Photo: Jose Mourinho and Ed Woodward in conversation after Real Madrid win

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho and executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward were spotted deep in conversation following the club’s win over Real Madrid.

The Portuguese manager lead his side to a narrow 2-1 win over a weakened version of the Spanish giant’s usual first team side.

Nonetheless the win was a welcomed alternative to the 4-1 battering United suffered to Liverpool in their last pre-season friendly.

The win also marks the end of the club’s tour of the United States of America and they’re now just one friendly away from their Premier League opener.

The Red Devils will travel to Germany to play against Bayern Munich before facing off against Leicester City for their first competitive match of the season.

Ed Woodward and Jose Mourinho talking after Man United’s win in Miami. Lots to discuss? pic.twitter.com/hwoYWwwmHX

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 1, 2018

Much has been made of Woodward’s whereabouts of late with their being rumours that a signing is on his way to Old Trafford soon.

Manchester United have gone pretty quiet since signing Lee Grant and have only made one major signing all summer in Fred.

Jose has publicly discussed his desire to sign two players before the transfer window slams shut but did admit he’d probably only get one.

Fans are now waiting rather impatiently to find out who that one may be and what position that signing will potentially address.

Jose Mourinho confirms three Man United stars returning early from holiday

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has revealed Romelu Lukaku, Marcus Rashford and Phil Jones will return early from their respective holidays.

The three stars had been involved with their countries at the World Cup at the semi-final stages and even third placed play off.

With United desperately shorthanded and in real need of some first team players to help them avoid a slow start to their Premier League campaign, Lukaku, Rashford and Jones have shown their dedication.

There’s no doubt Mourinho will be extremely pleased with all three and there’s certainly concerns over what it means for the other players who haven’t agreed to do the same.

The likes of Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Ashley Young haven’t officially offered to do the same so far and that may put them in the manager’s bad books.

The Portuguese boss has been complaining all summer long how he doesn’t have all his players for pre-season but he may get a part of his wish to come true.

Jose says Lukaku has agreed to come back 3 days early from his holiday to help the squad. Rashford and Jones are doing the same.

— Paul Hirst (@hirstclass) August 1, 2018

Romelu will definitely be a crucial part of whatever plans the former Real Madrid manager has for the season whilst Marcus and Phil will offer important cover.

Hopefully the early return won’t affect either of these players’ long term fitness or mental burnout in a crucial season for Manchester United.

Man United fans react to Mata's performance vs Madrid

Manchester United fans were definitely happy with Juan Mata following his inspiring performance vs Real Madrid in the conclusion of the pre-season tour.

Jose Mourinho’s men have been in the United States of America all summer and now only have one fixture remaining before their season opener vs Leicester City.

United will take on Bayern Munich in their final preparation for the new Premier League campaign that will certainly prove itself to be a testing one.

Mourinho’s men haven’t had the best pre-season but it’s fair to say the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Andreas Pereira and Mata have done well.

The Portuguese manager may even be tempted to consider playing all three in the same starting XI against Leicester.

Mata and Alexis have started to develop great understanding on the pitch.

— The United Link (@TheUnitedLink) August 1, 2018

Mata & Sanchez looking sharp #mufc .

— SCHOLES (@iamscholes) August 1, 2018

It’s genuinely Darmian, Mata and Alexis FC

— Big Barda (@NickiiDupre) August 1, 2018

Have to say what a good goal from United. The link up play between Mata & Sanchez has been fantastic on the tour & it’s a very good finish from Herrera #MUFC

— Everything Man Utd (@everything_utd) August 1, 2018

Juan Mata oozes class. On the pitch, and off it.

— CharlieIsARed (@CharlieisaRed) August 1, 2018

Mata and Sanchez link up play

— Abdul (@kadir_yahaya26) August 1, 2018

The Spaniard will need to be in top form if the Red Devils want to have any hope of stealing the crown from fierce rivals Manchester City.

Juan has proven plenty of times that what he offers is different to what his teammates offer the first team.

Against Madrid that talent was on show with many supporters enjoying his intelligence and link up play with his teammates.

Mata is expected to start the season for Manchester United but perhaps the return of some other stars will see him shunned out of the starting XI.

Jose Mourinho explains why he's happy with Man United's win over Real Madrid

Jose Mourinho made sure to recognise his players after they ‘gave everything’ to defeat Real Madrid in the International Champions Cup on Wednesday morning.

Alexis Sanchez and Ander Herrera both netted in the first half to guide Manchester United to their first win of pre-season in normal time, with Karim Benzema’s 45th-minute goal proving to be just a consolation.

Man United had to defend valiantly throughout the whole of the second half as Real took control in search of an equaliser, and managed to hold on to a 2-1 win against the European champions.

Following full-time in Miami, Mourinho explained that he didn’t note anything specific in terms of tactics and his players proved him wrong by holding on for the win.

Speaking to the media, the United boss revealed: “I didn’t learn anything tactically. I know my players gave everything. I thought we wouldn’t resist in the end but they gave everything.”

It was certainly a gritty performance to be proud of by a strengthened United side as David de Gea returned and £52m signing Fred made his first start for the club at the Hard Rock Stadium.

Mourinho will be hoping his players can continue their preparations for next week’s Premier League opener against Leicester City at the Allianz Arena on Sunday where Bayern Munich await.

Why next season will be different for Alexis Sanchez

It’s only taken Alexis Sanchez’ four pre-season performances for Manchester United supporters to have confidence in him returning to his sparkling best this season.

Alexis has been a standout performer on the tour of the United States, scoring twice whilst playing the role as sole striker until Romelu Lukaku returns from his holiday.

It’s obviously inevitable that the 29-year-old will get pushed out to the wing once Lukaku is back fit and firing after his impressive World Cup exploits this summer, but he’s more than capable to kick on and maintain the exciting form currently on show.

This summer has been Alexis’ first break after a season for nearly a decade, and it’s certainly shown as he’s looked like the energetic, gritty type of forward Jose Mourinho loves to have in his teams since returning.

After joining from Arsenal midway through the 2017-18 campaign, the Chile international struggled to get a grip of Mourinho’s strict demands and could only return two goals and three assists in 12 Premier League games.

With Man United set to be without a cluster of key names when they kick off their league campaign against Leicester City at Old Trafford next Friday, Alexis will need to step up and make himself counted to help Mourinho’s side avoid a slow start to what promises to be an intriguing title race.

Lukaku’s 27-goal return in his debut season at Old Trafford was mightily impressive, but he was the only player who was consistently providing goals and that must change this term if United are to improve and reach the level of Manchester City.

Alexis’ eye for goal, footwork and dribbling ability is frightening when he’s at his best and he’s looked like the player Mourinho signed from Arsenal during pre-season, so that player plus Lukaku and an in-form Juan Mata, Marcus Rashford or Jesse Lingard should be a recipe for success.

Anthony Martial is on his way out of the club after Alexis took his place in the left wing pecking order in January, so he needs to start firing to prove that the risk of losing an extremely promising young talent could be worth it.

And as far as what we’ve seen from the Chilean so far, there’s no reason not to be excited for the new campaign.

