Reds Can Be Optimistic

Has there ever been a more exciting time to support United?
That might appear a strange question following the club’s most disappointing season in recent history, with the Reds finishing seventh in the Barclays Premier League and suffering demoralising exits in both domestic cups and the UEFA Champions League, but the answer is arguably "no" for most fans.

As the results continually went sour throughout 2013/14, confirming the prospect of a trophy-less campaign, supporters were often reminded that we had been spoiled for over two decades under the stewardship of Sir Alex Ferguson, the most decorated manager British football has ever seen. While that is definitely true, particularly for this 24-year-old writer, it doesn’t extinguish the fire in the belly and that yearning for success. If anything, it only fans the flames. What are we supposed to do, accept defeat? Winning silverware is ingrained into our club and it remains the main objective.

The appointments of Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal and Ryan Giggs as his assistant have galvanised everyone that is emotionally attached to the club, particularly after watching Holland annihilate Spain in their World Cup opener before gleaning maximum points from tricky Group B encounters with Australia and Chile. Though nine points from nine is clearly impressive enough, the manner in which each victory was earned with wholly different tactics has captivated most. Pace and power destroyed the Spanish, guts and determination overcame the Aussies while the Chileans were stylishly picked apart, like a boxer keeping his opponent at bay with a series of jabs before executing knockout blows in the latter rounds. All of this has only whetted the appetite for August and United’s curtain-raising fixture with Swansea.

The questions that followed van Gaal’s hiring have also intrigued the mind. Who will be his United captain, which formation will he favour and just how long can he hold that 'death-stare'? But more importantly, as is always the case in football, which new players will arrive at the club? Thankfully, given that Twitter was about to implode with impatient fans, answers were provided on Thursday and Friday as Ander Herrera and then Luke Shaw signed on the dotted line, kick-starting what is widely viewed as a make-or-break summer.

While it is all too easy to get wrapped up in the furore surrounding big-money transfer fees, fans are quite right to be enthused by our new arrivals and what the 14/15 season has in store. Yes, observers will question both price tags - but honestly, which deal is not scrutinised in the modern game? The truth is that, in Herrera and Shaw, who have a combined age of only 42, United have invested in the future and two players who could represent the club for over 10 years apiece. Now I don’t know about you, but that represents outstanding value to me.

Herrera remains a relatively low-key name to the English public, but listen to any of the reputable Spanish journalists and his success at Old Trafford appears inevitable. “I feel sure that within a year, everyone at the club will be saying what a great signing he has been,” explained Guillem Balague, prior to the deal being concluded. “I am also convinced that - while he still needs to score a few more goals - his quick feet and brain will make him a key member of the Spanish national side. And a Manchester United star.”

As for Shaw, Premier League fans are well-aware of his considerable abilities and another positive future awaits. Just ask his former Southampton team-mate Rickie Lambert, who spent years climbing the football pyramid before earning his first England cap at 32. His achievement is heartwarming but contrasts with Shaw, who took his own bow at 18. “Luke must think this is easy for everyone,” says Lambert, now a Liverpool player. “But it shows just how well he has done and he deserves everything he is getting. To be where he is in such short time is unbelievable. He has everything.”

So why not dream big? Admittedly, there is still work to do at Old Trafford and it's far too early to make predictions, but I see no reason why van Gaal's men cannot compete for trophies. This is United, after all. Anything can happen.

Credit: Manutd.com

Herrera Ready To Play For Louis van Gaal

Ander Herrera is relishing the prospect of playing for new Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal after completing his move to Old Trafford.

Herrera was a target for Van Gaal's predecessor David Moyes 12 months ago, but he remained at Athletic Bilbao when the transfer window closed.

United have moved much quicker for Herrera this summer and, earlier this week, he became van Gaal’s first signing since the Dutchman was named Moyes' successor.

Van Gaal is currently with the Netherlands squad at the World Cup and Herrera cannot wait to work with the former Ajax and Barcelona coach.

"Louis van Gaal is one of the best managers in the world and, for me, I am lucky to be working with him," Herrera told MUTV.

"I want to learn a lot of things and I cannot wait to play with van Gaal, my new team-mates and for Manchester United.

"I'm really excited to go on pre-season to America and play against Roma and Inter Milan."

Herrera has outlined the qualities he will bring to United and he is looking forward to the prospect of testing himself in the Premier League.

He added: "I am a midfielder and one of the best qualities I have is that I always want to be involved. I want the ball and want to help my team-mates.

"I know the Premier League and really like it. I think I will grow up in the Premier League. It is one of the best leagues in the world."

The 24-year-old will link up with David de Gea and Juan Mata at Old Trafford, and Herrera has spoken to his fellow Spaniards about playing for United.

"I know they are very happy," he said. "I was talking to them and they told me this is the biggest club in the world and that we have a very good squad.

"They can help me settle at Manchester United. We are very good friends and I'm sure they will help me adapt at the club."

Yorke: Shaw A Good Investment

Former Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke believes that the club have an investment for the future in Luke Shaw.

The 19-year-old became the world’s most expensive teenager when he moved to Old Trafford from Southampton for around £30million.

He is manager Louis van Gaal's second signing in two days and takes United's summer spending to nearly £60million following the arrival of Ander Herrera from Athletic Bilbao.

“It’s been in the pipeline for sometime now and they’ve finally got him,” Yorke told Sky Sports News. “He’s a fantastic left back and he’s had an outstanding season – a lot of United fans will be delighted they’ve got their man.

“But Patrice Evra is still at the club and he’s going to have a lot to say about who has that left back position!

“I don’t think he’s the complete article – he’s still a very young boy – but by going to United you’d expect him to develop.

“You can see the potential – and I think that’s why Evra is still at the club, so he can learn from someone who’s been very successful at the club.

“He will learn a lot about being at a top football club and I’m sure he will turn out to be money well spent.”

Yorke feels that Shaw and Herrera's arrivals are just the start of a busy summer for United in the transfer market.

“You look at the players who have left Manchester United – Rio (Ferdinand), Vidic, Ryan Giggs and possibly a few more – they need to add to the squad, probably six or seven players from what I’m hearing.”

“The manager is on duty with Holland at the World Cup and doing extremely well but I’m sure he’s got one eye on the players he wants to bring in.

Tony Adams is another who thinks Shaw is worth the hefty price tag.

Speaking at a charity boxing event in East London to raise money for the Mo Farah foundation, Adams said: “That’s the price of a player these days – and Shaw is a super player. And they need a left-back.”

Giggs: I Wasn't Ready To Be Manchester United Manager

Manchester United assistant manager Ryan Giggs has admitted he is "not quite ready" for frontline management.

Giggs took over at Old Trafford for the final four games of the season following David Moyes' dismissal.

Louis van Gaal was subsequently appointed boss, with retired midfielder Giggs, 40, named as his assistant.

"There were a lot of things I was quite happy with. But there was the odd thing where I thought 'I'm not quite ready for this'," Giggs told thefa.com.

"I thought I could do with a little bit more experience."

Giggs was appointed to Moyes's coaching team last summer, although he continued his playing career alongside his new role.

Now the Welshman has retired from playing - after 963 appearances for United and 64 caps for Wales - he believes it will be easier to absorb the lessons to be learned from a manager as experienced as Van Gaal.

"This year I can put everything into it and learn from someone who has managed at the top in so many other countries," said Giggs.

"It has been a good thing that I have been with [former United boss] Sir Alex Ferguson for so long but I am now getting to see how other people work as well."

Opinion: Luke's A Shaw Thing

One of the many wonderful things about supporting Manchester United is the fact that when you spot a footballer with potential, there is a chance the club will attempt to sign him at some stage in the future.
Maybe it is simply an identification of somebody who has that special ingredient to become a 'United player', a term that is difficult to define but one that every supporter will fully understand.

I remember watching Wayne Rooney in the 2002 FA Youth Cup final for Everton against Aston Villa and being blown away by his talents. I tracked his progress and always hoped he would join the Reds and was delighted when it came sooner than expected after his exploits at Euro 2004 for England.

Roy Keane was another such example of a player United simply had to sign. His box-to-box work at Nottingham Forest made it clear he was probably the only midfielder around who could replace Bryan Robson. Following Forest's relegation, the opportunity to land the Irishman presented itself and I was saddened when Blackburn Rovers appeared to have won the chase for his signature. Thankfully, Sir Alex was able to pull off a British record swoop in the nick of time.

One magical moment from Dimitar Berbatov, pirouetting like a ballet dancer at Charlton Athletic before scoring in style, made me realise the Tottenham striker was something special. I had a conversation with a cab driver the following day and stressed it was 'world class'. While not agreeing with his assessment that the Bulgarian was Spurs' best-ever striker, I felt he certainly had the skills worthy of gracing Old Trafford.

Some slipped through the net, perhaps going back for me as far as Paul Gascoigne. I would specifically watch Brazil's international matches, where possible, to initially see Juninho and then Ronaldinho in action. United reportedly showed strong interest in both South Americans. Again, I feel they had the flair required to make an impression in Manchester and was disappointed they never wore the red shirt.

There are occasions when an individual's performance against United leaves no doubt he is tailor-made for a transfer to Old Trafford. Cristiano Ronaldo is an obvious example but Denis Irwin was exceptional for Oldham Athletic in both the FA Cup semi-final of 1990 and the subsequent replay.

