Ronaldo snubbed as unexpected winner of Players' Player of the Year announced

Manchester United players have this season voted goalkeeper David De Gea as the Players’ Player of the Year instead of Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo. The Spaniard enjoyed a renaissance of sorts this term on a personal level, pulling off quite a few great saves throughout the season.

However, due to the lackluster performance from the defensive unit as a whole this season, which saw the club finish with a goal difference of zero, it was widely accepted that Ronaldo would sweep home all individual accolades.

But the players decided that the former Atletico Madrid shot-stopper was more deserving considering how his form had wavered in the previous couple of campaigns.

THANKS ❤️ pic.twitter.com/BuxTs2W4vq

— David de Gea (@D_DeGea) June 3, 2022

“In what has been a tough campaign for our first team, the 31-year-old played every single minute of Premier League action and was regularly on hand to save his side,” the club’s website said.

The Spanish international collected a total of seven Man-of-the-Match awards during the course of the Premier League campaign, and also also earned the club’s Player-of-the-Month award for November, December and January.

This was De Gea’s fourth time winning this particular award, having won it three times back in 2013–14, 2014–15 and 2017–18.

Many people on social media questioned why Ronaldo did not claim the prize having single-handedly dragged his team to victory numerous times.

But the former U-21 European Championship winning skipper did manage to return to his previous level when it comes to shot-stopping and also kept Dean Henderson at bay, just when it looked like United’s reserve keeper would cement his place as the Red Devils’ new Number 1.

Despite the award, the goalie will be well aware of the challenges that lie ahead. His shot-stopping capability has never been in doubt, something he showcased throughout the season. But his inability to play out from the back and his refusal to come out from his line has not helped his team on numerous occasions.

New United manager Erik Ten Hag prefers a goalkeeper who is comfortable with the ball at his feet. The Dutchman will keep a keen eye on the Spaniard in his debut season.

Many pundits have pointed out Pep Guardiola’s treatment of Joe Hart and indicated that the United keeper could be axed in the same way.

United’s number 1 will not get the chance to rest on his laurels. Despite this award, the upcoming season might prove to be a make-or-break one for the Spaniard.

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Fabrizio Romano confirms two more United stars to be sold this summer

Manchester United are definitely going to offload two centre backs – Eric Bailly and Axel Tuanzebe – this summer.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claimed today that the decision has been made to let both players go, although unlike the recently announced departures of Juan Mata, Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard, the two defenders are still under contract.

This means that they will almost certainly be sold rather than released.

Both Eric Bailly and Axel Tuanzebe are set to leave Manchester United this summer – decision made. 🔴 #MUFC

Diogo Dalot’s expected to stay at Manchester United this summer, Aaron Wan-Bissaka has chances to leave waiting for new proposals – as reported yesterday ⤵️⌛️ https://t.co/jR5OIDxbay

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 3, 2022

Bailly’s deal runs for another two years but after a bright start to his United career he has hardly featured for the first team due to a series of injuries and the arrival last summer of Raphael Varane.

The talented Ivorian started only six games for the Red Devils in 2021/22.

Academy product Tuanzebe is another star who failed to fulfil his potential after an exciting start to his career.

He made his United debut in January 2017 aged just 18 and looked set to challenge for a regular first team place, but was unable to kick on in 2017/2018.

The England U21 international was then loaned out to Aston Villa, where he held down a regular first team place until a broken ankle saw him miss most of the second half of the season.

He then stayed at Old Trafford in 2019/20 but was dogged by a number of injuries that ruled him out for most of the season.

2020/21 saw better times including a man-of-the-match display against Paris Saint Germain at the Parc des Princes.

But the then manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer gave him few opportunities after that, preferring the Victor Lindelof/Harry Maguire partnership in defence.

This saw Tuanzebe return to Villa in 2021/22 but further injuries and poor form led to him being sidelined for much of the season.

The Congolese-born player has one year left on his United contract.

Romano also confirmed that United are planning to sell full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, as we reported here yesterday.

Another centre back, Phil Jones, is also widely tipped to leave as new boss Erik ten Hag continues his clearout.

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£50m windfall for Ten Hag as United get their business done early

Manchester United fans are hopeful of a change in approach from the club as a number of player departures have been announced, meaning a considerable reduction in the club’s wage bill as new manager Erik Ten Hag begins to rebuild a squad which delivered United’s lowest ever Premier League points total this season.

Recent years have seen fans express frustration at a club policy of retaining players on long term, big money contracts regardless of their contribution. For example, Phil Jones and Andreas Pereira both still have two years left to run on their contracts despite both rarely featuring in the last couple of seasons.

