Something old. Something new.

Some might say Jose Mourinho has no time for youngsters.

Well, I say he knew exactly the moment to add eighteen year old Marcus Rashford into the mix yesterday. Who has now become the youngest goalscorer to play under him by the way. Another day. Another record broken.

What better way to win it than in the affectionally named ‘Fergie time.’ Jose was more than happy for this tradition to continue. Yes. It was a rainy day in Hull with admittedly few special moments for the away team in the first forty five minutes.

What seemed crystal clear to me was that twelve months ago, you could almost guarantee a goalless draw at the full time whistle. Or a Manchester United defeat. But that was then.

This is now. Talking of which, this is the first time in half a decade that United have got three wins out of three at this stage. And of course, nine points out of nine. Sure, there’s a long way to go. But it’s a brilliant and promising start to say the least.

We have a manager who wants to win every game however we do it. We have born winners in the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and passionate young stars like Marcus Rashford. They compliment each other perfectly.

While it probably won’t be the most exciting match we’ll see this season, we didn’t give up. Classic United. In the dying moments of injury time, getting the goal that sealed the win. And a true sense of unity with the fans following that. The celebration shown exactly what this meant to fans and players alike. We really want this like never before. The title that is.

Mourinho stated his team deserved the win, and I have to agree. All credit to Hull. They weren’t giving up easily. But honestly, the second half we gave everything and had enough chances. It just took one defensive mistake to elaborate on and that’s all we needed.

I don’t take wins like this for granted. These are exactly the kind of games that cost us last season. Not quite being able to score, or have many attempts at goal for that matter. Apparently settling for a draw. No thankyou. Play until the final whistle and get the three points by any means possible. That’s what this club is about. Find a way. Not an excuse. Even in defeat. Fight. Lose with dignity. Anything less is unacceptable.

The fun is only just beginning. Next up in the league is the Manchester Derby. And one like we’ve never seen before. With Pep Guardiola holding the reigns at City, the intensity of this rivalry is about to go up a notch. Zlatan has made no secret of his issues with Pep. As for Jose, there’s no love lost there either.

You get this real sense that when Mourinho said he wanted to win every game, he truly meant it. Not in the way that we will. But in the way we will give everything to do so. Get the tricky wins. Have that true team spirit to keep going. And make the most of the celebrations with the fans.

No champions league? No problem. We can’t attract top players? Don’t be silly. We’re finished? This new era is only just starting. Zlatan’s too old? Goals speak for themselves. Jose doesn’t give youth a chance? Marcus! I could go on but actions speak louder than words. I’ll let the team take it from here.

I can’t lie and say it’s easy for my team to have the best start for five years with no Champions League football to look forward to this season. But what I can say is that I’ll happily take the wait if it means we actually make an impact when we make our return. Without question, I want to see us back with a new determination next year.

However, it seems apparent this isn’t Jose’s sole aim. No. He doesn’t want to just make it. He wants the league title. For him. For the players. For us, the fans. And it would appear his men are following suit in this pursuit.

I truly look forward to seeing what will become of us in this new dawn of Manchester United.

It’s finally starting to truly sink in that this is reality. The boss. The signings. The exciting prospect of the present and future. It isn’t a dream.

Fergie time. On Mourinho’s watch. The best of the old with the magic of the new.

As I’ve said previously, take it one game at a time. Sit back. And make every minute count.

Like the lads did yesterday…

One step at a time.

I can’t be the only one…

I can’t be the only one still in disbelief.

Or the only one that hasn’t quite yet lost the initial excitement of Jose Mourinho’s appointment and those that followed after.

It still doesn’t seem real. With my own eyes, I witnessed a passionate Jose with his game face on (quite literally) in front of me on the touchline.

Even so, days later, I’m still enchanted by the simple thought of it. Add into that the small matter of Zlatan Ibrahimovic gracing Old Trafford and the return of Paul Pogba and you have to admit. It’s magic.

Not since the nostalgic ‘Fergie time’ have I experienced such a high in the presence of Manchester United. Only this is different. There isn’t the smallest hint of imitation, or replicating something that once was.

This isn’t even the United I know. Not that it’s a bad thing. It’s a period of true excitement and intrigue. Not knowing what could or will happen next adds to the beauty of it. Not predictable. Nor the standard. But perhaps unstoppable. With the sense that anything is possible. There’s a mystique about our current situation like no other.

