United confirm Rashford's absence from matchday squad vs. Newport amid clubbing fiasco

Manchester United have confirmed that forward Marcus Rashford will not be included in the matchday squad to face League Two outfit Newport County due to illness.

In recent days, Rashford has found himself at the centre of criticism and controversy after he reportedly told the club that he would miss a Friday training session due to illness, only for pictures to emerge suggesting he was out clubbing in Belfast the night before.

Initially, it was thought that Rashford was only out partying on Wednesday, hours before the team had a day off on Thursday.

However, it subsequently emerged that the England international was out both on Wednesday and Thursday night, including hours before a training session at Carrington on Friday.

The matter was made even worse after it was pointed out that Rashford phoned the club to explain that he was ill and unable to report to training – an unflattering picture for the 26-year-old, who has been struggling for form this season.

As United prepare to make their way to Rodney Parade to take on County in a crucial FA Cup fourth-round clash, the Red Devils have issued a statement explaining that Rashford will not be available for selection due to “illness.”

The club’s statement reads, “Marcus Rashford not well enough to be in the squad for Newport following illness.”

“He has stayed at Carrington to train as he recovers.”

#MUFC: “Marcus Rashford not well enough to be in the squad for Newport following illness; he has stayed at Carrington to train as he recovers.”

More @TheAthleticFC

— Laurie Whitwell (@lauriewhitwell) January 28, 2024

Despite the club indicating that the reason for Rashford’s absence is illness, this will do little to abate suspicions that there is a wider disciplinary issue that may need to be addressed.

Since his arrival at Old Trafford, Erik ten Hag has been ruthless in cracking the whip on poor professionalism and bad behaviour.

Already, the Dutchman clashed heads with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho – both players are no longer at United currently.

It will be interesting to see what approach Ten Hag adopts with regard to Rashford.

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Surprise inclusions and omissions as United’s travelling squad to Newport caught on camera

Photographs have emerged of Manchester United’s squad as they arrived for a flight to south Wales for their FA Cup clash against Newport County this afternoon, revealing some surprise inclusions.

The Manchester Evening News have released an article in which they included photographs of several members of the travelling squad, with some notable returns and exclusions.

Harry Maguire

Among those returning from injury is centre-back Harry Maguire.

It was reported earlier in the week that Maguire had returned to first-team training after being sidelined in December due to a groin injury incurred in the 2-1 win over Chelsea.

Luke Shaw also returned to training and has been mentioned in the MEN article as being a part of the travelling squad despite not being pictured.

Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro

Alongside Diogo Dalot, both Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro were photographed.

Martinez returned during the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur after being sidelined for most of the season due to undergoing metatarsal surgery, while Casemiro was included on the bench.

Both players reportedly played at least 45 minutes in a closed-door friendly against Burnley, as did Maguire.

Amad Diallo and Kobbie Mainoo

Pictured together were youngsters Diallo and Mainoo.

Following an impactful loan at Sunderland, the 21 year old Diallo has continued to impress at his parent club, coming on in the second half of United’s loss to Nottingham Forest.

Erik ten Hag later praised Diallo, declaring: “Yeah, he is very ball secure. He can bring a key actions, final passes, score a goal. And so I think he has some weapons. That is always what you are looking for with offensive players.”

Mainoo has proven to be highly impactful in his central midfield role, with John Barnes revealing how impressed he is with the 18 year old’s performances this season.

Rasmus Hojlund

Following a brief injury absence, United’s main striker showed further signs of improvement as he fired United into the lead during their 2-2 draw with Spurs earlier this month.

He’ll be hoping to extend his goal-scoring streak against Newport tonight, with the Dane also pictured en route to Wales.

Antony

While Antony has largely become a pariah in recent times, with numerous transfer rumours emerging, he’ll be hoping to make an impactful performance in order to have any hope of restoring good faith with the United fanbase.

Missing: Marcus Rashford

One player who has been at the centre of controversy who was not photographed was Marcus Rashford.

While believed to be “ill” on Friday, a video has emerged of the 26 year old out on the town in Belfast on Thursday night.

Rashford out in thompsons last night in Belfast clearly not helping himself with regards to performance pic.twitter.com/1THyoqT3YL

— Ryan (@RE1878) January 26, 2024

Whether or not the England international will be included in United’s FA Cup tie tonight remains to be seen.

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David de Gea finally poised to join new club, could be seeing some familiar faces - report

Former Manchester United keeper, David de Gea, could have finally found a new club after a nine-month sabbatical.

This is according to The Daily Mail, who claim that “former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea is in talks to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Shabab”.

There has been much written on why the Spaniard, at still only 33 years old, has not been able to agree a deal with a new club. The player has reportedly turned down numerous offers from England, Spain and further afield.

The keeper also reportedly turned down Inter Milan in the summer to be Andre Onana’s replacement at the Champions League finalists.

It has been reported that the goalkeeper has been unwilling to lower his wage demands of £375,000 a week, what he was earning at Old Trafford.