The first player departure to be confirmed was Nemanja Matic, with the Serbian midfielder confirming in April that he would be leaving the club after five years. Ahead of the final game of the season against Crystal Palace, interim manager Ralf Rangnick also confirmed that the trip to Selhurst Park would be forward Edinson Cavani’s last game at United.

Goalkeeper Lee Grant also announced last week that he was retiring from playing and has since taken up a coaching role with League One side Ipswich Town, where he will be working with former United coach Kieran McKenna. Those three departures alone accounted for £310,000 a week in terms of wages.

This has continued this week as United have confirmed a further three departures. On Wednesday morning, the club announced on Twitter that Paul Pogba would be leaving the club six years after returning from Juventus. Pogba was United’s third-highest earner on £290,000 a week, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo and David De Gea.

Later the same day it was announced that Jesse Lingard would also be leaving when his contract expires at the end of this month. Lingard, who is on £80,000 a week, is a lifelong Red himself and originally joined the club’s academy when he was seven years old. However he has found first team opportunities limited in recent times and spent a spell on loan at West Ham United last season.

On Wednesday morning, the anticipated departure of Spanish midfielder Juan Mata was also confirmed. Mata joined the club in January 2014 and despite also finding game time reduced recently, has remained a popular member of the squad with players and fans alike. Mata was on £135,000 a week.

In total, those six departures have led to £815,000 a week, or £39.12 million a year, being taken off the club’s wage bill. It looks as though that is not the end of the clearout either, with Fabrizio Romano tweeting that central defenders Eric Bailly and Axel Tuanzebe are also set to leave this summer, and while Diogo Dalot is expected to stay, there is still a possibility fellow full back Aaron Wan-Bissaka could also leave.

Bailly and Wan-Bissaka leaving would see another £170,000 a week off the wage bill, while there has also been speculation linking goalkeeper Dean Henderson with a move away from Old Trafford.

That would bring the total number of departures to 11, so incomings are expected, although the number of arrivals that will be sanctioned by new Chief Executive Officer Richard Arnold is unclear. Arnold is in his first transfer window in the role having replaced Ed Woodward.

There have also been other departures behind the scenes, leading to United fans hoping that lessons have been learned from the mistakes of recent years which have led to the club falling behind their rivals in the Premier League and now reaching five years without silverware, their worst such run since a six year drought between 1977 and 1983.

Life is rarely quiet for long in the world of Manchester United, but even by this club’s standards it is looking set to be a busy summer ahead of the 2022-23 season getting underway on 6 August.

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Manager sparks fan outrage saying player ‘can do a few things Cristiano cannot’

Manchester United superstar Cristiano Ronaldo had to make do with a second-half cameo as Portugal came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against Spain in their UEFA Nations League opener in Seville.

Fans were left perplexed with the decision as Twitter exploded. Portugal manager Fernando Santos was naturally quizzed on the reason behind not starting Portugal’s all-time leading goalscorer. He explained that the decision was purely tactical and that he believed the 37-year-old could make an impact off the bench.

“It was a technical and tactical option for this game. It seemed to us the best solution. For the way we wanted to play and approach the game. It has nothing to do with Cristiano’s quality, that’s not even in question,” the 67-year-old said after the game.

“There are moments in the game when you have to think in a different way. We believed that in the second half he could come in and solve the game.”

Andre Silva was selected as starter and Santos added that in his opinion the RB Leipzig striker was more adept at a few things as compared to the United star.

“For this game, I thought it was important to have a player like Andre Silva starting. He is hard-working, closes in-behind, he can do a few things that Cristiano Ronaldo cannot do the same way,” the former defender remarked.

This comment will now further add fuel to the fire regarding Ronaldo’s lack of pressing from the front. This has been a major bone of contention among pundits in England, many of whom have asked new Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag to be ruthless with regards to the former Real Madrid man. Even interim manager Ralf Rangnick had also pointed out the same issue recently.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was introduced just after the hour mark but it was fellow substitute Ricardo Horta who struck late on to help the 2016 Euro champions snatch a point from a game they had very little control over.

CR7 entre, le Portugal égalise
⚽️ Ricardo Horta! 🇵🇹#NationsLeague | #ESPPOR pic.twitter.com/WjGhRZJRmp

— UEFA Nations League 🇫🇷 (@EURO2024FRA) June 2, 2022

Alvaro Morata had given Spain the lead and they should have grabbed all three points from a game they completely dominated.

The former Real Madrid star enjoyed a fine personal season back in the Premier League. He scored 18 times in the league for Manchester United and 24 in all competitions but also missed a few games due to a recurring hip issue.