Jose Mourinho: I know which players I can count on this season

Jose Mourinho has revealed that he knows the Manchester United players he can rely on throughout the 2018-19 season as the action is getting underway all over again in just nine days’ time.

Man United have endured a troublesome pre-season tour of the United States, with many key stars including Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard and Romelu Lukaku all absent for the whole duration due to their successful exploits at the 2018 World Cup this summer in Russia.

One major talking point of the pre-season preparations has been wantaway forward Anthony Martial‘s decision to leave the training camp and fly to Paris to be with his partner Melanie Da Cruz for the birth of their first child together.

He hasn’t returned and Mourinho admitted following the 2-1 win over Real Madrid on Wednesday that he ‘doesn’t know’ when the 22-year-old will rejoin the squad back in Manchester, leading to comments about players he can count on.

Talking to the media in Miami following victory over the European champions, Mourinho honestly stated:”I know the players I can count on. Give everything for prestige of the club. Phenomenal outside the club. Lots of commercial, meet and greet, foundation.

“With the fantastic spirit we have in the majority of the players, I repeat: in the majority of the players, we have a fantastic spirit.”

Mourinho has used the friendlies to give youth a chance to train and play with the first team more than anything and United won just two of five matches across the pond.

Phil Jones, Victor Lindelof, Marcus Rashford and Romelu Lukaku have all cut their holidays three days short and will be back in time to bolster Mourinho’s squad for the Premier League opener against Leicester City next Friday.

Judging by his most recent comments though, there could very well be trouble in the water between the United boss and Martial so don’t expect the Frenchman to be at the club come the end of the transfer window.

Dennis Irwin delighted with this Man United star's performance against Real Madrid

Manchester United legend Dennis Irwin has heaped praise on Alexis Sanchez after another tremendous performance on the pre-season tour of the United States.

Alexis scored the opener and provided a clever assist for the second on top of forming an exciting partnership with Juan Mata up front as Man United beat European champions Real Madrid 2-1 in Miami, Florida.

The victory was United’s first of pre-season in normal time but regardless of results, Alexis has looked like a new signing in the friendlies he’s featured in after missing the opener against Club America due to visa issues.

Former United defender Irwin has been working as a pundit with MUTV for their coverage of the pre-season preparations across the pond and had lots of positive things to say about Alexis after full-time at the Hard Rock Stadium.

“Alexis was excellent. We held firm and defended really well in the second half,” Irwin said. “Whenever Alexis got hold of the ball, he did brilliantly to hang on to possession which was important for us. It was good to see him doing so well.”

The 29-year-old struggled to make an impact last season after arriving from Arsenal in the January transfer window, but after having his first summer of rest in nearly a decade he looks as sharp as ever before.

In order to progress in the 2018-19 campaign, United will need goals from elsewhere rather than solely Romelu Lukaku and Alexis could prove to be one of the highest contributors not just at the club, but in the Premier League if he can continue his form.

Jose Mourinho breaks silence on Anthony Martial's situation at Man United

Jose Mourinho has admitted that he ‘doesn’t know’ when Anthony Martial will link back up with the Manchester United squad for pre-season training.

Martial travelled with Man United to the United States for Tour 2018 but featured in just two matches before flying to Paris to be with his partner Melanie Da Cruz as she gave birth to their first child together.

The 22-year-old is thought to be keen on departing Old Trafford this summer due to his broken down relationship with Jose Mourinho, but seemed to be in good spirits while taking part in preparations for the 2018-19 season.

United concluded the pre-season tour stateside with a 2-1 win over European champions Real Madrid on Wednesday morning and are now due to fly back to Manchester for the final leg of pre-season.

Speaking to the press after the match in Miami, Mourinho admitted he isn’t sure when, or if, Martial will rejoin the squad when they’re back in England which has worried a large amount of the fan base.

Martial is a fan favourite at Old Trafford but seems dead-set on leaving United for a new challenge, with Premier League rivals Chelsea and Bayern Munich his largest suitors.

Due to the amount of pre-season action the France international has missed, it’s unlikely that he’ll feature in the final friendly against Bayern at the Allianz Arena on Sunday and the campaign curtain-raiser against Leicester City next Friday.

Man United fans react to Sanchez's performance vs Madrid

Manchester United fans were more than pleased with Alexis Sanchez’s performance vs Real Madrid in the final friendly in the United States of America.

Jose Mourinho’s men have had a frustrating pre-season tour so far but what matters most is the first Premier League fixture vs Leicester City.

The Chilean though has had an outstanding summer and the hopes are he can carry that form into the season to help United potentially win the league.

Sanchez has mainly played as a striker since Mourinho has been without several first team options such as Romelu Lukaku, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford.

It’s fair to say the former Barcelona man has done enough to give his teammates a run for their money or at least that’s what supporters think.

Feeling very confident that Alexis Sánchez is going to show his best for Manchester United this season. Looks sharp and fit. This pre-season has done him well. Big things to come.

— Liam Canning (@LiamPaulCanning) August 1, 2018

I have a feeling Alexis Sanchez is going to be an absolute monster this season. This is the first summer in 5 years Alexis Sanchez has not played in an international tournament, fully rested this summer.

— Red Devil Bible (@RedDevilBible) August 1, 2018

Brilliant from Utd, Sanchez really looks like he’s benefitting from a pre season off.

— Pilib De Brún (Phil Brown) (@Malachians) August 1, 2018

Has the summer off & comes back with a killer cut. Yeah Sanchez is tearing shit up this season.

— United Religion (@Unitedology) August 1, 2018

Sanchez will light up the season.

I'm excited

— kenna (@kennagq) August 1, 2018

Who needs new signings when Alexis Sanchez is one already? Huge season ahead. Nice cutback from Darmian.

— Anna_MUFC (@mufc_anna) August 1, 2018

Alexis will likely return to the left-wing position once Lukaku joins up with the squad after his World Cup exploits for Belgium.

The striker is enjoying a thoroughly deserved holiday but Jose couldn’t want him back sooner than when he’s already expected to return.

Hopefully Sanchez can continue his good form when he’s shifted back out wide to form a solid attacking unit with none other than Romelu.

Player ratings: New signing impresses, Sanchez dazzles once again

David de Gea 6 – A very quiet first run-out for the Spaniard since the World Cup. Didn’t need to do much aside from gather a couple of crosses and long range drives.

Matteo Darmian 7 – Produced a commanding display in the right wing-back role, exhibiting good strength and energy throughout. Made an excellent run in the build-up to Alexis Sanchez’s goal.

Timothy Fosu-Mensah 6 – Made his physical presence in the box felt on more than one occasion but couldn’t cope with new signing Vinicius Jr out wide.

Eric Bailly 6 – This was a game which revealed the two sides to Bailly: both the swashbuckling, all-encompassing defensive powerhouse in the box and the defender clearly lacking in positional intelligence, as seen for Real Madrid’s goal.

Scott McTominay 5 – Jose Mourinho put the Scot on the left hand side of a back three and, put simply, it didn’t work. Positioning was way off when Real Madrid first broke down his side and then again for Karim Benzema’s goal. You could tell he isn’t a central defender.

Luke Shaw 6 – Once again played with plenty of heart and verve on the left hand side, maintaining his position reasonably well, but his lack of precision going forward is frustrating.