This remains by far the highest salary paid to any goalkeeper in the world, eclipsing the amounts paid to the next highest, Jan Oblak at Atletico Madrid (£305,000) and Bayern Munich’s Manuel Neuer (£280,000 per week) (source of figures salarysport.com).

Hence, very few clubs have been willing or able to eclipse or even match De Gea’s salary.

It was thought that the player might fancy going to the MLS and America, as it would appeal to his celebrity wife’s career, but that does not seem the case any more.

Moreover, the Spaniard was linked to fellow Saudi club, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in November but nothing came from the rumours.

Al-Shabab might fancy their chances though as De Gea’s options don’t seem to be expanding. The Middle Eastern side have already agreed a deal to bring in Ivan Rakitic and have been linked to make a move for Newcastle’s Miguel Almiron.

If De Gea is to join the Saudi side, he will have his work cut out.

“The team currently sit 11th in the Saudi top flight, having won just one of their last seven league games prior to the winter break”.

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"New sense of impetus": INEOS feel-good factor sweeping through Old Trafford

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is being credited with positively shifting the mood around Old Trafford since his partial takeover was announced.

This is according to The Daily Mirror, who claim “Sir Jim Ratcliffe has only been to Manchester United’s training ground a couple of times but there has already been a change in the mood”.

INEOS gave United fans an early Christmas present when it was announced on Christmas Eve that they had completed a deal to buy 25% of the club.

While the club awaits ratification of the deal from the Premier League next month, it has also been reported that INEOS’ remit will extend beyond football matters, taking more direct control away from the Glazers.

The Mirror claim that this feel-good factor has also extended to the players.

“United players are enjoying training, insisting the sessions this week have never been better and the changes at the club have ‘put everyone on their toes'”.

“Ratcliffe has spoken to the players but did not read the riot act – it was more informal talks – but there is a new sense of impetus, drive and the atmosphere at Carrington is good. His lieutenant Dave Brailsford has also given a speech to the club’s football staff making it clear that they expect high standards – and it will be tough to get where they want to go”.

It has already been relayed here that both Ratcliffe and Brailsford left a very positive impression on staff when they met with them a few weeks ago.

United have only played twice in January, an FA Cup tie against Wigan and the Premier League clash against Tottenham a couple of weeks ago.

The players have been on a winter break and some went to Dubai to recharge their batteries.

“The mood is being credited partly to the players, partly to the manager Erik ten Hag and partly to INEOS who have been welcomed in by staff and supporters alike”.

“Insiders believe they have come back with a desire to reset and are absolutely determined to make the second half of the campaign better than the first”.

This will be music to the ears of many fans, who have also been left impressed by the contrast that INEOS have set with the Glazers to date. After meeting with supporters, Ratcliffe was described as “highly impressive”.

Nonetheless, the proof will be in the pudding. The Red Devils must start by putting away Newport in the cup this weekend and then by launching an assault on the Premier League to push towards the top four places.

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Official: Nemanja Matic signs for new club battling against relegation on the continent

Manchester United’s transfer policy over the last decade has seen some high profile players come and go in what has been a turbulent ten years in the market.

Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matic is one of the names that passed through Old Trafford in underwhelming fashion, having generally failed to find his best form in Manchester.

Matic left United in the summer of 2022 and spent 12 months at Roma before a poor few months at Rennes at the start of this season has led him to his latest move.

Matic became unsettled at Rennes and parted with the club on acrimonious terms.

The 35-year-old has now signed for Olympique Lyonnais on a free transfer.

Nemanja Matić nous rejoint jusqu'en 2026 ! #Matić2026

Toutes les informations

— Olympique Lyonnais (@OL) January 27, 2024

Lyon will be hoping Matic can bring some much needed control and experience to their ranks with the club facing a shock relegation from Ligue 1.

Les Gones are enduring an awful season, having lost more games than anyone in France’s top tier.

They currently sit in 16th place of the 18 team league and occupying the relegation playoff spot after last night’s 3-2 home defeat to Matic’s former side, Rennes.

Matic has signed a two year deal with the club and will be hoping to spend both of them in Ligue 1.

The Serb made 189 appearances for United during a five-year spell at Old Trafford after signing in a £40 million deal from rivals Chelsea in 2017.

Having failed to win a trophy with United, Matic will consider his time at the club as somewhat of a failure, having signed with expectations high under Jose Mourinho.

However, United fans will no doubt wish Nemanja all the best at Lyon as he enters the twilight stages of his long career.

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"Some sort of dip": Roy Keane compares Klopp news to Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement

Former Manchester United captain, Roy Keane, has claimed that he is not surprised that Jurgen Klopp has announced he will leave Liverpool in the summer but he has queried the timing.

It was reported yesterday that the German would stand down as manager of Liverpool football club after eight seasons.

The coach claimed that “we aren’t young rabbits anymore” and that he would not have the required energy to start a ninth season in Merseyside.

The Liverpool Echo report that the Irishman stated, “He’s a character, we’ll miss him – the type of football he’ll play. But I’m not that shocked, the demand on those managers it takes its toll.”

The ITV pundit did question the timing of the announcement, however.