To put it into another context, imagine every Christmas as a child. The best day of the year. Happy times. And always cherished. But you know pretty much what will happen from one year to the next.

Now, imagine waking up on one such day, but there’s this element of surprise. Like you genuinely don’t know what will happen but there’s this gut instinct it will be the best yet somehow. That is where I’m at now, metaphorically speaking of course.

Now, back to the night itself. Friday night football. The theatre of dreams. A meeting with Southampton. And the Old Trafford faithful happy to be back ‘home’ and behind the team.

Here’s something I feel will be leaving my mouth (and typing fingers) quite frequently over the coming months. It was quite blatantly Zlatan time once again. Who else to score two goals on their home league debut than our ‘Swedish hero?’ The first headed home with a picture perfect penalty finish to follow.

Another highlight of the night was Paul Pogba’s instant impact and the warm welcome he got in return.

Let the papers and the whisperers talk about money in their drones. But there’s no doubt in my mind this means much more to him than his bank balance.

Paul is definitely back home and eager to put his talent to good use. Besides, the ‘waste of money’ observations only spurred his team mate Anthony Martial on. So please continue. Actions speak so much louder than words. Especially on the pitch. Time will tell. Be patient.

The hug between the manager and Juan Mata once again spoke volumes and was lovely to witness. Talking of the former, Jose was on top form. This is a man that wants to win. His involvement, connection to the players and the fans and special (sorry) touch only confirmed my belief in him.

What I respect the most though, is he genuinely appreciates and follows the United way. The only difference (and highly significant one at that), being he does so his own way. Manchester United, with a Mourinho twist. Sounds good doesn’t it?

David De Gea had a less than busy night to say the least and a clean sheet under his belt. While I thoroughly adore him and applaud his success, it’s nice to see the pressure being eased of him.

The cold hard truth is, while it is an amazing accomplishment, a goalkeeper should not be winning player of the year for three consecutive years. And while it’s good to still have him here, let’s hope to see another player claim the award come the end of the season. Call me crazy but a striker would be a welcome change.

At risk of repeating myself, I have to mention Eric Bailly again! The prospect of him developing further is a bright one indeed. May he prosper.

I’m sure Friday will be another memory us reds won’t forget in a hurry and one that will go down in the history books. But, let’s hope it’s for all the right reasons.

Now, it’s important to continue to take it one game at a time. Clear heads. Keep the faith in our team. Enjoy this new era. We can only experience it once!

Come what may, something tells me this season will be unforgettable.

Right now though, there’s only one thing left for me to say…

Onto the next one.

A New Dawn.

And so it begins..

After what felt like an eternity, today we finally got to see the new and improved Manchester United kick the new season off.

There was only one way to do so. With a win of course. How else?

Yes. Bournemouth away was the fixture that would set the precedent for the months that lie ahead.

By no means am I insinuating it was perfect. Obviously there’s a while to go yet until we see the finished product of Jose Mourinho’s work in progress. Wayne Rooney was a world away from his best. It was a slow start with a less than enthralling first half from the away side.

But (and it’s a big but), as always, it’s the results that count. In this instance though, how we got the three points was just as special.

Juan Mata silenced constant talk of a rift with his new (and old) manager with the only way he knew how. A goal. A scrappy one at that admittedly. Yes. It was practically gifted to us from a defensive error but he was in the right place at the right time. And that’s all that matters.

From this moment, we were given the boost we needed to attack some more and more importantly, secure three points. A rare positive moment for the captain culminated into a goal. So no complaints from me there.

Some say three is a magic number. Today this was in no doubt with who else other than Zlatan Ibrahimovic securing his first Premier League goal and United’s third.

This was made all the more special by the reaction from the bench. Just to see Jose and his staff up on their feet loving it as much as the fans were meant so much. The polar opposite of what us reds became accustomed to last season.

Sadly for David De Gea (and my dream team), he couldn’t keep a clean sheet. But mistakes are made and that’s football for you. And how i’ve missed it.

The score remained 3-1 at the full time whistle.

Ultimately though, more positives can be taken from today than anything else.

Eric Bailly, the thoroughly well deserved man of the match, once again reiterated my thoughts that he was made for this club.

