A surprise exit from the Champions League after defeat by Spain's Sevilla failed to dent English soccer club Manchester United's finances in the latest quarter as it stuck to its targets for the current year.

United, whose leading players include David de Gea, Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku, finished second in the 20-team English Premier League on Sunday behind local rivals Manchester City.

"As another season nears its close, we have achieved our highest number of points and finish since 2012/13 and we look forward to another trip to Wembley," its Executive Vice Chairman Ed Woodward said.

United face Chelsea in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday.

The club's adjusted earnings before interest, tax and depreciation and amortisation for the three months to March 31 rose to 36.1 million pounds ($48.71 million) from 30 million pounds a year ago.

Revenue for the period rose 8.1 percent to 137.5 million pounds.

United said it continued to target between 575-585 million pounds of revenue and adjusted core earnings of between 175-185 million pounds for the year to the end of June.

Manchester United Plc is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and controlled by the American Glazer family.

United have won the English league title a record 20 times but their performance has slipped in the recent seasons. However, finishing second in the English Premier League is enough to guarantee a place in next season's Champions League.

The Champions League, Europe's top club soccer tournament, is widely popular around the globe and garners significant revenue for the participating clubs via pooled TV payments and higher matchday receipts.

For United, matchday revenue in the third quarter rose 6.1 percent to 31.1 million pounds whereas broadcasting revenue came from 26.4 percent higher thanks to extra games in the period.

United, whose leading players include David de Gea, Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku, finished second in the 20-team English Premier League on Sunday behind local rivals Manchester City

A surprise exit from the Champions League after defeat by Spain's Sevilla failed to dent English soccer club Manchester United's finances in the latest quarter as it stuck to its targets for the current year. United, whose leading players include David de Gea, Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku, finished second in the 20-team English Premier League on Sunday behind local rivals Manchester City. "As another season nears its close, we have achieved our highest number of points and finish since 2012/13 and we look forward to another trip to Wembley," its Executive Vice Chairman Ed Woodward said. United face Chelsea in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday. The club's adjusted earnings before interest, tax and depreciation and amortisation for the three months to March 31 rose to 36.1 million pounds ($48.71 million) from 30 million pounds a year ago. Revenue for the period rose 8.1 percent to 137.5 million pounds. United said it continued to target between 575-585 million pounds of revenue and adjusted core earnings of between 175-185 million pounds for the year to the end of June. Manchester United Plc is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and controlled by the American Glazer family. United have won the English league title a record 20 times but their performance has slipped in the recent seasons. However, finishing second in the English Premier League is enough to guarantee a place in next season's Champions League. The Champions League, Europe's top club soccer tournament, is widely popular around the globe and garners significant revenue for the participating clubs via pooled TV payments and higher matchday receipts. For United, matchday revenue in the third quarter rose 6.1 percent to 31.1 million pounds whereas broadcasting revenue came from 26.4 percent higher thanks to extra games in the period.

Manchester United on course to hit financial targets

It might not save manager Antonio Conte's job but Chelsea can still salvage a disappointing season by winning Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United, says, captain Gary Cahill.

A year ago Conte's team went into the Wembley showpiece against Arsenal as Premier League champions and were one win away from completing the double in the Italian's first season.

While a 2-1 defeat by the Gunners stung it was not considered the end of the world. A similar outcome on Saturday, however, would be unpalatable for the Blues.

They finished the Premier League season in fifth place, 30 points behind champions Manchester City, and will have no Champions League football to look forward to in September.

For Cahill, it has been an especially trying campaign with poor form resulting in him losing his place at various stages of the season and falling down the England pecking order.

But victory on Saturday would represent a silver lining.

"Last season in the Cup final we didn't switch off. We just had a relaxed atmosphere," Cahill told reporters at Chelsea's FA Cup final media day. "We went into it thinking with our momentum we could just deliver like we did for the rest of the season.

"This is a different kind of feeling.

This is like we are going into it to save the season.

"We've fallen short in other competitions but we haven't fallen short in this one yet."

The rise of the Champions League has made finishing in the Premier League's top four spots imperative for England's biggest clubs, both because of the income it generates and the showcase it provides to attract top signings.

Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris said this month that finishing in the top four meant more than winning a trophy.

Cahill begs to differ.

"You can't tell me the FA Cup isn't ranked high. You are talking to the wrong fella," he said. "Maybe if you talk to some of the other boys...The FA Cup ranks as high as you like. It's right under winning the league for me.

"I've grown up around it. It's an opportunity to win the final. It's like if you are in the top four and qualify for the Champions League for seven or eight years, but don't win any trophies. Would you swap that for what we've done?

"I wouldn't, but that's me personally."

With Conte widely-expected to move on in the close-season, there has been an air of uncertainty around the club in recent months.

If Saturday's clash is to be his last game Cahill wants to make sure Conte's reign ends on a high.

"It's been a strange season," he said. "There's been speculation here, there and everywhere. There have been all sorts of different things. It's entertaining!

"We can win the Cup and finish on a high."

Cahill has endured a difficult season on the pitch and is by no means a certainty to start Saturday's final.

His patchy form has also put his place in England's World Cup squad, which is announced on Wednesday, in jeopardy.

"I'll wake up on Wednesday and if I'm in, I'm in. I'll go there and give everything I've got. If I'm not in I'll go away with my family and reflect," he said.

"It won't affect my preparations for the Cup final. My CV is there. It's just whether they want to use it.

"That's not my decision." 
&nbsp;

Chelsea can still salvage a disappointing season by winning Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United, says Gary Cahill

It might not save manager Antonio Conte's job but Chelsea can still salvage a disappointing season by winning Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United, says, captain Gary Cahill. A year ago Conte's team went into the Wembley showpiece against Arsenal as Premier League champions and were one win away from completing the double in the Italian's first season. While a 2-1 defeat by the Gunners stung it was not considered the end of the world. A similar outcome on Saturday, however, would be unpalatable for the Blues. They finished the Premier League season in fifth place, 30 points behind champions Manchester City, and will have no Champions League football to look forward to in September. For Cahill, it has been an especially trying campaign with poor form resulting in him losing his place at various stages of the season and falling down the England pecking order. But victory on Saturday would represent a silver lining. "Last season in the Cup final we didn't switch off. We just had a relaxed atmosphere," Cahill told reporters at Chelsea's FA Cup final media day. "We went into it thinking with our momentum we could just deliver like we did for the rest of the season. "This is a different kind of feeling. This is like we are going into it to save the season. "We've fallen short in other competitions but we haven't fallen short in this one yet." The rise of the Champions League has made finishing in the Premier League's top four spots imperative for England's biggest clubs, both because of the income it generates and the showcase it provides to attract top signings. Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris said this month that finishing in the top four meant more than winning a trophy. Cahill begs to differ. "You can't tell me the FA Cup isn't ranked high. You are talking to the wrong fella," he said. "Maybe if you talk to some of the other boys...The FA Cup ranks as high as you like. It's right under winning the league for me. "I've grown up around it. It's an opportunity to win the final. It's like if you are in the top four and qualify for the Champions League for seven or eight years, but don't win any trophies. Would you swap that for what we've done? "I wouldn't, but that's me personally." With Conte widely-expected to move on in the close-season, there has been an air of uncertainty around the club in recent months. If Saturday's clash is to be his last game Cahill wants to make sure Conte's reign ends on a high. "It's been a strange season," he said. "There's been speculation here, there and everywhere. There have been all sorts of different things. It's entertaining! "We can win the Cup and finish on a high." Cahill has endured a difficult season on the pitch and is by no means a certainty to start Saturday's final. His patchy form has also put his place in England's World Cup squad, which is announced on Wednesday, in jeopardy. "I'll wake up on Wednesday and if I'm in, I'm in. I'll go there and give everything I've got. If I'm not in I'll go away with my family and reflect," he said. "It won't affect my preparations for the Cup final. My CV is there. It's just whether they want to use it. "That's not my decision."

Chelsea's skipper Gary Cahill seeking FA Cup salvation

Eden Hazard fully expects to be at Chelsea next season but says he is in no hurry to sign a new contract as he wants the club to prove their ambition by bringing in players capable of winning the Premier League.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old's current deal expires in 2020 and Chelsea have been keen to tie him to the club amid persistent speculation about a move to Spain.

Chelsea finished fifth in the league, and while they have the chance to end the season on a high with Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United, Hazard said the club must look to improve the squad for a title challenge.

"I'm waiting for new players next season. I want good players because I want to win the Premier League next season," Hazard told British media.

Belgium forward said that his next contract might be the last one he signs while he is in the prime of his career.

"That's why I' m taking my time. It's something big, so I need to think about a lot of things. But one thing is for sure: I'm happy here," he added.

"... I think the FA Cup final is not my last game for Chelsea. It's the last game of the season, that's it... "

 
&nbsp;

The 27-year-old's current deal expires in 2020 and Chelsea have been keen to tie him to the club amid persistent speculation about a move to Spain

Eden Hazard fully expects to be at Chelsea next season but says he is in no hurry to sign a new contract as he wants the club to prove their ambition by bringing in players capable of winning the Premier League. The 27-year-old's current deal expires in 2020 and Chelsea have been keen to tie him to the club amid persistent speculation about a move to Spain. Chelsea finished fifth in the league, and while they have the chance to end the season on a high with Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United, Hazard said the club must look to improve the squad for a title challenge. "I'm waiting for new players next season. I want good players because I want to win the Premier League next season," Hazard told British media. Belgium forward said that his next contract might be the last one he signs while he is in the prime of his career. "That's why I' m taking my time. It's something big, so I need to think about a lot of things. But one thing is for sure: I'm happy here," he added. "... I think the FA Cup final is not my last game for Chelsea. It's the last game of the season, that's it... "

Chelsea must show ambition with new signings: Eden Hazard

Michael Carrick is making an immediate switch from Manchester United's playing squad to the coaching team in time for Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea.

The former England midfielder hung up his boots on Sunday after United's final Premier League game of the season against Watford.

The following day he began his new job as a member of manager Jose Mourinho's coaching staff, with this weekend's clash against Chelsea at Wembley his first assignment.

"It changes overnight," Carrick said. "I am not training this week. I am going to jump on the staff."

The 36-year-old had other options as he approached the end of his playing career but the chance to work under Mourinho was too good to refuse.

"A couple of years ago I thought maybe it would be a good thing to spend time with the family, but then it's about timing and opportunities," said Carrick, who made 464 appearances for United over 12 years after earlier spells with West Ham and Tottenham.

"You never know what is going to be around the corner. As soon as this came up I didn't think twice.

"He is one of the best, he's been around for many years and it all fits in. I've been at this club, and it is such a great club, so I obviously know the club and the manager."

Carrick said he is considering moving into management one day but it is not something he intends to push for yet.

The midfielder was given a guard of honour by both teams on Sunday and had a hand in the only goal of the game, playing Juan Mata in behind the defence for the Spaniard to tee up Marcus Rashford.

He was substituted late in the game to a huge ovation, with supporters recognising his role in five Premier League title successes and one Champions League triumph.

&nbsp

Michael Carrick is making an immediate switch from Manchester United's playing squad to the coaching team in time for Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea

Michael Carrick is making an immediate switch from Manchester United's playing squad to the coaching team in time for Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea. The former England midfielder hung up his boots on Sunday after United's final Premier League game of the season against Watford. The following day he began his new job as a member of manager Jose Mourinho's coaching staff, with this weekend's clash against Chelsea at Wembley his first assignment. "It changes overnight," Carrick said. "I am not training this week. I am going to jump on the staff." The 36-year-old had other options as he approached the end of his playing career but the chance to work under Mourinho was too good to refuse. "A couple of years ago I thought maybe it would be a good thing to spend time with the family, but then it's about timing and opportunities," said Carrick, who made 464 appearances for United over 12 years after earlier spells with West Ham and Tottenham. "You never know what is going to be around the corner. As soon as this came up I didn't think twice. "He is one of the best, he's been around for many years and it all fits in. I've been at this club, and it is such a great club, so I obviously know the club and the manager." Carrick said he is considering moving into management one day but it is not something he intends to push for yet. The midfielder was given a guard of honour by both teams on Sunday and had a hand in the only goal of the game, playing Juan Mata in behind the defence for the Spaniard to tee up Marcus Rashford. He was substituted late in the game to a huge ovation, with supporters recognising his role in five Premier League title successes and one Champions League triumph.

Michael Carrick makes immediate switch to coaching role at Manchester United

Alex Ferguson, the most successful manager in Manchester United's history, underwent emergency surgery on Saturday for a brain haemorrhage, the club said.

"The procedure has gone very well but he needs a period of intensive care to optimise his recovery," a statement said. "His family request privacy in this matter."

United captain Michael Carrick tweeted: "Absolutely devastated to hear about Sir Alex being unwell in hospital. All my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Be strong boss."

Ferguson's son Darren, the manager of Doncaster Rovers, was reported to have missed his team's match on Saturday for family reasons.

The 76-year-old was United manager from 1986 to 2013, winning the Champions League twice, the Premier League 13 times and five FA Cups.

He was knighted in 1999, the year United achieved a treble by winning those three trophies in one season.

He made his managerial reputation in his native Scotland with Aberdeen, winning three Scottish League titles and the European Cup Winners' Cup.

After taking Scotland to the 1986 World Cup following the death of Jock Stein, Ferguson joined United in November 1986 after Ron Atkinson was sacked.

It took three and a half years to achieve his first success with them, the FA Cup title in 1990.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Sir Alex Ferguson has undergone surgery today for a brain haemorrhage. The procedure has gone very well but he needs a period of intensive care to aid his recovery. His family request privacy in this matter. 
 
Everyone at Manchester United sends our very best wishes. <a href="https://t.co/SDoNzMwVEZ">pic.twitter.com/SDoNzMwVEZ</a>
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/992846759645925376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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From there he was unstoppable, quickly achieving his ambition to "knock Liverpool off their perch" as United became the team of the 90s and beyond.

In 2001 he decided to leave the following year but was persuaded by his family to change his mind and stayed on until 2013.

He remained a regular visitor to Old Trafford and was there last Sunday to make a presentation to old rival Arsene Wenger on the Arsenal manager's last appearance at the ground before he leaves the London club.

Since Ferguson left, United have struggled to repeat his triumphs and great rivals Manchester City have now won two titles in that time, including this season's.

City were quick to tweet: "Everyone at Manchester City wishes Sir Alex Ferguson a full and speedy recovery after his surgery".

Managers Sam Allardyce of Everton and Southampton's Mark Hughes, a former United player under the Scot, also added their best wishes following the first Premier League game after the news broke.

Scottish politicians joined in with tributes to a life-long socialist.

Nicola Sturgeon, the First Minister of Scotland, wrote: "My thoughts are with Alex Ferguson and his family - wishing him a full and speedy recovery."

Ruth Davidson, the Scottish Conservative leader, tweeted: "So many people will be wishing Alex Ferguson well and sending their thoughts to his family tonight."