“There was a lot of chat about who might come in, a different challenge for Liverpool now is the timing,” Keane said. “The timing that the manager has made the decision and we’ll see the reaction there will be from this group of players, the timing is slightly different but we know what a brilliant manager Klopp is”.

The Anfield side are still competing on four fronts this season, so it seems a strange choice to announce such a momentous change for the club bang in the middle of it all.

The United legend also compared Klopp’s announcement to when Sir Alex Ferguson announced his original decision to retire in 2002, which he thankfully had second thoughts about.

“The timing is different,” added Keane. “The manager back at United did it at the start of the season and we were on the back of winning three titles in a row maybe that was some sort of dip. Subconsciously I thought it would’ve affected the dressing room at the time, we had experienced players, we thought we’d get on with it then he made the decision that he was coming back, we kind of just rolled with it.”

What is clear is that the former Borussia Dortmund coach will leave a massive hole at Liverpool and now they have the unenviable task of trying to replace him.

Manchester United fans know better than most the difference a top class manager can make.

The likes of Xabi Alonso and Roberto Di Zerbi have been linked to the soon-to-be vacant role but whoever takes on the role will have a mountain to climb to live up to the controversial German.

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Sporting director confirms club received €100m bid from United for star midfielder

Igli Tare, former Lazio sporting director, has claimed that Manchester United did in fact make a bid in excess of €100m for Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.

The Al-Hilal midfielder eventually left Lazio this summer, but for many years the attacking midfielder was linked to United.

In an interview with tuttomercatoweb, the former director claimed that “many untrue things have been said about Milinkovic-Savic, from his farewell on a free transfer to the fact that he didn’t want to stay, the only true thing is that Lotito rejected a very important offer, worth over 100 million euros, from Milan and Manchester United”.

“I don’t want to say too much about the lack of sales, even if there was a question of budgets, but Lotito’s choices were to maintain a strong team and respect the promises made to the coach. Let’s not forget that in the year of Covid, Lazio was about to win the scudetto.”

It can be understood then that the offer could have been made in 2019 or 2020 due to the sporting director’s Covid reference.

The Serbian was said to be a target of the Red Devils since the days of Jose Mourinho and the midfielder once commented that it made him happy that he was being scouted by the likes of the Manchester United manager.

The Red Devils were constantly linked with the player through various summers but it was always reported that the player carried such an immense price tag.

Nonetheless, nobody was ever sure on the veracity of such rumours. Now, it seems that these rumours were true.

United were even linked to the player in the summer of 2022 when Erik ten Hag took the reins of the club.

The midfield man was even suggested as a possible transfer to the Red Devils even last summer, before eventually moving to Saudi Arabia.

It was reported by Italian sources that after missing out on Adrien Rabiot, the Serbian could finally land in Manchester.

However, it was not to be as he signed on the dotted line for the Middle-Eastern side this summer.

The post Lazio’s former sporting director Igli Tare claims Manchester United bid over €100m for Sergej Milinkovic-Savic appeared first on Man United News And Transfer News | The Peoples Person.

Video: United players take on wonderkid Luke Littler in darts challenge at Carrington

During Manchester United’s hectic festive fixture list there was another young sporting sensation catching the nation’s attention.

16-year-old Luke Littler made it all the way to the final of the World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace after blitzing through the early rounds of the tournament.

Unfortunately for Littler, it was another Luke, Humphries, who proved too strong for the teenager on the night, leaving the United fan with the runner-up prize.

Since then, life has changed a bit for Luke ‘the Nuke’, leaving him rubbing shoulders with the stars.

His latest day out came at United’s AON training complex where the young man met his heroes on a rainy day in Manchester.

Welcome to Carrington, @LukeTheNuke180 #MUFC pic.twitter.com/qkGBzTwkzB

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 25, 2024

Littler and a few United stars then found shelter at Carrington which gave the wonderkid a chance to show off his exceptional skills.

How many darts will it take Luke Littler to beat Harry Maguire’s 9-dart score of 171?

Three perfect throws… pic.twitter.com/UMZY2iNEGy

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 25, 2024

Harry Maguire and Christian Eriksen were tasked with throwing 9 darts each hoping to leave Littler with a handy target to beat.

Maguire shot a total score of 171 including an impressive treble 20, with Eriksen totalling 136.

Littler then stepped forward and, in typical style, threw a maximum score of 180 in his first three arrows to the amazement and applause of the players watching on.

Additionally, Erik ten Hag had some words of praise for Littler who was also in attendance for United’s last fixture at Old Trafford, the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur.

“Congrats with your performance, it was great. Keep going and I’m sure, next time, you will win. It’s about character always, so keep going!” said the boss.

Luke was invited to the Director’s Box for the match against Spurs and was fortunate enough to bump into a very special member of the United family.

“Unbelievable, I met Sir Alex Ferguson and got him to sign my top for me. It was good to get me in a quite good seat and I actually wore some decent clothes for once, instead of just trackies!” he said.

Given his tender years and incredible talent, it will only be a matter of time before Littler gets his hands on the World Championship trophy and promised he will return to Old Trafford with the silverware in tow.

