"United committed to supporting Ten Hag’s ideas”, but the clock is ticking - Fabrizio Romano

The famous Italian journalist, Fabrizio Romano, has quashed any concerns about Erik ten Hag’s immediate future at the club.

The transfer guru claimed in his Daily Briefing today that he has faced a bombardment of questions about the Dutchman’s future at the helm of the club.

There had been a tad of optimism around the team after three straight narrow victories but the chastening 3-0 loss at home to their cross-city rivals was an all too familiar wake up call.

Some of the manager’s pre and in-game decision making has come under fire from the wider fan base. Romano explains that there were “raised eyebrows” by the choice to opt for Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans over Raphael Varane or Victor Lindelof at the centre back position.

Moreover, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher slammed the style of football under the Dutchman as “underdog football”. The former Liverpool defender also claims that this Red Devils side are “shocking” playing out from the back and are the only top team that play a long ball counter-attacking system.

Damning criticism of a manager who once upon a time played such free-flowing football at Ajax.

Yet despite all of these thunderclouds appearing over Old Trafford, Romano confirms that according to his sources, the manager still enjoys the support and trust of the United hierarchy, although he adds:

“Still, it’s also true that everyone at Manchester United knows the situation has to change – results against the big teams can’t continue like this, but for now it’s important to say that the club are still supporting and backing Ten Hag.”

The Italian journalist goes on to assert that the problems at the club go much deeper than the manager and the players. In his own opinion, the length of the ownership situation has taken “so long to resolve” and is an “an important piece of the story”.

There is also a depressing comparison to Manchester City’s situation. In a post-match interview the Citizens’ boss, Pep Guardiola, indirectly highlighted the stark differences between the two Manchester giants’ club structures.

The Catalan lavished praise on his own bosses by claiming that there is complete clarity behind the scenes and how everyone at the club was going in the same direction. Not even the most bright-eyed optimistic Manchester United fan could say the Red Devils were in a similar boat.

Romano finishes by stating that there is an immense need to bring clarity to the ownership situation. Something which every supporter of the football club is also desperate to see.

While it is true that there are a multitude of issues on the red side of Manchester right now, none seem realistically fixable until the muddled ownership situation is dealt with, one way or another.

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Kieran Trippier 393 vs. 56 for Rashford and Antony combined: this is United's glaring problem - analysis

Much has been made in recent weeks about Erik ten Hag’s tactical decisions around the team but one thing that has escaped too much scrutiny in the mainstream media is the deployment of his wingers.

Players such as Marcus Rashford and Antony have come in for some stick from the likes of Ruud Gullit and Rio Ferdinand for not providing a proper service to Rasmus Hojlund, who is yet to get off the mark for United in the Premier League.

Before Hojlund, Cristiano Ronaldo seemed constantly frustrated by the lack of service provided to him.

As noted here yesterday, Rashford himself seems to perform better when not playing alongside a traditional CF. When a number 9 like Anthony Martial is deployed, there is more positional fluidity and Rashford seems to revel in that freedom.

Both Rashford and Antony have often been accused of being selfish players, more intent on cutting inside to take the shot themselves rather than putting in a cross for the striker to pounce on.

Could there be a very simple explanation as to why this is the case?

Rashford is a right footed player playing on the left wing. Antony is a left-footed player playing on the right wing. This plain fact means that their natural instinct will be to cut inside on their strong foot rather than reach the byeline and cross with their weaker foot.

The same could be said of Jadon Sancho, a right footer bought by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to play on the right wing but being deployed – until his exile – by Ten Hag mostly on the left.

Fans have often observed that Rashford does not seem as effective on the right as on the left, but to the naked eye, it would appear that he is far more likely to attempt a cross than to cut inside when deployed in that role. Perhaps some persistence playing him in that position would allow this aspect of his game to develop and as such, a better service would be provided to the central men.

This might come across as an old-fashioned approach to the game and the role of a winger is much more fluid these days than simply putting a good cross in. Much more emphasis nowadays is placed on the full backs to put in the crosses from the overlap. Liverpool have exploited this tactic perfectly with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson both in the top 10 PL crossers last season. Another full-back, Newcastle’s Kieran Trippier tops the list.

Nonetheless, if a winger is too one-footed, his game becomes too predictable and too easy to defend. The likes of Bukayo Saka at Arsenal and Jack Grealish at Manchester City also play the reverse wing to their stronger foot, but are arguably much stronger with their weaker foot than Rashford and Antony.

Looking at the Premier League’s crossing stats for both this season and last, Bruno Fernandes is United’s top crosser. In 2022/23 he was 19th in the PL rankings for number of crosses, this season he is fifth – possibly due to the proportion of games he has played in the right wing role.

Diogo Dalot is second for United this season and Christian Eriksen third. Rashford is fourth for United and only 77th in the PL overall for crosses delivered. Then comes Mason Mount before we finally find Antony in 108th position.

Last season, Bruno was again by far United’s most frequent crosser. Luke Shaw came second, but was only 38th in the league, then came Eriksen and Dalot, before Antony, in 125th place. Rashford was a shocking 148th.

Between them last season, Rashford and Antony totalled 56 crosses. Compare that to Trippier, who managed 393 on his own.

Luke Shaw is obviously a big miss for United in this area so far this season but it is still an issue. If switching Rashford and Antony’s sides seems too drastic, would it not be worth at least trying to have them alternate for sections of the game?

All stats from Premier League.com

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Explained: why United made bizarre decision to pass on the signing of the summer - report

Manchester United decided to pass on James Maddison this summer as Old Trafford officials felt the England midfielder was “too identical” to Bruno Fernandes.

Samuel Luckhurst (Manchester Evening News) has revealed Maddison was considered by United given his cut-price availability, courtesy of Leicester’s relegation from the Premier League, but ultimately disregarded given his profile as a creative number ten.

Fernandes, at his best, operates in the exact same area of the pitch as Maddison, in the exact same style of player. Both are output machines, who thrive receiving the ball in the space between the opposition’s midfield and defence, with willing runners ahead of them.

Luckhurst contends it’s this overlap in skillset which led United to look elsewhere this summer. This has proven a significant benefit to Tottenham Hotspur, and potentially a damaging one to Erik ten Hag.

Maddison has been electric at the white of the Lilywhites since he relocated to London for what has proven a bargain £40 million. Three goals and five assists and the creative heart beat of his newly adopted home gives the number ten a strong case for being both the signing of the summer, and the player of the season thus far.

Maddison took on the considerable weight of the number ten shirt at Tottenham from the recently departed Harry Kane in the summer. To say he has thrived under the pressure would be an understatement.

Tottenham sit currently first in the Premier League table, playing an exciting brand of attacking football under new manager Ange Postecoglou, with Maddison as the spearhead of the Australian’s revolution. Spurs are yet to lose a game this season.

A player who has not thrived under the pressure of a weighty shirt, by comparison, is Mason Mount.

The Cobham graduate swapped Stamford Bridge for Old Trafford at a similar point to Maddison’s transfer, picking up the esteemed number seven shirt at United in the process. The similarities with Maddison end there.

Mount has endured an anonymous start to life in Manchester. A combination of injuries, low morale and an ineffectual tactical set-up by his new manager has meant Mount has been unable to impose himself on games. One assist and zero goals in eight games tells its own story.