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We will keep Sir Alex and his loved ones in our thoughts during this time, and we are united in our wish to see him make a comfortable, speedy recovery.
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/992869132658987009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Alex Ferguson, the most successful manager in Manchester United's history, underwent emergency surgery on Saturday for a brain haemorrhage

Alex Ferguson, the most successful manager in Manchester United's history, underwent emergency surgery on Saturday for a brain haemorrhage, the club said. "The procedure has gone very well but he needs a period of intensive care to optimise his recovery," a statement said. "His family request privacy in this matter." United captain Michael Carrick tweeted: "Absolutely devastated to hear about Sir Alex being unwell in hospital. All my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Be strong boss." Ferguson's son Darren, the manager of Doncaster Rovers, was reported to have missed his team's match on Saturday for family reasons. The 76-year-old was United manager from 1986 to 2013, winning the Champions League twice, the Premier League 13 times and five FA Cups. He was knighted in 1999, the year United achieved a treble by winning those three trophies in one season. He made his managerial reputation in his native Scotland with Aberdeen, winning three Scottish League titles and the European Cup Winners' Cup. After taking Scotland to the 1986 World Cup following the death of Jock Stein, Ferguson joined United in November 1986 after Ron Atkinson was sacked. It took three and a half years to achieve his first success with them, the FA Cup title in 1990. Sir Alex Ferguson has undergone surgery today for a brain haemorrhage. The procedure has gone very well but he needs a period of intensive care to aid his recovery. His family request privacy in this matter. Everyone at Manchester United sends our very best wishes. pic.twitter.com/SDoNzMwVEZ — Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 5, 2018 × From there he was unstoppable, quickly achieving his ambition to "knock Liverpool off their perch" as United became the team of the 90s and beyond. In 2001 he decided to leave the following year but was persuaded by his family to change his mind and stayed on until 2013. He remained a regular visitor to Old Trafford and was there last Sunday to make a presentation to old rival Arsene Wenger on the Arsenal manager's last appearance at the ground before he leaves the London club. Since Ferguson left, United have struggled to repeat his triumphs and great rivals Manchester City have now won two titles in that time, including this season's. City were quick to tweet: "Everyone at Manchester City wishes Sir Alex Ferguson a full and speedy recovery after his surgery". Managers Sam Allardyce of Everton and Southampton's Mark Hughes, a former United player under the Scot, also added their best wishes following the first Premier League game after the news broke. Scottish politicians joined in with tributes to a life-long socialist. Nicola Sturgeon, the First Minister of Scotland, wrote: "My thoughts are with Alex Ferguson and his family - wishing him a full and speedy recovery." Ruth Davidson, the Scottish Conservative leader, tweeted: "So many people will be wishing Alex Ferguson well and sending their thoughts to his family tonight." We will keep Sir Alex and his loved ones in our thoughts during this time, and we are united in our wish to see him make a comfortable, speedy recovery. — Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 5, 2018 ×

Sir Alex Ferguson recovering in hospital following brain surgery

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said he and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho had settled their differences ahead of next month's FA Cup final between the two clubs.

Conte, who won the title with Chelsea last season, and Mourinho, the London club's most successful ever manager, have clashed on several occasions.

In January, Conte called Mourinho "a little man" after Mourinho made a pointed comment about match-fixing, a reference to Conte's four-month suspension for failing to report match-fixing while a manager in Italy. Conte was later cleared by an Italian court of any wrongdoing.

The Italian was quick to try to bury the hatchet on Sunday after Chelsea secured their place in the final on May 19 by beating Southampton 2-0 in the semi-final at Wembley.

"I think with Jose we have clarified the situation and that is the most important thing. There is not a problem between him and I," Conte said. "I think that this final is a game between two great teams."

Conte said Manchester United, who sit second in the English Premier League, would go into the final as favourites against fifth-placed Chelsea.

"I think this season we arrive not as favourite but as you know last season we lost the final despite being favourite against Arsenal," Conte said.

Southampton manager Mark Hughes said he was disappointed that referee Martin Atkinson had not chosen to use the Video Assistant Referee system when he awarded a foul after Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero failed to catch a high ball which appeared to cross the line with Chelsea 1-0 up.

"Clearly it was a match-defining moment," Hughes said. "Why it hasn’t been referred, I have no idea."

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said he and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho had settled their differences ahead of next month's FA Cup final

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said he and Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho had settled their differences ahead of next month's FA Cup final between the two clubs. Conte, who won the title with Chelsea last season, and Mourinho, the London club's most successful ever manager, have clashed on several occasions. In January, Conte called Mourinho "a little man" after Mourinho made a pointed comment about match-fixing, a reference to Conte's four-month suspension for failing to report match-fixing while a manager in Italy. Conte was later cleared by an Italian court of any wrongdoing. The Italian was quick to try to bury the hatchet on Sunday after Chelsea secured their place in the final on May 19 by beating Southampton 2-0 in the semi-final at Wembley. "I think with Jose we have clarified the situation and that is the most important thing. There is not a problem between him and I," Conte said. "I think that this final is a game between two great teams." Conte said Manchester United, who sit second in the English Premier League, would go into the final as favourites against fifth-placed Chelsea. "I think this season we arrive not as favourite but as you know last season we lost the final despite being favourite against Arsenal," Conte said. Southampton manager Mark Hughes said he was disappointed that referee Martin Atkinson had not chosen to use the Video Assistant Referee system when he awarded a foul after Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero failed to catch a high ball which appeared to cross the line with Chelsea 1-0 up. "Clearly it was a match-defining moment," Hughes said. "Why it hasn’t been referred, I have no idea."

Mourinho spat is over ahead of FA Cup final, says Antonio Conte

Manchester United inflicted yet more FA Cup semi-final misery on Tottenham Hotspur as Alexis Sanchez helped inspire a comeback 2-1 victory at a packed Wembley Stadium on Saturday.

Tottenham, playing on the ground which has been their temporary home all season, got off to a dream start when Dele Alli scored from close range but Sanchez maintained his superb record at Wembley with a headed equaliser.

A tight game was settled just past the hour mark when Ander Herrera fired United in front.

While United, who will play in their 20th FA Cup final, can look forward to the prospect of finishing the season with some silverware, Tottenham must pick themselves up after an eighth successive semi-final loss in the competition.

Standing between United and a record-equalling 13th FA Cup triumph will be Chelsea or Southampton, who play on Sunday.

"We deserve it. If we split the match into periods we were the best team for many of these periods," United manager Jose Mourinho, bidding for a third trophy for United since taking over from Louis van Gaal in 2016, said.

"We lost control after the 1-0. At halftime we spoke -- we came back late for the second half because we spoke a lot -- and organised ourselves."

Sanchez, who has struggled to hit the heights since joining United from Tottenham`s arch-rivals Arsenal in January, finds Wembley an inspiring backdrop and took his goal tally there for club and country to eight with a tireless display.

Yet it was Tottenham, looking for a first trophy for 10 years and something tangible to show for all the exciting progress made under manager Mauricio Pochettino, who dominated early on.

The white end of Wembley erupted after 10 minutes when a sweeping move ended with Alli putting Spurs in front.

Central defender Davinson Sanchez, who kept the experienced Toby Alderweireld on the bench, curled a pass down the line to Christian Eriksen and the Danish playmaker`s precise cross was stabbed home by Alli at the back post.

United were rocking as Eriksen fired wide from another slick Spurs move while Harry Kane just failed to connect with Son Heung-min`s teasing cross.

Crucial Intervention

Alli was also denied a second as Phil Jones made a crucial intervention while at the other end Romelu Lukaku headed over after a rare United foray forward.

United, however, weathered the storm and were level after 24 minutes. Mousa Dembele was out-muscled by Paul Pogba out wide and the Frenchman`s cross was headed expertly past Michel Vorm by Sanchez -- one of the smallest players on the pitch.

Tottenham were the width of the post away from re-taking the lead on the stroke of halftime when Eric Dier`s daisy-cutter flicked off Chris Smalling`s shin and on to the upright.

Tottenham`s superior possession lacked conviction in the opening stages of the second half and there was a sense that Mourinho`s United were in game-management mode.

They struck in the 62nd minute with Sanchez this time cutting a pass across the area which fell to Herrera who steadied himself before firing a shot through the legs of Ben Davies and past a slow-to-react Vorm.

With United`s fans in full voice and a sea of red at Wembley`s west end, Spurs barely threatened David de Gea`s goal in the closing stages as their 10-year trophy drought continued.

United could even have added to their lead with Pogba forcing a smart save from Vorm.

Pochettino has now suffered a League Cup final defeat and successive FA Cup semi-final losses with Tottenham.

"We are disappointed because we are so close," he said.

"We need to think, move on, finish the season and try to finish in the top four."

Manchester United inflicted yet more FA Cup semi-final misery on Tottenham Hotspur as Alexis Sanchez helped inspire a comeback 2-1 victory

Manchester United inflicted yet more FA Cup semi-final misery on Tottenham Hotspur as Alexis Sanchez helped inspire a comeback 2-1 victory at a packed Wembley Stadium on Saturday. Tottenham, playing on the ground which has been their temporary home all season, got off to a dream start when Dele Alli scored from close range but Sanchez maintained his superb record at Wembley with a headed equaliser. A tight game was settled just past the hour mark when Ander Herrera fired United in front. While United, who will play in their 20th FA Cup final, can look forward to the prospect of finishing the season with some silverware, Tottenham must pick themselves up after an eighth successive semi-final loss in the competition. Standing between United and a record-equalling 13th FA Cup triumph will be Chelsea or Southampton, who play on Sunday. "We deserve it. If we split the match into periods we were the best team for many of these periods," United manager Jose Mourinho, bidding for a third trophy for United since taking over from Louis van Gaal in 2016, said. "We lost control after the 1-0. At halftime we spoke -- we came back late for the second half because we spoke a lot -- and organised ourselves." Sanchez, who has struggled to hit the heights since joining United from Tottenham`s arch-rivals Arsenal in January, finds Wembley an inspiring backdrop and took his goal tally there for club and country to eight with a tireless display. Yet it was Tottenham, looking for a first trophy for 10 years and something tangible to show for all the exciting progress made under manager Mauricio Pochettino, who dominated early on. The white end of Wembley erupted after 10 minutes when a sweeping move ended with Alli putting Spurs in front. Central defender Davinson Sanchez, who kept the experienced Toby Alderweireld on the bench, curled a pass down the line to Christian Eriksen and the Danish playmaker`s precise cross was stabbed home by Alli at the back post. United were rocking as Eriksen fired wide from another slick Spurs move while Harry Kane just failed to connect with Son Heung-min`s teasing cross. Crucial Intervention Alli was also denied a second as Phil Jones made a crucial intervention while at the other end Romelu Lukaku headed over after a rare United foray forward. United, however, weathered the storm and were level after 24 minutes. Mousa Dembele was out-muscled by Paul Pogba out wide and the Frenchman`s cross was headed expertly past Michel Vorm by Sanchez -- one of the smallest players on the pitch. Tottenham were the width of the post away from re-taking the lead on the stroke of halftime when Eric Dier`s daisy-cutter flicked off Chris Smalling`s shin and on to the upright. Tottenham`s superior possession lacked conviction in the opening stages of the second half and there was a sense that Mourinho`s United were in game-management mode. They struck in the 62nd minute with Sanchez this time cutting a pass across the area which fell to Herrera who steadied himself before firing a shot through the legs of Ben Davies and past a slow-to-react Vorm. With United`s fans in full voice and a sea of red at Wembley`s west end, Spurs barely threatened David de Gea`s goal in the closing stages as their 10-year trophy drought continued. United could even have added to their lead with Pogba forcing a smart save from Vorm. Pochettino has now suffered a League Cup final defeat and successive FA Cup semi-final losses with Tottenham. "We are disappointed because we are so close," he said. "We need to think, move on, finish the season and try to finish in the top four."

Manchester United outplay Spurs to enter finals of FA Cup

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is ready to drop established players for the FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday after the Old Trafford club's weekend defeat by Premier League bottom side West Bromwich Albion.

United suffered a shock 1-0 home loss to West Brom on Sunday, handing the title to Manchester City, and Mourinho said his team were the "masters of complication". They next visit Bournemouth on Wednesday before facing Spurs at Wembley.

Asked if he would rotate his players for the midweek league game on the south coast, Mourinho indicated that some of those who played against West Brom would feature again at Bournemouth because they had lost their place&nbspfor the semi-final.

"Rotating is not the right word," he was quoted as saying by The Independent. "If I play a player against Bournemouth and the player is phenomenal, he plays the semi-final.

"So is not rotating, because rotating looks like a player plays against Bournemouth to give a rest to somebody that is going to play against Spurs in the semi-final.

"So the word is not rotation, it is an opportunity for people, for some people, to play and to try to get a place in the team for Spurs. Some of the guys that played (on Sunday) don't have a place in that team."

Asked to clarify if he meant those who performed badly against West Brom would not play against Tottenham, Mourinho said: "Yeah. What is the criteria for a manager to choose a team? I only know one criteria: (it) is the way you play.

"Or do you want me to go for the price they cost, or their salary, or their beautiful face? The only way is to go with performance."

Ander Herrera was substituted at halftime against West Brom, while fellow midfielder Paul Pogba came off in the 58th minute, but Mourinho said that a yellow card had also been a factor in the Frenchman's replacement.

"It was not just him and he had a yellow card, so he was in a more difficult position than others," Mourinho said.

"And playing with only two midfield players, you cannot play with one player in risk of not being able to make a foul.

"You can do it if your team is not losing the ball, but our team was losing the ball so easy with the complication, everything was complicated, so we were losing lots of balls.

"Paul was out because of the yellow card, because in terms of the way he played, he was not worse than some others that were on the pitch for 90 minutes."

 
&nbsp

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is ready to drop established players for the FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday after the Old Trafford club's weekend defeat by Premier League bottom side West Bromwich Albion

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is ready to drop established players for the FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday after the Old Trafford club's weekend defeat by Premier League bottom side West Bromwich Albion. United suffered a shock 1-0 home loss to West Brom on Sunday, handing the title to Manchester City, and Mourinho said his team were the "masters of complication". They next visit Bournemouth on Wednesday before facing Spurs at Wembley. Asked if he would rotate his players for the midweek league game on the south coast, Mourinho indicated that some of those who played against West Brom would feature again at Bournemouth because they had lost their place&nbspfor the semi-final. "Rotating is not the right word," he was quoted as saying by The Independent. "If I play a player against Bournemouth and the player is phenomenal, he plays the semi-final. "So is not rotating, because rotating looks like a player plays against Bournemouth to give a rest to somebody that is going to play against Spurs in the semi-final. "So the word is not rotation, it is an opportunity for people, for some people, to play and to try to get a place in the team for Spurs. Some of the guys that played (on Sunday) don't have a place in that team." Asked to clarify if he meant those who performed badly against West Brom would not play against Tottenham, Mourinho said: "Yeah. What is the criteria for a manager to choose a team? I only know one criteria: (it) is the way you play. "Or do you want me to go for the price they cost, or their salary, or their beautiful face? The only way is to go with performance." Ander Herrera was substituted at halftime against West Brom, while fellow midfielder Paul Pogba came off in the 58th minute, but Mourinho said that a yellow card had also been a factor in the Frenchman's replacement. "It was not just him and he had a yellow card, so he was in a more difficult position than others," Mourinho said. "And playing with only two midfield players, you cannot play with one player in risk of not being able to make a foul. "You can do it if your team is not losing the ball, but our team was losing the ball so easy with the complication, everything was complicated, so we were losing lots of balls. "Paul was out because of the yellow card, because in terms of the way he played, he was not worse than some others that were on the pitch for 90 minutes."

Mourinho set to drop players for United's FA Cup semi-final

A week after an inspiring comeback win against Manchester City, Manchester United fell to a 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford against bottom club West Bromwich Albion on Sunday and manager Jose Mourinho said such inconsistency needed to change if they were to challenge their neighbours next season.

The loss handed City the title, leaving United trailing by 16 points with five games remaining, and Mourinho immediately faced the question of whether he was confident his team could make a real challenge next year.

"I trust in my work, that is for sure, I have no reason not to trust. Eight titles are eight titles and three Premier Leagues are three Premier Leagues," he said.

"The last title was not 20 years ago it was three years ago. I know how to win, I believe in myself but I don't play," added the former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager.

"In my experience you don't win titles with inconsistency, you win titles, of course with quality, without quality you have no chance, but you have to win titles with consistency at every level not just the performance level.

"The mental level, the day by day, everything must be consistent until the last day so one of the things we have to improve is consistency," he said.

Mourinho suggested his players might have over-reacted to the win against City at the Etihad.

"Probably because I won eight championships I was not on the moon with the victory against them because that doesn't make me feel super-happy. In my opinion it affected for sure some of the people that were too happy just with that," he said.

A 73rd-minute header from Jay Rodriguez after United had failed to defend a corner won the game for relegation-threatened West Brom and Mourinho said his team had not played the simple football he expects.

"We were masters in complication. Everything was complicated. We couldn't think fast, we couldn't play fast. Players didn't want to or didn't play simple. Everything was slow. Everyone was one more touch, one more trick, one more flick, one more turn.

"We always gave them the opportunity to be solid, compact, together with huge physical strong players, they always had time to organise themselves. When we had the ball, we wanted to run, dribble and everything was complicated," he said.

The Portuguese manager said that City deserved their title and he had offered them his congratulations after the derby win.

"I don't know if I was the first or second or third but I congratulated them face to face when I had chance to do it. I knew that sooner or later that would be and if I was in that position I would be very upset if someone said they won the title because Manchester United lost," he said.

