Rant Cast

#978 | Ed and Adam suffer through the long wait for United men to play again. In the meantime they enjoy United Women’s 5–0 aggregate win over Atlético Madrid to reach the Women’s Champions League quarterfinals. It’s been a strong performance from the team so far this season despite the often critical reception to manager Marc Skinner. There’s a deep-dive on United’s strategy behind revamping midfield in the summer - Anderson, Wharton, Baleba, Tonali … somebody else? That group will include Kobbie Mainoo, with reports this week that negotiations over a new contract are underway now that he is back in the first team under Michael Carrick. The under-18s beat Oxford in the Youth Cup and there’s even more hype around 15-year-old JJ Gabriel. Finally a preview of Everton away at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium. Everton have enjoyed a solid season under David Moyes. How will Carrick approach this one after West Ham’s solid defensive performance last time out? Is it time for Benjamin Šeško to start? 00:00 Int

#977 | Michael Carrick’s audition continues. With four wins from five, including victories over Arsenal and City, Ed, Dharnish and Daniel break down what we’ve actually learned about Carrick’s “game model” so far. Is this a sustainable tactical evolution or a short-term bounce? And how should United approach the next run of fixtures, starting with Everton? The discussion covers why West Ham’s low block caused problems; the emergence of a clear tactical identity under Carrick; increased player proximity, rotations and front-foot football; the midfield rebuild that’s clearly coming in the summer; and whether Carrick should already be the frontrunner for the permanent job There’s optimism. There are caveats. And there’s still the small matter of breaking down stubborn, compact sides. Momentum matters, but so does long-term planning. 00:00 Introduction and weekend football  02:00 West Ham analysis 08:45 What is Carrick’s “game model”? 16:10 Defensive evolution 19:00 Everton preview 22:00 Momentum or rea

#976 | A listener mailbag episode with Wayne and Ed, recorded during a gap in the men's fixture list (though United Women notched a seventh straight win). Wayne's been deep in writing a book on an under-explored era of United history, with fascinating cross-era player comparisons. Listener questions drive wide-ranging discussion: the ongoing burden of Glazer debt and whether Ratcliffe's involvement changes anything meaningful; the stadium regeneration plan; and pointed criticism of Ratcliffe's public comments, staff cuts, ticket price hikes, and chaotic decision-making - even as the org chart and finances have arguably improved. On football: the Wilcox-Amorim dynamic and where "oversight" crosses into interference; whether Michael Carrick’s audition is going well; and why Ole's tenure deserves more respect than it gets. On the squad: Bruno Fernandes is irreplaceable, midfield needs a serious rebuild if Casemiro and Ugarte leave, the striker situation remains an area for more depth, and youth prospects o

#975 | Ed and Dharnish discuss United's 1-1 draw with West Ham. It’s the first draw of the Michael Carrick era - second act - and Nuno’s low-block caused plenty of challenges. Why were United so flat? Was it tiredness after a second game in three days or just too many players off their game? There’s plenty of talk about Casemiro’s role and how United might replace him, another strong Kobbie Mainoo performance, and an outstanding goal from substitute Benjamin Sesko. Could the Slovenian have started this one given West Ham’s tactics? 00:00 Introduction  00:57 March Breakdown 03:50 Carrick's Strategy 09:55 Defensive Concerns 16:47 Casemiro's Role 22:46 Analyzing Player Performances 24:48 Transfer Market 29:34 Match Against Everton 37:42 Concluding Thoughts  If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded episodes are ad-free. NQAT is available on all podcast apps and in video on

#974 | United put in a dominant and convincing 2-0 win over Spurs. How much of that was down to Cristian Romero's red card and how much United’s quality? Ed and Dan dig into it. There’s plenty of chat around Kobbie Mainoo’s growing influence in midfield, how the Casemiro-Mainoo-Bruno balance is clicking, and Lisandro Martinez’s influence at centre-back. Plus, Bruno's evolving role.  There’s a nod to United Women’s good form and then a look ahead to West Ham away on Tuesday night. 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Romero Red Card  03:34 Mainoo's Development 08:51 Carrick's Management Style 15:14 Arsenal Title Challenge 24:07 Amorim's Legacy 33:26 West Ham Preview If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded episodes are ad-free. NQAT is available on all podcast apps and in video on YouTube. Hit that subscribe button, leave a rating and write a review on Apple or Spotify. Learn more