“Hopefully, I can win the world championship or even a major trophy this year – one of the five or six majors that are on offer – and take it to Old Trafford,” he added.

Everyone connected with United will be wishing Luke all the best for 2024 and beyond as he continues to take the Darts world by storm.

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United target with a "higher vertical leap than Ronaldo" has lots to prove - The Athletic

Brian Brobbey is the latest Ajax player to be the subject of longing eyes from Old Trafford.

The Dutchman has been linked to Manchester United recently and is said to be keen on a move to England, albeit in the summer.

The Athletic have subsequently responded with an analysis of what type of player United may be getting if Ten Hag gets his way and the 21 year old makes the switch to Manchester.

“Blessed with a low centre of gravity and powerful thighs, he is a potent physical threat in the penalty area. Strong and pacy (but not lightning quick), he can be a powerful ball of muscle when barrelling through on goal. When he was 14, he was found to have a higher vertical leap than Cristiano Ronaldo”.

However, his physical dominance over Eredivisie defenders can come at a price according to the American outlet. “He knows how much stronger he is than the defenders he faces every week, meaning he has a tendency to ‘cheat’ himself in more frantic moments, relying on that strength to bail him out of
situations he wasn’t adequately focused on”.

This strategy is unlikely to work in England against stronger, faster and savvier defenders. The fact he lacks the sheer pace of Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho means he will need to reinvent himself to be a threat.

Statistics demonstrate he is a “useful focal point” for his side’s attack and likes to exchange simple passes with team-mates as he scores highly in link-up play and ball retention. “His back-to-goal game is impressive (again, when facing defenders in the Dutch league) and he has deceptively good hold-up play for his 5ft 10in (180cm) frame”.

“Brobbey can look like a goalscoring marvel. He’s a volume shooter: taking many attempts and — eventually — scoring a decent number of goals. He likes to do most of his work inside the penalty area”. This can be seen where he ranks incredibly highly statistically in both receptions in opposition box and shot volume.

The problem is, United don’t currently create a lot of shots. If they did, Rasmus Hojlund would most likely be on many more goals.

Furthermore, “his shot map for last season illustrates a clever penalty-area mover who can get into the six-yard box with pleasing regularity. How well he’ll do in front of goal when playing for a team who don’t dominate possession as well as Ajax remains to be seen”. United currently sit 7th in teams with the most possession in England.

Another potential weakness for Brobbey is the fact he is a “streaky” scorer. When on form he can seem one of the elite young attacking talents in Europe but when he is off the boil, he can be incredibly frustrating. United already have plenty of players who fit this particular bill.

The Athletic notes that this “inconsistency” and a proneness to pick up “niggly muscular injuries” has led several managers to discount him as a consistent starter.

There are also serious question marks over the striker’s ability and desire to press, which is in theory, a supposed hallmark of Ten Hag’s style as he aims for his side to be the best “transition team in Europe”.

The Athletic warns that while Brobbey has done well individually in a struggling Ajax team, where he has found the net 15 times in 26 games, you should treat these numbers cautiously. They note that seven of his fourteen goals have come in five recent games against bottom half opposition.

A series of Dutch legends such as Ronald Koeman and Marco van Basten have flagged up some serious concerns about the striker’s natural goal scoring instincts.

Brobbey is seen as a “talent to be an effective cog in an already well-oiled machine, capable of generating goalscoring chaos in a way few other players in the Netherlands can. It is harder to predict whether he can be a sparkplug in a malfunctioning engine, or whether it’s even reasonable to ask him to take on such a role”, The Athletic continues.

“Physically and technically, Brobbey is capable of the jump to a Premier League club”. However, if he were to be given the chance at Old Trafford to prove himself in England, “the onus would fall on him to show suitors he is more Kudus than Antony”.

With United already gambling on one expensive youth project in Rasmus Hojlund, it is far from certain that another in Brobbey is the answer Ten Hag is looking for.

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Joel Glazer's favourite star has surely played his last game for United - The Telegraph

Few would argue that Manchester United’s awarding of a five year, £250,000 a week contract to Anthony Martial in 2019 was a disaster and a direct consequence of the dangers of unqualified people occupying places of great power at the club.

There seems a never ending list of failures from the likes of Ed Woodward and Matt Judge, both who have left the club, but that new deal for Martial five years ago is a prime example of their tarnished legacy of failure.

At that point, the player had had a rollercoaster career for the club. He had been crucial in the side’s FA Cup win in 2016 in his debut season but struggled to kick on under Jose Mourinho and in fact, the Portuguese recommended the player should be sold.

Legend has it that Joel Glazer blocked the sale because Martial is his favourite player. Subsequently, the Frenchman found form under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and was actually the club’s top goal scorer in the 2019/2020 season with 23 goals.

However, those good times never returned as the striker has suffered poor form and a multitude of injuries since.

Martial has consistently been linked with a move away from the club but no move ever seems to materialise. It was reported earlier this month that his agent was in Turkey trying to secure deal for his client but could not agree one with either Fenerbahce or Galatasaray.

His agent Philippe Lamboley then revealed that the Frenchman will stay at the club until the end of his contract in June.

