United.

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Palmeiras Cocky Ahead of Final

Palmeiras Feels This is the Team to Upset United and Win the Club World Cup

By Felix Short | February 5, 2023, 7:00 AM

Palmeiras' star-studded 16-year-old has had a big impact so far. (Michael Bradley/Manchester Guardian)

Mexico City, Mexico – The atmosphere in the Palmeiras camp is electric as the Brazilian side prepares for the Club World Cup final against Manchester United. With commanding performances in their first two games, including a dominant 5-1 win over Seattle Sounders in the semi-finals, the South American champions are oozing with confidence ahead of the highly-anticipated final.

Palmeiras' coach, Abel Ferreira, has been vocal about his team's chances, stating that they are "ready to face any team in the world." The Portuguese tactician has masterminded an unbeaten run in the tournament so far, with his side scoring an impressive nine goals in just two games.

The Palmeiras players themselves have also been unapologetically cocky in the build-up to the final. Speaking to reporters, goalkeeper Weverton confidently stated that they will "beat Manchester United and prove that South American football is the best." Meanwhile, attackers Rony and Dudu have promised to wreak havoc on United's defense with their pace and skill.

One player who has caught the eye of many is Palmeiras' 16-year-old wonderkid, Endrick. The youngster has been a revelation in the tournament, scoring two goals and providing an assist in his two appearances so far. His composure on the ball, intelligence and ability to beat defenders has left many pundits and fans alike in awe.

While Palmeiras are brimming with confidence, Manchester United manager Thomas Walker remains unfazed by their opponents' bravado. "We know they're a good team, but we have the quality to beat them," he said in a press conference.

United will be looking to their experienced stars to lead the way, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Marcus Rashford and David De Gea expected to play crucial roles in the final. The Red Devils will also be boosted by the return of Julián Álvarez, who missed the semi-final clash against Club América due to injury.

Despite their injuries and the absence of key players, United will be buoyed by their own quality form in the tournament. They have shown great resilience and determination in their victories over Ulsan Hyundai and Club América, battling through tough games to secure their spot in the final.

The final promises to be an exciting and closely-contested affair, with both teams possessing an array of attacking talent. While Palmeiras may be the underdogs, they have shown that they are more than capable of causing an upset, and Manchester United will need to be at their very best if they are to lift the Club World Cup trophy.

Whatever the outcome, the final is sure to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams eager to claim the title of world champions. Manchester United will be hoping to add to their already impressive trophy cabinet, while Palmeiras will be looking to make history by becoming the first South American side to lift the Club World Cup since Corinthians in 2012.

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van de Beek out for Final

The Dutch midfielder was injured in United's thrilling comeback against Club América

By Felix Short | February 6, 2023, 7:00 AM

van de Beek has played the best football of his United career in recent months. (Michael Bradley/Manchester Guardian)

Mexico City, Mexico – Manchester United's Donny van de Beek suffered a knee injury in their recent Club World Cup match against Club América. The 25-year-old midfielder was tackled by Bruno Valdés in the 65th minute and immediately signaled to the bench for a substitution. United went on to win the match 2-1, but the victory was overshadowed by the injury to van de Beek.

The Dutchman has been in excellent form this season and has been a key player for United in recent months. He arrived at Old Trafford from Ajax in the summer of 2020 but struggled to find his feet in his first two seasons. However, this campaign has been a different story, with van de Beek finally showing the kind of form that made him one of Europe's most sought-after midfielders.

Despite not becoming a consistent starter until December, van de Beek has managed to score four goals and provide six assists in just 1,501 minutes of action across 21 games in all competitions. His performances have earned praise from United manager Thomas Walker, who has been impressed with the midfielder's work rate and ability to create chances.

"Donny has been excellent for us this season," said Walker. "He's been working hard in training and his performances on the pitch have been top-notch. It's a shame that he's picked up an injury, but we hope to have him back as soon as possible."

Van de Beek's injury comes at a bad time for United, who are set to face Palmeiras in the Club World Cup final. The Brazilian side has been in scintillating form in the tournament so far, scoring a total of nine goals in their two matches. They defeated Al Ahly 4-0 in the opener and then thrashed Seattle Sounders 5-1 in the semi-final.