#973 | Ed and Jamie dive into United's quiet transfer window, what it means for the summer budget and the inevitable trade-offs between long-term planning and short-term risks. There's a discussion about the club's commercial performance, where new revenue might come from and the curious case of Avram Glazer bidding for an IPL franchise. 00:00 Introduction 01:53 Why United Held Fire in January 09:19 Summer Transfer Budget  12:42 Academy Value  18:51 Commercial & Sponsorship Gaps 21:41 Fan Experience 28:56 Financial Sustainability 33:13 Media Strategy & Glazer IPL Bid If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded episodes are ad-free. NQAT is available on all podcast apps and in video on YouTube. Hit that subscribe button, leave a rating and write a review on Apple or Spotify. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

#972 | Ed and Adam discuss United’s decision not to reinforce the squad in the winter transfer window. Sensible long-term financial planning or one injury away from disaster? Perhaps both, with United in a great position to qualify for the Champions League next season and deeply reliant on Casemiro’s revival in central midfield. There’s a celebration of United’s revival under Michael Carrick. Will it continue this weekend against a Spurs side desperately out-of-form and unhappy with manager Thomas Frank. There are reports of concerns about the club’s commercial underperformance - at least relative to rivals who have overtaken United. What do the Glazers expect?  Finally, it’s the anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster. Ed and Adam pay respects. 00:00 Introduction 04:11 Transfer Window Review 08:46 Squad Depth 10:39 Champions League Race 21:01 Commercial Performance 27:21 Munich Air Disaster Anniversary 30:23 Tottenham Preview If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly e

#971 | Ed, Dharnish, and Daniel look back on United's recent 3-2 victory over Fulham - with a focus on the tactical decisions and performance. Key topics include pressing and out-of-possession challenges, the proactive and vertical play under 'Carrick Ball,' midfield balance, and the crucial contributions from Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro. The conversation also looks at Matteus Cunha’s role and how the club might be thinking about midfield next summer. 00:00 Introduction - Three Wins on the Bounce 01:39 United's Pressing & Out of Possession Issues 05:38 Carrick-Ball - Verticality & Proactiveness 14:50 Manuel Ugarte Problem 17:13 Bruno Fernandes & Summer Midfield Plans 19:53 Lisandro Martinez Masterclass 27:15 Cunha's Free Role & Front Three Fluidity If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded episodes are ad-free. NQAT is available on all podcast apps and in video on YouT

#970 |  Ed and Dan dissect United’s late victory over Fulham at Old Trafford. What an impact Michael Carrick has had in his three games in charge! From key tactical shifts, to a new attacking intent, and the squad's spirt - it’s been a good couple of weeks.  On the pitch, there was another outstanding performance from Casimiro and some fine goals as well. United are in a very good position to make European competition next season. Which one? We’ll find out over the next 14 games.  Off the pitch, another protest against the owners but the options for change are very limited. Finally, United face Spurs next week. Another chance for revenge for Bilbao. 00:00 Introduction 02:41 Casemiro's Resurgence 04:21 Midfield Needs 05:58 Penalty Decisions 13:28 Champions League Race 22:02 Sesko's Performance 33:51 Glazer Protests If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded episodes are ad-

#969 | Ed and Wayne preview the upcoming United vs. Fulham match, which will present a different challenge to recent victories over Arsenal and City. There’s a brief review of United’s (lack of) transfer market activity. There may be outgoings although even that seems unlikely this winter. There’s changes in the coaching ranks amid the age-group teams. And Collette Roche has a new job as the head of the new stadium project. 00:00 Introduction 01:45 Transfer Window Discussion 10:45 Under-21 Coaching Changes 15:20 Stadium Development & Ownership 27:10 Supporter Protests 38:33 Fulham Match Preview 51:29 Carrick's Tactical Challenge 61:00 Close If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded episodes are ad-free. NQAT is available on all podcast apps and in video on YouTube. Hit that subscribe button, leave a rating and write a review on Apple or Spotify. Learn more about your

