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Tag: Man Utd

  • Champions League group stage to see Arsenal, Man United clash

    Champions League group stage to see Arsenal, Man United clash

    After a late stumble from Arsenal, Manchester City won their third consecutive Engli-sh Premier League championship, while Paris Saint-Germain won their eleventh championship. 

    The top five divisions of Europe’s leagues concluded this past weekend. 

    League champions were announced as early as May, with Napoli and Barcelona both lead-ing strong campaigns in Italy and Spain.

    For Bayern Munich to continue to rule the Bundesliga, a lucky break was required.

    After spending a lengthy time out of the top competition in Europe, teams like Arsenal and Newcastle will return for the 2023–2024 season. 

    Also, there would be a few unexpected gifts from RC Lens (France), Real Sociedad (Spain), and Union Berlin (Germany).

    As it stands, the final placing in the four pots is not confirmed, with a few issues still yet to be decided. As Bleacher Reports

    Feyenoord, who won the Eredivisie, could drop to Pot 3 should Inter Milan win the Champions League.

    Sevilla will also start the draw from Pot 1, having won the Europa League on May 31 for a record-extending seventh time.

    As Evening Standard reports, a number of other select teams will fight for a place in the draw through a rigorous playoff round to be announced later.

    Rangers, Marseille, PSV Eindhoven and newly-crowned Belgian champions Royal Antwerp will begin their Champions League journey from the play-off stage.

    states, the placing is often determined by the club’s coefficients.

    Manchester City, like all the other champions in Europe’s core leagues, will automatically be in Pot 1. However, Inter Milan could join them should they win the June 10 final.

    Pot 1: Manchester City, Napoli, Bayern Munich, PSG, Sevilla, Benfica, Feyenoord, Barcelona

    Pot 2: Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Arsenal, Porto, Leipzig, Atletico Madrid, Shakhtar Donetsk

    Pot 3: RB Salzburg, AC Milan, Lazio, Crvena Zvedza, Newcastle United, Celtic, Real Sociedad

    Pot 4: Union Berlin, Lens

    The teams in bold signify those whose positions on the pots can still change. The group stage draw will be conducted on August 31, 2023.

    Champions League referee investigated

    Sports Brief also reported that UEFA had begun to investigate referee Szymon Marciniak  after he was spotted talking to a far-right politician.

    Marciniak, who is due to officiate the Champions League final between Manchester City and Inter Milan on June 10, faced being stood down pending the results of the investigation.

    The investigation has, however, since been completed, and Marciniak has been cleared to officiate the Champions League blockbuster.

  • Champions League final referee Szymon Marciniak under investigation ahead of Man City vs Inter Milan

    Champions League final referee Szymon Marciniak under investigation ahead of Man City vs Inter Milan

    UEFA, the governing body for football in Europe, has initiated an investigation into referee Szymon Marciniak following his interaction with a far-right politician ahead of the Champions League final.

    Marciniak, who is scheduled to officiate the Champions League final between Manchester City and Inter Milan on June 10, may potentially be removed from his position pending the outcome of the investigation.

    Marciniak, a Polish referee, has previously overseen significant matches, including the World Cup final between Argentina and France, as well as Manchester City’s Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid.

    The Athletic reports that Marciniak was seen talking to Slawomir Mentzen – the leader of the Confederation Party who is known for his anti-Semitic and homophobic positions – at a networking event.

    “We stand against Jews, gays, taxation, and the European Union,” Mentzen controversially said during an event in 2019.

    He also released the White IPA beer that is said to mock the Black Lives Matter movement.

    In a statement, UEFA said it was aware of the allegations and further promised to provide a way forward after looking at all the facts.

    “UEFA and the whole football community abhor the ‘values’ that are promoted by the group in question and takes these allegations very seriously. A further announcement will be made tomorrow, after reviewing all the evidence,” the football body stated, as quoted by the Guardian.

    The event is said to have taken place on May 29, with Marciniak’s Facebook fan page sharing photos of him from the event.

    Mourinho’s feud with Anthony Taylor

    In what is proving to be a difficult week for UEFA referees, Sports Brief also reported on Jose Mourinho hurling obscenities at referee, Anthony Taylor after AS Roma lost the Europa League final to Sevilla on May 31.

    The Portuguese tactician was far from happy with some of the decisions made by the English referee, who has had a number of run-ins with the Special one in the past during his time as manager in the Premier League.

  • Diogo Dalot pleased to continue his involvement in the “special journey” at Man Utd

    Diogo Dalot pleased to continue his involvement in the “special journey” at Man Utd

    Diogo Dalot has expressed his belief that everyone at Man Utd feels like they are embarking on a special journey following his decision to sign a new contract until at least 2028.

    Since joining the club from Porto in 2018, the 24-year-old right-back has accumulated 107 appearances across various competitions.

    While he spent the 2020-21 season on loan at AC Milan, Dalot has committed his future to Old Trafford by agreeing to a new five-year deal, with the possibility of an additional season.

    This extension signifies the optimism and determination within the Manchester United camp as they look forward to a promising future.

    “Playing for Manchester United is one of the highest honours that you can have in football,” the 11-cap Portugal international said.

    “We have shared some fantastic moments over the past five years and I’ve grown so much and my passion for this incredible club has only increased since the day that I joined.

    “As a group of players, we all feel like we are at the start of a special journey right now.

    “I can assure you that I will dedicate myself relentlessly to helping this group to achieve our aims and make the fans proud of this team.

    “That drive continues this week with everyone intensely focused on preparations for the FA Cup final.”