The most confusing part of the transfer, which set United back a potential £60 million for a player with one year left on his deal, is that Mount has still played in the number ten position, alongside Fernandes.

Old Trafford officials were thought to have refuted the notion of a move for Maddison based on his overlap with the United captain, yet the alternative they pursued falls foul of many of the same similarities. The state of United’s midfield on the opening day against Wolves, and in many subsquent iterations since, demonstrates the poorly thought-out nature of this plan.

Mount is a player who operates best as the most advanced midfielder, almost more of a forward. The same holds true for both Fernandes and Maddison.

Yet the Spurs man was available at nearly 2/3 of the price of Mount, on significantly cheaper wages. Maddison has consistently produced assists and goals at a similar rate to his England team-mate, while playing for a much worse team.

Now he has joined a ‘big six’ side, his rate of productivity appears to have gone to another level, while Mount continues to display the same performances which led many to question his best attributes while at Chelsea (or England).

If the difference between Tottenham and United this season had to be boiled down to one decision, it would be the midfield recruit in the summer.

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“World-class on one-on-one”: Ten Hag’s brilliant backup star could be given chance vs Newcastle

Altay Bayindir is Manchester United´s newest addition to the seemingly revolving door of the goalkeeping department.

The keeper made history by becoming the first Turk to sign for the club. However, whether or not the player is ready to take on the mantle of being Manchester United’s shot-stopper if called upon is up for debate.

Eyebrows were raised when Erik ten Hag overlooked Bayindir against Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup at the backend of September.

Nonetheless, the coach defended his decision claiming that the 25-year-old is progressing well in training and that the coaching staff are happy with him. Ten Hag also claimed that his choice was based on Onana´s need to “adapt to the English standard” according to The Mirror.

As a result, Manchester United fans are yet to see their new keeper in action. The Athletic have stepped in to give the supporters some much needed background on the man from Osmangazi.

The summer recruit is described as a solid all-round keeper who despite having space to grow, has had experience of some of “the most intense football games played on Earth”.

To continue with the good news, Bayindir has been portrayed as a world class one-on-one keeper with excellent reflexes. The Turk is also more than happy to race off his line to cut counter attacks. This quality has been put down to his time as Fenerbache’s number one, who are used to seeing the lion’s share of the ball in the Turkish Super Lig.

Although, all is not rosy in the garden of Altay. He has been described as having a weak passing game who struggles to make a “chipped through ball to the full-backs” to beat the first wave of the press.

If this is an accurate depiction, it makes Ten Hag’s desire to sign him this summer a strange one considering Andre Onana was recruited for just over 47 million pounds to enhance United’s ability to play out from the back.

Worryingly, his decision making when coming to claim crosses has also faced significant scrutiny. So, to sum up, United have purchased a keeper who has strong reflexes but struggles on the ball and in the air.

So it begs the question, haven’t the club gone down this road before with a certain David De Gea?

Altay Bayindir’s style is a curious choice to back up Andre Onana but the reality is, he may have to. The Cameroonian keeper is yet to decide whether or not he will play at the AFCON with his national side this January. Should he opt to, the Turkish shot-stopper will be thrown right into the lion’s den of post-Christmas Premier League football.

The Athletic finish the article with a more promising assertion that Bayindir is “an exciting recruitment that could turn out to be great with the right help and handling”. Let’s hope for both Manchester United’s and Turkey’s sake, this prediction comes into fruition.

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PL high-flyers "seriously considering" cut-price January deal for United's problem child - report

Manchester United succumbed to yet another disappointing defeat, this time at the hands of cross-town rivals Manchester City 0-3 in the Manchester derby on Sunday.

Manager Erik ten Hag looked bereft of ideas as the entire team put in a cowardly performance at Old Trafford with the attacking quartet yet again looking dire.

The performance of Marcus Rashford was a particular lowlight while Antony’s introduction saw the Brazilian do nothing positive of note except stir up problems.

United have a lack of firepower with Sancho still banished

The Dutchman’s options from the bench look limited as well with hardly any explosive wingers at his disposal while Jadon Sancho remains banished.

The Englishman could have been a great option to have, either from the start or as a substitute, but the winger’s refusal to apologise means a parting of ways in January is seen as the most likely outcome.

A lot of sides including former club Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona, teams from Saudi Arabia and even a few surprising names in England are all eyeing a January move.

Now as per Fichajes, Tottenham Hotspur are also interested in the 23-year-old as they look to continue their winning momentum which has seen them climb to the top of the Premier League table.

The move will also be beneficial for Sancho, who is desperate to regain his place in Gareth Southgate’s England team ahead of the European Championships next year.

The Red Devils had paid €85 million for the England international’s services back in 2021 but his poor form and lack of minutes has meant a drastic drop in valuation.

Ange Postecoglou’s side are said to be considering paying €35 million for the former City academy graduate, a figure which will see United take a huge hit on their initial investment.

Spurs eyeing cut-price Sancho deal

“Tottenham, current leader of the Premier League, has aroused great interest in the world of football by showing its determined intention to sign Jadon Sancho.

“The Manchester United player, looking for a new opportunity to regain his form before the Euro Cup and the World Cup, could be the key piece to strengthen the Spurs attack and stay at the top of the league.

“The England international’s market value is estimated at around €35 ​​million, a figure that Tottenham are seriously considering.”

But with Ten Hag desperate for funds and to remove Sancho from the squad, a move could yet happen. Ideally, United should send him out on loan and hope for him to regain his form so as to sell him for a more lucrative deal.

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United hierarchy issues defiant Ten Hag stance after dismal derby defeat - report

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag retains the backing of senior figures at Old Trafford even as his side struggles to put together a run of decent results this season.

United were thoroughly beaten by Manchester City on Sunday at their own home by three goals to nil. A brace from Erling Haaland and a goal from Phil Foden were enough to compound Ten Hag’s woes.

This season, the Red Devils have lost five of their first 10 league games for the first time since 1986.

It is almost a similar story in the Champions League, where United sit third in their group after successive defeats at the hands of Bayern Munich and Galatasaray, before narrowly grabbing a dramatic win against FC Copenhagen a week ago.

In total, United have won seven games across all competitions this term and have lost as many matches – an extremely poor return for the 20-time English league champions.

Pressure is undoubtedly mounting on Ten Hag, with questions being asked regarding the Dutchman’s long-term future as the team’s manager.

The 53-year-old has recently come under intense scrutiny for a number of strange and dubious decisions with respect to team selections, in-game management, style of play or lack of it and even public rhetoric.

From the outside, it appears Ten Hag’s credit is wearing thin and he is no longer as bulletproof as he initially was.

However, according to The Manchester Evening News, Ten Hag retains the backing of the hierarchy, who are counting on him to overturn the situation and get the club back on track.

Samuel Luckhurst reports, “Erik ten Hag retains the full backing of the Manchester United power brokers and chief executive Richard Arnold believes the club is making ‘good progress.”

“Despite the dismal performances of the team, the Manchester Evening News can reveal Arnold has told interested observers United are progressing as a club.”

Richard Arnold was present during the 0-3 thrashing against City.

A report covered by The Peoples Person revealed that Arnold’s job is also not secure amidst an imminent partial investment from Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Ratcliffe is closing in on a 25% investment in United that would effectively make him a minority owner.

