movement, it could be a joy to behold.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

It’s a difficult one because a) I don’t want to be pessimistic going into a packet-fresh new season, and b) anyone I mention won’t be a disappointment because it won’t be a surprise. I know he’s scored goals and done okay, but I don’t know what a player like Ashley Young is doing at United. He leaves me cold. And Anderson. Football is what he does between meals. Part of me wonders whether he’s replaced Fred the Red as the club mascot – a large smiley non-footballer paid to act the fool around the first team.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

You don’t need to ask. We all know who he is and who he plays for. Massive.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

De Gea / Rafael Ferdinand Vidic Evra / Carrick Cleverley / Kagawa / Rooney Van Persie …but there’s no wingers! Oh I don’t know! Not my problem!

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

Champions. I can’t help but start a season full of giddy optimism.

How will we fare in Europe?

I’m not that giddy. Quarter-finals. Semis at a stretch. As long as we win the league, Europe can wait.

Any other predictions?

In terms of United fans, love will tear us apart (again).

Noz is the artisitc genius behind our new look. His wisdom and photoshop skills have earned him thousands of admirers on twitter.

 

Crystal Ball V: With Robin van Persie, The Title is Ours

ON THE CUSP OF ANOTHER CAMPAIGN, WE ASKED SOME OF OUR WRITERS, CONTRIBUTORS AND FRIENDS OF THE SITE TO PUT THEIR NECK ON THE LINE AND SHARE SOME PREDICTIONS ABOUT THE SEASON AHEAD:

(Editor’s note: All the below predictions were made before RvP joined.)

Psychic identity? Musa

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

That Tom Cleverley enjoys an injury-free season.  His intelligent movement and passing make him a really exciting prospect, and I can’t wait to see him have an uninterrupted run in the side.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

That we’ll slip further behind Manchester City in the league and disappoint in Europe, given our failure to strengthen in defence and at the base of midfield.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Antonio Valencia.  His tremendous work ethic means that, even if things aren’t coming off for him, he still remains productive.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

Javier Hernandez.  Not through any fault of his own, but because we seem to be reconfiguring our attack and he looks like he might be marginalised.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

It’s got to be Yaya Toure, hasn’t it?

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

4-3-3.        De Gea;

Jones, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra;

Carrick, Cleverley, Scholes;

Valencia, Rooney, Nani.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

First.  Let’s be positive, eh?

How will we fare in Europe?

Semi-finals. Just think we’re a little short in midfield to go all the way this year.

Any other predictions?

Danny Welbeck to add consistent goalscoring to his game – he’s got the taste for it now.

Musa is a contributor to our site. He is a published author, journalist, poet and musician! Find out more at his site. You can follow him on twitter here.

Psychic identity? Doron

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

I think oddly enough it’s that we have some luck with injuries. If that happens hopefully what follows should be good enough. The somewhat bizarre reality is that if it weren’t for injuries, we’d have probably won the league. Clearly you can’t expect to have no injuries but we had crisis after crisis, more players out for longer than any other team. Either we’re due better luck or our rivals are due worse luck (with the exception of Arsenal, they seem to get it bad too).

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

I could easily give the same answer as before! I guess it remains the ownership though. It’s quite sad really that as a fan I spend more time worrying about that than actual playing matters. In truth, whilst Fergie’s at the helm, I feel like there’s little to worry about on the pitch (despite lacking one quality central midfielder). I’m no financial expert but I know that what’s going on right now with the IPO makes me uneasy. This feels like an important time for the health and future of the club so I guess that has to be a large fear of mine right now – not knowing what might happen.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

It feels a bit obvious to just name those who did well last year but I think we’ll be talking positively about De Gea, Vidic and Kagawa come next May. I get the feeling David’s learning fast and already scarily complete as a goalkeeper – I think it won’t be long before he’s talked about as one of the best in the world. Vidic obviously missed most of last season but even with the time out I think he’ll come back as good as ever. He’s such an important player and almost never below par. As for Shinji, I don’t think I’ve been this excited about a signing in a while. I know pre-season is only just that but he’s looked fabulous – so sharp; aware of space and his team-mates; and will add some much needed creativity in the final third.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

I’m not sure really – hard to predict who won’t do well. Ashley Young splits fans – he’s not amazing but he’s effective; I guess if I was pushed to pick one player it might be him… or Anderson, although I really want Anderson to come good. Actually, having thought about it, and this pains me, I think it’ll be Giggs. Against what my heart says, I think he should have retired this summer. Whilst still capable of moments of magic, the rest of the time he’s tending to be below average and almost at times a liability. Still, it feels a privilege to be able to still watch him.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Yaya, NQAT.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

Presuming everyone is fit: De Gea, Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Carrick, Scholes, Valencia, Kagawa, Nani, Rooney. That would be a 4-2-3-1 with Carrick and Scholes sitting deep when not in possession and one of them pushing on when we have it. Kagawa would drop to help but he’d fill the space behind Rooney. Valencia and Nani out wide and getting high up the pitch.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

The longer City go without investing in their squad, I’m getting worryingly optimistic. However, despite what Mancini thinks, I reckon we’ll be close behind City again. They’re the champions and the team to beat. I’d rather be pleasantly surprised than end up disappointed.

How will we fare in Europe?

