Talk of the Devils: The Athletic FC's Manchester United show
Host Ian Irving is joined by The Athletic's Laurie Whitwell, Carl Anka and Andy Mitten on the world's biggest Manchester United podcast. Subscribe for expert insight from inside the club, breaking news and two episodes every week.
Episodes
From Man United's academy to the World Cup: Zidane Iqbal
Zidane Iqbal has been on a journey; that's a cliche, of course, but in this case it's also literally true... and there are more air miles incoming.The Manchester United academy graduate was raised by a Pakistani father and Iraqi mother just a stone's throw from Old Trafford. He became the first British-born South Asian to represent the club when selected as a substitute in a Champions League fixtu
Man United players to shine at the World Cup?
As Talk of the Devils heads toward our well-earned end of season break (albeit we've one more fun treat for you before we do), it's time for us to take a look at the 2026 World Cup.Man United players would usually be headline acts but this renewal, hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA, looks a little different. There's plenty of interest, of course, but it's unclear how central the club's players
Man United end of season awards 2025/26
The dust is settling on another Premier League campaign and, as the summer solstice looms on the horizon, it's time for our annual end of season awards.It's a much happier, therefore considerably less tongue-in-cheek, set of awards than this time last year as we decide the player of the year (who's not the marvellous captain bruno) and the best first-season United player.We also choose our favouri
Man United Q&A: Rashford, Ederson, Keane, ‘Carrick-ball’, & more!
It's the last Q&A of the season (or the first of the new one, depending on how you look at it). Either way, it's a whopper, with a massive influx of questions.Mixed fortunes for Manchester United players past/present/on loan/future(?) when it comes to World Cup call-ups. We discuss the merits of Harry Maguire's omission by Thomas Tuchel, and whether Anthony Gordon's Barcelona move will skupper
Perfect beginning (and end) for Carrick’s Man United
Michael Carrick was appointed as Manchester United's permanent head coach before the final game of the 2025/26 Premier League season and he will start his two-year contract off the back of a comfortable three-nil win on a beautiful day in Brighton.Bruno Fernandes was once again mobbed by his teammates after his corner was headed strongly home by Patrick Dorgu; he has now made the Premier League as
How can Man United challenge for the Premier League?
Apparently, there have been a couple of domestic trophies decided this week... no, us neither. While Manchester United have made significant progress in the Premier League, it would be nice to be the ones celebrating this time next year. How can that be achieved?Obviously, the big question is on midfield recruitment, and we may be getting closer to some answers there. It would also seem that Micha
Inside Bruno's Premier League assist record
Manchester United beat Nottingham Forest 3-2 at Old Trafford on Sunday, their last home game of the season. However, it was Bruno Fernandes who was the focus of most attention (in the game, at least) as he equalled the record for assists by one player in a Premier League campaign. He can still make it his own at Brighton next week, but really should have done so already going by his remarkable cha
Carrick ‘recommended’ for Man United job
Manchester United will face Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford this Sunday and there should be a good feeling about the place. Results have been close to perfect under Michael Carrick and we understand the club's executive team will recommend his appointment as permanent head coach.So, hopefully Carrick will be staying on, but Casemiro will say a fond farewell to the home crowd after four emotional
Which Man United players failed Sunderland audition?
We asked a series of questions about the rest of the season on our podcast last Thursday, mostly concerning Manchester United's "squad" players and what they need to do in the last three league game to stake their claim for a prominent role next season.In the first of those three games, at Sunderland, it's fair to say we were left rather underwhelmed by the answers. With the caveat that they haven
What’s left for Man United this season?
Manchester United will compete for the 2026-27 Champions League and when the draw comes around they will most likely be in Pot 2 which should deliver a couple of high profile matches and some more interesting destinations as well. But, what does that mean for the rest of this season?Will Michael Carrick (still not confirmed as a permanent head coach of the team) choose to rotate a little and give
Man United seal Champions League against Liverpool
Manchester United are back in the Champions League having done the double over Liverpool, that's the league double against Liverpool.The lads rushed straight to the studio to record this podcast for you, even with Ian feeling a little poorly, and even though United didn't take their 2-0 half-time lead and add a few more to really add insult to injury.As it was, we had to make do with another great
Will Man United beat biggest rivals to Champions League?