The expectation is that the INEOS billionaire will be granted full sporting control to oversee a guaranteed overhaul of operations at the club.

If this happens, there is a strong chance that Arnold will step down to allow Sir Jim to bring in his own personnel.

The British businessman coming in would also put a spotlight on Ten Hag’s future and his tenure in the United dugout.

It was suggested that INEOS are admirers of former Chelsea boss Graham Potter, who would be strongly considered if the decision to replace Ten Hag is made.

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Former United winger offers to coach underperforming current crop

Manchester United fell to another defeat at Old Trafford on Sunday, losing the Manchester Derby by three goals to nil.

Erling Haaland’s double was added to by Phil Foden to complete a dominant City display, leaving United with five league defeats from their opening 10 fixtures.

United were particularly blunt in attack and looked toothless throughout, especially from wide areas.

So much so that former winger Gordon Hill took to Twitter to offer his support to the club in the way of coaching the underperforming wide men.

If united need a winger coach I would willing help

— Gordon Hill (@gordonhill54) October 30, 2023

One fan reacted to Hill’s offer by stating “Need more than a winger. Whole club is rotten to the core,” to which the 69-year-old responded, “Yes but need to start somewhere.”

Hill knows what it takes to succeed at United having scored an impressive 51 goals in his 134 appearance for the club.

However, the gap in quality in attacking areas yesterday was a stark reminder to Erik ten Hag of just how far his side are behind their treble-winning neighbours.

United have lacked dynamism in on the flanks all season with Marcus Rashford’s alarming dip in form symptomatic of the problems going forward.

Antony’s off the field issues have impacted his start to the season and Jadon Sancho has been banished from the squad since early September.

Alejandro Garnacho continues to look bright from the bench but isn’t trusted to go full pelt for 90 minutes – similar can be said for Facundo Pellistri.

Rasmus Hojlund is also still without a Premier League goal, despite his notable effort and commitment to the cause since his arrival.

United now have to dust themselves down as they face a repeat of last year’s triumphant Carabao Cup final with Newcastle visiting Old Trafford, in the same competition on Wednesday night.

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Goal-shy United could have done with academy graduate who has "not regretted" transfer decision

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag was asked about his team’s inability to score ahead of the all-important Manchester derby.

The Dutchman criticised his forwards for failing despite turnovers in dangerous positions with both his wingers letting him down so far this season.

Marcus Rashford, who was last season’s top scorer, has netted only once while Antony on the right looks devoid of confidence and is failing to even cut inside and shoot, something he is usually good at.

United’s struggles up front

With Jadon Sancho still out of the picture, another versatile winger could have been the perfect solution but the manager ended up selling Anthony Elanga in the summer.

The Swede moved to Nottingham Forest and has already enjoyed a more prolific campaign as compared to last season where he hardly got chances.

In Ten Hag’s first season, the United academy graduate started only seven games in all competitions, registering only two assists.

After breaking through under former interim manager Ralf Rangnick, the hope was that the Sweden international would go from strength to strength under the Dutchman.

But he found chances hard to come by under the former Ajax coach and eventually United sold him for £15 million as Ten Hag trimmed his squad.

Under Steve Cooper, the 21-year-old has started four times and assisted thrice, while scoring the winner against Chelsea in the Premier League.

And he has no regrets over leaving a club he was there for nine years. Even though there seems to be a gaping hole in the squad which he could have filled, Elanga is already looking forward to his new innings at Forest.

Elanga does not regret leaving United

“It wasn’t easy to leave United because I had been there for nine years from the academy to first team. But at the end of the day I have to think about myself and would I want to stay another year coming in and out from the bench or be a starter at a team on the rise, improving and getting better,’ he told The Daily Mail.

“When I make a decision I stick by it. I have not regretted that decision one bit,” he said. “My senior time at United was short, two years of valuable learning, ups and downs and I take that experience and bring it here.

“I learned a lot from them and take that experience what they did on and off the pitch and try to bring it here and apply it to my game.”

United fans will wish Elanga the best moving forward and will hope United’s current wingers can get their act together soon with important fixtures coming up.

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United legend pens emotional note after receiving "tremendous comfort" post heartbreaking loss

Sir Alex Ferguson has spoken publicly to the wider Manchester United fanbase about the loss of his wife, Lady Cathy, in the matchday programme ahead of the Manchester derby.

The ex-Manchester United manager put pen to paper to illustrate the “painful loss of my beloved wife Cathy”.

The Mirror reports that the tribute to his late wife is part of a 1000 word eulogy for Sir Bobby Charlton, who also sadly passed this October.

According to The Mail, the couple met when they were both working in a typewriter factory in Glasgow in 1964.

Amusingly, the article also claims that Cathy had thought he was a thug when they first came across one another. However, once discovering he was a footballer, it didn’t make him any different from her.

Sir Alex and Lady Cathy faced one of their first challenges together even before getting married in 1966. The bride came from a Catholic background while the groom from a Protestant community. This was a problem being set in the backdrop of 1960s Glasgow which was “harshly divided by sectarianism”.

The former United manager also ensured the general public were aware that his successes were only possible because of the support of his wife.

Sir Alex wrote that “without her unstinting support” , he would never have been able hit the heights that he was able to in his managerial career.

Ferguson also claimed that Cathy was the “mainstay” of the family and took on the majority of the burden of raising their children during the many hours he was away from home.

It also cannot be understated the role Lady Cathy must have played during Sir Alex’s own health issues when he suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2018.

Sadly, earlier this month, after nearly 60 years together, Cathy passed away. The Manchester United community showed its support with the team wearing black armbands and lowering the flags to half-mast at Old Trafford.

Even former players took part, as Ashley Young, now at Everton, wore a black armband and took to X to express his condolences to the Ferguson family.

Now, the man who gave so much to United fans over the years is set to move onto the next stage of his life and it is important that he feels the support of the Manchester United family.

Fortunately he has already spoken about the “tremendous comfort” that can be found in the Red Devils community.

Hopefully the legendary manager can keep up his work as a director of the club and continue playing some sort of role at the club he did so much to build into the football giant it is today.

Like many fans of the club, especially those born in the 1990s, Alex Ferguson and Manchester United are two inseparable, wonderful entities.

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Flying PL winger reveals his secret love for Manchester United

Manchester United’s incredible fanbase stretches far and wide, with supporters getting behind the team from all around the globe.

Generations of fans have grown up supporting the famous club, some of whom are now plying their trade in the Premier League.

Speaking to the Sky Sports YouTube channel, West Ham United forward Jarrod Bowen has revealed he was one of those influenced by the United side, with one man in-particular inspiring him to travel to Old Trafford as a boy.

“I loved David Beckham growing up. I used to go to games after school, I remember I used to leave at about 4pm from Hereford and then go to the games,” said Bowen.

Bowen has enjoyed a remarkable rise to the Premier League, having moved to West Ham from Hull City in the winter of 2020.

The forward has been in fine form since his arrival in London, scoring the winner in The Hammer’s Europa Conference final last season and earning a place in the England squad.

There are no rumours to suggest Bowen will secure his dream move to United but should his excellent performances continue, who knows where his journey may take him.

West Ham teammate Michael Antonio recently warned off any potential suitors by slapping a £60 million price tag on Bowen’s head.