The five-time Champions League winner was not part of the final matchday squad as well and that might have been one of the reasons behind Santos’ decision. He is well aware that resting Portugal’s record cap holder here and there will ensure Ronaldo will be chomping at the bit to make his mark.

A fully-fit and raring to go Ronaldo is a scary proposition and something that will definitely help Portugal make it out of a tricky group which has the likes of Iberian rivals Spain as well as Switzerland and Czech Republic. Portugal next play Switzerland on Sunday while Spain travel to Prague to face the Czech Republic.

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United issues clear update on future for young midfielder after impressive loan

Manchester United have decided to trigger the one-year extension option in Dylan Levitt’s contract after an impressive season on loan.

The midfielder has spent the entire season with Dundee United playing in the top tier of the Scottish division.

After a couple of disappointing loans beforehand, it looked like a great deal for all parties once he started to become a regular for his current side.

He went on to become one of the most important players for the the Terrors and managed to score six goals in 29 appearances throughout all competitions.

The 21-year-old had two unsuccessful loans in previous seasons at League One’s Charlton Athletic and Croatian side Istra 1961.

The Manchester Evening News reports that the final decision has been made with United opting to extend Levitt’s contract by a further year.

His future is currently unknown, with United likely to loan him out again before both parties decide whether or not to renew his contract.

Levitt has also had an opportunity to break into international football and has made regular appearances for Wales.

The Welshman joined the Red Devils aged eight and went on to make his first-team debut in 2019.

He started the Europa League match away to Astana where the Reds lost 2-1 after a disappointing match for a young United side.

The MEN concludes by mentioning that during the summer, Levitt will work through a devised fitness plan so he can return in the best possible form to pre-season training.

He will be eager to play regular minutes to help reach his next level after recent experiences throughout the past couple of seasons.

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Frenkie de Jong to Man Utd: this shocking news from Spain will change everything

News from Spain this morning that Barcelona’s financial problems have reached crisis proportions will be music to Manchester United fans’ ears.

In an article headed ‘Red alert in the treasury’, AS reveals that the Catalan club do not have the money in the bank to pay the players their wages for this month.

According to the outlet, the club will have to borrow the cash and are set to approach the players once again and ask them to take big pay cuts to help resolve the situation.

It also means that the Blaugrana will be forced to sell stars such as United target Frenkie de Jong or he, too, will be forced to take a pay cut.

“Again, Busquets, Piqué, Alba and Ter Stegen will be asked for a salary reduction,” AS reports.

“Sergi Roberto’s reduction is taken for granted in his renewal and it would only be considered for Frenkie de Jong and Lenglet if they stay at the club, because in fact they are on the market.”

Barça’s misfortunes are to United’s advantage in two ways.

First, it puts pressure on the club to sell De Jong urgently, which strengthens United’s hand in a negotiation where the two sides are currently £22.4 million apart in their valuations of the player.

Second, it will encourage the Dutchman to seek pastures new even though he publicly said he does not want to leave the Camp Neu earlier this week.

The 25 year old’s current salary is one of the highest at the club, believed to be €307,000 (around £260,000) per week (source: capology.com). A ‘leave, or see that figure slashed’ ultimatum from the Blaugrana could allow United to take advantage without breaking the bank themselves.

Another former United target, Ousmane Dembele, is also set to leave the leave the club at the end of the month as his contract expires.

Reportedly earning €384,000 (£327,000) per week, Dembele was asked to take a pay cut to get a new deal and refused.

It is unclear whether United will still be interested in his services at this stage, having been rebuffed in 2020.

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Video: Pellistri shows unbelievable skill as he assists Cavani for Uruguay

Two Manchester United players combined brilliantly late last night as Uruguay beat Mexico 3-0 in a friendly in Arizona.

The outgoing Edinson Cavani scored a magnificent brace inside the first eight minutes of the second half after Matias Vecino had opened the lead in the 35th minute.

Edinson Cavani displayed his class against Mexico, scoring a brace within 8 minutes in Uruguay 3-0 win.

He’s 35-year-old. pic.twitter.com/0RXEWtMqq8

— Wirjil (@Wirjil) June 3, 2022

Cavani’s first came after brilliant work on the right wing from young United star, Facundo Pellistri.

🎥 Facundo Pellistri's assist for Edinson Cavani's first goal in Uruguay's game against Mexico ⚽🔴🇺🇾✨pic.twitter.com/uB3kZ2d9Ls

— United Journal (@theutdjournal) June 3, 2022

Collecting the ball almost immediately after the second half kick-off, the 20-year-old performed a skill move to leave two Mexican defenders floundering before taking it down the wing at pace and crossing for Cavani to slot it coolly home.