Manchester United face Liverpool at Old Trafford this Sunday knowing that a win against their biggest rivals will guarantee Champions League football next season. It would also represent an incredible turnaround in the two teams' fortunes from this time last year. It looks good, especially with the hand Arne Slot has at his disposal, but the podcast's confidence is very cautious.Michael Carrick li
Casemiro scores again in Brentford victory
Man United ran through this season's full repertoire in beating Brentford at Old Trafford on Monday night. Casemiro header, tick, Bruno assist, tick, Sesko finish, tick, wobbly spell at the back and nervy last five minutes... tick, tick.Casemiro put in a statistically remarkable performance but also did lots of Casemiro things and we're forced, once again, to ask, "is there a chance he'll stay on?
Who are Man United targeting this summer?
Manchester United will host Brentford in the Premier League at Old Trafford on Monday night. The Bees are still in with an outside chance of a top-five finish and Champions League football, but Carrick's men may be able to seal it in this game if other results go their way. However...Today is all about summer transfers on Talk of the Devils. Laurie Whitwell has returned from paternity leave, dropp
The future of Man United's midfield (with Bryan Robson!)
A man who needs no introduction, least of all to Man United fans, Captain Marvel Bryan Robson joins us in the studio for a jam-packed hour of great stories!From his playing career, almost 900 games of it (what injuries?!), winning his first major trophy with Man United, and a few more, European glory, and, of course, the celebrations…We ask him about the current United side as well. What does he m
Man United close in on Champions League at Chelsea
It's almost done, then. United defied a defensive *crisis at Stamford Bridge to keep their first clean sheet since February and Matheus Cunha delivered the killer blow to see off Chelsea... we don't even need to tell you who provided the assist.Ayden Heaven was, eventually, partnered by Noussair Mazraoui at centre half and, with Luke Shaw and the returning Diogo Dalot either side (and Kobbie in fr
How do Man United cope with defensive crisis at Chelsea?
Manchester United head to Stamford Bridge for a Saturday night Champions League six-pointer with Chelsea but there's a good chance it won't match up to the all-guns blazing shootout that was Real Madrid at Bayern in this season's quarter final.It has now been confirmed, at the eleventh hour, that Harry Maguire will miss the Chelsea game having had his red card ban extended for an FA charge of abus
How damaging is Man United’s Leeds defeat?
Manchester United had three and a half weeks without a competitive fixture and it looked like longer as Leeds swarmed them in the first half at Old Trafford.Harry Maguire was a big miss on the night as United's unfamiliar back four struggled and the Yorkshireman may yet miss the trip to Stamford Bridge. Lisandro Martinez almost certainly will after his controversial red card for pulling Dominic Ca
Man United face Leeds with Champions League in sights
It's been 84 years... well, 24 days actually, but it's felt like years. While Manchester United versus Leeds United is no longer the titanic struggle it has been in the past, it's a huge game as Michael Carrick's men close in on the Champions League.Just seven games remain in the Premier League season and, with a fifth UCL spot guaranteed and a seven-point cushion between themselves and a misfirin
Man United Quiz with Career We Go
We're in the deepest stretch of the gaping chasm that is Manchester United's March/April Premier League hiatus and we have a very special collaborative episode of Talk of the Devils for you to enjoy.Hosted by Bobby Faghihi of the excellent Career We Go podcast, it's a Man United quiz with Andy and Critch teaming up against Carl and, a very competitive, Ian to find out who really knows their stuff.
Why Maguire deserves a new Man United contract
Michael Carrick's second spell as Manchester United manager has gone about as well as could have been expected. After our three-part assessment of United's summer transfer objectives, you asked if he is likely to be in charge next season, whether that affects the transfer plans, and if he's a big enough name to attract the right players.Harry Maguire, along with Kobbie Mainoo, returned to internat
Will Man United add to their forward line this summer?
The third, and final, discussion in our trilogy of summer transfer previews is a boutique affair, certainly by our usual standards, as the panellists (with one exception) don't expect much business to be done in this area.Whether that turns out to be the case could depend on what happens to Joshua Zirkzee. Other than a few fleeting moments, the young Dutchman hasn't got airborne at United and, wit
Do Man United need to fix their defence this summer?
It's part two of our early look into summer transfer business, and the first parting of the ways on opinion. Everyone agrees midfield is the highest priority, but how important is it to bring in defensive reinforcements?The club has been well stocked with centre backs for quite a while now, not least because the team was playing with three of them under Ruben Amorim. Now that the formation require
What will Man United's midfield look like next season?