“He’s English, scores goals for fun. If he’s going it’s got to be £60 million,” said Antonio.

The Peoples Person recently reported that Bowen could soon be joined by a current United player at his current side, with West Ham monitoring the availability of Jadon Sancho.

Sancho hasn’t played for United since his social media outburst against Erik ten Hag last month and is expected to leave the club in January.

Meanwhile, Bowen will hope for another strong showing at home to Everton tomorrow (Sunday) with United facing Manchester City in a mouth-watering Derby at Old Trafford.

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United announce series of tributes for Sir Bobby Charlton ahead of Manchester derby

Manchester United have announced that they will commemorate Sir Bobby Charlton’s life with a series of tributes before kick-off against Manchester City on Sunday.

United are set to host City at Old Trafford for the 191st Manchester derby.

A week after news broke out that Sir Bobby had passed away, the World Cup, European Cup and Ballon d’Or winner is still being honoured, in a testament to the man’s incredible legacy.

The Premier League confirmed that a moment’s applause will be held in tribute to the England icon at all clashes this weekend.

A moment's applause will be held in tribute to Sir Bobby Charlton, one of England’s greatest footballers, at all Premier League fixtures this weekend.

https://t.co/Ttlao65EGs pic.twitter.com/YNSX1npsNN

— Premier League (@premierleague) October 27, 2023

Speaking during his presser ahead of the Manchester derby, City boss Pep Guardiola confirmed that they would join United to pay homage to Sir Bobby.

The Red Devils have now revealed their plans to celebrate the departed club legend.

“The East Stand window will be dressed with banners remembering the club icon, and the centre circle will be covered with a commemorative banner before kick-off.”

“As the respective teams walk out of the tunnel, fans in the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand will be asked to raise pieces of paper above their heads to build a giant mosaic.”

“The paper will be recycled after the match and supporters are asked to leave it under their seats at full-time, if they do not wish to take it home as a memento.”

United adds that alongside the mosaic, a giant surfer banner will be rolled out across the Stretford End.

The banners in question are being made by fan groups.

Each player who walks out of the tunnel will be sporting black armbands. There will also be a minute’s applause which will be initiated and brought to an end by stadium announcer Alan Keegan.

A section of ex-United and former City players will congregate on the pitch during the minute’s applause.

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United's summer transfers funded entirely by new loans as debt spirals - report

Manchester United’s annual report has revealed three new loans made by the club that have left the Old Trafford outfit perilously close to its credit limit.

Erik ten Hag’s squad was strengthened in the summer with the arrivals of Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount, Andre Onana, Altay Bayindir, Sofyan Amrabat and Sergio Reguilon, the latter two on loan.

The total transfer and loan fees involved were €204.4 million.

Player sales amounted to €55.4 million, meaning there was a net spend of €145 million, around £127 million pounds sterling at the current exchange rate.

As highlighted by football finance expert Kieran Maguire, the recently published annual report shows that the net spend was funded entirely by new loans.

Since the 30 June year end Manchester United borrowed £50m on 3 July, £50m on 3 August and £60m on 10 October. This takes total gross debt to £773 million. #MUFC #Glazernomics pic.twitter.com/P15iF2cYKl

— Kieran Maguire (@KieranMaguire) October 28, 2023

The report shows that loans totalling £130 million, comprising £50 million in July, £45 million in August and £35 million in October, were taken out.

These loans have increased the club’s overall debt to a whopping £773 million.

Even more concerning is that the new loans have left United just £40 million remaining in their revolving credit facilities.

These are pre-agreed credit facilities from the Bank of America and Santander of a total of £300 million, essentially equivalent to the club’s credit card limit. £260 million of that £300m credit facility has now been spent.

What is unclear at this stage is whether the Glazers would be able to secure any other type of loan elsewhere once their revolving credit line is exhausted.

If not, they are essentially close to being “maxed out”, which in turn would mean there would be zero transfer budget available for Ten Hag until the club is sold or refinanced in some way.

It remains to be seen whether the potential investment into the club by Sir Jim Ratcliffe of some £1.3bn will go ahead and if so, how much of that will be put into the football coffers to allow transfer business to continue and how much, if any, will be used to reduce the debt.

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Former United midfield star opens up about life-threatening drug addiction during PL career

Former Manchester United academy graduate and Republic of Ireland international, Darron Gibson, has opened up about his addiction to sleeping pills.

The now retired midfielder had to deal with many issues in his career on and off the field.

Gibson had horrible luck with serious injuries in his career, including a terrible knee injury whilst at Everton and a horrific leg break on his last ever appearance in professional football for Salford City in 2020.

To compound matters, the Irishman also had a run in with the law when he faced a lengthy drink driving ban in 2018 whilst playing for Sunderland.

Now he has taken the brave step of opening up about his issues with addiction which he claims almost cost him his life. He stated in a recent interview with the 42 that when “looking back at pictures, I was grey, if I had kept going I would have died. I was taking 12 to 14 sleeping tablets a night.”

The article states that Gibson was rushed to hospital last year after having seizures which the doctors thought were connected to epilepsy.

The former Manchester United player asserted that he knew all along the problem was related to his consumption of sleeping pills but he did not feel he could talk about it, even with medical professionals.

The battle with addiction had been going on for years, beginning when he sustained his knee injury in 2013. Gibson also stated that he had taken medication before the infamous drink driving incident in 2018.

The midfielder also explained that “I did enjoy playing but I am a lot happier now”.

Clearly the pressures of top flight football were a major contributing factor to to his struggles with addiction.

Additionally, Gibson also claims he “felt horrendous” for Dele Alli when he confessed to Gary Neville on Sky’s Overlap show about his own issues with sleeping medication

The truth is that we as fans sometimes do not understand or sympathise sufficiently with the pressures at the very top of the sport. Gibson, like Alli before him, have been brave to speak out about their struggles.

Hopefully the ex-Manchester United man can now properly enjoy his retirement from the game.

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An amazing 13 United stars called up for international duty as the Women’s Nations League continues

There are 13 Manchester United Women stars on international duty this week as the Nations League continues.

In action for the England Lionesses, who face Belgium tonight, is shot-stopper Mary Earps, who was instrumental in the Reds 5-0 thrashing of Everton last weekend.

Ella Toone, one of the most popular players amongst England and United fans, has also been called up for England’s crucial matches against Belgium.

Captain Katie Zelem and Maya Le Tissier are also in the squad alongside Grace Clinton, who is currently on loan at Tottenham Hotspur.

England face Belgium at home tonight before travelling to face them away next Tuesday.

They need a good win tonight as they currently sit in third in their group behind tonight’s opponents and the Netherlands, who beat them last time out.

A place in the Olympics next year is riding on progression out of the group.

Meanwhile, three United women have been called up for Wales, their young goalkeeper, Safia Middleton-Patel, midfield maestro Hayley Ladd and defender Gemma Evans.

Wales are in action against European runners up, Germany, tonight.

They are currently bottom of their group with no points on the board so far.

One of United’s star signings this summer, Geyse, has been called up for Brazil, who take on Canada tomorrow.

She will come up against her United teammate Jayde Riviere, who will play in defence for Canada.

Lucia Garcia will meet up with former teammate Ona Batlle as Spain take on Italy this evening in their Nations League clash.

The World Champions are currently top of their group having played two and won two.