To add insult to injury, it was announced yesterday that Martial will require groin surgery that will keep him out of action until April.

He has been unavailable since December’s defeat to Bournemouth.

This has led the Telegraph’s James Ducker to question whether the Frenchman will play for United again and to observe that “since signing that 5 year deal on Jan. 31, 2019 his 103 starts (only 70 in PL) have each effectively cost the club £505,000”.

Have to see whether Martial plays again for #MUFC now he's ruled out for c10 weeks & will leave at end of season but since signing that 5 year deal on Jan. 31, 2019 his 103 starts (only 70 in PL) have each effectively cost the club £505,000 https://t.co/RWccaweUvE

— James Ducker (@TelegraphDucker) January 24, 2024

It is hard to believe that a striker in his ninth year at the club has not even scored 100 goals yet. It looks like the French international will never get past 90.

In fact, Martial has only scored 19 goals in the last three and a half years. The former Monaco man has only ever scored more than 15 goals in two seasons and one was his first when he was still a teenager.

It is a sad story of a player who used to dazzle defenders with tricks and explosive speed. Injuries and lack of playing time and perhaps even effort at times, have left the player a shell of his former self.

The Frenchman has been continuously linked to Serie A, which may be a launching pad for a player who isn’t even 30 yet. At 28, he should be in the prime of his career.

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Sir Jim Ratcliffe's biggest decision at United expected in early February - The Athletic

The INEOS sporting team are expected to announce their decision on the future of Erik ten Hag in February amid claims that Champions League qualification remains a priority this season.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s minority stake ownership bid – which will include INEOS assuming full control over the football operation at Old Trafford – is currently being analysed by the Premier League as part of the regulatory approval process.

Ratification of Ratcliffe’s position as Manchester United’s new co-owner is likely to be granted in “early February”, according to The Athletic. Until this point, the British billionaire and his sporting team are legally constrained in terms of what they can reveal publicly and what they can do at Old Trafford.

However, once he gains approval, a host of comprehensive changes are expected to be initiated throughout the club.

One such example has already taken place, with Omar Berrada poached from local rivals Manchester City to be United’s new chief executive. Similarly, a new sporting director and a head of recruitment are likely to join Berrada, as part of an overhaul at the executive level.

These are moves with next season and beyond in mind, however. The Athletic contends INEOS are still maintaining a laser focus on this season, with “no sense” they are writing off the club’s prospects.

Laurie Whitwell reveals Ratcliffe and his team “want United to qualify for the Champions League” as Europe’s premier competition is the club’s expected home. INEOS have made no qualms about their demands of success at United; they will be uninterested in the Europa League while its big brother remains a possibility.

Money is another driving factor.

Qualification will “help significantly with financial fair play calculations” which are severely hampering United’s flexibility in the January market. Whitwell indicates this financial pressure is why the club have been exploring loan deals, rather than any permanent transfers. He references “loan approaches” for Matthijs de Ligt and Eric Choupo-Moting as evidence of this “tightness on numbers.”

There is also expected to be a public announcement on the manager’s future in February.

Whitwell reveals INEOS executives are “expected to speak publicly” on a host of topics after the approval process is confirmed. This will include “the future of…Erik ten Hag.”

The Dutchman has spoken of how much he is “looking forward” to working with the INEOS team with early reports suggesting they plan to “stand by” the manager in the short term. A comprehensive audit of the processes and structures at Old Trafford will take place – led by Sir Dave Brailsford – designed to improve every level of an underperforming institution.

Only after this analysis is complete will INEOS make a more permanent decision on their long-term manager, be it Ten Hag or a replacement. However, the Dutchman will need his team to make drastic improvements in the coming months to convince his new employers he is the right man for the job.

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"Ready to leave this summer": United linked with superstar striker who could lead INEOS revolution

Manchester United have been linked with a sensational move for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.

Ekrem Konur (ESPN) contends United are one of a number of clubs across Europe believed to be interested in the 25-year-old, including Chelsea and Real Madrid. The reporter reveals Osimhen is “ready to leave” Naples this summer as he plots his next move.

#ForzaNapoliSempre
Victor Osimhen is ready to leave Napoli this summer. with Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid all linked with the 25-year-old Nigeria player. pic.twitter.com/uTkPqMKYVh

— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) January 24, 2024

Napoli have suffered a downturn in form this season after the emotional high of their first Serie A win in thirty-three years last season.

Under Luciano Spalletti, Gli Azzurri established themselves as one of the best, and most effective, teams in Europe. They finished sixteen points clear of second-place Lazio in the league, only losing four games all season.

Osimhen was fundamental to this success. Thirty-one goals and four assists in thirty-nine appearances in all competitions made the Nigerian one of the most deadly strikers in Europe.

Spalletti would depart at the end of the season, however, to take on the Italian national team role. His replacement – Rudi Garcia – did not gel well with his new team, leading to a dramatic reversal in Napoli’s fortunes this year.

Garcia was sacked after just sixteen games and replaced by Walter Mazzarri in November.

