May 04
Is it really time up for Nani at Old Trafford?
It doesn’t look good does it? Brought off at half-time whilst trailing at home to Tottenham which rather ironically then helps spark that tremendous comeback. I can understand why he wouldn’t be desperate to stay behind and encourage his teammates but it was hardly the wisest of choices to make and it’s difficult to defend a quite childish, sulky and rather petty reaction to yet another below-par individual performance.
It didn’t get much better for the Portuguese winger in midweek either. A quick glance at Sir Alex’s team sheet for the Champions League encounter with Arsenal and the four letters ‘Nani’ were absolutely nowhere to be seen, not even on the substitutes bench.
I appreciate that I have to be careful with what I say from here on in as I am aware of the seismic split in opinions on the Cape Verde-born man of inconsistency and what he brings to our club but I’ll throw in my ten pennies worth and happily accept whatever flack is bound to be coming my way!
For a start let’s deal with this season and what exactly has gone wrong for Nani in United red. Well in the handful of Premier League appearances he’s made (just five as a starter would you believe) he’s hardly set the world alight but you can’t ignore the fact that he’s not even been afforded a full-ninety minutes.
Ji Sung Park’s notably impressive form (despite having tailed off somewhat in recent weeks) this season clearly hasn’t helped Nani’s cause either. You can bet your bottom dollar that if our tricky left winger were playing for anyone else in the Premier League he would have started far more than six league games and would’ve surely had more of a visible impact.
This may surprise you somewhat but I can actually reveal to you quite a different statistical story, especially if you purely take into account domestic league goals and assists. Park, for all his work rate, endeavour and tenacity, has scored one league goal and picked up three assists in the 21 Premier League fixtures he has been involved in. Nani on the other hand has played in only 11 Premier League matches (most of which were as substitute with miniscule amounts of time left) yet still has a goal and two assists to his name. Make of that what you will.
However well he does to cover it up, I’m sure Sir Alex will have surely expected slightly more from a player he shelled out around £14 million for in the summer of 2007. It can’t be denied that our manager has stood firmly by Nani’s side from the moment he stepped into Manchester, offering as much support as humanely possible. We saw it first of all with the Lucas Neill headbutt and since then Fergie has seemingly backed down in banning the 22-year-old winger’s somersault celebration too. Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha would certainly be wise not to take his current mentor for a ride as his patience is probably wearing pretty thin right now, however well he conceals it.
Incase you were wondering, Nani himself had this to say having been brought off at half-time against Spurs: ‘I have no problem with the manager but I am still in my apprenticeship here.’And it’s fair to say that at 22-years-old he is still learning his trade at a club where expectations are elevated like no other. Yet for how long can you keep blaming Nani’s immaturity and inept performances on age and how long will you give the apprentice to finally fulfil his massive potential?
Unfortunately for Nani, when you play for Manchester United, time is not something you can heavily rely on. With the acquisition of Zoran Tosic in January and rumours consistently linking Antonio Valencia with a move to the club, it’s really now or never if Nani is to grab his chance.
With all this relative negativity it’s about time I started talking about the strengths that Nani possesses and why he could still prove something of a valuable asset to us in the future.
Well we all witnessed exactly what he was capable of during his first season at Old Trafford last year and it was arguably one of the better debut season’s of any foreign import that has arrived at the club - certainly in recent times anyway. In 24 starts he scored four goals, created eleven and generally seemed much more confident in his own ability. He was no Stranger in Moscow either, coming on to play a part in extra time and then scoring in the shoot-out too.
Despite Nani’s lack of involvement in the league this season lest we forget that he has played a significantly important part in other competitions for us. Not only has he appeared in seven Champions League matches enroute to the semi-final but he was a major contributor to our Carling Cup success with three goals in six appearances. Add the couple of strikes he managed during our FA Cup campaign and Nani’s season starts to look less disappointing, even if ever so slightly.
Nani is now and always will invariably be stuck in the towering shadow of Ronaldo due to his style, potential and even nationality. It’s ultimately unfair as his Portuguese compatriot performed miracles last season and probably won’t ever achieve such lofty heights again during his career. Poor old Nani has come under stark criticism for not producing similar results but there is no other player in world football quite like Cristiano (bar Lionel Messi perhaps). To be fair you could argue that Ronaldo was some way behind Nani in terms of development during his second season at the club and look how our patience paid dividends then!
I’m going to stop rambling on now and place my cards firmly on the table by predicting that Nani will not only get a start in the lunch time game against Middlesbrough on Saturday but will also make an impression in the match too. Be it a goal, an assist or just a full-ninety minutes, Nani needs game time and when he has it, I’m sure he will produce.
Whatever your stance may be on Nani, there’s no question he’s been used in fits and spurts throughout this season and has clearly been unable to build up any real momentum as a consequence. I am by no means Nani’s biggest fan, far from it infact but hopefully Saturday will go some way to proving that the former Sporting Lisbon man does still have a future at Old Trafford. I sincerely hope he does anyway.
Ed: This was written prior to the Middlesbrough game.
Related items from Red Rants:
- Ronaldo: I like to know what’s happening at Old Trafford
- Manchester United players need to do better
- Ngog’s dive — aka a lesson in refereeing conspiracy theories
- Featured Lookalike: Nani and…?
- Want to watch United beat City at Old Trafford?
Tags: Opinions/Columns
May 4th, 2009 at 8:29
Well it clearly didn’t happen for him against Middlesbrough either then which makes me look a bit silly! I thought it would have been the perfect chance for Sir Alex to give him a go and let him prove himself.
Also with Park scoring sort of ruins what I was saying about statistics too but I’m sure you can all appreciate what I was getting at.
May 4th, 2009 at 9:25
Well, he played only 10mins in the Boro game Stephen, so wrong prediction there!
Which goes to really show that Fergie’s faith in him has dwindled down to almost nothing. Like I said in a previous post, I was kinda satisfied with Nani’s 10 minute performance cos he did nothing dumb or stupid and didn’t give away the ball cheaply, something we’ve not been used to. Seriously, has our expectations of a 17m-buy being lowered to such an extent where we’re happy to just see him not make a mistake?
May 4th, 2009 at 9:28
@Stephen Darwin: Okay missed your first comment bro
But good post, your point remains clear 
May 4th, 2009 at 9:41
I am clearly on one side of the seismic split in opinions and I am sure my opinion will be vehemently opposed by at least some if not most of you…
It pains me to say, but I think Nani’s time is up and he should be sold, both for his own good and for that of the team. He is incredibly talented (shooting, set pieces, dribbling, crossing etc.) and he brings that something special that can decide a game on its own. I was extremely excited by him in his first games. However, he is also probably the most frustrating player ever to watch, because he wastes so much of that talent by giving the ball away needlessly, being in the wrong place, or doing the wrong thing. Some of it seems to be due to lack of concentration, and some may be due to not getting a consistent run in the team. But basically it seems to be a lack of a “football brain”. He seems unaware of where teammates and opponents are on the pitch and he more often than not chooses the wrong option when he has the ball.
Nani is 22 and has been with us for two seasons. Players that age still develop of course, but his weaknesses are mainly in his head and I just don’t think you can develop those basic mental capabilities if you haven’t already at that age. The teams play is based on keeping possession and I simply don’t think we can afford to have someone who gives the ball away and doesn’t seem to understand the way the team is playing. Scoring goals and providing assists does not make up for that in my book (and this is probably where many of you will disagree). In addition, he never looks like a player who is fighting for his place in the team. Where is the fighting spirit and desire? He will probably be a very good player for some team, but he will never be good enough for United. I hope I am wrong of course.
Btw., this was my first post ever. I wont be posting a lot, but had to get this off my chest. I have been following the blog for almost two years though and love it.
May 4th, 2009 at 11:01
I think we’ll keep him next year, but if he doesn’t show marked improvement, he’ll move on. It would be stupid to sell him after a ’sophmore slump’ – particularly as he is still quite young. You’re never going to know what a player is capable of until he gets a good long run with the same team, forms relationships and understandings with his fellow attackers. He’s not had that opportunity yet.
As for having Park replace him – I think this has been one of Fergie’s big changes this season. SAF seems content with us blunting our attack if it means that we keep the ball longer, and conceed less chances. Not his old mindset at all, but I guess it’s good for the ole blood pressure. Between Tevez and Park we must have the two bluntest attacking instruments of any major european team. Fortunatley with Rooney and Ronaldo we also have two of the sharpest…
May 4th, 2009 at 11:15
How any Fucker can do such a long drawn out piece of shit of an article debating the prowess or lack of, of a player who had been LEPER-ised the whole fucking season at OT, and think you have done an accurate assessment of the player and his assets to the club, beggars fucking belief! But then I blame Red Ranter for allowing such an article – shame on you RR, knowing full well that the topic of Nani has been discussed the fuck out of, in far more depth than this guy could come up with for the whole season. Do I agree with this geezer, do I fuck, and his writing is based on his own imagination rather than fact. Come back and talk again when a players confidence isn’t blown the shit out of, in a season where he perhaps little understands his ostracisation considering his INPUT to our teams cause last year. And buy the way, in the little time Fergie has let him out of the leper colony, he has got many a good ball into the area, that HAD OUR STRIKERS NOT BEEN SO FUCKING INEPT at taking easy chances, Nani would have had far more assists and better contribution than YOU would ever dream of fellow. So up yours!!!!!
May 4th, 2009 at 11:18
@Beachryan: How can he have had a sopphmore slump Beechy Bro, when he has hardly fucking played, he hasn’t been on the field long enough to have a slump
.
May 4th, 2009 at 11:19
Can’t wait for all the fucking Nani haterz to spout their shit in response to this shit of an article!
May 4th, 2009 at 11:20
@antsBoy: Good point ??????? which good point was that?
May 4th, 2009 at 11:23
REPLY to REdDEVILEDDY, from LAST post.
@RedDevilEddy: So? if you took a look at Redcafe, you’ll see that many of them watch the FK Partizan matches to watch lijaic, you cant compare him to tosic either, they play in different positions.
And as i said, ive seen him play in to matches and he was superb. As you said, its not that you dont expect him to do well, its because you dont want him to do well, because if he does, andy will be on the bench from then on
Back on topic,
Nani is a better player then park, but because evra has been so poor this season, park has played more to help out at the back, mistake 1, fergie should have played Rafael more, and move o’shea at LB, or had the balls to play fabio, but no, he’ll lessen our creativity by playing park to help left back prat out
May 4th, 2009 at 11:26
@Craig Mc:
He was sticking up for nani!
May 4th, 2009 at 11:27
@Dan: I agree with your left side solution comments Dan Mi Man
. I mean Evra has been playing shite for a while now, WTF isn’t there an article on Evra’s prowess or lack of it? 
May 4th, 2009 at 11:31
@Craig Mc: Easy mate, if you read the article clearly you’ll see Stephen is in no way blindly thrashing Nani..he’s supportive of the boy, if anything.
And I never said good point..I replied back to Stephen- “good post, your point remains clear” wrt to his prediction that Nani would start the Boro game
Jeez!
May 4th, 2009 at 11:31
@Dan: How is he sticking up for Nani Bro, agreeing with that guys points? Also who is this fellow? He is not a regular poster even on this blog, and yet he can come pontificating! Why should we accept anything he says in view of this?