Meanwhile, Norway take on France in group A2 and Lisa Naalsund will be a part of their squad.

They have drawn one and lost one so far with tonight’s opponents leading that group.

Hinata Miyazawa has been called up for training with Japan after a bright start to her season in the WSL.

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United will miss the biggest club competition in history without meeting crucial condition - report

Manchester United will need to win the UEFA Champions League this season if they are to have any hope of qualifying for the biggest club competition in history.

FIFA has revamped their Club World Cup, scrapping the current setup in which seven clubs that win their respective continental tournaments face off in a straight knockout tournament.

Instead, world football’s governing body is looking to emulate the format of the regular World Cup, whereby 32 clubs from across the globe will play against one another once every four years.

With an enormous prize fund of over £50 million per team, the first edition of the new-look Club World Cup is set to take place in the USA in 2025.

There are 12 available spots for European teams at the tournament, four of which go to the Champions League winners from 2021 until the current season, meaning that Chelsea, Manchester City, and Real Madrid have all secured qualification as well as this season’s champion.

An additional eight slots will be allocated according to UEFA’s four-year ‘coefficient’ list, based on each club’s performance in European competitions.

There is also a cap of two clubs per country that will be enforced, unless that country has more than two clubs that have won the Champions League from 2021 onwards.

Considering that both Chelsea and Manchester City have already qualified due to being Champions League winners, this means that Man United will not be able to secure progression on their UEFA coefficient ranking alone.

The only way that United will be able to qualify would be to lift the Champions League trophy themselves.

The path to Champions League glory this season will be a long and challenging one given United’s poor start to the season.

A tight 4-3 loss to Bayern Munich in their opening match was followed by a disappointing 3-2 defeat to Galatasaray at Old Trafford.

Fortunately, a Harry Maguire header and Andre Onana penalty save secured a 1-0 win for United against FC Copenhagen on Tuesday night, lifting them off the bottom of Group A and within touching distance of second place with three matches left to play.

United’s next Champions League clash will be on November 8, when they will play their away tie against Copenhagen.

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No Glazer dividend as United post dreadful financial results despite record revenues

Manchester United have released their full accounts for the 2022-23 financial period.

United posted record full-year revenues of £648.4m, which is an impressive 11% increase from the previous financial year despite the fact Erik ten Hag’s men were playing in the Europa League last season.

The Red Devils’ have beaten their prior revenue record, which stood at £627m in the 2018/19 season when the team was in the Champions League.

United’s commercial revenues also exceeded the £300m mark for the first time, rising to £302.9m.

The 20-time English champions’ long-term debt remains unchanged at a whooping $650m.

It’s important to note that for the second time in a row, no dividends were paid. The paying of dividends to the Glazers is something United fans have criticised the owners for since their unpopular leveraged takeover in 2005.

Manchester United release full accounts for 2022-23:

Record revenue at £648.4m. Previous high was 2018/19 when in Champions League.

Commercial revenues topping £300m for first time (£302.9m).

Long-term debt remains unchanged at $650m.

No dividends paid.#MUFC

— Laurie Whitwell (@lauriewhitwell) October 26, 2023

Last year, it was revealed that the Glazers’ decision not to take dividends was partially motivated by the huge investment made into the team in order to back Ten Hag.

In the summer of 2022, United splashed £225.4m on new recruits. A strategic review that included a full or partial sale of the club was subsequently rolled out.

The process, which has lasted 11 months and is ongoing, pitted Sir Jim Ratcliffe against Qatari royal Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani. The latter’s recent withdrawal has left the door open for Sir Jim to swoop in and he is now set to win the race.

The INEOS billionaire is on track to complete a partial 25% investment into United, which is dependent on being granted full control of the Old Trafford outfit’s sporting operations.

An official announcement is still weeks away while the finer details of the arrangement are still being ironed out.

It’s important to note that despite posting record revenues, United have still registered a loss for 2022-23 period of £28.7m, which is a dramatic reduction from the £115.5m loss that was made in 2022.

The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell adds, “Employee benefit expenses (mainly player salaries) were £331.4m, a decrease of £52.8m (13.7%), due to cuts from not reaching the Champions League.”

Despite record revenue, Manchester United recorded a loss for 2022-23 of £28.7m (down from £115.5m in 2022).

Employee benefit expenses (mainly player salaries) were £331.4m, a decrease of £52.8m (13.7%), due to cuts from not reaching Champions League.#MUFC https://t.co/wgPw9nnrIk

— Laurie Whitwell (@lauriewhitwell) October 26, 2023

Some of the key points announced by United include that the “club achieved record ticket sales and attendance, and highest ever number of paid global memberships.”

“[The] club announced an industry-leading kit deal with Adidas through 2035 in August and a new front-of-shirt sponsorship deal with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon brand in September.”

“Season tickets for the current 2023/24 season sold out at the fastest rate ever with lowest ever churn.”

United also noted that the pre-season tour was extremely successful and attracted over 400,000 fans as spectators across eight cities in five countries.

The report also noted that signings made to both the men’s and women’s teams improved the team performance-wise and that helped boost revenues.

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La Liga giants to triple release clause of versatile WC winner loved by United - report

Manchester United may have kept their Champions League campaign alive but manager Erik ten Hag still has plenty of problems to deal with.

The defence has been riddled with injuries with only only one out of four permanent full-backs fit at the moment while the situation on the wings is also dire.

Antony has struggled to have any impact since his return while Jadon Sancho remains banished after failing to apologise to the manager.

United’s problems on the wings and at the back

The Brazilian needs to be dropped but there are no readymade replacements while the Englishman’s time at the club could be coming to an end as early as January.

Diogo Dalot has been overworked, which does not seem to be changing anytime soon. Aaron Wan-Bissaka remains sidelined and the earliest he might return is next month.

United could be about to solve both problems with the addition of one player. As per Fichajes, the Red Devils are looking at a January transfer for Nahuel Molina of Atletico Madrid.

The World Cup winner can play as a right-back or further forward if required and while he is not the most prolific, he is a hard worker and diligent with whatever duties he has been assigned with.

A transfer will not be as easy as it seems with Diego Simeone hoping to keep a hold of his compatriot while Premier League side Aston Villa are ahead of United in the race.

“Among the clubs interested in Atleti players, Aston Villa stands out, which has set its sights on Nahuel Molina. Although they are not the only ones, the Villans have taken the lead in the race to acquire the services of the Argentine right-back.

“Nahuel Molina has been an object of desire for Premier League clubs for some time, with Manchester United also showing interest. However, it seems that Aston Villa are one step ahead and are looking to close the deal in January.”

The versatile Argentine recently signed a contract extension until 2027 and has a market value of €50 million, a figure English clubs will have little trouble paying.

Nahuel Molina race heating up

The report also states that Atletico are concerned with the kind of attention Molina is receiving and they are contemplating over a new agreement with the player which would see his release clause tripled in a bid to ward of Premier League interest.

“The growing international attention has led to speculation about a possible early renewal of Molina’s contract with Atlético.

“Currently, the player has a termination clause of 30 million euros, and the intention would be to raise it to 90 million, with the purpose of retaining him and deterring competition.”

It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the months to come.

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United trio named in UCL Team of the Week after Copenhagen heroics

Manchester United trio of Andre Onana, Diogo Dalot and Harry Maguire have all been named in Sofascore’s UEFA Champions League Team of the Week.