    Dalot began the season superbly under Erik ten Hag, but much-improved Aaron Wan-Bissaka may get the nod to start Saturday’s FA Cup final at right-back.

    Irrespective of his role against Manchester City this weekend, United football director John Murtough is delighted by the strides the full-back has made.

    “Diogo is an excellent defender, with a great combination of pace, strength and versatility,” he said. “He has consistently developed, improving year-on-year since joining the club in 2018.

    “Diogo’s work ethic and professionalism is superb; the way in which he prepares himself every day in order to perform at his highest level is exactly what we all want from a Manchester United player.

    “Diogo has a strong mentality, high standards and a great personality, and we are delighted that he will remain an important member of the squad for the coming years.”

  • Manchester United fans want Vinicius Jnr ditch and join Premier League giants after racist attacks

    Manchester United fans want Vinicius Jnr ditch and join Premier League giants after racist attacks

    Manchester United supporters have taken to social media to express their desire for the talented Real Madrid player, Vinicius Jnr, to join their team after racist attacks.

    The recent racial abuse directed at Vinicius Jr. by Valencia fans during his team’s 1-0 defeat has attracted significant attention.

    While this incident is not an isolated occurrence, it appears that the Brazilian winger will likely continue his career at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

    Vinicius Junior was subjected to recist chants by fans during Real Madrid’s La Liga defeat to Valencia on Sunday. Photo by Quality Sport Images

    According to Express Football, it is not the first time the 22-year-old has suffered abuse, with Mallorca and Atletico Madrid fans also targeting him earlier in the season.

    Man United fans have now flocked to Twitter to call on Vini to move to Old Trafford this summer.

    “We are with you Vini. Leave that dead league and come to United,” rallied @TheUtdLatest.

    @ElijahBryant18 said:

    “Just come to United my brother you deserve an exciting league free of racial abuse”

    @UTDPLUG_. added:

    “La Liga loves you but here @ManUtd we love you more Vini come to united buddy”

    “Vinicius, come to United where you would be adored like your compatriot Casemiro,” were the words of @HenryNanthony.

    Vincius Jr wants Madrid stay

    Despite all the setbacks Vini Jr has had this season, reports have suggested the forward is eager to remain at Real Madrid, BBC Sports reports.

    Those close to the player have reportedly begun to plan the forward’s possible exit from the Spanish capital.

    Vinicius Jr has been urged to ditch Real Madrid for Man Utd this summer. Credit: @brfootball Source: Getty Images

    Vinicius, however, is said to be dedicated to Madrid and desires to win the war against racism by sticking to his guns rather than turning away.

    Ronaldo sends message to Vinicius

    Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Brazil legend, Ronaldo showing Vinicius Jr his support after the Brazilian was subjected to racism in a La Liga game against Valencia.

    The unfortunate incident took place at the Mestalla Stadium on Sunday, with the Real Madrid winger cruelly targeted by chants from sections of the home crowd.

    Among the legends who came forth to show support towards Vinicius after the incident was Ronaldo, who posted on social media in support of his fellow countryman.

  • Ferguson names his world-class players, tags CR7 as “ornament on the top of a Christmas tree”

    Ferguson names his world-class players, tags CR7 as “ornament on the top of a Christmas tree”

    Renowned manager, Sir Alex Ferguson who led Manchester United to numerous victories and 13 Premier League titles during his tenure from 1986 to 2013, has made comments that seem to indirectly criticize some of his former players when discussing the use of the term “world-class” in football.

    Throughout his illustrious career at Old Trafford, Ferguson experienced many remarkable moments, including achieving three consecutive titles twice and securing the treble in the 1998/99 season.

    26th MAY 1999, UEFA Champions League Final, Barcelona, Spain, Manchester United 2 v Bayern Munich 1, Manchester United team with manager Alex Ferguson celebrate with the trophy following their win (Photo by Popperfoto via Getty Images/Getty Images)

    He notably fostered a successful team dynamic with the famed “class of 1992,” where academy talents played a dominant role in his squad.

    According to Daily Express, since retirement, he has remained a regular figure around the club, attending games and getting involved in key decisions, including managerial appointments.

    Ferguson shades former players

    The use of labels and classification for players has become a thing in football. Legend and world-class are the two most controversial terms used currently in football.

    The 81-year-old has waded into the discussion using his Manchester United players as examples in what appears to be a subtle dig at some great stars.

    “If you read the papers or listen to the television commentators, we seem to be awash with ‘world-class’ footballers,” he wrote in his book, Learning from Life and My Years at Manchester United, via SportBible.

    “I don’t mean to demean or criticise any of the great or very good footballers who played for me during my 26-year career at United, but there were only four who were world-class: [Eric] Cantona, [Ryan] Giggs, [Cristiano] Ronaldo and [Paul] Scholes.”

    Ryan Giggs, Cristiano Ronaldo and Paul Scholes.

    He had special praise for the greatest of them all, Cristiano Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, including one under Ferguson’s watch.

    “And of the four Cristiano was like an ornament on the top of a Christmas tree,” he said.

    Ferguson apologises to Solskjaer

    Sports Brief reported that Ferguson apologised to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for publicly criticising the manager over his treatment of Cristiano Ronaldo.

    The Scot was influential in bringing Ronaldo to Old Trafford for a second spell that did not pan out well and joined a brigade of critics of Ole.

  • Two reasons why Man Utd should ditch Kane for Osimhen – Andy Cole details

    Two reasons why Man Utd should ditch Kane for Osimhen – Andy Cole details

    Andy Cole, a former Manchester United player, has recommended that his former club prioritize Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen over English international Harry Kane for a potential summer signing.