#968 | Ed, Daniel, and Dharnish analyse United's thrilling 3-2 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates. They discuss key tactical elements, including the pivotal roles of Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez in breaking Arsenal's lines with their passing, and the effective nullification of Arsenal's attacking threat. There’s plenty of chat about United's combination play in tight spaces and the tactical adjustments under Michael Carrick. The episode also touches on Arsenal's struggles to find creative solutions and reflects on the broader implications for their title challenge. Looking ahead, the hosts consider United's tactical approach for upcoming matches against Fulham and Tottenham. We back, baby. The fuckin’ biiiiiigest. 00:00 Introduction 03:24 McGuire & Martinez: Line-Breaking Passes 08:55 Small Space Combinations & Rondos 14:07 Defensive Organization & Out of Possession 18:15 Arsenal's Limitations & Tactical Issues 21:51 Looking Ahead: Fulham & Spurs If you are interested in supporting the sho

#967 | Ed and Dan celebrate United’s thrilling 3-2 victory at Arsenal. Michael Carrick, football genius? Bryan Mbeumo, football genius. Mattheus Cunha, football genius. Patrick Dorgu, football genius. Bloody hell. United scored three worldie goals. Arsenal hacked a couple in. This was a performance that could salvage a season. 00:00 Introduction 04:23 Tactical Insights and Strategies 11:32 Arsenal's Midfield  17:54 Managerial Changes and Future Prospects 28:43 Set Pieces 30:21 Player Performances  32:23 VAR Decisions and Controversies 33:41 Managerial Tactics  36:15 Upcoming Fixtures  42:33 Fan Reactions and Internet Culture 50:29 Concluding Thoughts  If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded episodes are ad-free. NQAT is available on all podcast apps and in video on YouTube. Hit that subscribe button, leave a rating and write a review on Apple or Spotify. Learn more

#966 | Ed and Jamie discuss the latest Deloitte Money League rankings that see United in eighth place overall and fourth in England. They explore the financial implications of the Glazer family's ownership, the impact of missing out on Champions League money, and comparisons with other top European clubs. The episode also touches on Casemiro’s exit, along with potential other departures, and how this could affect United's wage bill and financial strategy. Additionally, the discussion includes insights on the Women's Deloitte Money League and the evolving business models in women's football. 00:00 Introduction 00:50 Deloitte Money League - Men's Game 08:12 Premier League Dominance 16:56 Women's Football Money League 18:44 Broadcasting & Paywalls 23:49 Casemiro Departure 29:04 Wage Strategy & Squad Reset 35:24 Transfer Window & Future Plans If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporte

#965 | Ed and Tom bask in the continued glow of United's victory over City last weekend. It's a win that has lifted the mood around the whole club. There's a preview of the upcoming trip to Arsenal. What does Michael Carrick have in store for a challenging trip to the capital? Also: transfer market discussions, with several younger players heading out on loan, but will there be any incomings to bolster midfield? United Women beat Arsenal in the League Cup to reach another cup final. It's another big moment for the much criticised Marc Skinner. Finally, what good is former players' punditry for the club? Butt, Scholes and Keane have plenty to say, but is there anything positive on the horizon? 00:00 Introduction 03:47 Tactical Analysis 06:52 Top Four Hopes 14:40 Stick to Football Drama 20:23 United Women's League Cup Final 30:44 Transfer Window Discussion 42:31 Arsenal Preview If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page o

#964 | Ed and Dharnish analyse United's impressive 2-0 victory over City, marking Michael Carrick's first game in charge. The discussion highlights the tactical brilliance that led to the win, including the smart counter-attacking setup and notable performances from players like Bruno Fernandes, Bryan Mbeumo, Harry Maguire, and Casemiro. The episode also touches on the tactical changes Carrick made in just three training sessions. They explore the strategic depth of 'Carrick Ball,' with a focus on setup, formation, and key player roles in nullifying City's strengths. Looking ahead, the episode considers the challenges United may face in maintaining this momentum, particularly in their upcoming game against Arsenal and the necessity of breaking down lower-block teams. Additionally, the show reflects on Carrick's potential impact and the broader implications for United's season. 00:00 Welcome to Carrick-ball 00:27 Match Reaction 02:51 Formation & Tactical Setup 05:58 Defensive Shape & Out of Possession 0