May 4th, 2009 at 11:36
Craig, chill the fuck out! It’s an honest assessment of Nani’s contribution on the pitch this season: you would be hard pushed to find many United fans who think he has been performing well. He has given the ball away cheaply; he has looked a bit lost during matches; he hasn’t slotted into our game plan when he has come off the bench – the match against Porto being a good example that could have cost us. But the thing is that United fans do realise that he is a talented player, and has bags of potential. You say that he hasn’t been on the pitch long enough to qualify for a slump, but a footballer’s job isn’t just to turn up on a Saturday and Wednesday and do the business on the pitch; you don’t just get selected for the 11 based on how you played in the last game. Training matters, and we don’t see what happens behind the closed doors of Carrington. Fergie must be seeing something lacking in Nani’s game during training, and so decides he doesn’t merit more game time. It might be a slump, it might be because we have changed tactics this year, and Nani hasn’t adapted so well, it might be that he is a one season hit, it might even be because he is preparing for 50 fairwell gigs at London 02 Arena in 2009 and 10. Whatever it is, his performances on the pitch don’t merit selection, so he has to do it in training, and Fergie and the backroom staff are the only ones who can judge, and pick the team accordingly.
If we do get Valencia, maybe a year on loan for Nani at another premiership club would do him the world of good; confidence wise and development wise.
May 4th, 2009 at 11:37
@antsBoy: If thats what you call being supportive of Lil man Nani, then I’m glad I’m not your missus Bro
. As for your 2nd point, answering Stephen, I apologise mate, I missed that and misunderstood. 
. I am not however stupid enough to fall for the author of this article being supportive of Nani. He has done a whole article FFS on a player that has had miniscule minutes on the field. How can you judge on that? Like I said mate, there has been a gluttonous amount of Nani debating and BASHING all season on this blog, and I’m fucking sick to death of it.
May 4th, 2009 at 11:44
My view on Nani is that he is a victim of Ferguson’s tactics. This season Fergie seems to prefer a lopsided system where on one flank Ronaldo can attack attack attack, but on the other flank he expects the winger to track back, defend etc. So obviously Park has got the nod for most of the season.
If he was played at a different club, allowed to play as a traditional winger, in a team with two strikers who lived in the box and could head the ball-he’d have a dozen assists a season and be a sure fire starter.
May 4th, 2009 at 11:47
@Craig Mc: Hehe…I understand your anxiety bro…but I don’t think everyone is gonna come down here ranting on how much Nani sucks..it’s just facts vs opinion, so chill!
Like one of my all-time fav songs go… “Relax, relax, relax…I need some information first…just the basic facts…can you show me where it hurts”
May 4th, 2009 at 11:48
@Craig Mc: hes written 5 of the last 7 articles
Re-read the post mate, hes sticking UP for nani.
May 4th, 2009 at 11:53
Decent article. The Nani debate is really a polarised one, isn’t it? Especially here on RedRants. However, I see the glass as half full when it comes to Nani. He does have so much talent and like the author pointed out, when he has played, he has produced. The only hinderance to Nani’s involvement with the 1st team is his lack of team chemistry and Fergie’s annoying defensive pragmatism. It is no coincidence that last season when Fergie let the team loose, Nani was a big part of it. That is his style, he is an attacker, not a defender and attackers usually lose possession (which, coincidentally is something Fergie wants us to enjoy more off, hence Berba’s acquisition).
A review of Nani’s performances during the cup games would show his attacking prowress. He can shoot, pass, dribble and has quite some pace. However, just like Tevez, he is suffering from Fergie’s new found obsession with possession play. Which is why we have players who can either keep possession or win it back playing more frequently, especially in the big games. I know for a fact that Nani has a future at Old Trafford and if he can tweak his style just a little bit as Ronaldo has recently done, I see him cementing the LW spot in our team for years to come.
May 4th, 2009 at 12:01
@Craig Mc: LOL, Craig my man, your Nani blinkers not allowing you recognise a balanced opinion on lil man Nani? Read the article again, with a non-assumptive mindset and you will realise he’s making a case for Nani. Not everyone is out to attack Nani mate and even if, you don’t need to throw your dummy out. The guy has written quite a few articles on here recently, all of which have been reasonably thought and wrote out. No need to call it a ‘piece of shit’ if you don’t agree with it. Lighten up, it’s not like you have an obsessive crush on Nani, or do you?
May 4th, 2009 at 12:03
Btw, it seems like Rio might be fit to face the Arse tomorrow!!
Hoping for a shut-out and a goal or two on the counter!! 
May 4th, 2009 at 12:09
People expect Nani to be Ronaldo, and he isn’t, but since they are compared so often, lets look at their first 2 seasons Premier League stats.
Season 1 – Ronaldo: 28 games (14 as sub), 4 goals, 4 assists, 1 red.
Season 1 – Nani: 26 games (10 as sub), 3 goals, 6 assists, 1 red.
Season 2 – Ronaldo: 33 games (5 as sub), 5 goals, 4 assists.
Season 2 – Nani: 12 games (6 as sub), 1 goal, 2 assists.
Now the tail off in season two games is enormous, especially as he was more effective in his first season than Ronaldo was. I think if Nani was given 33 games this season, he may well have contributed more than Ronaldo did again.
May 4th, 2009 at 12:12
@Dan: Is Tosic playing for Academy team at the moment? Haven’t seen him in the reserves, and I’d love to get a look at him. I figure Tosic will figure next season, and they’ve spent six months in the gym building his upper body strength, ala Evra when he arrived.
May 4th, 2009 at 12:26
@Traverse: Well said Trav, but I believe Nani had 11 assists in season 1 – 2nd highest assists next to the Roon, who had 12
.
May 4th, 2009 at 12:33
@Gabriel: You know what to do with your comments mate – stick them where the feckin sun don’t shine. I didn’t expect any Nani love from you anyway, so whatever you say I fucking ignore the content. Its you that has the Nani blinkers, with Anti Nani written on each eye patch.
May 4th, 2009 at 12:35
O and don’t tell me what I need to read again, I read this article carefully, and still gave my viewpoint, which obviously will never agree with yours or his.
May 4th, 2009 at 12:42
@Dan: I dont care Dan what articles he’s written Bro. Like I said, the Nani debate has been gluttoneously debated the shit out of on here, and every fuck has had his say about the lad. It is time to give it a rest. Nani’s confidence is shot to fuck already, without this lot stirring it up again. I will say it again, just in case some of you didn’t read my post properly – I DO NOT SEE how he could come up with this article on a players form and prowess in this A SEASON THAT the lad HAS HARDLY BEEN INVOLVED. Where was this guy and his articles last season when the lad was doing well. Fucking bandwagon jumper, and I wont back down, so you can all trumpet the fuck out of the article, but I wont be doing anything but giving you grief back.
May 4th, 2009 at 12:45
@Traverse: I think he was injured for a few games Trav, but he has played a good few games for the reserves, and I can’t see so far why United bought him. Lets hope he proves us wrong eh Bro?
May 4th, 2009 at 12:50
@Craig Mc: My god craig, just read the bloody article
hes not just talking about form, if you just read the darn thing, you’ll realise hes talking about why nani isnt playing, amongst other things. All you saw was nani, and just assumed everything in the article is against him and so you just dismissed it, its not nice or fair.
And saying you dont care who posted the article is a lie, otherwise you wouldnt of asked who did
May 4th, 2009 at 12:54
@antsBoy: Sounds like a good song Antsboy
. Still doesn’t alter the fact that I don’t think this article ia apt mate. If it was done last year when the player played and contributed greatly BEFORE he was LEPERISED for no fucking good reason, considering the season he had, then perhaps I could accept it more. I truly hope the lad doesn’t listen to the FERGIE shit talk about how Nani is going to play a BIG part for United next season – BOLLOCKS! Mourinho wants to take the lad to Inter M, and if I was Nani I would VERY demonstratively leave OT, and by demonstratively, I mean with the biggest two finger salute to bigoted Fergie, and to the anti Nani United fan base.
May 4th, 2009 at 12:55
@Craig Mc: Whatever man!! Good luck on your solo Nani crusade, shame you’re too obsessed to recognise the other people on here who are rooting for him and want to see him succeed. If you really read my comment, you would realise I had nothing negative to say about Nani, only that Fergie’s new gameplan hasn’t suited his style and hopefully, he can adjust soon enough. But, let’s not allow that get in the way of your Nani Jihad (as it is obvious your worship the lad).
May 4th, 2009 at 12:55
Wow Craig Mc, wasn’t expecting that!!
Like others have said though, if you read the article I am actually more sticking up for Nani than attacking him. Yes I do have a pop at him for leaving early against Spurs because, in my opinion, it was a childish act. Before you start blasting expletives at me again though, that is just my opinion and obviously not fact!
I’m not even going to bother replying to some of your foul mouthed attacks at me. At the end of the day RR has taken me on to help provide content for this fantastic community site and that’s exactly what I’m trying to do.
If you don’t like reading my stuff then I suggest you either don’t bother reading or try and write a constructive post to counter what I say. No need to blow up in my face!
May 4th, 2009 at 12:59
@Dan: I know who wrote the article Dan, his name is plastered all over it – thankyou very much. For your information I read the fucking thing 3 times through, and I will NEVER agree with his points about why he thinks Nani isn’t in the team. If you do agree with his points, well that’s your opinion Bro, but it isn’t mine, so stop trying to make me change my viewpoint mate, because it wont happen. We will just have to agree to DISAGREE
. You wont change your stance on what you feel strong about, and why should you, and you know by now I wont change mine!
May 4th, 2009 at 13:05
@Stephen Darwin: I did write a constructive post – so you read it! I purposely did not use expletives against you, the expletives were the strength of my feeling towards your article on Nani. I don’t care if you are employed by RR to write articles for this blog, because anybody who writes articles needs to expect RESPONSE, and obviously my response is not the sort you wanted – too bad eh? I said why the article was pointless in my opinion, and I gave reason, so too bad if it doesn’t make you happy.
May 4th, 2009 at 13:08
@Gabriel: So what if I do love and support the lad – what is that to you. I don’t tell you who to love and support on the team
.
May 4th, 2009 at 13:23
@colver: Aaaah Colver mi man, someone who can SEE and someone whose eyesight regarding Fergie tactics or way of play that allows Ronnie to get away with NEVER hardly tracking back, but who punishes Nani for failing to do so. Mind you Ronnie has Sheasy or Rafael who are pretty consistent on his side of the field, but Nani has had (in the miniscule minutes played) been in front of an OFF FORM Evra, who has failed to hold up his position for a good while now. So Evra fails, but Nani always the scapegoat. So yeah I agree with your assessment Colver
.
May 4th, 2009 at 13:33
@Stephen Darwin: Your comments here obviously prove my point too, that you don’t post enough or haven’t read and got the feel of this blog, because you would have realised by now how much Nani has been discussed, and how inflammatory it has become. So you know now, that Nani disagreement is rife here, and the incendiary devices will be thrown.
May 4th, 2009 at 13:40
@Craig Mc: i give up, its not about changing you opinion, he is bloody sticking up for nani, and you keep belittling him, tell me, what was so wrong about his article?
He didnt say, nani was shit, he didnt say nani was useless, he didnt say its all nani’s fault did he? he stuck up for him, he said that nani is statistically better then park, but i guess you saw all of this.
Dont bother telling me, theres no reasoning with you, its gone beyond a joke, the second someone mentions nani, you go ballistick, i mean, you call this “How any Fucker can do such a long drawn out piece of shit of an article debating the prowess or lack of, of a player who had been LEPER-ised the whole fucking season at OT, and think you have done an accurate assessment of the player and his assets to the club, beggars fucking belief! But then I blame Red Ranter for allowing such an article – shame on you RR” not rude?