Luke Shaw first came to my attention when playing against the Reds in the Southampton youth team and Under-21s. I'm pretty sure I'd already seen him shine at Academy level when he appeared at Altrincham's Moss Lane in October, 2012.

An entertaining affair finished 3-3 and he was superb at left-back. I made a mental note to monitor his progress and was not surprised to see him nail down a regular place with the Saints. MUTV's David Stowell started a discussion on Twitter asking about the most impressive opponent for the youngsters at the end of that season and I nominated Shaw.

Aware of the mounting speculation that United were interested in the defender, as a long-term successor to Patrice Evra, it was fascinating to witness his battle with Adnan Januzaj in the final game of last season, after he'd already proven he could handle the big stage in the 1-1 draw at Old Trafford back in October. The full-back produced a masterclass in defending against his fellow talented teen and, if it was considered an audition, it was one he passed with flying colours.

It instantly reminded me of Irwin's displays back in a time when United were starting to build an all-conquering side under Sir Alex. If Luke Shaw can come anywhere close to reproducing the consistent brilliance of the Irishman then he will prove to be an outstanding acquisition for years to come.

Credit: Manutd.com

Shaw Signing Thrills Albiston

Arthur Albiston believes Luke Shaw can force his way into the Manchester United team and become the regular left-back for the next decade.
The teenager will compete with Patrice Evra for a starting spot under new manager Louis van Gaal after sealing his move from Southampton on Friday.

Albiston, who performed on the left-hand side of the Reds' defence with distinction in the 1970s and 1980s, is in little doubt the Shaw deal is shrewd business by the club after analysing the youngster's performances for the Saints and England.

"Obviously, he's a great addition to the squad," the Scot informed MUTV. "He's a top-quality player. We've seen that in the last couple of seasons since he broke into the Southampton team at such a young age. Now he's taken it a step further by getting into the England squad and playing in the team.

"Some people might have argued they didn't want to take him but it was a fantastic experience to go to the World Cup at that age. I'd like to think he'll be playing in future World Cups and European Championships for his country. More importantly, I want to see him playing here at United for the next 10 years.

"He's only a baby in terms of league experience. But he's shown he can handle it by playing in the Premier League with no problem at all. He has fantastic physique about him.

"Some people find it a little bit difficult to settle in. He won't. He looks as if he's very level-headed and had a good upbringing at Southampton, a football club that seems to churn out a lot of good players.

"He seems to take everything in his stride. There is no weakness about him. You try to pick fault in people but he just does everything exactly right. Every pass seems to be perfectly weighted, he's a good tackler, you can beat him but he gets back because he's quick. I'm looking forward to watching him here."

Büttner Transfer Finalised

Manchester United has finalised the sale of Alex Büttner to Dynamo Moscow for an undisclosed fee.
The Dutch defender was one of Sir Alex Ferguson's last signings when arriving from Vitesse Arnhem in August, 2012. A dependable understudy for Patrice Evra at left-back, he scored on his debut against Wigan Athletic and also netted in Sir Alex's final game as manager at West Brom.

Although continuing to play second fiddle to the experienced Evra under David Moyes, Büttner was outstanding against Bayern Munich in the Champions League when the Frenchman was suspended, marking his fellow countryman Arjen Robben superbly.

Overall, Büttner made a total of 28 appearances for the club, 25 as a starter, with his final outing coming in the 3-1 defeat of Hull City at Old Trafford in May.

Everybody at Old Trafford would like to thank Alex for his service and wish him well for his new career in Russia.

Credit: Manutd.com

Ex-Reds Welcome Herrera

A host of former Manchester United players have welcomed the signing of Spanish midfielder Ander Herrera, following his arrival on a four-year contract from Athletic Club.
The 24-year-old scored 11 goals in 128 appearances for the Basque team and, most recently, helped them to a fourth-placed finish in La Liga. Now that his transfer to Old Trafford is complete, MUTV caught up with four fans’ favourites to gather their thoughts on the deal…

Andy Ritchie: “I think it is a fantastic signing, we have been after him for a while and he has been on our radar. I have been impressed with him. We all know that we needed midfield players and I think we have got one now that is a real talent and is still quite young. We are going to get a lot of games out of him and longevity, which is something that Manchester United always look for. I think we are going to get that in Ander Herrera.”

Alex Stepney: “We have been looking for midfield players for the last couple of seasons, since Paul Scholes finished. I think it's a great signing. Let's hope he hits the ground running. We have got to hit the ground running and everyone has to be moving in the same direction. This is something that will boost everybody from the supporters, to the club and his team-mates.”

Kevin Moran: “Well, we certainly needed a midfielder and somebody of his quality will definitely be an asset. People around Old Trafford might not know too much about him but, by all accounts, he has the pedigree that is needed. I hope it is the first of a few signings. I certainly think it is needed and he is at the right age. He has got the legs that we need in midfield.”

David May: “We have been crying out for a top-class midfielder and, when I have watched him, he has been the real deal. He is the perfect age as well at 24. It will help to have David De Gea and Juan Mata here, I am sure they have already spoken to him about what the club is all about and how big it is, the fans and their passion. He'll be a fantastic addition.”

Profile: Luke Shaw

Widely regarded as one of the most exciting prospects in English football, 18-year-old Luke Shaw arrives at Manchester United with the potential for many seasons of success ahead of him.
Having returned from the World Cup in Brazil with Roy Hodgson’s England, Shaw arrived at the Aon Training Complex on Friday to seal his move, just a day after the Reds completed the signing of Ander Herrera from Athletic Club. Here, we chart his fledgling career...

The early years: Despite his tender age, United’s new recruit is remarkably experienced after flourishing at Southampton under the tutelage of former managers Nigel Adkins and Mauricio Pochettino, making 67 first-team appearances to help the Saints cement their status as a Barclays Premier League club. However, his progress at St Mary’s began back in 2004 when he joined the south coast outfit as a fledgling 10-year-old prospect... but only after boyhood team Chelsea turned him down for being too small. “I think it was only when I was about 14 or 15 I got taller and bigger,” he recalls of his time at Stamford Bridge. “I can't remember much of being released. But I remember the first day of my trial at Southampton – I got a phone call straight away to say they wanted me.” Shaw then graduated through a youth academy that has recently produced high-profile graduates such as Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale, Arsenal’s Theo Walcott and their very own Adam Lallana, alerting several big clubs to his seemingly immeasurable talents.

First-team action: In January 2012, Shaw took his much-anticipated first-team bow during an FA Cup fourth-round draw at Millwall aged 16, coming on as a 77th-minute substitute for Jason Puncheon. He then watched from the stands as Southampton earned promotion from the Championship, although his chance to shine was just around the corner and a first-ever professional start arrived via a Capital One Cup first-round win at Stevenage at the outset of the 2012/13 season. A Barclays Premier League debut would follow, paving the way for a maiden campaign that yielded 28 first-team appearances as the Saints secured a respectable 14th-place finish. The 2013/14 term followed suit as Shaw registered another 41 outings, impressively missing just three top-flight fixtures. Perhaps most notably, his team-mates became the league’s surprise package with a brand of football that helped them finish just eight points behind United in eighth place.

International honours: Shaw earned his first full England cap in a friendly against Denmark in March 2014, producing an effective cameo at Wembley. Speaking afterwards, the patriotic teenager was understandably elated: "Wow, I'm 18 years old, I've played in the Premier League over 50 times and now I have a cap for England and not many 18-year-olds can say that. I'm very proud." That performance helped convince manager Roy Hodgson to pick the 18-year-old ahead of his idol Ashley Cole for this summer’s World Cup in Brazil – becoming the Three Lions’ third-youngest squad member in history behind Theo Walcott (17) and Michael Owen (18). While Everton's Leighton Baines was preferred for the defeats to Italy and Uruguay, Shaw was given the nod against Costa Rica and kept a clean sheet alongside new United team-mates Chris Smalling and Phil Jones. He is now expected to start when the Three Lions begin their qualifying campaign for Euro 2016 in September.

What they say: “Luke must think it is this easy for everyone. But it shows just how well he has done and he deserves everything he is getting. To be where he is in such short time is unbelievable. He has everything. Not many people get past him – the best wingers in the Premier League won't get the better of him. I can't remember one. For such a young lad it is frightening really. I think it is full credit to Southampton that the mental strength of them coming into the first-team and taking it in their stride, I have never seen anything like it.” – Rickie Lambert, former Southampton colleague

Shaw: I'm Here To Win Trophies

Luke Shaw says the lure of winning trophies convinced him to join Manchester United, the club he describes as “the biggest in the world”.
The 18-year-old England international has signed from Southampton and is now looking forward to working with new manager Louis van Gaal. Speaking exclusively to MUTV, Shaw explained how it feels to have finally signed on the dotted line at Old Trafford.

“It’s a great feeling," said Shaw. "It’s been going quite a long time and I’ve known for a number of weeks that United were interested in me. I was hoping it might have been done before the World Cup but it wasn’t and now I’m finally here, getting it done. I’m very pleased and can’t believe it has happened.

“Manchester United is the biggest club in the world and is always going to be up there with the best. I think the main reason I’ve come here is because United want to win trophies and so do I. As a young lad, I aspired to win trophies.”

Shaw will now compete with Patrice Evra for the left-back berth and the teenager can’t wait to meet the Frenchman: “I’m really excited to be working with him. He’s been one of the best left-backs in the league for the last few years now and it’s something that I’m looking forward to, to be training with him. Hopefully, I can learn a lot from him.”