As we enter a lengthy break for the men's first XI it's time to take a look at what will be needed next season with European football, most likely the Champion's League, impending. We will publish three episodes of TotD this week, one on each department of the squad.In today's first of the three, it's the midfield. Without a doubt the most urgent area of recruitment as United have struggled to neg
Man United draw at Bournemouth after Maguire sees red
Bournemouth draw, they always draw, and we knew that. The circumstances were a bit more dramatic than expected, however, with Manchester United's manager Michael Carrick describing two of referee Stuart Attwell's decisions as "baffling" and "astonishing".Still, it was a good game and a good performance. Bruno Fernandes continues to impress spectators and statisticians, Matheus Cunha tormented the
Can Man United maintain momentum into break?
Michael Carrick takes his Manchester United squad to Bournemouth for a Friday night fixture which will be followed by a 23-day break. With a patchy recent record against the Cherries, a win will keep the Champions League charge going during that hiatus.Will there be a defensive reshuffle? Leny Yoro has regained some form and played very well against Aston Villa, but Lisandro Martinez is expected t
Bruno inspiration as Man United surge towards Champions League
It doesn't matter who called it first: Aston Villa came to Old Trafford and left with nothing, Michael Carrick maintains his 100% record at home, and United put clear air between themselves and the other contenders for top three in the Premier League.Bruno put in another inspirational display and assisted two of the three goals; he took the corner that allowed Casemiro to break the deadlock with a
Can Man United open gap to Champions League rivals?
The Champions League, is it the be-all-and-end-all of club football? With Manchester United's financial results getting a deep analysis from The Athletic's Chris Weatherspoon and cashflow problems coming into real focus, it has never seemed more important.Aston Villa are another club for whom chasing the glory and riches of the Champions League has been a huge part of the narrative. They will play
Is Carrick on course to be permanent Man United boss?
Defeat at Newcastle ended Michael Carrick's superb unbeaten run since taking interim charge of first team affairs at Manchester United. Does this actually give us an opportunity to build a more accurate picture of his work since taking over? Our first dive into summer business asks the question; is Carrick headed for the job on a permanent basis?We'll look at the football, of course, where most pe
Carrick’s Man United unbeaten run ends at Newcastle
The honeymoon is over... what about the future of the relationship? Michael Carrick's unbeaten run as Manchester United manager, which has lit a fire under the pursuit of Champions League football this season, is over.In truth, it was a poor performance; the team had laboured even during a largely uneventful opening forty minutes. Of course, the level of incident changed dramatically at the end of
Sesko strikes again as Man United go third
Another week, another win. Crystal Palace started brightly at Old Trafford and centre half Maxence Lacroix gave the visitors the lead in a stodgy first half-hour. But, Michael Carrick has the midas touch right now; he identified the tactical tweaks needed and Big Ben Sesko scored yet another crucial goal.It was Bruno Fernandes' pass to Matheus Cunha which allowed the Brazilian to slip past Lacroix
Should Sesko start against Palace?
Benjamin Sesko is so hot right now; the six foot Slovenian has been scoring regularly and impacting games. Is it time for Michael Carrick to hand him a start against an ailing Crystal Palace at Old Trafford?Having made club history by winning the FA Cup and the Community Shield, Palace are now in a bad way; the squad has been decimated by departures and injuries. Manager Oliver Glasner (tipped by
Sesko & Lammens lift Man United at Everton
After a fortnight off, Manchester United returned to Premier League action at Everton's Hill Dickinson stadium and, while the match didn't live up to our heightened expectations (heightened for all sorts of reasons), the team pulled off a big win with composure and inspiration in key moments.The composure and calm came from the back; Harry Maguire and co were in sufficiently combative mood, repell
Man United to return with a win at Everton?