The three were included in the star-studded team for their valuable contributions during United’s dramatic 1-0 win against FC Copenhagen at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

With the game on a knife edge and the Red Devils growing desperate, it was Maguire who leapt highest to score the winner.

The England international got on the end of a brilliant cross from second-half substitute Christian Eriksen to plant it into the bottom-left corner.

In addition to the goal, Maguire was extremely solid at the back and formed a solid centre-back partnership with Raphael Varane.

In what was his third consecutive start for United across all competitions, the former club skipper currently seems to be enjoying a kind of renaissance.

FC Copenhagen were awarded a late penalty when Scott McTominay was penalised for risky play inside the box with his boot adjudged to have been too high.

Jacob Neestrup’s men were given a golden chance to equalize and get a share of the spoils. However, Onana came up trumps and saved the penalty.

The Cameroonian has endured a difficult start to life but when needed the most, came up with the goods to secure the win for United and kept his side’s hopes of still making it out of Group A alive.

Dalot is another one who had a brilliant game, fresh off a stunning goal against Sheffield United just a few days before.

During a period in which Ten Hag has had to deal with multiple injuries to key players in the defensive department, Dalot has massively stepped up and ensured the likes of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia have not been missed too badly.

Other players on Sofascore’s UEFA Champions League XI include Manchester City’s Manuel Akanji and RB Leipzig’s David Raum at the back.

In midfield, Sofascore put in Xavi Simons, Rodri and Brais Méndez of Real Sociedad.

The attack was led by Porto’s Evanilson who grabbed a hat trick, with his teammate Mehdi Taremi and Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus on either side of him.

| Team of the Week

Our latest UEFA Champions League TOTW is here!

Six sides are represented in here, with players from two Manchester clubs making up almost half of our XI.

Porto's hat-trick hero Evanilson is our #UCL Player of the Week! pic.twitter.com/d3ZMKMzXjA

— Sofascore (@SofascoreINT) October 26, 2023

United face Manchester City next in a high-stakes derby clash on Sunday.

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Video: Peter Schmeichel reacts brilliantly to Onana’s heroic penalty save

Manchester United survived a late, late scare to secure a vital win against FC Copenhagen in the Champions League last night.

Harry Maguire gave United the lead with just under 20 minutes remaining at Old Trafford and that should have been the headline of the night.

However, a high boot from Scott McTominay deep into stoppage time forced Italian referee Marco Guida to hand Copenhagen the chance to claim a dramatic late point with a penalty.

After a dramatic VAR check, Jordan Larsson, son of Henrik, was given the opportunity to put a dagger in the heart of United’s qualification hopes with the last kick of the game.

However, Andre Onana lunged to his left-hand side to keep out the spot kick and ensure United claimed the imperative three points.

TNT Sport captured the reaction of the home faithful including that of treble-winning goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel, who looked delighted with the stop.

Man Utd legend @Pschmeichel1 reacts to Andre Onana's last minute save… #UCL pic.twitter.com/q7Ng4qesmx

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) October 24, 2023

Schmeichel was seen cheering with glee after Onana’s match-winning intervention which will do wonders for the 27-year-old’s confidence.

The Cameroonian has been criticized by Schmeichel in recent weeks but the former stopper will no doubt be delighted Onana came up trumps last night.

United will be hoping the save is the turning point in the former Inter Milan man’s career in Manchester as he adapts to life as the number one at Old Trafford.

The save was particularly poignant for Onana after mistakes in both of United’s previous Champions League games have played a part in leaving Ten Hag’s men with a mountain to climb to get out of Group A.

Had Larsson not been denied by Onana’s magnificent save, United would have been all but finished in this season’s competition.

Onana will hope to carry the form and confidence into the crunch clash with Manchester City at the weekend in which United will no doubt need their goalkeeper to have a good game if they are to leave with a positive result.

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Fans left in shock at bizarre refereeing in United's vital Champions League win

Manchester United secured a dramatic 1-0 victory against Danish side Copenhagen last night, just about keeping their Champions League dream alive.

A last-gasp Andre Onana penalty save meant Harry Maguire’s 72nd-minute header was enough to give United an imperative three points against the plucky Danes.

On a night of high drama at Old Trafford, United needed to dig deep to win a game that they were second best in for large periods.

Ten Hag’s side also had to contend with some rather strange refereeing decisions with Italian official Marco Guida having a night a forget.

After an end-to-end first period, Guida not only decided to not add any stoppage time but blew for the break with 15 seconds of the half remaining.

As reported by The Sun, fans were left in shock at the bizarre decision to call time on 44:45, sentiments echoed by the commentary team on TNT Sport who labelled it “strange”.

United supporters took to social media to call out the decision with one fan saying “Never witnessed a referee blowing the whistle before 45 minutes,” and another writing “The game ended at 44mins. Is the referee drunk?”

However, United were able to regroup at half-time and win the game in the second period after some tactical changes swung the game in the home side’s favour.

The questionable timekeeping wasn’t the only decision the Italian official made a mess of on the night having decided that Marcus Rashford was offside when racing through on goal before being wiped out by the Copenhagen ‘keeper.

As it turned out, Rashford looked level with the Danish backline which would have surely led to a game-changing red card for Kamil Grabara, who made some fine saves on the night.

Yet, United were not to be denied and Maguire’s header has given them hope of qualifying for the knockout phase with the reverse fixtures in the group still to be played.

Next up for Ten Hag’s troops is the crunch clash with neighbours Manchester City in which United will need to perform much better to take a positive result from the Derby.

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Alejandro Garnacho seen scuffing penalty spot in Manchester United’s Champions League victory against Copenhagen

Manchester United’s dramatic win against FC Copenhagen at Old Trafford last night kept them alive in this season’s Champions League.

On a night that will forever be remembered for the touching tribute to the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton, United must have felt the great man looking over them as they dealt with danger for the majority of the 90 minutes and beyond.

Andre Onana’s penalty save with the last action of the game spared United’s blushes and meant another positive result in Copenhagen would leave them with a good chance to progress to the knockout phase.

If divine intervention played its part last night, the dark arts of football were also used to preserve United’s single-goal lead, given to them by the head of Harry Maguire.

Alejandro Garnacho was bought on as a second-half substitute and was seen scuffing the penalty spot before Jordan Larsson, son of Henrik, had his kick saved.

No one will know for sure just how much of an impact the Argentine’s disturbance of the spot played a part in the miss but United will be delighted to still be alive and kicking in the competition.

As reported by the Daily Mail, the mischievous act was missed by most, with United boss Erik ten Hag admitting he was unaware as to what Garnacho had done.

“I didn’t see it. The referee probably didn’t see it either. I don’t know,” said Ten Hag.

It felt like a night of redemption for a few United players, with Andre Onana’s match-winning moment following with Harry Maguire’s bullet header 20 minutes from time.

Christian Eriksen also started the game on the bench and it was he who changed the game at half-time, giving United more control and producing a wonderful cross for Maguire’s winner.

Despite the result, Ten Hag will be acutely aware of another under-par performance in which United were lucky to get away unscathed.

Should United repeat the win in Copenhagen and Bayern Munich dispatch Galatasaray in Germany, it would leave Ten Hag’s troops just needing a win in Turkey to secure qualification.