Better than last year, I’m confident we won’t make the same errors both in terms of sloppiness and team selections. I guess a safe guess would be quarter finals but it would be nice to think we could make the semis.

Any other predictions

I actually think Liverpool will improve and as the squads stand, I think Chelsea may be in for a hard season despite adding just about every central attacking midfielder going. At the other end I think Swansea might have ‘second-season-syndrome’ whilst I think Norwich and all three newly promoted teams might struggle.

Doron is a writer for Stretford End. You can follow him on twitter.

Psychic identity? ManUtd24

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

Simply, that we improve. We might have over-achieved in the League last year, but then that makes it harder to take that we just lost out on goal difference. A trophy, at least, that isn’t the League Cup, would warrant improvement and I’m sure we’re still good enough to do that. Specifically, I want a better performance in Europe, and in the FA Cup, where, having not took part in 2000, we decided to do the same and not participate in the last seven or eight years.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

That it’s like the last one. You could say we have to be realistic and though it’s wrong to expect a lot of silverware, it isn’t to expect it the idea generally because this has been the club in the last decade. Really, as touched on, the fear that we don’t improve — others are, it would seem. I mean, we have Spurs, Chelsea and Arsenal who all could and should get better, and that’s ignoring Manchester City.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Shinji Kagawa would be the obvious answer but I’d hate to put myself in a position where I expect too much. Too late? Anyway, Danny Welbeck or David de Gea. Think Sir Alex Ferguson’s said that he should be able to improve on from his low double figures scoring tally from the last campaign, and he’s looked a more accomplished player as he develops his all-round game, while all de Gea has to do is the same thing he did post-January.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

Anderson. Next.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Definitely Alex Song. No player in the country is a successful as him with the through ball and he’s quite a presence, too, able to assume a defensive role or another going forward.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

I’ll choose from the players we had at the start of August: de Gea; Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Valencia, Carrick, Scholes, Nani; Kagawa; Rooney. Feels wrong to leave out Welbeck! Kagawa, though, links up midfield and attack, (well, I’d like to think he would at Old Trafford) and can take United away from the classic 4-4-2 to a more refined continental formation that’s all the fuss these days.

How do you think we will fare in Europe this year?

Without seeing the new team, I don’t think we’re good enough to win the Champions League. It’ll be become clearer after a while just how good we are as a team, but I’m not entirely confident. I do believe, however, that we have the personnel to win the League;   it’s less difficult and we were close to doing so with similar players last year even if we compared unfavourably to City. But winning in Europe requires more; our last two continent-conquering sides were Sir Alex’s best ever: in 1999 and 2008. That’s not ruling it out completely, though. After all, the sixth best club in England have the bizarre title of ‘Champions of Europe.’

Where will we finish in the PL?

We can finish top, but, at the time of writing, Robin van Persie isn’t a Manchester United player so I’ll say City. But imagine having the two best forwards (goalscoring forwards, that is, because Aguero performed far better than Rooney) of last season up front? If he’s ours, the title’s ours. Anyway, it is possible van Persie-less, but it would be wrong to suggest that this team would grow and get better and just ignore the others; City will also get better, unfortunately.

Check out the ManUtd24 site here and follow him on Twitter.

Crystal Ball IV – United Will Finish Top Of The Tree.

ON THE CUSP OF ANOTHER CAMPAIGN, WE ASKED SOME OF OUR WRITERS, CONTRIBUTORS AND FRIENDS OF THE SITE TO PUT THEIR NECK ON THE LINE AND SHARE SOME PREDICTIONS ABOUT THE SEASON AHEAD:

(Editor’s note: All the below predictions were made before RvP joined.)

Psychic identity? Jonas

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

That the attacking play that was on display in the early goings on of last season is brought back. It was a relief to see a United side who aimed to have games done and dusted by half time again. The emergence of the younger players is also something I feel is necessary, and will probably be an important of next season. In many ways I feel United have no other alternative than to give youth a bigger spot after having witnessed coming stars such as Pogba and Morrison leave. Youthful spirit and attacking presence embodies United. Always has, always will.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

Perhaps that the midfield will be as heavily destroyed as it was at a stage last season. I feel that the involvement of players such as Cleverley will play a huge, huge part this season. A midfield pairing of Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick won’t last 50 games+ during the course of a season.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Wayne Rooney. He’s entering the prime of his career and it’s time for him to really claim his spot as one of the world’s best on a regular basis. Rooney has had glimpses of pure excellence or small periods of time. This season should be the one where that brilliance is given a long, consistent run.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

Anderson. Huge potential and still has the chance to become a focal point for both Manchester United and the Brazilian national team. Injuries and lack of determination seems to be what’s keeping him back. One may wonder if the ACL injury to his knee destroyed the pace and guile that seemed so promising when he arrived. Before every season I convince myself that he can still be a world class player, every year I’m left disappointed. Don’t think that’ll change this year.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

The easiest would be to go for someone like Sergio Agüero or Yaya Touré, but I’ll be a bit out of the ordinary; Sandro. If United are aiming to build a new midfield, then Tottenham’s Brazilian enforcer is the type of player you wanna build it around. Has captained Brazil, will bleed for the crest and gives you the sort of energy and passion you want from a central midfielder. It would perhaps be a bit blasphemic to compare him to Roy Keane, but you see the same type of will and hunger to succeed that Keano had in his early days. Also stepping up at an international level at age 23.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

As a Bielsanist, I’ve devoted my attention to an attacking, high pressed style of football. The 4-2-3-1-formation used by United last year worked wonders in the early going and I wish to see more of that. With Kagawa in the team it also gives United another dimension in terms of interchanging positions when attacking. My line-up would be:

De Gea – Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra – Carrick, Cleverley -Valencia, Kagawa, Nani – Rooney.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

I think City will win the league again. Basically because they now know what they need to do in order to climb that mountain. I think United will either finish 2nd or 3rd depending on how well Roberto di Matteo’s new team clicks.