Manchester United will return to Premier League action on Monday evening after thirteen days without a game; Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, and Carl Anka took advantage of the break with trips abroad but Andy is energised by an upcoming trip to Everton's nearly new Hill Dickinson Stadium.In on-pitch matters, the women's team made serene progress to the Champions League quarter finals by b
What makes a Man United goalkeeper with Eric Steele
Eric Steele was Manchester United goalkeeping coach for five years under Sir Alex Ferguson. Talk of the Devils is delighted to welcome him to our studio for a wide-ranging discussion with a man who has coached some of the best goalkeepers in football.From his own slightly unorthodox arrival at the club to the scouting, transfer, and management of David de Gea as Edwin van der Sar's replacement, he
How Ratcliffe’s comments impact Man United
A weekend without Premier League football and, with Manchester United out of the FA Cup, we were expecting a quiet few days. Unfortunately, the club has been in the headlines more than ever, and not in the way most fans would want.In an interview with Sky News at an industrial conference in Antwerp, co-owner and figurehead Sir Jim Ratcliffe gave a view on UK politics and his comments on immigratio
Sesko saves point for Man United at West Ham
Michael Carrick's 100% record as interim Manchester United manager (in this spell, at least) has come to and end. It was a disappointing game when compared to the four wins so far, of course, but how badly should we feel?Let's not forget, it should have been a defeat. Benjamin Sesko rescued a point in Stratford with an innovative finish deep into injury time. Does Sesko have qualities that are use
Man United chasing top three after Spurs win
MUFC's fourth consecutive win continued Michael Carrick's perfect start as Manchester United manager. OK, Spurs held their own until captain "Cristian" Romero was dismissed for a tackle on Casemiro, but the team is growing in confidence and the gap to third (and second) is narrowing.Our Bry found the corner after a neat set-piece routine and the evergreen, ever-prolific, Bruno sealed the win in th
Carrick’s United go for four in a row against Spurs
Lads, it's Tottenham. It's a well-worn phrase for a team that shouldn't be taken seriously; but what to make of this current Spurs team. They remain firmly in the bottom half of the Premier League table and fans are on the edge of mutiny, yet they have sailed through to the last 8 of the Champions League. And, let's not forget, they beat Manchester United four times last season.Instead of that fou
Quiet January, busy summer at Man United?
Premier League journalists have been able to put their feet up during January with only 33 'first-team' transfers taking place. For Manchester United that number is zero, with management deciding the squad they have in place is sufficient for the fixture list that lies ahead.In this TotD Extra podcast, we'll ask how much of a gamble it is to keep the powder dry, how close the club were to securing
Man United beat Fulham with late Sesko strike
Benjamin Sesko has his first Man United moment, scoring an injury-time winner in front of the Stretford End. We're hoping, of course, that it will be the first of many but will he have to wait a little while for his next opportunity? Patience has been as much a virtue for him as any of his physical prowess.At the other end of the spectrum, Casemiro's career at the club is coming to an end. The Bra
Is Fulham a truer test of Carrick’s Man United?
A 'gentle glow' is still lingering over Michael Carrick's Manchester United but, with seventh-placed Fulham coming to Old Trafford this weekend, are we now entering a run of games that will give us a clearer indication as to whether he has turned the team's fortunes around?Tactically, there aren't too many obvious concerns, but Fulham are a big strong side and physicality will be paramount. Becaus
Who are the frontrunners for Man United job?
It's January 2026 and, with things looking up for Manchester United under Michael Carrick, it's time for our first Q&A of the year. Frankly, there's only one question you want an answer to... what will it take for Carrick to get the job full time and, if he doesn't, who are the main candidates?There's a brighter outlook for several players, too. We consider the prospect of Kobbie Mainoo making
Man United win at Arsenal: are they Champions League-bound?
Amazing strikes from a resurgent Patrick Dorgu and supersub Matheus Cunha gave Manchester United a massive win at the Emirates Stadium after Bryan Mbeumo's first half equaliser set Arsenal hearts fluttering.Michael Carrick now has the shortest, most impressive resume, of any interim manager. Is it unfair to completely dismiss him as an option to take the job permanently? And how have the last few
Can Man United end Emirates drought?
What's this? A quiet week in Manchester United world?! Surely not! Yet, there has been little by way of headlines; is this the calming effect of Michael Carrick?Perhaps it's the lack of activity in the transfer market. Manuel Ugarte has been linked with Ajax and there are more than one Italian club keeping an eye on Joshua Zirkzee, but with no long-term transfer targets on the market a first-team
What next for Man United after statement derby win?
Here it is, almost 48 hours after the final whistle (sorry!), we're here to properly dissect the magnificent performance from Michael Carrick's mighty reds in the Manchester Derby.From Maguire and Martinez, Bruno, Casemiro, super sub Cunha, and "ballon" Dorgu there were top marks across the board as United 'pulverised' City into submission. It's a huge game, of course, and a heightened atmosphere
Can Carrick’s Man United lift the mood against City?