Palmeiras' impressive form has made them one of the favorites to lift the trophy, and they are clearly very confident heading into the final. United will have to be at their best if they want to overcome the Brazilian champions, and the loss of van de Beek will certainly be a blow to their chances.

However, United have plenty of quality in their squad, and they will be hoping that their other midfielders can step up in van de Beek's absence. Renato Sanches, Fred, Amad, and Scott McTominay are all capable of making an impact in the middle of the park, and they will need to be on top form if United are to lift the Club World Cup trophy.

Despite the injury setback, United will be determined to put in a strong performance in the final and bring some silverware back to Old Trafford. The Club World Cup is a prestigious competition, and United will be eager to add it to their list of honors. However, they will need to be wary of the threat posed by Palmeiras, who have been the standout team of the tournament so far. It promises to be an intriguing final, and United will need to be at their best if they want to come out on top.

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United's New Approach to Loaning Youth

By Oliver Lewis February 7, 2023 132


MANCHESTER, ENG - Manchester United has always been known for its commitment to developing young talent, but this year the club has taken a more nuanced and involved approach to loaning out their players. This new strategy involves deeper analytical thinking about the loan team, better relationships with the staff at the loan club, and more individualized plans for each player both before they go out on loan and during their loan spell.

The results have been impressive. Several young United players have had extraordinary success on loan this season, including goalkeeper Bruno Schmitt at Swansea City, Zidane Iqbal at Lincoln City, and Will Fish at S****horpe United. The club is also happy with how Shola Shoretire and Teden Mengi are doing at Derby County, Björn Hardley is doing at Oxford United, Álvaro Fernández at Accrington Stanley, and Ethan Laird at QPR. Ove Hanssen is also gaining valuable experience at UD Ibiza, and midfielder Godwin Bada and forward Joe Hugill are impressing at Sunderland and Newport County, respectively.

"We've learned a lot over the years about what works and what doesn't work when it comes to loaning out our players,” said United’s Academy Director Nick Cox.” This season, we've really taken a deeper analytical approach to finding the right clubs and the right environments for each player."

But what sets Manchester United's loan strategy apart is their commitment to not letting a bad loan linger. Poor decisions that led Di’Shon Bernard to Nottingham Forest, Dylan Levitt to Cardiff City, and Charlie Savage to Crewe Alexandra were all corrected when the January transfer window opened, and the club found those players better options rather than ignore them for the year.

Manchester United's approach to loaning out young players is based on deeper analytical thinking about the loan club. This involves researching the loan club's style of play, looking at the league and the competition level, and identifying the areas where the player can develop their skills. The club also takes a more individualized approach, working with each player to create a development plan tailored to their needs.

In addition to the analytical work, Manchester United is building stronger relationships with the staff at the loan club. This involves regular communication between the loan manager, the player, and the loan club staff to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Nick Cox also visits the loan club regularly to see how the player is progressing and to provide support and advice where needed.

"We've also worked hard to establish better relationships with the staff at the loan clubs,” Cox mentioned. “It's not just about sending a player out on loan and hoping for the best. We want to be more involved in their development, even when they're playing for another team."

The hard work that goes into Manchester United's loan strategy has not gone unnoticed. United loanees are considered some of the hardest working of the loanees of big six clubs, especially in comparison to the cocky kids that come out of the Chelsea and Manchester City academy. United's loaned players are known for their discipline, dedication, and willingness to work hard to improve their game.

In the past, United players on loan may have been left to fend for themselves, but now they have a strong support system in place. This approach is paying dividends, as United's young players are gaining valuable experience and developing their skills in a way that wouldn't be possible if they were stuck on the bench at Old Trafford.

One player who has benefited from United's loan strategy is midfielder Godwin Bada. He has impressed at Sunderland in his first few weeks, where he has already become an integral part of the team. Bada credits United's loan strategy for his success, saying, "The loan manager has been great. He has been in regular contact with me and the staff at Sunderland. We have a development plan in place, and I feel like I am improving every day."

