BOSS’ REACTION TO (ANOTHER) DRAW
Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho was understandably frustrated by his team’s 0-0 draw against West Brom. Following the match, Jose took aim at his forwards for not doing enough to break down the resolute West Brom defence. Mourinho did not criticise the opposition tactics but instead blamed his front men for not supporting his ‘phenomenal’ defence by nicking a goal. Mourinho was understandably upset with the small squad he has for Everton with the injuries piling up. He also commented on his desire to give players like Antonio Valencia and Eric Bailly a rest after their international assignments.
HALF-A-SEASON UNBEATEN
Manchester United have now totalled a league-high 19 games unbeaten in the league. Jose Mourinho’s men have not lost a match since their 4-0 thrashing at the hands of champions-elect Chelsea back in October. The number of draws in this run in matches against teams they should have beaten does take away some of the spotlight. But nonetheless it the longest such streak in any of Europe’s top 5 leagues.
TRIPLE BOOST
Manchester United have received a massive boost ahead of their fixture against Everton on Tuesday. A statement on United’s official site said that Paul Pogba reported for training for the first time since suffering his injury against Rostov on March 16th. He will be expected to play at least as a substitute against Everton. United will also welcome back Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Ander Herrera back into the first-team after serving their respective suspensions. Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Juan Mata remain out on the sidelines after failing to recover from their respective injuries. Meanwhile, Luke Shaw remains a doubt after being removed from the 18 man squad against West Brom.
MOST VALUABLE
Real Madrid and Manchester United have been crowned as the most valuable clubs in world football in an annual study by auditing giant KPMG. Both the teams have been valued at 2.9b Euros, at the end of the 1-15-16 season. Barcelona are third, valued at 2.8b and Bayern Munich at fourth with a 2.2b valuation. Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool follow.
FOUR TIMES BETTER
Latest reports out of Old Trafford indicates that Manchester United will earn four times more than what Manchester City earn per SEASON from a sleeve sponsor. Manchester United will be eyeing a £20m per year deal compared to City’s £5m one. Ironically, United have won 20 English top flight championships compared to City’s 5. United previously earned £20m per year from their previous Shirt deal. The deal again highlights Ed Woodward’s shrewd business mind and his ability to strike a deal. An Old Trafford source said, “The United shirt is one of the world’s iconic jerseys. There are several interested parties and talks are ongoing.”