Michael Carrick is the new Head Coach, interim or otherwise, of Manchester United. How will he change the way the team plays and is the target of qualifying for the Champions League, stated explicitly to players by Director of Football Jason Wilcox, really achievable now?It will be a baptism of fire for Carrick and his staff with Manchester City coming to Old Trafford on Saturday lunchtime. Will
What would Carrick move say about Man United’s leadership?
Darren Fletcher's brief stint in charge of Manchester United's first team may be over after a draw at Burnley and an FA Cup third round exit to Brighton. His (expected) departure saw some stern-sounding words for the playing staff after the game on Sunday; will he continue as part of a longer-term interim coaching team?Michael Carrick is now favourite to take the helm, having stepped in with some
Who will be Manchester United's new interim head coach?
The first few specks of dust have settled on the sacking of Ruben Amorim, and while Darren Fletcher will be in charge for the FA Cup match against Brighton at Old Trafford, thoughts now turn to who will take the helm until the end of the season.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is interested, but would that be a regressive step, and will the atmosphere be significantly different to the last time he stepped in.
REACTION: Man United sack Ruben Amorim
EMERGENCY PODCAST INCOMINGHere we go again: it's an unscheduled, perhaps unexpected, extra episode of Talk of the Devils with reaction to the news - first reported by The Athletic's David Ornstein - that Manchester United have sacked Ruben Amorim. Youth team manager and former player Darren Fletcher will take charge of first-team affairs until further notice.Amorim's reign lasted 1
Amorim comments overshadow Leeds draw
Leeds away; a 'bear pit' negotiated with several first-choice players missing. Off the back of a dodgy festive period, ordinarily you'd take your point and run.Yet, the game was almost a footnote today in the context of Ruben Amorim's comments during both his pre- and post-match press conferences. His usually outward demeanour a little different; bleak statements about the transfer window, cryptic
Man United disappoint again in drab Wolves draw
They're desperately short of players, and in isolation perhaps you could excuse it, but Man United's one-all draw with (statistically speaking) one of the worst Premier League teams in history fits a pattern of nearly-but-not-quite this season.As we arrive in 2026, what can we expect from Ruben Amorim's team, and what standard should we demand? Is the Champions League too big an ask for a side tha
Dorgu volley takes Man United to fifth
A Patrick Dorgu volley gave Manchester United a half-time lead against Newcastle at Old Trafford and, well, you know the rest.The second half wasn't pretty, and Ruben Amorim's substitutions did more than raise eyebrows, but frankly, who cares?!With Wolves next, United are up to fifth in the Premier League, but will need to get players back as soon as possible. Can you name the line-up who finished
Man United without Bruno: can they adapt?
Every Manchester United loss, and there have been a few. in the last 12 months has prompted some sort of inquest or soul-searching... until now.United were certainly the better team in the first half at Villa Park, maybe the second as well, but they allowed two moments of quality from the Premier League's most in-form player to decide the game in Aston Villa's favour.Of more concern than losing to
Is Bruno Fernandes irreplaceable at Man United?
Bruno Fernandes' interview with Portuguese TV's Canal 11 (run by the national football federation) caused some consternation at Manchester United this week. How dramatic were his claims, translation and context allowing, and is it time to consider a life without Bruno?He'll be as important as he's ever been over the next few weeks with Amad and Mbeumo's goal threat heading to AFCON. Their departur
Man United’s mad 4-4 draw: a full breakdown
Wowsers... what a thrill ride... what a rollercoaster! Do you like rollercoasters? Sure you do.Ruben Amorim's Manchester United put in one of the best attacking performances since he took charge of the team. The passing and movement of players throughout the team caused real problems for Bournemouth as Mbeumo, Cunha, and of course, Bruno, put them to the sword.Unfortunately, the formation/system/s
What does Mainoo’s situation say about modern Man United?