There was further confirmation that Zlatan time is most definitely upon us. The manager on his feet. Away fans singing their hearts out (obviously). A compact United without restriction to play with freedom. And a win on the opening day. Not bad at all.

Looking ahead, we have to keep this momentum. Keep going. And show everyone who Manchester United truly are.

It’s a sprint. Not a race. As Mourinho said, we want to win every game but we have to take it one at a time. Next up is Southampton at the theatre of dreams.

Honestly, I haven’t felt such excitement to attend Old Trafford in a long time. I just have this gut feeling things are only going to get better. Everything’s clicking into place. If that isn’t the case then fine. That’s the beauty of it. There are no guarantees. Only a sense of true belief that we’re going in the right direction. Up!

I’m intrigued to say the least.

Surely, on Friday night we’ll see Paul Pogba’s long awaited return. The atmosphere will be electric in the stands. And Mourinho’s men will want nothing more than to add another win to their belt. But we shall simply have to wait and see.

As i’ve said time and time again, nothing is predictable when it comes to football. Especially in the Premier League. I accept anything can happen and in no way am i getting ahead of myself. I shall not make that mistake again in a hurry. Believe me!

However, I make no apologies for feeling elated to see the lads in action again. My faith in the team won’t falter for no one. But my mind is open and I’m just keen to see our next move in this new chapter being written.

The Premier League is back. United are back. And so is the smile on my face.

Lets bring the fear factor back to Old Trafford once and for all. It’s about time.

The future nobody knows. Despite this, it is crucial to remember never to write Manchester United off.

The beautiful game. We’ve missed you.

Let’s hope the devil’s fire is alive and well against the saints.

Hold on tight for the ride…

 

 

Home sweet home.

The worst kept secret in football finally came to a close when Manchester United announced Paul Pogba would be making an expensive return.

Many, including myself admittedly, had become bored of the endless stream of stories and the will he, won’t he debate. This doesn’t deter from the fact Paul is a welcome (and familiar) addition to the team.

But you’d think from a rival fans perspective they’d be relieved the dominance of United (again) making headlines would be slightly less prominant. I say slightly because realistically you’re never going to get rid of us that easy.

Instead, the obsession has reached fever pitch. The whispers have got louder. Now, there are those ‘concerned’ for us. Really? They said we would never attract big names without Champions League football. We did. They said Pogba would never return. He did. They said we were finished. I can assure you we’re not.

The last thing we need is sympathy. A mere matter of months ago we were at our lowest ebb. We were stuck with a manager lacking a true understanding of what Manchester United football club is all about. We were lumbered with the prospect of another year of the same excuses, same mediocre football and more unwanted results.

Now? After what seemed like an eternity of the majority of fans crying out for him, Jose Mourinho finally got his hands on the job he appeared to crave. Say what you like about Jose (I have too) but he is a proven and born winner. Talking of which, Zlatan Ibrahimovic shares these qualities too. His presence alone is something to behold. Eric Bailly is fast becoming one to watch. Henrikh Mkhitaryan has also made an instant impact. And of course Paul Pogba is back at the theatre of dreams. So excuse me if this comes across rude, but take your pity somewhere it’s needed. We’re doing just fine over here.

The irony is I haven’t been this happy as a red in a long time. Just when you think it can’t get any better, it does.

I couldn’t care less how much we pay for players. Football always comes first but being blunt we are a monster when it comes business too. We make money. We spend it. Simple enough to comprehend surely? All that matters to me is the performance on the pitch.

Although Pogba hasn’t had chance yet (well, not this time anyway), I’m already thrilled he’s back. The words ‘I’m home’ really resonated with me. The twinkle in his eyes at the prospect of playing for us once again was unmistakable. I don’t doubt he’ll go above and beyond to make the most of this opportunity. He left a boy but he’s back a man and an exceptionally gifted one at that.

Yes. We’re going to make the most out of this excitement. Yes. We’re going to milk it for all it’s worth. That’s because we love and believe in our club. If you don’t fine. But, there really is no need to talk so much if you don’t care so much.

The Premier League is now just days away.

I seriously cannot wait!

All this hatred, supposed pity and expectance of failure needs to be used only as adrenaline to further prove the doubters wrong.

We’re ready. More than ready in fact. But it all comes down to the moment the whistle is blown, the pressure is on and all eyes are on us. Words can only go so far. Action is what we need.