Ander Herrera 7 – His best performance of the tour by some distance. Hassled opposition midfielders all evening, won the ball in key areas, and scored an excellent half-volley from outside the box.

Andreas Pereira 5 – Failed to have the same influence in a deeper midfield role, often struggling to cope with the speed of Madrid’s play down the middle. Doesn’t seem suited as a defensive midfielder – a position he has never played in.

Fred 7 – A very promising first run out in a red shirt from the Brazilian. Displayed good close control under pressure, beating Madrid’s press, and moved the ball up the pitch comfortably. An accomplished display on the ball.

Juan Mata 7 – The Spaniard was as eloquent as usual on the ball, linking up well with Sanchez down the middle and keeping attacks ticking over – most notably in the build-up to United’s second goal.

Alexis Sanchez 7 – You can tell Sanchez isn’t messing around this season. The forward gave another incisive, tenacious, accomplished attacking display in the United States, cooly sliding home the opener and showing great dexterity with a headed assist for Herrera. Looks like a new player following a much-needed holiday.

Substitutes

Axel Tuanzebe

Demetri Mitchell

James Garner

Man United fans react to Fred's performance vs Madrid

Manchester United fans were undoubtedly excited by Fred’s performance vs Real Madrid after he impressed in his first start for the club.

The Brazilian had come off the bench when Jose Mourinho’s men were battered 4-1 by Liverpool but it wasn’t enough time to truly see him in action.

It’s fair to say he did enough against Madrid in the United States of America to make an impact already on United’s fan base.

The midfielder started in Mourinho’s return to the 3-5-2 formation that he only occasionally uses with the club and he showed his quality.

Fred showed he’s not just a good passer but also a good dribbler, tenacious tackler and a good box to box midfielder too.

FRED is Fantastic! A Carrick type of player who always looks forward and spots a Pass!

— SCHOLES (@iamscholes) August 1, 2018

Fred looks class in midfield, going to be so exciting seeing him this season. #mufc

— Simply Utd (@SimplyUtd) August 1, 2018

Fred already looks like he's going to be a real asset. Fast, good on the ball and tenacious#MUFC

— Mark Goldbridge (@markgoldbridge) August 1, 2018

Fred looks busy, eye for a pass. Love him already.

— Anna_MUFC (@mufc_anna) August 1, 2018

Fred's work in midfield is brilliant. Closing down has being top notch

— becks (@evertonbd) August 1, 2018

Alexis and Fred ballin so far this game ngl.

— James. (@mufcszn) August 1, 2018

Jose had made it clear the former Shakhtar Donetsk man is capable of doing a little bit of everything but his most impressive attribute is his ‘manipulation of the ball in tight spaces’.

Fred’s dynamism is arguable his most important trait and it’s exactly that which is expected of him once he plays alongside Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic.

Those three in midfield should be right up their with the best in the league so hopefully they can be the driving force towards a possible title challenge.

Bundesliga giants interested in signing Shaw: report

Bundesliga giants Wolfsburg are reportedly interested in signing Manchester United star Luke Shaw, emerging as shock suitors.

The Englishman has been linked with numerous clubs after claims he wasn’t happy with his situation at Old Trafford or with Jose Mourinho.

The pair were said to have had a breakdown in their relationship after the Portuguese manager publicly criticised Shaw several times last season.

The defender was linked with moves to Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea but nothing was made of it with Mourinho even opting against actively chasing a replacement.

However, the former Real Madrid boss’s plans could be completely ruined after the German side expressed interest in one of his players.

According to the Daily Mail, Wolfsburg are interested in signing Luke this summer but the player is keen on remaining at Old Trafford this season.

It’s good to see that the rumours of his wish to leave have ended and sections of the media believe what the player himself has told fans a long time ago-he doesn’t want to leave.

With less than two weeks left to the transfer window, it’s highly unlikely Mourinho will part with Shaw, especially as he’s relied on the former Southampton man all pre-season long.

Mourinho reveals the problems of young modern footballers

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has been discussing what the perfect environment for young modern players is, pointing to potential distractions as cause for concern.

The Portuguese manager cited the World Cup as the perfect situation to have a squad of players in since there is no outside interference.

The players are stuck inside a camp for around a month give or take and are solely focused on their football and performances for their respective nations.

Mourinho previously discussed how he may eventually move into international management when he’s older and he certainly sees the appeals of it.

The former Real Madrid boss had also discussed before how these circumstances allowed Paul Pogba to perform so admirably for France.

According to Manchester Evening News, Jose said to beIN SPORTS: “The context is completely different because the World Cup takes one month and for a month the players are in a closed camp, isolated from the external world, isolated from commercial compromises and isolated from every possible influence.

“They are there, they are just for that and the dimensions of the matches is getting bigger and bigger and bigger. They start with the group phase and they feel they are going to the knockout.

“When they have the feeling they can win the World Cup, they close each other. It’s a strong shell, a strong group, and they just think about football so I think it’s a perfect habitat for a young player to grow and to flourish.”

There’s no doubt these things help footballers and that’s why certain players can experience an outstanding World Cup and then disappear back into mediocrity when it ends.

It’s why many people call for their clubs to not invest on a player solely based on their performances in a handful of games in these kinds of tournaments.

Leicester boss discusses Maguire to Man United transfer

Leicester City manager Claude Puel has been discussing Harry Maguire’s potential transfer to Manchester United, insisting he’s confident about holding onto his star.

The Englishman emerged as a surprise target of Jose Mourinho’s following his performances at the World Cup that garnered attention.

Maguire was said to be an alternative to United’s first choice signing Tottenham’s Toby Alderweireld who the club have been chasing for months now.

The Leicester man is thought to be a cheaper, younger and easier target to sign with the London club giving Mourinho a headache with negotiations.

Nonetheless, Puel appears pretty confident that Harry will remain with the Foxes, perhaps a new contract has been worked out after all.

According to Manchester Evening News, Claude said to Sky Sports: “I am confident about the presence of Harry for this season. He is a very good player for us.

“I was not surprised about his performance during this World Cup. We saw his progress during the second half of the season. He was great and played very well.

“It was not a surprise to see him perform well at this level in the international game.

“Of course for us he is a very good player – I wait for him with impatience because we need Harry and we need also Jamie [Vardy] because they are Leicester.”

The Red Devils need for a top tier centre-back is no secret at this point and Maguire could be using the club’s interest to get a better deal with Leicester.

The truth is the defender doesn’t actually fit the profile of what Jose was said to be searching for which is a quality, proven, leader of a player.

Harry definitely had an outstanding World Cup and looks the part but it would be a stretch to say he fits all three characteristics simultaneously.

Villa interested in deal for Tammy Abraham

According to the Birmingham Mail, Aston Villa want to sign Tammy Abraham from Chelsea on a season-long loan.

Abraham is set to leave the Blues on loan this season after a spell at Swansea last time out.

Villa currently have four strikers out injured, meaning that Steve Bruce is desperately trying to bring in some cover before their opening game of the season against Hull on Monday evening.

However, it is understood that the 20-year-old would prefer a move to another Premier League side, so Villa boss Bruce is still looking around for other suitable options, such as West Ham’s Jordan Hugill.