Shaw Signs For United

Manchester United is delighted to announce the signing of Luke Shaw from Southampton Football Club. He joins on a four-year contract with an option to extend for a further year.
Shaw, 18, recently gained his third cap for England and was the youngest player to feature in this year’s World Cup campaign. The left-back has made 67 appearances for Southampton since making his debut in 2012.

Luke Shaw said: "I am thrilled and excited to be joining Manchester United. I have been at Southampton since I was eight years old and I would like to thank them and the fans for everything they have done for me. I want to continue to progress my career and joining United is the ideal place for me to do that. I am looking forward to this new chapter in my life and also looking forward to learning from the world-class players and management at the club."

Manchester United assistant manager Ryan Giggs said: "Luke is a very talented young left-back with great potential. He has developed immensely during his time at Southampton and has all the attributes to become a top player. I am delighted he has joined Manchester United as I believe this is the right club for him to continue his development as a young player and eventually fulfil that promise."

Profile: Ander Herrera

Manchester United has announced the signing of Ander Herrera from Athletic Club. But how much do you know about the Spanish central midfielder? Read on to learn more…
Background: Ander Herrera was born in Bilbao on 14 August 1989. His schooling in Spanish football came at Real Zaragoza where he made 41 first-team appearances and helped them win promotion to La Liga in 2009. Two years later, Herrera moved to Athletic Club in the city of his birth for a reported fee of £6.6million.

The Bilbao boy: As one third of an effective midfield triumvirate that also included Oscar de Marcos and Ander Iturraspe, Herrera became a key component in a team that quickly ascended the ranks of Spanish and European football. In fact, during his first season at San Mames, under the tutelage of maverick manager Marcelo Bielsa, the club were runners-up in the Europa League and Copa del Rey. A hernia injury proved troublesome throughout the 2012/13 campaign, when a series of big-name players secured moves away from Bilbao, although Herrera's eventual return helped steer Athletic away from the relegation zone. With his reputation enhanced, interest from overseas clubs, including United, was reported. Alas, it wasn’t to be and the playmaker continued to impress in Spain, scoring five goals in 33 appearances to help secure a fourth-placed finish in 2013/14.

Have we met him before? In March 2012, United welcomed Athletic Club to Old Trafford for a Europa League encounter that was meant to be one-sided. Unfortunately, the Reds were caught off guard and suffered a humbling 3-2 defeat at the hands of Bielsa's powerfully energetic side. Herrera played a starring role that night, clocking up 86 minutes of action and one assist for de Marcos. A second-leg defeat at San Mames followed, sending the Reds bowing out of Europe. After witnessing his team's defeat, Sir Alex Ferguson said admiringly: “Athletic Club's work rate is higher than any I have seen in Europe. But it is not just about their work rate, they are very good footballers too. They will go far.”

Country calling: Herrera has so far been capped by every age group with the Spanish national team except the senior side and he notably played alongside David De Gea and Juan Mata for the Under-21s. He also made three appearances for Spain's Olympic team during the 2012 Games in England. With all the talk of a watershed for Spain's World Cup-winning midfielders, following their early exit from Brazil 2014, Herrera's full debut could be on the cards if he catches the eye with United.

What we said: "Ander is a fantastic young player, with great energy and creativity. We believe him to be one of the brightest young prospects in Spain and I am certain he will be a big hit with the United fans. I’m delighted he has made the decision to come to Manchester and play his part in the club's future." - Ryan Giggs

What he said: “Signing for Manchester United is a dream come true. I have played at Old Trafford for Athletic Club in the UEFA Europa League and it was one of the highlights of my career so far. I have joined United to do all I can to help the team reach the club's objectives. Having arrived on Tuesday I'm excited to now be living in Manchester and I can't wait for my first game in United's famous red shirt.” - Ander Herrera

United Sign Ander Herrera

Manchester United is delighted to announce that, after triggering the buy-out clause in his contract on Tuesday, it has signed Spanish central midfielder Ander Herrera from Athletic Club in Bilbao, pending the receipt of the International Transfer Certificate. He joins on a four-year contract, with an option to extend for a further year.
Ander, 24, from Bilbao, joined Athletic Club from Real Zaragoza in 2011 and has since made 128 appearances, scoring 11 goals. He has been capped by Spain at Under-20, Under-21 and Under-23 level.

Manchester United assistant manager Ryan Giggs said: "Ander is a fantastic young player, with great energy and creativity. We believe him to be one of the brightest young prospects in Spain and I am certain he will be a big hit with the United fans. I’m delighted he has made the decision to come to Manchester and play his part in the club’s future. I’m looking forward to seeing him in action on our summer tour to America.”

Ander Herrera said: "Signing for Manchester United is a dream come true. I have played at Old Trafford for Athletic Club in the UEFA Europa League and it was one of the highlights of my career so far. I have joined United to do all I can to help the team reach the club's objectives. Having arrived on Tuesday, I’m excited to now be living in Manchester and I can’t wait for my first game in United’s famous red shirt. I will never forget my time with Athletic Club and I’d like to thank the fans and staff for all their support and, above all, wish all my fantastic former team-mates all the best for the future."

Smalling: Bring On New Season

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling says he is determined to cement a starting place for both club and country following England’s disappointing World Cup performance in Brazil.
Smalling was involved as the Three Lions were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Costa Rica, which was the 24-year-old’s only involvement in the competition after sitting out the preceding defeats to Italy and Uruguay.

Now safely back home in Manchester, United’s promising talent admits he is already looking forward to starting England’s Euro 2016 qualifying campaign in September and hopes a positive start to the season with the Reds will ensure his place in Roy Hodgson’s XI.

"Next season I will look to really kick on and cement my position," Smalling told TheFA.com, before England set off on their journey back to England. "It's the end of the season now, so obviously we will go on a break. But I feel that if I get my chance like I did against Costa Rica, I can go out there and deliver.

"Roy knows that I am a centre-back and I really want to cement a starting place and be that number one. Hopefully, if I can go back to my club in the summer and do that, I can hopefully cement it for England as well. I am ready for this chance and it is about time I took it."

Smalling was also quick to pay tribute to the English fans, who gave the squad backing throughout the Costa Rica game in Belo Horizonte and also at full-time, despite having no further matches to look forward to.

"It was a really touching moment that they were really right behind us at the end," he added. "Even when we got to the hotel in Belo Horizonte, they were cheering us all the way despite the disappointment. You could accept it if they turned on us but they didn't - they have been terrific all the way through. It was great to see and it will drive us on for next time to make sure we deliver.”

Ander Herrera: Man. United Confident Of Deal Despite Bilbao Rejection

Manchester United still expect to sign Athletic Bilbao midfielder Ander Herrera despite having a £29m bid rejected by the Spanish club.

United have met the release clause in Herrera's contract but Bilbao are thought to be reluctant to sanction the sale of a home-grown Basque player.

The Premier League club failed to buy the 24-year-old on transfer deadline day last summer but incoming United manager Louis van Gaal has revived the deal.

It had been anticipated United would complete the first signing of Van Gaal's reign this week.

However, the club are reluctant to put a timescale on the deal going ahead as they await developments in what they feel is a dispute between Bilbao-born Herrera and the La Liga outfit.

"Athletic want to announce that they have this week rejected an offer from Manchester United, of around 36m euros, for the transfer of the economic and federative rights of the player Ander Herrera," a statement read.

United will be keen for the transfer not to drag on too long, though, with pre-season training due to begin next month, and the club starting a tour of the United States on 18 July.

Until the arrival of Marouane Fellaini from Everton last summer, United had not signed a central midfield player for six years.

After the Belgian failed to score a single goal last season and Ryan Giggs retired to become Van Gaal's assistant, United are keen to strengthen in that area.

With winger Antonio Valencia and defender Patrice Evra both given contract extensions, Van Gaal, who is currently in charge of the Netherlands at the World Cup in Brazil, is already having an input into the squad.

As yet though, there has been no fresh bid for Southampton left-back Luke Shaw, who was the subject of an offer from United prior to England's World Cup campaign.

Man Utd's most expensive buys

£37.1m: Juan Mata (from Chelsea) 2014

£30.75m: Dimitar Berbatov (Tottenham) 2008

£29.1m: Rio Ferdinand (Leeds) 2002

£27.5m: Marouane Fellaini (Everton) 2013

£27m: Wayne Rooney (Everton) 2004

Alexander Buttner Signs For Dynamo Moscow

Dynamo Moscow have signed Manchester United left-back Alexander Buttner for an undisclosed fee.

The Dutchman, 25, has already joined up with his new club, although some technical details need to be resolved before the contract is finalised.

Buttner joined United from Vitesse Arnhem in 2012 but made only 13 Premier League appearances in two seasons.

"I want to play in the Champions League and win trophies. Dynamo are building a very strong team," Buttner said.
"I am sure that we will be good enough to try to win the league title this season."

Dynamo Moscow will play in the Europa League after finishing in fourth in the Russian league last season.

United's new boss, Louis van Gaal, has extended the contract of France left-back Patrice Evra, 33, while the club has been linked with England left-back Luke Shaw, 18.

Meanwhile, Van Gaal's first new signing is likely to be midfielder Ander Herrera from Athletic Bilbao.

Manchester United Closing On Transfer Of Athletic Bilbao Star Ander Herrera

Manchester United are in advanced talks with Athletic Bilbao over the transfer of Ander Herrera.