Forward Joe Hugill, who joined Newport County at the end of January, is also thriving on loan for the Welsh side. He has scored two goals in his first three games, and his performances have caught the eye of United fans. Hugill says he is grateful for the opportunity to play regular football, and he credits United's loan strategy for his success.

"Ultimately, our goal is to help these young players reach their full potential and hopefully come back to Manchester United as better players and better people,” Cox added.

When Manchester United's loanees return to the club after a successful season out on loan, they can expect a warm welcome and the opportunity to prove themselves at the senior level. The club values the experiences their young players gain on loan, and they will have a chance to showcase their development during preseason and training sessions.

Manchester United has long shown a willingness to integrate their academy players into the first team, as evidenced by the likes of Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, Mason Greenwood, Hannibal Mejbri, Axel Tuanzebe, Anthony Elanga, and a long list of others, who all progressed through the youth ranks and are now important members of the senior squad. Therefore, returning loanees will have a genuine chance to compete for a place in the team, and potentially, to make a long-term impact at the club.

(Photos by Holly Richardson / Associated Press)

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Oliver Lewis is a staff writer at The Athletic covering Manchester United. Previously, he wrote for ESPN. Follow Oliver on Twitter @OliverLewisAthletic.

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Thrilling Final Sees United Crowned World Champions

Palmeiras' Comeback and Late Dramatics from Ronaldo, Álvarez as United Win After 120'

By Felix Short | February 8, 2023, 11:59 PM EST

Julián Álvarez's 105th Minute Goal Was the Backbreaker for Palmeiras. (Michael Bradley/Manchester Guardian)

Mexico City, Mexico – In what was an enthralling and highly entertaining Club World Cup final in Mexico City, Manchester United came out on top in extra time against Palmeiras to be crowned champions of the world. With both teams having made their way through tough opposition to reach the final, it was set up to be a tantalizing encounter, with the added incentive of South American teams relishing the chance to prove themselves against European competition.

Manchester United started the game with confidence, and it was clear from the outset that they were going to be a handful for Palmeiras. The Brazilian side looked nervous and lacked their usual composure in the first half, with most of their players appearing to be overwhelmed by the occasion. However, they managed to keep United at bay until injury time, when a goal from Palmeiras changed everything. Mattheus Bardeira was able to break down United's defense, and he poked through a perfect pass to 16-year-old Endrick, who made the right run and slammed it past David De Gea.

The second half started with Palmeiras looking much more confident and assured, and they promptly tied the game up and then took the lead through two well-taken goals from Endrick and Rony respectively. United, however, did not give up and put the full-court press on over the last twenty minutes, with the red card to Veirundinho proving to be a turning point in the game. United were able to find the equalizer at the end of the game through a clinical finish from Cristiano Ronaldo, setting up a tense extra-time period.

In overtime, Palmeiras were visibly gassed, down a man, and unable to mount a serious challenge for the winner. They were hoping for the game to go to penalties, but United's quality pulled through, with Ronaldo and substitute Julián Álvarez proving to be the difference makers. Álvarez, whose former team, River Plate, lost to Palmeiras last season in the Copa Libertadores, was able to get a bit of revenge over the Brazilian champions as he came up big off the bench with a goal and assist.

“I think we grew up knowing we must hate teams like Palmeiras,” said Álvarez after the game, “I’ve played them before and the rivalry is always intense and so for me to come here and play like this against them, I just wanted to channel my inner-Argentine and play well.”

The goals scored in the game were of high quality, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess. United's goals came from Marcus Rashford, who was on fire on the day, scoring twice in the first half. The first was a shot that slipped by Weverton near post, with the goalkeeper's sight line blurred by defenders, and the second was an acrobatic swing after the ball had rattled around the Palmeiras box. Ronaldo also got on the scoresheet, finishing clinically after a pass from Álvarez, and he also provided the assist for Álvarez's goal in extra time.

Palmeiras' goals were equally impressive, with Endrick being their most devastatingly threatening player on the day. He scored twice, with the first coming just before half time, and the second being a hard and low shot past De Gea after collecting a through ball from Jacson Zonta. Rony was the other Palmeiras player to get on the scoresheet, scoring from the penalty spot after United had cleared the danger from a Nicolás De La Cruz pass.

