I wouldn't say favourites, especially as we haven't finished and I expect us to bring in one/two more with one being a top notch signing. City have added real quality already with Fernandinho and Navas isn't too shabby and apparently they are really close to signing Isco too.
Liga BBVA @Todo__LigaBBVA 32m Thiago Alcántara será jugador del Manchester United en las próximas horas In proper language, to be announced in next few hours to United.
Hate is a strong word, you will not find anyone that has true love for this club using the word hate for a player. I would certainly hope not anyway. Mikel has been a great servant to this club, but like a lot of things in life, you move on.
My worry in all this is that Jose/the board think they will pull a master plan by not buying anyone if Mikel is sold and slot Essien straight in there. Essien is a million miles away from the player he used to be, couldn't be further in fact. Essien could be a viable option as back-up RB to Azpi but nothing more IMO. In his last spell with us before leaving for Madrid his passing had become so poor I actually thought he was trying to throw games.
I don't know what to think of this guy really, he looks awesome one game and then looks like he has both laces tied together in another. He's a big old unit, seemed like he was dragging his ass off when he was subbed last night.
His agent and management will be working on the best deal possible, they don't want to scupper anything by him just saying "I'm off to Madrid" while negotiations go on he will be told to pour water on things and speak carefully on his future until all the I's are dotted and T's are crossed.