Napoli have not fared much better with the managerial change, however. They languish in 9th in Serie A, twenty-one points behind leaders Juventus. Mazzarri also saw his side depart the Coppa Italia in the round-of-sixteen, courtesy of an embarrassing 4-0 loss to Frosinone.

Naturally, Osimhen’s form has mirrored his team’s.

Eight goals and two assists in eighteen matches is a reasonable return given the circumstances, but a long way from the heights of last season. It would still make the striker the top scorer at Old Trafford, however.

United are believed to be targeting a “top-class striker” this summer as part of the INEOS’ sporting team’s plans to overhaul Erik ten Hag’s squad. Only Crystal Palace, Sheffield United and Burnley have scored fewer goals than United in the Premier League this season.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reported to want a new centre-forward at Harry Kane’s level to buttress this misfiring forward line. While this will not be possible, as Kane exists in a class of his own, Osimhen may constitute the next best thing who will be available in the summer.

The 25-year-old recently revealed he has “already made up my mind” over his next move this summer. He’s also believed to have a long-standing interest in the Premier League.

Unfortunately, he has referenced Didier Drogba as a hero of his with Chelsea reported to be at the front of the queue for his services. Similarly, Old Trafford officials want their new centre-forward to be able to play with Rasmus Hojlund, rather than instead of. As such, a traditional number nine in the mould of Osimhen may not fit this mould.

The Peoples Person wouldn’t put too much faith in this link, despite how exciting a move it would be.

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Andre Onana’s reaction after being benched for Cameroon speaks volumes about his character

Andre Onana shook off any disappointment about being dropped for Cameroon’s huge African Cup of Nations tie versus Gambia and was seen wildly encouraging his teammates from the sidelines.

The Mirror reports that “Andre Onana might have lost his place in Cameroon ‘s starting XI, but he made clear his desire for the Indomitable Lions to kick on in the Africa Cup of Nations”.

Cameroon made incredibly hard work of their opponents and needed two late goals to secure the win and therefore qualification for the next round.

The United goalkeeper’s replacement hardly covered himself in glory during the loss, so national team boss, Rigobert Song, will have a tough decision to make for the upcoming knockout games.

It was relayed here yesterday that the former Ajax man had been surprisingly dropped for the vital game.

Tensions are obviously on the rise between player and coach as The Athletic suggested when they highlighted the inability of the Cameroonian FA, their manager and player to sing from the same hymn sheet about the curious events of Onana’s late arrival to the training camp.

The outlet has predicted that tensions could soon boil over again and that could certainly be true if Song continues to bench the player that came out of international retirement to represent his nation specifically at the AFCON.

Despite the sting of starting on the bench, “Onana was not feeling sorry for himself, though. Throughout the game, he could be seen encouraging his team-mates as they chased the result they needed to stay in the tournament”.

This is not the first time that the keeper has been seen acting as a cheerleader.

When Rasmus Hojlund scored his first Premier League goal against Aston Villa, the eccentric keeper ran down the whole length of the pitch to wildly celebrate with his teammates.

Onana can certainly be criticised for his ability in goal and his suitability for this current United side. However, one thing that cannot seemingly be questioned is his desire for his team to win and joy in others’ success.

Nonetheless, the former Inter Milan man will be desperate to make a return between the sticks for his nation in the next round of the competition.

The tale of Onana’s story with the AFCON and his nation has turned and twisted like a meandering river. Who could possibly predict what will happen next?

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Fabrizio Romano provides crucial update on United’s January pursuit of Bundesliga star

Manchester United’s January transfer pursuit of Bayern Munich striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting appears to be falling apart.

With Man United believed to be prioritising a striker signing in the January transfer window, Choupo-Moting emerged as a potential target early in the window.

Although no official bid had been submitted, Bayern were reported to be open to engaging with United over a potential deal, particularly with the player’s contract due to expire in the summer.

A day later, The Peoples Person reported the 34 year old’s interest in joining United, with Bayern reportedly open to allowing his departure following the arrival of Harry Kane at the club.

Still, technicalities threatened to sabotage a potential deal.

With United strapped for cash and Financial Fair Play rules likely limiting the club to loan deals only this season, a move for Choupo-Moting appeared unlikely, given that German clubs are prohibited from loaning out players if the loan would end at the same point that their contract with the club expires.

Even if United were to find an alternative avenue to pursue a deal, some of the latest reports on the issue suggest that any move for the Cameroonian striker is likely out of the question.

Yesterday, Sport Witness claimed that Bayern have no interest in offloading Choupo-Moting in any capacity, given that he is their primary backup to Kane.

The news outlet added that only an “immoral offer” in the coming days could convince the Bavarians to part ways with the veteran striker, which is probably unattainable for United given the club’s FFP predicament.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed this morning that United’s pursuit of Choupo-Moting appears set to fail.

“The issue is that Bayern Munich are insisting on him staying at the club”, Romano reported, adding that he remains a popular player at the club while his experience is highly valued.

Furthermore, Romano claimed that United have not activated negotiations, meaning that the club would still have to lay all of the groundwork if Choupo-Moting was to be pursued.