At club level, it has been a difficult year for Pellistri, who spent the season on loan at Spanish side Deportivo Alaves.

The former Peñarol man managed just 23 appearances over the course of last season, averaging just 32 minutes on the pitch in those games.

However, his performances for United in the 2021/22 preseason, which he capped with a goal against Derby County, and for his national side have been more promising.

United paid €8.5 million for the winger in October 2020 as part of a double swoop of young wingers when a deal to sign Jadon Sancho failed to materialise. Amad Diallo was the other purchase at that time.

Incoming manager Erik ten Hag has promised he will give all players a chance to impress him during the summer before deciding whether they will be a part of his squad or go out on loan.

With more performances such as last night’s, Pellistri could emerge as a surprise candidate to nail down the right wing berth next season.

The post Facundo Pellistri sets up Edinson Cavani for Uruguay’s ‘Made in Manchester’ goal appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Brilliant United midfield star nominated for prestigious PFA award

One of Manchester United women’s star players this season, Ella Toone, has been nominated for the PFA Women’s young player of the year award.

Our number seven 😍@EllaToone99 is in the running to win the @PFA Young Player of the Year award 🎖🔥#MUWomen | #PFAawards pic.twitter.com/ISOpA23OCf

— Manchester United Women (@ManUtdWomen) June 1, 2022

Toone is one of six WSL players who have received nominations with former United striker, Lauren James, also shortlisted.

22-year-old Toone played a part in every single one of United’s 22 games in this season’s campaign, which saw the Reds finish in a respectable fourth place.

She bagged seven goals and eight assists throughout the season, no other player in the league racked up more assists than the United youngster.

As well as assisting United in their successful campaign, Toone reached some personal milestones too, becoming the club’s highest goal scorer and being the first to reach 100 appearances for the club.

It’s not the first time Toone’s impressive season has been recognised as she was recently nominated for the league’s PFA Vertu Motors Fans’ Player of the Year and the WSL’s Player of the Season awards.

However, Toone faces stiff competition as Manchester City’s Lauren Hemp, who scored 16 goals in the campaign, is also nominated.

Hemp won the award last season and was a key player as City fought back from a tough opening to the season to finish third.

Arsenal’s Frida Maanum is also nominated. Her side finished second in the WSL in what was a tense title race with Chelsea.

Tottenham’s Jessica Naz and Brighton’s Le Tissier conclude the shortlist.

Next month, Toone will look to continue her brilliant run of form as she is part of the England squad at the Euros.

Favoured by The Lionesses manager Sarina Wiegman, Toone has enjoyed a lot of game time for England and has already scored two hat tricks for her country.

The winner of the PFA Young Player of the Year will be announced on June 9th in a ceremony broadcast on their social media channels.

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United could hijack Liverpool transfer of exciting €40m Portuguese star

Manchester United’s new manager Erik Ten Hag has identified centre back as a problem position for the club after the English giants ended the season with a goal difference of zero. The English club have stepped up their interest in S.C. Braga defender David Carmo.

The former Ajax coach’s preferred choice is fellow countryman Jurrien Timber who can also double up as a right-back. But in case the deal does not happen, the club are also in negotiations with the Primeira Liga club for the left-footed defender, according to the Manchester Evening News. United have already held two rounds of discussions with the player’s representatives.

The 22-year-old is a physically imposing defender, standing at an impressive height of 6 ft 5 in and he received his first national team call-up last week.

After coming back from a disastrous ankle injury, the former Benfica youth product has gone from strength to strength and has attracted interest from the likes of Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur with his no nonsense style of defending.

His physicality would also be well suited to the Premier League and being a natural left-footed defender is another bonus with the Red Devils currently without a left-footed centre back since they sold Marcos Rojo.

Rodgers is a fan ✅ #MUFChttps://t.co/DUi1nvjb8H

— Man United News (@ManUtdMEN) June 2, 2022

Erik Ten Hag is well aware of his new side’s defensive frailties. Harry Maguire, Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof all had poor seasons.

Outgoings are also expected with Eric Bailly, Phil Jones and academy graduate Axel Tuanzebe likely to leave the club this summer. So defensive additions will be required.

Timber would be the ideal signing, having already played under Ten Hag in Ajax. But the Premier League is a different beast altogether and receiving a starting berth automatically is not how things will work. In a World Cup year, it will be imperative that the Dutch star gets regular playing time.

“You can go to a big club. But if you’re not going to play there it’s better to stay with Ajax. And Ajax is also a big club. We play football in the Champions League and I play there together with the best players in the Netherlands. That is not nothing,” Timber had said.