    Andy Cole,former United player

    Manchester United has faced difficulties in scoring goals across various competitions this season, leading them to consider adding a new striker to their roster at the end of the current season.

    Both Osimhen and Kane have displayed remarkable performances for their respective clubs, and the decision-makers at Manchester United are eager to secure the services of one of these exceptional players.

    The Super Eagles striker has registered 23 goals this term for Napoli and has also won the Serie A title. Kane, on the other hand, has netted 27 Premier League goals for Tottenham.

    According to the reports on Pulse and Utd District, Cole made it clear that Osimhen is the man who can really help Man United, considering his age and pace.

    Cole wants Osimhen at United

    “Kane is 30 years old next season and Osimhen is 24 years old, and he’s already done a lot at his age too. Italian football is complicated, but there is no doubt that he can adapt to the Premier League.

    Victor Osimhen celebrates

    If Manchester United wants to pay £100m for a 24-year-old or a 30-year-old, you have to look at it in the long term.”

    Balotelli links up with Osimhen

    Earlier, Sports Brief reported how Italian forward, Mario Balotelli met up with Victor Osimhen, following the Nigerian striker’s league triumph with Napoli.

    The Super Eagles star led Gli Azzurri to their first league title in 33 years, after scoring 23 goals in Serie A this season.

    Osimhen had already spoken to the former Inter Milan striker via Instagram the day the title was won.

    The duo finally met in Italy, after Balotelli returned home to watch the UEFA Champions League semi-final clash between his former clubs, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

  • Leeds or Leicester? Who survives relegation battle? Check out Supercomputer prediction

    Leeds or Leicester? Who survives relegation battle? Check out Supercomputer prediction

    The Premier League season is approaching its thrilling conclusion, with captivating storylines unfolding in the title race, top four battle, and relegation fight after the weekend’s matches, the Super Computer has come out with its prediction.

    The race for the league title has intensified, with teams vying for the prestigious crown. Each match carries immense significance as the top contenders battle for crucial points to secure the championship.

    The excitement is palpable as fans eagerly await the final outcome.

    Simultaneously, the competition for a top-four finish, guaranteeing qualification for lucrative European competitions, has taken dramatic turns. The fight for those coveted positions has become fiercely competitive, with teams jostling for points and striving to secure their place among the elite.

    At the other end of the table, the relegation dogfight has intensified the drama. The threat of demotion looms large for struggling teams, adding immense pressure to their performances.

    Manchester United’s win over Wolves saw them take a massive leap towards the Champions LeagueCredit: Reuters
    But Liverpool are hot on their tales Credit: EPA

    And now, a supercomputer has predicted how the final table will look with just two weeks to go.

    Arsenal’s 3-0 loss to Brighton did them no favours in the title race after Manchester City cruised to victory over Everton.

    Meanwhile, Manchester United took a big step towards the Champions League after beating Wolves 2-0.

    The pressure will now be on Liverpool to deliver against Leicester this evening if they hope to catch the Red Devils.

    Southampton’s relegation from the top flight was also confirmed after a 2-0 loss to Fulham.

    Draws for Leeds and Nottingham Forest against Newcastle and Chelsea respectively are keeping the bottom teams honest.

    But what does the final table look like?

    Well, using data provided by BETSiE from bettingexpert.com has predicted how the final table will look at the end of May 28.

    At the top of the tree, City will cash in on their new lead to win the title over Arsenal by 5.2 points.

    The top four will also see a change in the order, but not from the outside, with the computer predicting Man Utd to overtake Newcastle for third by the slimmest of margins – 0.1 points to be precise.

    It means Liverpool are predicted to finish fifth, with Brighton joining them in the Europa League while Tottenham compete in the Europa Conference League as Aston Villa miss out on European football.

    At the bottom, Leeds and Leicester are predicted to join the Saints in relegation to the Championship, with both sat roughly two points adrift from Everton and Nottingham Forest.

    Midtable will also see a shake-up, with Chelsea set to drop into 12th at the expense of Crystal Palace.

  • Man Utd leads race in Neymar transfer

    Man Utd leads race in Neymar transfer

    It is reported that PSG’s willingness to listen to offers for Neymar especially one’s from clubs like Man Utd as the club aims to reduce their wage bill, which has been inflated by the high salaries of their star players.

    Additionally, Manchester United is not the only club interested in signing Neymar, as there have been rumors of a potential return to Barcelona or a move to Real Madrid.

    However, if Sheikh Jassim’s takeover bid for Manchester United is successful, it is expected that the club will have significant financial resources to make a competitive offer for Neymar’s signature.

    Man Utd’s chances of signing Neymar have received a huge boost

    And it has emerged that PSG are planning for life without both the Brazilian and Lionel Messi.

    Messi has been suspended for two weeks after defying club chiefs’ wishes and flying for a promotional tour to Saudi Arabia.

    That was seen as a blatant move to alienate the club and fans, after his initial love affair in Paris has degenerated to more of a marriage of convenience.

    PSG bosses have been working on a future blueprint over the past few months, which it is envisaged will mean a wholesale change in policy.

    One club source explained: “From now on, the plan for PSG is simple – young, French and team players.

    “It’s obvious to anyone who that applies to and who it doesn’t.”

    PSG’s previous masterplan was to use the attacking trident of Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappe to conquer Europe and win the Champions League for the first time.

    But the Ligue 1 champions have fallen short with last 16 exits – at the hands of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich – for two straight seasons.