How will we fare in Europe?

Obviously it depends on the group. WIthout looking at the different pools, I believe United could potentially end up in a group with Juventus, PSG and Dortmund for example  . I think United will advance from the group stage. After that, I have no idea.

Any other predictions?

I predict a season where I have more wrong than right. That is of course due to my pessimistic self.

Jonas is one of our editors and a regular guest on our podcast. You can follow him on twitter.

Psychic identity? Charles

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

My biggest hope for this season in terms of on the field accomplishments is to take back the league trophy. Many of us in twitterland made the best of what was an utterly devastating end to the season, but truthfully losing out on our 20th league title to Manchester City hurt in the worst way. As much as I enjoy United succeeding in other competitions, the league is the one trophy that matters. Everything else is just a bonus.

As for the off the field accomplishments, would it not be bloody amazing to have United sold?

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

My biggest fear is that United fall further behind City and are outflanked by Chelsea. While the former has yet to make a splash in the market, the latter has caused more than a mere ripple, and while Chelsea’s lack of a proper centre forward remains after the departure of Didier Drogba, their additions in the midfield and particularly out wide are concerning. Aside from that, it’s the usual concerns a team of United’s calibre has every season: staying healthy, the players upon which we depend actually perform to their abilities, and the like.

In terms of off the pitch, my biggest fear is that the Glazers’ current IPO succeeds and they see no reason to sell the team or to pay down the debt.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Shinji Kagawa. That might be asking a bit much of a player adjusting to a new team, new culture, and new language, but I think the lad is capable of doing more than just assimilating. In the few glimpses we have had of him in a United shirt it has become clear what a great find he was by Sir Alex and the scouting staff. He is the exact player that United has been lacking in the final third for a few years now and I honestly believe he can be our answer to David Silva. I have been a fan of his ever since he joined Borussia Dortmund and if he was able to displace a prodigy like Mario Götze then the sky is the limit for Shinji inManchester. I think he has the exact right mentality to succeed.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

To be honest I expect to see Anderson finally do enough to justify his departure from the club. As perhaps the most pro-Anderson blogger online, this may come as a shock to some. But aside from his knack for getting injured (which is not really his fault) he has been far too inconsistent to deserve to play at Old Trafford with our badge over his heart. He has to prove to all of us this season that he is worth keeping around. Otherwise the “shits on Fabregas” part of his chant will feel more hyperbolic than Steven Gerrard’s comments that Liverpool should make the top four this term.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Yaya Toure in a heartbeat. The type of player that United desperately needs but seems incapable of finding. Or signing.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

A 4-2-3-1: de Gea; Rafael, Vidic (C), Ferdinand, Evra; Carrick, Cleverley; Nani, Kagawa, Young, Rooney. After last season I became converted to the Carrick-philia persuasion and I honestly believe that barring an injury Cleverley will take the next step this term. I chose Nani over Valencia on the right wing mainly because in a 4-2-3-1 the wide players need to be able to drop inside and be threats to score as well as cross. Nani has demonstrated an ability to do this while Valencia has yet to show that side to his game.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

Top of the tree, and I honestly do believe that. I would like to see us sign a left back and another midfielder, but based on the squad we have now I have zero issues in declaring that I expect nothing other than us celebrating come May. Mancini, you had best keep our trophy glistening, cos we’ll be back in May, to take it away, walking in a Fergie wonderland.

How will we fare in Europe?

After last season I’ve become wary of predicting anything in terms of the Champions League. I expect United to at least improve on our dismal showing last year and make it out of whichever group UEFA chooses for us… I mean whichever group into which we get drawn… After that, who knows. Perhaps a fourth triumph in that competition is written in the “stars” as Gary Neville so aptly put it.

Any other predictions

Kagawa will score 10+ goals and contribute 15+ assists.

Cleverley will play most of the season and prove himself a capable replacement for the new school Paul Scholes

David de Gea will solidify his control of the no 1 shirt.

Danny Welbeck and Chicharito will contribute at least 15-20 goals in all competitions.

Aaaand finally, perhaps my most daring and potentially foolhardy one of the lot, Nick Powell will score a big goal in a big game this year.

Charles is editor and podcaster for ‘The Busby boys’. You can follow him on twitter.