"They won the title because they were the best team. They lost only two matches, that is why they were champions."

The loss handed City the title, leaving United trailing by 16 points

A week after an inspiring comeback win against Manchester City, Manchester United fell to a 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford against bottom club West Bromwich Albion on Sunday and manager Jose Mourinho said such inconsistency needed to change if they were to challenge their neighbours next season. The loss handed City the title, leaving United trailing by 16 points with five games remaining, and Mourinho immediately faced the question of whether he was confident his team could make a real challenge next year. "I trust in my work, that is for sure, I have no reason not to trust. Eight titles are eight titles and three Premier Leagues are three Premier Leagues," he said. "The last title was not 20 years ago it was three years ago. I know how to win, I believe in myself but I don't play," added the former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager. "In my experience you don't win titles with inconsistency, you win titles, of course with quality, without quality you have no chance, but you have to win titles with consistency at every level not just the performance level. "The mental level, the day by day, everything must be consistent until the last day so one of the things we have to improve is consistency," he said. Mourinho suggested his players might have over-reacted to the win against City at the Etihad. "Probably because I won eight championships I was not on the moon with the victory against them because that doesn't make me feel super-happy. In my opinion it affected for sure some of the people that were too happy just with that," he said. A 73rd-minute header from Jay Rodriguez after United had failed to defend a corner won the game for relegation-threatened West Brom and Mourinho said his team had not played the simple football he expects. "We were masters in complication. Everything was complicated. We couldn't think fast, we couldn't play fast. Players didn't want to or didn't play simple. Everything was slow. Everyone was one more touch, one more trick, one more flick, one more turn. "We always gave them the opportunity to be solid, compact, together with huge physical strong players, they always had time to organise themselves. When we had the ball, we wanted to run, dribble and everything was complicated," he said. The Portuguese manager said that City deserved their title and he had offered them his congratulations after the derby win. "I don't know if I was the first or second or third but I congratulated them face to face when I had chance to do it. I knew that sooner or later that would be and if I was in that position I would be very upset if someone said they won the title because Manchester United lost," he said. "They won the title because they were the best team. They lost only two matches, that is why they were champions."

EPL: Mourinho hits out at inconsistent and 'complicated' Manchester United

Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;were confirmed as Premier League champions on Sunday as second-placed&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United suffered a shock 1-0 home defeat by bottom club West Bromwich Albion.

United had to at least draw to keep the title race mathematically alive but were stunned at Old Trafford when Jay Rodriguez headed home after the break.

City&nbsp;manager Pep Guardiola might have missed the moment that his first English title was sealed, however, after admitting on Saturday he had a round of golf booked with his son.

He would have been as surprised as everyone else that the title, seemingly a foregone conclusion for months, was rubber-stamped in such strange circumstances.

A week after&nbsp;City&nbsp;surrendered a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 to United and squander the chance to wrap up the title in perfect style against their arch-rivals, it was relegation-bound West Brom who served it up on a plate.

West Brom had lost eight of their previous nine games and last won on Jan. 13.

City, who rebounded from the United loss and a European exit at the hands of Liverpool by beating Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, have 87 points with five games left.

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Our Time. Our City. 
 
Premier League Champions 17/18 ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mancity?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mancity</a> <a href="https://t.co/lztlN3lWFW">pic.twitter.com/lztlN3lWFW</a>
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United have 71 also with five to play.

It is Abu Dhabi-owned&nbsp;City's third title in seven seasons and their first since former boss Manuel Pellegrini achieved the feat in 2013-14.

Guardiola has won the League Cup already for&nbsp;City&nbsp;this season but a first Premier League title, to go with the three La Liga titles he won as manager of Barcelona and the three Bundesliga titles he delivered for Bayern Munich, will be particularly satisfying for the Spaniard.

"You cannot imagine," Guardiola said on Saturday. "It would be one of the best three seasons I have ever had as a player and as a manager. The amount of goals, chances and points, to do that in the Premier League, with the contenders we have, is because the players are so good."

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&nbsp;

Manchester City were confirmed as Premier League champions

Manchester City were confirmed as Premier League champions on Sunday as second-placed Manchester United suffered a shock 1-0 home defeat by bottom club West Bromwich Albion. United had to at least draw to keep the title race mathematically alive but were stunned at Old Trafford when Jay Rodriguez headed home after the break. City manager Pep Guardiola might have missed the moment that his first English title was sealed, however, after admitting on Saturday he had a round of golf booked with his son. He would have been as surprised as everyone else that the title, seemingly a foregone conclusion for months, was rubber-stamped in such strange circumstances. A week after City surrendered a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 to United and squander the chance to wrap up the title in perfect style against their arch-rivals, it was relegation-bound West Brom who served it up on a plate. West Brom had lost eight of their previous nine games and last won on Jan. 13. City, who rebounded from the United loss and a European exit at the hands of Liverpool by beating Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, have 87 points with five games left. Our Time. Our City. Premier League Champions 17/18 ?#mancity pic.twitter.com/lztlN3lWFW — Manchester City (@ManCity) April 15, 2018 × United have 71 also with five to play. It is Abu Dhabi-owned City's third title in seven seasons and their first since former boss Manuel Pellegrini achieved the feat in 2013-14. Guardiola has won the League Cup already for City this season but a first Premier League title, to go with the three La Liga titles he won as manager of Barcelona and the three Bundesliga titles he delivered for Bayern Munich, will be particularly satisfying for the Spaniard. "You cannot imagine," Guardiola said on Saturday. "It would be one of the best three seasons I have ever had as a player and as a manager. The amount of goals, chances and points, to do that in the Premier League, with the contenders we have, is because the players are so good." https://t.co/NkjdwM1YR8 — Manchester City (@ManCity) April 15, 2018 ×

Manchester City win Premier League after United lose to bottom-placed West Brom

Manchester City's Premier League title celebrations were put on hold as rivals Manchester United produced a remarkable comeback from two goals down to win an enthralling derby clash 3-2 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

A win for City would have clinched the title but instead their first home defeat in the league this season leaves Pep Guardiola's side with a 13 point lead with six games remaining.

With United having closed the gap, City need to win two of their final games to be sure of the title. While that outcome still looks a formality, this was a bitter blow coming after Wednesday's 3-0 loss to Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie.

"In football anything can happen, it's the first time we've lost two games in a row this season and now we have to recover and try again, go back to the basics and win games. We're going to try on Tuesday and in the next games," said Guardiola.

With an eye on Tuesday's second leg, the Spaniard left several regular starters on the bench. They were nonetheless 2-0 up within half an hour thanks to goals from Vincent Kompany and Ilkay Guendogan and they wasted several other chances to extend their lead.

But two goals from Paul Pogba in the 53rd and 55th minutes brought United level before Chris Smalling grabbed the winner in the 69th minute.

In a dramatic game, City had a strong penalty appeal turned down and twice went close to an equaliser in the final stages. In the end, however, the planned title party at the Etihad was replaced by the sight of United players celebrating in front of their supporters.

"If they had won they are champions, for all the fans it would be like death. To lose against City and to see them celebrate, I couldn't let that happen," said Pogba.

Kevin De Bruyne started on the bench along with Kyle Walker, strikers Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus and French defender Aymeric Laporte.

There was no question of City taking the game lightly though as they attacked with intent and incisiveness.

When the opener came in the 25th minute, however, it was from a simple corner played in by Leroy Sane which skipper Kompany, despite having his shirt pulled by Smalling, met with a thundering header.

The second, on the half hour, came from a poor clearance from David de Gea, straight to Sane and from the ensuing break, Raheem Sterling slipped the ball inside to Guendogan who created space with a clever turn and drove into the bottom corner.

Sterling then missed two clear chances, twice blasting over when he was put clear on goal and Guendogan could have done better when, alone in the area, he headed straight at De Gea.

COMEBACK SHOCK

It wasn't even halftime and the City fans were roaring 'ole' to each pass as Guardiola's side toyed with a totally ineffective United, passing the ball around them in midfield. But if they thought the game – and the title – were in the bag, they were in for a shock.

Seven minutes after the restart, United pulled a goal back when Alexis Sanchez wriggled some room for a cross which Ander Herrera intelligently chested into the path of Pogba who slotted past Ederson to make it 2-1.

Two minutes later and United were level. Again it was Pogba, who had been poor in the first half, who did the damage, rising to meet a deep Sanchez cross and angling his header into the bottom corner.

Suddenly the air of celebration had vanished from the stadium but it was to get worse in the 69th minute, with Sanchez again the provider. The Chilean floated a free kick into the area and Smalling, inexplicably unmarked, simply side-footed past Ederson.

City felt they should have had a penalty when Aguero went down under a challenge from Ashley Young. They then went close to an equaliser when De Gea made a brilliant save to keep out a header from the Argentine striker and Sterling hit the post.

A win for City would have clinched the title but instead their first home defeat in the league this season leaves Pep Guardiola's side with a 13 point lead with six games remaining.

Manchester City's Premier League title celebrations were put on hold as rivals Manchester United produced a remarkable comeback from two goals down to win an enthralling derby clash 3-2 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. A win for City would have clinched the title but instead their first home defeat in the league this season leaves Pep Guardiola's side with a 13 point lead with six games remaining. With United having closed the gap, City need to win two of their final games to be sure of the title. While that outcome still looks a formality, this was a bitter blow coming after Wednesday's 3-0 loss to Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie. "In football anything can happen, it's the first time we've lost two games in a row this season and now we have to recover and try again, go back to the basics and win games. We're going to try on Tuesday and in the next games," said Guardiola. With an eye on Tuesday's second leg, the Spaniard left several regular starters on the bench. They were nonetheless 2-0 up within half an hour thanks to goals from Vincent Kompany and Ilkay Guendogan and they wasted several other chances to extend their lead. But two goals from Paul Pogba in the 53rd and 55th minutes brought United level before Chris Smalling grabbed the winner in the 69th minute. In a dramatic game, City had a strong penalty appeal turned down and twice went close to an equaliser in the final stages. In the end, however, the planned title party at the Etihad was replaced by the sight of United players celebrating in front of their supporters. "If they had won they are champions, for all the fans it would be like death. To lose against City and to see them celebrate, I couldn't let that happen," said Pogba. Kevin De Bruyne started on the bench along with Kyle Walker, strikers Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus and French defender Aymeric Laporte. There was no question of City taking the game lightly though as they attacked with intent and incisiveness. When the opener came in the 25th minute, however, it was from a simple corner played in by Leroy Sane which skipper Kompany, despite having his shirt pulled by Smalling, met with a thundering header. The second, on the half hour, came from a poor clearance from David de Gea, straight to Sane and from the ensuing break, Raheem Sterling slipped the ball inside to Guendogan who created space with a clever turn and drove into the bottom corner. Sterling then missed two clear chances, twice blasting over when he was put clear on goal and Guendogan could have done better when, alone in the area, he headed straight at De Gea. COMEBACK SHOCK It wasn't even halftime and the City fans were roaring 'ole' to each pass as Guardiola's side toyed with a totally ineffective United, passing the ball around them in midfield. But if they thought the game – and the title – were in the bag, they were in for a shock. Seven minutes after the restart, United pulled a goal back when Alexis Sanchez wriggled some room for a cross which Ander Herrera intelligently chested into the path of Pogba who slotted past Ederson to make it 2-1. Two minutes later and United were level. Again it was Pogba, who had been poor in the first half, who did the damage, rising to meet a deep Sanchez cross and angling his header into the bottom corner. Suddenly the air of celebration had vanished from the stadium but it was to get worse in the 69th minute, with Sanchez again the provider. The Chilean floated a free kick into the area and Smalling, inexplicably unmarked, simply side-footed past Ederson. City felt they should have had a penalty when Aguero went down under a challenge from Ashley Young. They then went close to an equaliser when De Gea made a brilliant save to keep out a header from the Argentine striker and Sterling hit the post.

Football: No celebration for City after United comeback win

Manchester City can become English champions for the fifth time if they beat Manchester United on Saturday -- and Pep Guardiola's claim he was offered Paul Pogba has added to the occasion.

A City side that has lost just once in the league all season will seal their third Premier League title in seven seasons unless Jose Mourinho's side can throw a spanner in the works in what promises to be a memorable Manchester derby.

Liverpool's 3-0 defeat of City in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday took some gloss off their impending coronation, but Guardiola has come out fighting by taunting United with the claim he was given the chance to sign the club's record signing Paul Pogba in January.

"I said no. We don't have the money to buy Pogba because he is so expensive," Guardiola told reporters on Friday as he attacked the conduct of Pogba's agent Mino Raiola.

Guardiola, who stressed he thought Pogba was an "incredible player", also suggested Raiola offered him then-United midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan shortly before Arsenal signed him instead in part-exchange for the deal that took Alexis Sanchez to Old Trafford.

Pogba, who joined United for £89 million ($125 million, 102 million euros) from Juventus in 2016, has endured a wretched season and is by no means guaranteed to be in the starting line-up on Saturday.

The French midfielder responded to Guardiola's revelations with a picture on Twitter cupping his hand to his ear, captioned "Say what?"

United manager Jose Mourinho indicated last month that it was up to Pogba to explain why his form has been so inconsistent in recent months.

There is no suggestion that United had given their approval for Pogba to be offered to City and Guardiola's ire appeared to be aimed solely at Raiola -- the two men have feuded since the Catalan coach was managing Barcelona.

Raiola believes Guardiola forced another of his clients, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, out of Barcelona in 2011.

Their row was reignited two weeks ago when Raiola called Guardiola a "zero", a "coward" and a "dog" for the way he treats his players.

"Comparing someone to a dog is bad. It's not good. He has to respect the dogs," Guardiola said with heavy sarcasm on Friday.

Mourinho has not commented on the Pogba claims, but he said although it would not be "the end of the world" if United lost, "we don't want to offer them the game".

"We want to go there and want to compete and win the match if possible."&nbsp

Emirati riches

Despite Guardiola's suggestion that City could not stretch to Pogba's price tag, the investment by their owners from Abu Dhabi, who took over in 2008, has been phenomenal.

The CIES Football Observatory estimates that the current City squad, including Sergio Aguero and contender for player of the year Kevin De Bruyne, cost 878 million euros ($1.07 billion) to assemble.

That financial firepower has put City 16 points ahead of second-placed United.

Guardiola, also a former manager of German giants Bayern Munich, has himself splashed out nearly 600 million euros in his time in northwest England, but he defended the level of spending.

"I am so, so happy with what we have done this year," he said. "It's impossible to do that, to play the way we play, the results we achieved, without top players. It's impossible. And today the top players cost a lot of money.

"When the people say, 'You win because you spend 600 million euros', I don't know how much money we spent in two years. But it is impossible to do it without money.

"When people you say, 'You can do that, Pep, what you have done in Barcelona or Bayern Munich without those players, is it possible to do that?' No, it's impossible, so be calm."

