23 May 2016 21:45:47
To start with, in glad the LVG era has officially ended, I haven't enjoyed our football in the slightest in the last 24 months under him. Having said that, in grateful for a couple of things he has done, giving youth a chance regardless of the reasons why, we have bedded in a few great prospects to the first team in Rashford, Borthwick Jackson, TFM, etc. Secondly is the obvious FA Cup which has eluded us since 2004, far to long for a club of our size, and for that alone LVG will be remembered in our history. So that's for your effort LVG, as a person I actually quite like him, as a manager he's finished at the elite level. Onwards and upwards and enjoy your retirement.

Now a new era starts, and it looks like Jose. We seem split on his appointment, with good reasons for each side. I understand people's fears of his style of football, his apparent ignorance of youth and the fact he doesn't offer longevity at a club. But the days of managers at top clubs lasting 10 years and beyond are firmly finished. You won't see that happen again. Footballs evolved. You only have to look at the top Spanish clubs, they change manager every couple of years but still manage to remain successful. I don't really see the issue with that. I think it's just vital the right manager of chosen when them 3 years are up. One thing we do know is that Jose is a winner. Everywhere he's been he has bought success and I'm sure he can take us back to the summit again. Yes I'm sure a lot of money will need to be spent, but I think all clubs will spend big this summer. Again, footballs changed.

I think there's some major work to be done with the squad despite my belief we have some very good players. I think DDG will leave this summer, although I'm hoping the appointment of Jose could persuade him to stay. If he goes I'd demand Navas as part of the deal. Very good keeper. Next on the agenda is the CB position. We're desperately short in this area. I'd sell Jones and McNair, and purchase two new ones. Maybe try one top class player such as Verane, and maybe a cheaper premier league experienced CB such as A Williams of Swansea. I'm pretty happy in the full back positions.
In Midfield I think Sweiny has past it, Carricks legs have gone, Fellini isn't the right type of player for us and I'd sell or release these 3. I'd be looking for one maybe two to come in and fight with Hererra and Schneiderlin. My dream signing would be Marco Veratti who I rate massively. I also still love Vidal if he was at all attainable. We need a RW for sure, Sane would be my pick. Then up top we need someone to take the burden off Rashford next season. I'd love Greizmann but that's never happening. Aubamayang would be an exciting signing and I think he would handle the premier league well. If Ibra were to come for 2 years to help Rashford progress while taking the scoring burden off his shoulders I'd be happy enough with that.

One thing I do want to say, with Jose coming in the future of Mata looks uncertain. I think it would be a real shame to see Mata leave. He has his flaws and pace is the biggest issue, but he does offer a lot when played in the 10 role. He's technically brilliant, and always seems to pop up with an important assist or goal. The other thing about Mata is I think he is a complete role model for how modern day footballers should behave. I would be sad to see him leave to be honest.

Anyway sorry for the long post, the next few weeks could be very exciting for us. Here's hoping for some really top class signings before the euros kick off!

1.) 23 May 2016
23 May 2016 22:29:07
Have to agree with all that. Especially Mata, was at carrington a few months back, and him, De Gea and Herrera were the only ones to pull over and have a chat/ photos etc. Real genuine nice guy.

2.) 23 May 2016
23 May 2016 22:41:51
I will add in my opinion is another Mourhino flaw and that is he will do anything to win, I like to win but not at any cost. But he's here now and I will support him and the team.

3.) 23 May 2016
23 May 2016 23:28:07
There are bigger fish to fry when it comes to getting rid of players.

Our squad is already too thin and I expect Carrick and DDG will be leaving at the bare minimum. Players like Depay, Rojo, Fellaini, Basti, Young and Valencia could also be on the way out and so I can't see the logic in getting rid of a quality player like Mata before getting rid of the aforementioned.

The absolute most players I can see us signing is 6 (3-5 seems realistic) and so by extension the most that I see leaving is 3 or 4. Getting rid of Mata whilst keeping Young and/ or Fellaini would be foolish.