Eden Hazard's first-half penalty proved decisive as Chelsea salvaged their season by beating Manchester United 1-0 in the FA Cup final in what is widely-expected to be manager Antonio Conte's swansong on Saturday.

The Belgian's searing pace earned the spot-kick in the 21st minute after forcing Phil Jones into a desperate lunging tackle and he coolly tucked it away for what proved to be the winner.

Jose Mourinho's United were dismal in a scrappy first half and although they improved significantly after the break they were denied a record-equalling 13th FA Cup triumph and ended the season without a trophy.

Chelsea, whose Premier League title defence fizzled out into a fifth-placed finish, survived several scares but they defended superbly as Conte celebrated his first domestic cup honour as a manager having seen his side beaten by Arsenal a year ago.

It was only Mourinho's third defeat in 15 Cup finals as a manager.

The Belgian's searing pace earned the spot-kick in the 21st minute after forcing Phil Jones into a desperate lunging tackle and he coolly tucked it away for what proved to be the winner

Eden Hazard's first-half penalty proved decisive as Chelsea salvaged their season by beating Manchester United 1-0 in the FA Cup final in what is widely-expected to be manager Antonio Conte's swansong on Saturday. The Belgian's searing pace earned the spot-kick in the 21st minute after forcing Phil Jones into a desperate lunging tackle and he coolly tucked it away for what proved to be the winner. Jose Mourinho's United were dismal in a scrappy first half and although they improved significantly after the break they were denied a record-equalling 13th FA Cup triumph and ended the season without a trophy. Chelsea, whose Premier League title defence fizzled out into a fifth-placed finish, survived several scares but they defended superbly as Conte celebrated his first domestic cup honour as a manager having seen his side beaten by Arsenal a year ago. It was only Mourinho's third defeat in 15 Cup finals as a manager.

Chelsea edge Man United in FA Cup final with Hazard penalty

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte said he is focused on making sure his side finish the season with a trophy in Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United rather than commenting on speculation over his future at Stamford Bridge.

A 3-0 defeat at Newcastle United on the final day of the Premier League season ended Chelsea's hopes of Champions League qualification as they finished fifth in the standings.

According to British media reports, Conte is expected to leave the London side at the end of the campaign after disagreements with the club hierarchy over transfer policy.

When asked if the final at Wembley will be his last game with Chelsea, Conte said: "I don't know.

"For sure I think we must be focused on tomorrow's game. For us this game is very important because we have, in a difficult season, to finish the season with a trophy.

"It's always important for the players, for the coach, for the manager, for our fans, for the club, to finish the season with a trophy.

"We're focused on this target. We have to try to do everything to win the game tomorrow."

Saturday's clash pits Conte against United manager Jose Mourinho, who won the FA Cup with Chelsea in 2007.

The duo have been involved in a war of words since the start of last season but they shook hands during their league meeting at Old Trafford in February.

"There is a normal relationship between him and me," Conte added. "I will shake his hand tomorrow, for sure. And then we will think about the game."

Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard believes victory at Wembley can salvage a disappointing season.

"At the moment we have nothing," the 27-year-old Belgian told reporters. "We are not qualified for the Champions League next season, so this season has been bad.

"We can save a little bit of the season with this trophy, so we will give everything. I never won the FA Cup in six years. I hope this year is for me and for Chelsea."

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte said he is focused on making sure his side finish the season with a trophy

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte said he is focused on making sure his side finish the season with a trophy in Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United rather than commenting on speculation over his future at Stamford Bridge. A 3-0 defeat at Newcastle United on the final day of the Premier League season ended Chelsea's hopes of Champions League qualification as they finished fifth in the standings. According to British media reports, Conte is expected to leave the London side at the end of the campaign after disagreements with the club hierarchy over transfer policy. When asked if the final at Wembley will be his last game with Chelsea, Conte said: "I don't know. "For sure I think we must be focused on tomorrow's game. For us this game is very important because we have, in a difficult season, to finish the season with a trophy. "It's always important for the players, for the coach, for the manager, for our fans, for the club, to finish the season with a trophy. "We're focused on this target. We have to try to do everything to win the game tomorrow." Saturday's clash pits Conte against United manager Jose Mourinho, who won the FA Cup with Chelsea in 2007. The duo have been involved in a war of words since the start of last season but they shook hands during their league meeting at Old Trafford in February. "There is a normal relationship between him and me," Conte added. "I will shake his hand tomorrow, for sure. And then we will think about the game." Chelsea playmaker Eden Hazard believes victory at Wembley can salvage a disappointing season. "At the moment we have nothing," the 27-year-old Belgian told reporters. "We are not qualified for the Champions League next season, so this season has been bad. "We can save a little bit of the season with this trophy, so we will give everything. I never won the FA Cup in six years. I hope this year is for me and for Chelsea."