"Playing against a European giant like Manchester United is an exciting feeling,” said Endrick after the game, “It was a great experience for me and my teammates, and we are proud of the way we played. We will learn from this experience and come back stronger next time."

United manager Thomas Walker said after the game, "I have a lot of respect for Palmeiras and South American soccer in general. They are a talented and well-coached team, and we knew it was going to be a difficult match. We are happy to have come out with the win, but we know we have a lot to work on moving forward."

In the end, it was Ronaldo who was awarded the man of the match award for his game-tying goal in the dying moments of extra time, plus the assist on the game-winning goal in overtime. United will now face Man City in the Manchester Derby at Old Trafford on Sunday, while Palmeiras will go back and look to defend their Copa Libertadores championship, but they will have a week without games.

Manchester United: 4 Goal Scorers: Marcus Rashford (20’, 1), Marcus Rashford (35’, 2nd), Cristiano Ronaldo (92’, 2nd), Julián Álvarez (105’, 1st) Assists: Amad (1st), Julián Álvarez (1st), Cristiano Ronaldo (1st) Palmeiras: 3 Goal Scorers: Endrick (45’+1, 2nd), Endrick (57’, 3rd), Rony (71’, 1st) Assists: Rony (1st), Jacson Zonta (1st), Nicolás De La Cruz (1st)

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Rumour: Walker Met With Endrick, Family Post-Game

United's Manager Reportedly Met with Endrick, Agent, Family After United's Win Over Palmeiras

By Logan Plant / @plantlounited / February 9, 2023, 7:05 AM

Endrick had two goals in the final, and four goals in the tournament. (Michael Bradley/Manchester Guardian)

Rumour – Manchester United manager Thomas Walker has reportedly met with 16-year-old Endrick and his family after Manchester United’s thrilling 4-3 overtime win over Endrick’s Palmeiras in the final of the Club World Cup. Endrick had an outstanding tournament, scoring four goals in total, two of which came in the final against United.

The young Brazilian has been on the radar of many top European clubs, including Barcelona and Real Madrid, but it seems that Manchester United could be a future destination for him. The club’s new ownership situation has sparked excitement among fans and pundits alike, as they believe that recent purchase of the club by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS could lead to a renewed energy in acquiring highly valued talents.

Endrick’s performance in the Club World Cup final certainly caught the eye of United’s manager, who has a reputation for giving young players a chance to shine. The youngster’s ability to create and score goals in the attacking third was incredible for someone so young, and that has him rated as one of the most talented teenagers in the world.

Walker’s meeting with Endrick and his family shows that the club is serious about securing the young player’s signature. Manchester United has a strong tradition of developing and nurturing young talent, with the likes of Marcus Rashford and Hannibal Mejbri rising through the ranks in recent years. Endrick could be the next in a long line of talented young players to make a name for themselves at Old Trafford.

Despite his age, Endrick has already shown himself to be a formidable talent. He has been a regular for Palmeiras’ side and was called up to the Brazilian senior squad in November. His performances in the Club World Cup have only served to further enhance his reputation as one of the most promising young players in world football.

It remains to be seen whether Manchester United will be able to sign Endrick, as there is sure to be stiff competition for his signature from other top European clubs. However, the club’s long history of developing young talent and the recent change in ownership could give them an edge in the race to secure the young Brazilian’s services.

For Endrick, a move to Manchester United would represent a huge opportunity to continue his development at one of the biggest clubs in world football under one of the best talent developing managers in world football. He would have the chance to work with top-class coaches and play alongside some of the best players in the world, all while representing one of the most storied clubs in football history.

Ultimately, the what transpired during the conversations that Walker had with the player, his family and representatives is unclear, but that won’t stop United fans from getting excited about the possibility that this young teenager could find himself in Manchester one day.


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United Short on Depth, Particularly in Midfield

Red Devils Roster Thin From Injury, Exhaustion Following Club World Cup

By Felix Short | February 10, 2023, 7:00 AM

Scott McTominay played 71 minutes against Palmeiras and could be available against City. (Michael Bradley/Manchester Guardian)

Manchester, England – Manchester United are set to face off against Manchester City in what could be a pivotal game in the Premier League title race. However, they will be doing so with a depleted midfield after injuries to Hannibal Mejbri and Donny van de Beek. The problem is compounded by the fact that Renato Sanches played the full 120 minutes in the Club World Cup final against Palmeiras, and the team only returned from Mexico City today.