Manchester City can become English champions for the fifth time if they beat Manchester United

Manchester City can become English champions for the fifth time if they beat Manchester United on Saturday -- and Pep Guardiola's claim he was offered Paul Pogba has added to the occasion. A City side that has lost just once in the league all season will seal their third Premier League title in seven seasons unless Jose Mourinho's side can throw a spanner in the works in what promises to be a memorable Manchester derby. Liverpool's 3-0 defeat of City in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday took some gloss off their impending coronation, but Guardiola has come out fighting by taunting United with the claim he was given the chance to sign the club's record signing Paul Pogba in January. "I said no. We don't have the money to buy Pogba because he is so expensive," Guardiola told reporters on Friday as he attacked the conduct of Pogba's agent Mino Raiola. Guardiola, who stressed he thought Pogba was an "incredible player", also suggested Raiola offered him then-United midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan shortly before Arsenal signed him instead in part-exchange for the deal that took Alexis Sanchez to Old Trafford. Pogba, who joined United for £89 million ($125 million, 102 million euros) from Juventus in 2016, has endured a wretched season and is by no means guaranteed to be in the starting line-up on Saturday. The French midfielder responded to Guardiola's revelations with a picture on Twitter cupping his hand to his ear, captioned "Say what?" United manager Jose Mourinho indicated last month that it was up to Pogba to explain why his form has been so inconsistent in recent months. There is no suggestion that United had given their approval for Pogba to be offered to City and Guardiola's ire appeared to be aimed solely at Raiola -- the two men have feuded since the Catalan coach was managing Barcelona. Raiola believes Guardiola forced another of his clients, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, out of Barcelona in 2011. Their row was reignited two weeks ago when Raiola called Guardiola a "zero", a "coward" and a "dog" for the way he treats his players. "Comparing someone to a dog is bad. It's not good. He has to respect the dogs," Guardiola said with heavy sarcasm on Friday. Mourinho has not commented on the Pogba claims, but he said although it would not be "the end of the world" if United lost, "we don't want to offer them the game". "We want to go there and want to compete and win the match if possible." Emirati riches Despite Guardiola's suggestion that City could not stretch to Pogba's price tag, the investment by their owners from Abu Dhabi, who took over in 2008, has been phenomenal. The CIES Football Observatory estimates that the current City squad, including Sergio Aguero and contender for player of the year Kevin De Bruyne, cost 878 million euros ($1.07 billion) to assemble. That financial firepower has put City 16 points ahead of second-placed United. Guardiola, also a former manager of German giants Bayern Munich, has himself splashed out nearly 600 million euros in his time in northwest England, but he defended the level of spending. "I am so, so happy with what we have done this year," he said. "It's impossible to do that, to play the way we play, the results we achieved, without top players. It's impossible. And today the top players cost a lot of money. "When the people say, 'You win because you spend 600 million euros', I don't know how much money we spent in two years. But it is impossible to do it without money. "When people you say, 'You can do that, Pep, what you have done in Barcelona or Bayern Munich without those players, is it possible to do that?' No, it's impossible, so be calm."

Manchester City to clash Man United for title win

Manchester City moved to within one win of the Premier League title after an impressive 3-1 win at Everton on Saturday.

Pep Guardiola's side, who will be champions if they win next Saturday's Manchester derby, grabbed the lead in the fourth minute through Leroy Sane's sizzling volley from a tight angle at the back post after a pinpoint cross from David Silva.

Eight minutes later it was 2-0 to City after Kevin De Bruyne did well with a high bouncing ball to find Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus who confidently headed home.

City were utterly dominant and Silva was again the provider for the third goal, in the 37th minute, when he slipped the ball across the area and Raheem Sterling drove past Jordan Pickford.

Everton gained encouragement in the 63rd minute when Yannick Bolasie's low drive from the edge of the area flew in off the inside of the post but City, preserving energy ahead of Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg at Liverpool, comfortably saw out the game.

Pep Guardiola's side will be champions if they win next Saturday's Manchester derby

Manchester City moved to within one win of the Premier League title after an impressive 3-1 win at Everton on Saturday. Pep Guardiola's side, who will be champions if they win next Saturday's Manchester derby, grabbed the lead in the fourth minute through Leroy Sane's sizzling volley from a tight angle at the back post after a pinpoint cross from David Silva. Eight minutes later it was 2-0 to City after Kevin De Bruyne did well with a high bouncing ball to find Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus who confidently headed home. City were utterly dominant and Silva was again the provider for the third goal, in the 37th minute, when he slipped the ball across the area and Raheem Sterling drove past Jordan Pickford. Everton gained encouragement in the 63rd minute when Yannick Bolasie's low drive from the edge of the area flew in off the inside of the post but City, preserving energy ahead of Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg at Liverpool, comfortably saw out the game.

EPL: Manchester City one win away from title

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a Swede striker scored twice on Major League Soccer debut and inspired Los Angeles Galaxy to overturn a 3-0 deficit against LAFC.

Los Angeles Galaxy was trailing by three goals then Ibrahimovic came off the bench to score a 40-yard wonder goal.

During media interaction, he said, "I need to come in the rhythm and to feel the game. But is not only about the game you need to adjust for the weather, you need to adjust for the team, the way it plays. We need to have a balance, the way you can play, to save strength for the whole game because under this weather condition is not easy. But I think also you get used to it."

Watch the wonder goal here:

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Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s debut for <a href="https://twitter.com/LAGalaxy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LAGalaxy</a> 
 
? Zlatan subbed on at 3-1 down 
 
⚽️ Scores a screamer to equalise 
 
⚽️ Scores 90th minute winner 
 
Zlatan has arrived! ?? 
 
<a href="https://t.co/M9RxQDB4bd">pic.twitter.com/M9RxQDB4bd</a>
— Football Away Days (@sportingawayday) <a href="https://twitter.com/sportingawayday/status/980282554950606848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">1 April 2018</a></blockquote>
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Zlatan Ibrahimović on his LA Galaxy debut: 
 
? Subbed on in the 70th minute 
✅ 40-yard worldie in the 77th minute 
? Scored the winner in a 4-3 victory in the 91st minute 
 
Dare to Zlatan. ?<a href="https://t.co/Ep7joLoUDQ">https://t.co/Ep7joLoUDQ</a>
— Football Transfer (@Footy_Transferr) <a href="https://twitter.com/Footy_Transferr/status/980326539353927681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">1 April 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Thursday itself, Ibrahimovic marked his arrival at California and scored two goals including the winner.

Ibra scored a stunning volley from 40 yards just six minutes after coming on as a second-half substitute to make it 3-3.

After that, he headed home Ashley Cole's cross in injury time to put Galaxy ahead in an extraordinary finale.

Former Manchester United striker scored twice on MLS debut and inspired Los Angeles Galaxy to overturn a 3-0 deficit against LAFC

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a Swede striker scored twice on Major League Soccer debut and inspired Los Angeles Galaxy to overturn a 3-0 deficit against LAFC. Los Angeles Galaxy was trailing by three goals then Ibrahimovic came off the bench to score a 40-yard wonder goal. During media interaction, he said, "I need to come in the rhythm and to feel the game. But is not only about the game you need to adjust for the weather, you need to adjust for the team, the way it plays. We need to have a balance, the way you can play, to save strength for the whole game because under this weather condition is not easy. But I think also you get used to it." Watch the wonder goal here: Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s debut for @LAGalaxy ? Zlatan subbed on at 3-1 down ⚽️ Scores a screamer to equalise ⚽️ Scores 90th minute winner Zlatan has arrived! ?? pic.twitter.com/M9RxQDB4bd — Football Away Days (@sportingawayday) 1 April 2018 × Zlatan Ibrahimović on his LA Galaxy debut: ? Subbed on in the 70th minute ✅ 40-yard worldie in the 77th minute ? Scored the winner in a 4-3 victory in the 91st minute Dare to Zlatan. ?https://t.co/Ep7joLoUDQ — Football Transfer (@Footy_Transferr) 1 April 2018 × On Thursday itself, Ibrahimovic marked his arrival at California and scored two goals including the winner. Ibra scored a stunning volley from 40 yards just six minutes after coming on as a second-half substitute to make it 3-3. After that, he headed home Ashley Cole's cross in injury time to put Galaxy ahead in an extraordinary finale.

Watch: Ibrahimovic's debut wonder goal for LA Galaxy

European soccer has lost a "huge player" in Zlatan Ibrahimovic but the striker will raise the level of the game in the U.S following his move to LA Galaxy, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho said on Friday.

Ibrahimovic last week ended a short but successful stint at United - where he won the League Cup and the Europa League - to become the latest high-profile player to move to the MLS, following the likes of David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Thierry Henry and Frank Lampard.

Mourinho used his news conference ahead of Saturday`s Premier League game against Swansea City to pay tribute to the talismanic Swedish forward who he previously coached at Inter Milan.

"For me it`s always sad when the big players move towards the end," Mourinho told reporters.&nbsp

"I remember Luis Figo`s last match with me and Inter, it was one of my saddest moments. The Zlatan goodbye was more in that direction, he`s a huge player that European Football has lost.

"But this period with LA Galaxy will be very good for him, he will be good for American football, because of what he can do his personality, his passion and his professionalism."

Ibrahimovic sustained a bad knee injury in United`s Europa League quarter-final against Belgian side Anderlecht last April but returned to make seven appearances for the Old Trafford side this season.

"His recovery was an example of what a professional should be," Mourinho added. "For him (the move to U.S.) will just be a way to enjoy the last couple of years of football."

United will be without back-up goalkeeper Sergio Romero for the weekend`s game, after the Argentine international picked up a knock in his country`s 6-1 friendly defeat by Spain.

Ashley Young was also injured on international duty with England but could play against Carlos Carvalhal`s 14th-placed side.&nbsp

United are second in the table on 65 points from 30 games as they bid to finish as runners-up to champions-elect Manchester City.

Ibrahimovic last week ended a short but successful stint at United

European soccer has lost a "huge player" in Zlatan Ibrahimovic but the striker will raise the level of the game in the U.S following his move to LA Galaxy, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho said on Friday. Ibrahimovic last week ended a short but successful stint at United - where he won the League Cup and the Europa League - to become the latest high-profile player to move to the MLS, following the likes of David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Thierry Henry and Frank Lampard. Mourinho used his news conference ahead of Saturday`s Premier League game against Swansea City to pay tribute to the talismanic Swedish forward who he previously coached at Inter Milan. "For me it`s always sad when the big players move towards the end," Mourinho told reporters. "I remember Luis Figo`s last match with me and Inter, it was one of my saddest moments. The Zlatan goodbye was more in that direction, he`s a huge player that European Football has lost. "But this period with LA Galaxy will be very good for him, he will be good for American football, because of what he can do his personality, his passion and his professionalism." Ibrahimovic sustained a bad knee injury in United`s Europa League quarter-final against Belgian side Anderlecht last April but returned to make seven appearances for the Old Trafford side this season. "His recovery was an example of what a professional should be," Mourinho added. "For him (the move to U.S.) will just be a way to enjoy the last couple of years of football." United will be without back-up goalkeeper Sergio Romero for the weekend`s game, after the Argentine international picked up a knock in his country`s 6-1 friendly defeat by Spain. Ashley Young was also injured on international duty with England but could play against Carlos Carvalhal`s 14th-placed side. United are second in the table on 65 points from 30 games as they bid to finish as runners-up to champions-elect Manchester City.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic departure a big loss for European soccer: Mourinho

Zlatan Ibrahimovic said farewell to Manchester United on Thursday after the Premier League club agreed to terminate the Swedish striker&#39;s contract ahead of an expected move to Los Angeles Galaxy.

&quot;Manchester United confirms that it has agreed to the termination of Zlatan Ibrahimovic&rsquo;s contract with immediate effect,&quot; United said in a statement.

&quot;Everyone at the club would like to thank Zlatan for his contribution to the team since his arrival and wishes him well for the future,&quot; they said on their website. (http://www.manutd.com)

The 36-year-old, Sweden&#39;s record scorer with 62 goals in 116 games, has been linked with a move to the US&nbsp;for some time as he looks to write another chapter in his glittering club career.

&quot;Great things also come to an end and it is time to move on after two fantastic seasons with Manchester United,&quot; he said in a message to his 30 million followers on Instagram.

&quot;Thank you to the club, the fans, the team, the coach (Jose Mourinho), the staff and everybody who shared with me this part of my history. #foreverred.&quot;

His former Sweden team mates said the striker would shine in Major League Soccer if he did join LA Galaxy.

&quot;It would be fun for them to get him over there and it&#39;s always fun to see Zlatan play football,&quot; Sweden defender Pontus Jansson, who like Ibrahimovic started his professional career at Swedish club Malmo FF, told reporters on Thursday.

&quot;I haven&#39;t seen Zlatan play in a long time, he&#39;s had problems with injuries, but this will be a good start for him to get playing again,&quot; Jansson said as he prepared for Sweden&#39;s World Cup warm-up games starting this weekend.

&quot;It&#39;s fun to see Zlatan take the step to the MLS and make the league even more attractive and bigger,&quot; added Sweden striker Ola Toivonen.

LEAGUE TITLES

Ibrahimovic left Malmo to join Ajax Amsterdam, where he won the domestic championship, before moving to Juventus.

In a career at many of Europe&#39;s leading clubs Ibrahimovic won league titles with Inter Milan and AC Milan, Spanish giants Barcelona and Ligue 1 side Paris Saint Germain before linking up with his former Inter coach Jose Mourinho at Manchester United.

Despite his age, Ibrahimovic showed that he could cope with the rough-and-tumble of England&#39;s Premier League.

Ibra scored 28 goals in all competitions in his first season at United before sustaining a serious knee injury in April while playing in the Europa League against Belgian side Anderlecht.

Despite the injury he was re-signed by United at the end of the season and returned to competitive action in November, making his last appearance for the club on Dec. 26 against Burnley before injury struck again.

&quot;You&rsquo;ll be missed Lion, wish you all the best,&quot; said United team-mate Paul Pogba on Twitter.

Ibrahimovic now seems likely to follows in the footsteps of former United great David Beckham, who helped bring Galaxy and the MLS to global prominence when he joined the club in 2007.

Ibrahimovic&#39;s commercial interests include his own clothing line and a recent deal with electronics firm Samsung to test new products and a move to the United States would be logical as he approaches the final years of his playing career.

&quot;Zlatan has started to think more and more about his brand, and it&#39;s time to take over the U.S. now. It&#39;s always fun to see Zlatan play, I&#39;m happy for him,&quot; Pontus Jansson said.

Galaxy are expected to confirm his signing on Friday.

The 36-year-old, Sweden's record scorer with 62 goals in 116 games, has been linked with a move to the US for some time as he looks to write another chapter in his glittering club career.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic said farewell to Manchester United on Thursday after the Premier League club agreed to terminate the Swedish striker's contract ahead of an expected move to Los Angeles Galaxy. "Manchester United confirms that it has agreed to the termination of Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s contract with immediate effect," United said in a statement. "Everyone at the club would like to thank Zlatan for his contribution to the team since his arrival and wishes him well for the future," they said on their website. (http://www.manutd.com) The 36-year-old, Sweden's record scorer with 62 goals in 116 games, has been linked with a move to the US for some time as he looks to write another chapter in his glittering club career. "Great things also come to an end and it is time to move on after two fantastic seasons with Manchester United," he said in a message to his 30 million followers on Instagram. "Thank you to the club, the fans, the team, the coach (Jose Mourinho), the staff and everybody who shared with me this part of my history. #foreverred." His former Sweden team mates said the striker would shine in Major League Soccer if he did join LA Galaxy. "It would be fun for them to get him over there and it's always fun to see Zlatan play football," Sweden defender Pontus Jansson, who like Ibrahimovic started his professional career at Swedish club Malmo FF, told reporters on Thursday. "I haven't seen Zlatan play in a long time, he's had problems with injuries, but this will be a good start for him to get playing again," Jansson said as he prepared for Sweden's World Cup warm-up games starting this weekend. "It's fun to see Zlatan take the step to the MLS and make the league even more attractive and bigger," added Sweden striker Ola Toivonen. LEAGUE TITLES Ibrahimovic left Malmo to join Ajax Amsterdam, where he won the domestic championship, before moving to Juventus. In a career at many of Europe's leading clubs Ibrahimovic won league titles with Inter Milan and AC Milan, Spanish giants Barcelona and Ligue 1 side Paris Saint Germain before linking up with his former Inter coach Jose Mourinho at Manchester United. Despite his age, Ibrahimovic showed that he could cope with the rough-and-tumble of England's Premier League. Ibra scored 28 goals in all competitions in his first season at United before sustaining a serious knee injury in April while playing in the Europa League against Belgian side Anderlecht. Despite the injury he was re-signed by United at the end of the season and returned to competitive action in November, making his last appearance for the club on Dec. 26 against Burnley before injury struck again. "You’ll be missed Lion, wish you all the best," said United team-mate Paul Pogba on Twitter. Ibrahimovic now seems likely to follows in the footsteps of former United great David Beckham, who helped bring Galaxy and the MLS to global prominence when he joined the club in 2007. Ibrahimovic's commercial interests include his own clothing line and a recent deal with electronics firm Samsung to test new products and a move to the United States would be logical as he approaches the final years of his playing career. "Zlatan has started to think more and more about his brand, and it's time to take over the U.S. now. It's always fun to see Zlatan play, I'm happy for him," Pontus Jansson said. Galaxy are expected to confirm his signing on Friday.

Football: Ibrahimovic says farewell to Manchester United ahead of US move

Manchester United have announced plans to form a women&#39;s professional team after long being criticised for lagging behind their rivals.