May 4th, 2009 at 13:41
@Craig Mc: Give it a rest, ever think the rest off is wanted to discuss this in a bit more detail in a stand alone post? nah, you thought of your self.
May 4th, 2009 at 13:41
before the carling cup final, evra was one of our best performers. and there have been articles written about that. However, I don’t think Nani’s below par performances have been due to his failure to track back. In fact, that has been one of the positives of his game recently. If you look at the RoM site, after the Fulham defeat, Nani gets a lot of praise for attempting to track back when Ronaldo sulked on the half way line. But the problem with Nani’s performances have been that he hasn’t adapted to our new style – his footballing brain needs developing! He does lose the ball unnecessarily, as do other players though. I don’t think people are being stubborn in their opinion, Craig, but we can only judge Nani on what we have seen of him this season, and it hasn’t been up to scratch. If you want to defend him, tell us why he should be in the team, why he should be playing in front of Park, despite Park’s excellent form, rather than telling us we are all blinded Nani haters. I dislike Ronaldo because of his attitude, and that makes me biased against him (picking up on little mistakes that I would let slide with someone like Rooney or Carrick or Anderson), but I have no problem with Nani’s attitude, and judge him only by his footballing performances.
May 4th, 2009 at 13:48
@Craig Mc: Yeah it’s fair to say that I have only really started following RedRants over the last couple of months. So for that I apologise to everyone and i’ll be doing my utmost to get a flavour for the place from now on.
You have to start somewhere though and hopefully my articles will continue to spark debate even if people don’t agree with them. I’m quite happy to take criticism, it’s part and parcel of being a Sports Journalist.
By the way, myself and RR agreed that a Nani article was due on the site to coincide with the debate within other articles. It was a joint decision and we felt it was an issue that needed to be brought up.
Oh and thanks to those of you that have given this article some credit. Much appreciated!
May 4th, 2009 at 14:00
@Dan: No I don’t think it was rude, it is how I feel whether you like it or not! If RR wants to delete the post, then that’s his prerogative, but that is how I feel and I dont take it back!
I can think of players that you don’t like comments about, but it doesn’t bother me, because you are entitled to your opinion, as I am to mine. So I don’t apologise – NO!
May 4th, 2009 at 14:14
@Stephen Darwin: Fair enough then, I didn’t know about your discussion with RR regarding a Nani post, so I’ll live with it
. Don’t have any choice do I? I am sorry that I cannot take my opinions back, because I do feel very strongly about Nani and the undeserved IMHO treatment he has received from Fergie and fans alike this season. After the season he had last year, I feel it totally unwarrented, in view of his short opportunities on the field this year. I am not surprised he left after being hauled off against Spurs, because like he said it wasn’t his choice. I would have done more than just leave the ground in the circumstances, I would have probably punched Fergie’s lights out first – but hey thats me 
. There has been much heavy debating about Nani this year, and I feel it is unfair to him. I love the lad, and I feel our club has hindered rather than helped his progress. Any regression I blame the club for, because I have visited the training ground several times, and Nani is one of the hardest and most enthusiastic trainers. He often stays behing with Ronnie for extra training and working on his game way after the other lads have gone. This is why I come so heavily against all the Nani hate, although I see a lot of positive comments from the blog community for the lad, which is encouraging. Anyway, I still cannot agree with your thought on why Nani is not in our team, but it is your thought, and you are entitled to your opinion. I however strongly disagree 
.
RedRanter, I didn’t know you had talked about this article being needed, so I jumped the gun in having a go at you. I obviously knew you had agreed to it being put up on the blog. I take back my thoughts about you, but not about the article – sorry.
May 4th, 2009 at 14:38
@Craig Mc: so you dont think calling steve a “fucker” and his article a “long drawn out piece of shit” rude?
@Craig Mc: Thats what i dont understand, the points that you made are exactly what steve is talking about, but you still feel the need to be abusive to him and the rest…
May 4th, 2009 at 14:38
@colver: Spot on mate. I agree entirely. I also do not know why he was bought in the first place. Look at the number of wingers we have with us.
Park – A defensive winger. The preferred choice this season. Tactics you may call it.
Nani – A proper winger who provides crosses into the box and can attack on par with the other wing.
Tosic – Who is tipped to see a lot of first team action the next season. But hasn’t really been setting the world alight with his reserve team performances.
Rooney – Now playing on the left wing. As destructive and defensive as he ever can be.
And of course, Ronaldo.
I for the life of me cannot understand why we are even trying to bring in Antonio Valencia. What will happen to Nani and Tosic? Why were they bought in the first place if they were going to be treated so sceptically?
Also, someone was mentioning this attack,
Hargreaves Carrick
Ronaldo Berbatov Rooney
Benzema
But this seems to fit into terms just about recently when Fergie realised that he could make Rooney a winger. This would be perfect but too attacking in my opinion and will not be fancied by Ferguson who has only wanted to base his team upon defense first this season. And even more, if even Benzema comes in he will have to content with a lot of time on the bench which would be disastrous for his ego.
May 4th, 2009 at 14:59
@Craig Mc: I’ve only taken Premier League stats, since that matters most
I’ll go dig out some all season stats…
He got 1 goal an 2 assists in the FA Cup, and 3 assists in the Champions League.
May 4th, 2009 at 15:12
I hope there’s nothing serious in this …
http://www.redcafe.net/f6/ravel-morrison-possibly-arrested-246929/
May 4th, 2009 at 15:25
Thinking ahead to next season, and Nani’s role in it, I would like to put forth an intersting argument.
Recently, Fergie seems to be shifting back to a 4-2-3-1 formation. Now of the front 4, the first choice would read like this next season:
?????
Rooney Berba Ronaldo
I think tevez will leave and Fergie will go get another striker, who would be suited for the lone striker role. Now of the other 3, Rooney is the most versatile, he can play anywhere across that 4. Berba can play the link man in the hole, and maybe play up top. Ronaldo can play up top, or in both wide positions.
Now does Nani have the flexibility to fit onto that formation? He can play both wide positions of course, but over the course of a season, can he be consistent enough to usurp either Rooney or Ronaldo on a long term basis? If you factor in the new Serbian kid and Valencia who would both be backups for the wide berths, do you really see Nani getting a lot of games?
I think Nani was brilliant last year, mainly as an out and out winger, either right or left. We were playing with Rooney and Tevez up front and Ronaldo joining them, with Nani wide left in most cases, but with Evra on stunning form, Nani’s defensice weaknesses were never exposed.
So unless we switch back to a 4-4-2 and Fergie decides not to stick Rooney wide as a winger, I think its in Nani’s own good that he leaves. I think he is a great player, the only player in our squad currently who can cross, but I think United are moving away from the crossing game.
There is hope though. If Nani can tweak his game a little, like Ronaldo did after 2 seasons, of going into the middle more and being more clinical and direct, he could be a valuable asset who could fill Rooney’s or Ronaldo’s shoes, when they are injured or suspended, but I dont see that happening seeing his confidence is now shot and he is not getting enough game time.
May 4th, 2009 at 15:32
@Traverse: So that is 11 then
, thanks Trav! 
.
May 4th, 2009 at 15:35
@Vivek: Glad you see the Lads confidence is shot too Vivek – sad really. I think your right that it would be good for Nani to look elsewhere for his football future
. I will follow his progress wherever he goes, to see how he is doing 
.
May 4th, 2009 at 15:38
@UnitedUnited: “A PROPER WINGER, who provides crosses into the box, and can attack on a par with the other winger
,” I love you mate 
, and couldn’t agree more!
May 4th, 2009 at 15:53
One has to ask the question, why isn’t Fergie him playing more. If he was absolutely shit hot in training then there’s a good chance Fergie would play him. Maybe he is just not doing it training and Fergie doesn’t feel he’s justifying a starting place….
May 4th, 2009 at 16:02
hyypia is leaving pool, thank god, that means that pokemon skrtle will play even more next season! Ive seen milk turn faster then that lad!
May 4th, 2009 at 16:18
sorry Craig, just read your bit about how he is good in training…..
May 4th, 2009 at 16:21
@Babyface: No problem Babyface, you probably wouldn’t get to see much of the training etc, if you dont have MUTV, and if I remember correctly, you live out in the boonies in China, and find it hard to get a signal to even watch Man United games – right?
So how are things in China going then Bro?
May 4th, 2009 at 16:38
@NicoQB: Lets hope this isn’t as bad as it is being made to look out. The lad is pure class, and a future 7.
May 4th, 2009 at 16:44
@Craig Mc: It’s not my problem if you throw your toys out of your pram everytime someone shares an opinion you don’t agree with. I’ve had enough of this drama queen attitude of yours everytime someone tries to formulate an opinion of Nani. It’s obvious you can’t respond objectively to anyone trying to have a constructive discussion of Nani. So I don’t give a fuck if you say shame on me or whatever. I’ve indulged you enough this season to have a go at people, but I have to draw a line at some point.
At first it can be tolerable. But when every response to a negative opinion of Nani is an ‘Up yours’ then people would really stop bothering to listen to someone who clearly can’t see objectively on a player.
I’ve indulged you enough here on this. Don’t expect it from me again.
For what it’s worth, if you’ve actually read the article, he’s actually written a lot of positives about him. But then I won’t bother debating on Nani with you.
May 4th, 2009 at 16:46
@Craig Mc: You are entitled to an opinion as long as it’s not personal.
May 4th, 2009 at 16:58
I don’t understand how someone can forge such a fondness for one player after what is essentially one and a bit-part seasons? And to say that you would punch Fergie’s lights out if you were Nani – wtf? Fergie picks the team and Nani’s job is to respect that – he has no right to demand to be in the team, and on current form, he has no right to expect it either. UTD > Nani, Fergie > Nani.
May 4th, 2009 at 16:58
@Traverse: I agree, macheda, welbeck, petrucci, step aside, morrison is the REAL star of old trafford!
He is very much a messi/rooney type player in the sense that he can play in any of the attacking postions, LW, RW CAM, SS, ST. i personaly see him as a future NO.10(SS/CAM).
There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that he will make it here.
May 4th, 2009 at 17:03
@Craig Mc: China’s good albeit a little weird. The last time they threatened to show Man U on TV it got bumped by a game of table tennis (female doubles) and that is not cool!
May 4th, 2009 at 17:26
Rio trained today and is 100% fit for tomorrow’s game. Evra and Brown both missed training. Late fitness tests for both. If Evra doesn’t make it, I guess we’ll see JOS on the left and Raphael on the right.
May 4th, 2009 at 18:13
Just read the article and I have to say that Craig’s initial reaction was a bit OTT. Still I for one has mostly been in agreement with most of Craig’s points.
But I have to point out that Mr Stephen Darwin is dead wrong by saying that Nani had a poor game against Spurs. As a matter of fact he was one of our better players in the disappointing first half, but somebody had to be replaced and everybody knew it was going to be Nani. In the end it worked out well as the fab four finally gelled.
On the whole I do agree nonetheless that Nani doesn’t contribute enough defensively, though I have to say that he’s been trying of late.
Another point also: at the start of the season when Park was starting games regularly I remember most people on this site pining for Nani to start. Then after an extended run in the team, Park came good, and most people were happy with him. One can ask himself whether Nani also wouldn’t have eventually come good had he had the same number of minutes that Park did.
May 4th, 2009 at 18:18
previous comment should have had an extended run in the team in bold…
One more thing – when Ronaldo was in his second season he had no competition on the right of midfield – actually he had but in the person of Darren Fletcher, who we all know is a natural CM. Nani on the other hand has Giggs and Park, both of whom are actually true wingers…
May 4th, 2009 at 18:42
Nani’s problems with selection stem from his bonehead decision making on the field!