Sky sources understand United are prepared to match the £28million buyout clause in the midfielder’s contract.

United are aiming to get the deal - which would see Herrera sign a four-year contract - done by the end of this month as the buyout clause raises to £32m after July 1.

Herrera was the lynchpin of Bilbao's midfield last season as they finished in an impressive fourth place in La Liga.

He scored five goals in the campaign, but despite being one of the most impressive performers in domestic football, he is yet to break in to the Spain team.

David Moyes was reportedly targeting Herrera, 24, last summer, but failed to land the central midfielder. There were bizarre scenes in Spain when, on transfer deadline, three men claiming to be representing United tried to negotiate the deal at the Spanish Football Association headquarters. The negotiations broke down and it transpired that United knew nothing about the three men.

But Moyes' successor as Manchester United boss, Louis van Gaal, looks set to pull off the deal as he begins rebuilding the squad.

Herrera was born in Bilbao but came through the ranks at Real Zaragoza before joining his hometown club in 2011 on a five-year contract.

Sky Sports News reporter James Cooper said: "It is very, very close. It is a question of when, not if. It is more likely to be on Wednesday but Manchester United are very close to making their first signing of the summer and the first signing under Louis van Gaal.

"But Manchester United are proving they can go and get a player. It's a question of 'if at first you don't succeed, try, try, try again. Last summer there were some farcical scenes. Manchester United didn't match the buy-out clause. We saw the three stooges arrive at the Spanish FA headquarters - and the whole thing tumbled from there.

"United have their own lawyers on the case this time and they have met the buy-out clause. Now it's a medical and personal terms with the player, and the beginning of a new era at Manchester United.

"A £30m fee is a big fee perhaps for a player who is 24 years old but who has not played for the Spanish national team. He did play for the Olympic team in London in 2012. But Manchester United have started their transfer business - and there will be plenty more, I promise you that."

Southampton and England left-back Luke Shaw could be the next target - United have reportedly upped their offer for him to around £34m.

Giggs: Tour Games Tougher

Assistant manager Ryan Giggs discusses trips to the United States ahead of Manchester United's Tour 2014, presented by Aon...

What are the benefits of pre-season tours in the US?
There are lots of benefits. Obviously the facilities are good, all of the lads love going to the States because you can chill out in the day, do a bit of shopping and relax when you have a bit of downtime. You don’t get pestered like you might in other places.

Have you noticed a change in football's popularity in the US?
Yes I have. The popularity of football has got bigger and bigger in the US. I first went there with United eleven years ago and we have noticed that growth in popularity every time we have been back. We probably get more attention from the American media when we go there now and the stadiums are more often than not full. I think it is becoming more popular and more teams are going out there, which adds to it as well. Big teams as well!

Has the standard of the opposition changed too?
Yes, I have noticed that the quality in the MLS (Major League Soccer) teams has improved. Games against teams there have been getting tougher each time.

What are your memories of your first trip in 2003?
I really enjoyed that, the first time we had gone to the States as a club [in my time]. We stayed in Portland for 10 days where Nike’s headquarters are. We had a training camp there and a bit of downtime. We trained in the morning and afterwards we could go out in Portland, have a coffee and just relax – which was really good. We moved on to Chicago and played Juventus in New York. So we were going to great cities and places we had perhaps never been to before. I think all of the lads really enjoy going to the States.

What can you tell us about the training facilities you've seen at US sports clubs?
We have been lucky enough to train at the Philadelphia Eagles’ training ground and the Seattle Seahawks’ training ground, which was beautiful because it was right on the edge of a lake. The setting was brilliant but also the facilities were unbelievable. We have got great facilities ourselves at the Aon Training Complex but all of the time we are looking to develop and looking at other ideas that other teams and other sports have done to make ours better. We've definitely done that during trips to the States.

Tell us how pre-season training changed over the years... some people seem to think it's a case of run 10 miles, eat some pasta, and run some more!
No, it used to be like that, although maybe not as extreme! You didn’t see a football for the first four or five days. After six weeks off, it was just running. You had blisters, tight hamstrings and a bad back. Obviously, like everything, you learn from it and it evolves. Now, you do a little bit of running but you basically get your fitness from training and the games. That is another thing that has changed; the quality of the games has got better and it is a lot tougher to play pre-season matches now.

Fortune: Fans Can Feel Positive

Former Manchester United midfielder Quinton Fortune reacts to the 2014/15 fixtures release in our video above and, in the article below, gives us six reasons to relish the start of the new season...
1. The fightback starts with the very first game in August. The expectations for this club every season are to win the league and be in the Champions League. We're not in Europe this season and it's going to be strange. That should be the minimum aim: qualifying for Europe. Some people might say our start to the season is easy but the three promoted teams coming from the Championship are determined to have a good start and will give everything to make it difficult for us. I've never known an easy game at United. There's always pressure on the players to perform and you need to handle it to play here.

2. Louis van Gaal understands the Manchester United way. Everywhere he has been he has had success. I spoke to my former team-mate, Benni McCarthy, who played for him at Ajax, and he said he's very good - tactically one of the best managers he played for. It takes a lot to succeed at big clubs like Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich. He won't be fazed by United, even though for me this is different to any of those clubs. He's got the mentality, he'll give young players a chance and that's what this club is built on. There's a United way: attacking football, exciting football, giving young players a chance - hopefully he puts all that together and has success as quickly as possible.

3. A fit and firing Robin van Persie is an unbelievable bonus for the team. You see what he can do when he's fit and really enjoying his football with his brilliant headed goal against Spain at the World Cup. He's such an important player and to have that Dutch connection with the new manager is vital – you saw that relationship in the high-five celebration for his goal. But it's not all about Robin; we need that connection throughout the team to have a better chance of winning the league.

4. Ryan Giggs has the club in his blood. If I was Louis van Gaal I'd be picking Giggsy's brains because he's been here so many years, while Ryan couldn't have asked for a better manager to learn from. The players all respect Giggsy and if I was a player I'd ask him questions every day because of everything he has achieved. He's got to make the change from player to coach now. He won't be sat in the changing room. He's got to separate himself from that and it's not easy because he's been a player for 22 years. But Giggsy has a very strong mentality and will make that change quickly. He will want to learn as much as he can now because he could be the future manager of Manchester United.

5. Adnan Januzaj can be one of the top players in the game. He had an unbelievable start to life at United and now he's at his first World Cup, which will give him great experience. What he does next is down to him. He's a confident lad and everyone loves him at the club – he's the baby around the changing room but Giggsy and the rest of the guys will make sure he keeps his feet on the floor because they recognise the ability. He has to put his head down, work extremely hard and keep improving. Now it's the hard part: the second season is always tougher because people know what you can do but he can be a key player.

6. I can't wait for our first signing. Normally we do our business quietly and early. We're yet to sign anyone but behind closed doors I'm sure we'll be doing everything to bring new players in. I hear people say players won't come because we're not in the Champions League but Manchester United is big enough for players who want to play at the top level. You couldn't ask for a better club to play for. Louis van Gaal will have identified the players he wants and I hope we get our signings done as quickly as possible so we can get on with the football.

Valencia Signs New Contract

Manchester United is delighted to announce that Antonio Valencia has signed a new three-year contract with an option to extend until June 2018.
The Ecuadorian winger made his debut for the club in August 2009. Since then he has made 191 appearances, scoring 21 goals. He has won two Premier League titles and a League Cup winner's medal.

Assistant manager Ryan Giggs said: "I'm really pleased Antonio has signed a new contract. His contribution to the team since he joined the club in 2009 has been fantastic.

"Antonio is a very powerful player with great speed and versatility. He is very professional in his approach to training and I am delighted he has committed his future to the club."

Valencia said: "My time at Manchester United has been like a dream come true. To be the first Ecuadorian player to win the English Premier League was a very proud moment for me and for my country.

"I am so happy to have signed a new deal and am looking forward to working with Louis van Gaal. There is great team spirit within the club and we are all determined to get back to winning ways."

Fellaini Not Looking For A Route Out Of Manchester United

Marouane Fellaini admits his debut season at Manchester United was 'one to forget' but insists he is not looking for a move.

The Belgian midfielder arrived at Old Trafford last summer with a £27million price tag weighing heavy around his neck.

He struggled, along with many of his club colleagues, to produce his best in the 2013/14 campaign and saw David Moyes, a man who had taken him to Everton and United, relieved of his managerial duties in April.

Fellaini concedes things could not have gone much worse for him at a new employer, with injuries also preventing him from showing his true colours.

He has, however, made a bright start to Belgium’s World Cup campaign and says he will return to England after the tournament determined to prove his worth to new United boss Louis van Gaal.

Fellaini told Soccer News in his homeland: “Everybody knows my club season was one to forget. I’m the same Marouane.

“United signed me one year ago. There have been some positives and some negatives, like the bad injury I picked up. Also, our team didn’t quite click into place.

“But now we have a new manager, we’ll see what happens next season. In the meantime, I am concentrating on my national team.

“I don’t play here for a transfer. We’ll see with the new coach, but I still feel good at United.”

Manchester United's Use Of Marouane Fellaini Questioned

Jan Vertonghen says Marouane Fellaini's struggles at Old Trafford are of Manchester United's making.

The Belgium international was the subject of a high-profile transfer in the summer of 2013, with former Everton boss David Moyes returning to Goodison Park to raid the ranks.

