Manchester United Thrashed 4-0 by Crystal Palace, European Hopes Fading

Manchester United Thrashed 4-0 by Crystal Palace, European Hopes Fading

Manchester United’s hopes of European football next season suffered a major blow as they were thrashed 4-0 by Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Monday. The defeat leaves United in eighth place in the Premier League table with just 54 points from 35 games, two points behind Newcastle United in sixth.

A makeshift United defense, which included Casemiro at center-back, was easily exploited by Palace on several occasions. Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell were also on the scoresheet for the impressive win, while Michael Olise scored a brace.

United had several injury absentees and were without Bruno Fernandes, but the ease with which they were beaten will be a huge concern for everyone at the club.

“A big disappointment. We just had an off-day and we weren’t in it,” midfielder Christian Eriksen told BBC. “It is what it is. We can’t really change the injury things. We have to do what we can on the pitch to change it.”

“Today it didn’t matter who we played. Everyone could have done better. We tried to do what we could but we were not good enough. We’ll take the blame as players.”

It is the first time in the Premier League era that United have lost 13 games in a season, and the scoreline could have been worse.

The home side took the lead inside 12 minutes as Olise collected a throw and evaded a limp challenge from Casemiro. With no United player attempting to close him down, he was able to unleash a low shot from just inside the box.

It was 2-0 five minutes before the break as Mateta breezed past United defender Jonny Evans and thrashed the ball into the net for a ninth goal in 11 games since the arrival of Glasner in February.

The striker had scored 11 goals in his previous 80 games for Palace before that.

United’s makeshift defense was struggling to contain the movement of their hosts, and when Diogo Dalot failed to deal with a ball to the back post, Mitchell had a tap-in.

Olise’s second goal added more salt to the wound, and it could have been worse for the visitors as Odsonne Edouard saw his shot come back off the woodwork late on.

“I think we could have got a few more. That shows the potential we have to play against any team in the league,” Palace defender Chris Richards said.

Premier League Moves Closer to Implementing Spending Cap

Premier League Moves Closer to Implementing Spending Cap

The English Premier League is poised to implement a spending cap, a move that has been met with mixed reactions from clubs. At a recent shareholders’ meeting, top-flight teams voted to proceed with a legal and economic analysis of the “anchoring” principle.

The anchoring principle would limit spending by all clubs to a multiple of the combined prize money and TV rights revenue earned by the last-placed team in the league. This would effectively reduce the spending power of clubs with the largest revenues and wealthiest owners, potentially increasing the competitiveness of the league.

Clubs may have the opportunity to vote on the spending cap at the league’s annual general meeting in June, depending on the progress made in finalizing a proposal. However, it has been reported that Manchester United and Manchester City are among the clubs opposed to the measure.

The anchoring principle, if approved, would become part of new financial regulations set to replace the existing profitability and sustainability rules from the 2025-26 season. The current rules, which allow clubs to lose a maximum of £105 million ($133 million) over a three-year period or face sanctions, have been breached by Everton and Nottingham Forest this season, resulting in points deductions.

The introduction of a spending cap is seen as a way to address concerns about the growing financial disparity between clubs in the Premier League. Critics argue that the current system allows clubs with unlimited resources to dominate the league, making it difficult for smaller clubs to compete.

Proponents of the spending cap believe it will level the playing field and create a more competitive league. They argue that it will prevent clubs from overspending and accumulating unsustainable levels of debt.

However, opponents of the cap argue that it will stifle competition and reduce the appeal of the Premier League. They contend that it will prevent clubs from investing in their squads and could lead to a decline in the quality of football.

The debate over the spending cap is likely to continue in the coming months as the Premier League works to finalize its proposal. The outcome of the vote at the annual general meeting will determine whether the league takes a significant step towards implementing a spending cap.

Manchester United Survive Coventry Collapse to Reach FA Cup Final

Manchester United Survive Coventry Collapse to Reach FA Cup Final

Manchester United’s rollercoaster season took another dramatic turn as they overcame a stunning collapse to defeat Coventry City 4-2 on penalties in an FA Cup semi-final classic.

Erik ten Hag’s side cruised to a 3-0 lead at Wembley Stadium, with goals from Scott McTominay, Harry Maguire, and Bruno Fernandes. However, Coventry staged a remarkable comeback, with Ellis Simms, Callum O’Hare, and Haji Wright scoring to level the match at 3-3 in the 95th minute.