The English giants also have a long-standing interest in Villareal defender Pau Torres. But with no Champions League to offer, such a deal looks unlikely at the moment.

Keeping these factors in mind, a move for the Portugal U-20 international makes sense. Carmo would possibly be a much cheaper alternative to Torres and he also has the experience of playing in the Europa League, featuring against the likes of Leicester City and Rangers. He currently has a release clause of €40m million but he could come for much less.

He might not be the finished product, but Ten Hag has shown the ability to nurture talent and Carmo might just prove to be a masterstroke of an acquisition if the deal does happen. It also makes sense for the English giants to keep alternatives ready at this stage.

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Ten Hag causes shockwaves by offering forgotten star Man United lifeline

It seems like Andreas Pereira‘s time at Manchester United might not be up after all. The academy graduate, who was out on loan at Flamengo back in his homeland, is set to be offered a chance to stake his claim as a member of the new-look squad by manager Erik Ten Hag.

The Brazil international last played for the English club back in 2020 and since then has spent time out on loan at Italian club Lazio as well as Flamengo. The Brazilian club had agreed a €10.5 million transfer fee with United for the 26-year-old and it looked like the midfielder’s time as a Red Devil was drawing to a close.

But now it looks like the deal has collapsed and Andreas is heading back to England with Yahoo Brasil reporting that Manchester United’s football director John Murtough has contacted Andreas to let him know that he ‘fits the desired squad profile’ for next season.

Ten Hag had already mentioned how he wants to assess all players before taking a decision. The midfield situation at the 20-time English champions is quite complicated at the moment. Already the club has bid farewell to the likes of Paul Pogba, Nemanja Matic, Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard.

Thank you for everything, @JuanMata8 — you'll be missed 🔴#MUFC

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 2, 2022

The club does not have too much cover in that position with only Fred and Scott Mctominay among the players who have considerable Premier League experience.

Talented youngsters like Hannibal Mejbri and and James Garner are knocking on the door as well but they lack experience at the highest level.

The three-time European champions are searching for midfield reinforcements with Frenkie de Jong and N’Golo Kante among the club’s top targets. However, these deals will be easier said than done with the club not playing in the elite European competition.

Andreas fits the bill as he has racked up 75 appearances for United and knows what it is like to play in the Premier League as well as the Europa League. He also has a year left on his contract with United having the option to extend it further by another year.

With no suitors currently lining up for his signature, both parties might just benefit from another year at Old Trafford.

Another thing which might work in the former PSV Eindhoven youth product’s favour is his versatility. He can play in a number of positions including defensive midfield, further forward as well as out on the wings.

His penchant for performing during pre-season might also sway things in his favour!

If midfield deals fall through at the last moment, Andreas might well get another lease of life as a Red Devil.

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It's official: United announce Spanish star is leaving club

Juan Mata has officially left Manchester United.

The club tweeted a farewell message at 10am this morning.

Thank you for everything, @JuanMata8 — you'll be missed 🔴#MUFC

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 2, 2022

The Spaniard, who famously flew in on a helicopter to join United from rivals Chelsea in January 2014, enjoyed eight years at Old Trafford.

He played 285 games for the club, scoring 51 goals and registering 47 assists.

Many fans have been frustrated that he was kept on at Old Trafford beyond his useful life, while others argued that he has been underused by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick and still has a lot to offer.

The pace may not have been there in recent seasons,but the football brain, professionalism and ability to glide around the pitch effortlessly connecting play and creating space has not diminished.

The Spaniard is a real football aficionado’s player, vastly underrated, and would have had far more than his 41 caps for Spain had he not had the misfortune to be born in the same era as the great Andres Iniesta.

Mata has won almost every honour imaginable, including the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012 with Spain, the 2012 Champions League with Chelsea, two Europa Leagues, two FA Cups and the League Cup.

The 34-year-old has stated that he wants to continue playing football and is not ready to take up a coaching role.

A statement on the club website this morning read:

“Thank you for dedicating eight years of your career to United, Juan. Everyone at the club wishes you all the best for the future.”

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Official: Man United confirm Lingard's departure

Jesse Lingard is set to leave Manchester United this summer.

The club have released a statement on their official website.

“An Academy graduate and dyed-in-the-wool Red, Jesse has been with United for over 20 years, having originally joined our Under-9s team in 2001.”

“Following various loan spells in the Championship, Jesse made his United debut under Louis van Gaal in 2014 and became a regular presence in the first team the following season.”

“He scored six goals in 40 appearances across all competitions during that 2015/16 campaign, including a stunning extra-time winner at Wembley as United came from behind to beat Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final and seal a 12th triumph in the competition.”