The Premier League giants are the only top-flight club in England without a senior women&#39;s team.

United said they had submitted an application to the Football Association to join the second tier of the Women&#39;s Super League.

&quot;We are pleased to announce that the club intends to establish its first-ever professional women&#39;s team and has submitted an application to enter WSL2,&quot; said Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward.&nbsp;

&quot;The FA has provided excellent support through the process and we believe that launching a team in WSL2 would give many more of our graduates from the regional talent club the chance to establish themselves as first-team players.

&quot;The Manchester United women&#39;s team must be built in the same image and with the same principles as the men&#39;s first team and offer academy players a clear route to top-level football within the club.&quot;

Ex-United player and current England women&#39;s coach Phil Neville recently called on his former club to form a women&#39;s team.

Sports minister Tracey Crouch praised Manchester United for &quot;finally dragging themselves into the 21st century&quot; in the House of Commons on Thursday.

Commons Speaker John Bercow, an avid Arsenal fan, chimed in, saying: &quot;They are light years behind Arsenal.&quot;

The Premier League giants are the only top-flight club in England without a senior women's team

Manchester United have announced plans to form a women's professional team after long being criticised for lagging behind their rivals. The Premier League giants are the only top-flight club in England without a senior women's team. United said they had submitted an application to the Football Association to join the second tier of the Women's Super League. "We are pleased to announce that the club intends to establish its first-ever professional women's team and has submitted an application to enter WSL2," said Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward. "The FA has provided excellent support through the process and we believe that launching a team in WSL2 would give many more of our graduates from the regional talent club the chance to establish themselves as first-team players. "The Manchester United women's team must be built in the same image and with the same principles as the men's first team and offer academy players a clear route to top-level football within the club." Ex-United player and current England women's coach Phil Neville recently called on his former club to form a women's team. Sports minister Tracey Crouch praised Manchester United for "finally dragging themselves into the 21st century" in the House of Commons on Thursday. Commons Speaker John Bercow, an avid Arsenal fan, chimed in, saying: "They are light years behind Arsenal."

Manchester United announce plans to form professional women's team

Alexis Sanchez says he expected a lot more from himself since moving to Manchester United from Premier League rivals Arsenal in January.

The Chile international, who has scored just once in 10 appearances for United, said he has high expectations for himself and that he has struggled to adapt after the &quot;abrupt&quot; January transfer window move.

&quot;Because I demand a lot from myself, I was hoping for something better,&quot; Sanchez told reporters while on national duty in Sweden. &quot;After my arrival at United, it was hard to change everything very quickly...

&quot;The change of club was something that was very abrupt -- it was the first time I&#39;ve changed clubs in January -- but many things have happened in my life that are difficult.&quot;

The 29-year-old says he considered withdrawing from the national team squad for upcoming friendlies to stay at United and work on his game but a conversation with Chile captain Claudio Bravo changed his mind.

&quot;I had asked permission to miss these games, but then I thought better and spoke with Claudio and told him that we should all be united,&quot; Sanchez added.

Chile, who failed to qualify for this year&#39;s World Cup finals in Russia, play friendlies against Sweden on Saturday and Denmark three days later.

The Chile international, who has scored just once in 10 appearances for United, said he has high expectations for himself and that he has struggled to adapt after the "abrupt" January transfer window move.

Alexis Sanchez says he expected a lot more from himself since moving to Manchester United from Premier League rivals Arsenal in January. The Chile international, who has scored just once in 10 appearances for United, said he has high expectations for himself and that he has struggled to adapt after the "abrupt" January transfer window move. "Because I demand a lot from myself, I was hoping for something better," Sanchez told reporters while on national duty in Sweden. "After my arrival at United, it was hard to change everything very quickly... "The change of club was something that was very abrupt -- it was the first time I've changed clubs in January -- but many things have happened in my life that are difficult." The 29-year-old says he considered withdrawing from the national team squad for upcoming friendlies to stay at United and work on his game but a conversation with Chile captain Claudio Bravo changed his mind. "I had asked permission to miss these games, but then I thought better and spoke with Claudio and told him that we should all be united," Sanchez added. Chile, who failed to qualify for this year's World Cup finals in Russia, play friendlies against Sweden on Saturday and Denmark three days later.

Football: Sanchez expected more from himself after Man United move

Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic, the only two players to escape criticism from manager Jose Mourinho this week, scored the goals that carried Manchester United through to the FA Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 win over Brighton at Old Trafford.

Lukaku struck after 37 minutes although his 25th goal of the season owed everything to the delivery by team-mate Matic who sent over a far-post cross which hung invitingly for the Belgian international.&nbsp;

As he has so often this season, Lukaku powered past his marker Lewis Dunk before forcing the ball in with a header from almost point-blank range.

And seven minutes from time, Matic rose in convincing fashion to meet Ashley Young&rsquo;s pinpoint free-kick and head in a goal that finally killed off a strong second-half showing from the visitors.

Mourinho had used his pre-match press conference on Friday to launch an impassioned defence of his reign as United manager, in which he had hinted broadly that a number of his players had not been performing consistently this season - with only Lukaku and Matic singled out for praise.

Coincidentally or not, the United manager left two of his biggest signings, Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez, out of his starting line-up despite the FA Cup being his club&rsquo;s only hope of silverware this season following the disappointing midweek loss to Sevilla in the Champions League.

A flurry of snow before kick-off made sure the game kicked off in difficult conditions, and it was the half-hour mark before Brighton&rsquo;s defence was remotely troubled when Juan Mata played a series of sharp passes with Anthony Martial to open up a shooting opportunity which was deflected behind for a corner.

Mata took the set-piece himself, which ended with Tim Krul turning Chris Smalling&#39;s shot against the post.

Brighton missed a rare chance before the break when Pascal Gross&#39;s corner picked out Dunk, who had lost his marker Scott McTominay, and his powerful effort was well saved by Sergio Romero.

However, the visitors started the second half in far more ambitious mode with Gross appearing in dangerous positions to, first, shoot just wide and then see an effort blocked.

Jurgen Locadia then forced Romero into a fine save high to his right.

Albion were building momentum and should have been level when Locadia headed wastefully wide when unmarked at the back post.

That miss was proved costly as United&#39;s efficiency showed when Matic headed home their second goal from just their second shot on target all night.

Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic, the only two players to escape criticism from manager Jose Mourinho this week, scored the goals that carried Manchester United through to the FA Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 win over Brighton at Old Trafford

Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic, the only two players to escape criticism from manager Jose Mourinho this week, scored the goals that carried Manchester United through to the FA Cup semi-finals with a 2-0 win over Brighton at Old Trafford. Lukaku struck after 37 minutes although his 25th goal of the season owed everything to the delivery by team-mate Matic who sent over a far-post cross which hung invitingly for the Belgian international. As he has so often this season, Lukaku powered past his marker Lewis Dunk before forcing the ball in with a header from almost point-blank range. And seven minutes from time, Matic rose in convincing fashion to meet Ashley Young’s pinpoint free-kick and head in a goal that finally killed off a strong second-half showing from the visitors. Mourinho had used his pre-match press conference on Friday to launch an impassioned defence of his reign as United manager, in which he had hinted broadly that a number of his players had not been performing consistently this season - with only Lukaku and Matic singled out for praise. Coincidentally or not, the United manager left two of his biggest signings, Paul Pogba and Alexis Sanchez, out of his starting line-up despite the FA Cup being his club’s only hope of silverware this season following the disappointing midweek loss to Sevilla in the Champions League. A flurry of snow before kick-off made sure the game kicked off in difficult conditions, and it was the half-hour mark before Brighton’s defence was remotely troubled when Juan Mata played a series of sharp passes with Anthony Martial to open up a shooting opportunity which was deflected behind for a corner. Mata took the set-piece himself, which ended with Tim Krul turning Chris Smalling's shot against the post. Brighton missed a rare chance before the break when Pascal Gross's corner picked out Dunk, who had lost his marker Scott McTominay, and his powerful effort was well saved by Sergio Romero. However, the visitors started the second half in far more ambitious mode with Gross appearing in dangerous positions to, first, shoot just wide and then see an effort blocked. Jurgen Locadia then forced Romero into a fine save high to his right. Albion were building momentum and should have been level when Locadia headed wastefully wide when unmarked at the back post. That miss was proved costly as United's efficiency showed when Matic headed home their second goal from just their second shot on target all night.

Mourinho favourites Lukaku, Matic send Manchester United into FA Cup semi-finals

Jose Mourinho has warned Manchester United&#39;s under-performing stars that they need to &quot;grow up&quot; in the wake of the team&#39;s tame exit from the Champions League.

The fall-out from United&#39;s shock failure in a 2-1 home defeat against Sevilla is still being felt at Old Trafford, with Mourinho launching an impassioned defence of his record during Friday&#39;s press conference ahead of the FA Cup quarter-final with Brighton.

United boss Mourinho admitted his players must learn to cope with the pressure of expectations, a problem that has become all the more apparent in the wake of Tuesday&#39;s European setback.

&quot;The fans have to be sad with being out and the players have to learn how to cope with that level of expectation and that level of pressure,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;They have to survive and when they survive they become stronger. An easy life, and the fans not upset, and no critics? That&#39;s not good.

&quot;If you want to make a real top team with top mentality, you need to grow up and the best way is to have this kind of feeling.&nbsp;

&quot;I don&#39;t want the fans to have low expectations, I want the fans to have high expectations because I want the players to have expectations too.&quot;

Those players have been a major problem for Mourinho this season, especially in recent games when the form of Paul Pogba and new signing Alexis Sanchez have come in for criticism from pundits and supporters alike.

But Mourinho said losing to Sevilla was not the major surprise that many claimed, even though he had spoken of his ambition to reach this season&#39;s Champions League final.

And, tellingly, in his analysis of his players&#39; performances this season, only Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic were spared their manager&#39;s thinly-veiled criticism.

Go for the jugular

&quot;I also said we are not one of the top teams, not one of the favourites to win,&quot; Mourinho added.

&quot;I told you that with these words because I cannot tell you with different words while I am still in competition. I cannot be in competition, go there and say we have no chance.

&quot;It&#39;s the same thing. You cannot expect me to say, &#39;this and that player, they have to do better&#39;.

&quot;I prefer to say that Matic and Lukaku are performing at a high level from day one until the last match.

&quot;I cannot tell you the ones that are not performing. I cannot tell you before a Champions League match.

&quot;We went out to a side that&#39;s more successful than Manchester United in the last seven years in Europe.&nbsp;

&quot;We are out to a team that knocked out Atletico Madrid in two legs. We are knocked out by a team that is brilliant in their approach for many years, with their scouting system.&quot;

Despite his argument, Mourinho&#39;s relationship with his club&#39;s supporters is clearly at a difficult point after the events of midweek.

Mourinho conceded that, with free-spending Manchester City on course to win the title by a record margin, it will be difficult for United to challenge them in the short term.

&quot;We try but the reality is that some clubs, they were ready to win,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

&quot;One thing is to go for the jugular and another is to build a different process.&nbsp;

&quot;If the clubs that are in a better situation than us stop investing and we invest, we are side to side. If they keep investing the same or more than us, it&#39;s difficult. It&#39;s as simple as that.&nbsp;

&quot;So the fans, they read what people write, they listen what people say.

&quot;I used to call them idealists or idiots -- they can be both. In my dictionary, the dictionary of life, a person with a lot of ideas can be an ideologist or an idiot.

&quot;The people, they listen to the ideologists and they also listen to the idiots. That&#39;s life.&quot;

'I don't want the fans to have low expectations, I want the fans to have high expectations because I want the players to have expectations too,'says Manchester United coach Jose Mourinho

Jose Mourinho has warned Manchester United's under-performing stars that they need to "grow up" in the wake of the team's tame exit from the Champions League. The fall-out from United's shock failure in a 2-1 home defeat against Sevilla is still being felt at Old Trafford, with Mourinho launching an impassioned defence of his record during Friday's press conference ahead of the FA Cup quarter-final with Brighton. United boss Mourinho admitted his players must learn to cope with the pressure of expectations, a problem that has become all the more apparent in the wake of Tuesday's European setback. "The fans have to be sad with being out and the players have to learn how to cope with that level of expectation and that level of pressure," Mourinho said. "They have to survive and when they survive they become stronger. An easy life, and the fans not upset, and no critics? That's not good. "If you want to make a real top team with top mentality, you need to grow up and the best way is to have this kind of feeling. "I don't want the fans to have low expectations, I want the fans to have high expectations because I want the players to have expectations too." Those players have been a major problem for Mourinho this season, especially in recent games when the form of Paul Pogba and new signing Alexis Sanchez have come in for criticism from pundits and supporters alike. But Mourinho said losing to Sevilla was not the major surprise that many claimed, even though he had spoken of his ambition to reach this season's Champions League final. And, tellingly, in his analysis of his players' performances this season, only Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic were spared their manager's thinly-veiled criticism. Go for the jugular "I also said we are not one of the top teams, not one of the favourites to win," Mourinho added. "I told you that with these words because I cannot tell you with different words while I am still in competition. I cannot be in competition, go there and say we have no chance. "It's the same thing. You cannot expect me to say, 'this and that player, they have to do better'. "I prefer to say that Matic and Lukaku are performing at a high level from day one until the last match. "I cannot tell you the ones that are not performing. I cannot tell you before a Champions League match. "We went out to a side that's more successful than Manchester United in the last seven years in Europe. "We are out to a team that knocked out Atletico Madrid in two legs. We are knocked out by a team that is brilliant in their approach for many years, with their scouting system." Despite his argument, Mourinho's relationship with his club's supporters is clearly at a difficult point after the events of midweek. Mourinho conceded that, with free-spending Manchester City on course to win the title by a record margin, it will be difficult for United to challenge them in the short term. "We try but the reality is that some clubs, they were ready to win," he said. "One thing is to go for the jugular and another is to build a different process. "If the clubs that are in a better situation than us stop investing and we invest, we are side to side. If they keep investing the same or more than us, it's difficult. It's as simple as that. "So the fans, they read what people write, they listen what people say. "I used to call them idealists or idiots -- they can be both. In my dictionary, the dictionary of life, a person with a lot of ideas can be an ideologist or an idiot. "The people, they listen to the ideologists and they also listen to the idiots. That's life."

Jose Mourinho warns United's under-performing players

After a goalless first leg in Spain, it is Sevilla FC that stunned, rather shocked the Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United at their home ground to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Wissam Ben Yedder, the first substitute of the game for Sevilla, created history by inspiring the team in reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years.

Ben Yedder blasted the first goal in 74th minute to give a 1-0 lead to the team by hitting a beautiful grounded shot in the right corner.

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????????&nbsp;Fiesta at Old Trafford! ????????????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/I9B2g93qzr">pic.twitter.com/I9B2g93qzr</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/973685148599406593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mourinho responded by throwing on Anthony Martial and Juan Mata, but their attacking edge was needed far earlier as Ben Yedder soon stretched the lead to solidify the victory in just after 2 minutes. The second goal was actually a poor defence by Manchester players when Ben Yedder&#39;s header baffled the United&#39;s goalkeeper De Gea.

Ben Yedder was substituted by Luis Muriel in the 72nd minute and made the difference for Sevilla.

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Sevilla hero Wissam Ben Yedder has scored 8 goals in 7 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> games this season. ???????????? <a href="https://t.co/vhBJozoGh1">pic.twitter.com/vhBJozoGh1</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/973676470626344962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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For Manchester, Romelu Lukaku tried to salvage the pride at Old Trafford by heading a magnificent goal in the 84th minute and grabbed a consolation for Jose Mourinho&#39;s under-par side but the 1-2 aggregate ousted The Red Devils from the 2018 Champions league.

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A disappointing night for Manchester United...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/wEvzDDLMl2">pic.twitter.com/wEvzDDLMl2</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/973677324632776706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In a basic, boring and&nbsp;dull first half&nbsp;both the sides were creating chances but the intent of netting was lacking.&nbsp;

Manchester was close to taking a 1-0 lead but the sharp cut was dejected Sevilla goalkeeper, Sergio Rico.

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If ANYTHING pushed us to history at Old Trafford it&#39;s you ???? 
 
