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

Tension rises as Manchester United prepares for the defining Europa League final in Bilbao. The hosts discuss the team's rocky season, reflecting on fan emotions and ownership woes. Anticipation builds around both the men's and women's cup finals, with excitement over potential record attendances. Insights into Tottenham's challenges and tactical strategies add depth to the discussion. Amidst the pressure, there's a light-hearted focus on the cultural delights of Bilbao, promising an exhilarating match day experience for fans.

Adam Crafton, an Athletic writer specializing in Manchester United's business dynamics, joins to dissect the Glazers' contentious legacy. The discussion highlights the emotional toll on fans frustrated by ownership that prioritizes profit over connection. Crafton also explores Sir Jim Ratcliffe's complex role alongside the Glazers, emphasizing how their decisions shape the club's future. Insights on the Glazers' influence in Tampa Bay offer a unique perspective on their dual legacy. Ultimately, they forecast potential shifts in ownership amidst ongoing fan discontent.

Andy Walsh, a fan activist instrumental in opposing the Glazer takeover, shares heartfelt insights about protecting Manchester United’s culture. Economist Jim O'Neill dives deep into the financial motivations behind the 2005 acquisition and its implications for institutional investors. Former Labour Minister Richard Caborn discusses the need for better governance in football. Together, they explore the tensions between fans and ownership, revealing emotional ramifications and ongoing divides within the supporter community.

Frustration runs high as Manchester United faces their 17th loss in the Premier League. The manager emphasizes a troubling lack of urgency among players. Fans express disillusionment amidst disappointing performances and poor managerial decisions. With significant matches approaching, including the Women's FA Cup final, the urgency for change is palpable. The discussion also reflects on the team's struggles and aspirations in the Europa League, providing a stark contrast to the women's team's triumphs.

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.

Charlotte Harper, a dedicated journalist covering women's football, joins to discuss the thrilling recent achievements of Manchester United Women's team as they secured a Champions League spot amid high stakes. The conversation shifts to the youth players showcasing their potential in a challenging Premier League season. With eyes on the upcoming Europa League semi-final against Athletic Club, Harper emphasizes the crucial role fan support plays in boosting team morale and the excitement surrounding women's football in a rapidly evolving landscape.

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.