The second half saw a complete reversal of fortunes. Coventry, who had struggled to create chances in the first half, suddenly found their rhythm. Simms pulled one back in the 71st minute, and O’Hare equalized in the 79th minute.

As extra time approached, Coventry’s momentum continued to grow. Victor Torp forced a sharp save from United goalkeeper Andre Onana, and Wright converted a penalty in the dying seconds to send the match into extra time.

In extra time, both teams had chances to win it. Fernandes rattled the crossbar, while Simms hit the underside of the crossbar. Coventry thought they had won it in the final seconds, but VAR ruled out Torp’s goal for offside.

The penalty shootout proved to be a tense affair. Casemiro’s weak penalty was saved by Coventry goalkeeper Bradley Collins, but O’Hare and Ben Sheaf missed their spot-kicks. Rasmus Hojlund stepped up to take the decisive penalty and sent United through to the final.

Manchester City await United in the final, after they defeated Chelsea 1-0 in the other semi-final. It will be a repeat of last year’s final, which City won 1-0.

Mark Robins Plots FA Cup Upset as Coventry Face Manchester United

Mark Robins Plots FA Cup Upset as Coventry Face Manchester United

Mark Robins, the former Manchester United striker who played a pivotal role in the club’s resurgence under Alex Ferguson, is now plotting to inflict misery on his old team as Coventry City manager in the FA Cup semi-final.

Robins’ goal against Nottingham Forest in the third round of the 1990 FA Cup proved to be a turning point in United’s history. It helped save Ferguson’s job and sparked a cascade of trophies under his leadership. Robins also scored the winner in the semi-final against Oldham, paving the way for United’s first FA Cup triumph under Ferguson.

Despite United’s recent struggles, they remain firm favorites at Wembley against Coventry. However, Robins believes the pressure is on Erik ten Hag’s side, who have endured a dismal second season in charge.

“People are talking in a derisory way about Manchester United,” Robins said. “But they’re still the biggest club in the world, with talented players and top international players.”

Coventry, meanwhile, have stuttered in recent weeks, losing three of their past four games. But Robins is confident his team can cause an upset.

“We know they are clearly favorites to win this game,” Robins said. “But we will get opportunities against a United team who concede a lot of chances.”

Coventry are bidding to become the first second-tier club to reach the FA Cup final since Cardiff in 2008. Robins has done a remarkable job since returning for a second stint in 2017, taking the club from the fourth tier to the brink of the Premier League last season.

Ten Hag is aware of the threat posed by Coventry.

“We know the manager, a former United player, striker, his long period there, he’s doing a fantastic job there,” Ten Hag said. “So, we know a lot about them.”

“Of course they are dangerous, they are in the semi-final. It’s logical. Last season, they were that far away (a small margin) from being promoted to the Premier League. So they do a fantastic job over there.”

Manchester United Held to Draw by Resurgent Bournemouth

Manchester United Held to Draw by Resurgent Bournemouth

Manchester United’s struggles continued as they were held to a 2-2 draw by a spirited Bournemouth side at Old Trafford. Despite fielding a strong lineup, United looked sluggish and disjointed from the outset, allowing Bournemouth to take the initiative.

Bournemouth’s attacking intent was evident from the opening whistle, and their pressure paid off in the 16th minute when Will Kambwala’s slip allowed Dominic Solanke to fire home from close range. United’s defense looked shaky throughout the first half, with Bournemouth creating several more chances.

However, against the run of play, Bruno Fernandes equalized for United in the 31st minute. Garnacho’s cross deflected off a defender and fell to Fernandes, who slotted it into the net. Bournemouth responded quickly, with Dango Ouattara and Justin Kluivert scoring in quick succession to restore their lead.

United’s profligacy in front of goal continued in the second half, with Fernandes hitting the crossbar from a promising position. Bournemouth also had their chances, but they were unable to capitalize on their dominance.

A controversial penalty awarded to United in the 62nd minute, after the ball appeared to hit Adam Smith’s arm, allowed Fernandes to level the score once again. Bournemouth continued to press for a winner, but their efforts were thwarted by a combination of poor finishing and resolute defending from United.