To be as specific as I can, you will see him shoot when he should have passed and pass when he should he should have shot. His forays down the flanks often lead him into blind alleys, taking the inside route instead of the outside and visa verca. He often makes passes on instinct, not looking up to find his target and consequently gives away the ball to a rampaging midfielder. His tracking back is inconsistent and he will often give away a needless foul in dangerous situations.
These are the issues that have plagued him since his arrival and they are not showing much, if any, improvement.
For a team like United, ball retention, is a vital element to both attack and defense, and to loose posession easily will be deemed as a cardinal sin. It’s something that will be drilled home on the practice field and something that player evaluation will be based on! The elements of his game that excite us most – his great speed and shooting ability, are being usurped by his negative influence in overall team play.
While it’s fair to say that he doesn’t get enough playing time to practice his craft, he himself needs to overcome these shortcomings, either in part or in total. For it’s this and only this that will make his inclusion in the team a reallity!!
May 4th, 2009 at 19:18
@NicoQB: Yeah I guess you’re right. I was a bit quick to call his performance below-par and to be fair he definitely wasn’t the worst player on the pitch.
I guess his reaction with leaving a tad early was the thing that spurred on that initial comment to be honest.
May 4th, 2009 at 19:19
WOW! What a shit storm.
You go to bed and wake up eight hours later and World War 3 has erupted. And I blame one person for all of it. I blame one MR. Red Ranter. Yes you my friend, but hear me out before you go all ballistic on me.
If you remember our personal conversation of last week we actually discussed this topic and how sensitive a topic it was to some individuals on this blog. For that reason and that reason alone, you should never have made it a topic of discussion. You were inviting a shit storm from Craig and from others. Your concerns about attitudes and all should have told you that this topic was strictly verboten for one reason and one reason only, keeping the peace.
I’m sorry if my telling you this upsets you or offends you because that is not my intention. It’s just that I knew how you felt about this topic and Craig’s feeling in particular towards Nani. Therefore, in order to keep peace, harmony and my buddy Craig happy, I really feel suggesting this subject matter to Steven was a major mistake asking for trouble. Nothing more and nothing less. Even if it had some positives, it was nothing more than live bait for Craig because frankly he is too close to this player and his love for the player has forced him to become too defensive and too sensitive to the slightest criticism.
Was Craig rude towards Steven? Yes he was but without disrespecting Steven let me remind you that Craig is a vital contributor to this blog and this blog would truly suffer without his witty, funny, intelligent and occasionally heated contributions. Sure he most certainly lost his cool today, but surely you must have known that would happen. Because anything short of a love fest article about Nani was going to upset him. So in a sense, you RR ignited the fire by suggesting the topic. And again, I focus on our conversation late last week when we actually discussed this topic. Otherwise I would not mention it.
Sorry mate but you almost seem like you were asking for it.
Everyone knows Craig is a pussycat until something bad is said about Nani. And he can even be good humored about it with us regulars because he knows us for a long time and he respects and trusts us and gets it when we are ribbing him or even if we are serious. But Steven is new to our blog and like he said he hasn’t got a full understanding or flavor for the place yet. Although I certainly do not want any of us making it difficult for new members to have their say, new members also do not have the luxury of knowing this blog’s history and it’s membership. He should have shown Steven more respect, but anger clouds a persons thinking when they get in defensive mode.
Red Rants reminds of some of the old towns in the American old westerns where a stranger rode into town and was treated like a Leper if he acted or said anything out of turn. That’s not necessarily a good thing because we’re not always the friendliest of welcoming committees if one offers views that are a bit controversial or on the wild side. But it’s the responsibility of the newbie to travel with caution and carefully get acquainted with everyone before they dive in with something that could backfire in their face. You might think this is wrong RR, because naturally you would like to see this blog grow. I would too, but never ever forget your base and how they contribute to give this blog, life, vigor and personality. Some of us might have our moments and we may frustrate you greatly but people like Craig truly make this blog what it is. A no nonsense hard core Man Utd site that takes no prisoners and shows no mercy but is one heck of an interesting and highly informative as well as entertaining forum. That doesn’t mean we should be rude or call people names and throw insults, but then again, some of us our overly passionate about the team and certain players and when one of our buttons is pushed, well then just look out.
Anyway, let me conclude by saying I know what a tough position you are in and I do sympathize. I also sympathize with Steven because he is trying very hard to contribute and get a feel for the land on this site, but my biggest concern is that today Craig was literally and perhaps unintentionally baited into a major and unfriendly confrontation. He may have been rude about how he went about it, but you know as well as all of us here, that there is one button that should not be pushed when it comes to our esteemed member, and that’s Lil Man Nani. Am I supporting a bully? Yes I am. Because Craig is a great guy and other than defending Nani in bully mode, he is no bully when it comes to other things. And he is really only a bully when newbies come on and try to attack or make sense of Nani. Right or wrong, it’s something you should have seen coming in full 70 mm Widescreen with Dolby and THX. As soon as I woke up I read the article and the first thought that came to my mind, was “Craig is going to go ballistic”. That alone tells me it was a non intentional case of baiting. If Craig was like that about numerous topics, then I would shutup and stay silent and let you deal with it. But we all know about Craig and Nani and we all tread softly and respectfully. Much like how some must tread softly when talking about Huntelaar with me. Are you reading this Dan
Anyway, I needed to add this because this whole event had a catalyst and it needed to be said.
May 4th, 2009 at 19:23
@Stephen Darwin: Here’s the thing Steven, whether your article was positive or negative, stick to your guns and your beliefs. I sense an apologetic side in you when it comes to your writing. Stick to your convictions even if it means you get your rear kicked. Waffling and succumbing to pressure is not going to win you respect or make anyone like you more. Regardless of Craig’s feelings on the article, you wrote well and you should stick to your feelings and ride out the storm. Don’t let others make you second guess what you wrote because you would be dong yourself a disservice. That’s friendly advice from somebody on this blog who has a lot of experience getting into controversial situations but who rarely admits defeat if he believes he is right.
May 4th, 2009 at 19:37
@Grognard: All well and good, but having that kind of blind adoration to someone of Nani’s stature is a bit weird to me!!
If you really want to circle the wagons around a player, why not one with a proven track record from which some constructive, positive aspects could be construed??
May 4th, 2009 at 19:46
@Grognard: Quote, “Anything short of a love fest article about Nani was going to upset him” –
.
. I have learnt quite a bit too over the months on the blog, about not baiting others who I know love certain players, and get steamin about negative comments or seemingly negative comments. I leave the Roon alone for a good length of time now, because I know Liam loves the lad, and also I leave Andie alone, because I know Eddie loves the Ando too 
. Still, I think until the Nani goes I better get a much THICKER skin, because the lad is the scapegoat of the many on this and other blogs 
. Although, I must admit, I am super surprised at the amount of good commenting on the lad in response to this article – 
, very pleased. I have decided to stay very far away from any Nani articles or posts from henceforth, so that people like Stephen Darwin don’t take a load of flak from me, for what have been many months of Nani hate debate!
Well one thing your comments did Grog, is make me realise I did come over rather hard on Stephen, as a newcomer contributor, when he wasn’t too know how much I love the lad Nani, and HATE the Nani baiters, but at the end of the day, Stephen Darwin was just writing an article for discussion. Poor man, wasn’t to know the thunderous response I always give to comments I don’t agree with on Nani. Still I have had my arse kicked by Guardian Angel watcher of the blog RR, and as you know Grog, I am a great believer if you dish it out, you shouldn’t be surprised if your GET IT BACK. So getting a little bit back off RR is okay with me really
Louis Nani – Craigmeisters Numero Uno – much loved indeed by the pussycat turned tiger where Lil man is being downed
. 
.
May 4th, 2009 at 19:46
@Grognard: Some good advice there and I will be sure to heed it.
I don’t want to go on about Craig’s outburst but I do actually stick up for Nani in large parts of the article.
I could understand if I had outright slated him and said I wanted him out of the club, but I didn’t. My closing statement backs that up too: ‘hopefully Saturday will go some way to proving that the former Sporting Lisbon man does still have a future at Old Trafford. I sincerely hope he does anyway.’
Let’s not dwell on it though. As you say I need to get more accustomed to this place, the people who are part of it and their viewpoints. It will take time but I’ll get there!
May 4th, 2009 at 19:49
I will not say where I stand on this Nani issue but, do we really need to sell him?!
The United team that we see right now is based hugely on the depth of the squad, guys like O’shea, Brown, Fletcher and others who are not regular starters but squad players.
If Nani should be one of them, then why not as long as he can live with that, under his performance this years thats exactly what he is.
Every week I read here, that we should sell this guy and buy that guy, people… football clubs arent run that way, we cant simply pay 30m on someone and if he dissapoints then we say off with him.
We got Nani for around 17m (wether or not its money well spent) and he is still 22 (keep in mind not all 22 year olds are Rooneys, Ronaldos or Messis) give him time, if he doesnt shine keep him as a squad player and if he doesnt like it then we can say “see ya later and goodluck”.
May 4th, 2009 at 19:59
@Grognard: To be fair to RR, he did pre-warn me that this was a sensitive issue and that I would have to approach the article with the utmost delicacy.
May 4th, 2009 at 20:23
@Grognard: If you are an advocate of free speech and integrity of one’s opinions you have to stick by it unconditionally.
It shocks me if one thinks it’s okay to excuse personal attacks by some people and not by others. I have given Craig enough latitude to have a go at people for a long time. The article was trying to have a constructive debate, and was not a Nani-hate fest. Which is why Craig’s outburst showed extreme intolerance.
I know it was a sensitive topic, and I had mentioned that to Stephen before he wrote it. It’s also a reason why he was prepared for Craig’s outburst and took it like a man.
I do respect the people who’ve been loyal to this site which is why I do allow most of the regulars some level of freedom and they can get away from time to time, where other newcomers doing the same may even be banned. But if you think that just because you’ve been here for X number of years means you can make any sort of unprovoked personal attacks, then it defeats the purpose of debating on this site.
And it surprises me that you of all the people think personal attacks of any sort can be excused.
May 4th, 2009 at 20:44
@Redrich: How feckin pompous! Someone of Nani’s stature, as opposed to someone of a proven track record. Maybe you are too shortsighted fellow, ever thought of that? You may not see anything positive in Nani, but others do. How did those players get their proven track records, they obviously got a chance to prove himself. Nani was doing a good job of proving himself last season before he was sent to Fergie’s leper colony, but hey, maybe you weren’t around to see that eh? Wierd or not, even players like Nani have their supporters, SO get used to it, because some folk like him and will continue to do so!
May 4th, 2009 at 20:55
@Red Ranter: I have given Craig enough latitude to have a go at people for long enough – WTF! The only time I really have a go at people and get incensed is mostly the Nani situation. There are a lot more sad and bad bastards on this blog than me. I try to encourage most bloggers, because I believe they have a right to give their viewpoint, but as I say to those like Matthew’s post last night, if you want to give it out, wear a crash helmet and expect to get it back. I have always held that philosophy, and I have never come whining to you to sort any differences out, or emailing you complaining about any other blogger. I sort out my own things eventually, as Dominic and I did, and Grog and I in the past. So how about you laying off the ‘personal attacks’ eh?
May 4th, 2009 at 20:59
@Craig Mc: I’m certainly getting used to your hysterical rantings about someone who can’t even break into our first team. You are certainly proving to me, and others here, that you are unable to muster a rational view of things.
