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

Joshua Zirkzee scored his first goal in European competition as Ruben Amorim's slimline squad earned a draw in San Sebastian, leaving their Europa League tie with Real Sociedad finely poised.It could easily have been a win with Manchester United growing into the game after half-time and squandering several good opportunities through profligate finishing and rash decision-making in attack.But, La Real equalised from the spot and looked much the stronger side at the finish. Might Amorim consider his options for Arsenal with the home leg hanging over that game? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sir Jim Ratcliffe's investment in Manchester United with INEOS has brought a welcome re-focusing on sporting achievement as opposed to commercial success. Project 150, encompassing Mission 21 and Mission 1, sets out a clear ambition to have the men's and women's teams winning their respective leagues by 2028, the club's 150th anniversary.Does this statement of intent, now public knowledge, help channel the attentions and efforts of the club's staff? And is there conflict with recent cost-cutting measures? Chief Executive Omar Berrada is undoubtedly one of the architects of this scheme and responsible for its execution but what about Sir Dave Brailsford, who has no clear job title at Manchester United, and Sir Jim himself?We attempt to get to the bottom of it all, and assess how likely the club are to achieve their objectives, with Ian, Andy, Laurie, and Athletic Senior Writer Oli Kay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With European qualification via the Premier League an outlandish prospect, Ruben Amorim's Manchester United had two hopes of making it back into continential competition. On Sunday, two became one.Another dispiriting, disappointing showing saw Fulham defy Bruno Fernandes second-half equaliser to progress to the quarter-finals via a penalty shoot-out.The Champions League may yet save our bacon, but Real Sociedad provide the first of up to four significant obstacles standing in the Europa League route. Hopes for the future may lie with youth, but even that's complicated! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The r-word has been put to bed after Bruno Fernandes delivered three more set-piece goals (via Morsy, De Ligt, and Maguire), but there was no shortage of drama at Old Trafford on Wednesday night with Andre Onana setting hearts racing again and Patrick Dorgu dismissed on his first home start.Fighting spirit on the pitch, then, but surely a sombre mood among Manchester United's staff after they were informed of more job cuts by Omar Berrada. We briefly break down the main points with a TotD Extra on executive strategy coming up next week.Fulham are better than Ipswich, it's fair to say, and they will pose a real threat to progress in the FA Cup. Can this competition provide the boost, and the route to Europe, that it did last season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manchester United's recent match against Everton was a rollercoaster, featuring a dismal first half that left fans frustrated. Bruno Fernandes ignited hope with a stunning free-kick, while Manuel Ugarte secured a crucial equalizer. The hosts reflect on key strategies and performances, addressing the significance of upcoming matches against Ipswich Town and Real Sociedad. They highlight the pressures on the team and the evolving expectations as they navigate challenges in the league, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Charlotte Harpur, a journalist at The Athletic, interviews Raphael Varane about his journey at Manchester United. Varane candidly discusses his adaptation to the Premier League and his relationship with coach Eric Ten Hag. The alarming financial situation of the club, with debts surpassing £1 billion, stirs significant fan frustration. The conversation also touches on the emotional significance of Goodison Park as United prepares for its last match there, revealing rich anecdotes and insights into the connections between fans and their historic stadium.

Manchester United is on a quest for the perfect striker, grappling with goal-scoring woes. The discussion highlights potential targets like Victor Jokeres and addresses the challenges of budgeting amid a competitive market. Insights from a former striker reveal the importance of team dynamics in boosting scoring potential. They also explore the implications of buyback clauses in player acquisitions and the nurturing of young talent versus high-cost signings. Overall, it's a deep dive into the club's strategic approach to reinvigorating their attack.

Two struggling teams clashed in a tense match, with Tottenham snatching a narrow win thanks to a memorable goal from a Manchester United fan. Anthony's season-ending injury adds to United's woes, forcing a reliance on youth players amid declining form from seasoned pros like Casemiro. The pressure mounts on the new manager as historical struggles resurface and fan frustrations rise. There's a glimmer of hope for the Europa League and cup competitions, but the path ahead is fraught with challenges.

In this discussion, Mark Critchley, an expert in Manchester United's data analysis and financial landscape, sheds light on the club's recent trials. He delves into the impact of job cuts in the data department amidst financial struggles. The conversation pivots to United's lag in data utilization compared to rivals and the struggles in recruitment processes. With the upcoming match against Spurs on the horizon, Critchley emphasizes the importance of data-driven strategies in preparing for tactical challenges and player conditions.

Harry Maguire's last-minute heroics secured a notable FA Cup win, despite some offside drama. The debut of Patrick Dorgu as a right wing-back raised eyebrows, leading to discussions on tactical confusion and player positioning. Fans expressed frustration over rising ticket prices amidst a mixed bag of performances. The analysis spotlighted the challenges faced by wing-backs and the broader implications of Manchester United's fluctuating success, combining emotional highs and tactical critiques.