In the dying minutes of extra time, Bournemouth were awarded a penalty, but VAR intervened to overturn the decision, ruling that the foul occurred just outside the penalty area. The stadium erupted in protest, but the decision stood, ensuring a share of the spoils for both teams.

Sancho's Solo Stunner Secures Dortmund Victory

Sancho’s Solo Stunner Secures Dortmund Victory

Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho has been hailed by both his coach and sporting director after his stunning goal secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Werder Bremen on Saturday. The win keeps Dortmund in fourth place in the Bundesliga, on track for Champions League qualification next season.

Sancho’s goal, his first since returning to Dortmund on loan from Manchester United in January, was a trademark solo effort that showcased his exceptional dribbling skills and clinical finishing. The England winger received the ball on the left flank, danced past several Bremen defenders, and fired a low shot into the bottom corner.

“Doing something like that, you can of course see what a great footballer he is,” said Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl. “You can see how he can make the difference, especially in one-on-one situations.”

Sancho’s goal put Dortmund 2-0 up, but the visitors were forced to hold on for a narrow victory after Marcel Sabitzer was sent off with a straight red card shortly after. It was Sancho’s first goal in eight matches since returning to the side and his first in Dortmund colors in 1,031 days, dating back to May 2021.

Kehl, who played a key role in bringing Sancho back to the club, said the 23-year-old was “rewarded” for his hard work. “Everyone is happy for Jadon because they saw how hard he was working and how willing he was to help the team. Goals help. He’s had one or two assists before, but this goal will help him and give him a boost.”

Dortmund coach Edin Terzic, who was in charge when the Black and Yellows won the German Cup in 2021 thanks to two goals from Sancho, praised the winger’s performance. “It’s an example of what he’s capable of and hopefully he can continue like this. He’s not limiting himself to scoring a goal — it was his entire performance. We know he’s not 100 percent, there’s no way he can be (after a long layoff). But we’ll get him there.”

Kehl compared Sancho’s return to a player returning from injury and said Dortmund would need the winger in Wednesday’s Champions League last 16 second leg at home to PSV Eindhoven. “You should not forget that he didn’t play for a long time. It’s like when a player has a cruciate ligament injury and is out for a long time. We need him and we will again on Wednesday and for the coming weeks.”

Dortmund drew 1-1 in the first leg in the Netherlands and need a win to ensure progression to the quarter finals.

Manchester United Revive Champions League Hopes with 2-0 Win over Everton

Manchester United Revive Champions League Hopes with 2-0 Win over Everton

Manchester United’s Champions League aspirations received a much-needed boost as they secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Everton at Old Trafford on Saturday. The win snapped a two-game losing streak in the Premier League and moved United within three points of fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur.

Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 12th minute after Alejandro Garnacho was brought down by James Tarkowski. Fernandes then handed over penalty duties to Marcus Rashford, who doubled the lead in the 36th minute after Garnacho was fouled by Ben Godfrey.

United dominated the first half, with Garnacho causing constant problems for the Everton defense. The Argentine winger won both penalties and was a constant threat with his pace and skill. Everton improved in the second half but failed to create any clear-cut chances, with most of their shots coming from long range.

The victory was a welcome relief for United manager Erik ten Hag, who had seen his team lose to Fulham and Manchester City in their previous two league matches. The win keeps United in contention for a top-four finish and a place in next season’s Champions League.

Everton, meanwhile, remain five points clear of the relegation zone but will be concerned by their lack of attacking threat. Manager Sean Dyche will need to find a way to get more goals from his team if they are to avoid a relegation battle.

Manchester United Plans 'World Class' Stadium with Task Force

Manchester United Plans ‘World Class’ Stadium with Task Force

Manchester United’s new co-owner, Jim Ratcliffe, is determined to transform the club’s iconic Old Trafford stadium into a “world class” facility. Ratcliffe, who acquired a 27.7% stake in United last month, has assembled a task force to explore the feasibility of building a new stadium or redeveloping the existing one.

The task force includes renowned figures such as World Athletics president Sebastian Coe, former United player Gary Neville, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, and Trafford Council chief executive Sara Todd. Coe, who played a pivotal role in organizing the 2012 London Olympics, believes that a new stadium could become a catalyst for social and economic development in the region.

Old Trafford, which opened in 1910, is the largest club stadium in England with a capacity of over 74,000. However, it has long been in need of modernization. The task force will assess the viability of building a new stadium of “national significance” that could also host international soccer matches and finals.