If this is how you care to conduct yourself in issues of debate, then I for one, will no longer consider your veiwpoint as a valid one!!
May 4th, 2009 at 21:01
Well good for you, at least that is the one thing I can respect about you and your debating too!
May 4th, 2009 at 21:14
Grog, don’t get into it because of me mate, I appreciate your support, but I don’t want to get you into lumber mate. I have respected Red Ranter in this article blog, apologising for jumping the gun earlier, but he wants to get personal to me FINE. I am not a big girls blouse that can’t take it, it is like water off a ducks back mate. People like Red Rich have their opinions, most of which I don’t agree with, but I will appreciate it if he doesn’t get in debate with me. I have no desire to debate with him. I know who I enjoy debating with on this blog, and there are many that one can have a bloody good laugh and banter with. They are my kind of people. Anyway, like I said, it doesn’t matter, and for the record RR himself gets personal, but hey that seems to be okay. Well it is fine with me and I am done in this thread now. I said all I have got to say.
May 4th, 2009 at 21:25
yeah, apologies if I was harsh on Craig too. I read Red Rants but mainly comment and discuss on RoM, so don’t know sensitivities, personalities. I’ll agree to disagree, and look forward to becoming more involved in RR in future. For now, if the lad does play a part tomorrow night, here’s hoping he cuts inside and puts a screamer into the top corner of Almunia “I’ve got an English canary so pick me for the national team”’s net to send us through to Rome!
May 4th, 2009 at 21:31
@Hughsie88: No problem Hughsie, no offense taken mate. I look forward to you posting more on here. I like the English Canary pun –
, Almunia is very desperate to play for England isn’t he. Next thing we know, we will have an all foreign team playing for Engerland – 
.
May 4th, 2009 at 21:31
@Craig Mc: this is not a ghetto neither is it 16 Century. behave like an elite. what the hell are all those f words for. for starters, am one guy whose followed Nani ever since he was in Sporting Lisbon coz i like his play but believe me not, he failed to master the team chemistry at OT. don’t defend him for not having playing time coz that’s what it takes to play for Man United. Look at people like the Twins, Evans, fletcher they never had that time, you just come in the team do you part help the team win and there you are.
Even wondered why english teams are now dorminant in Europe, no you don’t! Football is nolonger about passing and talent its about doing the dirt work best coz that’s what this generation footballers hate. Anyone can attack nowadays and there are many fancy and slick players in the world but the best players are those who can stop them.
You may attack Park for all the playing time he’s hard and low returns he has, but dont forget the freedom he gives out full backs and our strikes when he’s on the pitch. the other time SAF complained about Ronaldo’s lossing possesion and fails to care! If Messi can get involved in defending who’s Nani then? How many times has he gone to win the game without making a foul?
Last i often watch United’s training on MUTV but the lad has just failed to click. How long are we going to call a 21 year Old a younster. He’s still young, he’s still young. that’s how spoilt they keep going. If you want to be a world class player and more so a hit at United by 21, you should be doing far better than he’s doing.
May 4th, 2009 at 21:41
@Jay Jay: Cut him some slack will ya? I mean, he apologized, Stephen Darwin took it lightly and here you are telling him off. I mean read the comments before yours to get a clear view of what has been happening before you commented. You are only raising the shit storm all over again when it has just been dying.
Now, to everyone who thinks I am a newbie, I am not. I have been following this community for the past year or so and have been subscribing to all the comments. So I know what people like around here and what people don’t. And Jay Jay, telling people off is something people around here definitely despise.
May 4th, 2009 at 21:45
@Jay Jay: Errrr I’ve NO IDEA who you are mate, but in response to your questions ……………………..
1. Where did you see in all my comments here me mentioning Park or complaining about him? Nowhere mate!
2. I think Nani does as much defensive work as Ronnie! He is not an energiser bunny like some, but he is not as little a worker on field as Berba for instance. That is my opinion anyway, although I actually like Berba’s contribution a great deal, in the many games he contributes.
3. Again IMO there is no reason why Nani should have had less games this season, when you compare what the lad gave us last season. My complaint is he hasn’t had the opportunity to prove his worth this year. He played a great part in getting us to Wembley and the semi final of the FA cup, and CC, but was left out in the cold at Wembley. Do I think that was warrented – NO I bloody don’t!
4. As for the expletives, have you ever been on the terraces mate, or do you just watch the games from your armchair where everyone in your family has SANCTIFIED gobs? Just wondering like
May 4th, 2009 at 21:47
@UnitedUnited: Thank you KIND Sir
. Much appreciated!
May 4th, 2009 at 21:50
To all: This is actually funny you know!
May 4th, 2009 at 22:01
Nani has a lot of talent but as I’ve said before he has absolutely no football brain. You see Rooney and Park play and even though they don’t have the athleticism of Ronaldo and Nani they know where to be at the right time. You see Park although not the most naturally fast player get into fantastic positions by using his brains whereas Nani seems to have an attitude where he gets the ball on the byline in a position to cross which he is extremely good at and he feels the need to try and beat his player and ends up losing the ball. The main difference between Nani and Ronaldo is that Ronaldo, despite not having the best football brain himself has learned from his mistakes and adapted to his surroundings. If you remember in Ronaldo’s first few seasons he would automatically do about 20 stepovers before doing anything with the ball if he still had it. As he got older he cut the crap and used his speed, drive and power to beat players. Nani’s big problem is that he hasn’t adapted. If he started the next game he would play the exact same way as he did on his first game. It’s a shame because he has all the attributes to succeed and I really hope he can step it up and prove to be a player that it was worth signing over Ribery.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:06
Back to more pressing matters!!! I’m waiting for Dan’s prediction for our starting eleven tomorrow! And what will be the stakes this time?
May 4th, 2009 at 22:07
luis nani is the real deal. simple as that
iv said it once il say it a million times, the boy has it all in his locker…
all this “Nani out” chat is plain laughable to me…
who we gonna sell him to? Inter?Juve? No thanks, how bout we keep the lad and reap the rewards when hes a fully matured footballer??
sounds like a better option to me!!
…WATCH HIM GO NEXT YR….No doubts about it
May 4th, 2009 at 22:08
@Craig Mc: Anytime pal.
@Liam: I think comparing Nani with Ronaldo is unfair because of the number of chances that Ronaldo got. Fergie automatically prefers Park over Nani and hence the lack of games. So, we will not know whether Nani has really got it in him to improve unless he gets games on the pitch.
Oh and Rio and Evra are both fit for tomorrow. Good news that. And Grognard, Fergie thinks Anderson is Scholes’ replacement. The first thing that came to my mind after reading that was how you would react to that. And the best part is that Fergie reckons everyone at OT is lighting candles in the hope that Anderson scores some day.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:09
I’m bored. Can we talk about something else?
I’m sure there is some football happening soon or something…
May 4th, 2009 at 22:16
@Craig Mc: If you could just slow down and try to put into words, that we could all recognize, the point you are trying so hard to make, you may well win over some of his doubters.
For example why don’t you list the things that makes him so special to you?? Why don’t you explain the qualities that could make him an automatic selection on every teamsheet? Why don’t you address the negative points brought up here, with some rational counter arguments, that could shed some glimmer of light onto your passion for this man?
I swear, mate, you are your own worst enemy on this issue!!
May 4th, 2009 at 22:23
@Craig Mc: Let rephrase that statement: “I have given Craig enough latitude to have a go at people for long enough on the Nani issue.”
And you know it quite well, and so do many others here. Ask Grog himself and he’ll tell you.
And I make personal attacks?
Ok, suit yourself.
As I said I don’t have a problem with you in general. It’s just your tendency to get personal anytime someone makes any comment on Nani that’s even slightly negative.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:23
@UnitedUnited: Don’t know if Evra being fit is good news…
@Traverse: Sure: Wenger reckons arse will do a magnificent performance tomorrow…
Else, what rock & roll bands are usually associated with United? Apart from the Stone Roses I mean…
For information, I was happy that wolves got promoted for next season. I’m looking forward to spot Robert Percival Plant in the stands!
May 4th, 2009 at 22:31
@Red Ranter: Okay, fair enough, I hear YA! My lips are Nani sealed
. I’ve run out of EXPLETIVES anyway 
.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:31
@NicoQB: Do United need another band other than the Roses?? Ian Brown is God!!
“It’s not where you’re from, it’s where you’re at” -IB
Loved the King Monkey.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:34
@Redrich: I think Craig (in his mist induced eyes) has been mentioning it for some time now: until Nani gets an extended run in the side, we will be unable to judge him objectively.
He has his negative points but only he among the big name players has not been given minutes to prove himself this season.
And I for one cannot counter this argument: Tevez, Berbatov, Park have all been given minutes to prove themselves, to varying degrees of success. Nani has not, end of. And I can distinctly remember times when even if he had not been great (rating 8 or 9) people were calling him dreadful (rating 4 or 5) more out of frustration, fergie substituting him, than anything.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:35
@Redrich: Mate I have written many reasons in nearly every post on why I think Nani deserves to play, and why I like the lad, but ALAS, ALL FALL ON DEAF EARS
.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:41
@NicoQB: Nico mi man, you know me so well
. Thank you for explaining to those those who cannot quite understand where I am coming from 
. The other point to add to yours, is that Nani LOVES the club, and apart from his little act of frustration and fast exiting OT when hauled off again for no understandable reason, he has bore his LONG SENTENCE on the bench WITHOUT COMPLAINT. Same cannot be said for the mouthy Tev, Ronnie, Evra and even Roon who make their displeasure known when left out even for one game 
.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:42
@NicoQB: My old band used to be signed to his label. He has a gigantic face.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:43
@Traverse: My sentiments exactly Trav Bro, we should be pondering who our team will be for the CL game with Le Arse tomorrow!
May 4th, 2009 at 22:45
Sorry guys i know this is off subject but i just really wanted your opinions of this. My cousin in italy told me that apparently filipo inzaghi is available this summer as he may be sold for as little as a few million pounds. Now i know hes what 35 but the man is a natural goal scorer and if we got him on a say 2 year contract i would be well happy. In my honest opinion should carlos leave we have 2 great looking talents in macheda and welbeck, trouble is they aint ready and wont be for another 2 years. So in my opinion instead of paying big money on another new striker i think we need an experienced short term deal for a player to come in for a year or 2 and then these 2 can step up.
Thats my opinion anyway, and i just feel we need a bloody good goal scorer. Not a speedy player, just a player who will sit on the bench, come on whenever and score goals. Forget his age, just look at his scoring rate, 16 this year in 28, hes just a great goal scorer.
So my question is would you be happy getting in inzaghi for less than 5 million on a short term deal. The man will score goals and is a cheap option who will sit on the bench without complaining. Obvious downside is his age, but does that matter. He doesnt and never did rely on pace and hes in good condition so maybe thats not such a big matter to consider. I dont know, just thought i would mention that as i would quite fancy bringing him in, he seems a good option to consider anyway.
I may get a bit of stick for this but oh well, what all your guys opinions on him?
May 4th, 2009 at 22:52
@Redrich: You can never underestimate an individuals taste and liking for something or someone. I’ve see good looking friends of mine marry absolutely ugly hags and I ask myself why they would settle for somebody like that? But that’s me being superficial. Nani strokes all of Craig’s requirements for a footballer. I like Nani too but not anywhere near the adoration Craig shows, but then again, I get lots of abuse because I will defend Ballack and Riquelme with the same venom and passion because those two do it for me. There’s nothing homo erotic about it, we just have a strong love and loyalty to certain players and we get defensive because challenging those players skill set and abilities is also challenging our good taste and ability to evaluate talent. Obviously Craig feels Nani has been done wrong by Fergie. I for one agree but obviously, I am not as passionate about it.