Antonio Conte focused on securing FA Cup success amid Chelsea exit talk

Jose Mourinho will wait until the last minute before deciding whether Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku is fit to feature in Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea.

Lukaku has missed United's last three matches after suffering an ankle injury against Arsenal in April.

The Belgium striker is in a race against time to be fit for the Wembley showdown with his former club.

And United manager Mourinho, possibly hoping to keep Chelsea guessing, said on Friday that he remains uncertain if Lukaku will be available.

Mourinho will be able to call on French forward Anthony Martial, who has recovered from the knee injury he sustained in training.

"Martial is fit. Lukaku we have to wait until the last moment. I don't want to lie and say he doesn't play or vice versa," Mourinho told reporters at United's hotel.

It would be a significant blow to United's hopes of winning the FA Cup for a record-equalling 13th time if Lukaku is unable to pass his late fitness test.

Since Lukaku was sidelined, United have lacked a cutting edge and they scored only once in their last three games of the season.

The 25-year-old energised United with a goal spree at the start of the season after arriving from Everton in a £75 million ($101 million) deal.

Lukaku has scored 27 times for United in all competitions this season, making his first season at Old Trafford a success overall.

But he went through a sustained barren patch -- with one goal in 12 games -- after opposing defences began to sit deeper to stop the Belgian hurting them with his pace.

Mourinho was also forced to defend Lukaku from criticism by United fans frustrated at what they perceived as a lack of effort from their muscular forward.

Lukaku got back on track at the start of 2018, but had scored just once in his last five appearances before picking up the injury that leaves his Cup final hopes of a knife-edge.

&nbsp

Lukaku has missed United's last three matches after suffering an ankle injury against Arsenal in April

Jose Mourinho will wait until the last minute before deciding whether Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku is fit to feature in Saturday's FA Cup final against Chelsea. Lukaku has missed United's last three matches after suffering an ankle injury against Arsenal in April. The Belgium striker is in a race against time to be fit for the Wembley showdown with his former club. And United manager Mourinho, possibly hoping to keep Chelsea guessing, said on Friday that he remains uncertain if Lukaku will be available. Mourinho will be able to call on French forward Anthony Martial, who has recovered from the knee injury he sustained in training. "Martial is fit. Lukaku we have to wait until the last moment. I don't want to lie and say he doesn't play or vice versa," Mourinho told reporters at United's hotel. It would be a significant blow to United's hopes of winning the FA Cup for a record-equalling 13th time if Lukaku is unable to pass his late fitness test. Since Lukaku was sidelined, United have lacked a cutting edge and they scored only once in their last three games of the season. The 25-year-old energised United with a goal spree at the start of the season after arriving from Everton in a £75 million ($101 million) deal. Lukaku has scored 27 times for United in all competitions this season, making his first season at Old Trafford a success overall. But he went through a sustained barren patch -- with one goal in 12 games -- after opposing defences began to sit deeper to stop the Belgian hurting them with his pace. Mourinho was also forced to defend Lukaku from criticism by United fans frustrated at what they perceived as a lack of effort from their muscular forward. Lukaku got back on track at the start of 2018, but had scored just once in his last five appearances before picking up the injury that leaves his Cup final hopes of a knife-edge.

FA Cup final: Jose Mourinho will wait to decide on Lukaku's fitness

Chelsea's Cesc Fabregas says he owes Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho a debt of gratitude for handing him a second chance in English football.

The Spanish midfielder will hope to ruin Mourinho's day in Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United and salvage something from a disappointing campaign.

But win or lose, Fabregas says he is full of admiration for the man who signed him for Chelsea in 2014, during Mourinho's second spell in charge at Stamford Bridge.

After three years at boyhood club Barcelona, following a move from Arsenal where Fabregas spent almost a decade, the 31-year-old proved a pivotal figure as Chelsea claimed the 2014-15 title, providing a league-leading 18 goal assists.

"I love him. I always say that. I owe him a lot because he brought me here, I will always remember that" Fabregas told reporters at Chelsea's training ground this week.

"My first year here, (former Arsenal manager) Arsene (Wenger) had always treated me like a son. But the closest anyone has been to him was Jose.

"The way he treated me, the way he made me feel, how he let me be a leader of the team from day one. This was fantastic and in all the four years since I joined Chelsea now, they will always stay with me.

"This experience is thanks to him."