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United starlet gets minutes under his belt against tough competition

Manchester United u19s continued their UEFA Youth League campaign on Tuesday against group leaders FC Copenhagen.

The visitors looked the liveliest from the start and Emil Hojlund tested early with a header straight into Tom Wooster’s arms.

United then had a big chance when James Nolan played the ball into the right channel for Ethan Wheatley who knocked the ball past the keeper but tripped himself up before he could get his shot off at the open net.

The young Reds began working their way into the match and Omari Forson showed a bit of magic to evade the tackle at the edge of the box before having his shot saved from 20 yards out.

More chances came for United with Forson playing provider with a cross to the back post that was knocked down by Ethan Williams for James Scanlon to head over the bar.

Dan Gore then got into the action with a perfectly clipped ball over the Copenhagen defenders for Forson to head at full stretch but United again failed to hit the target.

Kobbie Mainoo tried his luck late on with a long-range attempt but dragged the effort wide left.

It went into the break level at 0-0 after a tightly contested 45 minutes.

Jayce Fitzgerald entered at the break for Mainoo and almost made an immediate impact, plucking the ball out of the sky for a drilled volley that was denied by a top save.

A much quieter second half, it wasn’t until the 84th minute that the deadlock was broken when Tryphose Thcicamboud was allowed to run freely into the United box and slot into the far corner past Wooster.

United then tried to bombard the Copenhagen box in the dying minutes but ultimately couldn’t carve out a clear chance, leaving the score at 0-1 at the final whistle.

United remain on three points alongside Bayern Munich and Galatasaray with FC Copenhagen stretching their lead at the top with nine points.

United: Wooster, Missin (Jackson 75), Nolan, Kambwala, Kingdon (Musa 87), Williams, Mainoo (Fitzgerald 46), Gore, Forson, Scanlon (Lacey 69), Wheatley

Unused subs: Myles, McAllister, Curley

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Sir Jim Ratcliffe told the crucial thing he needs to do at United

The Manchester United takeover saga looks to be reaching its conclusion after Sheikh Jassim pulled out of the running to buy the club during the last international break.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS consortium looks to have secured a 25% stake in United and will work closely with the Glazer family to attempt to solve the problems at Old Trafford.

The new investment will be welcomed by fans but the fact the much-maligned American owners remain in situ will not stop the supporter protests and ill-feeling toward the hierarchy.

As reported by The Sun, former United defender Rio Ferdinand has broken his silence on the saga and feels the fans need to be told exactly what Ratcliffe’s 25% stake means for the running of the club and communicating his plans will be key to getting a frustrated fan-base on his side.

“We’ve not had it explained what 25 per cent looks like from a business standpoint, to appease the anxiety. Most fans wanted a new ownership. It’s not that now, so communication is vital.

“If Mr Ratcliffe is coming in and wants to hit the ground running, show some signs of influence. One of the key areas he needs to zone in on is communication with the fanbase,” said Ferdinand.

The United legend added the attitude of the decision-makers at the club can have a huge impact on the feeling in and outside of the ground and the communication must be better moving forward, labelling the current set-up as “unhealthy”.

“They are so important with the tone around the ground and that influences players. If you can control the hype, you have a better chance of keeping the dressing room tight-knit and emotions to a level to perform.

“At the moment, the grey area for every single element of the football club is not healthy,” he said.

Ferdinand then spoke on the effect the uncertainty is having on the players and although it shouldn’t be used an as excuse for poor performances, it will be playing a role in the dressing room mood.

“It is hard to say whether this squad can deal with stuff like this. You are demanding a lot from them. They are a team still trying to find out who they are – but I wouldn’t have any player being able to have the excuse. I’ve seen it, I’ve been there,” he said.

The six-time Premier League winner cited his time at the club with David Gill in charge of football operations as the model to follow for Ratcliffe and the Glazers, with Gill leaving the players in no doubt of the club’s aspirations.

“In my time, David Gill left us in no uncertain terms about the direction of the club and a clear, ‘This is the project’. We went through a lull when Jose Mourinho and Chelsea were dominating, as well as Arsenal and that was when my contract renegotiation was going on.

“People were courting me but I was absolutely clear and happy with the club’s aspirations. If there were any issues, you went to see him. Plain and simple. I don’t know if that’s going on at the club now,” said Rio.

There has yet to be any official communication from the club regarding Sir Jim’s investment but it’s expected to be made public in the coming weeks with the Glazer family in the final stages of discussions.

On the field, United’s huge week back after the international break continues with a must-win game against Copenhagen in the Champions League tonight (Tuesday) followed by the huge Manchester Derby at Old Trafford, on Sunday.

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United set to "abandon" transfers for Ten Hag's top two defensive targets - report

Manchester United are reportedly set to pull out of respective January deals for OGC Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo and Sporting Lisbon’s Goncalo Inacio.

United are on the hunt for defensive reinforcements and it’s easy to see why this is the case.

This season, Erik ten Hag has been forced to contend with multiple injuries to key players in the backline. Raphael Varane has been in and out of the team with different physical setbacks.

Lisandro Martinez who is currently recovering, may have played his last game of 2023 and is expected to return to action at the turn of the year.

Ten Hag’s problems have been compounded by the absences of Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Tottenham Hotspur loanee Sergio Reguilon has also been sidelined but is expected to be available for selection when United host FC Copenhagen later this evening in the Champions League.

A recent report covered by The Peoples Person indicated that Liverpool were trying to step up efforts to sign Inacio amidst interest from United.

With regards to Todibo, the Frenchman was a top target for the Red Devils all summer, but a move never materialized.

His arrival at Old Trafford was entirely contingent on Harry Maguire’s departure and when the Englishman’s proposed move to West Ham fell through, it became increasingly clear Todibo would not be added to Ten Hag’s ranks.

It was thought that United still retained an interest in the OGC Nice star but according to Football Insider, both he and Inacio are poised to become a non-issue for the 20-time English champions, at least during the winter transfer window.

“Man United have abandoned huge-money deals for centre-backs Goncalo Inacio and Jean-Clair Todibo ahead of the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.”

“It is believed the Red Devils have limited resources and are therefore unable to splash out in the mid-season window, meaning those deals now face a collapse.”

“A well-placed source has told Football Insider that Man United could now turn their attention to signing low-cost alternatives to their top targets – the likes of Todibo, Inacio and Guehi.”

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"He's made of the right stuff": Rio Ferdinand backs under-fire United man

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag made the huge decision to make a change to his number one goalkeeper this summer, ending David de Gea’s twelve-year stay at Old Trafford.

Andre Onana was signed from Inter Milan to replace the Spaniard and allow United to play in a way consistent with Ten Hag’s philosophy.

However, the 27-year-old has suffered a turbulent start to life in Manchester, looking less than assured and making some costly errors.

As reported by The Mirror, former United defender Rio Ferdinand has called on Onana’s teammates to help him through his sticky start and rally around him when a mistake happens.

“Those moments are about the experienced players making the new ones more confident. When they make a good save it’s about reassuring them, when they make a mistake, it’s about not berating them,” he said.

Ferdinand likened Onana’s situation to that of De Gea when he joined the club where the Spanish stopper also struggled to adapt to life as United’s number one.

The defender played in front of De Gea throughout his early struggles and says the current crop needs to ensure Onana feels he has their trust.