Psychic identity? Nik

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

Retain the league trophy and put our European hangover to bed. No matter which way you look at it, we threw the league away last season, with some scintillating away form. Adjusting our formation according to the opposition is key, and being bolder in the bigger games will help, especially with Chelsea bolstering their squad, and the likes of Arsenal and Newcastle buying astutely.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

That the Glazers will continue to drive a knife through our wondrous support, and that some fans continue to confuse issues and berate a fine man and manager, who has done nothing but work for the benefit of Manchester United and its fans. The club may have become an asset to the Americans, but it hasn’t to Fergie, and the team needs the best support we can offer.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

An outside bet would be Lingard, he has superb talent, and can play in any given attacking role. Otherwise Kagawa, the number 10 we craved for 2 seasons.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

I thought Anderson would have joined Gibson, Park and Obertan through the door, so I have to say him. Lindegaard needs to up his concentration when called upon.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Wilshere or Modric – either would complement the talent we have in Carrick, Kagawa, Cleverley and Fletcher. Both can carry the ball, and seek to create from deep.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

(4-2-3-1) de Gea, Evra,Rio, Vidic/Evans, Rafael – Carrick Scholes – Valencia Kagawa Nani – Rooney

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

1st

How will we fare in Europe?

Semi-finals – Transition/new system could hold us back.

Any other predictions?

Teams who had an easy time of it last season
whilst papering over the cracks could struggle; I’m thinking the likes
of West Brom, Stoke, Sunderland and Norwich.

Nik is a writer for ‘Stretford-end.com‘. You can follow him on twitter.

Crystal Ball III – Kagawa Can Make Our Good Players Great.

ON THE CUSP OF ANOTHER CAMPAIGN, WE ASKED SOME OF OUR WRITERS, CONTRIBUTORS AND FRIENDS OF THE SITE TO PUT THEIR NECK ON THE LINE AND SHARE SOME PREDICTIONS ABOUT THE SEASON AHEAD:

(Editor’s note: All the below predictions were made before RvP joined.)

Psychic identity? Tom

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

That the young players at the club are allowed the freedom to make mistakes as they develop as first team players. Most of the targets for fan abuse over the last few years have proved the morons to be wrong (Evans, Fletcher) so hopefully they’ll finally learn. However reading comments recently about Welbeck ‘not scoring enough’ and Cleveley being ‘a sicknote’ I can’t say I’m confident. In this era of intense scrutiny we risk instilling our greatest talents with fear to take risks. Patience is an under-valued quality.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

That the neglect of central midfield undermines the depth of talent elsewhere in the squad. We can have the finest central defenders and wingers in the league; but if after a couple of injuries we are again scratching around for options in central midfield, then it will cost us the league for a second consecutive year. We have quantity in terms of who can play there (Carrick, Cleverley, Scholes, Anderson, Giggs, Jones, Powell) but concerns over quality and consistency remain.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

I’m excited about a number of players who have the opportunity to move up a level; Welbeck, De Gea, Rafael and Smalling spring to mind. However the player I’m expecting to see emerge as a key player is Cleverley. In the absence of the signings we have craved and weak or ageing competition; he will never have a greater opportunity to establish himself as a key player. The indications of a move to a fluid, short passing style seems tailor made for him and I have faith he can seize his chance.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

It felt like a very special privilege to have an extra six months of ginger genius. However, given the lack of recruits, expectations that Scholes will be able to reproduce his spring 2012 form over an entire season are unrealistic. The consensus is behind a move to style of pressing, fluid football that will in turn increase the physical demands placed upon our midfield. Fatigue played a part in the run-in and sadly I think, like Giggs, he’d be best used as a cameo player in what really will be his final season.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Yaya Touré. On two occasions in the last two seasons he has effectively put on a show of what we are lacking. If he had worn Our Red rather than Their Blue last season we’d be going to Goodison as defending champions.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

4231; De Gea – Rafael Vidic Ferdinand Evra – Cleverley Carrick – Nani Kagawa Valencia – Welbeck.

I know, I know, leaving out Rooney seems mental but given Welbeck was the highlight of last season for me it would seem hypocritical to leave him out. Rooney firing on all cylinders would walk into this side; but it’s become the exception rather than the rule. Welbeck’s movement from the tip of our attack offers a fresh dimension to our play given his technical ability and aerial threat. I am hopeful of being surprised and Rooney enjoying a consistently brilliant season where he excels as a number 9.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

Runners up to City. The addition of Kagawa and an improved injury record will see us improve but the experience of having won it will have a galvanising effect on our neighbours. I still feel we are one quality central midfield specialist short. Chelsea and Arsenal look to have bought extremely well this summer – but maintaining our core of young players from last season will mean their improved understanding keeps us ahead of them.

How will we fare in Europe?

Better than last year I’m sure. Ferguson won’t have enjoyed the embarrassment of last year and will surely refrain from such wholesale rotation. If we can steer clear of major injuries and our inconsistent players find some form then we could make the last four. Our creative talents and goal threat is superior to all but the Spanish giants but we need to take more care of the ball and cut out the cheap defensive errors to succeed in continental competition.

Any other predictions?

Most expect that we are about to witness Giggs and Scholes’ final season in a United shirt, but I have a hunch the same will ring of true of Wayne Rooney. His relationship with the boss has been tested on a seasonal basis and this might be the campaign where things come to a head.

Arsenal will surprise a few people and put a strong challenge to Manchester for most of the season.

Phil Jones will play more games in central midfield than central defence.

Juventus will prove the closest challengers to Madrid and Barcelona in Europe.

Tom is one of our editors and a weekly guest on our podcast. You can follow him on twitter.

Psychic identity? Justin

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

Attacking football. I understand the modern game punishes a wide-open style, but what we saw in the second half of the season was far too timid and cautious.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

Injuries. Surely it can’t be as bad as last season. Can it?