I urge every single one of my fellow reds worldwide, despite any previous concerns, to get behind your team like never before.

Play our part. Focus on the football. And ignore anything which is of no relavance to us. We know what’s important.

And despite what anyone says, Paul Pogba is one of our own. He’s just been on loan…

Let the real fun begin.

Give them a reason to talk.

Only the beginning.

Jose Mourinho’s men started the new dawn of Manchester United the best way possible today.

There’s a long way to go until I can safely say ‘we’re back.’ Yes. It was ‘just the community shield.’ And seen as nothing more than a ’50p coin’ to some. But sometimes you have to look beyond the obvious and delve deeper.

You see, my enthusiasm and excitement doesn’t necessarily stem from the winning of the shield itself. As a United fan, i’m fully aware of the calibre of trophies we already have in our cabinet. This is much more than that. It’s hopefully a symbol of the winning mentality returning to our club we were once so accustomed to. A pathway for bigger and better things to come.

You’d have to be ignorant to not see the intense hunger displayed in the eyes of our new manager. Again, not just for today, but for the future of Manchester United. He understands the expectation. He gets it. But more importantly Jose wants to create a team who won’t only comply with this but surpass it.

There seems to be this correlation between the fans and Mourinho himself. By this, I mean we’ve both experienced recent lows and because of this, we desperately want to prove ourselves again in the only way we can. On the pitch. Playing the beautiful game.

Of course there’s still a sense that football has truly kicked off yet (pardon the pun). We want league games. The good and the bad. We want to see the lads, old and new, at Old Trafford. But there is certainly a sense that this is the start of things to come. Or at the very least the start of what Jose has planned.

The players desire to achieve something special is also at the forefront. Be it because they’ve just joined and want to make their mark and therefore get a start in the team. Or those fighting to keep their position. Aswell as the likes of Marcus Rashford still wanting to defy the odds. And not forgetting the Zlatan Ibrahimovic himself. Yes. The.

Truthfully, I couldn’t care less for these personal reasons and what motivates the players. So long as their common ground is wanting to win, and doing all they can to get there.

Talking of an urgency to win, Zlatan has clearly expressed that’s what he’s here for. So it’s only right he scored the winning goal in today’s game against Premier League champions (for now) Leicester. This was after Jesse Lingard got us one up of course. And not forgetting Jamie Vardy’s gifted equaliser.

The finished product is not final. But it’s getting closer. And just in time too. Throw into the mix the long awaited announcement of Paul Pogba and we have a winning team on our hands. Okay. It’s not concrete. But the club and manager have both made it clear the right steps have been put into place. Which can hopefully end the circus surrounding it so we can focus on what really matters. The football.

Although i can’t quite believe i’m about to say this when Zlatan time is well and truly upon us, our stand out signing for me so far is Eric Bailly. Without a doubt he was my man of the match today. He was strong. Unafraid to get stuck in. To make tackles. Perhaps a little too feisty at times? But the work ethic is there and these attributes are pretty much all you can ask for in a centre back.

Could we be looking at a close match to the fearless Serbian who once adorned the red shirt? Time will tell. Whilst nobody will ever replace Vidic to me, he certainly shares some attributes with the legend before him. But it isn’t about comparisons. It’s about making a name for yourself. At this moment in time, Eric is certainly doing that.

Another name that was wonderful to hear was Luke Shaw. After a horrific injury last season which left him with a broken leg and the team with an irreplaceable void, it was welcome indeed. His pace is still there. And determination. If not more so. Nothing and nobody can stop him getting better now apart from himself. Assuming and hoping he stays fit of course.

So, excuse us if we want to celebrate today. But what we’re really celebrating is a new Manchester United. One with huge stars and born winners on the pitch and bench alike. One with youth traditions still blatantly playing a part.

One with Zlatan Ibrahimovic alongside us stating he feels this is a big club.

One with a manager and fanbase who are down but not out, unfavoured but not without fight and hated once again.

Play up to it. Give them a reason to hate. This is only the beginning.

Some things are written in the stars. And something tells me the union of Jose Mourinho and Manchester United were truly made for each other.

But fate can only play one part. Now is the time for hardwork. Passion. And an urgency to win trophies.

Here’s to a new season like no other we have known. Here’s to us.

Here’s to United being great again.

Over to you lads…

This is the one.