    Messi, out of contract at the end of this campaign, will not be offered a new deal – although his hopes of a return to Barcelona depend on the catalan giants reaching a financial agreement with La Liga bosses.

    And while PSG will not boot Neymar out of the door, it is understood that they will be willing to listen to serious offers if they come this summer.

    That is the opportunity for United to pounce if they think Neymar is the jigsaw piece that can take them back into the title equation and a genuine Champions League run.

    Neymar, who moved to Ligue 1 in a £198m deal from Barcelona in 2017, has two years left on his current PSG contract.

    But it is understood the South American, on a staggering £490,000 per WEEK, would be keen on a move to the Prem.

    Mbappe’s future has been clouded in uncertainty over the past 18 months, with Real Madrid desperate to land him.

    But while his attitude to team-mates has seen heads being shaken at times, he is 24, the emblem of France and also a player who will give everything to win on the pitch.

    A departure of the two South American stars would also leave Mbappe unchallenged as the “King of Paris” and the stand-out star in Ligue 1.

    Neymar’s girlfriend announces pregnancy

    In more positive news, Sports Brief reported on Neymar becoming a father again after his girlfriend, Bruna Biancardi’s recent pregnancy announcement.

    The model tagged the 31-year-old Paris Saint-Germain superstar in a post on social media(Instagram), where she announced the positive news to her 3.8 million followers.

    The couple shared a series of snaps highlighting Biancardi’s visibly growing baby bump, and in one of the photos, Neymar holds his girlfriend’s belly with a smile.

    The news was reported by Sports Brief and announced by Biancardi herself on social media.

    Neymar and his girlfriend Bruna Biancardi have announced they are expecting their first child together. Photo:@brunabiancardi Source: Instagram

    The post included a series of pictures, including some highlighting Biancardi’s visibly growing baby bump. The post was coupled with a passionate message to the unborn child of how she has a beautiful family awaiting his/her coming into this world.

    Neymar has been in a relationship with Biancardi for some time, and the news of their upcoming child has been well-received by his fans and followers on social media. This will be Neymar’s third child, as he is already a father to a son, Davi Lucca, whom he had with his former partner Carolina Dantas, and a daughter, whose mother’s identity is not publicly known.

  • Ten Hag clueless of source of funds to boost squad

    Ten Hag clueless of source of funds to boost squad

    Prince Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe both submitted bids on Friday, the third and likely final deadline for parties to make offers to purchase the Manchester United club and Ten Hag is clueless about where funds going to come from to form the ‘perfect’ squad he needs.

    Now that the Glazer family must make a decision, the advancement made during Ten Hag’s first season in command may be jeopardised.

    Even the manager is unsure of the financial support for changes, despite the fact that United are on track to finish in the top four and have a chance to add the FA Cup to the Carabao Cup.

    Asked if he has been told he has the funds to do what he wants to this summer irrespective of how the takeover process pans out, Ten Hag said: “No, I don’t have. I don’t have influence on that, I don’t have… also I don’t know.

    Man Utd manager, Erik ten Hag

    Erik ten Hag is in the dark over Manchester United’s summer spending power as the takeover saga rumbles on.

    The Old Trafford giants announced in November that the board was exploring strategic alternatives to enhance the club’s growth, with a full sale one option being considered.

    Friday was the third, and what is expected to be final, deadline for parties to make offers to buy the club, with Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe both submitting bids.

    Now the the Glazer family must decide how they want to proceed — a process that threatens to damage the progress made during Ten Hag’s first season in charge.

    United are on course for a top-four finish and have the chance to add the FA Cup to the Carabao Cup but the financial backing for improvements is unclear even to the manager.

    Asked if he has been told he has the funds to do what he wants to this summer irrespective of how the takeover process pans out, Ten Hag said: “No, I don’t have. I don’t have influence on that, I don’t have… also I don’t know.

    “The only thing what I know is that Man United is one of the biggest clubs and I think it’s among maybe (the) two biggest clubs in the world from a fanbase perspective.

    “So, I think this club has to compete for the highest in the world, so Champions League, Premier League.

    “But in football you need funds to construct squads because in the end of the day the level from your players makes if you are successful or not.”

    Ten Hag says “everyone knows you need funds to construct a squad” and that “high level players cost a lot of money” in elite football.

    “I, we see this as a project,” the United boss said. “In a project also it belongs that you are in windows, that you strengthen your squad needs or to make refreshments, so that you get more balance, definitely, and you bring young players in.

    “But I think we already have shown and proved that we can beat the best teams in the world, so, yeah, I think we can compete in the Champions League.

    “But at the end of the day we want to be in the winter also in the Champions League and we want to compete, and knock them all out, so then we have a way to go.”

    United are preparing to take on Brighton in the Premier League on Thursday after beating Aston Villa 1-0 to a backdrop of protests against the Glazers on Sunday.

    Ten Hag was seen after the match at Old Trafford picking up a green and gold scarf as he headed down the tunnel game, holding it up before throwing it back to fans.

    When asked if it was an act of solidarity with the fans, the United boss said: “No, it was just polite.

    “But I know what’s going around, what the symbol of it is, but this matter was just polite.”

    Ten Hag, understandably, refrained from publicly criticising his employers at this stage of the season but his desire for clarity on the club’s future is palpable.

    Asked how important it is to get the takeover process resolved as soon as possible, Ten Hag said: “Yeah, I think it’s clear what I want but it’s not up to me.

    “It’s about others in this club, finally there are the owners and they make the decisions, so it’s not up to me.

    “So, I do everything I can and I influence the processes I’m in charge of.”