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

I would have said Smalling, but he’s already had a setback. So I’ll go with Rafael – he will still switch off at key moments, but I think he’ll be bombing forward all season.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

Anderson. I’m not wasting another hope on him.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Silva or Yaya Toure. Either one would strengthen us and greatly weaken City.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

Difficult to answer as we don’t know his plans for Kagawa, but:

De Gea

Rafael Rio Vidic Evra

Valencia Scholes Cleverley Nani

Kagawa

Rooney

4-4-1-1 with Kagawa behind Rooney to hopefully stop him dropping too deep. I would have Carrick for Scholes in a lot of games, especially away from home, to screen the back four, but I don’t think we can be starting Giggs and Scholes together in big games anymore. Maybe Wellbeck for Valencia and a straight 4-3-3 too.

How will we fare in Europe?

No repeat of last season’s disaster. We won’t be favourites to win it, and rightly so, but I’ll be surprised and disappointed if we don’t have a decent run at it. I’d like to think we’ll get as far as the semis. I think there will be a reaction across Europe to Chelsea winning it last season. The likes of Barca, Real, and Bayern might be that little bit more pragmatic, a little less likely to assume talent means results. More emphasis on grinding out results and limiting chances. It might not be a very memorable year in Europe for neutrals.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

There is talk of another signing or two, but I can only go by the current squad. City will obviously be our title rival once again, as they have maintained their squad after some talk of Yaya or Tevez leaving. Chelsea have made two significant additions in Hazard and Oscar, and they will certainly be improved over 6th place. But I think we’ll take the title fight to the last week or two. So much of the league is mediocre dross that we (and City too) almost can’t help but rack up an impressive points total.

I think winning the league will come down to at least splitting the points in our games with City. We can’t afford a 6-point swing again. 89 points was something of a miracle last season. It will be tough to replicate that points total, but I think that’s what it will take to win the league.

Justin is a contributor to the site and runs the goalkeeper focused, “Keepers Union“. You can follow him on twitter.

Psychic identity? Mark

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

That the Glazer family’s attempt to raise cash through the I.P.O. ends in failure and forces their hand to sell the club. This, above all, should be the long-term desire for all who care about the club. On the pitch: for United to return to the style that helped pave such a rich history of success. If we replace last year’s functionality with the fluidity of years gone by, we’ll be fine.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

Well, quite the opposite of all that is outlined above. That the Glazers will continue to line their own pockets, all the while letting the club remain in the vulnerable position it has been stationed at for the last 7 years. Away from the dreariness of finances, there is the fear that City’s last gasp pilfering of the title in May is only the beginning of what will be a troubling and dark period. As stated in the previous answer – we need to retain the flair of old if we’re to keep pace with them. We can only do this one way – by bringing in those who can, along with those already in place, make it happen on a regular basis. The areas in dire need of addressing are well covered by now.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Predictable answer, perhaps, but all eyes will naturally be trained on Kagawa. In the brief pre-season glimpses we’ve seen, an intelligence – a combination of pace and creativity – is clearly stored well within his armoury. All giddiness is stemming from the manner in which he plays, but I’m most intrigued by the possible positive aspects it will bring out in those around him. His style will add a more incisive dimension to a team whose reliance on wing-play can become all too predictable at times. The likes of Rooney, Welbeck and Hernandez will now have an outlet regularly feeding them from in and around the opposition’s box. There’s much to be excited by.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

I have a – some would say tedious – penchant for regularly showing my disdain for our Brazilian plodder. While most of it is mere tomfoolery, I’m quite certain most seasoned observers will greet the sight of him with a semblance of discontent. His staunch supporters ceaselessly proclaim that the only thing hindering his progression to stardom is an iffy injury record. I disagree. It is his awkward style, the endless misplaced passes, the skewed shots and huffing and puffing that have me wanting to climb into my own throat and stay there forever. All in all, he has showed some bright spells, but that’s not near good enough in a half decade of disappointment. He needs to move on – to help both himself and United, who need much more.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Yaya Toure, of that lot in blue. Aggressive, traverses the pitch with ease, defensively astute and a keen attacker, too. Some players are about creating. Others are about destroying and getting it to those who’ll then hurt others. He, unfortunately, has just about everything a team like United – lacking much of that – are so desperately in need of. Sadly, getting him is one fantasy too far.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

De Gea - Rafael Vidic Ferdinand Evra - Valencia Carrick Cleverley Nani - Kagawa - Rooney

It pains me to not include Danny, who will be terrific, but for now Kagawa aiding both the midfield – in obvious need of it – and Rooney up front.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

Last year, I said a United with the midfield they had going into the new campaign would finish second. I expect an improvement this season, but I’m cynical about it being enough come May. If, delivered by a fairy straddling a unicorn, an adequate central midfielder arrives, I think we will have enough. If not, it will be like last year again: close running, touch and go and failure.

How will we fare in Europe?

Better than last year’s catastrophe. Until we meet the one of the Spanish giants. Again it will largely depend on what happens between now and the end of the month. The league title is, as ever, the main one.Europe’s a pleasant distraction, but the looming brilliance of Barca casts a pessimistic cloud over every bit of progression.

Any other predictions

That there will no certainties but this: insanity will prevail, as it does every season.

Mark is a writer for ‘Stretford-end.com‘ and ‘The Huffington Post‘. You can follow him on twitter.