Kobbie Mainoo, whether or not he should be allowed to leave the club, and how to accommodate his talents into a system that doesn't seem naturally suited to them. It is a debate that has come to represent more than just the future of one capable young footballer. Where do we stand now, what is likely to happen next, and how do we feel about it?The next generation of Manchester United's academy mov
Man United win emphatically at Wolves after wobble
A win at Wolves, a convincing win. OK, it wasn't entirely trouble-free, but United scored four and put the game to bed comfortably in the second half; they are now sixth in the Premier League, a point behind Crystal Palace in fourth and separated from a potential Champions League-qualifying fifth place by goal difference.Mason Mount, if he can be described this way, was the star of the show. Scori
Why have Man United missed another opportunity at Old Trafford?
West Ham haven't won away from home since beating their now-manager Nuno Espirito Santo's Nottingham Forest at the end of August, so this looked like a game where Manchester United could capitalise on an encouraging second half at Selhurst Park, get a win and climb the Premier League table.In fact, despite a 'turgid' start, that was how it was proceeding when Diogo Dalot controlled a bobbling ball
Mount and Zirkzee lead Man United comeback
Well, isn't this nice... Manchester United win away, in South London, and you can take the first bite out of your advent calendar while you listen to four happy podcasters praise the performances of Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount and, yes, Joshua Zirkzee.It was a remarkable turnaround at Selhurst Park, very much not a happy hunting ground for United in recent years. But, whether it was because of Pa
Can Man United bounce back at Palace?
The Everton result has sparked a new wave of soul-searching, but is it fair to feel so dispirited by one result against a competent Premier League team. Or, are we still not being harsh enough to an underperforming manager? Doubtless, you have a fairly strong opinion one way or the other.We decided to try and raise a bit of a laugh with a hastily devised parlour game; a series of United "would you
Mailbag: Semenyo release clause and Rooney the artist
A second November Q&A for you lucky devils. OK, the mood isn't great after Everton but a few juicy January transfer morsels might perk us up. Should we be worried that transfers are the main source of optimism, though?What about a fantasy dinner party with three United players? It could be magical, as long as they don't start fighting amongst themselves...Also under discussion; the shortage of
Questions over Amorim return after Everton defeat
On Monday night Everton became the first side to win at Old Trafford in the Premier League having had a man sent off. To say that doesn't tell the whole story is somewhat of an understatement.The bizarre events that lead to a red card for Idrissa Gueye haven't been seen for a long, long time (only twice before in the Premier League, in fact). However, what followed was scarily familiar to Manchest
Man United prepare for a month without Sesko
The last 48 hours of international football has provided some incredible drama. Laurie Whitwell travelled halfway around the world to witness a 0-0 draw between Jamaica and Curacao (which was more exciting than it sounds, tbf) while Denmark, featuring Patrick Dorgu and Rasmus Hojlund, were beaten to World Cup qualification by Scott McTominay and Scotland.As we return to domestic affairs, the club
Can Man United push on after international break?
It's been a slightly busier international break than usual and, with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro both putting in leading performances, we consider the prospects for a continued effort into Christmas with Manchester United. There's also news of a disappointment for Bryan Mbeumo and a report from Jamaica(!) who will face Curacao in a winner-takes-all showdown in CONCACAF qualifying for World Cup 20
Inside Ruben Amorim’s first year at Man United
Ruben Amorim was appointed by Manchester United, seemingly in a flash, twelve months ago to replace outgoing manager Erik Ten Hag. But why then, rather than the end of the season? And was anyone else seriously considered? A year later, and after an incredibly tempestuous spell so far, it looks like the storm has eased and the first team are plotting a healthier course.In this special focussed disc
De Ligt rescues point at Spurs
A result, and a performance, that felt very familiar. Leading, then trailing, and rounded off with a late equaliser, Amorim's Manchester United reminded us (again) that they are a work in progress and that you can't believe the league table at half-time.So here we are, again, praising Casemiro, but wondering if he has another five or ten minutes in him. We believe in Benjamin Sesko, but not withou
Are United ready to avenge Bilbao?
It's a hectic time for the Talk of the Devils crew, with two more live shows coming up next week in Manchester (sold out) and Walthamstow (last few tickets here), but Andy found time to squeeze in a Radiohead gig in Madrid; clearly, it's had a profound effect.Ruben Amorim's Manchester United have one thing on their minds, winning at Spurs. It might actually be easier to achieve that in North Londo
Mailbag: midfield moves and Mitten in Morocco
November has arrived and, while there haven't been any major fireworks yet, we're feeling much better about Manchester United under Ruben Amorim.In this extra episode, we've opened the floor to questions and you've delivered once again. So, whether it's the immediate future of midfield, reporting on the club as a fan, or the weather at AFCON, we cover plenty of ground.Join us next Tuesday (11th No
Man United draw at Forest: Point gained?