In his first Premier League loan spell, Abraham struggled, scoring only 5 goals in 31 appearances and was helpless as the Swans were relegated to the Championship.

He has proven himself at Championship level though as he scored 23 goals for Bristol City in the 2016/17 season.

Abraham will leave Chelsea on loan before the transfer window slams shut on the 9th of August, but where he will end up is not clear yet.

The post Villa interested in deal for Tammy Abraham appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Grant reveals what it's really like in Man United camp

Manchester United star Lee Grant has dismissed reports of there being an unhappy camp and insisted the team atmosphere has been nothing but positive.

Rumours emerged that Jose Mourinho’s attitude as well as demeanour on their pre-season has ruined the mood of the players ahead of a crucial season.

It was also said the Portuguese’s constant attacks on some of the members of the squad has had a negative effect on the United stars.

Whatever the reason it appeared as though Mourinho was losing his players and there was almost going to be a player strike of sorts.

However, Grant has cleared the air up and dismissed the reports as being completely false which is nothing new as this has been a recurring theme.

According to Manchester Evening News, Lee said to Sky Sports: “From what we’re getting from the inside it [the atmosphere around the camp] has been nothing but positive.

“He’s come in even after the Liverpool game and spoken very highly of what we’ve have given as a team and as a unit.

“The messages we are getting from the manager are positive ones and that is important for us going forward.

“His attitude and demeanour around the place is great and that is helpful for us especially when we are under-manned and we are working our hardest.

“We are well aware at this stage of the season you have got to work hard and get the minutes into the legs and that is what we are doing.”

Jose certainly doesn’t help himself with the way he’s addressed the media of late and his constant complaints haven’t gone unheard.

However, the former Real Madrid manager is known for his deflecting tactics and he could easily be doing all of this in order to take attention away from his team’s performances.

There was never more uproar than after the 4-1 battering the Red Devils took from Liverpool but rather than discuss the result, the media were distracted by Mourinho’s comments.

From Portugal: Joel Pereira discovers next loan destination

Joel Pereria looks set to join Jose Mourinho’s former club Vitoria Sebutal on loan for the 2018/19 season, according to reports from Portugal.

The Portuguese has been the club’s third choice keeper for 18 months and impressed with his penalty heroics against AC Milan.

Manchester United’s signing of veteran keeper Lee Grant earlier this month was completed in order to allow for Pereira to receive game time elsewhere.

And according to Portuguese media outlet Record, the keeper will join up with Vitoria, who Mourinho played for between 1983 and 1985.

Vitoria finished 14th in the country’s top division last season and were recommended as Pereria’s next club by Mourinho himself.

The 22-year-old’s last loan move was with Portuguese side Belenenses during the first half of Mourinho’s opening season as Old Trafford, during which he made ten appearances and impressed with a handful of solid performances between the sticks.

He is too good to be playing as a third choice keeper at any club. At his age, minutes on the pitch are more important than anything, and that is exactly what Mourinho will want to see Pereira receive at his former stomping ground over the next nine months.

Jose Mourinho drops major hint over starting XI against Leicester City

Jose Mourinho has revealed he more or less knows the starting XI which will feature against Leicester City on August 10.

The Portuguese has had to negotiate pre-season with severely limited options due to ten players being away on holiday following the World Cup, with seven of those players going right into the last week of the finals, ruling them out for the Leicester clash and indeed for most of August.

Injuries to Nemanja Matic, Diogo Dalot, alongside Antonio Valencia‘s lack of fitness and Eric Bailly’s continued niggles, have further depleted his options.

Speaking in an interview ahead of the club’s pre-season clash with Real Madrid, Mourinho noted he had a strong idea of what starting XI he would put out against Leicester.

“More or less I know. It’s not going to be very different,” he said. “We have basically the same players – the players that we bought.”

“One is a goalkeeper cover another is a 19-year-old kid. In fact, we have one new player, which is Fred, so of course our team is not going to be very different.”

It will be a truly strange starting XI we see against Leicester. It will not be the team Mourinho wants to play with throughout the season. Thankfully, though, it will not be anywhere near as bad as United’s last post-World Cup line-up for its opening game. See below.

Jesse Lingard playing wing-back. Darren Fletcher on his last legs. Tyler Blackett. Javier Hernandez playing awfully and then somehow joining Real Madrid on loan. That was a truly strange day.

And so will August 9, but the team will, all things considered, be one supporters are more familiar with. David de Gea, thanks to Spain being awful at the World Cup, will thankfully return between the sticks. Chris Smalling and Eric Bailly will start as central defenders against a Leicester side without Jamie Vardy. Valencia and Luke Shaw, despite doubts over the former’s fitness, should be the full-backs.

The midfield, by the looks of things, will have Ander Herrera at the base of midfield (although let’s not rule out Scott McTominay starting), with Fred and the impressive Andreas Pereira.

For the front three Mourinho has declared he envisaged Juan Mata, Alexis Sanchez and Anthony Martial to start against Leicester. Whether the latter will be part of the squad by then is a big doubt.

Club adamant winger is not for sale as Chelsea ponder a move

Bayer Leverkusen are not interested in selling Leon Bailey this summer, despite interest from Chelsea and Roma.

As reported by TalkSPORT, who cite reports in Italy, Leverkusen are adamant that the player will be staying put.

Bailey has been a long-term target for Chelsea, who could be in the market for a winger if either Eden Hazard or Willian leave in the not too distant future.

The Jamaican-born winger was one of the standout performers in the Bundesliga last season and is a player Chelsea have had on their radar for some time now.

Roma were also said to be interested in a deal to sign Bailey after they missed out on Malcom, who snubbed a move to Italy to join Barcelona at the last minute.

The 20-year-old is under contract until 2022 with the Bundesliga outfit and is undoubtedly going to attract more interest in the coming months or years.

The post Leverkusen not interested in selling Bailey appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Manchester United outcast closing in on Everton move: report

Marcos Rojo is edging closer to joining Everton this summer as Manchester United look to bring in another central defender before the transfer window closes, according to reports.

The Argentine, whose appearances for Man United were limited by injury last season, was told to stay in Manchester rather than join the club’s pre-season tour.

He appears to be the odd one out at Old Trafford, with the club focusing its efforts on top target Toby Alderweireld from Tottenham Hotspur.

And according to M.E.N‘s Samuel Luckhurst, Everton are closing in on completing a deal for the Argentine defender, who looks to be heading for the exit door one way or another.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have also emerged as a potential suitor for Rojo, reportedly pledging a bid of around £25m. Recent reports have suggested Everton are willing to put £30m towards signing the defender.

The latter bid seems more likely to be successful given United’s healthy working relationship with the Toffees since Ed Woodward’s arrival in 2013. Deals for Marouane Fellaini, Morgan Schneiderlin, Wayne Rooney and Romelu Lukaku have been agreed between the two clubs in recent years.

Either way, with Mourinho desperate to see a central defender arrive, this is more a matter of ‘when’ rather than ‘if’ Rojo will leave the club.

Sarri tells Chelsea outcast he features in his first-team plans

Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi has been told that he does have a place in Maurizio Sarri’s plans this season.