Crystal Ball II: Powell Will Surprise A Few, Pogba Who?

ON THE CUSP OF ANOTHER CAMPAIGN, WE ASKED SOME OF OUR WRITERS, CONTRIBUTORS AND FRIENDS OF THE SITE TO PUT THEIR NECK ON THE LINE AND SHARE SOME PREDICTIONS ABOUT THE SEASON AHEAD:

(Editor’s note: All the below predictions were made before RvP joined.)

Psychic identity? Chris

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

That we bounce back from all the disappointment last season. Although it is scant consolation, 89 points was a gargantuan points total and a similar haul this season would surely leave us as Premier League champions once again.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

That Chelsea build on their Champions League victory last season and City pull some rabbits out of the hat in the transfer window.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Having such a young team, there are many players who could exceed expectations this season. Rafael, Smalling and Danny will be hoping to push on but personally I expect David De Gea to show us exactly why he’s the second most expensive keeper in history, following on from such a superb second half to last season.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

I am very much hoping that Nemanja Vidic hasn’t been too badly affected by his knee injury last season but, as long as he recovered fully, I think Ryan Giggs will struggle the most this season. There was a notable dip in his performances last season and I think it’s clear that the anti-ageing cream won’t last forever.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Addressing the obvious black hole in our squad, I would sign a central midfielder. The standout candidates would have to be Yaya, Ramires, Modric, Fellaini, Cabaye and Dembele. However, the first three are all entirely unrealistic and I’d be happy with any of the latter three.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

De Gea

Rafael, Rio, Vidic/ Evans, Evra

Carrick, Cleverley

Valencia, Kagawa*, Nani

Rooney

*It’s weird knowing that one of those players won’t automatically be replaced by Sir Alex in a big game for Ji Sung Park, hurrah!

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

City have to quite rightly go in as favourites but if we do spend some of that Chevrolet money, we’ll push them very hard. I think Kagawa could make a big difference this season and I just hope he has an injury free campaign as he adjusts to the extra physicality of the Premier League. In the background, Chelsea should be a lot closer this time round with all that extra fire power they’ve got in Hazard and Oscar- exceptional talents!

How will we fare in Europe?

Barcelona and Madrid remain miles ahead of the rest. Beyond that, it’s pretty open and, given our experience, I would fancy our chances against most teams if we have a reasonably fit squad and don’t take the group stages for granted once again.

Any other predictions?

At the top: Cech to continue his decline before being replaced by Courtois next season, Newcastle to fail to reproduce their 5^th placed finish and Santi Cazorla to show us all what a classy player he is. Dare I say Robin Van Persie to win the Golden Boot with a club as of yet unconfirmed?

At the bottom: Stoke to struggle even without the distraction of the Europa League, Swansea to lose a lot of momentum and Steve Clarke to win the Premier League sack race.

Chris is the host of our podcast and administrator of our site. You can follow him on twitter here.

Psychic identity? Rob

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

Personally I just hope we get some real excitement. I don’t think United were as bad as some fans made out last year, but the CL failure, and the end of season collapse fuelled that negative opinion. However, nothing was particularly exciting excluding the Arsenal destruction at home. If we can utilise Kagawa, get Powell up to PL standard quickly, and Welbeck scores a few more to add to his great performances, I think we may see a goal fest. A trophy would be nice as well!

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

That we will take a back step from last year. The Kagawa purchase indicates a change in formation. It could go horribly wrong. But I think it’s what we need to do. We need to try and better last seasons excellent points total, because City will probably match their own total last year. The other fear is injuries. If we hadn’t lost a whole team of players last year we surely would’ve walked the title.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

I’ve got a great feeling for Kagawa. He was such a star in German football. I think he’s a truly special talent. The sort of flair player we have missed for many years.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

Hmm, I don’t like to think in these terms in general. I guess I have no faith in Anderson. How he’s still at MUFC I’m not sure. How many last chances does he want? He’s had poor luck, but has also played poorly.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Yaya Toure. I think he’s the best at what he does in the world. When City signed him I thought he was hugely overrated. But the bloke is a bit of a monster.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

DdG

Smalling Rio, Vida, Evra

Jones, Carrick

Valencia, Kagawa, Rooney

Welbeck

Now that’s slightly leftfield I know: No Rafa or Scholes, Rooney instead of Young …but I think we need to keep playing Welbeck somehow. We need to still include Rooney. We need to utilise Kagawa. We need a formation freshen up. And we need two MFs that sit and start to form a long term partnership together.

I still have faith with Jones in midfield. It’s total fan tosh that he can’t pass a ball. Learning next to Carrick would be great, even if we see the odd mistake this year (long term gain and worth) ..it’s a toss up between Smalling and Rafa for me. You’d rotate depending on form and opposition.Valencia’s first choice but again Nani and Young would be rotated in and out. It’s a squad game! We have excellent alternatives in every position except left back.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

Top 3. It would be a leap of faith to proclaim anything else, and I can only use logic when addressing this subject. City are favourites, and Chelsea are sorting their squad out. I think we have a good chance of winning it, but I’m not gonna say we will defo come first.

How will we fare in Europe?

I expect quite well! If Fergie hadn’t over rotated in the group stages, I think we would’ve reached the last eight with ease. And as Chelsea proved, once you’re in that position anything can happen. I always think last eight is our minimum requirement each season for this competition.