THANK YOU SEVILLISTAS ❤️❤️❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Gz5rqZkKl2">pic.twitter.com/Gz5rqZkKl2</a>
&mdash; Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) <a href="https://twitter.com/SevillaFC_ENG/status/973676567527329794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Though Sevilla had more chances than United and they completely outplayed Manchester United in the first half.

Manchester United have now failed to reach the quarter-finals for five straight years.

&nbsp;

Sevilla reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years; The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United crashed out

After a goalless first leg in Spain, it is Sevilla FC that stunned, rather shocked the Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United at their home ground to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Wissam Ben Yedder, the first substitute of the game for Sevilla, created history by inspiring the team in reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years. Ben Yedder blasted the first goal in 74th minute to give a 1-0 lead to the team by hitting a beautiful grounded shot in the right corner. ???????? Fiesta at Old Trafford! ????????????#UCL pic.twitter.com/I9B2g93qzr — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2018 × Mourinho responded by throwing on Anthony Martial and Juan Mata, but their attacking edge was needed far earlier as Ben Yedder soon stretched the lead to solidify the victory in just after 2 minutes. The second goal was actually a poor defence by Manchester players when Ben Yedder's header baffled the United's goalkeeper De Gea. Ben Yedder was substituted by Luis Muriel in the 72nd minute and made the difference for Sevilla. Sevilla hero Wissam Ben Yedder has scored 8 goals in 7 #UCL games this season. ???????????? pic.twitter.com/vhBJozoGh1 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2018 × For Manchester, Romelu Lukaku tried to salvage the pride at Old Trafford by heading a magnificent goal in the 84th minute and grabbed a consolation for Jose Mourinho's under-par side but the 1-2 aggregate ousted The Red Devils from the 2018 Champions league. A disappointing night for Manchester United...#UCL pic.twitter.com/wEvzDDLMl2 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2018 × In a basic, boring and dull first half both the sides were creating chances but the intent of netting was lacking. Manchester was close to taking a 1-0 lead but the sharp cut was dejected Sevilla goalkeeper, Sergio Rico. If ANYTHING pushed us to history at Old Trafford it's you ???? THANK YOU SEVILLISTAS ❤️❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/Gz5rqZkKl2 — Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) March 13, 2018 × Though Sevilla had more chances than United and they completely outplayed Manchester United in the first half. Manchester United have now failed to reach the quarter-finals for five straight years.

Champions League: Sevilla create history, boot out Manchester United

The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United crashed out of the Champions League as Wissam Ben Yedder, the star striker of Sevilla, created history by inspiring the team in reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years.

After a goalless first leg in Spain, it was&nbsp;Sevilla FC that stunned, rather shocked the Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United at their home ground to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

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Jose Mourinho post match press conference... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mansev?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mansev</a> <a href="https://t.co/v8vjPI3nmg">pic.twitter.com/v8vjPI3nmg</a>
&mdash; Mister Skillz ???????? (@ennyade66) <a href="https://twitter.com/ennyade66/status/973684001239158786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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After the match, Jose Mourinho said, &quot;I don&#39;t want to make a drama of it, we don&#39;t have time for that. We have a match on Saturday.&quot;

&quot;We don&#39;t have time to be sad for more than 24 hours&quot;

He also said, &quot;That&#39;s not the end of the world. I sat in this chair twice in the Champions League and I knocked out Manchester United at home at Old Trafford.&quot;

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????????&nbsp;Fiesta at Old Trafford! ????????????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/I9B2g93qzr">pic.twitter.com/I9B2g93qzr</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/973685148599406593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Manchester United have now failed to reach the quarter-finals for five straight years.

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A disappointing night for Manchester United...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/wEvzDDLMl2">pic.twitter.com/wEvzDDLMl2</a>
&mdash; UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/973677324632776706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

After a goalless first leg in Spain, it is Sevilla FC that stunned, rather shocked the Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United at their home ground to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League

The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United crashed out of the Champions League as Wissam Ben Yedder, the star striker of Sevilla, created history by inspiring the team in reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years. After a goalless first leg in Spain, it was Sevilla FC that stunned, rather shocked the Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United at their home ground to advance to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Jose Mourinho post match press conference... #mansev pic.twitter.com/v8vjPI3nmg — Mister Skillz ???????? (@ennyade66) March 13, 2018 × After the match, Jose Mourinho said, "I don't want to make a drama of it, we don't have time for that. We have a match on Saturday." "We don't have time to be sad for more than 24 hours" He also said, "That's not the end of the world. I sat in this chair twice in the Champions League and I knocked out Manchester United at home at Old Trafford." ???????? Fiesta at Old Trafford! ????????????#UCL pic.twitter.com/I9B2g93qzr — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2018 × Manchester United have now failed to reach the quarter-finals for five straight years. A disappointing night for Manchester United...#UCL pic.twitter.com/wEvzDDLMl2 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 13, 2018 ×

'That's not end of world', says Manchester United coach Jose Mourinho

The Red Devils from Britain are set to face The White and Reds of Spain!

The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United will meet Sevilla FC to carry forward the first leg clash which was tied 0-0 at the final whistle. United will welcome Sevilla to Old Trafford on Tuesday night/ Wednesday morning&nbsp;for the decisive second leg of the last-16. The match will start at 1:15 am IST early Wednesday morning.

The winner of the game will enter the quarter-finals. Sevilla FC has a chance to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years.

On the other hand, If Manchester United losses then it will be Michael Carrick&#39;s last match in Champions League, as he announced his retirement.

Sevilla&#39;s Italian coach Vincenzo Montella said, &quot;This will be a game&nbsp;where it will be very complicated on the pitch.&quot;

&quot;We are up against a great opponent with great players, a great manager and a club with great history. We know we&#39;ll have to give our all and take the small moments in the game which fall our way to change the game. We are ready to do all of this, he further added&quot;

Manchester United:

The Red Devils manager has confirmed that Anthony Martial is fit to return as he was absent for previous two games.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba were seen training on Monday which is a good news for Manchester United.

Manchester will enter the game with a high as they have won three consecutive wins in the Premier League. They came from behind and leapfrogged Chelsea and Crystal Palace to reach the spot two.

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Good to see <a href="https://twitter.com/AnthonyMartial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnthonyMartial</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Ibra_official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ibra_Official</a> in training ahead of tomorrow&rsquo;s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> return leg. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/L0Mi4oLdJ6">pic.twitter.com/L0Mi4oLdJ6</a>
&mdash; Manchester United (@ManUtd) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd/status/973255602628526086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sevilla FC:

Currently, Sevilla is standing at number fifth position in LaLiga and are eleven points behind number four seated Valencia, hence, their hope of finishing as top four are very less.

Sevilla recently, shared a video on Twitter that says, &quot;We have already done incredible things&hellip;.Why not again?&quot;

Though, Sevilla is also not letting this go easily as they have one advantage of not losing any of the three fixtures they have played against English opposition this season.

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We have already done incredible things&hellip;.Why not again? ???????? 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/vamosmisevilla?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#vamosmisevilla</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a> <a href="https://t.co/HHpqvGAlqX">pic.twitter.com/HHpqvGAlqX</a>
&mdash; Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) <a href="https://twitter.com/SevillaFC_ENG/status/973306059833204736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United tied 0-0 with Sevilla FC in the first leg. The second leg will be played at Old Trafford

The Red Devils from Britain are set to face The White and Reds of Spain! The Jose Mourinho-led Manchester United will meet Sevilla FC to carry forward the first leg clash which was tied 0-0 at the final whistle. United will welcome Sevilla to Old Trafford on Tuesday night/ Wednesday morning for the decisive second leg of the last-16. The match will start at 1:15 am IST early Wednesday morning. The winner of the game will enter the quarter-finals. Sevilla FC has a chance to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the first time in sixty years. On the other hand, If Manchester United losses then it will be Michael Carrick's last match in Champions League, as he announced his retirement. Sevilla's Italian coach Vincenzo Montella said, "This will be a game where it will be very complicated on the pitch." "We are up against a great opponent with great players, a great manager and a club with great history. We know we'll have to give our all and take the small moments in the game which fall our way to change the game. We are ready to do all of this, he further added" Manchester United: The Red Devils manager has confirmed that Anthony Martial is fit to return as he was absent for previous two games. Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba were seen training on Monday which is a good news for Manchester United. Manchester will enter the game with a high as they have won three consecutive wins in the Premier League. They came from behind and leapfrogged Chelsea and Crystal Palace to reach the spot two. Good to see @AnthonyMartial and @Ibra_Official in training ahead of tomorrow’s #UCL return leg. #MUFC pic.twitter.com/L0Mi4oLdJ6 — Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 12, 2018 × Sevilla FC: Currently, Sevilla is standing at number fifth position in LaLiga and are eleven points behind number four seated Valencia, hence, their hope of finishing as top four are very less. Sevilla recently, shared a video on Twitter that says, "We have already done incredible things….Why not again?" Though, Sevilla is also not letting this go easily as they have one advantage of not losing any of the three fixtures they have played against English opposition this season. We have already done incredible things….Why not again? ???????? #vamosmisevilla #UCL pic.twitter.com/HHpqvGAlqX — Sevilla FC (@SevillaFC_ENG) March 12, 2018 ×

Champions League match preview: Manchester United take on Sevilla

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick confirmed on Monday he will bring an end to his illustrious career at the end of the current season at the age of 36.

Carrick has won 18 trophies in 12 years at United, including five Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2008.

However, he has featured in just four games this season having had a procedure to treat an irregular heart rhythm detected in a League Cup game against Burton Albion in September.

&quot;There comes a time when, you like it or you don&#39;t like it, your body tells you it&#39;s time to stop playing football and that&#39;s pretty much where I&#39;m at,&quot; Carrick said on Monday.

&quot;It&#39;s fine, it&#39;s something you&#39;ve got to accept so that is where I&#39;m at.&quot;

Carrick is, though, expected to remain at United as part of Jose Mourinho&#39;s coaching staff next season.

&quot;It&#39;s kind of been sorted,&quot; added Carrick. &quot;We&#39;re still talking about it to be honest so there is nothing to totally confirm yet but it&#39;s looking likely.&quot;

&nbsp;

'There comes a time when, you like it or you don't like it, your body tells you it's time to stop playing football and that's pretty much where I'm at,' said Michael Carrick

Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick confirmed on Monday he will bring an end to his illustrious career at the end of the current season at the age of 36. Carrick has won 18 trophies in 12 years at United, including five Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2008. However, he has featured in just four games this season having had a procedure to treat an irregular heart rhythm detected in a League Cup game against Burton Albion in September. "There comes a time when, you like it or you don't like it, your body tells you it's time to stop playing football and that's pretty much where I'm at," Carrick said on Monday. "It's fine, it's something you've got to accept so that is where I'm at." Carrick is, though, expected to remain at United as part of Jose Mourinho's coaching staff next season. "It's kind of been sorted," added Carrick. "We're still talking about it to be honest so there is nothing to totally confirm yet but it's looking likely."

Michael Carrick to retire at end of the season

&quot;Perfect result. I wouldn&#39;t go so far as saying it was a perfect performance.&quot;

&quot;In the first half, the game gave us the opportunity to be direct, fast and score goals, more than we did. We were worth the win,&quot; United manager Jose Mourinho said after registering a 2-1 victory against arch-rivals Liverpool.

The reason behind &quot;perfect performance&quot; could be the secret notes that Mourinho was making during the first half of the match.

Yes, secret notes!!! The Portuguese manager of the &quot;red devils&quot; was spotted scribbling something in his notebook.

The language was so difficult to comprehend that now the Twitterati are coming up with all possible decoding tools to understand what Jose Mourinho was actually writing.

Here are some twitter reactions:

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Mourinho&lsquo;s note taking is paying dividend...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUNLIV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUNLIV</a> <a href="https://t.co/oMTB3zJ2yF">pic.twitter.com/oMTB3zJ2yF</a>
&mdash; ONSIDEVIEW.COM (@theonsideview) <a href="https://twitter.com/theonsideview/status/972461237606010881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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???? Mourinho&#39;s notes reveal all <a href="https://t.co/QaCEMZIT9p">pic.twitter.com/QaCEMZIT9p</a>
&mdash; CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) <a href="https://twitter.com/caughtoffside/status/972468081971916800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Jose Mourinho&rsquo;s notes ???? what does it say? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/munliv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#munliv</a> <a href="https://t.co/Qk76LWqhfm">pic.twitter.com/Qk76LWqhfm</a>
&mdash; 433 Formation (@433FormationX) <a href="https://twitter.com/433FormationX/status/972453020725211136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Jose Mourinho taking notes from the game against Liverpool yesterday hahaha <a href="https://t.co/qXllul3cL2">pic.twitter.com/qXllul3cL2</a>
&mdash; Reece (@_RH67) <a href="https://twitter.com/_RH67/status/972653155342221312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mourinho taking notes like <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUNLIV?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUNLIV</a> <a href="https://t.co/eYEahRIptY">pic.twitter.com/eYEahRIptY</a>
&mdash; ???? (@wowfulls_) <a href="https://twitter.com/wowfulls_/status/972455329257672705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United beat their arch-rivals Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday to consolidate second place in the Premier League table.

With runaway leaders, Manchester City on course for a third Premier League title, second place is the best the chasing pack can hope for and United moved five points ahead of Liverpool.

&nbsp;

The Portuguese manager of the "red devils" was spotted scribbling something in his notebook

"Perfect result. I wouldn't go so far as saying it was a perfect performance." "In the first half, the game gave us the opportunity to be direct, fast and score goals, more than we did. We were worth the win," United manager Jose Mourinho said after registering a 2-1 victory against arch-rivals Liverpool. The reason behind "perfect performance" could be the secret notes that Mourinho was making during the first half of the match. Yes, secret notes!!! The Portuguese manager of the "red devils" was spotted scribbling something in his notebook. The language was so difficult to comprehend that now the Twitterati are coming up with all possible decoding tools to understand what Jose Mourinho was actually writing. Here are some twitter reactions: Mourinho‘s note taking is paying dividend...#MUNLIV pic.twitter.com/oMTB3zJ2yF — ONSIDEVIEW.COM (@theonsideview) March 10, 2018 × ???? Mourinho's notes reveal all pic.twitter.com/QaCEMZIT9p — CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) March 10, 2018 × Jose Mourinho’s notes ???? what does it say? #munliv pic.twitter.com/Qk76LWqhfm — 433 Formation (@433FormationX) March 10, 2018 × Jose Mourinho taking notes from the game against Liverpool yesterday hahaha pic.twitter.com/qXllul3cL2 — Reece (@_RH67) March 11, 2018 × Mourinho taking notes like #MUNLIV pic.twitter.com/eYEahRIptY — ???? (@wowfulls_) March 10, 2018 × Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United beat their arch-rivals Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday to consolidate second place in the Premier League table. With runaway leaders, Manchester City on course for a third Premier League title, second place is the best the chasing pack can hope for and United moved five points ahead of Liverpool.

Jose Mourinho's 'secret notes' goes viral

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United beat their arch-rivals Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday to consolidate second place in the Premier League table.

With runaway leaders, Manchester City on course for a third Premier League title, second place is the best the chasing pack can hope for and United moved five points ahead of Liverpool.

United stifled Liverpool&#39;s exhilarating attack early on and raced into a two-goal lead with 24 minutes on the clock after a double from Rashford.

Eric Bailly&#39;s bizarre own goal gave Liverpool hope in the second half, but United held on for the first victory over their North West rivals since January 2016.

&quot;Perfect result. I wouldn&#39;t go so far as saying it was a perfect performance. In the first half, the game gave us the opportunity to be direct, fast and score goals, more than we did. We were worth the win,&quot; United manager Jose Mourinho said.

It was an important afternoon at the bottom of the table too, with West Ham United slipping to a damaging 3-0 home defeat by Burnley to leave them three points above the relegation zone.

There were unsavoury scenes at London Stadium where pitch invasions and mass protests in the stands forced owners David Sullivan and David Gold to leave the director&#39;s box, with police brought in to restore order.

&quot;We want the supporters behind us, since I&#39;ve been here they&#39;ve been really good. But you can&#39;t cross the line and come on the pitch,&quot; West Ham manager David Moyes said.

Matters on the pitch added to the vitriolic mood, with Ashley Barnes and a Chris Wood double steering Burnley to a second win in a week, closing the gap on sixth-placed Arsenal, who host Watford on Sunday, to two points.