    The “average performing” team has received many enhancements in an effort to rise from sixth to the top four after finishing 13 points behind Spurs the previous season. The ex-Ajax and PEC Zwolle manager has stressed the importance of United returning to the UEFA Champions League as soon as possible.

    Last summer, United signed Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia, Casemiro, and Christian Eriksen. In January, they strengthened their lineup even more by bringing in Marcel Sabitzer and Wout Weghorst.

  • Garnacho signs new, long-term contract to commit to Man Utd

    Garnacho signs new, long-term contract to commit to Man Utd

    A new, long-term contract with Manchester United has been inked by Alejandro Garnacho.

    The 18-year-old winger signed a contract with the Premier League team on Friday that would keep him there until June 2028.

    Garnacho has played for the Red Devils’ first team in 31 games, and it looks like there will be many more.

    After graduating from the United academy, the player said: “When I joined this magnificent club, I dreamed of making my debut, playing at Old Trafford, scoring my first goal, and winning trophies with this emblem on my breast.

    “I feel very proud and emotional to have experienced these moments already, together with my family who have supported me every step of the way.

    “We are all humbled to have this chance to continue our journey at Manchester United and I have already begun to work on achieving the next set of targets and ambitions. 

    “The manager and his coaching staff have helped me to improve in every way, and with their support, I am developing each day to help the team to be successful. 

    “I am relishing the future and can’t wait to create more special memories with this group, in front of our amazing supporters.”

    The teenager has been out since last month due to an ankle injury, but is set to make his return as United attempt to secure a top-four finish and win the FA Cup.

    United boss Erik ten Hag on Friday revealed Garnacho will not be allowed to represent Argentina when they host the U20 World Cup, which starts on May 20.

  • Bruno Fernandes is Ten Hag’s ‘idol’ after striking recovery efforts by the midfielder

    Bruno Fernandes is Ten Hag’s ‘idol’ after striking recovery efforts by the midfielder

    In order for Manchester United to cultivate a winning culture, Bruno Fernandes has been recognised by Erik ten Hag as the role model that all of the team’s players must emulate.

    The midfielder was photographed in a protective boot after fracturing his ankle during United’s FA Cup semifinal victory over Brighton on Sunday, but he was able to recover in time to lead the team in Thursday’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham.

    Fernandes played a key role in assisting Marcus Rashford’s goal after Jadon Sancho had given the visitors the early lead and put United up two goals at the break.

    Spurs hit back after the break and claimed a point thanks to goals from Pedro Porro and Son Heung-min.

    After watching his team let a two-goal lead slip, United’s manager praised his skipper’s readiness to suffer for the cause and called on the players to make Fernandes their inspiration if they are to find the consistency to compete on all fronts.

    United lead Spurs by six points and have two games in hand in the race to finish in the top four, and in June will look to add the FA Cup to the Carabao Cup they have already won when they face Manchester City at Wembley.

    “I think as Man United and as a top team then you have to compete and go for the win in every competition you are in, so that’s what we are doing,” said Ten Hag.

    “That is the culture we want to construct, so that is what we are doing. It has to be in the mindset of every player and every employee who is working for Manchester United.”

    Of Fernandes’s recovery he said: “It was tough, a big compliment on Bruno. He absolutely doesn’t want to miss this game and he did everything to get fit.

    “I think he is the example, and that you have to suffer and you have to sacrifice when you want to play on the top level, you want to achieve something.

    “So once again he showed there how great a captain he is, how he has taken responsibility, even when he is not 100 per cent fit.

    “But he did the job, he was important in this game as well. Hopefully the team can, not learn, but see him as an inspiration and do the same.”

    The draw with Spurs was the second time in two weeks that United had thrown away a two-goal lead, following their late collapse against Sevilla in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final.

    They subsequently capitulated in the return meeting in Spain, losing 3-0 to crash out of the competition.

    There have also been limp defeats to Newcastle and Liverpool, the latter a 7-0 hammering, but Ten Hag was quick to remind critics that his team have beaten the top two in the Premier League and the La Liga leaders this campaign.

    “We had some games I like,” said Ten Hag. “Two weeks ago against Forest (a 2-0 win), I think that was almost optimum. You see it’s not so easy to play Forest, you see Liverpool struggling, you see Brighton struggling there. That was a very good performance on our side.

    “We had more games, I would have to think which games. Especially I think City (at home), that was a brilliant game. We had more, I think Arsenal, both games we played very well. We had many games where we were very dominant.

    “Betis, Barcelona. So we had our games where we played very good football.”

  • The CR7 dressing room influence: Some players including Rashford lost form, others dashed to him for praise

    The CR7 dressing room influence: Some players including Rashford lost form, others dashed to him for praise

    Cristiano Ronaldo’s comeback to the Premier League in 2021 did not go as expected.

    Under Ole Gunner Solskjaer, Manchester United had just finished in second place, and following a respectable summer of new additions, there was a growing belief that they could contend for the championship.

    Along with Ronaldo, Raphael Varane joined after a successful stint in Real Madrid, and Jadon Sancho was recruited from Borussia Dortmund.

    While Ronaldo had a splendid season individually, United ended the season in sixth with their lowest-ever point tally.

    Solskjaer was sacked midseason after damaging defeats to Watford, Liverpool and Manchester City.

    Raphael Rangnick was appointed on an interim basis, but he, too, couldn’t do anything to stem the rot.

    Ronaldo’s impact on dressing room

    It has always been up to debate why a team that was performing so well in the 2020/2021 season couldn’t replicate such performances, especially with the arrival of a serial winner and proven goalscorer like Ronaldo.