Any other predictions

I think we will see an impressive and resurgent Chelsea. If they can perform, then it’ll put the cat amongst the pigeons. For United, I think we may see great things from Nick Powell. The lad has got a bit of swagger, and I think he may have an ‘Oxlade Chamberlain’…18 year olds have performed before: Fabregas was younger in the Arsenal team. I think Powell will surprise a few and we will all be saying: ‘Pogba who?’

Rob is the editor of ‘The Faithful MUFC‘. You can follow him and The Faithful on twitter.

Psychic identity? Tom

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

My biggest hope for the coming season is that the squad remains as injury free as possible. The last few seasons have been horrific injury wise yet we have still managed to compete on all fronts (apart from Europe last season) fairly well. A clean bill of health throughout the majority of the season would be a breath of fresh air.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

That Anderson injures himself again. No, I’m not being serious. The biggest fear next season is that the team does not perform in the league. I can live with not performing in Europe but as SAF has said on many occasions, the league is the most important. Losing it on the last day, in the last minute, last season was heart breaking. Let us hope that it doesn’t happen again and that we get our title back.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

I think next year will be Rooney’s year. He got the goals but never really performed as well as he could have. With Kagawa in the team and Ferguson hopefully switching to a different tactic for the big games, we could see a completely different Rooney. Played up top with a creative player behind him, Rooney can be utterly devastating. I really hope Sir Alex Ferguson sees this as it could be the difference between winning or losing the title.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

It breaks my heart to say this but I’m extremely worried about our great Welshman. Giggs has been on the decline for some time and the prospect of another season where SAF plays him ahead of a more adequate player just because of his status at the club is not a pleasant one. Giggsy has been an amazing servant to the club and will always go down in Manchester United history as a legend but I think he is close to retirement. Maybe he will realise this throughout the season, like Gary Neville did a few years back.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

I’ve said this many times but Yaya Touré is the player that everyone is crying out for to fill in that midfield gap. Strong, great at defending and devastating when going forward, he truly is a great box to box midfielder. Exactly what Manchester United need.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

[4-2-3-1]

De Gea

Rafael, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra

Carrick, Anderson

Valencia, Kagawa, Nani

Rooney

How do you think we will fare in Europe this year?

I think SAF learnt his lesson last year, whatever that lesson was. I can see us getting out of the group rather comfortably and reaching the quarters. I still do not think that our squad is up there with the 2009 one but it is on the up compared the last few seasons. And who knows, with Bébé on form, anything can happen!

Any other predictions?

I’d like to think that we have a team capable of winning the title back and winning an unprecedented 20^th title. Regarding the others in the top 5, I think that Manchester City will come 2^nd, Chelsea 3^rd, Arsenal 4^th and Tottenham 5^th. Liverpool are in a transition period and will probably qualify for the Europa League but nothing more.

I have a feeling that West Ham might do quite well, especially with Big Sam at the helm. I fancy QPR, Southampton and Reading to get relegated next season.

Tom is a contributor to the site and runs the Cantona inspired “Sardine Trawler” site. You can follow him on Twitter.

Crystal Ball Volume I – Welbeck Can Be Our David Villa.

ON THE CUSP OF ANOTHER CAMPAIGN, WE ASKED SOME OF OUR WRITERS, CONTRIBUTORS AND FRIENDS OF THE SITE TO PUT THEIR NECK ON THE LINE AND SHARE SOME PREDICTIONS ABOUT THE SEASON AHEAD:

(Editor’s note: All the below predictions were made before RvP joined.)

Psychic identity? James

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

I hope that United play a brand of fast, attacking football that brings the fun back into watching the club play. We have the players capable of this and it would be great to have a situation where we let other teams worry about us rather than try to hide our weaknesses.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

My biggest fear is that Fergie does not learn his lesson from last season. We cannot afford to rotate for the sake of it especially in Europe and also that he plays everyone in their favoured positions. I dread the day that he tries to turn Kagawa into a left winger.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

The obvious answer is Kagawa but I will go for Rafael. I would love to see him establish himself at right back in the coming season. If he just adds concentration to his array of talents then he can be the best
right back in the league. He is very young still and mistakes will always come with immaturity but Fergie clearly likes him and he has been very impressive for Brazil at the Olympics.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

I am afraid that I will have to pick Anderson. I would love him to stay fit and establish himself but it is hard to forsee this happening. When he is fit, I find he tries to hard to pick out the Hollywood pass when keeping it simple would suffice. If he stays thenI feel he is very much in the last chance saloon. Personally I think he would benefit from playing in a more advanced role as he did for Gremio but with Kagawa and Rooney favouring that role, it seems unlikely.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Yaya Touré. Quite simply, the best midfielder and the most influential in the league. If it was to be someone obtainable then probably Fellaini from Everton.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

DDG, Rafael, Rio, Vidic, Evra, Valencia, Carrick, Cleverley, Nani, Kagawa, Rooney in a 4231 formation with the front
four very flexible and with licence to interchange.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

I will say first but I am not massively confident this will happen. Chelsea look like they will challenge this year and City will go close but it remains to be seen if they still have the hunger after their triumph last season. Spurs will finish 4th with Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle after that.

How will we fare in Europe?

It sounds from what he has says that Sir Alex will not risk qualification this season by changing the team so I would expect to go as far as the semi finals. The likes of Madrid and Barcelona are just too strong in my opinion but we could go close if they are knocked out by someone else.