We’ve reached that time of year again…

Now in the month of August, the new Premier League season seems just a stone’s throw away and the anticipation is building with intensity.

Only, it feels different this time. I’m sure my fellow reds will agree the past few years haven’t been easy. But everything happens for a reason. When we go through struggles, be it in the football world or personally, this is your fuel to come out stronger.

I’m sure I can’t be alone in this state of awe i’m currently in. Being honest, it will probably take a while before the additions to our team (both players and management) truly sink in.

Not that i’m complaining! This is a new level of excitement. While it would be understandable to want to forget the post Fergie era, I urge you not to.

Why? Because this is Manchester United. Throughout history, we have fought back in the worst of times. We have defied the odds time and time again. Winning is one thing. But the true making of a team of champions is shown in the way they get back up after defeat.

Remember the struggles. Let go of the frustration. But keep a grip on that urgency you felt to see a true representation of your team.

When (not if) we experience the highs of success, we must never take it for granted. See the beauty in the football. That which we’ve missed so much.

The signings we’ve already made have instantly made an impact in pre season games. Whilst we can’t speak too soon prior to the matches that really count, Zlatan Ibrahimovic scoring on his debut within several minutes seems to be a glimpse of what’s to come. It’s only a matter of time before we see such magic at Old Trafford. And i’m hopeful the fear factor will make a welcome return too.

As always, speculation surrounds our club. At present, it’s Paul Pogba who dominates the headlines with echoes of his imminent return sounding in our ears. Whilst nothing is guaranteed, it certainly seems likely he’ll be back in devils red before we know it. Albeit, a world away from the last time.

In regards to complaints over money, I have one thing to say. We’re still Manchester United. Not only adored (and sometimes hated) globally, but a monster in terms of business too. Why shouldn’t we spend big?

Have you seen the sales shirts with Zlatan’s name alone have accumulated? Exactly. Throw Pogba into that and the revenue will speak for itself. Nothing and nobody can deter from the fact we are still a huge club. So, it’s only right to act like one.

Players of this calibre will also impact on the youth too. And therefore set the precedent for the future.

Youngster Marcus Rashford has already expressed the instant example Zlatan has set for him. And to see the Swedish star stand for the eighteen year old’s run was a special moment. I’m in no doubt we’ll be seeing loads of these. Ridiculously perfect considering we got Ibrahimovic on a free transfer.

Watching the 5-2 win over Galatasaray also reminded me of something i’ve missed so much. Your first thought might be goals. And make no mistake, they were wonderful to see. But it wasn’t that. To see the manager on the touchline, acknowledging every goal and every minute, really strook a chord with me.

Money can buy world class players. It can sell shirts. But passion? Expressing your feelings for the team in front of you. It can’t be bought. Or be faked. It has to be raw. It has to be real. And seeing glimpses of this in Jose Mourinho even now has me happily intrigued for what lies ahead.

Whilst for some, it hasn’t quite sunk in that the self appointed special one is here, I can’t help but feel he’s found his home in Manchester United. There is something so surreal about the two finally coming together and come what may, there will be fireworks. There will be drama. But most importantly we’ll not just have a proven winner as the boss, but a manager who truly cares. And understands the magnitude of Manchester United. That in itself is priceless.

If you’ve somehow managed to keep your excitement at bay until now, unleash it now. Just imagine it for a second.

Old Trafford. The theatre of dreams. Jose walking out to an atmosphere like no other. The buzz amongst fans vividly apparent. David De Gea still here. Zlatan hungry for goals. Youngsters hungry to emulate him one day. And tell me you’re not counting down the days until this actually becomes reality.

This gut instinct of good things ahead that I can’t shake off hasn’t been felt since Alex Ferguson worked his expertise. Yes. Admittedly I got excited every season after. That’s only natural. I supported those in charge for as long as humanly possible, but this right now? No. I haven’t had this feeling deep in my gut for such a long time. And whilst nobody (including me) can be sure of what challenges the future holds, there’s one thing I can say.

This is the one.

No excuses. Nor regrets. Learning from the past. Not an attempt to be who we used to be. But a chance for a completely fresh start. Full of wonder and a hint of nerves.

Whilst everything has changed, there’s one constant.

The love for the team which has long been a part of our lives. Never let that go. Fight with them. Believe in them.

We are United. The best is yet to come.