Ratcliffe’s investment includes a £300 million cash injection for improvements to Old Trafford. However, a new stadium could require additional public funding. United intends to remain in the area, with the new stadium potentially being built within the grounds of the existing site.

Ratcliffe emphasizes the importance of regenerating the surrounding area. “This can be a major regeneration project for an area of Greater Manchester which has played such a key role in British industrial history, but which today requires new investment to thrive again,” he said.

Neville, who was part of United’s treble-winning team in 1999, has been a vocal critic of the Glazer family’s ownership. His inclusion on the task force ensures representation from the club’s past glories.

“Old Trafford has evolved throughout its history and it’s clear we are at a point where it has to change again to ensure that Manchester United has a world class stadium befitting the world’s greatest club,” Neville said. “While I want the best for Manchester United, I also want the same for the surrounding community.”

Ronaldo's United Return Ends in Disappointment

Ronaldo’s United Return Ends in Disappointment

Cristiano Ronaldo’s tumultuous second stint at Manchester United ended abruptly in November 2022, following a controversial interview where he criticized the club’s hierarchy and manager Erik ten Hag. The decision to terminate his contract marked a bitter end to a transfer that had initially sparked excitement among United fans.

United had acquired Ronaldo from Juventus in the summer of 2021 for a fee of 15 million Euros, plus potential add-ons. The Portuguese superstar’s arrival was seen as a major coup for the club, given his legendary status and prolific goalscoring record. However, the move proved to be a disappointment, with Ronaldo struggling to adapt to ten Hag’s high-pressing style of play.

As the season progressed, Ronaldo’s playing time diminished, leading to growing frustration. The situation reached a boiling point when he gave an unauthorized interview to British broadcaster Piers Morgan, in which he expressed his dissatisfaction with the club’s management and coaching staff.

In the interview, Ronaldo claimed that he felt “betrayed” by United and that he had no respect for ten Hag. The club responded by suspending Ronaldo and eventually terminating his contract by mutual consent.

Former United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who had initially signed Ronaldo, has since admitted that the transfer was a mistake. “With the ball, with him in the team, it was no problem,” Solskjaer said. “But without him [pressing], we had to change a little bit from the different roles we’d gotten used to.”

Solskjaer also acknowledged that Ronaldo’s age and fitness levels played a role in his reduced playing time. “Cristiano – when you know him and speak to him, he wanted to play three out of four games, he realized he’s getting older as well,” Solskjaer said. “But when you leave him out once, he’s not happy!”

Ten Hag’s position as United manager is now under scrutiny following a string of poor results, including a humiliating 1-3 defeat to Manchester City in their latest Premier League fixture. United currently sit sixth in the standings, with their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League fading.

Marcus Rashford Stuns Manchester City with Ronaldo-esque Goal in Manchester Derby

Marcus Rashford Stuns Manchester City with Ronaldo-esque Goal in Manchester Derby

In the highly anticipated Manchester derby, Marcus Rashford emerged as the hero for Manchester United, scoring a stunning goal against Premier League champions Manchester City. With Pep Guardiola expecting a strong performance from his team, Rashford delivered, silencing the Etihad Stadium crowd with his brilliance.

Rashford’s goal came in the eighth minute of the match, assisted by Bruno Fernandes. The England international unleashed a powerful long-range shot that flew into the top corner, reminiscent of Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic strikes. The goal gave United an early lead and sent shockwaves through the City defense.

Rashford’s strike was not only a moment of individual brilliance but also a testament to his growing stature as a world-class forward. With 30 career goals against the “big six” rivals in the Premier League, Rashford has joined the ranks of Manchester United legends Wayne Rooney and Eric Cantona.

The goal also marked a significant milestone for Rashford, as he became the third player in United’s history to score the most goals in the Manchester derby. Rooney holds the record with eight goals, while Cantona has seven.

Under the guidance of Erik ten Hag, Manchester United are hoping to end their losing streak against their bitter rivals at the Etihad. However, City have been dominant in recent derby clashes, scoring 10 goals in their last two home matches against United.

Despite the challenge, Rashford’s goal has given United fans hope that they can overcome their rivals and secure a crucial victory. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to prove their superiority in the Premier League.

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