“We’d like to take this opportunity to thank Jesse for all of the memories he’s helped create during his two decades here and wish him the best of luck in his future career.”

Lingard’s departure was one that many United fans expected.

The club has failed to manage a player’s contract yet again and is forced to let Lingard leave for free.

He was denied a summer move to West Ham United on the promise that he would get regular playing time at Man Utd.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer however, used him sparingly and hardly started him in games.

Relations between the player and the club worsened when Lingard’s brother took to social media to dig at United for giving Jesse a poor send-off in his final match at Old Trafford.

It is a sad end for Lingard at United, especially when many thought his career would take off in 2018.

It is yet unknown where he will move next, with a possible return to West Ham certainly not ruled out.

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This United’s star’s wonder goal better than Thiago strike according to UEFA panel

Manchester United might have been knocked out in the Round of 16 stage of the Champions League but left back Alex Telles‘ equalising goal against Spanish side Villareal in the group stages was selected among the top 10 goals of the tournament.

The volley from just outside the box eventually finished sixth, with Karim Benzema’s thunderous header against Chelsea ultimately bagging top honours. However, it was the best goal scored by an English club in this year’s competition.

🎯 @AT13Oficial's special effort v Villarreal has earned him a nomination for the #UCLGOTT 🇧🇷#MUFC | #UCL

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 31, 2022

Liverpool’s Thiago Alcantara was also nominated for his goal against Porto but his strike finished in tenth place.

The former Porto man was also the only defender to make the list.

Telles’ goal was significant as United were trailing by two goals at home at that stage and the strike helped the Red Devils stage another memorable comeback and ultimately claim a 2-1 victory against a side who had got the better of the English giants in last season’s Europa League final.

It was memorable for the Brazilian as well as it was his first goal for the club since signing from Porto back in the 2020-21 season.

The goal was a thing of beauty, with Bruno Fernandes floating a ball towards thew edge of the box from a corner. The Villareal defenders were busy marking inside the box and no one bothered to spot the defender who was lurking just outside the box.

The Brazilian met the ball sweetly with his left peg as it went through a crowd of players and nestled in the back of the net to give the English giants a lifeline back into the contest.

Telles had spoken to ManUtd.com after the memorable encounter and said, “That was one of the most beautiful moments of my career, it’s a moment I will never forget.

“Firstly, because I was playing in a Champions League match for Manchester United and secondly scoring a goal in that context.”

Telles’ strike against the Yellow Submarines has also made it to Manchester United’s goal of the season shortlist.

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Man Utd accelerate structural rebuild with key staff appointment

Manchester United have appointed Andy O’ Boyle as their new Deputy Director of Football.

The announcement was made yesterday afternoon on the club’s official website.

United’s Director Of Football John Murtough stated:

“We are delighted to welcome Andy back to Manchester United to take up this important role in the club’s leadership.”

“Andy has experience across all technical areas of football, from fitness and sports science to scouting and recruitment.”

“This will make him a valuable addition to my team at Carrington as we continue to strengthen leadership and strategic planning across all our football activities.”

O’ Boyle left his role as Head of Elite Performance at the Premier League to join Man Utd.

He left United 16 years ago and went on to work with Wrexham, Coventry, Liverpool and the England Under 21s before taking over in the Premier League.

At United, he is expected to be working directly under Murtough.

After Ralf Rangnick’s departure, it made sense for United to appoint someone in that vacant consultancy role.

In O’ Boyle, they have an experienced candidate, capable of analysing and advising on player recruitment and sports science.

This is another significant step taken by the United Board towards the total modernisation of the club. Fans will be hoping that these gradual structural changes bear fruit in the coming years.

O’ Boyle spoke on his return to United:

“I am thrilled to be rejoining Manchester United at such an exciting time for the club, as the first team prepares for a fresh start under Erik ten Hag, and the Academy and women’s teams go from strength to strength.”

“Whilst it has been a privilege to serve the Premier League for the past five years, I can’t wait to get started at United and play my part in creating the right environment for football success.”

 

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Man United target highlights key factor dictating transfer decision

Manchester United’s defensive target Jurrien Timber has opened up on his future.

In an exclusive interview with De Telegraaf, Timber hinted at a possible contract extension and admitted that he is happy to develop at his current club.

He stated:  “I am now focusing on the upcoming international matches and then go on holiday.”

“Then I’ll have to think about it some more.”

“The picture has to be right. You can go to a big club. But if you’re not going to play there, it’s better to stay with Ajax.”