With the 34 year old seemingly unlikely to join United this January, perhaps the club’s efforts would best be focused elsewhere, particularly if they hope to add some much-needed depth up front.

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“I have a new number”: United target gives bizarre explanation for Ten Hag silence

Manchester United’s woeful first half of the season has been largely down to the misfiring front line of Erik ten Hag’s attack.

United are the lowest scorers in the top half of the Premier League by some distance and the alarming lack of quality has left the Dutchman under pressure.

Ajax striker Brian Brobbey has been widely linked with a move to Old Trafford with Ten Hag desperate to add some extra firepower to his ranks.

Brobbey has been in excellent form with Ajax recovering from their own poor start to the season, scoring twice in yesterday’s (Sunday) win against RKC Waalwijk.

The striker spoke to the press after the victory and despite not ruling out a move in the summer, he did pour cold water on a January move.

Brobbey, who was courted by United in the summer, insists he no longer has direct contact with Ten Hag who he worked with during his first spell in Amsterdam, as reported by The Mirror.

“I am not in contact with Erik ten Hag anymore. We used to text through Whatsapp, but I think Erik is busy. I have a new number as well, so…” he said.

The 21-year-old confirmed United’s interest in the summer but insisted it was his decision to move back to Ajax from RB Leipzig, despite the lure of a bumper deal in Manchester.

“Erik ten Hag called me and said that at United, my agent would get millions of euros and I could earn a multiple of my Ajax salary. But our decision was clear: we wanted to go to Ajax,” he explained.

Brobbey latest brace has pushed him to double figures for goals this season, taking his tally to 11 in 17 league appearances with four assists.

With or without Brobbey distancing himself from a move, United are unlikely to conduct any major business in January with INEOS finding their feet after taking control of the sporting structure at the club.

United will be hoping for an upturn in fortunes in the second half of the campaign and are back in action with a trip to Newport County, in the fourth round of the FA Cup this coming Sunday.

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Jadon Sancho reveals one major reason for shock return to Dortmund

Jadon Sancho’s recent return to Borussia Dortmund was significantly influenced by his former captain Marco Reus.

This revelation follows Sancho’s loan move back to the German club from Manchester United.

In an interview with Dortmund’s club media, Sancho shed light on the crucial role Reus played in his return to the Bundesliga team.

He recalled a specific instance in Las Vegas, where Reus, captured on video, encouraged him to consider a return to Dortmund.

The bond between Reus and Sancho dates back to their time together at Dortmund from 2017 to 2021.

Following a highly publicized transfer, Sancho joined Man United for a reported fee of 85 million euros.

However, his tenure at United was marred by unhappiness and a recent suspension due to a dispute with team manager Erik ten Hag.

Sancho’s comeback to Dortmund, albeit on loan, marks a significant turn in his career.

The 23-year-old winger, whose contract with United extends until 2026, rejoins a club where he previously found considerable success.

The relationship between Sancho and Reus goes beyond the pitch, with Sancho mentioning that he kept in touch with many Dortmund players, including Reus and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, following his departure.

This ongoing communication highlights the strong personal connections the Englishman maintained with his former teammates.

Looking ahead, Dortmund, with Sancho and Reus reunited, have started 2024 on a positive note, winning their first two games.

The team is set to continue their Bundesliga campaign with a home game against VfL Bochum next Sunday, where the duo will look to contribute significantly to the team’s performance.

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United star's brother set to follow in his footsteps with surprise move to England - report

Raphael Varane’s half-brother, Jonathan, could be set to join him in England as the 22-year-old midfielder mulls over offers from both Norwich City and Queens Park Rangers.

L’Equipe reveals Jonathan, who currently plays for Sporting Gijon, is the subject of interest from clubs right across Europe.

The French outlet believes Cadiz and Getafe want to bring the midfielder to La Liga while the two Championship clubs want him to relocate to England.

Norwich are believed to have offered €2.5 million to sign Jonathan while QPR have make a loan offer with an option to buy.

L’Equipe reveals both La Liga sides have tabled €1.5 million offers for the midfielder but have included a future sale percentage as part of the deals.

Jonathan has made thirteen appearances for Sporting Gijon this season, who currently reside in Liga 2 – Spain’s second division.

The northern Spanish team are second in the table, three points off first-placed Leganes.

As such, officials from Sporting Gijon may be hesitant to make any meaningful changes to a squad who are, at present, set to achieve promotion into La Liga.

€2.5 million is a lot of money for a second division Spanish club, however. Particularly for a player who fulfils more of a squad-based role, rather than an undisputed starter.

Jonathan came through the same academy as Raphael at Lens. He only made one appearance for the first-team before relocating to Spain in August 2022. He signed a new four-year deal with Sporting Gijon in May last year.

Jonathan has previously criticised comparisons with Raphael as the 22-year-old wishes to be judged on the individual merits of his own career, not his brother’s.

“My name is Jonathan and I want to be myself, to distance myself from that image of my brother; I am different from him, I like to repeat that,” he stated. If he was to move from Lens to La Liga to England it wouldn’t help his cause, however.