Fellaini struggled to justify his hefty £27million price tag, though, and came under ever-increasing pressure as his form dipped and Moyes was ushered towards the exits.

He is, however, a proven Premier League performer and was among the goals again at the World Cup finals as his trademark header helped Belgium to a 2-1 victory over Algeria.

Vertonghen was not surprised to see the 26-year-old shine on the grandest of stages, but has warned United that they need to start playing to his strengths if they are to get the best out of him at club level.

The Tottenham Hotspur defender said: “Marouane always is very important for the Belgian team.

“I know there has been a lot of pressure on him from the fans in England, but in Belgium he always does well and scores goals.

“I’m very pleased for him and I gave him a little hug after the game because I know that goal meant a lot to him.

“Marouane is a very cool guy. The pressure doesn’t really bother him too much.

“We know how to use him and I don’t know whether they do in his other team.”

Manchester City skipper Vincent Kompany, another of Fellaini’s international colleagues, is also of the opinion that United need to give the tough-tackling midfielder more time in which to show his true colours.

He said: “Fellaini is a terrific player and any player in his first season at a new club, it can be tough.

“You have to grant players a couple of seasons before you can judge someone. For us, with Belgium, he has been doing it time and time again.

Buttner Ready To Quit Manchester United

Alexander Buttner is ready to quit Manchester United for Dinamo Moscow as he sees no future in England for him under Louis van Gaal.

The Dutch full-back has spent the last two years at Old Trafford, having been snapped up as cover for the experienced Patrice Evra in August 2012.

He has had to make do with sporadic outings in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, making a total of 28 appearances.

It appears as though his situation is unlikely to change any time soon, with incoming coach van Gaal a man who has consistently overlooked him while in charge of the Netherlands national side.

Buttner is reluctant to spend another year sat in the shadows and believes he has made the right decision in agreeing to take on a new challenge in Russia – with a medical having already been arranged.

The 25-year-old told De Telegraaf: “Van Gaal never gave me the chance in the Dutch national team, despite being voted man of the match 14 times at Manchester United.

“Apparently, he is not very confident about me. So I think this is the right moment to leave.”

Buttner’s agent Alexander Bursac has echoed those sentiments, telling Voetbal International: “Dinamo Moscow have big plans. Staying at Manchester United was never an option this summer.

“In the last two years van Gaal has ignored him again and again. What kind of outlook is that for him?”

Should Buttner complete a switch to Dinamo, he will be joining a side that could only muster a fourth-place finish in 2013/14 and will have to make do with Europa League football next term.

The former Vitesse Arnhem defender is, however, remaining upbeat, adding: “I am convinced that the club can now challenge for the championship and then move into the Champions League.”

Sneijder Would Consider Offer From Van Gaal

Wesley Sneijder admits he would find it tough to turn down an offer from Louis van Gaal to join him at Manchester United.

Van Gaal is set to take the reins at Old Trafford this summer once his involvement with the Dutch national team at the World Cup finals comes to a close.

As he prepares to return to club management, numerous high-profile names are being linked with moves to work under him.

Sneijder is among those to have figured prominently on United’s radar for some time – ever since he was pulling the strings at Inter Milan.

He is now on the books at Galatasaray and claims to be happy at the Turkish giants.

The 30-year-old playmaker is, however, a big fan of van Gaal and considers him to be among the finest tactical minds in the business.

It is for that reason that he has conceded that he would have to consider an approach from United’s new boss were one to be made in the upcoming transfer window.

Sneijder said while preparing himself for Holland’s next World Cup outing against Australia on Wednesday: “In the Netherlands, van Gaal is something like the head teacher of a school.

“Not everyone is lucky enough to get into his good books.

“He trains his players very hard and always expects the highest standards.

“I am happy at Galatasaray, I have established myself at the club and have settled in.

“However, if van Gaal were to make me an offer, I would have to at least consider it. Nobody from the Netherlands can simply reject van Gaal.”

Yorke: United Will Be Happy With Opening Fixtures

Former Old Trafford favourite Dwight Yorke thinks new Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal will be delighted with the opening fixtures that he has been handed next season.

United begin their Premier League campaign at home to Swansea before away fixtures against Sunderland and Burnley before welcoming QPR to Old Trafford.

But Yorke believes Van Gaal will have to strengthen his squad significantly if United are to mount a serious challenge for the Premier League title.

“You want a home game in your first game after being installed as Manchester United manager and he’s managed to get that against Swansea,” Yorke told Sky Sports News.

“I’m sure he will be excited and in general I think he will be delighted at the fact that he has got Swansea, Sunderland and Burnley.

“I think that they want to make sure that they try and win the Premier League next season and it’s going to be exciting to see who he brings into the football club.

“We’ve seen players leave the football club, we haven’t seen any player come in yet and until they do that I don’t think they have enough in their locker to really be competing with the likes of (Manchester) City and Chelsea, even Liverpool at this stage.”

Deja Vu For Season's Start

There is a sense of deja vu regarding some of the 2014/2015 fixtures, and the start of Louis van Gaal's reign at Manchester United feels a little closer this morning.
While we are all absorbed by the events at the World Cup in Brazil, the anticipation for the Dutchman to start his next job intensified following the release of the initial schedule (obviously subject to change due to television coverage).

David Moyes started the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era in the Barclays Premier League with a match against Swansea City and van Gaal will do the same, albeit at Old Trafford rather than the Liberty Stadium. A repeat of the 4-1 scoreline would be very welcome, but the Swans would knock United out of the FA Cup with a first-ever win at the Theatre of Dreams in January and that stung.

The second assignment is a visit to Sunderland, a familiar foe after four clashes last term. The record books will show two wins apiece but the Capital One Cup semi-final second leg obviously ended in elimination following a penalty shoot-out to forget. One side-note is Jozy Altidore, the Black Cats striker, played under van Gaal at AZ Alkmaar.

After the second round of this year's Capital One Cup, the journey to Burnley evokes memories of the defeat at Turf Moor, at a similarly early stage of the season, the last time the Clarets were promoted in 2009. Robbie Blake hit a spectacular winner and Michael Carrick missed a penalty so the Reds will be wary of the East Lancashire outfit causing another shock.

The first encounter with one of last term's top four is not until 25 October when Jose Mourinho comes to Manchester to pit his wits against the coach he worked under at Barcelona. A short drive across the city to face the champions at Etihad Stadium follows at the start of November. A Boxing Day meeting with Newcastle will hopefully be as exciting as the recent 4-3 festive win at Old Trafford when Javier Hernandez netted a dramatic late winner.

The inevitable tough spell, on paper, appears to be around mid-March to April with a run of fixtures against Tottenham, Liverpool, Aston Villa, City, Chelsea and Everton but the hope is, by then, van Gaal will have had time to work his magic and perfect his tactical masterplan. Furthermore, all but one of those clubs can expect to have the added, if much-missed, distraction of European football around that time.

The last home game of the season is against Arsene Wenger's Arsenal, as it was in 2009 when a goalless draw secured the league title. If the initial feeling was one of familiarity when seeing the fixture list for the first time, it was probably because the match that followed for Sir Alex's champions was at Hull City. Darron Gibson netted a wonder strike for a shadow side with one eye on the Champions League final at Barcelona.

So, in 2015, those two final fixtures will be identical to six years earlier with things rounded off at the KC Stadium against the FA Cup runners-up. Let's not heap too much pressure on our new boss but it's fair to say we can feel confident about the next campaign and excited by the dawn of a new era.

Credit: Manutd.com

United Can Hit Ground Running

Ex-Reds Danny Higginbotham and Quinton Fortune expect Manchester United to make a fast start to the 2014/15 campaign after seeing the fixtures released for the new season.
The Reds begin life under manager Louis van Gaal at home to Swansea City, and face all three promoted teams – Leicester City, Burnley and Queens Park Rangers – within the first five games of the new Barclays Premier League campaign.

"I think any United fan will be delighted with that start," former defender Danny Higginbotham told MUTV. "The first game is at home and you expect United, by then, to have new signings in and that allows them to bed in without playing Chelsea, Liverpool or City at the start. You've got the promoted teams when they're still on a crest of a wave but, all in all, the start of the season looks very promising.

"I think if you're going to win the Premier League or at least challenge for it, you have got to hit the ground running. It's a great opportunity, and Old Trafford will be absolutely buzzing for the first game."

United face last season's Championship winners and runners-up in their own stadiums, and Danny feels these will be the toughest tests of van Gaal's opening weeks in charge.

"It could be a bit of a roller-coaster as Leicester have not been in the Premier League for a long time and Burnley only stayed up one season. When United turn up, it's always a full house and they could be the two trickiest games of the opening six or seven."

Quinton Fortune agrees that the Reds must make the most of their chances, telling MUTV: "If you look at the fixtures, no disrespect to the other teams, but we should be getting maximum points from all the early games. Yes, it's difficult but we learned from last season we've got to beat everyone, even those that look easier on paper."

For Danny, another promising sign of United is the arrival of van Gaal. "The big thing with van Gaal coming to United is he's a winner," Danny added. "He's been a winner everywhere.

"He's a bit like Sir Alex, he seems to have an aura around him and takes no rubbish from anybody. He's what this football club needs, someone who has been there, done it and is in a similar mould to Ferguson. He's his own man and a great appointment.”