According to reports in France from RMC, as cited by Get French Football, Sarri has spoken to the Belgian forward about what he expects of him this season.

There had been some concern that the striker could be moved on this summer after falling out of favour at the Bridge last season.

With Antonio Conte unable to trust the striker to start games in the Premier League, he joined Borussia Dortmund on loan in the second half of the season.

Batshuayi thrived in the Bundesliga and an impressive stint with Dortmund saw him earn a place in the Belgium World Cup squad before injury cut his campaign short.

The striker is now expected to compete with Alvaro Morata for a starting place in Sarri’s side.

The former has struggled during pre-season and is coming off the back of a difficult first campaign for the Blues.

The post Sarri wants to keep Batshuayi at Chelsea appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea to miss out on key summer target despite already agreeing personal terms

Chelsea are looking increasingly likely to miss out on a deal to sign Daniele Rugani from Juventus.

According to reports from Sport Mediaset, as cited on Football Italia, Juventus are now refusing to sell the defender because they do not want to lose both Rugani and Mattia Caldara during the same window.

The latter is close to joining AC Milan as part of a swap deal that will take Leonardo Bonucci back to Juventus.

Gonzalo Higuain is also expected to arrive at the San Siro on loan as part of the deal.

Chelsea have been heavily linked with all three players, with both Rugani and Caldara earmarked as defensive signings.

Maurizio Sarri had been keen to bring the former Empoli defender to London with him.

After falling out of favour at Juventus, Rugani had agreed personal terms over a move to Stamford Bridge, but the dramatic deal involving Bonucci, Caldara and Higuain has complicated matters.

The post Chelsea to miss out on Rugani deal appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea target told to reject Maurizio Sarri's men in favour of move to Liverpool

Chelsea target Christian Pulisic is being urged to join Liverpool rather than move to Stamford Bridge if he leaves the Bundesliga in the immediate future.

Former Arsenal player turned ESPN pundit Paul Mariner, explains that the young American winger should make Anfield the next step of his career if and when he does leave Dortmund, as cited on the Liverpool Echo.

Looking at it purely and simply from the player’s viewpoint, I’d stay at Dortmund for another year. But if I was going to go, I’d go to Liverpool.

He knows Klopp, Klopp knows him, he’d be fantastic to come in and out for (Sadio) Mane and (Mohamed) Salah. I think that would be a better move.

Chelsea have been heavily linked with a move for the player, with the Blues earmarking him as a replacement for Willian, should the Brazilian be sold this summer.

Pulisic, who is believed to be valued at around £62 million, has been one of the standout performers in the Bundesliga in recent seasons and his development at Dortmund has not gone unnoticed.

Bayern Munich are also said to be keeping a close eye on his progression as they plan for life after Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery.

The post Pulisic told to join Liverpool rather than Chelsea appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Predicted Chelsea XI vs Arsenal (N)

With the new Premier League season looming, Chelsea continue their pre-season preparations with a game against London rivals Arsenal in Dublin.

Maurizio Sarri’s men have impressed during their first couple of pre-season games with a 1-0 win over Perth Glory and a penalty shootout victory against Inter.

With players returning from their World Cup holidays each day, there could be some changes from the team that played Inter.

Here is how we think Chelsea will line up against Arsenal.

The post Predicted Chelsea XI: Arsenal (N) appeared first on Read Chelsea.

From France: Barcelona star edging closer to joining Manchester United

Barcelona defender is closer to joining Manchester United than Everton or any other potential suitor, according to reports from France.

Jose Mourinho has placed emphasis on targeting Harry Maguire and Toby Alderweireld during the latter stages of the transfer window as he looks to further bolster his back line.

And Mina, who scored three goals in an excellent World Cup with Colombia, has also emerged as an alternative option for Man United.

According to French media outlet RMC Sport, Mina has attracted attention from Everton but is odds on to complete a move to Old Trafford instead, and could be signed for just €30m.

Mina is a strange target for the simple reason that he almost certainly wasn’t on the club’s radar before the World Cup. The 23-year-old was an outcast at Barcelona last season – despite only joining in January – with manager Ernesto Valverde lacking trust in his composure and execution at the back.

At the World Cup, however, it was like a new player emerged. Mina was imposing, athletic, fearless, useful in possession, a leader. Mourinho may believe that those couple of weeks in Russia, where the defender emerged as the side’s unlikely star, saw Mina grow into a defender worth pursuing.

Chelsea star fails to report for training amid talk of a move away

Real Madrid and Manchester United target Willian has reportedly failed to show up for training after returning from his post-World Cup holiday.

The Times reports that the Willian has been struggling with passport issues, but his absence has raised some eyebrows back at Stamford Bridge.

Those behind the scenes at the club are said to be concerned that Willian’s situation could mirror that of Diego Costa last summer.

The report does specify that the player has contacted the club to make them aware of his situation.

The striker failed to return to training as he pushed for a move back to Atletico Madrid after falling out of favour under Antonio Conte.

Real Madrid have been heavily linked with a move for the winger throughout the summer.

Chelsea officials now fear that the winger could be looking to push for a move away from the club.

Manchester United are also known admirers of the player and should Jose Mourinho look to raid his former side, Chelsea could move for Borussia Dortmund’s Christian Pulisic.

The post Willian fails to show for Chelsea training amid transfer talk appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Premier League side eyeing deal for Chelsea forward

Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham is the subject of interest from Premier League side Crystal Palace.

According to The Guardian, Palace are looking into the loan market and have identified Abraham as a target.

Palace are eager to sign a new striker this window after Christian Benteke failed to hit his top form last season in front of goal.

Abraham spent the last campaign on loan to Swansea in the Premier League, scoring eight times as they were relegated to the Championship.

The 20-year-old is highly rated at Chelsea but looks set for another loan move away from the club to continue his development.

He scored 26 goals for Bristol City during the 2016/17 season, in what was a breakthrough year for the forward.

The striker has also been capped twice by England at senior level, whilst also being a regular for the under-21 side.

The post Palace keen on deal for Abraham appeared first on Read Chelsea.

"To loan or not to loan"- Charly Musonda

There is no doubt that Chelsea may have the best youth facilities in the country, but yet the only notable academy graduates in the past decade have been Andreas Christensen and John Terry.

But among the most promising youth talents currently on the Blues books is Belgian winger Charly Musonda, yet his future, much like the fate of many remains up in the air following Sarri’s appointment.

Last season the 21-year-old, who had previously lit up La Liga with Real Betis whilst on loan in 2016-17 failed to light up Scotland on loan at Celtic playing just four times since joining in January 2018.

You just have to type into Youtube “Charly Musonda highlights” to see the Brussell born winger’s immense promise. It was, of course, fellow Belgian Eden Hazard who took his fellow countryman under his wing so you would expect the 21-year-old to be talented.

But with Kenedy, who in all due respects is a better overall player, loaned out to Newcastle that leaves Musonda’s future up in the air once more.

Charly Musonda is in a sort of limbo, despite training in the first team and playing in pre-season for the Blues he is still being linked with a move away.