    As the Athletic reports, the squad might have been overwhelmed by Ronaldo’s presence in the dressing room.

    The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is a known perfectionist. From his gym routines to his high desire to win constantly, it looks like this had a negative impact on the rest of the squad. In his final interview with Piers Morgan as a United player, he openly condemned the club’s facilities.

    Even more interestingly, video analysts observed that there was a specific player who always tried to pass to Ronaldo to receive praise. His form dipped with Ronaldo’s presence at the club given as a part reason. The player is not mentioned.

    Among the players who lost their form include Marcus Rashford and Harry Maguire.

    Rojo slams Ole Gunnar

    It was earlier reported that former Manchester United defender, Marcos Rojo has launched a scathing attack on his former manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and embattled club captain, Harry Maguire.

    Rojo plied his professional trade with the Red Devils between 2014 and 2021 but was rarely used during his time at Old Trafford.

    In a no-holds-barred interview, the combative centre-back revealed Solskjaer had informed him that Maguire had to play every week despite the high-profile errors he committed.

  • As it has been in other games, United lost ‘control’ in Tottenham draw – Eriksen

    As it has been in other games, United lost ‘control’ in Tottenham draw – Eriksen

    Christian Eriksen asserts that Manchester United allowed themselves to lose “control” of their Premier League matchup with Tottenham.

    Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford’s first-half goals had given Erik ten Hag’s team a dominating advantage in North London.

    Pedro Porro and HUneg-Min Son were able to salvage a point in the first game under interim manager Ryan Mason, but they were unable to capitalise on their lead.

    It is not the first time this season United have allowed themselves to be overrun by an opponent chasing the game, with Eriksen conceding they failed to command the game.

    “I think we took a bit of the gas off,” he told BT Sport. “That was our problem. I think it has been [like] that for a few games, where we are sharp and [have not] kept it going.

    “I think we lost a bit of energy, a bit of control, and they got belief, and it went the other way. That’s how it goes normally. When you are 2-0 down, anything can change quickly.

    “We didn’t have the control to finish them off, [and we] gave them the chance to score the first goal. That gave [them] belief.”

    The result leaves United two points off third-place Newcastle United, albeit with two games in hand on the Magpies, and six points ahead of fifth-place Spurs.

    That cushion will likely help them consolidate their top-four spot before too long, but Eriksen cautioned the task must still be completed before it can be celebrated.

    “There’s still a few games to go,” he added. “We need to keep going and get the belief back to finish it off. We need to get it over the line.”

    Manager Ten Hag echoed the midfielder’s comments, though he refused to apportion blame on Bruno Fernandes for a glaring second-half miss.

    The Portuguese, who captained the side in Harry Maguire’s absence through injury, hit the crossbar in a one-on-one situation with Fraser Forster shortly after Porro had pulled one back.

    “[We] don’t blame it on one player,” Ten Hag added.  “We weren’t clinical enough, and I think we had to score more. The goals we conceded were too easy, and we could have avoided them.”

  • Ten Hag questions Fernandes’ fitness ahead of Tottenham showdown

    Ten Hag questions Fernandes’ fitness ahead of Tottenham showdown

    Erik ten Hag has stated that  Bruno Fernandes‘ fitness is  “a question mark” prior to Manchester United’s Premier League matchup with Tottenham.

    The midfielder was forced off with an ankle injury during United’s FA Cup semifinal victory over Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday. He was afterwards photographed wearing a protective boot.

    The loss of Fernandes would be detrimental to Ten Hag’s team going forward, with Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane also out due to injuries, dealing a blow to United’s defensive.

    But on the eve of the trip to Spurs, the manager could not confirm whether Fernandes would be available.

    But the Dutchman is not ready to reveal whether the midfielder will sit out their crucial encounter with Spurs or if he could yet be available to feature.

    “There are some unavailable,” he said. “Martinez, Varane. We have to see how Bruno Fernandes is. We don’t know yet. He is a question mark.

    The win on penalties at Wembley was an effective tonic for an ailing United side after they had lost emphatically at Sevilla to crash out of the Europa League three days earlier.

    David de Gea and Harry Maguire both committed costly errors leading to goals in that game, but Ten Hag has continued to talk up their character as the pair recover.

    “They are resilient,” he said. “They are able to do it. It’s not easy, but they can do it. You can have a bad setback but show your character to bounce back.

    “I am the Manchester United manager. I have to make sure our players are ready tomorrow against a good opponent, good team, good players. I have to focus [and make sure] they have energy.”

    Now, United will face a Tottenham team reeling from a 6-1 rout at the hands of top-four rivals Newcastle United last time out.

    Harry Kane, who has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, scored the only Spurs goal.

    “It’s quite clear, his impact on the game for Spurs,” Ten Hag said of Kane. “We have a plan for that. You have to defend as a team. He’s a clever player, he can have a big impact on the game.”

  • Man Utd will not watch City win a treble, we will ‘do everything’ to deny them that -Ten Hag

    Man Utd will not watch City win a treble, we will ‘do everything’ to deny them that -Ten Hag

    Erik ten Hag has pledged that Manchester United will “do everything” to prevent Manchester City from completing a possible triple when they square off in the FA Cup final.

    After defeating Brighton and Hove Albion on penalties on Sunday at Wembley Stadium, United advanced to its record-tying 21st FA Cup final. Solly March missed his spot-kick, but the other 14 were all successful.

    After City defeated Sheffield United 3-0 in the semifinals thanks to a hat-trick from Riyad Mahrez, the two Manchester clubs will now square off in a major cup final for the first time on June 3.