Fixtures 2014/15: OT Start For Reds

New Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal will face all three newly-promoted teams in the Barclays Premier League's opening five fixtures in 2014/15, while the Reds once again kick off the campaign against Swansea City, this time at Old Trafford.
It's a new season and a new era at United as van Gaal takes charge with Ryan Giggs as his assistant manager, and the action gets under way in just two months, with the season's curtain-raiser taking place on Saturday 16 August. Here's the full fixture list...

(Click to download)

All fixtures subject to change. Saturday matches may move to Sunday due to opponents' participation in the Europa League on the preceding Thursday.

Dutch View On Van Gaal

Ron Snellen, United fan and chairman of Dutch Mancunians supporters group, discusses Louis van Gaal's World Cup ambitions and the excitement around his countryman's impending tenure as Reds boss...

What's your view of Louis van Gaal as national team boss?
Well, he is very special! We will find that out in the next few years. He does what he thinks he has got to do and doesn't care about what people outside the club say or the way the press reacts. As a Dutchman, I'm interested in the World Cup but I'm more excited about what van Gaal does at United. I think he's the right man, in the right place at the right time for United. He likes to play attacking football, he's brilliant at giving chances to young players and that's exactly what we want to see at Old Trafford.
Does that mean you're willing the national team on to World Cup glory or are you thinking more about the impact on United?
[Laughs] As a United fan, I always want our players to do well wherever they play, but I'd like to see Robin have a few weeks' rest so he can return to United and have a great campaign without any of the injury problems he suffered last season. [Before the tournament] I said I'd settle for Holland going home after the first round... van Persie could take some time off, while van Gaal could have a rest and then focus on United. But I said that more as a United fan than a Dutch fan. Nothing is bigger or more important than United to me!

Is that a view shared by many Dutch Reds?
We have 500 members of the Dutch Mancunians and 35 or 40 of them are die-hard Reds who go home and away, following the team around the world. So those guys are only interested in United.

United fans will pay close attention to Louis van Gaal at the World Cup. Will we learn anything about what to expect at Old Trafford?
I don't think so because the Louis van Gaal of 20 years ago is the same Louis van Gaal today, just with more experience. For me, he's a bit like Jose Mourinho in terms of character. He likes to take on the press, but like Mourinho and like Sir Alex Ferguson, he's a manager who defends his players. He will make sure nobody harms the club or the players. Us fans like that. So I'm curious to see him as United boss and I'm also feeling confident about next season with him as our manager.

So, you think Louis van Gaal will be a success at United?
If he knew he didn't have a chance to develop something special at United and if he didn't have the opportunity to buy players and improve the squad, I don't think he'd have taken the job. That gives me confidence and he's coming to United at the right time because, in terms of how last season ended without any trophies and finishing outside the Champions League places, things can only get better.

As a Dutch United fan, are you excited about next season?
Like most fans, I didn't enjoy finishing behind City and Liverpool. But I've followed United since 1977 and I've seen tough times. The last 20 years we've won everything we could win, so it was a real change last season, but I'm already looking forward to us having our revenge. It will be difficult as Chelsea, City and Liverpool have all improved and they are buying quality players. We need to do the same, we need to be as strong as possible next season. That's why I'm looking forward to seeing van Persie and van Gaal at the World Cup, but I'm more excited about what they will do at United.

This interview first appeared in United Uncovered, the official weekly newsletter.

Van Gaal Set For 2014/15 Fixtures

Louis Van Gaal will discover the identity of his first competitive opponent as Manchester United manager on Wednesday when the 2014/15 Barclays Premier League fixtures are released at 09:00 BST.
The incoming Reds boss is currently occupied leading his Netherlands team's tilt at World Cup glory in Brazil but, with less than two months until the start of the club season on 16 August, his first competitive match with United will soon be upon us.

Traditionally a huge day for supporters, it signals the onset of the next campaign and offers fans a chance to assess key matches whilst also looking forward to what will hopefully be an exciting new era under the stewardship of van Gaal and his assistant, Ryan Giggs.

United have an impressive curtain-raiser record throughout the Premier League's 22-year history, with 14 victories, four draws and just four defeats.

As well as looking out for all the key clashes with our rivals, fans will also be hoping for the first match to be at Old Trafford, having been drawn away for the last three seasons.

Butt Wants To Become A Manager

Nicky Butt is keen to take the step up into club management and has already turned down job offers from three teams.

The former Manchester United midfielder, who is currently at the helm of the Old Trafford outfit’s reserve side, admits he is waiting for the ideal role to come along.

Butt insists he will not take too many risks with his first appointment as he is well aware of the volatile nature of football management.

And the ex-England international has warned prospective employers that ‘a lot of boxes would have to be ticked’ to tempt him away from the Premier League club.

Butt, speaking at the Guinness storehouse in Dublin, told the Daily Star Sunday: “There are lots of jobs around but why would I go somewhere for the sake of it?

“At Manchester United, I live 10 minutes from the training ground, work with people who respect me and I am happy to be at a great club.

“So why would I give that up to join a club where people don’t know me, who may not have as much respect for me and where I would run the risk of being sacked after six months?

“If I was to go somewhere, it would have to be a club where I will trust people, trust the owner, the players and the scouts.

“There are a lot of boxes that would have to be ticked. I don’t want to dive into any old job.

“I have had plenty of informal chats with clubs and have sat down and told them my philosophy. My attitude is that if they like me, great. But if not then that club is not the place for me.

“At some point I will have to take a risk but it has got to be the right risk, a calculated decision.

“I have been offered three jobs but didn’t like the people I spoke to.

“I didn’t like the way they were speaking about their previous managers and that turned me off.”

De Gea Excited About Van Gaal

Goalkeeper David de Gea says he is excited about the change and innovation that new manager Louis van Gaal will bring to Manchester United.

De Gea, 23 and currently part of Spain’s World Cup squad in Brazil, established himself as the number one at Old Trafford under both Sir Alex Ferguson and David Moyes.

Spain clash with Van Gaal’s Netherlands in their Group B opener in Salvador de Bahia on Friday and De Gea has part of his mind set on what pre-season will be like under the current Dutch head coach.

He said: "He has won everything as a coach. He’s very good and I think he's going to bring a lot to Manchester United.

“He will bring important and innovative ideas and I think he's going to be very good for us. He's going to help us a lot because he's going to bring a different style of play.

"England is a great place to play football, the fans respect you a lot. It's wondrous."

As Spain’s third-choice keeper, De Gea is unlikely to come up personally against Netherlands striker Robin van Persie in their opening World Cup game.

But De Gea revealed he has been discussing the game with his United team-mate.

"I've sent him the odd message. He's a great player and we'll have to follow him closely. I hope that he has a quiet game,” he said.

Bastian Schweinsteiger In Manchester United Link

Sky Bet have slashed the odds on Manchester United signing Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger this summer following a run of bets on Friday.

The online bookmaker reported the stakes on the back of press speculation that the Germany international is the number one target of new manager Louis van Gaal.

Schweinsteiger previously worked with Van Gaal during the Holland manager’s tenure at Bayern Munich, with the pair enjoying a domestic double and a Champions League final run in 2009/10.

The 29-year-old is thought to be open to a move away from the Allianz Arena, although United are considered the only likely suitors in the betting.

Sky Bet’s Head of Football Trading Paul Wiggins said: “We’ve seen a flurry of bets on United signing Schweinsteiger this summer on the back of widespread speculation that he is Van Gaal’s primary target.

“It remains to be seen whether it is merely punters following the news or whether it is genuinely informed money, but we’ve been forced to cut his price significantly, having offered 5/2 on Friday morning.

“There seems to be little competition for his services at the moment, with Monaco next in the betting at 16/1 and attracting very little interest.”

Credit: Skysports.com

RVP Full Of Ambition

Robin van Persie insists he is still striving to improve as he prepares to lead the Netherlands into World Cup combat.

Ahead of the eagerly-anticipated tournament in Brazil, the 30-year-old discussed his career at length in an exclusive in-depth interview with the new issue of Inside United, the official club magazine.

Van Persie will be working under Dutch coach Louis van Gaal before linking up again with United's new manager in Manchester and he is determined to keep pushing himself towards perfection. With Holland taking on Spain on Friday in arguably the pick of the group stage fixtures, the scene is set for the prolific marksman to prove his status as one of the leading centre-forwards on the planet.

"I have the best job in the world," he enthused. "I started playing football because I loved the game, and nothing's changed: I'm still in love with football and that's what gets me out of bed in the morning.

"I still love the challenge of going out on the training ground and improving my game, seeing if I can get better. I don't know what my maximum is, but I'm always striving to be better than I have been before.

"Ideally, I want to play until I'm 40 - maybe I can even stretch that to 42 - but that's what I want because this is what I love doing and it's what I've done my whole life.

"I want to stretch out this experience as long as possible because I like it so much. My goal is to play 22 years of professional football and I want to experience as many good moments as I can."

Onuoha Backs Ferdinand For QPR

QPR defender Nedum Onuoha has admitted that he would like to see Rio Ferdinand join the newly-promoted side this summer.

Ferdinand is available as a free agent after being released by Manchester United at the end of the season, but is currently on media duties at the World Cup in Brazil.

The 35-year-old was limited to 23 appearances in all competitions during the last campaign and was allowed to leave following 12 years at Old Trafford, in which he won 10 major trophies.

Following their return to the top-flight, QPR are among the clubs that Ferdinand has been linked with and a move would see him reunite with the manager who handed him his professional debut at West Ham, Harry Redknapp.

