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

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 references to other managers; a flat refusal to discuss the formation of the team. Is something afoot?We'll hear from Mr Amorim again before and after Burnley away, a game that now has more than a frisson of intrigue on it. Just four points separate 5th from 14th in the Premier League. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 that has achieved only one string of league victories?It was a hugely deflating affair on Tuesday night but Leeds United, and their supporters, will show no sympathy when the Reds roll into Elland Road. Are they ready? Is Andy? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 the game tonight? Good luck! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 a third-placed team on a hot streak is the absentee list; Kobbie Mainoo was ruled out before the game and the ever-present Bruno Fernandes felt his hamstring just before half-time. Lisandro Martinez replaced him in central midfield, cue some Carl-ribbing, but the captain is a huge loss with Newcastle coming to Old Trafford on Boxing Day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 departure wasn't as tricky as that of Noussair Mazraoui, but all three will be a big miss for a team that is consistently inconsistent, especially when it comes to holding onto a lead.Villa Park will be the venue for United's next big test; they are very good... or are they, Mark Critchley? Either way, it should be a feisty encounter... although probably not quite as feisty as that of United's women when they face Atletico Madrid in the UWCL play-off round (note: the draw took place after this conversation was recorded). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.