Manchester United salvaged a draw at the City Ground, home of Nottingham Forest, with a fantastic volley from Amad Diallo (his first goal of the season) and could have gone on to win the game late on with Forest defenders scrambling to deny the same player.But, in the same game, they had thrown away a one-nil lead with ninety seconds of madness just after half-time. So, was this a case of a point
Has Amorim adapted his system?
Three wins in a row, confidence seeping back into players, and an encouraging set of fixtures over the next few weeks. Life is so much brighter now for Manchester United fans, but is there still a fragility to the mood, and is the football sustainable?Ruben Amorim's critics are, naturally, quieter than they were. But what has brought about the change in form? Is it the manager's stubborn resolve f
Can we be optimistic about Man United again?
Back, to back, to back. If Sunderland was relief, and Liverpool was elation, what does a win at home to Brighton mean? Does it mean Manchester United are now good again, and does it mean we can be genuinely optimistic about this season?Mark Critchley WAS at Old Trafford with Carl Anka on Saturday and they are in the studio with Ian while Andy joins us online from Spain. Everyone was delighted to s
Bogey team Brighton another big test for Utd
As the warm glow of jubilation fades after Anfield... OK, maybe just one more quick spin around the happiness block!But with a quick mental ice bath of our own, thoughts quickly turn to a game against Brighton at Old Trafford... one that, with good reason, still gives cause for trepidation. Carlos Baleba thinks he has rediscovered his old self just in time to show Mancunians what he is capable of.
Manchester United win at Anfield
The title says it all; after more than nine years and ten failed attempts, Manchester United have beaten Liverpool at Anfield. We savour every moment from Bryan Mbeumo's goal just seconds after the final whistle to Harry Maguire heading in the winner from Bruno Fernandes special volley-cross.It was a 90-minute performance and it was a team performance; the boys from Brazil jetted back (from South
Can Man Utd expose Liverpool’s weaknesses?
We've completed the first leg of our live-show tour with dates in Belfast, Dublin, and Cork. Ian and Laurie are back at home feeling the effects, Andy continues on a bit more of a trek having paced himself, and Carl has wisely allowed himself a day off.No rest for Manchester United's international stars, though. Mixed results for the club's players in African World Cup qualifying Even Andy's mile
Is a Man United full sale realistic?
October international break can only mean one thing, seemingly random news stories about Manchester United. This time it’s the ownership in focus. Coming to you from the boardroom in Dublin, the team break away from the Talk of the Devils Live tour to discuss claims the club might be for sale.With Sir Jim Ratcliffe looking to make a new stadium his lasting legacy at Manchester United, fan surveys
Ratcliffe on Amorim & Academy in focus
We've said it before, no doubt we'll say it again... just when you think Manchester United are going to have a quiet week, something happens! This time it was minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe talking at length to a new business podcast from The Times (https://podfollow.com/the-business).The emphasis of Sir Jim's words may have been distorted by headline writers, but he did say he wants to give Rub
Mailbag: Amorim's system, season so far, best chippy in town
October international break and it's time for another Talk of the Devils Extra, this time it's an audience Q&A.So, after another healthy response from you all we cover the season so far, whether we'd swap the Brentford/Chelsea results, why the team are swapping ends, and Amorim's system.There's also an update on the best chippy in Manchester (albeit not a definitive one), Carl's preferred driv
Sesko & Mount goals settle nerves at Old Trafford
Saturday saw a "routine" win for Manchester United at Old Trafford, if there can be such a thing under Ruben Amorim. The head coach was certainly not under that impression, saying there's "no momentum" for his team.Nevertheless, it was a good result and an encouraging performance. Senne Lammens made an excellent impression on Premier League debut; not perfect, but reassured, and that composure hel
Man Utd’s stadium plans, Saudi Friendlies & Sunderland at Old Trafford
Laurie Whitwell taking a day off? As if that would happen. Our resident newshound stepped back into the breach despite a scheduled absence to tell us all about potential changes to development plans for a new Old Trafford and plans for.a mid-season friendly in Saudi Arabia.Ruben Amorim's future has been the source of increased speculation in the media, and throughout the fanbase, but noises from w