Craig lived in Manchester for a long time and he has seen Nani up close and personal and has watched the lad’s training and development and perhaps based on what he sees, he just might have a point. Either way, he is protective of this player. That’s nothing new. I see it in sports here in North America too. Look at all the people that love Tevez for his work ethic and seem to ignore the man’s inability to make a pass or control a ball on a first touch. Go figure!
May 4th, 2009 at 22:53
OK lets get on to team predictions. Im predicting:
EVDS-Rafael, Vidic, Rio, O’Shea-Carrick, Anderson, Fletcher-Ronaldo Tevez Ronaldo
Blitz them for thirty minutes, get the crucial away goal we need. Bring on Berbatov and Giggs and play keep ball for the remaining 60 minutes. If we can do that to Inter, we can do that to Arsenal. End of.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:53
@NicoQB: Mist induced eyes?
, well stop sprinkling that star dust in them then Bro 
.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:54
For all of Park’s “great form”, it amounted to fuck all eh?
I’d rather have given Nani those games. As it stands, its a lost season for him and its really due to little fault of his own.
May 4th, 2009 at 22:57
@Eric the Red: Sorry, sorry, pardon me!!
I don’t know what came to me..
THough i’ve heard that the Fall.. Not sure about it though..
May 4th, 2009 at 22:59
@colver: Colver Bro, if you want to play KEEP ball, you really don’t want to play ‘give the ball away’ Giggsy. Giggsy has his assets, but KEEP ball isn’t one of them!
May 4th, 2009 at 23:01
@MUFC Fan in America: MUFC – your OKAY mate
, and so right too!
May 4th, 2009 at 23:03
@Traverse: Wow! Brown or Plant? Is he actually a nice bloke? (well I really know that both are, just wanted to hear it!)
May 4th, 2009 at 23:03
I think our Polish GK must feel more than a bit POLE-ER-ISED for a while now too, with Ben Foster now establishing himself in Fergie’s eyes as No2/future Edwin replacement!
May 4th, 2009 at 23:03
@Stephen Darwin: Fair enough mate and you are more than welcome on this blog to speak your peace. You won’t always get agreement but for the most part, you will get respect and appreciation. Cheers!
May 4th, 2009 at 23:06
@Matt: Inzahgi has been a great goalscorer mate, but Fergie seems to be going for younger blood these days. However he did bring in Laarson for a short time exactly to give us goals, so who knows?
May 4th, 2009 at 23:12
@Craig Mc: You sounded like *thinking of a simile for someone fighting alone against a torrent of differing opinions* pfff… Pandora??
Just had to give a helping hand to my buddy craig!
Sorry – my english’s in my socks today – gawd even that sentence…
May 4th, 2009 at 23:13
@NicoQB: Yeah, Plant. He’s nice enough, but the people who ran the label were chumps, and on something literally the entire time. We dropped them, and then eventually stopped ripping off the deftones too….
May 4th, 2009 at 23:13
@Grognard: The name of the blog, grog, the name of the blog!!!
May 4th, 2009 at 23:14
@Hannoodi: We should sell him and here’s why. Fergie and the team are hindering his development. He’s not some no talent schlock who is just grateful to be around the team. He isa super talented individual who starts for his country in Internationals and who has the ability and potential to be a world class player. The problem is he is in Fergie’s doghouse and quite often when a player gets thrown in there, he is there for life. Nani has too much to offer as well as learn and he will never be able to develop as long as he is ignored and not utilized. He is the best crosser this team has yet when we need a goal and we send guys into the box to try to get something, why is it we never send Nani on to apply the service? Much is asked of him which is not his game and that makes him ineffective. He shouldn’t have to cover up for the deficiencies of one Patrice Evra the way Park does. No, Fergie should bench Evra and buy a LB who will play that position better. Since when should a highly skilled and talented player have to become a sacrificial lamb for the good of Fergie’s close minded favoritism and old boys club?
Bottom line is Nani has been treated abysmally by this club and it’s manager and he deserves the chance to reach his potential and play for a team that will appreciate and value what he brings to the game. Clearly he was a poor purchase for our team because he never ever filled the criteria that Fergie seems to want from hios wingers, which is two way play. Check that, I forgot, Ronaldo can get away with murder and not track back. Some will say that’s because he is great and scores lots of goals. Well Ronaldo wasn’t any better in his first two seasons with us as Nani was last season but he never ever got benched for not doing everything Fergie asked of him. That’s because the roles for these players has changed this year with United’s total change in style and philosophy. United is into ball control and possession and tracking back now and clearly Nani does not fit this style. My feeling is, if you love him, let him go. He deserves better than he got from us.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:16
@Stephen Darwin: I thought so and I I think you did. I just think that you did touch on a few issues that Craig for one has become sick and tired of having to defend. Read my reply to Hannoodi to get a better feeling of why he gets so upset.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:20
@Craig Mc: Well it is good that he brings in youngsters cos hes buidling more great stars for the future so in that respect the man is doing something for the future even though he knows he wont be around to see them hit their peak, its not really in his job description to build the team for the future but he does anyway and thats whats great about him.
But you do have to say its great bringing in the younger players but they take time and sometimes an old head coming in can be very benficial to these young players. We potentially have 2 stars in welbeck and macheda but they need time and i feel bringin in another striker in his prime is gonna limit their chances in the long term. A striker like inzaghi and as you said with larsson before were experienced players and inzaghi would only be on a short term basis. But hes a goal scorer and would score goals and in say a year or 2 when he retired these 2 could be ready to start coming in on a regular basis. Im liking the thought of bringing in inzaghi more and more, he would be a great signing imo.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:22
@NicoQB: I think Craig can speak for himself!!
@Craig Mc: OK lets hear them again. And I promise to have my eyes wide open this time!!
@Grognard: I never questioned Craigs taste, I’m just curious as to why he’s feels so passionate about Nani. It’s one thing to say “I love this guy” but there will always be the question remaining as to exactly why!!
@Craig Mc: Please be more open to dissenting veiws. The war of words are won be the steady head not a quivering heart!!
May 4th, 2009 at 23:28
@Traverse: Aah I wouldn’t be able to stand in his presence! I would literally self-combust from giddiness, shyness, and whatever.
Don’t know much about the Deftones except for the name, really.
Personally I’m slowly shifting from to being your average classic/indie rock fan to a folk fan – Drake and his cohorts… Right now I’m taken by Daniel Johnston…
May 4th, 2009 at 23:28
@Grognard: I do understand your point, and a few weeks ago I would have said the same thing but I have always been a man of the club, I want whats best for Manchester United not whats best for Nani, or anyone else for that matter.
Thats just how I feel.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:30
@Red Ranter: It’s got nothing to do with free speech mate, it’s all about keeping the peace by limiting possible flare ups and combustible scenarios. You knew there could be problems with this topic yet you went ahead with it. That alone should excuse Craig because it’s like throwing meat out into a shark infested sea and expecting the sharks to stay away from it. It’s not going to happen.
One of the things I have always liked and respected about you was you believe in freedom of speech and your tolerance of many and mostly me has been nothing short of amazing and highly admirable, but I just feel you kind of dropped the ball on this one. No you shouldn’t tolerate poor behavior and insults from anyone, especially a valued long time regular like me or Craig or Dan etc. But you also need to know that some of us carry a certain amount of baggage with us that the other regulars on this site know about and are sensitive towards. Craig is very protective and defensive about Nani, I am about Germany, Ballack, Riquelme and “Total Football”. I will fight for those players and styles of play and teams against anyone who says anything to the contrary about them. I won’t insult them or bad mouth them but then again, I am sensitive towards insults myself, so I will only do that if insulted first.
Although you should not condone Craig’s outburst, he is honest with his feelings and the one thing you have to say for him is he dishes it out but will also take it like a man. Sure it shouldn’t have to come to that but then again, Nani is as dear to him as my hatred and animosity towards George W. Bush is to me. It really brings out the worst in me when i get into conversations about that Anti-Christ prick. Anyway, cheers for handling without putting down the hammer too hard, and cheers to Steven for taking it a lot better than the old Grognard would have taken that beating dished out by my Bro Craig. Now lets have a love fest.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:40
Here’s the team for tomorrow. I don’t think Fergie will risk Evra, so I believe that our back 5 should be – Evans (he can play RT and LT fullback) when necessary, Rio, Vida, Sheasy and VDS of course. I think Andi can do a job on Fabregas, Carrick and Fletch will no doubt be in MF, with Rooney, Tev and Ronnie up front.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:40
@Grognard: Its seems your favorite players are Ballack and Riquelme, and I do understand they are great footballers and I also kind of like Germany especially Schweinstieger I feel he can fit in at United somehow, but I want to know whos your favorie United player right now?
May 4th, 2009 at 23:40
@Craig Mc: Hey I support my mates. I see where you went a little ravenous in your reply but I also understand where you are coming from and I agree with your assessment of Nani. I was supporting you because I felt RR unintentionally baited you into this. He knows like all of us here that you have a real issue with anything anti Nani. I just felt he should have asked Steven to write an article on anything else so that he could spare your feeling as well as your wrath.
So in a sense I am supporting both of you by offering my view of the altercation.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:43
@Craig Mc: The day “Aluminum” plays for England will be a sad day for England. The guy is totally useless and it’s taken three years for him to mhave a game like the one he had against us. And what really did he do but save a bunch of shots that were at him or very reachable. He’s shite.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:47
@Grognard: I can’t understand myself why Nani was chosen as an article for the blog, purely because he has been discussed so MUCH for ages and ages, to the point was everyone on the blog were sickened hearing about him. But they sure as feck have had to put up with EXTRA NANI PORTIONS today haven’t they
. To be honest though, I think this will be the end of all Nani discussion for a long, long time, because we have had OVERLOAD 
.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:47
@Jay Jay: I’d leave it be mate. It’s bad enough if he gets this kind of grief from some of us regular contributors but you are respectfully, a newbie or somebody that hardly shows up. In my view that hardly puts you in any position to criticize somebody who has contributed a lot of fun, knowledge and input into this blog over the past two years. Wrong or right, it’s not for you to make that judgment, having hardly been around to experience all the past Nani talk that has led to this.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:48
@UnitedUnited: Well said mate.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:50
@NicoQB: We’re overjoyed that you are so amused mate. I’ll invite you to the next town lynching if you’re interested?
May 4th, 2009 at 23:56
There once was a guy called RedRanter,
Who got sick of all Nani Banter,
He said ’shut the fuck up’,
we’ve all had enough, and get back to things THAT MATTER
Now we’ve got to play the Le Arse,
and lets hope it isn’t a farce.
Cos Wenger has said, they’ll thrash us reds,
with a right football kick up the arse.
The whole nation wants the Mancs spanked,
They all want to see us get downed.
So they can party, while we are smarting,
But Fergie always has other plans.
COME ON YOU MAN UTD RED DEVILS.
May 4th, 2009 at 23:56
@UnitedUnited: I almost fell off my chair in laughter. It’s so typical of Fergie. He is saying that because he plays head games with his team all the time. He knows they all read the stuff online and he will say things that he hopes will motivate his players. Anderson has his positives, but his negatives are the kind I cannot see much future improvement in and thus there is no way in Hell he will be the long term heir to the Scholes throne. Not until he can finesse a pass, show vision in tight and congested areas and finish like a footballer as opposed to an old lady wearing stiletto heels. Sorry, built I just don’t see it and as arrogant as I may sound, I am rarely wrong when I go on a crusade about a player whether positive or negative.