“And Ajax is also a big club. We play football in the Champions League and I play there together with the best players in the Netherlands. That is not nothing.”

“I still don’t really realize it.”

“It’s not finished yet, now I’m focusing on Orange again. Looking back will come later, probably during my vacation.”

Ten Hag reportedly wants a reunion with his former player and has urged United to complete this transfer.

Manchester Evening News reported today that Timber is one of United’s priority defensive targets along with SC Braga’s David Carmo.

Timber is a versatile player, capable of playing as a centre back and a right back.

He is excellent on the ball and would fit in perfectly with Ten Hag’s style of play at Man Utd.

 

 

 

 

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It's official: United confirm Paul Pogba has left the club

Paul Pogba has officially left Manchester United, the club has confirmed.

United announced the news by means of a video on the official website, entitled ‘The Reds bid Farewell to Pogba’ with a montage of clips of his finest moments in a red shirt.

The club also tweeted a goodbye message, saying “Once a Red, always a Red.

“Thank you for your service, @PaulPogba”

Once a Red, always a Red 🔴

Thank you for your service, @PaulPogba 👏#MUFC

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 1, 2022

The news will come as no surprise to fans who have heard the midfielder’s name being linked with moves to Juventus and Paris Saint Germain recently.

The Italians believe they are close to winning the race for the Frenchman’s signature.

Calciomercato.com reports that “From Paris there are increasingly clear signs that PSG would like to withdraw from the race for Paul Pogba, who is not particularly appreciated by the new transfer man Luis Campos.

“Indeed, in France there is also an attempt to explain how in reality PSG was never really interested in Pogba.

“Contacts with Rafaela Pimenta continue, intensify, there are details to be completed on the contract. As regards the technical aspect, everything is clear in Pogba’s head after the direct dialogues with Pavel Nedved and Max Allegri.

“The salary spoken of is €8 million net plus bonuses. Together with Matthijs de Ligt he will be the highest paid at Juve.”

With Pogba having already turned down Manchester City, PSG pulling out and Real Madrid now focussing their attentions on fellow Frenchman Aurelien Tchouameni, Juventus appear to be the last man standing in the race to sign the former United academy star.

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Ten Hag eyes audacious raid on PL rivals’ unsettled midfield star

Manchester United are monitoring Mason Mount’s contract situation at Chelsea as Erik ten Hag looks to bring new midfielders into the club.

It may be that the squad needs to sell some of the midfielders in order to bring in a world-class replacement.

Failing to secure Champions League qualifications will hinder the chances of bringing in a sensational midfielder.

However, United are looking to take advantage of Barcelona’s issues and are trying to secure the transfer of Frenkie de Jong.

Alternative targets are also in mind, just in case the Red Devils fail in their pursuit of the world-class Dutch international.

According to The Sun, new boss Erik Ten Hag is watching Mount in what would be considered a shock move.

United have a track record of signing midfielders from the London-based club, but they have usually only secured a deal after the player is over his prime.

Ten Hag will be very familiar with the Englishman after facing him a few times while he was on loan at Dutch club Vitesse Arnheim during his breakthrough days.

The Sun reports that Man City and Liverpool have made discreet enquiries about the Chelsea academy graduate.

The 23-year-old’s contract expires in June 2024 but this could see many more clubs register interest in trying to convince him to join.

In a recent interview, Mount hinted that he will be staying with the Blues next season as he looks forward to the new ownership.

“It’s an exciting time now with the owners being confirmed, going forward it’s going to be exciting,” he said.

“The era under Roman [Abramovich] has been brilliant, now we look forward. It’s exciting stuff, can’t wait to get back to it.”

United will continue to monitor the situation but as of now, it is extremely unlikely that the midfielder will leave his club anytime soon.

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United on high alert as top midfielder leaves German giants as free agent

Manchester United have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Corentin Tolisso, who is set to leave Bayern Munich on a free transfer this summer.

It was recently announced by the German club that the central midfielder will be departing once his contract expires at the end of June.

Naturally, with any free transfer, a number of clubs will become interested in trying to capture the signature of that player.

According to The Sun, Arsenal and Man United both remain heavily interested in signing the central midfielder after previously being rumoured to try to land the player in January.

Erik ten Hag will be looking to bolster his options within the squad with a complete overhaul expected in the midfield department.

Frenkie de Jong has been rumoured as a top target to replace Paul Pogba in this upcoming transfer window.

Signing Tolisso will be seen as an excellent piece of business from the United transfer department as they need to make amends after allowing the Frenchman and Jesse Lingard to leave on a free transfer.

Both teams linked with Tolisso missed out on Champions League qualification, which will instantly put them at a disadvantage considering the German’s club success in that competition in recent years.

