Talk of the Devils: The Athletic FC's Manchester United show

It's difficult to believe it now, but there was a healthy degree of confidence going into the latest edition of the Manchester derby. Yes, Ruben Amorim's United are still a work-in-progress, but they are slowly improving, and City are going through the mill a bit as well, right?That's not how it turned out at all. Despite a half-decent first fifteen minutes and a brief flicker after half-time, Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, and the rest of City's attackers "feasted" as United faltered in the key moments. It was a sobering, numbing experience for everyone in red, one that has us "spiralling".It was a bad day for the fans and the players, but it felt especially difficult for Amorim. He faced questions, again, about his dedication to a formation that doesn't seem to play to the strengths of his players. He himself, as he often does, raised the idea that his future at the club might be in doubt. Tongue in cheek, perhaps… but when do the serious questions come? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the first Manchester derby of the new season and, coming quite early in proceedings, there are lots of interesting question marks hanging over both teams.Firstly, there's the issue of form and fitness: there was relatively little action on the international front for the two squads but there are a couple of fresh injury concerns.Then, there's the tactical battle. Ruben Amorim has fared well against Pep Guardiola so far in his managerial career; his Manchester United first team is still a "work in progress". but there are reasons to be optimistic about the match-up this time as well.And, of course, there's the question of goalkeepers. Both sides signed a new 'keeper late in the transfer window, so there could potentially be debutants lining up behind either defence. Will Amorim stick with Bayindir or throw Lammens in at the deepest of deep ends, and has Donnarumma had enough training time to do himself justice?Tickets for Talk of the Devils LIVE:Belfast (The Limelight) – October 12, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsDublin (Vicar Street) – October 13, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsCork (Opera House) – October 14, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsManchester (New Century Hall) – November 10, 2025: SOLD OUTLondon (Soho Theatre, Walthamstow) – November 11, 2025: Click here to buy tickets Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andre Onana has joined Turkish side Trabzonspor on loan in a shock post-UK-transfer-deadline move. Broadcaster Engin Kehale tells us about the Super Lig's goalkeeping carousel, but does that mean he has played his last game for Manchester United?It sounds like good news for Senne Lammens. The young Belgian has had to be patient to get his chance at domestic level in his home country but things have suddenly moved very quickly for him. We get the inside track on his progress from local journalist Axel Brisart.United's women's team hit the ground runnning exactly as planned in WSL and, with news of another (more cryptic) carousel, we look at the activities, or lack of, from United's players on international duty. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Premier League is taking a break for international fixtures so it's a chance for us to take stock. High on the agenda, of course, how Manchester United's new signings will fare now that we know the make-up of the squad until January, at least.Most pressingly, there are concerns about options in midfield. Louis Saha thinks that area could affect the whole team, not least Benjamin Sesko as he takes on the tough task of filling the centre forward position at a tender age. Might there be a midfield solution from within the squad?Two midfielders, England Lionesses no less, have swapped sides of the Manchester divide. Is it a sign of progress that MUWFC haven't lost another player without a fee, or is it poor squad management? Charlotte Harpur joins us to consider the two sides of that argument, "plane-gate", Brann, and the WSL season.Talk of the Devils LIVE:Belfast (The Limelight) – October 12, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsDublin (Vicar Street) – October 13, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsCork (Opera House) – October 14, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsManchester (New Century Hall) – November 10, 2025: SOLD OUTLondon (Soho Theatre, Walthamstow) – November 11, 2025: Click here to buy tickets Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manchester United bought a goalkeeper on transfer deadline day and it was the young Belgian Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp. The transfer went through despite late whispers of a switch to Emi Martinez and Aston Villa's Argentinian was left hanging on the phone.With sales required, the club were able to move all but Tyrell Malacia from Ruben Amorim's "bomb squad" and we are all left with a satisfactory impression of the business achieved across the window; even Rasmus Hojlund's move can be viewed in a positive light for both club and player.That's not to say it couldn't have been better, though. There is still a bit more than a nagging feeling about the options available in midfield and it's going to take time to evolve the team and the squad to a fully rounded one. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manchester United's men won their first game of football this season (the women won, too; more on that soon). Where Grimsby had started to feel like Ruben Amorim might be reaching his Old Trafford endgame, Bruno's late penalty saw off Burnley and the feeling is very different going into the international break.There were many positives; Bryan Mbeumo, the whole first half display, and the creation of several major opportunities. Unfortunately, there were a few old worries as well; the conversion (or not) of those opportunities, and another unconvincing display by an MUFC goalkeeper.With the UK transfer deadline looming, things are starting to happen for the "bomb squad". Alejandro Garnacho has joined Chelsea, Rasmus Hojlund is Italy-bound with a deal on the cards there. Meanwhile, Spain could be the destination for both Antony and Tyrell Malacia. As for Jadon Sancho, who knows?! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This isn't the first time we've used the phrase "a new low" in recent years, not by a long way, but it's difficult to see us using it again soon.Amorim's United were dominated by fourth-tier Grimsby Town as the hosts took a deserved 2-0 lead in the first half of their Carabao Cup second round tie.Despite fighting back to draw level, new signings Cunha & Mbeumo missed in a penalty shootout loss. After the game, Ruben Amorim's cryptic comments invited speculation that he may be questioning his future at the club. Where do we go from here? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oh no, are we doing this again?! After a positive opening day performance in defeat at home to Arsenal. hopes were high as United's faithful headed South for the annual raid of Craven Cottage. Unfortunately, after a decent start, some old habits crept back in and it started to feel worryingly like last season.Part of the problem was a penalty miss by Bruno, who had a strange day, and represents the most high profile of several midfield riddles for Ruben Amorim. Stick or twist with your talisman... and who to play along side him?As the first team head to Cleethorpes for their first League Cup Second Round tie in two decades the question of reinforcements, specifically in midfield and in goal, continues to dominate the conversation. It could be a busy few days in the transfer market! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A few days on from Manchester United’s defeat to Arsenal, Ian Irving is joined by Andy Mitten, Laurie Whitwell and Carl Anka to unpack the big talking points. From United’s uncertain goalkeeping situation to the impact of the new signings, the panel debate where the team really stands — and ask the burning question: where was Kobbie Mainoo?We also dive into Carl’s analysis of Matthijs de Ligt, hear from Andy’s conversation with Harry Maguire, and get Laurie’s take on United’s new academy director, Steven Torpey.And with Fulham up next, the lads look ahead to Craven Cottage — is this where United’s season really begins?Come to our live shows in the Autumn:Belfast (The Limelight) – October 12, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsDublin (Vicar Street) – October 13, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsCork (Opera House) – October 14, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsManchester (New Century Hall) – November 10, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsLondon (Soho Theatre, Walthamstow) – November 11, 2025: Click here to buy tickets Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another Premier League season begins, and it's another home defeat for Amorim's Manchester United. The stats don't look good, but you can make stats say anything...We're actually feeling quite upbeat about things in general. New signings Cunha and Mbeumo played well individually and within the team. If there's to be no Baleba at Old Trafford this season, maybe there are a few believers in the midfielders already at the club.Of course, there are always worries. Right now the number one concern is, well, the number one shirt. Altay Bayindir made a high profile "error" to concede the winning goal, prompting tense exchanges in Ruben Amorim's post-match press conference. Will it provoke a foray into the market? And what about Utd's other transfer targets, not to mention the players they'd like to move on?Come to our live shows in the Autumn:Belfast (The Limelight) – October 12, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsDublin (Vicar Street) – October 13, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsCork (Opera House) – October 14, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsManchester (New Century Hall) – November 10, 2025: Click here to buy ticketsLondon (Soho Theatre, Walthamstow) – November 11, 2025: Click here to buy tickets Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the eve of the Premier League season: at Manchester United, Omar Berrada and Ruben Amorim have addressed staff as they do everything possible to hit the ground running. While there are a few nagging doubts, the mood is good and there is real hope of positive change.Will the team change much? Ruben Amorim has been criticised for sticking rigidly to his system but he can, of course, name a completely new front three. Pre-season was encouraging and, while the likes of Carlos Baleba would be more than welcome, fears of another season like the last have receded significantly.The opening league fixture will be a tough one, though, with Arsenal heading to Old Trafford bolstered by new signings including midfielder Martin Zubimendi and Ruben Amorim's former striker Viktor Gyokeres. But, will the Gunners' set-pieces once again provide the number one threat? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manchester United have got their man... again! Benjamin Sesko (pronounced Ben-ya-min Sheshko) met the Old Trafford crowd before the final pre-season game against Fiorentina (featuring David de Gea) and United's £200m revamp of their frontline is now complete.It's not just the frontline that's had a lick of paint. The rejuvenated training facilities at Carrington were unveiled on Friday and, despite holidays for the whole podcast team, we had boots on the ground in the shape of Mark Critchley.So, is that it for renovations? Well, maybe not! Brighton's Carlos Baleba has been heavily linked to provide a shot in the arm of United's midfield, and rumours of a move for a goalkeeper won't quite disappear either. With time running out before the new Premier League season, there could yet be a twist or two in this transfer window. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ruben Amorim met with the press pack at the end of the Premier League's US Summer Series for a wide-ranging discussion encompassing his tenure so far, how things are progressing ahead of the new season, his relationship with the owner, and more.United actually won the Summer Series trophy but their faces didn't seem to know after a slightly underwhelming performance against Everton. Captain Bruno Fernandes spoke out after the game, asking for reinforcements to provide competition and combat laziness.Will Benjamin Sesko be just that? The situation is no clearer than it was a few days ago with Newcastle bidding for the player but no tangible move yet from the hierarchy at Old Trafford. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manchester United's pursuit of a centre forward, to complete a brand new front three, stepped up a notch this week with the news that Benjamin Sesko is their prime target. We mull over what might have triggered that acceleration, whether his form stacks up, and how they might be able to afford him at his 2025 price.Over in Chicago, the lads are cuddled up in the Felix Hotel business suite having savoured the sights and sounds of the Windy City. Ruben Amorim's squad are also enjoying America with another good pre-season showing and Bryan Mbeumo getting closer to some action for Manchester. Even Rasmus Hojlund seems energised and unworried about incoming transfers.It's all a far cry from the aftermath of Bilbao, the end of a season that everyone knew couldn't be allowed to happen again. Luke Shaw let his hot temper out on a hot mic that night but while he doesn't regret his words, he's much happier about things now and feels ready to get back to his best. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A victory over West Ham in the first game of the US tour, and a very encouraging performance from Amorim's developing squad. We were impressed by the interplay and structure, the partnerships showing promise, and the warm familiarity of Bruno bagging a brace.Having played 70 minutes in New Jersey's Metlife Stadium, we're now wondering how close that starting eleven will be to the one that faces Arsenal on the opening day of the Premier League season... Might the bomb squad return to the fold? Amorim says they could, but do we really believe that?Bryan Mbeumo is getting up to speed, so he could feature soon, but Diego Cunha looks nailed on for the left-side ten role and we have the most spectacular name to drop in our research on the lively, talented Brazilian. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's time for the pre-season tour and we're delighted that Andy and Laurie will both be in attendance; as will Manchester United's newest signing, Bryan Mbeumo! It wasn't quite on the B of the bang but United got their man in the end and he will be able to acclimatise with his new teammates in the USA.Marcus Rashford won't be there. He is the first member of "the bomb squad' to agree a deal to leave the club, and it's his dream destination. But beware; settling in Barcelona has proven tricky for some great footballers, so how can he make the loan a successful one?We also pick out a few clues from the game against Leeds in Sweden and consider whether there can be any more incoming transfers before another significant departure. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pre-season is here which can only mean one thing... injury disruption. Yes, ahead of the first game (against Leeds in Solna) the news broke that Andre Onana has suffered a hamstring strain. But will he be back in time for the Arsenal game, and what does it mean for the 'keeping department?The podcast team have been putting their last football-free weekend to good use, but what (and who) are they most looking forward to seeing now that it has returned. How will this pre-season measure up to some of the more enjoyable, and interesting, in years gone by.There may be some clues in the shirt numbers on show. How much does it matter what number each player gets, when might it become a problem, and who have been the biggest sellers in the club shop? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pre-season is here and Ruben Amorim has his work cut out after his disastrous first few months in charge, but what, precisely, does he need to achieve before the Premier League resumes in mid-August?The training squad is five lighter after Rashford, Sancho, Garnacho, Antony, and Malacia were given extra time away to find new clubs, so where does new no. 10 Cunha fit and how strong is each department looking?There's no doubting the anxiety after Bilbao and bust, so what are we hoping for this term? Is top half good enough, or is a higher target required? With no European football, what about the cups? And who, from our team, has the wildest take on the coming season? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manchester United's pre-season training starts this Monday, but it will begin without five players. Five players with different profiles, salaries, and ages, but with one thing in common; they are considered surplus to requirements by Ruben Amorim.We take a look at each individual case, their personal circumstances, who might be interested in buying them, and whether it was a good idea for the club to make such a bold statement at this time.Don't forget to subscribe on Youtube... https://www.youtube.com/@TOTDevils...and join us on the socials...https://www.instagram.com/totdevilshttps://www.tiktok.com/@totdevils Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exciting times at TotD Towers as we launch on not one but three social media platforms. Some listeners have been asking to see us on Youtube for a while, well now you can... and we're on Instagram and TikTok to boot.https://www.youtube.com/@TOTDevilshttps://www.instagram.com/totdevilshttps://www.tiktok.com/@totdevilsOn today's show, the Bryan Mbeumo transfer negotiation is in danger of becoming a saga, but what's true and what's bluster? Plus, what is the nature of Manchester United's interest in Ollie Watkins?With pre-season starting next week, we also get into the details of Darren Fletcher's new job and why he might be choosing to take it now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The longest day has come and gone but we are now deep into silly season, the transfer-rumour-ridden hinterland that chases the end of the previous season out of town.Manchester United may or may not have made an improved bid for Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, and may or may not have had a discussion with the representatives of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez. After Mbeumo, the plan is to sell before buying, but it has been an 'interesting' few days for the players expected to leave the club.We also dig into the mailbag where there was a powerful response to the ticket price hikes and categorisation of league matches and take on the tricky task of mapping out the women's team's route through European qualifying. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's a midsummer special on the week of the longest day of the year (if only there was a proper name for it...)It's also pretty much square in the middle of Manchester United's summer break, with a month gone since last season and a month until the first pre-season fixture. The Premier League fixtures were announced this morning and we react to a tough start!Andy has been speaking to Omar Berrada, at great length, about his plans for the club and we consider his performance, both in the interview and in the job.Finally, sort of, there's a glimpse into Carl's breakdown of Ruben Amorim's ideal striker and whether he can buy one who matches up in reality. The "sort of" is because we have an extra bit with Ian and Andy reacting to the news that ticket prices for individual fixtures will go up next season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We made it to the end... a season that will be remembered for many years to come, for all the wrong reasons, is finally over.But who actually deserves some credit for sticking to their task, inspiring their teammates, and just generally defying the general trend of underperformance?We choose our player of the season (who isn't Bruno), the goal that moved us, the standout moment, the podcast highlight, and mint a special award for a very special man. All with the help of your suggestions.Hasta luego! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In your podcatchers a day earlier than planned, it's a transfer junkie special (especially for Andy) with news that Bruno has decided to stay at Old Trafford top of the shop.Meanwhile, the Matheus Cunha deal is done and another right-sided forward impressing in the Premier League, Bryan Mbeumo, also wants to join the club (that's according to our colleague David Ornstein).The price tags on those two forwards presumably requires some transfer income. We have a think about all the candidates but especially Jadon Sancho after Chelsea decided to take a £5m hit rather than progress his loan deal to a permanent transfer.Send us your nominations for "Player of the season who isn't Bruno", "Goal that got you", "Standout moment", and "Podcast highlight of the season". [email protected]. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a few extra days, the season we all want to forget is finally over. Not that that means there's no news.Matheus Cunha looks poised to become a Manchester United player, but might it be one Portuguese speaker for another with Bruno Fernandes apparently giving consideration to a hefty contract offer from Saudi Arabia's Al Hilal.And, while the post-season tour wasn't the most eventful in the club's history, there was certainly plenty to pick through. Luckily for us, Laurie has been on location to report on a defeat and a late rally on the field as well as some interesting extracurricular happenings.The Athletic would like your feedback on our podcasts including Talk of the Devils: click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's our first podcast since the calamities of Bilbao, and we're not just talking about the football. Who is responsible for the series of events which led to leaving hundreds, maybe thousands, of fans stranded in a city that had essentially closed for business?Ruben Amorim's future had even seemed up in the air after that game, but it seems he has been reassured of his future by Manchester United's execs. He used the authority lent him by this vote of confidence to give Alejandro Garnacho marching orders. The Argentinian winger, and his entourage, were publicly critical of the head coach, which appears to have crossed a line. Fan reaction was mixed.The team went on to play Champions League chasers Aston Villa on Sunday before jetting off to Asia. The clean sheet and comfortable victory at Old Trafford was met with raised eyebrows as much as anything else, but Amorim addressed the crowd to a positive reaction... Now for the difficult part. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was supposed to be party time; 24 hours in a cultural and culinary paradise, taking the edge off an awful season. Instead we're left wondering what happens next... for the team, the players, even the manager.Ange Postecoglu's Spurs are the Europa League champions, they will play Champions League football next season and represent the Premier League in the European Super Cup... Manchester United will have to come to terms with the sporting, commercial, and financial, realities of a 40-game diet of domestic football.Although there is one more game, one we're now dreading against a very good Villa side, the loss in Bilbao feels like a line drawn under a dreadful season. It may yet lead to lines drawn under some tenures at the club. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You asked for it; here it is. We manifested a dramatic European night at Old Trafford and a monumental victory away from home against Athletic Club.Now, as the team (and the fans) return to Bilbao for the Europa League final, we're going back through history to catalogue the eight previous showpiece games.Featuring the most famous Champions League final of all time, bar none, here are the highs and occasional lows of Man United's history in Euro finals.1991 Rotterdam Revisited is available to watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKyw2-fCeFU&pp=ygUPMTk5MSByZXZpc2l0aWVk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here it is, then: the match that will define the season, even if it's impossible to save. It's the match that could well dictate the future of Ruben Amorim at United and the next chapter of the club's history.If that makes you nervous, you're not alone.The team's performance at Chelsea on Friday night has us worried about all sorts of things, from personnel to tactics, to Ange. Still, at least Spurs have just as many worries.One thing we are absolutely definitely looking forward to is visiting the great city of Bilbao and there's nobody better to show us around than Basque geographer and historian, Andreu Mittxen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the second of a two-part Talk of the Devils Extra, a detailed history of the controversial purchase and subsequent ownership of Manchester United by American investor Malcolm Glazer and his six children.Part one, referenced heavily in this conversation, tells the story of the Glazer takeover in 2005 with contributions from three key perspectives; fan activist Andy Walsh, former Labour Minister for Sport Richard Caborn, and ex-United board member, economist Jim O'Neill.Now we will bring the story up to the present day, analyse the impact of the Glazer era, the relationship between the Glazers and minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, get a glimpse of the Glazers in Tampa Bay, and try to forecast the future of United's ownership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to this special two-part Talk of the Devils Extra, a detailed history of the controversial purchase and subsequent ownership of Manchester United by American investor Malcolm Glazer and his six children.This first part will recount the events leading up to the Glazer takeover in 2005 with contributions from three key perspectives; fan activist Andy Walsh, former Labour Minister for Sport Richard Caborn, and United board member, economist Jim O'Neill.In part two to follow 24 hours later we will bring the story up to the present day, analyse the relationship between the Glazers and minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, and try to forecast the future of United's ownership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manchester United suffered their 17th defeat of the Premier League season with manager Ruben Amorim struggling to contain his frustration at a team that, while headed for a European final, don't have the right "feeling" when it comes to losing in the league.We talk about how we feel as fans when the team plays this far below expectations, and commiserate someone who has voluntarily restricted himself to a diet of league-only football at Old Trafford this season.This coming weekend, the women's team are headed to Wembley with invincible WSL winners Chelsea between them and the Mitten Standard, while we can barely bring ourselves to consider what might happen at Stamford Bridge on Friday night. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mason Mount had his best moment in his injury-hit United career so far and then twenty minutes later he had an even better one as Ruben Amorim's men recovered from a rocky start to, eventually, cruise into the Europa League final.Low on confidence and struggling to get out of their own third, it took a triple sub from the manager to liven up the performance, but the impact was almost instantaneous. Bookended by the two Mount goals, Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund also scored, making it a remarkable 7-1 on aggregate against an accomplished Athletic Club.So it's another trip to Bilbao, this time to face Tottenham on May 21st; an opponent United haven't beaten since October 2022. Will it play out as a Premier League fixture might? We're not so sure. West Ham probably will on Sunday, though. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Manchester United's terrible run of form in the Premier League continued at Brentford as a VERY youthful side lost 4-3. Alejandro Garnacho had a good day, as did Mason Mount, but it's all a bit 'Groundhog Day' and we're not too perturbed by the result.We will, however, be disconsolate if Amorim's men are not able to defend their three goal lead going into the second leg of the Europa League semi-final against Athletic Club.Champions League football is the prize, of course. Manchester United's women achieved that at City's expense with a battling draw in the Manchester derby at Old Trafford. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Harry Maguire, we have now established, can do anything he wishes. From ball-winning centre-half, to aerial target man, to tricksy winger...After a nervy first twenty minutes in Bilbao, Maguire (wide on the right) turned, turned again, and delivered the cross which Casemiro eventually headed home. Then came the Bruno show.A nerveless penalty, won by Rasmus Hojlund, before bursting through to add a third first-half goal, the skipper's stats are astonishing. More importantly, Manchester United are on the brink of a Europa League final. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ruben Amorim's Manchester United team head to Bilbao on Thursday night for the first leg of a Europa League semi-final that will define this season, but what are United's greatest European away days?From the early days of Best and Busby, touched of course by the Munich air disaster, through the lean years, the Fergie era, and one or two modern classics, there are many great performances to choose from.When it comes to Europe, though, it's not just about the football. Exploring beautiful cities, different cultures, missed connections, and the occasional drink, there's so much more to relive than Roy Keane just doing his job in Turin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rasmus Hojlund remained on the pitch for the entire game at Bournemouth which meant he was able to scramble home United's latest ever equaliser. We talk momentum and social media off the back of a familiar-ish team display at the Vitality Stadium.Next up, of course, it's the most important game of the season, away at Athletic Club. Andy's man in the Basque country gives us the inside track on an opposition full of confidence but maybe looking a bit leggy.And, it's another Whitwell scoop with details on the latest staffing cuts at the club. Not entirely unexpected, but interesting timing and it looks like significant changes to scouting/recruitment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's a strange time for Manchester United and it's confusing the mood of our podcasters, so much so that Laurie seems to want to get Andy talking about trains...We're so excited about Matheus Cunha that we are comparing him to both Cantona and Messi, but we're also nervous about his recent tendency to fly off the handle. The Athletic's Steve Madeley provides expert insight.Meanwhile, we're very energised by the prospect of a Europa League semi-final against Athletic Club, but we are deeply concerned about the ability of that same squad to get a result at Bournemouth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the Lord Mayor's show. Manchester United returned to earth with a bump on Sunday as in-form Wolves won at Old Trafford.Ruben Amorim blooded Tyler Fredicson; he and Harry Amass acquitted themselves well, but it was another tough afternoon for Rasmus Hojlund.Still, we'll always have Thursday night. To cheer ourselves up, we went back through the email inbox for more memories of that remarkable comeback against Lyon.Send us your favourite MUFC European away days: [email protected] (put EXTRA in the subject line). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The short version is that Ruben Amorim's Manchester United beat Lyon to progress to the Europa League semi-finals, where they will face Athletic Club. The long version... wow!Cruising at 2-0 after an hour, the team suffered not one but two implosions; the first to take the game to extra time, then another to find themselves four-two down against ten men.Strikerless, subs used, needing a miracle; Amorim got three. Casemiro won a penalty, converted by his captain (the 5,000th Utd goal at Old Trafford), and the Brazilian then laid on goals for makeshift strikers Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire, leaving the stadium, and fans watching on TV around the world, in equal measures of disbelief and rapture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we anticipate a crucial second leg against Lyon at Old Trafford on Thursday night, with Europa League progress (and the team's season) on the line, we look back at some of the Theatre of Dreams' greatest European hits.From the pioneering efforts of Sir Matt Busby, touched by tragedy, through Fergie's agony and ecstasy, to Ten Hag's beating of Barca, it's a rich history packed with thrills, hilarity, and frustration.It's not just Manchester United, either, some of the game's greats have graced the Manchester turf. Join us for a whistle-stop tour of the best... no, the best of the best, moments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A chastening 4-1 defeat away at Newcastle is not a result that anyone at Manchester United would want to consider acceptable, nor do they. But, perhaps there are more important things to worry about right now... as Andre Onana may testify.In fact, there were one or two little glimpses of positivity: Garnacho's excellent finish and the move that led to his equaliser, as well as Harry Amass's performance on Premier League debut.However, Joshua Zirkzee might not want to face Newcastle again in a hurry; his hamstring injury counts as a blow as Ruben Amorim's main objective, progress in the Europa League, looms large. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After Joshua Zirkzee nodded home from a magnificent lifted pass by Bruno, giving Manchester United the lead in Lyon with moments left, we began putting together a triumphant podcast.Unfortunately, there was still time in the Europa League quarter final first leg for Andre Onana to concede; all this coming after a war of words with Nemanja Matic and a bad first-half error to gift Thiago Almada the opening goal.Judging by Ruben Amorim's comments, there's a non-zero chance Altay Bayindir will start the game at Newcastle. More importantly, there's a pretty good chance Manchester United will progress to the Europa League semi-final stage.For more information about Talk of the Devils on tour: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6235043/2025/03/31/talk-of-the-devils-2025-tour-dates-uk-ireland/ (no subscription required) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