May 5th, 2009 at 0:04
@Traverse: Rather than saying you are bored why not contribute a new topic yourself mate. Stop being a follower, be a leader.
May 5th, 2009 at 0:15
@Craig Mc: Loving the club means fuck all to Fergie. Becks, Keane, RVN, all loved the club and had set up long term roots in the city but for Fergie, that was not good enough. Scholes, Neville and Giggs are still around because they get Fergie and know better than to challenge him or ever show doubt or frustration whenever he make a decision. Nani shows his displeasure at being subbed off and his lack of totally understanding the Boss has hurt him. Then again, there are those like Rooney and Ronaldo that seem to be able to get away with murder, but heck they are superstars and Fergie has different rules for them.
May 5th, 2009 at 0:23
@Grognard: I believe some level of hypocrisy is needed in club management — especially when it comes to man management/media management. Which is why Ronaldo and Rooney always seem to get away with murder. However, if not exercised judiciously, it could be fatal to the manager’s career. In Fergie’s case he seems to be able to do it so well that he’s made this hypocrisy, in treatment of players, work for him. He’s made it an art form, I’d say.
That, and the fact that he’s at the club for over 20 years.
May 5th, 2009 at 0:39
@NicoQB: No worries mate. Just showing my love for the Roses. I don’t know if they play many other band’s songs at OT, you’ll have to get a local to answer. For me, I make a habit of listening to them on the iPod on the way to the pub before every match. As for the Fall, to the best of my knowledge Mark E. Smith is a Shitty fan.
May 5th, 2009 at 0:44
@Redrich: He loves him for the same reason I like him a lot. He’s quick with his feet, has nifty moves, a dangerous shot and ability to dribble out of traffic and has the ability to cross with many of the best crossers in the game. This year however he crosses in the box and most of the time nobody is there to benefit from his service. His weaknesses are his ability to get frustrated and lose his composure, he occasionally stops thinking and tries to do it all himself, and a bove all, he refuses to be one of Fergie’s bitches.
May 5th, 2009 at 0:49
@Hannoodi: That’s where you are different than me and Craig mate. We want what’s best for United too but we also have favorite players who we want to and would like to see do well. If it won’t be for my favorite club, then I am more than happy to see him play for most other clubs as long as it is not a hated enemy. I may never forgive my favorite player Ballack for his signing with dreaded Chelski. That was a hard pill to swallow, believe me. But I still love him as a favorite player. I just boo him when he plays United because United comes first. The team is not however exclusive. I am not one of those who accepts everything for the good of the team. I don’t like it when players I like get shafted, and Nani has gotten the royal shaft this season.
May 5th, 2009 at 0:51
@Craig Mc: Sink me! You are poet, and I did not know it.
May 5th, 2009 at 0:54
@Red Ranter: Fergie gets away with murder and double standards both with players, referees, the media and FA because he has had twenty years of success and has been knighted. He has been given the benefit of the doubt and freedom to wield his cane anywhere and anyway he wants. He’s earned that right but it’s not right and leave it to the Grognard to let him know.
May 5th, 2009 at 0:58
@Hannoodi: I’ll name two because my favorite has been sitting all season long due to injury, that of course being Owen Hargreaves. After that my favorite player is and I make no bones about it, Cristiano Ronaldo. But that comes with conditions. As long as he respects United and stays United. Coming in third would be Nemanja Vidic. Always loved the Serbian for his class and physicality. My all time favorite United player is and always will be the King Eric Cantona. Long Live the King.
May 5th, 2009 at 1:04
@Craig Mc: Like I said earlier, RR and Steven wanted to go fishing for tuna and landed in a section of sea with a hungry, angry and ravenous Great White Shark known to us as Craig. I can picture the scene right now with the soundtrack from “Jaws”. DADUM…..DADUM…..DADUM…..DADUM DADUM DADUM……..EEEEEKK EEEKKK EEEEKKK! I think you get the picture. I guess you would have preferred to feed off of a naked Kimberly Walsh rather than poor Steven and RR?
May 5th, 2009 at 1:09
JEEZ!
This is the headline story at the Guardian and I have to say I am totally shocked by it. And yes they are saying Man Utd,not Man City. Perhaps Fergie has finally knuckled under and listened to the Grognard. Who says I have no stroke at OT? 
Manchester United launch £63m bid for Bayern Munich’s Franck Ribery
“Manchester United have made an offer of about €70m (£62.5m) for the Bayern Munich midfielder Franck Ribéry as they close in on a deal that would shatter the world transfer record.
Sources in Munich confirmed the bid has been received for the France international, who has made his desire to leave Germany known in the past few weeks. United scouts have repeatedly watched the 26-year-old in recent Bundesliga matches and sounded out his friends and entourage in Munich.
United’s remarkable offer, which comfortably eclipses the record £44m paid by Real Madrid for Zinedine Zidane in 2001, is contingent on the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Madrid this summer but the approach to Bayern has been firm enough to suggest that the Portuguese’s departure is a near certainty. Although Bayern are understood to have turned down United’s offer, it is considered the first serious move in a negotiation that will eventually bring the winger to Old Trafford.
Ribéry, who earns €8m a year at the Allianz Arena, the equivalent of £134,000 a week, is set to replace Ronaldo as United’s highest-paid player. Due to the unfavourable exchange rate and taxation levels in Britain, the Champions League holders, who take on Arsenal in the semi-final second leg at the Emirates Stadium tonight, will have to spend closer to £145,000 a week to match his net wages at Bayern. Money, however, is not the determining factor for Ribéry. The former Marseille player, who moved to Munich in 2007 for €25m plus add-ons and is contracted to Bayern until 2011, has repeatedly turned down offers to renegotiate a contract extension on improved terms.
Finishing only 16th in the running for the 2008 Ballon D’Or after a season in which he had inspired Bayern to a domestic double – “I am disappointed, I should have deserved better,” he said – and his club’s 5-1 aggregate defeat by Barcelona in the quarter-finals of this year’s Champions League seem to have convinced him that a move to a bigger club has become necessary.
Bayern’s general manager, Uli Hoeness, who has ruled out a sale of Ribéry throughout the season, softened his stance over the weekend. He confirmed Bayern were already eyeing up Werder Bremen’s Brazilian midfielder Diego, 24, as a possible replacement “in case Ribéry were to go”.
Manchester City, who have included the Frenchman on a short-list of transfer targets, have been hampered by their lack of Champions League football next season and are not seriously in the running.
Barcelona recently came close to an agreement with Ribéry but negotiations halted when news of their interest was leaked to the French press by sources close to the player last week. Although Barcelona have not officially pulled out, United are now best placed to entice Ribéry abroad. Relations between Bayern and United are cordial despite displeasure at Sir Alex Ferguson’s aggressive pursuit of Owen Hargreaves in the summer of 2006. The English international moved to Old Trafford for £17m in July 2007.
It is understood that Bayern have rejected Ferguson’s first offer but, with the Germans no longer insisting on a prohibitive €150m valuation – “We would perhaps let him go for that,” Hoeness was quoted as saying in January – negotiations between the clubs are sufficiently advanced to suggest an agreement can be reached before the player goes on holiday in June.
In an interview with the French sports paper L’Equipe last week Ribéry indicated that he would leave Bayern if his team did not qualify for next season’s Champions League: “In those circumstances it would indeed be very difficult to stay, that’s obvious… That’s why the club has to finish at least second.” Bayern are currently second in the league, three points off the leaders VfL Wolfsburg. Only Germany’s top two teams are guaranteed places in the Champions League.”
May 5th, 2009 at 1:12
I don’t think we will lose Ronaldo in the summer, but if we do, Ribery is the best replacement possible. Not as many goals but way more assists and team play. And dare I say if you take away Ronaldo’s step over, Ribery has way more moves and flair in his arsenal. And he has become a great goal scorer who would be good for around 15 a year. Interesting stuff and a great topic to get off the Nani debate once and for all.
May 5th, 2009 at 1:22
Has everyone seen this past weekends episode of Special 1 TV. Probably the best one they ever had. I love the Dr Who bit as well as the Sven spreading Swine Flu bit. And Jose put Lamps in his place too.
CLASSIC STUFF!
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/article2411042.ece
May 5th, 2009 at 1:50
@Grognard: I seriously doubt it would take that much to get Ribery and tbh that’s silly money and we could buy a top striker and a top winger for £30m and be way better off. I mean we could probably get Villa for £30m with Valencia’s finances and bring Silva along with him for less than £60m. I just wish we had’ve signed Ribery 2 years ago for 18 measly million!
May 5th, 2009 at 1:59
@Grognard: What!?!? No love for Sven’s Mountie pimping?
May 5th, 2009 at 2:12
@Grognard: Fuck me, that is big news!! And it’s astonishing that the story would break right before a critical run of games for us.
The Guardian has been talking about the Ronaldo departure ever since Christmas and are now following up with story about Ribery. To run all this without a solid source would certainly be journalistic suicide for those involved and would also seem out of step for a usually reliable paper.
So if all this is true, I’m truly left without comment here. Ronaldo leaving, and a record fee for Ribery. The first thing that comes to mind is “is this a fair swap”, for the team and for us supporters.
I’ll have to put my jaw back into a more normal position before I say anything else!!
May 5th, 2009 at 2:16
http://www.youtube.com/watch?gl=IE&hl=en-GB&v=-B6ucoSoIy4
Watch. Laugh. Legend
May 5th, 2009 at 2:28
@Eric the Red: Careful, Eric, we don’t need anymore hurt feelings today, do we.
@Grognard: Just-a-kidding my man.
May 5th, 2009 at 2:32
@Liam: Just goes to show how the game is still treated like a joke here. Gary Radnich certainly didn’t do his homework, but of course he didn’t need to, because 999 out of a 1000 wouldn’t know if that whole thing was real or a spoof!!
May 5th, 2009 at 2:37
@Redrich: He’s responsible for the greatest goal of all time, where’s the joke
according to the internet.
I love when he starts going on about Manchester and the clip they are showing is of a goal against Birmingham. I thought Huck handled it quite well though tbh
May 5th, 2009 at 3:44
@Liam: What gets me is that it is the lead story at the Guardian. Now the Guardian may be a lot of things but the Sun it ain’t. So it makes you wonder. My biggest problem is wanting my cake and eating too. I want Ribery as well as Ronaldo.
May 5th, 2009 at 3:47
@Eric the Red: Well Ah! Sven’s Mountie pimping was an act of desperation from a man clearly looking for a job. But we’ll be damned if we let that Swine Flu carrying jackass into Canada.
May 5th, 2009 at 3:50
My big gripe with Nani this year, is that he simply hasnt been giving a chance. He is constantly being jerked in and out of the line up. Then people love to moan about how when given the chances he doesnt take advantage. Anyone who has player sports at a decent level knows that confidence comes thru being played consistently(and before you bring up Ole remember that he is the exception and far from the rule.) Stats dont mean a fraction of what people make them out to be. People love to look at a players goal record in relation to his games played, but they never take into account games played consecutively or regulary. Players like Tevez, Nani and Anderson have played sporadically this season and so its no wonder that there performance is just as sporadic. You can also see that in those three they all have a tendency to run like a chicken with their head cut off or trying to do to much. This comes from them trying to make an impact and make Fergie select them for the next match, so you see how they just end up digging a bigger hole.