    With City battling Arsenal in the Premier League title race and being drawn against Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-finals, Pep Guardiola’s team could yet collect three major trophies this term. 

    Doing so would see them match the famous achievements of United’s 1998-99 side, and Ten Hag knows how much the club’s fanbase would relish denying City.

    “I understand, of course, the feelings from the Manchester United fans about it,” the Dutchman said.

    “We will do everything to give them that, to give them the second trophy, everything that I have, everything the team have, everything the staff have, we will give everything to get that done.

    “We can do it, because we proved it, but it’s not an easy job. It’s a great team, but we’ll also have a great team and great players and we can beat them.

    “More than 100 per cent, you can’t do, so the fans can rely on that. We will give it and we will do it against every opponent, it doesn’t matter who it is.

    “Of course, we want to give that against City. We want to give the fans that, sure.”

    Having beaten Newcastle United to lift the EFL Cup in February, United have reached both domestic cup finals in the same season for just the third time. 

    However, the Red Devils have never won both trophies in the same campaign, lifting the FA Cup but losing the EFL Cup showpiece game in the 1982-83 and 1993-94 seasons.

  • Was Hakimi smart? As court declares fmr Utd player Wes Brown bankrupt after divorce with wife

    Was Hakimi smart? As court declares fmr Utd player Wes Brown bankrupt after divorce with wife

    The High Court has declared Wes Brown, a former star for Manchester United and England, bankrupt.

    HMRC filed a bankruptcy case against the former Red Devils defender, who earned £50,000 per week at Old Trafford, on February 27 of this year.

    The High Court gave it their blessing on April 12, and this week, The Gazette published the order.

    According to rumours, he reportedly divorced his 46-year-old wife Leanne, who was a cast member of the TV series Real Housewives of Cheshire, last year.

    The three children’s parents were united in marriage in 2009 at the opulent Peckforton Castle in the Cheshire town of Tarporley.

    After putting their property in Prestbury, Cheshire, on the market for £4.5 million six years prior, Wes and Leanne reduced the price to £2.4 million in 2016.

    Three years later, Leanne remarked, “Yes, we have a wonderful life and a lot of money, and while the money is nice, when you have it, you live in this bubble. The fans can be wonderful, but they can also be incredibly unkind.

    “It must be difficult for football players to live with being praised one minute and despised the next for a poor kick or goal miss.

    We are the ones left to clean up the mess and take the brunt of whatever is left over after their careers are through.

    “Sometimes being alone a lot is difficult. The guys travel a lot, especially if they play for a prestigious club and represent England internationally.”

    Brown is scheduled to participate in a football game next month to support organizations set up in the wake of the Manchester Arena tragedy.

  • Man Utd can do well with right positioning – Eriksen after full injury return

    Man Utd can do well with right positioning – Eriksen after full injury return

    After making a full recovery from his injury, Christian Eriksen anticipates that Manchester United will fight to the end of a demanding season.

    The 2-0 Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest on Sunday marked the Danish international’s first start since January.

    After appearing off the bench against Everton and Sevilla, Eriksen is back to help United compete for additional hardware in the FA Cup and Europa League.

    But he says it is imperative Erik ten Hag’s side do not neglect the league, as they aim to secure Champions League football for next season.

    “Every game now until the end is going to be very important,” he told MUTV. “Someone is going to drop down, [and] someone’s going to go in front.

    “So if we stay on the front foot like we are now, we’re going to be in a very good position and be safe for the Champions League before the season is done.”

    A post-EFL Cup wobble looks to be behind United, though they conceded twice late on against Sevilla in Thursday’s Europa League quarter-final first leg.

    Victory over Forest, particularly with several key stars on the sidelines, emphasised what Eriksen feels to be a strong squad ethos over recent months.

    “They’ve impressed me,” he added. “They’ve kept the intensity, they’ve kept the level for how they play. The games, everything, even from the outside, has been looking good.

    “If you take into account how we started [the season], it’s a completely different feeling around the club and also on the pitch. The feeling around the boys is really good.”

  • Utd’s Alex Fergusson warned Danny Welbeck against playing for Black Stars – Dan Kwaku Yeboah alleges

    Utd’s Alex Fergusson warned Danny Welbeck against playing for Black Stars – Dan Kwaku Yeboah alleges

    Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Fergusson allegedly prevented Danny Welbeck from changing his nationality from England to Ghana, according to Ghanaian sports presenter Dan Kwaku Yeboah.

    Danny Welbeck, a graduate of the Manchester United academy, made his Three Lions debut in a friendly match against the Black Stars in March 2011. The Ghana Football Association began pursuing Welbeck when he was 18 years old, but they were unsuccessful.

    According to Dan Kwaku Yeboah, Danny Welbeck had agreed to play for the Black Stars after he was convinced by the legendary Asamoah Gyan who at the time was playing in the Premier League for Sunderland.

    However, the move was blocked after former Manchester United manager, Sir Alex Fergusson threatened Danny Welbeck who was a teenager at the time.

    Dan Kwaku Yeboah alleged that Sir Alex Fergusson told Welbeck that switching allegiance to play for Ghana will end his Manchester United career.

    “Look, Asamoah Gyan singlehandedly was able to convince Danny Welbeck to come and play for Ghana. Danny Welbeck agreed to play for Ghana.”

    “Asamoah said a day before the boy decided officially, Sir Alex Fergusson heard about it and threatened him not to play for Ghana because that would be the end of his Manchester United career,” Dan Kwaku Yeboah said while discussing how the GFA can use legends to attract Ghanaian players born abroad.