Currently, Chelsea has at their disposal Eden Hazard, Willian, Piazon, Pedro, Hudson-Odoi and of course Musonda at their disposal in the wide positions. With Hudson-Odoi impressing last season, not to mention notching an assist for Pedro against Perth his quality is clear. So it may turn into who Chelsea see more promise in Musonda or Hudson-Odoi.

Should Chelsea opt to loan out the 21-year-old there would be no shortage of suitors, and we have already seen the likes of Loftus-Cheek impress whilst on loan in the Premier League.

Despite his talent, many clubs are reluctant to sit down and talk with Musonda due to his excessive entourage. One of the big criticisms of Musonda was he and his team chose the easy route moving to Chelsea’s youth academy in 2011 from Anderlecht, where he missed a crucial part of his training.

Yet his former educators Anderlecht may be willing to take the Youngster back on loan. Granted that Chelsea pays at least half of his excessive wages.

But what Chelsea would hate is for another “one that got away” story we have already seen with the likes of Mohammed Salah, Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne. Only time will tell if Musonda will be as good as the aforementioned names, but for the Blues sake, we all hope he is.

The post “To loan or not to loan”- Charly Musonda appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Willian offers update on Chelsea future as Barcelona and Manchester United wait in the wings

Willian has spoken out regarding his future at Chelsea, insisting he is happy in West London.

The winger has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge, with Manchester United and Barcelona said to be the keenest suitors for his services.

Yet to feature in any preseason football under new Blues boss Maurizio Sarri, the Brazilian will also be omitted from this weekend’s Community Shield clash with Manchester City.

Having played a key role in his nation’s quarter-final run at the World Cup, the 29-year-old has been enjoying some hard-earned rest.

A mammoth 55 appearances for Chelsea last season saw the forward become one of the critical components in doomed manager Antonio Conte’s machine.

With bids from United and Barcelona said to be in the region of £60 million, some have wondered whether Chelsea would choose to cash in on one of their attacking options, given his relatively advanced years.

Willian himself however has claimed he is content to stay in the capital.

Quoted in the Mirror as speaking to Globo Esporte in Brazil, the wide-man said:

I am very happy at Chelsea and I am very happy living in London.

With other rumours suggesting Eden Hazard may be nearing his own departure from the 2016-17 champions however, the club may opt to hang on to Willian for the immediate future.

The post Willian speaks out regarding Chelsea future appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Aubameyang Talks About The Data Which Compares Him Him To Ronaldo & Mbappe

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has talked about the performance data which has compared him to Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo (via The Straits Times).

Arsenal forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is a player best known for his blistering pace up front.

The former Borussia Dortmund man is clearly incredibly quick off the mark despite being 29 years of age.

He’s not alone as a striker in that respect with many of the world’s top forwards today exhibiting blistering pace.

Now, Aubameyang has been asked whether he checks up on the running statistics which are available to top professionals today.

“Speed, of course. Everybody knows about my speed. It’s all my life,” the Arsenal striker told The Straits Times.

“I like to watch videos of my matches and training and read data about my speed and distance. That’s important as it helps me improve every day.

“This year, at a training session, I did 37kmh. It’s a good score. (Kylian) Mbappe did the same at the World Cup. I’m 29 now, so it’s not bad (Mbappe is 19). I do look out for data on other players like (Mohamed) Salah and Cristiano Ronaldo.”

Speed is clearly a major part of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s game and the fact that he is still able to achieve the same levels as the top strikers on the planet at his age is impressive. Let’s hope it continues for many more years to come.

Chelsea make enquiry to land Real Madrid star

Chelsea’s search for a central midfielder has led them Liverpool and Bayern Munich target Matteo Kovacic.

The Daily Mail claims that the Blues have enquired about the Croatian midfielder.

Several clubs have been linked with moves for the midfielder, who fell out of favour at Real Madrid last season.

The player has made the Spanish giants aware of his intention to leave the club this summer as he goes in search of regular first-team football.

Maurizio Sarri is said to be a huge fan of the player and has tracked his progress since his time at the San Siro with Inter.e

Bayern Munich and Liverpool have been previously linked with moves for the player.

Chelsea are clearly keen to strengthen in the middle of the park, as they remain in talks over a deal to sign Matias Vecino from Inter.

The post Chelsea enquire over deal to sign Kovacic from Real Madrid appeared first on Read Chelsea.

West Ham line up move for Chelsea midfielder

West Ham have joined a number of Premier League clubs in pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater.

According to The Mirror, West Ham want to beef up their midfield options and have targeted Drinkwater as a possible addition to their squad.

Drinkwater has fallen out-of-favour at Chelsea, with the club happy to let him leave before the end of the transfer window.

West Ham’s Premier League rivals Southampton and Crystal Palace are also said to be keen on securing a deal for the England international.

Drinkwater sealed a £35m move to Chelsea last summer from Leicester, a year on from The Foxes’ Premier League title success.

However, the midfielder failed to make an impact at Stamford Bridge last season as he only managed five Premier League starts.

Maurizio Sarri, who was appointed as Chelsea’s head coach earlier this month, is willing to let Drinkwater leave after the arrival of Jorginho from Napoli.

The post West Ham eyeing up Drinkwater move appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Matteo Guendouzi Reveals What He Wants From His First Season At Arsenal

Pictures: Arsenal New Boy Lucas Torreira Joins Training For The First Time

Arsenal’s new summer signing Lucas Torreira has joined up with the squad for pre-season training for the first time since his transfer.

Most Arsenal fans agree that the club’s most important signing during this summer window has been Lucas Torreira from Sampdoria.

The 22-year-old midfielder impressed for Uruguay during the World Cup and went on his summer holiday shortly after completing his move to the Emirates.

Now, his break is over and Torreira has joined up with the Arsenal squad for the first time since the move.

Torreira was one of four players who returned to pre-season training today including Granit Xhaka and Nacho Monreal.

Also spotted in Arsenal training colours was new signing Stephan Lichtsteiner, Xhaka’s international teammate who has returned after his summer break.

The official Arsenal Twitter account put out this video to mark the occasion.

They're here! @LTorreira34 ✅ @LichtsteinerSte ✅ pic.twitter.com/0LAFA1poxU

— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) July 30, 2018

It’s great to see the summer signings returning to pre-season training. Lucas Torreira will be a vital player in this Arsenal team and the likes of Granit Xhaka, Nacho Monreal and Stephan Lichtsteiner will be important parts of the squad. Let’s hope they’ll be fit enough for the Premier League opener in 12 days.

Chelsea star in line for club-record contract deal amid European interest

Chelsea want to make N’Golo Kante the club’s highest earner to ward off any interest from French champions Paris Saint-Germain.

The Times reports that the Blues are ready to offer the French midfielder a mouthwatering £290,000-a-week deal in an attempt to secure his long-term future at Stamford Bridge.

A new five-year deal would see the former Leicester midfielder go way beyond the £220,000 taken home by Eden Hazard each week.

Paris Saint-Germain are said to be heavily interested in a deal following Kante’s impressive showing for his country at the World Cup in Russia.

Kylian Mbappe has joked that he has been trying to convince the player to swap London for Paris.

The Ligue 1 side may have been hoping to pounce on Chelsea’s lack of Champions League football, but the Blues appear confident that he will stay at the club beyond the summer transfer window.