Redknapp will be looking to strengthen his squad over the summer and Onuohu believes that Ferdinand is the type of player that has what is required.

"Someone like that - his track record speaks for itself and having played a good few games for Man U this year, and coming from there you would like to think you can pretty much play anywhere," he told Get West London.

Meanwhile, Ferdinand insists that he has no plans for retirement with a number of offers already presented to him.

"It’s feasible that in the coming weeks, perhaps even while I’m in South America, I’ll make a decision about the next stage in my career, and when that happens I’ll tell you about it," he said.

"But I have options on the table from several clubs in England and overseas for next season and I’m intending to play on if the right situation arises.

"There is, in all honesty, nothing settled yet. Whatever I do next has to be right for me and my family and I’m going to take it one season at a time.

"I’m keeping myself fit and in shape, doing my running and my workouts, so I’ll be ready for whatever new club I join."

Fletcher Will Be Fit For Tour

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher has recovered from a fractured toe sustained in the final Barclays Premier League game of the 2013/2014 season at Southampton.

The Scotland international suffered the injury during the draw at St Mary's, despite completing the full 90 minutes, but it has since healed and the 30-year-old is able to continue to keep fit over the summer.

Contrary to some reports, Fletcher will be ready for full training ahead of Tour 2014, presented by Aon, and will be out to impress new manager Louis van Gaal when he takes over the role after the World Cup.

The Reds fly out to the United States next month and kick off the pre-season campaign with a match against LA Galaxy in the Chevrolet FC Cup in Pasadena on 23 July.

Rooney Hits Back At Scholes

Wayne Rooney says Paul Scholes upset a lot of people at Manchester United when he suggested the England striker was past his best.

Scholes played alongside Rooney for nine years at Old Trafford but recently claimed the 28-year-old's powers may be on the wane.

Rooney says he found Scholes' comments "strange", especially when the former midfielder was part of the United coaching staff towards the end of last year.

But the England forward is happy that United's hierarchy, who handed him a new deal last season, do not share Scholes' opinion.

"I'm sure he's upset a lot of people at Man United because they see me as worthy of signing a new deal at the club, so they obviously have got a different opinion to what Paul has," Rooney said.

England captain Steven Gerrard hit out at Scholes for his comments, which came out the week Roy Hodgson's men began their World Cup preparations, but Rooney has refused to publicly criticise Scholes.

"It was a bit strange, I'll be honest, but he has his opinions and he's entitled to them," Rooney added.

"I don't agree with it, but he's probably the best player I've ever played with, so I'm not going to knock him as a player, but I don't agree with his point.

"I'm sure he has his reasons for it."

When asked if Scholes had been in touch with him to explain his comments, Rooney said: "No. He's been a great player at Man United, but I've never had his phone number and he's never had mine."

Fletcher Facing Surgery And May Miss Manchester United Pre-season

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher may need surgery on a toe he broke in the last game of last season and could miss the start of pre-season under new manager Louis van Gaal.

The Scotland captain will see a specialist this week and could be out for at least a month if he needs an operation.

Any absence would be another blow for the 30-year-old who only returned to first team action at the turn of the year after a lengthy lay-off due to a bowel problem.

He is desperate to get a full close season under his belt after making a full recovery from ulcerative colitis which had threatened to end his career and troubled him for more than two years.

Fletcher made 12 appearances after his return in December, including the 1-1 final day draw at Southampton. He started and finished the game and was only made aware of the broken toe after the match.

Manchester United medical staff and doctors decided the injury did not need surgery initially but the toe has been slow to heal and the club and player want a fresh opinion to decide if an operation is necessary.

The Giggs Story: 2011 To 2014

Ryan Giggs' illustrious playing career finally came to an end following the end of the 2013/14 season. The concluding three years of this epic tale helped cement his stature in the game but also teed up an exciting new chapter in his life.

While United ended the 2011/12 season empty-handed, the Ryan Giggs story rolled on and on. Even more milestones were passed and the Welshman continued to be a vital cog in the machine although, with the surprising return of Paul Scholes in mid-season, he did not have the term ‘elder statesman’ all to himself. Before that, Ryan’s goal against Benfica in the Champions League had seen the then-37-year-old break his own record as the competition’s oldest scorer. Although used more sparingly, the veteran was good enough to start in big games like the Manchester derby in the FA Cup when Scholes came out of retirement. Ryan marked his 900th United appearance in style, grabbing a late winner at Norwich in a man-of-the-match performance. Indeed the displays of Giggs and Scholes (combined age: 75) at Carrow Road prompted Sir Alex Ferguson to tell MUTV they were, "the best players this club has ever had". Another special moment in the veteran’s storied career came during the London Olympics when he led out Great Britain's football team, appropriately enough at his beloved Old Trafford. He scored in the second match, against UAE, and although Team GB bowed out in the quarter-finals to Korea Republic, it had still been a great experience. Giggs 2011/12: 22 (11) games, 4 goals.

The records continued to tumble in the 2012/13 campaign, with Giggs winning yet another Premier League winners’ medal - his 13th, unlucky for his long-suffering opponents. In a single-minded pursuit of a 20th title, United brushed off all challenges, and Ryan’s opening goal in a 2-0 win over Everton in February put the Reds 12 points clear at the top. It also ensured he had scored in 23 consecutive league campaigns. While he continued to defy the years, United defied the critics who had questioned the squad's quality by finishing with 11 more points than local rivals Manchester City. With the championship in the bag, Sir Alex Ferguson called time on his Old Trafford reign after 26 years - astonishingly 22 of these had featured Ryan Giggs as a first-team player. Surely not even the managerial genius could have predicted that the 17-year-old Welsh winger he pitched into his team in March 1991 would still be going strong over two decades later. Giggs 2012/13: 18 (14) games, 5 goals.

The curtain finally came down on Giggs' playing career at the end of the 2013/14 season, but not, perhaps, in the way he or many observers would have imagined. Appointed player-coach by Sir Alex's successor David Moyes, he was still a key member of the squad as he proved by turning in an influential performance from central midfield in the 5-0 demolition of Bayer Leverkusen in November two days before his 40th birthday. Ryan proved to be the man to turn to when the chips were down in Europe yet again when a two-goal deficit was overturned at Old Trafford against Olympiacos. He pulled the strings to seal passage to yet another Champions League quarter-final, but when the club parted company with Moyes soon after, it called on the most decorated player in its history to guide the team through to the end of a difficult season. The last playing hurrah was a 20-minute cameo against Hull City, but aside from his own display, which included a near-miss from a brilliant free-kick, Giggs’ goodbye was marked by his willingness to hand debuts to teenagers James Wilson and Tom Lawrence. Having been given the chance at a young age himself, it seemed apt that he should pass the torch on to a new generation at the end of a playing career like no other. Giggs 2013/14: 15 (7) games, 0 goals.

Robson: RvP Has Years Left

United legend Bryan Robson feels Robin van Persie should look to follow Teddy Sheringham's example if he wants to continue playing for another decade.

Inspired by working alongside Ryan Giggs, the Netherlands striker has outlined a clear goal to prolong his career and feels he has many years left at the top as he approaches his 31st birthday.

"I want to play as long as possible for the national team," Robin revealed this week, ahead of skippering his country at the World Cup finals. "If my body allows it, I'd like to play until I am 40."

Robson, who played for Middlesbrough just 10 days before turning 40 in 1997, has suggested van Persie could emulate ex-United striker Sheringham, who remains is the oldest outfield player to appear in the Barclays Premier League at 40 years and 270 days.

"A player like Robin van Persie can do it with the way he looks after himself," Robson told ManUtd.com. "All he can do is look at the likes of Teddy Sheringham. Being a centre-forward, it is a little bit more difficult to play to the level they set themselves until the age of 40 but Sheringham proved you can be capable of doing that if you are determined enough."

Robson is adamant some footballers are written off too early and stresses there is plenty of evidence to support his case.

"People in the press often go on about players being too old as soon as they get to 30," he stated. "I can always remember that I left United when I was 38. I won a couple of titles, the European Cup Winners’ Cup, the FA Cup, and so I can never believe in this talk. If you a determined, like a Ryan Giggs, you can extend your career.

"If you look at Steven Gerrard’s performance for Liverpool at Old Trafford last season, it shows these players should never believe what the media is saying. As soon as somebody in their thirties has one bad game, it’s always a case of him being too old. As a former player myself, I certainly don’t believe that."

Rafael: Roma Test Will Help Us

Rafael says the players' fitness during Tour 2014, presented by Aon, will be aided by playing in Denver when Manchester United take on AS Roma.
The 26 July fixture forms part of the International Champions Cup and will be played at Sports Authority Field which stands at 5,280 feet above sea level.

Rafael has played at a similar altitude before and says it's definitely a challenging experience.

Speaking to ManUtd.com before the end of the season, the Brazilian said: "It’s so, so hard! When people watch on TV they must think ‘ah it’s okay, it’s not difficult,’ but I tell you it’s hard. You can’t breathe properly.

"It will definitely really help us with our fitness. Just look at Antonio [Valencia]. From playing in Quito [Ecuador's capital], you can see how much energy he has on the pitch and all the running he does – that’s how it helps. So playing at high altitude in Denver will be good for us."