As for Nani leaving early, put yourself in his shoes. He isnt just a armchair footballer,he is a extremely talented player. first half against spurs(contrary to what the Nani-bashers will have you believe) he was one of our best players. How was he rewarded? He was sacrificed in a tactical change. I agree with Fergie with the move, but I also understand Nani frustration he just cant win. So i find it a little unfair that he gets shtick for leaving, because people dont take into account the events leading us up to this point.
May 5th, 2009 at 3:50
@Redrich: I personally think it’s BS but like you said the Guardian is generally reliable source and something like this might be found in a small paragraph in their rumor section, but for it to be the lead article means they seem pretty sure of themselves. Which also makes me wonder what the Hell is going on with Ronaldo?
May 5th, 2009 at 3:54
@johnsom33: That would mean that your gripe would not then be with Nani but with Fergie. It’s he who is not giving him a chance, not Nani himself.
May 5th, 2009 at 3:57
@Redrich: I dont believe it for a second. The UK media have been praying for Ronaldo to leave, and they just arent ready to chuck in the towel. Ronaldo is staying, end of story. I dont care how self absorbed he may be. No player would honestly believe that they alone could fix that Real Madrid team. Madrid need 3-5 years of solid team rebuildiung until they are capable of using a player of Ronaldos services. I think this year really made it clear to Ronaldo that the move just isnt feasible at this time. He is one game away from going back to the CL final, and for a higly competive lad like him winning is the most importnant thing. He may want to be in Madrid but he knows he wont win anything there for awhile.
I do however believe fergie has recognized the errors of his ways and is lining up a bid for Ribery. I think a figure in the 30-35 range should suffice, and he will prolly throw in a player like nani to sweeten the deal..
May 5th, 2009 at 3:57
@Liam: Isn’t blind ignorance hilarious?
Darren Huckerby a legend? After that I say there is hope for Nani if all you need to do is to reach the status of Huckerby to become a legend. Crikey! 
May 5th, 2009 at 3:58
@Grognard: Sorry about my poor wording(I had a million thought going thru my head). My beef was with the Nani bashers.
May 5th, 2009 at 3:59
@Redrich: I found the Mountie Pimping hilarious. They got the hat all wrong but it was funny. It was the Dr Who thing that made me laugh hardest though. Shutup Dalek! Special!
May 5th, 2009 at 4:04
@Stephen Darwin: Well congrats for rattling the cage here. Oh and I mean it!!
Every point of view will offend a few, engage a few, and probably put a few to sleep. You article was not such a point of view, as it was an examination. The only thing you didn’t state was whether he has a passing grade or not!
I wouldn’t be shy about your involvement here though. The status quo has propped itself up with arguments towards a commitment to free speech, but then want nothing more than to censor the content of any dissenting article that offend their fragile persona’s.
What’s good for the goose is good for the gander, so I would urge you (and RR) to continue with your polished journalistic ways, but add a little more spice to the proceedings. Give your observations more of a personal angle and commitment.
The idea of sitting on the fence is to give you time to ponder the day ahead, but sooner or later you have to get off to your left or to your right. It’s only then that your ponderings become fact or fiction!!
Keep up the good work, and may I suggest a poll on whether SAF is doing a good job or a poor one. Shit, I do think that may well fry my computer!!
May 5th, 2009 at 4:05
@Grognard: Im with you, I want Ribery but I desperatly want him with ROnaldo at the same time. I am 51% confident that we will sign him this summer. As you pointed out some time again, fergie along with Wenger and FSW all had a chance to sign Ribery for under 20m two years ago. I cant for the life of me figure out why, he was as close to a cant miss player as you can get.
Unlike Wenger, Fergie isnt afraid to splash the cash on a player that he knows he missed. I could easily see Fergie calling his buddy’s down in Bayern
and nick Ribery from under Barcas noses.
May 5th, 2009 at 4:06
@Grognard: Yes, Shut up Dalek will be a phrase used again and again. Absolutely, fucking precious!!
May 5th, 2009 at 4:08
@Grognard: My favorite part of S1tv, is when Mourninho is ranting about how managers can keep there job with out producing silverware, and then Sven leans over to wayne and says “why do you think im clmoring to get back in?” hahahahah I was crying .
May 5th, 2009 at 4:20
I know we all live all over the world so I have a question concerning The CL game. I live on the West coast of the US so its 8pm over here. those of you in the UK are obviously in the morning. SO my questions is this… Is it better to be in the UK because its already “game day”, or is it better to be in the States, where we get to sleep for the next 8 hours and wake up with in hours of kick off?
a silly question I know but Im just curious as to what people would prefer(for those of us who arent lucky enough to actually attend the game.)
May 5th, 2009 at 4:22
@Liam: That was hilarious.
May 5th, 2009 at 4:32
so… if we’re voting on most controversial post of the year,
this one’s got my vote.
is there gonna be a new post up for the game?
I think we’re gonna have it tougher than last week,
arsenal have their back against the walls, and with RVP back in the lineup, just gives our defenders more headaches..
either way, I reckon the battle will be won or lost in the midfield, where I do believe we are the stronger between the two!
just wanna keep my fingers crossed that rooney doesn’t get a yellow this game and misses out on the final..
May 5th, 2009 at 4:34
@johnsom33: Also living on the left coast, I find the the time warp horrible. Because I work, I have to record the game and then watch when I can later. I don’t really have to dodge the news reports because it’s almost never reported on, but I usually dodge all internet content including this blog and because of that I sometimes feel out of the loop.
Better though, than the old days, when I’d have to phone my cousin to see if we’d won or lost!!
May 5th, 2009 at 4:39
@Natzca: I agree that the way to play Le Arse is to flood midfield. With that, and Rooney out left, tracking back, its a winning formula. The only way we can loose this tie is if our key players just fall apart. Not happening!!
May 5th, 2009 at 4:45
@Liam: hahaaha!!!
“did the earthquake pay as much for you as AC Milan paid for Ronaldinho”!!
“Do you like Victoria Beckham?”
too many funny quotes in that!
May 5th, 2009 at 4:53
@johnsom33: mate, I’m in Australia,
we have to wake up at 4:45am to watch the game
May 5th, 2009 at 4:59
Dimitar Berbatov admits to being wannabe gangster
By Steve Anglesey
“The charge that Dimitar Berbatov always plays like he has a cigar on the go is closer to the truth than you might think.”
Manchester United’s strolling Bulgarian has confessed to practising his English by watching The Godfather gangster trilogy, and said of the The Godfather Part III’s star Andy Garcia:
“Lots of people tell me that I look like him. He has actually influenced my choice of hairstyle and I have even studied the way he smokes so I can hold my cigarette in the same way.”
May 5th, 2009 at 5:11
There’s no way Fergie or the Glazers will pay out 63 milllion. Sure we pay big money but we are not insane. Can’t help thinking the story is bollocks.
May 5th, 2009 at 5:14
anyway to do a poll on here?
who would everyone prefer -
Ronaldo
or
Ribery
put me down for Ronaldo.
May 5th, 2009 at 6:23
@Natzca: I am a big Franck Ribery but on his day, nobody beats Ronaldo. Ronny all the way. I’d even prefer Ronny over Messi because Messi is injury prone and soft despite his immense skill.
May 5th, 2009 at 6:50
@Grognard: Do you think left wing is rooney’s best position? from what I have seen from the last few games I am starting to belive that he is the answer to all our problems on the left.
May 5th, 2009 at 7:12
@Grognard: yup, I know he’s not always on his best “behaviour” but damn, when he’s on, he’s definately on.
If we could have Ribery on top of Ronaldo, it’d be brilliant, but not in exchange of…but that’s not gonna happen with a price tag like that!
all these mixed up messages in the media are doin my head in though,
first ronaldo says his Real dream is dead,
but then we “make” a move for Ribery?!
doesn’t really add up does it?
Anybody have any real information?
May 5th, 2009 at 7:50
@johnsom33: He certainly looks comfortable out there but it wasn’t always like that. Last year he would occasionally play out there and disappear or try to track back far too often. This year he still tracks back but he has concentrated on making more of an effort in attack. I still think his best position is as a second striker trolling just outside of the box. If Rooney can ever channel his energy and his temper properly, he has the skills and imagination to be England’s Leo Messi. He has an outstanding Arsenal of tools and I often think he is wasted by the way he is used at United. Capello and England actually get more out of him and more goals by playing him like a second striker.
May 5th, 2009 at 7:53
@Natzca: If Ribery come here you can count on the fact Ronaldo will be leaving. Problem is I love Ribery but Ronaldo and Messi aren’t worth that kind of money. Ribery is worth half that and so for me, it would be a foolish waste of money because with 75 million they could by three world class players and make the team stronger all round. If Ribery was as good as he is and only 21 or 22 I’d say yes, but he is 26 and although that is certainly not old, I fear he is close to peaking or may have already peaked.
May 5th, 2009 at 7:56
What I love about Ronaldo is he may whine and cry but he is actually very tough and durable. He also has a way of influencing a game even when he isn’t playing well or is invisible. He can disappear and then all of a sudden there he is with a great header or a free kick. He’s virtually impossible to completely shut down. Like in the first leg against Arsenal, he was quiet all game but then had a great header stopped by the fluke Almunia and then he hit a cracker that smashed on the crossbar. That’s greatness and having a flair for coming up big despite not being the center piece of the game.
May 5th, 2009 at 7:57
@Grognard: yeh, not a great idea to trade in a younger player for an older one.
ah it’s all prob BS anyway, just creating hype and distraction round this time is really unecessary, we have 4 games in the next 14 days?!
dam it’s the most important part of our season,
and we don’t need distractions like this, Kaka, etc…
May 5th, 2009 at 9:04
@Redrich: Thanks mate. Like you say it’s better to have an opinion on something than just sit on the fence to appease.
On the Ribery debate, I think £60 odd million is way too much but at the end of the day with City lurking about and Madrid’s pursuit of Ronaldo in the past, this is the current state of the market.
I would love to see the Frenchman at OT but I can’t see him turning down Barcelona. I expect Hleb to go in the opposite direct too to sweeten the deal.
May 5th, 2009 at 9:13
Looks like Madrid is interested in Evra?
May 5th, 2009 at 10:37
Would be real wonderful if we manage to get Ribery(i personally doubt it). If it happens, i feel that it would be to replace Tevez and not Ronaldo. With Ribery, it gives us the option of playing Ronaldo up top and not lose the threat down the right. Not bringing in a new “proven” striker would allow ours kids the opportunity to play. Anyway, which “proven” striker would be willing to come off the bench.
With Ribery(hopefully) and the return of Hargraves next season, we may have a more settled and stronger midfield than this current season. Wonder who Fergie would play alongside them in the middle.
May 5th, 2009 at 11:45
@Redrich: POLISHED journalistic ways????
.
May 5th, 2009 at 11:57
@Grognard: Delectable Darling and lush puppy Kimba Walsh versus RR and Stephen – no feckin contest Grog
. Lush puppy Kimberley WILL always be a major distraction in the mega interest ratings, than any other interests – MORE even than Man United and Lil Man Nani rantings 
. I love that girl BIG TIME 
.
May 5th, 2009 at 12:01
Og and Grog, Lush puppy Walshie is the only person to escape the EXPLETIVES, as in the presence of the heavenly, one has to have a somewhat MORE sanctified GOB
.
May 5th, 2009 at 17:19
@Craig Mc: I knew that one would get a…….RISE……out of you, if you get my meaning.
May 5th, 2009 at 23:20
@Grognard:
, yeah I get that rise OK – always 
.