Any other predictions

Norwich and Swansea will find it much harder this season. Villa will have a better year under Lambert. I really
hope we try to win the FA Cup this year as it has been too long. Giggs to announce his retirement this season and Scholes will bow out at the same time. I could also see Fergie going if we win another title.

James is the Chief Editor of our site. You can follow him on twitter here.

Psychic identity? Paul

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

Kagawa, Cleverley, Welbeck and Rooney exchanging passes around the edge of the box. Community shield second half last season all over again.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

Apart from City romping the league, my biggest fear for United’s performance is that we’ll see inconsistent performances from the midfield – Scholes cannot possibly be the influence he was in the second half of last season – he’d already started to slightly drop off by the end of half a season, not sure what he’ll be like this, so our deeper lying midfield becomes Michael Carrick and someone who can’t really play there, which leads to horribly disjointed performances. Off the pitch, the finances remain horrible and the fear that nothing will be done about it lingers. Oh! And Danny Welbeck’s development slowing down due to rotation / being played out of position etc.

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

If he can stay injury free, I’m excited for the boy T-Clevs! More probably, I think Wayne could have a big season, after scoring a lot of goals but putting in a lot of underwhelming performances last season.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

Really sad to say it, but Phil Jones – he needs to be found a position and played in it. I’ve heard United fans who know a fair bit about the game say “He’s no centre back”, “he’s no right back” and “he’s no central midfielder”. It’s a bit of a worry, given how much potential he has. “Expect” is a bit strong, but “suspect” or “fear” might be more accurate.

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Sigh. Yaya. I don’t want to talk about it.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

No idea! De Gea, Raf, Rio, Vidic, Evra, Tony V, Carrick, Scholes, Kagawa, Clev, Nani, Rooney 4-3-3? No idea really. I want to play Rooney, Welbeck, Chich, Nani, Tony, Kagawa and Cleverly and Berbatov, but the maths doesn’t quite add up.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

TOP OF THE LEAGUE. Or second. But one or the other.

How will we fare in Europe?

Comically poorly? No, I think it’ll be an improvement on last season. I really feel like I need to see what Fergie does with the squad and if we bring in anyone else before making a definitive prediction, but we could fluke the final, why not?

Any other predictions

Beautifully Red will continue to make the best gifs that have ever existed, the Rant Cast will play out with bad Europop at least once this season, Fergie will continue to amaze and infuriate, Mark Lawrenson will realise he actually doesn’t like football and find true happiness in another career.

Paul is the cohost of the United Rant Podcast “The Rant Cast“. You can follow him on twitter here.

Psychic identity? Birchy

What is your biggest hope for the coming season?

To play football the way United play football. Beautiful and effective.

To have a relatively injury free season. Having Vidic fit for the season is key for success. Getting full seasons out of the likes of Smalling, Jones, Cleverley & Welbeck is key to our future.

What is your biggest fear for the coming season?

Still being heavily reliant on Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs. Both are legends and still capable of magic but over 30-40 games?

Which one player do you most expect to shine in the season ahead?

Rafael. The only natural RB in the squad and is improving every season. Would love to see him stay fit and get a prolonged spell in the team.

Which one player do you most expect to disappoint in the season ahead?

I refuse to be so negative (until at least Christmas)

If you could sign one player from a Premier League rival who would it be?

Alex Song. There are better players out there but looking at our squad and what we need he fits the bill nicely. Sandro from Spurs another I like.

Yaya Toure would be a nice double-edged sword as it would weaken City as well as strengthen United.

Who would be in your first choice XI for a key home game and how would they line up?

De Gea

Rafael Vidic Evans Evra

Carrick Cleverley

Nani Kagawa Welbeck

Rooney

I really struggle to nail down a best 11 (to point of not trying) so I’ve gone for one that looks exciting and young. Hard and probably ridiculous to leave out Valencia but in this 4231 formation I think Nani would thrive, and I love Danny Welbeck, who I think could do a great job as a wide attacker a la Henry/Barca David Villa. This 11 could easily switch to a 442 (Kagawa LW, Welbeck up top) in-game if required too.

Where will we finish in the Premier League?

Champions….

…. (oh look a Rainbow, and a Unicorn)

How will we fare in Europe?

Quarter finals. More lessons to be learnt by our promising younger players.

Any other predictions

Phil Jones will still have no idea what his best position is.

Javier Hernandez will score a vital last-minute winner.

Valencia will make more appearances than Nani and Welbeck making my 11 look ridiculously silly.

Giggs, Scholes and SAF will all retire in May.

Birchy is the owner of the amazing “Beautifully Red“. You can follow him on twitter here.

Manchester United Pre-season Preview: Money, Money, Fans?

In early 2008 the Chief Executive of the Premier League, Richard Scudamore, put forward the most controversial proposal to alter the English game in living memory.

Scudamore suggested, with the support of a few chairmen of Premiership clubs, that there should be an extra ‘39^th game’ added to the Premiership season. This additional game would be staged in a neutral venue outside of England and the argument was centred on distributing the Premiership to its global fan base.

 

However, the overwhelming majority of football observers stared right through this thinly veiled attempt at diverting attention from the disease that has engulfed and altered the beautiful game beyond recognition: money, money, money.

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