Yet Fabregas has spent a large part of his career in opposition to Mourinho -- as he will do again at Wembley on Saturday when Chelsea hope to make up for finishing fifth in the Premier League with a first FA Cup win since 2012.

The early years of Fabregas's stint at Arsenal coincided with Mourinho's arrival as manager of Chelsea, while he was also part of a Barcelona side that was vying for Spanish supremacy with Mourinho's Real Madrid.

"We have our history between us," Fabregas said. "I played for Arsenal and him at Chelsea. Barcelona with him Real Madrid. We were confronting each other, but then we humbled ourselves and started a good relationship.

"This is very nice but hopefully it will not be his day (on Saturday) and Chelsea can win."

Apart from Fabregas, several other players from the 2014-15 title-winning team including Gary Cahill, Willian and Eden Hazard will be involved on Saturday.

While they will all be familiar with Mourinho's methods, Fabregas knows their old manager will conjure something new for a one-off game that means so much to both teams.

"In the last two years we played many games against them and he has changed the system many times," Fabregas said.

"I am sure he will change something again on Saturday. You can expect that. We just need to prepare our game and focus on ourselves. We don't need to be thinking too much about what they are going to do and we have to do what we do."

United finished runners-up in the Premier League and are favourites against a Chelsea side who ended the league season with a 3-0 defeat by Newcastle United.

Fabregas said last season's final when Chelsea lost to Arsenal after winning the Premier League title showed why the Wembley showpiece is so hard to call.

"Anything can happen really," he said. "Last year everyone was saying Chelsea will win it and we played one of our worst games of last season. Mourinho prepares finals very well and I am sure Antonio (Conte) will do the same."

The Spanish midfielder will hope to ruin Mourinho's day in Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United and salvage something from a disappointing campaign

Chelsea's Cesc Fabregas says he owes Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho a debt of gratitude for handing him a second chance in English football. The Spanish midfielder will hope to ruin Mourinho's day in Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester United and salvage something from a disappointing campaign. But win or lose, Fabregas says he is full of admiration for the man who signed him for Chelsea in 2014, during Mourinho's second spell in charge at Stamford Bridge. After three years at boyhood club Barcelona, following a move from Arsenal where Fabregas spent almost a decade, the 31-year-old proved a pivotal figure as Chelsea claimed the 2014-15 title, providing a league-leading 18 goal assists. "I love him. I always say that. I owe him a lot because he brought me here, I will always remember that" Fabregas told reporters at Chelsea's training ground this week. "My first year here, (former Arsenal manager) Arsene (Wenger) had always treated me like a son. But the closest anyone has been to him was Jose. "The way he treated me, the way he made me feel, how he let me be a leader of the team from day one. This was fantastic and in all the four years since I joined Chelsea now, they will always stay with me. "This experience is thanks to him." Yet Fabregas has spent a large part of his career in opposition to Mourinho -- as he will do again at Wembley on Saturday when Chelsea hope to make up for finishing fifth in the Premier League with a first FA Cup win since 2012. The early years of Fabregas's stint at Arsenal coincided with Mourinho's arrival as manager of Chelsea, while he was also part of a Barcelona side that was vying for Spanish supremacy with Mourinho's Real Madrid. "We have our history between us," Fabregas said. "I played for Arsenal and him at Chelsea. Barcelona with him Real Madrid. We were confronting each other, but then we humbled ourselves and started a good relationship. "This is very nice but hopefully it will not be his day (on Saturday) and Chelsea can win." Apart from Fabregas, several other players from the 2014-15 title-winning team including Gary Cahill, Willian and Eden Hazard will be involved on Saturday. While they will all be familiar with Mourinho's methods, Fabregas knows their old manager will conjure something new for a one-off game that means so much to both teams. "In the last two years we played many games against them and he has changed the system many times," Fabregas said. "I am sure he will change something again on Saturday. You can expect that. We just need to prepare our game and focus on ourselves. We don't need to be thinking too much about what they are going to do and we have to do what we do." United finished runners-up in the Premier League and are favourites against a Chelsea side who ended the league season with a 3-0 defeat by Newcastle United. Fabregas said last season's final when Chelsea lost to Arsenal after winning the Premier League title showed why the Wembley showpiece is so hard to call. "Anything can happen really," he said. "Last year everyone was saying Chelsea will win it and we played one of our worst games of last season. Mourinho prepares finals very well and I am sure Antonio (Conte) will do the same."

'I owe a debt of gratitude to Jose Mourinho': Chelsea's Cesc Fabregas

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.

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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>
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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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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>
— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/985561267329957888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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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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— Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/985563570963386369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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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:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en-gb">
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

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