The post Chelsea to make Kante the club’s highest earner amid PSG interest appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea propose mega €115m + player offer to beat Manchester United to midfielder

Chelsea are reportedly proposing an offer in the region of €115 million and Charly Musonda to sign Manchester United target Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.

According to a report from Calciomercato, rumours about the player’s future are refusing to go away, with Chelsea recently named as the favourites to sign the player.

Reports have suggested that the Serbian midfielder would prefer the idea of joining Chelsea, should he move to England.

The Lazio midfielder, is valued very highly by the Italian club, is a target for Manchester United and previously Juventus, while Real Madrid have also been touted as a possible destination in the past.

Milinkovic-Savic enjoyed a standout season for Lazio, playing a key role in their push for Champions League football.

The Serbian is a goalscoring midfielder that has drawn comparisons to a young Paul Pogba after finding the back of the net on 12 occasions last season.

The post Chelsea propose €115m offer for Sergej Milinkovic-Savic appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Mourinho 'favourite' to lose his Man United job

Oddschecker spokesperson George Elek has revealed Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is favourite to get sacked first ahead of any other Premier League manager already.

The season hasn’t even begun and it appears the Portuguese’s job is under threat after a gloomy pre-season so far.

United have been far from convincing having only won once all summer against AC Milan through penalties and were even battered 4-1 by fierce rivals Liverpool.

Mourinho’s current odds are 7/1 which means he’s more likely to lose his job first than any other Premier League manager.

Along with all the terrible performances, the Red Devils have only made one standout signing in Shakhtar Donetsk’s Fred.

According to Manchester Evening News, George said: “Mourinho has not covered himself in glory with Manchester United’s tour of the USA, with the 55-year-old claiming that it’s ‘not his squad.’

“The negativity is just one of an array of factors that Manchester United fans are not happy with – and that despondency has crept into punters’ thoughts ahead of the 18/19 season.”

Reports have recently emerged that Jose will be backed by the Old Trafford hierarchy to sign whoever he believes is needed.

It was initially believed that Manchester United were unwilling to spend until they’ve offloaded some of their own players.

Only Daley Blind has been sold by the club so far with Michael Carrick the only other player leaving the squad as he’s retired.

United were notoriously finished 19 points behind fierce rivals and champions Manchester City but have failed to do anything of note to prove they’re capable of closing that gap.

Man United's Pereira reveals his best position

Manchester United star Andreas Pereira has revealed his best position is as a number six following some confusion over where he’ll feature for the club.

The Belgian is a rather versatile player as he’s capable of playing in defensive midfield, central midfield, attacking midfield and on either flank.

Last season he was on loan with Valencia and played in numerous roles as well though he mainly featured on the wings.

However, Jose Mourinho has opted to use him as a defensive midfielder for much of the pre-season tour and it’s clearly a position Pereira is happy with.

Some supporters though believe his flair and natural attacking talent goes to waste in such a role and he’s better off being pushed further up the field.

According to the National, Andreas said: “My best position now is as a number six. Mr Mourinho put me there and he can see things that others can’t see.

“I’m happy as a six and will continue trying my best there.”

Whatever the opinions of fans or even Pereira himself, it’s clear to see that playing him there has worked out tremendously this summer.

The youngster has arguably had the best pre-season out of the whole Manchester United squad, almost forcing himself into Mourinho’s starting XI for the season.

Hopefully Andreas will continue to be given the opportunity to impress once the Premier League begins and he does have the advantage of several of his teammates being missing.

Man United's Mata previews clash against Madrid

Manchester United star Juan Mata has previewed the club’s pre-season clash with Real Madrid, highlighting how it would be a good experience for the youngsters on board.

Jose Mourinho has had his hand forced to take a host of kids with him to the club’s tour of the United States of America as he’s currently missing several first team players.

Players such as Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku have not been a part of the squad due to their exploits for their respective nations at the World Cup.

Injuries have also already taken their toll with the likes of Antonio Valencia and Nemanja Matic also out of the first team picture.

Mata has been one of the few stars who have been consistently featuring during pre-season but he’s insisted on focussing on the youngsters.

According to Manchester Evening News, Juan said to MUTV: “They [Madrid] are a great team, great squad, new manger who I know well.

“It will be a good experience for some of our young players, and the perfect end to the US tour.”

Hopefully it can be the perfect end to a tour that’s been otherwise miserable to the Red Devils’ fan base.

Mourinho’s men have failed to play convincingly all summer long and only picked up one win which came against AC Milan through penalties.

After being battered 4-1 by Liverpool, it’s fair to say Manchester United supporters are keen to quickly get this pre-season tour over with.

Pereira reveals his true thoughts on Mourinho

Manchester United star Andreas Pereira has revealed his true feelings towards Jose Mourinho and believes he’s ready to play week in and week out for the club.

Much has been made of the Belgian’s future at Old Trafford as there appears to be no real room for him in the starting XI despite his obvious quality.

Pereira has had an outstanding pre-season so far and is clearly good enough to be in the first team but there are rumours he doesn’t get along with Mourinho.

The midfielder opted against staying at United last season and fighting for his place which was said to have upset the Portuguese boss.

Scott McTominay took advantage of the situation however and kickstarted his career by filling in for the first team whenever needed.

According to the National, Andreas said: “Jose Mourinho was always in touch and sending me messages. It was nice that he kept in touch with me and showed that he had faith in me.

“I want to repay that faith. I think I can make the step now to play every week at Manchester United.”

It’s clear to see there’s no ill will between the two and hopefully it means the youngster will be a part of the squad this campaign.

Although it’s only pre-season it’s been evident that Pereira and not McTominay should be the one playing backup to the first choice midfield three of Fred, Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba.

The Scotsman hasn’t played well and could do with some minutes away on loan for the upcoming season while Andreas, Ander Herrera and Marouane Fellaini fight for a spot in the starting XI.

Has Yerry Mina just dropped a Man United move hint?

Barcelona star and Manchester United target Yerry Mina has dropped what fans believe to be a huge hint over a potential transfer.

The Colombian has recently emerged as an alternative to Harry Maguire though the Leicester City man himself was an alternative to Tottenham’s Toby Alderweireld.

Nonetheless, it was said Jose Mourinho is interested in signing him and it appears Mina may be interested in a move to Old Trafford himself.

It’s no secret the Portuguese manager is in search of a new centre-back to shore up his shaky backline that has often been saved by the world class David de Gea.

Yerry’s social media activity recently has seen United fans get excited that a move may genuinely happy though nothing official has happened yet.

Mina has started following Manchester United on Instagram and removed ‘Barca player’ off his bio?

Anything to make of it ?#MUFC pic.twitter.com/8TL97GjmMs

— Isiah Madrigal (@Realisiah1) July 29, 2018

Chelsea’s Alvaro Morata also did something similar last summer and even had his hair dyed red though things didn’t quite work out as planned.

It was believed the Spaniard was on his way to Old Trafford but it turned out Manchester United were working on a deal with Romelu Lukaku simultaneously and so pulled the plug on the former’s move.

The same could very well happen with Mina so there’s no guarantee’s he will be a Mourinho player but at least it brings excitement to an otherwise dull transfer window for supporters.