Rashford Double

Much of the pre-match talk centred around how United were going to cope with Liverpool&#39;s in-form front three of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and the league&#39;s joint-top scorer Mohamed Salah.

However, even without the injured Paul Pogba, it was United who started on the front foot, adopting a more direct style with Romelu Lukaku the target and the Belgium striker was influential in both Rashford goals.

Rashford&#39;s double - on his first Premier League start since Boxing Day - proved decisive, as Liverpool couldn&#39;t add to the Bailly own goal as they slipped to a first defeat in eight games in all competitions.

&quot;It didn&#39;t go our way because of the two goals we conceded,&quot; Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said.

&quot;We have to defend these situations better. You can always lose a header or tackle with (Romelu) Lukaku but you need to close the gap in behind.&quot;

In the North East, Newcastle United secured a 3-0 victory over Southampton to move five points clear of the bottom three, piling the pressure on Saints boss Mauricio Pellegrino.

Two goals from Kenedy, on loan from Chelsea, and a Matt Ritchie strike were enough for a second successive Premier League home win for Rafael Benitez&#39;s side.

West Bromwich Albion&#39;s woes continued as they slipped to a 4-1 home defeat by Leicester City. Salomon Rondon gave West Brom the lead at The Hawthorns, but four Leicester goals without reply ensured West Brom stayed bottom, eight points from safety.

Swansea City, who had Jordan Ayew sent off in the 11th minute, held Huddersfield Town to a 0-0 draw at the John Smith&#39;s Stadium while Wayne Rooney&#39;s penalty miss mattered little as Everton beat Brighton and Hove Albion 2-0 at Goodison Park.

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United beat their arch-rivals Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday to consolidate second place in the Premier League table

Marcus Rashford scored twice as Manchester United beat their arch-rivals Liverpool 2-1 on Saturday to consolidate second place in the Premier League table. With runaway leaders, Manchester City on course for a third Premier League title, second place is the best the chasing pack can hope for and United moved five points ahead of Liverpool. United stifled Liverpool's exhilarating attack early on and raced into a two-goal lead with 24 minutes on the clock after a double from Rashford. Eric Bailly's bizarre own goal gave Liverpool hope in the second half, but United held on for the first victory over their North West rivals since January 2016. "Perfect result. I wouldn't go so far as saying it was a perfect performance. In the first half, the game gave us the opportunity to be direct, fast and score goals, more than we did. We were worth the win," United manager Jose Mourinho said. It was an important afternoon at the bottom of the table too, with West Ham United slipping to a damaging 3-0 home defeat by Burnley to leave them three points above the relegation zone. There were unsavoury scenes at London Stadium where pitch invasions and mass protests in the stands forced owners David Sullivan and David Gold to leave the director's box, with police brought in to restore order. "We want the supporters behind us, since I've been here they've been really good. But you can't cross the line and come on the pitch," West Ham manager David Moyes said. Matters on the pitch added to the vitriolic mood, with Ashley Barnes and a Chris Wood double steering Burnley to a second win in a week, closing the gap on sixth-placed Arsenal, who host Watford on Sunday, to two points. Rashford Double Much of the pre-match talk centred around how United were going to cope with Liverpool's in-form front three of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and the league's joint-top scorer Mohamed Salah. However, even without the injured Paul Pogba, it was United who started on the front foot, adopting a more direct style with Romelu Lukaku the target and the Belgium striker was influential in both Rashford goals. Rashford's double - on his first Premier League start since Boxing Day - proved decisive, as Liverpool couldn't add to the Bailly own goal as they slipped to a first defeat in eight games in all competitions. "It didn't go our way because of the two goals we conceded," Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said. "We have to defend these situations better. You can always lose a header or tackle with (Romelu) Lukaku but you need to close the gap in behind." In the North East, Newcastle United secured a 3-0 victory over Southampton to move five points clear of the bottom three, piling the pressure on Saints boss Mauricio Pellegrino. Two goals from Kenedy, on loan from Chelsea, and a Matt Ritchie strike were enough for a second successive Premier League home win for Rafael Benitez's side. West Bromwich Albion's woes continued as they slipped to a 4-1 home defeat by Leicester City. Salomon Rondon gave West Brom the lead at The Hawthorns, but four Leicester goals without reply ensured West Brom stayed bottom, eight points from safety. Swansea City, who had Jordan Ayew sent off in the 11th minute, held Huddersfield Town to a 0-0 draw at the John Smith's Stadium while Wayne Rooney's penalty miss mattered little as Everton beat Brighton and Hove Albion 2-0 at Goodison Park.

Rashford shines as Man United sink Liverpool

Jose Mourinho admits he has not got the best out of Alexis Sanchez since his January transfer because the former Arsenal forward moved to Manchester United at the &quot;wrong&quot; time.

Sanchez was signed in a swap deal that reportedly made him the Premier League&#39;s best-paid player but the Chile international has scored just one goal in eight United appearances, well below his career strike rate.

Mourinho, whose team take on Liverpool at Old Trafford on Saturday, believes it will be next season before the 29-year-old shows his best form.

&quot;What is wrong is that he came at the worst moment of the season, in the winter market,&quot; said the Manchester United boss. &quot;That&#39;s why I don&#39;t like the winter market very much.

&quot;I think this was a chance that we didn&#39;t want to lose and we made. But we don&#39;t believe a lot in the winter market.

&quot;And for sure next season will be better for him. But of course he is learning how to play with us and we are learning how to get the best out of him.&quot;

Pundits have suggested integrating Sanchez in mid-season has had an adverse effect on the form of teammates, in particular midfielder Paul Pogba.

But despite the obvious teething problems, Mourinho does not see Sanchez as a weakness in the United team.

&quot;No. That&#39;s something that we can develop and we&#39;re going to develop with time, with experience and living these experiences together,&quot; said the manager.&nbsp;

&quot;I don&#39;t consider that a weakness, I consider that a huge potential to be developed.

&quot;He&#39;s fit and if he is trying too hard, that&#39;s great. He is not afraid to take responsibilities, not afraid to try things.&quot;

Sanchez&#39;s eight appearances have included two defeats, at Tottenham and Newcastle, which all but ended United&#39;s lingering hopes of challenging Manchester City for the Premier League title.

Sanchez happy

But despite an underwhelming start to Sanchez&#39;s United career, Mourinho said the player remains happy.

&quot;He&#39;s fine,&quot; said the United boss. &quot;He&#39;s happy that the team is getting results -- lately he was unhappy when we lost matches with him but he&#39;s a guy with great maturity and attitude and we couldn&#39;t be happier.&quot;

United&#39;s eagerly awaited league encounter with rivals Liverpool comes with both clubs chasing second spot behind champions-elect City.

And, at the start of a week in which Mourinho is also looking to progress in the Champions League and FA Cup, the United manager believes he and opposite number Jurgen Klopp are at similar stages in terms of developing their clubs.

&quot;They have qualities and they have weaknesses,&quot; he said. &quot;We have qualities, and we have weaknesses.

&quot;And one of my good qualities as coach was always to know my team&#39;s weaknesses very well and sometimes I tried to hide them and sometimes I have to try to compensate them with other things.

&quot;But we are very similar in terms of points in the Premier League. Liverpool have already qualified for the (Champions League) quarter-final and we still have 90 minutes or two hours of a big fight to try to be there.&quot;

Mourinho, whose team take on Liverpool at Old Trafford on Saturday, believes it will be next season before the 29-year-old shows his best form

Jose Mourinho admits he has not got the best out of Alexis Sanchez since his January transfer because the former Arsenal forward moved to Manchester United at the "wrong" time. Sanchez was signed in a swap deal that reportedly made him the Premier League's best-paid player but the Chile international has scored just one goal in eight United appearances, well below his career strike rate. Mourinho, whose team take on Liverpool at Old Trafford on Saturday, believes it will be next season before the 29-year-old shows his best form. "What is wrong is that he came at the worst moment of the season, in the winter market," said the Manchester United boss. "That's why I don't like the winter market very much. "I think this was a chance that we didn't want to lose and we made. But we don't believe a lot in the winter market. "And for sure next season will be better for him. But of course he is learning how to play with us and we are learning how to get the best out of him." Pundits have suggested integrating Sanchez in mid-season has had an adverse effect on the form of teammates, in particular midfielder Paul Pogba. But despite the obvious teething problems, Mourinho does not see Sanchez as a weakness in the United team. "No. That's something that we can develop and we're going to develop with time, with experience and living these experiences together," said the manager. "I don't consider that a weakness, I consider that a huge potential to be developed. "He's fit and if he is trying too hard, that's great. He is not afraid to take responsibilities, not afraid to try things." Sanchez's eight appearances have included two defeats, at Tottenham and Newcastle, which all but ended United's lingering hopes of challenging Manchester City for the Premier League title. Sanchez happy But despite an underwhelming start to Sanchez's United career, Mourinho said the player remains happy. "He's fine," said the United boss. "He's happy that the team is getting results -- lately he was unhappy when we lost matches with him but he's a guy with great maturity and attitude and we couldn't be happier." United's eagerly awaited league encounter with rivals Liverpool comes with both clubs chasing second spot behind champions-elect City. And, at the start of a week in which Mourinho is also looking to progress in the Champions League and FA Cup, the United manager believes he and opposite number Jurgen Klopp are at similar stages in terms of developing their clubs. "They have qualities and they have weaknesses," he said. "We have qualities, and we have weaknesses. "And one of my good qualities as coach was always to know my team's weaknesses very well and sometimes I tried to hide them and sometimes I have to try to compensate them with other things. "But we are very similar in terms of points in the Premier League. Liverpool have already qualified for the (Champions League) quarter-final and we still have 90 minutes or two hours of a big fight to try to be there."

Sanchez transferred to Manchester United at 'wrong' time: Jose Mourinho

Juventus relied on their warrior instincts, according to midfielder Blaise Matuidi, as they stunned Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 to reach the Champions League quarter-finals 4-3 on aggregate at Wembley on Wednesday.

Needing to score twice in the second half, the Italians appeared to be heading out until goals by Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala in the 64th and 67th minutes cancelled out Son Heung-min&#39;s opener for Tottenham, ending a poor run against English clubs in two-legged European ties.

Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea had all beaten Juventus in the knockout phase of the Champions League and they lost to Fulham in the Europa League.

But Massimiliano Allegri&#39;s side are made of sterner stuff, as they have proved by reaching two of the last three Champions League finals and now going on a 21-match unbeaten run in all competitions this season.

&quot;We weren&#39;t in a great position after the 2-2 at home. We knew we could score here, we did that,&quot; 30-year-old Frenchman Matuidi, who missed the first leg, told reporters.

&quot;We were up against a very very good team that has super players and plays good football. They finished top of their group. It was a challenge, one that we faced with heart and a warrior spirit and that made the difference.&quot;

No one typifies that more than 36-year-old Andrea Barzagli, a rugged no-nonsense pillar in a back four with more than 170 Champions League appearances between them.

When Tottenham threw everything at Juve in a desperate late assault to salvage their dream, he along with Giorgio Chiellini, Medhi Benatia and Alex Sandro stood firm in the storm.

Barzagli believes it is their kindred spirit that will make Juve feared quarter-final opponents.

&quot;We can really achieve anything with this great character, we played badly for over one hour and than turned everything around with two great goals,&quot; he said.

&quot;We were also lucky, but I think you deserve luck when you are ready to fight and sacrifice as we did tonight.&quot;

Chiellini said a calmness under pressure had allowed Juve to reach the quarter-final for the third time in their last five appearances in the competition.

&quot;At halftime we told ourselves that we had to remain calm despite suffering so much because our chances would come,&quot; he said.

&quot;Tottenham proved to be a great team, I think they are missing very little in becoming one of the best teams in Europe, maybe some experience.

&quot;A few years ago we were in the same place, and reaching two finals in the last three seasons helped us to better handle these kinds of games.&quot;

Allegri, whose decision to send on fresh legs in the shape of Kwadwo Asamoah and Stephan Lichtsteiner on the hour proved a masterstroke, praised his side&#39;s durability.

&quot;The lads were patient to wait for the right moment to hit them,&quot; he said. &quot;Considering the whole 180 minutes, I think our qualification was deserved.

&quot;In the first half we suffered a lot against a team with great quality. I decided that we needed fresh legs on the flanks, so I put Asamoah and Lichtsteiner in. I&#39;m happy it paid off.&quot;

Juventus relied on their warrior instincts, according to midfielder Blaise Matuidi, as they stunned Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 to reach the Champions League quarter-finals 4-3 on aggregate at Wembley

Juventus relied on their warrior instincts, according to midfielder Blaise Matuidi, as they stunned Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 to reach the Champions League quarter-finals 4-3 on aggregate at Wembley on Wednesday. Needing to score twice in the second half, the Italians appeared to be heading out until goals by Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala in the 64th and 67th minutes cancelled out Son Heung-min's opener for Tottenham, ending a poor run against English clubs in two-legged European ties. Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea had all beaten Juventus in the knockout phase of the Champions League and they lost to Fulham in the Europa League. But Massimiliano Allegri's side are made of sterner stuff, as they have proved by reaching two of the last three Champions League finals and now going on a 21-match unbeaten run in all competitions this season. "We weren't in a great position after the 2-2 at home. We knew we could score here, we did that," 30-year-old Frenchman Matuidi, who missed the first leg, told reporters. "We were up against a very very good team that has super players and plays good football. They finished top of their group. It was a challenge, one that we faced with heart and a warrior spirit and that made the difference." No one typifies that more than 36-year-old Andrea Barzagli, a rugged no-nonsense pillar in a back four with more than 170 Champions League appearances between them. When Tottenham threw everything at Juve in a desperate late assault to salvage their dream, he along with Giorgio Chiellini, Medhi Benatia and Alex Sandro stood firm in the storm. Barzagli believes it is their kindred spirit that will make Juve feared quarter-final opponents. "We can really achieve anything with this great character, we played badly for over one hour and than turned everything around with two great goals," he said. "We were also lucky, but I think you deserve luck when you are ready to fight and sacrifice as we did tonight." Chiellini said a calmness under pressure had allowed Juve to reach the quarter-final for the third time in their last five appearances in the competition. "At halftime we told ourselves that we had to remain calm despite suffering so much because our chances would come," he said. "Tottenham proved to be a great team, I think they are missing very little in becoming one of the best teams in Europe, maybe some experience. "A few years ago we were in the same place, and reaching two finals in the last three seasons helped us to better handle these kinds of games." Allegri, whose decision to send on fresh legs in the shape of Kwadwo Asamoah and Stephan Lichtsteiner on the hour proved a masterstroke, praised his side's durability. "The lads were patient to wait for the right moment to hit them," he said. "Considering the whole 180 minutes, I think our qualification was deserved. "In the first half we suffered a lot against a team with great quality. I decided that we needed fresh legs on the flanks, so I put Asamoah and Lichtsteiner in. I'm happy it paid off."

Champions league: Matuidi praises Juventus's warrior spirit after victory over Spurs

Jose Mourinho revealed his expletive-filled half-time rant inspired Manchester United&#39;s dramatic 3-2 win over Crystal Palace.

Mourinho&#39;s side fought back from two goals down at Selhurst Park to snatch the points thanks to Nemanja Matic&#39;s blistering long-range strike in stoppage-time.

United trailed to goals from Andros Townsend and Patrick van Aanholt before Chris Smalling gave the visitors a lifeline.

Romelu Lukaku equalised with 14 minutes remaining, setting the stage for Serbia midfielder Matic to notch his first goal for United since his move from Chelsea last year.

Mourinho admitted he was furious with his players&#39; lethargic first-half performance and he tore into them while demanding they show more tactical discipline.

&quot;I cannot tell you half of the things I told my team at half-time because there would be lots of bleeping on television,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;There were a few strong words relating to their attitude and the intensity of the game.&nbsp;

&quot;What I can say was all about the tactical positioning. That second goal was a goal to show kids in academies around the country, to show that top players can concede silly goals.&nbsp;

&quot;David De Gea had to do better. He is the best, no doubt, but he had to do better.&nbsp;

&quot;But the intensity and character was fantastic. We got a bit of luck in the last minute but it was deserved.&nbsp;

&quot;The urgency in that last half hour was huge.&quot;&nbsp;

It was the first time United had come from 2-0 down to win a Premier League game since December 2013 at Hull.&nbsp;

After hitting back from a goal down to beat Chelsea last weekend, Mourinho insisted this was another demonstration that United have the spirit and desire to overcome perilous predicaments.&nbsp;

- Keep the faith -

&quot;We were losing to Chelsea last week, then we were losing away from home against a Palace team that needs points,&quot; he said.