#963 | Dominic and Ed discuss United's sensational 2-0 victory over Manchester City. Led by Michael Carrick, United setup in a smart counter-attacking style. There were impressive performances from key players - Bruno Fernandes, Bryan Mbeumo, Harry Maguire and Casemiro in particular. It was an emotional win after another chaotic season. In a few short days Carrick has rejuvenated team morale - and that of the fans too. They'll be dancing in the streets of Salford, tonight! There are challenges ahead though, such as the upcoming game against Arsenal - and Carrick still has to overcome squad depth issues, particularly in midfield. That’s for next week, though. Today was a fantastic victory. 00:00 Intro & Derby Reaction 03:41 Tactical Breakdown & Player Performances 09:14 Carrick's Impact & Management Style 21:07 Punditry & Media Discussion 27:49 Looking Ahead & Season Outlook 34:32 Key Goals & Attacking Play 39:07 Squad Depth & Transfer Talk If you are interested in supporting the show and accessin

#962 | Ed and Dan discuss Michael Carrick taking over as Manchester United's interim Head Coach following Darren Fletcher’s short spell in charge. What is Carrick's potential tactical approach given the current squad - and where might he be limited? There’s a dive into Carrick's history at Middlesbrough and plenty of speculation about potential outcomes for the rest of the season. The episode also touches on the coaching staff changes, including the controversial addition of Jonathan Woodgate, and the challenges Carrick faces in securing European football for United. 00:00 Introduction 01:59 Carrick's Appointment 07:30 Tactical Setup & Squad Balance 12:36 Player Roles 19:15 Alternative Manager Options 24:31 Transfer Window  32:56 Jonathan Woodgate If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded episodes are ad-free. NQAT is available on all podcast apps and in video on YouTub

#961 | United were knocked out of the cup by Brighton at Old Trafford. It's going to be a long few months from here. Having been dumped out of the League Cup by Grimsby earlier in the season, and with no European football this season, United will play just 40 games this season. It's the fewest for 111 years. Perhaps that's a mercy. Ed and Dan discuss defeat to Brighton, try to put it in some context and hope that things will get better with an interim managerial appointment. 00:00 Introduction: United 1-2 Brighton 09:02 Squad Quality & Player Assessment 16:19 Interim Manager Dilemma 17:19 Cycle of Failure at United 22:56 Transfer Strategy, Midfield Needs 27:38 Leadership's Crap Decision Making 45:28 Team Selection for the Derby If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded episodes are ad-free. NQAT is available on all podcast apps and in video on YouTube. Hit that subscribe

#960 | Ed and Dharnish break down United's 2-2 draw against Burnley. The discussion focuses on United's tactical adjustments under interim manager Darren Fletcher, highlighting the team's improved attacking play and aggressive approach. There’s a discussion about what Fletcher brings, what it could look like under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer or Michael Carrick, and where the squad still has weaknesses.  It was better against Burnley, even if the result didn’t quite reflect the performance. 00:00 Introduction 01:45 Burnley Match Analysis 04:56 Tactical Changes & Formation 07:02 Midfield Balance Discussion 10:37 Second Half Adjustments 18:34 Solskjaer's Potential Return 24:09 Carrick vs Solskjaer Debate 31:31 Looking Ahead to Brighton If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded episodes are ad-free. NQAT is available on all podcast apps and in video on YouTube. Hit that subscribe b

#959 | Ed and Wayne review the 2-2 draw between Manchester United and Burnley. Wayne discusses how he's coping with the busy week of changes at United, expressing his mixed feelings about managerial switches, particularly with rumors around Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s potential return. The conversation moves to Gary Neville's polarising commentary and the potential media influence on the club and its fanbase. There’s chat about Benjamin Sesko's two goals and multiple chances and the unexpected stand-out moments from young Shea Lacey. Finally, a reflection on Darren Fletcher's temporary management, future managerial appointments, and some optimism for the team’s potential under new guidance. 00:00 Introduction 03:13 Match Analysis 13:19 Squad Assessment 17:07 Fletcher's Impact 33:51 Lacey's Breakthrough Moment 44:06 Manchester United DNA If you are interested in supporting the show and accessing a weekly exclusive bonus episode, check out our Patreon page or subscribe on Apple Podcasts. Supporter funded e