Mata opens up on his new role at Man United

Manchester United star Juan Mata has admitted to enjoying his new role as a second striker, pointing to his previous experience in that position.

The playmaker has seen himself play just in behind Alexis Sanchez but with the two working off of each other rather than one creating for the other.

Mata has typically played as a right-winger during his time with United, often expected to come in from the flank to the middle to dictate play.

The Spaniard though has seen himself being tested out in a new position during the club’s pre-season after Jose Mourinho switched formations.

The Red Devils are having a bit of a crisis in terms of first team players that are missing and as such the Portuguese has switched to a 3-5-2 shape.

According to Manchester Evening News, Juan said: “Yes it is a different shape, I think the manager is trying to fit all the first team players into the first eleven.

“I think it is a shape which is difficult to play against. I used to play as a striker as a kid in the Real Madrid academy, and I enjoyed it, it was fun.

“It has been some years since I played in there, but I am trying to do all of the movement and trying to score.”

Despite featuring as a striker, Mata has enjoyed a rather successful pre-season so far, getting plenty of minutes under his belt ahead of a crucial campaign.

Reports earlier emerged the attacking midfielder would be handed a new contract after the Red Devils’ tour but only in order to avoid losing him for free.

It appears Juan’s future at the club will never not be up in the air.

4-3-3: How Man United could line up against Real Madrid with Fred in midfield

Manchester United take on Real Madrid on Tuesday night for the final game of the club’s tumultuous pre-season tour of the United States.

Jose Mourinho remains without a large portion of first team players as they continue their holidays after the World Cup. Antonio Valencia, Eric Bailly, Nemanja Matic and Diogo Dalot are all injured as well.

No further signings have been added to the squad since Man United landed in Los Angeles on July 15, but the arrival of Fred and David de Gea to the club’s tour has served as an important boost for Mourinho’s ailing mood.

With that in mind, here is how United could line up against the European champions in Miami with the pair starting their first game of pre-season.

United’s midfield didn’t merely break down against Liverpool last weekend – it never functioned in the first place.

Andreas Pereira once again impressed but the pairing of Ander Herrera and Scott McTominay further behind was insipid, sucking any forward momentum out of United’s play.

The injection of Fred alongside Pereira, therefore, coupled with a change in formation to give the side more width, could go some way towards addressing what was an embarrassing team performance from United against Jurgen Klopp’s side.

Juventus and Milan eyeing move for Chelsea defender

Juventus and AC Milan are interested in signing Chelsea central defender David Luiz.

According to The Mirror, Luiz is keen to snub their interest and fight for his place after the arrival of Maurizio Sarri.

Luiz looked set to leave Chelsea this summer after he was frozen out of the first-team by Antonio Conte last season.

Conte fell out with Luiz in the early part of the campaign, with the defender going on to make two Premier League appearances.

Juventus, AC Milan and Napoli are all thought to be interested in signing Luiz, but he wants to remain at Stamford Bridge.

Luiz has played his part for Sarri in pre-season and looks set to be given a chance to revive his career at Chelsea.

The central defender was named in the Premier League team of the season for Chelsea in the 2016/17 campaign.

The post Juventus and Milan keen on David Luiz appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Pogba: This is why I didn't dye my hair during the World Cup

Paul Pogba opted against colouring his hair during the World Cup in order to force his critics to focus on his performances and nothing else.

The Frenchman’s penchant for dyeing his hair has, for some reason, incensed a number of critics – mainly those from the, ahem, older generation – during his time at Manchester United, most notably ahead of his match winning performance at the Ethiad during which he played with sky blue hair.

At the World Cup, however, he stayed loyal to keeping his hair away from any colourants as France, bolstered by his leadership and sensational midfield performances, rampaged to glory in Russia.

Pogba, amid a Q&A session on his Instagram story, remarked that he intentionally left his hair colourless to ensure critics focused on his performances.

The image of a young, rich, black, successful Muslim with dyed hair is enough to make your average Graeme Souness type explode in a fit of diabolical rage. Many critics, upon seeing Pogba’s barnet and demeanour, harbour a kind of antipathy towards him before a ball is kicked – the dye already cast, so to speak (sorry).

At the World Cup, as Pogba explains, they were forced to focus on what he was doing with the ball at his feet, and what they saw was nothing short of world class.

He grew as the tournament went on, his presence more commanding, and ended up scoring the winner in the World Cup final, cementing himself in sporting history and the hearts of French people forever. No haircut can ever change that.

Manchester United scouts propose bid for this World Cup superstar: report

Manchester United’s scouting department has encouraged the club’s board to launch a bid to sign Croatia winger Ante Rebic, according to Duncan Castles.

The club has been on the hunt for a right sided winger for some time, with Jose Mourinho pinpointing Willian, who he signed as Chelsea manager, as a potential solution.

Rebic, who plays for Eintracht Frankfurt, has also emerged as a target after impressing on the right hand side for Croatia during their journey to the World Cup final over the summer.

According to Castles in a piece for the Sunday Times, the scouting department has proposed Rebic as a solution to the club’s problem in that area of the pitch.

Mourinho certainly had other targets in mind; Rebic was hardly a top target – or even that well known – ahead of the World Cup. Other players like Justin Kluivert, Ivan Perisic, Gareth Bale and Malcom are no longer viable options.

Attention appears to be focused primarily on reinforcing the central defence, with Harry Maguire, Toby Alderweireld and Yerry Mina all reportedly pinpointed as targets. This position, to Mourinho, is the priority. Signing a right sided attacker, therefore, would be an unlikely bonus in this fallow transfer window for United.

Nantes join race for Chelsea defender

Nantes have joined the race to sign Chelsea defender Matt Miazga, who currently looks set to sign for Caen, according to Foot Mercado.

Miazga is said to be travelling to Caen to finalise personal terms and complete his medical.

Twitter: Matt Miazga is due to arrive in Caen tomorrow ahead of finalising personal terms & undergoing a medical to complete… https://t.co/4Eyd0Czg8P (@GFFN)

Nantes are hoping that their last-minute move can scupper the deal and persuade him to join them.

He is set to seal a season-long loan away from Chelsea, his second loan since joining the club

The 23-year-old spent the last two seasons on loan to Vitesse in the Dutch league, making 55 appearances.

The American international has played twice in the Premier League for Chelsea, since his move to London from New York Red Bulls.

He has been capped seven times at international level, scoring once.

The post Nantes join race for Miazga appeared first on Read Chelsea.

Chelsea target set for move to AC Milan

Chelsea target Gonzalo Higuain is closing in on a season-long loan move to AC Milan.

According to The Mirror, Higuain is set to complete his switch to Milan this week, with talks planned for Tuesday.

The report claims that Juventus are trying to flog Higuain after the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid.

Chelsea have been heavily linked with a move for Higuain throughout the summer but now look set to miss out on the forward.

The Mirror claim that Higuain was not willing to leave Italy and, thus, has rejected the chance to join Chelsea to seal a move to Milan.

Higuain does, however, want to be assured that Milan will make the deal permanent at the end of the season.

Chelsea have been looking for a new striker during the transfer window and will now have to look elsewhere for their new number nine.

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