“There will be times when you have to berate someone like that but when you know someone was young and fragile, like David was, you’ve got to be clever around those situations.

“He wanted to feel his teammates had confidence. If your teammates have confidence in you, f*** what anyone else has said. That’s what the experienced players at Man United have to do now, rally around,” said Rio.

Ferdinand backed Onana to find his feet at United in the coming weeks, praising the ‘keeper’s attitude and pointing out his experience of big games during his career.

“He looks like a confident kid. I’ve spoken to him a couple of times and he seems confident. Mistakes are part of it. He understands that.

“But we have to remember that he’s not a goalkeeper who hasn’t had these moments before. He’s made mistakes and come back. He’s played for Inter Milan in a Champions League final, he’s played for Ajax in the Europa League final,” he said.

Ferdinand concluded by adding that he has spoken to staff at United who echo the confidence in the Cameroonian’s character and he expects to see the best of Onana very soon.

“He has the experience of making mistakes, rebuilding and going again. I think he can do that. He’s made of the right stuff. Speaking to the staff, they say forget about ability because you can tell he has the character for this,” he added.

Onana and United face a huge week ahead with tonight’s (Tuesday) must-win Champions League game against FC Copenhagen before the crunch Manchester Derby at Old Trafford on Sunday.

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Man City condemn "offensive" Sir Bobby Charlton chants and vow to punish guilty fans

Manchester City have vowed to take strict action against a section of their supporters who were singing offensive chants following the death of Manchester United and England icon Sir Bobby Charlton.

On Saturday, news broke that Sir Bobby had passed away at the age of 86.

His demise prompted the outpouring of tributes both from within United and from the larger football world, outlining just how big of a legacy the World Cup, European Cup and Ballon d’Or winner had left.

Man City boss Pep Guardiola was among the people who sent their messages of condolences to Sir Bobby’s family and his loved ones.

During the Premier League champions’ game against Brighton, offensive chants were heard in parts of the Etihad Stadium.

In response, Man City issued a statement condemning such actions while also vowing to bring punitive actions against those culpable.

Their statement read, “Manchester City FC are extremely disappointed to have learned of reports of offensive chanting from a small number of individuals about Sir Bobby Charlton in some of the concourses of Etihad Stadium during half-time of yesterday’s Premier League fixture against Brighton and Hove Albion.”

“The club condemns these chants in the strongest terms and apologises unreservedly to the family and friends of Sir Bobby, and to all those at Manchester United.”

“On this day of all days, when the stadium stood to pay tribute to our own legend in Francis Lee, Manchester City supporters should understand and appreciate as keenly as anyone the need for respect in our game.”

“Our security team are studying CCTV footage of the concourse areas. We are thankful to those who have already come forward to report this matter.”

“We continue to appeal for any information that can help us identify the individuals involved so that we can take the appropriate action to issue banning orders.”

United will host their neighbours at Old Trafford on October 29, in a high-stakes Manchester derby clash.

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Former Van Gaal favourite at United struggling for minutes in Polish league

Former Manchester United full-back Cameron Borthwick-Jackson is struggling for playing time with Polish club Slask Wroclaw after his career fell apart following his promising start to life at Old Trafford.

What makes the 26 year old’s fall from grace even more tragic is the fact that former Man United manager Louis van Gaal regarded him as a top rising talent in 2015 as he seemed poised to make his career breakthrough at Old Trafford.

Having graduated from United’s youth academy, Borthwick-Jackson quickly made it into Van Gaal’s radar in 2015 at a time when the Dutch manager was in need of more depth at the back.

“I have seen him once or twice and I have been impressed by him,” Van Gaal revealed, elaborating, “I needed a left full-back because Marcos Rojo had played a few games in a row, so I have to take into account that it might be too much.”

“I put Cameron in the line-up without any fear, and I have to say he did very well,” Van Gaal concluded, as per The Guardian.

The youngster also helped to fill in for first-choice left-back Luke Shaw, who was then recovering from a broken leg.

Borthwick-Jackson made his Man United debut in 2015 during a 2-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League.

After impressing in his cameo, the then-teenager played in nine more league matches, contributing one assist in a 3-0 win over Stoke City. (Transfermarkt)

He also made his Champions League debut, playing 47 minutes in a 3-2 loss to Wolfsburg while appearing in three FA Cup matches for United.

Despite impressing in his debut season, Borthwick-Jackson fell down the pecking order as the club’s regular starters returned from injury, being loaned out to Wolverhampton Wanderers shortly after.

Upon returning from his uneventful loan, the English full-back was loaned out once again a few months later to Leeds United, where his career took a more drastic downward turn.

At Leeds, Borthwick-Jackson made just one Championship appearance and was heavily criticised for his performance in an embarrassing 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Newport County.

This disappointing spell was followed by loan moves to Scunthorpe United, Tranmere Rovers, and Oldham Athletic, the latter of which signed him permanently on a free transfer.

Unfortunately, this is the case of a talented full-back with a decent crossing ability who never managed to reach the top of his game, as once he failed to make an impact at Oldham, he was sent to Burton Albion on another free transfer.

Borthwick-Jackson was signed by Polish club Slask Wroclaw this summer and has made just one, two-minute appearance in the Ekstraklasa off the bench to date this season.

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Bombshell: midfield general “regrets” joining United, club “not happy” with player - report

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro reportedly regrets making the move from Real Madrid to Old Trafford in the summer of 2022.

United forked out £70m to sign Casemiro from Los Blancos after their pursuit of Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong failed.

Casemiro had an incredible maiden season in England and was arguably the Red Devils’ player of the season, during a campaign in which the club finished in third place and won the Carabao Cup.

However this term, the Brazilian has demonstrated a sharp decline in his performances and there are already questions about his long-term suitability to Ten Hag’s plans.

A report covered by The Peoples Person revealed that incoming partial investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe questioned the shrewdness in signing Casemiro.

It was indicated that the INEOS billionaire pinpointed the 31-year-old’s recruitment as an example of United’s wastefulness in the market.

Despite scoring four goals, the player has been below par. He has been accused of frequently abandoning his position to go forward in search of goalscoring opportunities.

In addition to this, Casemiro seems to have developed a habit of recklessly diving into challenges and if evaded, render him completely out of the game.

The gritty and no-nonsense midfield displays that characterised his game last season are no longer present. At the moment, he is in Brazil recovering from an injury picked up during the international break.

He is expected to be back, just in time for the Manchester derby on October 29.

According to El Nacional, Casemiro harbours some regrets over his decision to leave Spain for United.

The Catalan publication states, “Old Trafford are not happy with the Brazil international, and the 31-year-old is also not proud of the decision he made just over 12 months ago.”

“He regrets having left Madrid to join a team where there is a worrying institutional instability, and the only title they have won has been the Carabao Cup.”

Apparently, another reason for Casemiro’s unhappiness at United is that his mistakes are being punished more than they were in Spain. He has picked up more red cards during his short spell with the 20-time English champions than he did during his entire team at the Santiago Bernabeu.

El Nacional states that the writing is on the wall for Casemiro, who is aware that his side are exploring the signing of his replacement – Benfica’s Joao Neves.

United are very interested in Neves and could swoop in for him in a year’s time.

Benfica want nothing less than €70m for Neves.

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