United and City played out a dull 0-0 draw at Old Trafford, with both sides lacking cutting edge. City, without the injured Haaland, couldn’t break down a well-organised defence. United will be happy to finish with a clean sheet, having conceded 17 in their nine previous league matches at Old Trafford under Ruben Amorim.Garnacho was United’s main outlet but wasteful and a decent Zirkzee effort was well saved by Ederson. De Bruyne — set to leave City this summer — couldn’t provide a spark in a flat game.City stay fifth in the table, United sit 13th, and both teams will just be glad not to have lost.Also on the show, we preview the upcoming Europa League clash against Lyon with the help of Julien Laurens. Can United keep their season alive?TotD Tour dates and ticket info: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6235043/2025/03/31/talk-of-the-devils-2025-tour-dates-uk-ireland/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nottingham Forest pulled off a league double against Manchester United for the first time since they were managed by Brian Clough, and it was United academy product Anthony Elanga who got the early goal.Nuno's subsequent tactical switch and United's inability to break it down was as predictable as it was frustrating. Alejandro Garnacho showed his annoyance after several shots went astray, but a lack of goals from the whole team is becoming a big problem.Despite that, there's confidence for the derby at Old Trafford with City still not themselves and Erling Haaland ruled out. Sadly, that will be the last derby of the season after the U18s lost to Aston Villa on penalties in the FA Youth Cup semi-final.TotD Tour dates and ticket info: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6235043/2025/03/31/talk-of-the-devils-2025-tour-dates-uk-ireland/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A provocative title? Perhaps; in one sense, of course United (13th in the PL) are underdogs away at (3rd placed) Forest. But, perhaps it's not that straight-forward...United's results were much improved in March, bringing a player of the month nomination for Bruno Fernandes and a manager of the month nod for Ruben Amorim. Meanwhile, Forest might be without Chris Wood, and maybe there's a distortion in media coverage of player form.Prompted, in part, by comments from Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Laurie has been looking at player contracts to try and get a firmer grasp on the overall budget and how it might affect transfer business in the future.TotD Tour dates and ticket info: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6235043/2025/03/31/talk-of-the-devils-2025-tour-dates-uk-ireland/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No getting away from it, it's a long one today, but we think it's worth it... Join Ian, Laurie, and Andy as we venture inside Carrington to speak to some of the key figures managing player development in Manchester United's Academy.We'll hear from Academy Director Nick Cox, Academy Coach Colin Little, and U18s Head Coach Adam Lawrence at a very exciting time...On Monday, the U18s will face Aston Villa in an FA Youth Cup semi-final at Villa Park. Not only is a place in the final on the line, but it could be a Manchester derby at Old Trafford!We want to hear about your podcast habits. Go to theathletic.com/athletic/survey25 to fill out a short survey and be in with the chance of winning £/$100 Amazon vouchersTotD Tour dates and ticket info: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6235043/2025/03/31/talk-of-the-devils-2025-tour-dates-uk-ireland/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's been an 'interesting' time for Manchester United Women in the last two years or so. Big names have left, crowd numbers wobbling, yet the team's performance is impressively robust.Uncertainty remains, though, with Marc Skinner's future unclear, an interim boss, and significant question marks about Sir Jim Ratcliffe's enthusiasm for the project.Charlotte Harpur joins Ian, Carl, and Andy, to look at their pursuit of Champions League football, derby day success, and another FA Cup win. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

No game to report on with the international break underway, so we asked you for a fresh batch of queries and concerns.Ticket price rises at Old Trafford is the issue of the week, so we dig a little deeper on that, and we think about famous father and son duos in United colours.There's also, of course, the shape of Ruben Amorim's team and how it might look after the summer window. Finally, is Bruno a club legend, what are the criteria, and do you have to have met Andy in Salford? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho were back on the scoresheet for Manchester United as Ruben Amorim's side made easy work of Leicester City.Managed by United legend and recent interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Leicester aren't the stiffest test in the Premier League right now, but there are real signs of progress after a difficult spell.Even the news of a ticket price rise was met with relatively good humour as it was less than some had feared. We discuss the ins and outs of that, the international break, and our recent live show at London's Leicester Square Theatre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.