United manager, Thomas Walker, will have to make some tough decisions ahead of the game as the team is short on midfielders. Toby Collyer, who made his senior team debut in United’s 4-0 win over Stoke City last month, and 17-year-old Kobbie Mainoo, who has yet to make his senior team debut, could be in the matchday squad. However, the team’s fatigue and lack of depth in the midfield could prove to be a major obstacle in what is sure to be a heated and competitive derby.

The exhaustion of the whole club after a grueling, emotionally draining win over Palmeiras and a long flight home could also impact the team's performance in the derby. The players will have to quickly adjust to the time difference and recover from their exhausting trip to Mexico City.

Manager Thomas Walker acknowledged the challenges his team is facing, saying, "It's not an ideal situation, but we have a squad of players that are capable of stepping up when needed. Toby and Kobbie have shown that they are talented players and we have faith in them. We will also have to rely on the experience of our other midfielders to step up and lead the team."

The absence of key midfielders will be a significant blow to the team, as Donny van de Beek has been in excellent form lately with four goals and six assists in 1,501 minutes across 21 games. Hannibal Mejbri, who has also been playing well this season, is out with a knee injury sustained in the Club World Cup. Bruno Fernandes had also been injured since November, although he is reportedly close to a return.

The Manchester derby is always a high-stakes affair, but this year's game takes on added significance as both teams are in the mix for the Premier League title. United currently sits in second place, six points behind Liverpool, while City is just four point behind United in third place. The outcome of this game could have a significant impact on the title race, and United will need to find a way to overcome their midfield shortage and fatigue to come out on top.

Despite the challenges, United remains confident that they can get a result in the derby. "We know it's going to be a tough game, but we're up for the challenge," said Cristiano Ronaldo. "We have a talented squad, and we've shown that we can compete with anyone in the league. We're going to have to dig deep and give it our all, but we believe that we can come away with a win."

As the clock ticks down to kickoff, United fans will be anxiously waiting to see who will step up in the absence of key midfielders, and whether the team can overcome their fatigue to get a crucial win in the Manchester derby.

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Fernandes Returns to Practice Pitch

Three Month Absence Comes to an End for Fernandes, Won't Be Ready for Manchester Derby

By Felix Short | February 11, 2023, 7:00 AM

Fernandes has been out since breaking his toe against Sevilla in November. (Michael Bradley/Manchester Guardian)

Manchester, England – Manchester United fans have a reason to rejoice as Bruno Fernandes has returned to training after a three-month layoff due to a broken toe. Although the midfielder will not be available for the upcoming Manchester derby, his return is expected to boost United’s chances in the remainder of the season. United have sorely missed Fernandes' attacking prowess and creativity in the final third in his absence.

Manager Thomas Walker expressed his delight at Fernandes’ return, stating that the Portuguese midfielder’s presence will provide a significant boost to the squad. “It’s great to have Bruno back in training. He’s a world-class player and we’ve missed him a lot over the past few months. We have some important games coming up and having him back will make a huge difference,” said Walker.

Fernandes, who has been an integral part of United’s success since joining the club in January 2020, spoke about his recovery and his eagerness to return to the pitch. “It’s been frustrating to be out for so long, but I’ve been working hard on my recovery and I’m excited to be back training with the team. I can’t wait to get back on the pitch and help the team in any way I can,” said Fernandes.

Fernandes’ absence has been felt by the team, especially in the midfield, where United have struggled to create chances and score goals. The midfielder’s return will add a new dimension to United’s attack and provide some much-needed creativity in the final third.

This season, Fernandes has played 15 games for United, amassing a total of 1,252 minutes on the pitch, with two goals and five assists to his name. He has been missed not just for his attacking contributions but also for his leadership and work rate on the pitch.

With Fernandes set to return to action soon, United fans can look forward to a more attacking and creative midfield. His presence could help United get back to winning ways and push for a top-four finish in the Premier League.

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