While Rafael unfortunately missed out on selection for the World Cup in his native Brazil, it means he can focus fully on being ready for the new era at Old Trafford, beginning with next month's trip to the United States. The first few fixtures under incoming manager Louis van Gaal will also include meetings with European Cup holders Real Madrid and the Champions League winners of 2010, Inter Milan.

"It will be fantastic to play against such historic teams during our tour. Everyone will want to play in those matches," added Rafael, who'll turn 24 shortly before the trip.

"Pre-season is so important. It means everything to your season – if it goes well and you have a good pre-season it can mean you are set up for the rest of the season with your fitness.

"It’s always good to have everyone together and to train hard and enjoy the trip as well. We always look forward to going to the States."

United's fixtures in the States
Tour 2014 presented by Aon

23 Jul v LA Galaxy
26 Jul v AS Roma
29 Jul v Inter Milan
2 Aug v Real Madrid

Reds Agree Cho-A Pharm Deal

Manchester United has today (Monday) announced a multi-year sponsorship deal with Korean pharmaceutical company Cho-A Pharm to become the club's Official Pharmaceuticals Partner in Korea and Vietnam.

The partnership will see club imagery placed on Cho-A Pharm’s diverse range of products, including nutritional and dietary supplements, as well as over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.

Through this relationship, Cho-A Pharm will introduce various integrated marketing and social initiatives in Korea and Vietnam. With a joint desire to promote youth football in the area, Cho-A and United will collaborate closely in various activities, including the Manchester United Soccer School programme, to teach young people to 'play the Manchester United way'.

Cho-A Pharm, which celebrates its 26th anniversary this year, produces over 200 products, exporting to more than 20 countries. Domestically, Cho-A’s products are distributed by MediPharm, the company’s wholly-owned subsidiary and the biggest pharmacy chain in South Korea, with a network of over 1,000 outlets.

United's Group Managing Director Richard Arnold said: "With an on-going commitment to product innovation, coupled with a desire to be an industry-thought leader, Cho-A is a market leader in Korea and Vietnam.

"Cho-A has impressive plans to globalise its business and a commitment to empowering aspiring footballers in the two markets through the partnership with Manchester United. With over 40 million Manchester United followers in South Korea and Vietnam, Cho-A gives us another fantastic opportunity to engage our fans in the region."

Seong-Hwan Cho, President and CEO of Cho-A Pharm Co. Ltd, said: "Cho-A is proud to be partnering with Manchester United, one of the most prestigious football clubs in the world. We look forward to generating consumers’ interest in our brand and products by leveraging Manchester United’s strong global brand equity."

Young Answers Fan's Questions

Ashley Young recently spoke to 12th Man, the magazine for Manchester United season-ticket holders, with fan Vorapoj Khongpol posing the questions...

Who is your favourite player of all time?
Ian Wright. I always used to watch him when I was growing up and he was somebody that I looked up to. His attitude towards the game was fantastic.

Who were your childhood team?
I used to watch a lot of football when I was growing up and you always remember waiting every Saturday for Match of the Day to start! Because I looked up to Ian Wright, I watched Arsenal quite a bit but, when you get that little bit older, you concentrate on your own career.

Which is your favourite position to play in?
I like to play on the left side. As a right-footed player, you can cut inside, have a shot and link up with the midfielders and forwards. As long as I'm in the team and helping us get the results we want, then it doesn't matter if it's on the left, right or just off the striker. I am quite a versatile player, wherever I'm picked I go out and give 110 per cent.

Who's the toughest defender you've ever had to play against?
I'd have to go for Wes Brown. He has everything a centre-back needs - strength, pace and the ability to tackle - and he is still a top, top player at Sunderland. He was really tough to play against in training sessions with England so I was always happy to have him on my team. He was a great guy in the England dressing room too.

How do you prepare yourself for a big game?
I have one or two pre-match rituals. I always put everything on left-side first. So I put my left sock on first, my left leg into my shorts, my left boot on and then my left arm into my shirt first. It's something I've always done and it's stuck with me.

I'm quite relaxed before games and I like to listen to music but I'm always focused on what we need to do. As soon as the whistle goes, I'm ready.

What's been your favourite Manchester United moment so far?
Winning the league - 100 per cent. What a feeling that was - especially with it being the club's 20th title. For me, that's why I joined this club - to win titles and that's why we're so disappointed with how it went this season. We want to kick on next season and get back to challenging on all fronts.

What do you think you'll do when you retire from playing?
Hopefully, I'm a long way off retiring yet! [laughs] It's not something you think about as you're concentrating so much on the season you are in. Maybe in a few years, I will start to look at that but, at the moment, I'm always thinking about the next game and how we can prepare and focus ourselves on getting a good result.

Do you like to cook and if so, what's your speciality dish?
[Laughs] Well, I try! I have a family so it's about cooking for the kids first and then looking after myself afterwards. As a footballer, your diet is important so I tend to cook a lot of chicken and pasta, quite simple, but I'd say that's what I am best at.

Where is your favourite holiday destination?
I'd go for Dubai. I've been quite a lot over the past few years and there's always nice weather and nice restaurants. It's got everything you need, it's really enjoyable to be able to relax and take stock, especially after a difficult season. You have a few days where you switch off but then your thoughts are looking ahead to the new season and being successful again.

Luke Shaw: I Want To Join Manchester United

England full-back Luke Shaw told Southampton on the final day of the Premier League season that he wanted to join Manchester United.

The 18-year-old defender spoke to the Saints hierarchy at an event held at a hotel following the 1-1 home draw with United on 11 May.

By that time, United had already made a £27m offer for the left-back.

Southampton will not consider allowing any more of their players to leave until a new manager is appointed.

England striker Rickie Lambert has already been sold to Liverpool, while club captain Adam Lallana has been the subject of multiple bids from the Anfield club.

Saints hope to appoint a successor to manager Mauricio Pochettino, who joined Tottenham in late May, within the next 10 days, with former Dutch international Ronald Koeman a leading candidate for the post.

Shaw, though, has made his intentions clear.

The youngster had been asked to clarify his future quickly, with England manager Roy Hodgson making it clear he wanted squad members to sort out proposed transfers before the World Cup begins on 12 June.

Southampton, however, will only sell if the circumstances are right.

Wilson Eyes Aerial Progress

James Wilson is hoping to score more headed goals next season after being praised by coach Nicky Butt for his aerial prowess.
Butt, who was in charge of the UEFA Youth League side captained by the striker last term, was filmed by ITV's Life of Ryan documentary discussing the teenager's merits ahead of his dream two-goal debut against Hull City in May.

"Wilson is unbelievable in the six-yard box," commented Butt. "He's got the best standing spring you've ever seen in your life."

The leading Under-21s scorer noticeably put his aerial ability to good use in a defensive capacity as the campaign wore on but only one of his impressive haul of 24 goals was a header - which came in a 2-1 defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk's Under-19s in Ukraine.

"I was first put in there in pre-season at the near post," he explained to ManUtd.com, when discussing defending set-pieces. "Like Robin van Persie does for the first team.

"I shied away from a couple in the friendlies and they criticised me for that. Obviously, the coaches continued to put me there and I’ve worked on it a bit and have found myself clearing a lot more balls.

"In terms of the other end, I can only remember one headed goal all season, at Shakhtar Donetsk. I’ve got an alright leap and I can flick on goal-kicks and do well defensively. Attacking-wise, it seems to have not been falling for me but I don’t know why I haven't scored many headers. Hopefully, that will change."

Reds Reach 50m On Facebook

Manchester United are today celebrating the landmark achievement of reaching 50 million followers on Facebook – the fastest of any sports organisation on the planet to do so.

Launched in July 2010, Manchester United's Facebook page has become an essential destination for tens of millions of United fans around the globe as the place to get all the latest club news and content, and to engage directly with the club and fellow supporters.

With a truly worldwide fanbase, United can call on support from all corners of the planet including countries such as Brazil, Indonesia, Egypt and the United Kingdom, all represented in the ten largest Manchester United Facebook follower territories.

To mark this momentous achievement the club is embarking on a series of initiatives on its page to thank fans including celebratory videos, legendary images and an inspirational and eye-catching mosaic which fans are being encouraged to sign up to be part of.

Manchester United's Group Managing Director, Richard Arnold, said: "This is a fantastic achievement and one that the club is extremely proud of. Our millions of passionate fans around the world help to preserve Manchester United's status as a global leader and innovator in its field.

"With this in mind, we are constantly looking how we can improve and expand our offering to our fans, making sure that as many of our 659 million followers across the globe can get ever closer to the club they love."

This latest Facebook milestone now takes Manchester United's fanbase to 65 million followers across social media platforms that also include Twitter, Google+, Instagram and Chinese channels Sina and Tencent Weibo, amongst others.

Earlier this year, Manchester United and Google+ embarked on a world-first effort to give fans the opportunity to cheer on the team virtually, appearing via a live Google+ Hangout - the free, multi-person video call feature – on Old Trafford's pioneering digital hoardings.

Sir Alex Ferguson's Wine Collection Sells For £400K

The second part of Sir Alex Ferguson's wine collection amassed during his reign at Manchester United has raised nearly £400,000 at a London auction.

Auction house Christie's said 140 lots from the Sir Alex Ferguson CBE Collection made £398,818 ($673,000).

A magnum of Domaine de la Romanee-Conti 2002 Burgundy fetched £16,450.

It was the second of three auctions of wine from the former Manchester United boss' collection following one in Hong Kong last month which fetched £2.2m.