The outlet reports that United continue to scout more potential additions to the squad with a new midfielder being the priority of the window.

James Ward-Prowse and Ruben Neves could be alternative options if the De Jong deal doesn’t progress.

A new defender is also highly anticipated on the list of transfers this summer from the club.

Jurrien Timber has been heavily linked with the club in recent weeks and talks could be at an advanced stage.

The summer transfer window will open on June 10 2022 but free transfers won’t be able to join until their contract expires on the final day of the month.

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Fans will be ecstatic as United midfield target admits he is likely to leave club

Manchester United have been handed a boost in their long-term pursuit of Portuguese star Ruben Neves after a Wolves director admitted that they might have to sell the player.

However, it would appear that the Red Devils will face some stiff opposition for the 25 year old’s signature.

There have been reports of United’s interest over several transfer windows and Neves would be a popular choice with the fans, who have repeatedly called for the club to sign him. But the board have to date not pushed too hard, with Wolves also playing hardball, either pricing the player out of a move or refusing to negotiate completely.

But in an apparent softening of their stance, the club’s technical director Scott Sellars said this week (via The Mirror) “I think he has shown how happy he is here and that is something we as a club know as well.

“The ideal situation is that we want him to stay. I’ve spoken to him about it, but I am also realistic that when you have an outstanding player, the top clubs are going to come and see what the situation is. It will be discussed what is right for the club and certainly is something we will look at.”

Neves himself also hinted he could be on the move, saying after the last match of the season against Liverpool “If I go it would be really hard for me and my family.

“But, as I told you, we have dreams to live in a short space of time. And if anything happens, that’s why I was so emotional the last game at home because I don’t know how it’s going to be. If it was my last game it was really important.”

United are known to be prioritising central midfield signings this summer, with both Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic set to leave the club. This leaves just Scott McTominay, Fred and James Garner as options in the deeper midfield positions.

Neves would be a popular choice, but he has also been heavily linked with Arsenal and now Barcelona have thrown their hat into the ring.

According to Catalan outfit Sport, the Blaugrana have admitted defeat in their pursuit of Aurelien Tchouameni and have now turned their attentions to the Portuguese international.

“For the position of midfielder [head coach Xavi] has contacted Rúben Neves, the footballer chosen to compete with Sergio Busquets in the engine room.

“Neves is enthusiastic about joining the project and he knows what Xavi wants from him.”

Interestingly, United are also being heavily linked with a Barcelona midfielder, Frenkie de Jong. Whilst the pair are not like-for-like players, if Neves were to join Barça it would more than likely mean that they are more willing to part ways with the Dutchman, and conversely, if De Jong stays at the Camp Neu, the struggling Catalans may not have the funds to also compete for Neves.

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Encouragement for United as De Jong explains his Barcelona comments

Frenkie de Jong’s comment in an interview that he would prefer to stay at Barcelona has made the headlines in the last 24 hours but it is unlikely to be the end of the story in terms of a transfer to Manchester United.

The Dutch midfielder is reportedly one of Erik ten Hag’s top targets. The pair worked together at Ajax in the highly entertaining and successful 2018/2019 campaign that saw the Amsterdam outfit reach the semi-finals of the Champions League.

De Jong played alongside another United star, Donny van de Beek, in that same side, making his transfer seem like an ideal option for the Red Devils, who are set to lose both Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic from their midfield roster this month.

Barcelona would seemingly be willing to part with the star if the price was right – reportedly around €75 million (£63.8m) – due to their ongoing financial woes.

However, in an interview with ESPN yesterday, De Jong appeared to close the door on the move, saying “I prefer to stay with Barcelona.”

“Barcelona is just my dream club. Also from a young age. I just said it too. I’ve never regretted my choice despite the fact that I had hoped for more in terms of prizes than I’ve achieved so far. But I have never regretted my choice.”

On the surface, this would appear to be De Jong making a clear decision. But then the 25 year old continues:

“What I’m saying, there is absolutely nothing of an agreement or anything official. At the moment there is no question of it at all.

“Not that I know of in any case. Or they must not have told me, but I don’t think so.”

This statement has a very different feel to it.

The history of major football transfers is littered with quotes from players saying they are happy at their current club and do not want to leave, only for them to sign for the pursuing club shortly after.

Players are mindful of not alienating the home fans by appearing to want out, in case the transfer doesn’t materialise. They can also say they don’t want to leave as a bargaining tool to try to get a better deal from the buying club.

The second part of the statement can only be taken as encouragement by United, who are reported to be prioritising the position in this summer’s window.

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