&quot;It&#39;s very hard but we kept faith and belief.

&quot;I always believe we can win. I will be like that until my last day.&nbsp;

&quot;Some days more than others but after Smalling&#39;s goal, I always thought it was possible.&nbsp;

&quot;Matic scored amazing goals like this when he was with me at Chelsea, at Goodison Park, against Benfica.&quot;

United&#39;s stirring revival moved them back above Liverpool into second place in the Premier League.&nbsp;

They trail runaway leaders Manchester City by 16 points, but Mourinho is more concerned with securing the top four finish that guarantees qualification for next season&#39;s Champions League.&nbsp;

&quot;We want to finish second, but it is huge pressure for us to finish in the top four. Now we have a little pillow,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

Palace remain in the relegation zone, one point from safety, but Eagles boss Roy Hodgson urged his players not to let the heartbreaking defeat influence their fight for survival.&nbsp;

&quot;We took the game to Manchester United. If we had drawn the game - I don&#39;t think anyone, Jose included - would have said it was a scandal,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

&quot;We once again go away with no points and, like the game against Tottenham, I thought we deserved something.&nbsp;

&quot;But you always know the quality they possess and the strength and depth they have. They can cause problems.&nbsp;

&quot;Where we are in the table doesn&#39;t enter my mind. It would have been nice to have two more points, but we still would have been very much in a relegation battle.&nbsp;

&quot;It could well go down to the wire.&quot;

Mourinho's side fought back from two goals down at Selhurst Park to snatch the points thanks to Nemanja Matic's blistering long-range strike in stoppage-time

Jose Mourinho revealed his expletive-filled half-time rant inspired Manchester United's dramatic 3-2 win over Crystal Palace. Mourinho's side fought back from two goals down at Selhurst Park to snatch the points thanks to Nemanja Matic's blistering long-range strike in stoppage-time. United trailed to goals from Andros Townsend and Patrick van Aanholt before Chris Smalling gave the visitors a lifeline. Romelu Lukaku equalised with 14 minutes remaining, setting the stage for Serbia midfielder Matic to notch his first goal for United since his move from Chelsea last year. Mourinho admitted he was furious with his players' lethargic first-half performance and he tore into them while demanding they show more tactical discipline. "I cannot tell you half of the things I told my team at half-time because there would be lots of bleeping on television," Mourinho said. "There were a few strong words relating to their attitude and the intensity of the game. "What I can say was all about the tactical positioning. That second goal was a goal to show kids in academies around the country, to show that top players can concede silly goals. "David De Gea had to do better. He is the best, no doubt, but he had to do better. "But the intensity and character was fantastic. We got a bit of luck in the last minute but it was deserved. "The urgency in that last half hour was huge." It was the first time United had come from 2-0 down to win a Premier League game since December 2013 at Hull. After hitting back from a goal down to beat Chelsea last weekend, Mourinho insisted this was another demonstration that United have the spirit and desire to overcome perilous predicaments. - Keep the faith - "We were losing to Chelsea last week, then we were losing away from home against a Palace team that needs points," he said. "It's very hard but we kept faith and belief. "I always believe we can win. I will be like that until my last day. "Some days more than others but after Smalling's goal, I always thought it was possible. "Matic scored amazing goals like this when he was with me at Chelsea, at Goodison Park, against Benfica." United's stirring revival moved them back above Liverpool into second place in the Premier League. They trail runaway leaders Manchester City by 16 points, but Mourinho is more concerned with securing the top four finish that guarantees qualification for next season's Champions League. "We want to finish second, but it is huge pressure for us to finish in the top four. Now we have a little pillow," he said. Palace remain in the relegation zone, one point from safety, but Eagles boss Roy Hodgson urged his players not to let the heartbreaking defeat influence their fight for survival. "We took the game to Manchester United. If we had drawn the game - I don't think anyone, Jose included - would have said it was a scandal," he said. "We once again go away with no points and, like the game against Tottenham, I thought we deserved something. "But you always know the quality they possess and the strength and depth they have. They can cause problems. "Where we are in the table doesn't enter my mind. It would have been nice to have two more points, but we still would have been very much in a relegation battle. "It could well go down to the wire."

Jose Mourinho hails 'luck' for dramatic win over Crystal Palace

Romelu Lukaku broke his barren run against top six Premier League opposition and provided the winner for Jesse Lingard as Manchester United came from behind to beat Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford.

Victory against his former club was particularly sweet for Jose Mourinho as he got one over on Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, but more importantly moves United back above Liverpool into second place in the Premier League.

Defeat allied to Tottenham Hotspur`s late win earlier in the day at Crystal Palace sees Chelsea slip to fifth.

The visitors enjoyed the better of the first period but failed to build on Willian`s 32nd minute opener.

Lukaku levelled seven minutes later from close range and then crossed for substitute Lingard to head home as a ruthless United took full advantage of their limited chances.&nbsp;

The spectre of another fiery clash between Mourinho and Conte, who have publicly bickered in recent months, hogged the headlines before kick-off, but there was a peace offering when the pair shook hands before the action got underway.

Mourinho recalled Paul Pogba to his starting XI after dropping the &pound;89 million (100 million euros, $124 million) midfielder for Wednesday`s stalemate at Sevilla in the Champions League.

But it was one of Conte`s two changes from his side`s 1-1 draw with Barcelona in midweek who nearly made an immediate impact.

Alvaro Morata started for the first time in six weeks, but saw his side-footed volley from Marcos Alonso`s driven cross come back off the bar just four minutes in.

Chelsea dominated possession in the opening quarter, but much like they did to Barcelona on Tuesday with limited time on the ball, United restricted them to few other clear-cut chances.

United had offered little going forward themselves until Anthony Martial`s low cross picked out Alexis Sanchez inside the area.

However, the Chilean is still waiting for his first big moment since joining United last month as he poked the ball tamely into the arms of Thibaut Courtois.Moments later, the hosts were caught by a blistering Chelsea counter-attack to open the scoring.

Willian picked up the ball just outside his own area and drove through the United midfield before exchanging passes with Eden Hazard.

The Brazilian then unleashed a shot too powerful even for David de Gea to register his fourth goal in three games.

The lead lasted just seven minutes, though, as for the first time in a United shirt, Lukaku netted against one of their top six rivals -- at the seventh time of asking.

Sanchez fed Martial and his clever reverse pass was slotted home by Lukaku to muted celebrations against his former club.

Lukaku nearly had a spectacular second 22 minutes from time when he caught a Sanchez cross flush with an acrobatic volley, only to be denied by a finger tip save from Courtois.

However, the Belgian did make a decisive contribution when he dropped deep and his in-swinging cross was met by a perfectly timed run by Lingard.

Conte had surprisingly removed Hazard just before conceding and that decision looked all the more puzzling as Chelsea searched in vain for an equaliser.

Willian saw another effort smothered by De Gea at the second attempt at his near post as United held out for just a second win over Chelsea in 15 meetings.

The visitors enjoyed the better of the first period

Romelu Lukaku broke his barren run against top six Premier League opposition and provided the winner for Jesse Lingard as Manchester United came from behind to beat Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford. Victory against his former club was particularly sweet for Jose Mourinho as he got one over on Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, but more importantly moves United back above Liverpool into second place in the Premier League. Defeat allied to Tottenham Hotspur`s late win earlier in the day at Crystal Palace sees Chelsea slip to fifth. The visitors enjoyed the better of the first period but failed to build on Willian`s 32nd minute opener. Lukaku levelled seven minutes later from close range and then crossed for substitute Lingard to head home as a ruthless United took full advantage of their limited chances. The spectre of another fiery clash between Mourinho and Conte, who have publicly bickered in recent months, hogged the headlines before kick-off, but there was a peace offering when the pair shook hands before the action got underway. Mourinho recalled Paul Pogba to his starting XI after dropping the £89 million (100 million euros, $124 million) midfielder for Wednesday`s stalemate at Sevilla in the Champions League. But it was one of Conte`s two changes from his side`s 1-1 draw with Barcelona in midweek who nearly made an immediate impact. Alvaro Morata started for the first time in six weeks, but saw his side-footed volley from Marcos Alonso`s driven cross come back off the bar just four minutes in. Chelsea dominated possession in the opening quarter, but much like they did to Barcelona on Tuesday with limited time on the ball, United restricted them to few other clear-cut chances. United had offered little going forward themselves until Anthony Martial`s low cross picked out Alexis Sanchez inside the area. However, the Chilean is still waiting for his first big moment since joining United last month as he poked the ball tamely into the arms of Thibaut Courtois.Moments later, the hosts were caught by a blistering Chelsea counter-attack to open the scoring. Willian picked up the ball just outside his own area and drove through the United midfield before exchanging passes with Eden Hazard. The Brazilian then unleashed a shot too powerful even for David de Gea to register his fourth goal in three games. The lead lasted just seven minutes, though, as for the first time in a United shirt, Lukaku netted against one of their top six rivals -- at the seventh time of asking. Sanchez fed Martial and his clever reverse pass was slotted home by Lukaku to muted celebrations against his former club. Lukaku nearly had a spectacular second 22 minutes from time when he caught a Sanchez cross flush with an acrobatic volley, only to be denied by a finger tip save from Courtois. However, the Belgian did make a decisive contribution when he dropped deep and his in-swinging cross was met by a perfectly timed run by Lingard. Conte had surprisingly removed Hazard just before conceding and that decision looked all the more puzzling as Chelsea searched in vain for an equaliser. Willian saw another effort smothered by De Gea at the second attempt at his near post as United held out for just a second win over Chelsea in 15 meetings.

Manchester United beat Chelsea 2-1 in Premier League

David de Gea deflected the attention away from Paul Pogba with another spectacular display of goalkeeping as Manchester United came away from their Champions League last 16, first leg against Sevilla in Spain with a 0-0 draw on Wednesday.

De Gea made two breathtaking saves to deny Steven N`Zonzi and Luis Muriel at the end of the first half at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, denying Sevilla a lead to take to England for next month`s return.

Sevilla were the more likely side, with United offering little going forward despite the presence of Alexis Sanchez, Romelu Lukaku and Juan Mata in their attack.

Lukaku had a late goal disallowed, but United`s was the kind of cautious approach seen time and again in such games by Mourinho`s teams down the years.

Their inability, unwillingness even, to get an away goal leaves the tie wide open ahead of the second leg, with United looking to reach the quarter-finals in their first appearance in the knockout stage of the Champions League since 2014.

&quot;The only moment where we felt relieved was in the last couple of moments of the first half when from a couple of our mistakes in possession they had a couple of good situations and De Gea made good saves,&quot; said Mourinho.

His team managed just one attempt on target to Sevilla`s eight, but Mourinho added: &quot;Apart from that the game was even, but the statistics are what they are.

&quot;I really feel the result reflected what the game was -- you ask me was it a good result, and I say it was not good and not bad.&quot;

Mourinho decided to leave Pogba out of his starting line-up, despite the Frenchman being back in the squad after illness had kept him out of United`s FA Cup win at Huddersfield Town.

Fuelling the speculation of an uneasy relationship between Mourinho and the France midfielder, the United manager chose to select 21-year-old Scott McTominay ahead of Pogba in a midfield three.However, an untimely injury to Ander Herrera meant Pogba was thrown on after just 17 minutes of a first half dominated by the Spanish side.&nbsp;

Sevilla, looking to make it past the last 16 of the Champions League after falling in their three previous appearances at this stage over the last decade, could and should have had a goal to show for their performance.

De Gea made one good early save low down to deny Colombian Muriel, while Jesus Navas, impressive at right-back, fired just wide after latching onto Ever Banega`s cross-field pass.

Stepping up the pressure just before half-time, Joaquin Correa`s shot from a good position was too easy for De Gea, but the Spain `keeper displayed all his class as he kept out headed attempts from N`Zonzi and Muriel from point-blank range, both saves requiring breathtaking reactions.

The importance to United of not letting in a goal was clear -- they had kept eight clean sheets in their 10 matches before heading to Andalusia, with their only defeats in that time coming in the two games in which they had conceded. 
And they were content to leave Spain with a 0-0 draw, continuing to soak up pressure in the second half and relying on Sevilla`s indecision in the final third.

They were also aided by Pablo Sarabia`s inability to find the target from an inviting Muriel cross in the 73rd minute, before Lukaku`s goal was ruled out by French referee Clement Turpin for a handball as he controlled before shooting.

&quot;I am very happy with the character shown by the team,&quot; Sevilla`s Italian coach Vincenzo Montella told Spanish television. &quot;We have to be pleased with the performance. The 0-0 leaves everything open.&quot; 
Whether Mourinho`s team should have been more adventurous will only become clear after the return in Manchester in three weeks. 
 
&nbsp;

De Gea made two breathtaking saves to deny Steven N`Zonzi and Luis Muriel at the end of the first half at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, denying Sevilla a lead to take to England for next month`s return.

David de Gea deflected the attention away from Paul Pogba with another spectacular display of goalkeeping as Manchester United came away from their Champions League last 16, first leg against Sevilla in Spain with a 0-0 draw on Wednesday. De Gea made two breathtaking saves to deny Steven N`Zonzi and Luis Muriel at the end of the first half at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, denying Sevilla a lead to take to England for next month`s return. Sevilla were the more likely side, with United offering little going forward despite the presence of Alexis Sanchez, Romelu Lukaku and Juan Mata in their attack. Lukaku had a late goal disallowed, but United`s was the kind of cautious approach seen time and again in such games by Mourinho`s teams down the years. Their inability, unwillingness even, to get an away goal leaves the tie wide open ahead of the second leg, with United looking to reach the quarter-finals in their first appearance in the knockout stage of the Champions League since 2014. "The only moment where we felt relieved was in the last couple of moments of the first half when from a couple of our mistakes in possession they had a couple of good situations and De Gea made good saves," said Mourinho. His team managed just one attempt on target to Sevilla`s eight, but Mourinho added: "Apart from that the game was even, but the statistics are what they are. "I really feel the result reflected what the game was -- you ask me was it a good result, and I say it was not good and not bad." Mourinho decided to leave Pogba out of his starting line-up, despite the Frenchman being back in the squad after illness had kept him out of United`s FA Cup win at Huddersfield Town. Fuelling the speculation of an uneasy relationship between Mourinho and the France midfielder, the United manager chose to select 21-year-old Scott McTominay ahead of Pogba in a midfield three.However, an untimely injury to Ander Herrera meant Pogba was thrown on after just 17 minutes of a first half dominated by the Spanish side. Sevilla, looking to make it past the last 16 of the Champions League after falling in their three previous appearances at this stage over the last decade, could and should have had a goal to show for their performance. De Gea made one good early save low down to deny Colombian Muriel, while Jesus Navas, impressive at right-back, fired just wide after latching onto Ever Banega`s cross-field pass. Stepping up the pressure just before half-time, Joaquin Correa`s shot from a good position was too easy for De Gea, but the Spain `keeper displayed all his class as he kept out headed attempts from N`Zonzi and Muriel from point-blank range, both saves requiring breathtaking reactions. The importance to United of not letting in a goal was clear -- they had kept eight clean sheets in their 10 matches before heading to Andalusia, with their only defeats in that time coming in the two games in which they had conceded. And they were content to leave Spain with a 0-0 draw, continuing to soak up pressure in the second half and relying on Sevilla`s indecision in the final third. They were also aided by Pablo Sarabia`s inability to find the target from an inviting Muriel cross in the 73rd minute, before Lukaku`s goal was ruled out by French referee Clement Turpin for a handball as he controlled before shooting. "I am very happy with the character shown by the team," Sevilla`s Italian coach Vincenzo Montella told Spanish television. "We have to be pleased with the performance. The 0-0 leaves everything open." Whether Mourinho`s team should have been more adventurous will only become clear after the return in Manchester in three weeks.

Champions League: De Gea stars as Manchester United settle for Sevilla draw

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