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Cristiano Ronaldo hilariously trolled by buget airline after Saudi League comments

Manchester United and Cristiano Ronaldo parted company for the second time just over a year ago.

The Portuguese superstar made a trailblazing move to the Saudi Pro League after leaving United, paving the way for a raft of stars to follow in his footsteps.

Since then Ronaldo has continued to bang in the goals and ended 2023 as the top scorer in world football over the calendar year.

The standard of the Pro League has naturally been questioned by critics, but Ronaldo insists the levels are high in the Middle East.

The 38-year-old compared the Saudi League to Ligue 1 in France and the comment has drawn a bit of banter from budget airline, Ryanair.

Ryanair reposted Fabrizio Romano quoting the Portuguese star’s words on X (formerly Twitter), saying “Finally, someone funnier than us”, in reaction to Ronaldo’s comments.

finally, someone funnier than us https://t.co/XzeIIWH8y0

— Ryanair (@Ryanair) January 19, 2024

Ronaldo made his claims at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai.

“Saudi League is not worse than Ligue 1. Saudi Pro League is more competitive than Ligue 1, I can say that after one year spent there. We are better than the French league already now,” he said.

X users were roundly in agreement with Ryanair and responded with typical good humour.

One commented: “Someone come take Ronaldo out the oven, he’s ready. Ryanair cooked.” Another added: “That’s crazy.”

Ronaldo will no doubt continue to play a key role in the development of the game in the Middle East but would love to win a league title during his stay.

Despite his remarkable goal return, Al-Nassr still find themselves seven points behind Al-Hilal in the Pro League table with just over half the season played.

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United set to "step up" pursuit of Spanish international, would transform Ten Hag's midfield - report

Manchester United are said to have significant interest in Real Sociedad midfielder, Martin Zubimendi.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the sports journalist Dean Jones claimed, “there’s not really any part of the squad that is not under examination right now as they look towards the summer”, and while the centre back position has been discussed in the media, “also the centre of their midfield will change”.

Manchester United look to be largely inactive in the winter window as they wait for the Premier League’s ratification of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s deal to be part owner of the football club.

However, INEOS reportedly plan a big summer window of change and that is when interest in the Basque midfielder could escalate.

“They have got a few names already. Four or five names, to be honest, that they’re continuing to explore for the midfield. I think that they’ll also get involved in conversations around players like Zubimendi, who they have a level of interest in”.

“I think they might even step that up as we get through the season”.

GIVEMESPORT assert that “it’s understood that Sir Jim Ratcliffe is ready” to bring Real Sociedad’s Zubimendi to Old Trafford in the summer transfer window as the 24 year old has a £52m release clause in his contract.

United have a long-standing interest in the player as they had been linked to the player back in May last year when the club were left “impressed” after the Spaniard’s display against the Old Trafford side in the Europa League group stage in 2022.

However the Basque club would only agree to sell the player if his release clause was met.

Furthermore, Erik ten Hag reportedly sent scouts to watch Real Sociedad duo Martin Zubimendi and Takefusa Kubo during an October contest against Mallorca.

The San Sebastian native has been in good form for his local side, playing 20 La Liga games this season, scoring four goals and having one assist to his name to date.

With INEOS reportedly looking to get rid of Casemiro to clear up wage space and Financial Fair Play wiggle room, bringing in a younger player like Zubimendi, likely on significantly lower wages, could make a lot of sense to bolster the midfield department.

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Under-fire United star honoured with prestigious award for his illustrious career

Manchester United’s struggles in the first half of the campaign have largely been down to the consistent injury list Erik ten Hag has had to contend with.

Finding the balance in midfield with so many absentees has left United unable to control matches and the Dutch manager is now under pressure at Old Trafford.

One of the missing men in the middle of the park has been Brazilian star ,Casemiro.

After an excellent debut season, United fans were excited to see the former Real Madrid man in action again this campaign.

However, injury has ruled him out of well over half of United’s fixtures, leaving a major hole in Ten Hag’s engine room.

It’s been a difficult second term for the five time Champions League winner but he is expected to make his return in the upcoming games.

The midfielder had further good news this week – winning the 2023 Globe Soccer Player Career Award.

Casemiro collected the award, which celebrates his illustrious career, in Dubai with his wife Anna Mariana in attendance.

@Casemiro has received the Player Career Award at today's @Globe_Soccer ceremony #MUFC || #GlobeSoccer pic.twitter.com/zKzoUpDblx

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 19, 2024

On a night of glitz and glamour in the Middle East, Casemiro was delighted to receive the honour and join the star-studded list of previous recipients.

The award is now in its 13th year since being introduced in 2011 with Alessandro del Piero the inaugural winner.

Former United stars Wayne Rooney and Zlatan Ibrahimovic picked up last year’s award alongside Casemiro’s international compatriot Romario.

The 31-year-old will now return to Manchester in a bid to help United finish the season strong after a disappointing campaign to date.

However, his long term future is not so certain with United looking for a revamp of the first team squad under the new INEOS regime.

Casemiro’s age and bumper wages mean he could be one of the high profile stars on the chopping block as United hope to assert a new wage structure and culture at the club.

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