    Meanwhile, Danny Welbeck in December 2022 said there was no official proposal from the Ghana Football Association for him to switch nationality to play for the Black Stars.

    “There wasn’t like an official approach from Ghana to come and play for them or anything like that, so it wasn’t as hard as a decision like people would have thought,” Welbeck said in an interview with UK-based Ghanaian musician, Michael Dapaah.

  • Sevilla coach calls squad to shake off binding ropes, compete for peace of mind

    Sevilla coach calls squad to shake off binding ropes, compete for peace of mind

    Jose Luis Mendilibar, the manager of Sevilla, wants his squad to “release the cords that tie us” and rise to the challenge of Thursday’s Europa League duel with Manchester United.

    Sunday’s 2-0 LaLiga victory over Valencia was achieved despite Mendilibar’s perception that the performance lacked something.

    He hopes that his squad reaches its peak at the ideal time and views it as a big blessing that they can still win even when they are not playing at their best.

    Sevilla’s comeback in Manchester has tied the quarterfinal match at 2-2 going into the second leg.

    Speaking after his team’s victory at Mestalla, Mendilibar said: “We have to gain confidence. Sometimes you don’t play well and the result is with you. That makes you think that when you play well, you’re going to do even better.

    “It’s going to give us peace of mind to be able to compete against Manchester on Thursday.”

    Messy defending from a corner allowed Loic Bade to sneak in to poach Sevilla’s opener against Valencia in the 55th minute, before Suso’s clean hit into the left corner in the 75th minute sealed the win.

    Valencia had Ilaix Moriba sent off late on as the game ran away from them.

    “We’re having success in front of goal,” said Mendilibar. “We’ve scored two goals in each game, It’s what’s giving us life.”

    It is true that Sevilla have scored twice in each of their last four matches, winning twice and being held to draws in the other two games.

    These games have all followed Mendilibar’s appointment on March 21 as successor to Jorge Sampaoli, with Sevilla improving step by step.

    “We hope to be able to remove the ropes that bind us,” Mendilibar said.

    United also won 2-0 on their travels on Sunday, beating Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.

    Mendilibar knows the threat Erik ten Hag’s team will pose, but likes Sevilla’s future prospects and said: “We hope to be able to bring quality into play from now on, not just with goals.”

  • Ten Hag recounts he saved Bruno Fernandes from a red card

    Ten Hag recounts he saved Bruno Fernandes from a red card

    Erik ten Hag used a Dutch expression to explain how he prevented Bruno Fernandes from receiving a pricey Europa League red card, telling Manchester United to “look in the mirror” and stop making costly mistakes.

    Injuries to Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez marred Thursday’s 2-2 draw with Sevilla at Old Trafford, so the United manager placed his support behind Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof, who may both see action in the team.

    He also said it was too soon to gauge the severity of those injuries, even though he has his private suspicions.

    Ten Hag then brought a touch of levity to a routine pre-match press conference, ahead of Sunday’s trip to Nottingham Forest, when he explained why he substituted playmaker Fernandes against Sevilla.

    The Dutch boss suspected his Portuguese star was at risk of being sent off, having thrown the ball away after already being booked, and he guessed any further indiscipline would see the key man ordered off.

    “I don’t want to take a risk. Where I come from, they call it ‘looking a cow in the ass’. We call it that in my region of the Netherlands,” Ten Hag said.

    United were 2-0 up at the time of the substitution, with Christian Eriksen taking over from Fernandes.

    Late own goals from Tyrell Malacia and Maguire scuppered hopes of victory in the first leg of the quarter-final, however, after Marcel Sabitzer’s early double had put United in control.

    “We had back luck definitely with injuries and the goals,” Ten Hag said. “But you can avoid it, and we had to avoid it, so we also have to look in the mirror.”

    Asked about the injuries, Ten Hag could not specify how long Martinez and Varane may face on the sidelines. Reports Martinez may have a broken metatarsal were brushed aside but not denied.

    Ten Hag said: “I don’t have a complete diagnosis, so I can’t say in this moment. When we have news we will give it straight to you.

    “But let’s do the medical, do their assessment and get a complete diagnosis, and then we will give the news. But I think it doesn’t change in this moment. I have an idea, but I don’t go with speculation.”

    He wants Maguire and Lindelof to prove their value to the team, although Maguire must miss next week’s FA Cup semi-final against Brighton and Hove Albion due to suspension.

    Ten Hag said he had “a lot” of faith in both defenders, who have faced criticism in the past, saying: “They are decent centre-halves. We have four or five very good centre-halves who can do the job.”

    What Ten Hag would have no time for is anyone who might see it as a big demand to come into the first team from out in the cold.

    “I think then you’re finding excuses and when you want to find excuses or set excuses then you don’t have to play at Man United and you have to look for another club,” Ten Hag said. “You have to wait for your moment and when your moment is there you have to contribute and to bring your performance, this is what we demand.”

    Scott McTominay and Luke Shaw, both absent against Sevilla, could be back on duty at the City Ground this weekend.

    French forward Anthony Martial will also be involved but is unlikely to play 90 minutes as United manage his fitness after a recent hip problem.

    “Maybe he can, but it’s a risk,” said Ten Hag, “and we can’t take that risk at this moment because we don’t have so many options in the front line with [Marcus] Rashford and [Alejandro] Garnacho injured, so we have to be careful.”

  • Ten Hag laments Utd’s “bad luck” over two own goals draw against Sevilla

    Ten Hag laments Utd’s “bad luck” over two own goals draw against Sevilla

    Erik ten Hag was left bemoaning injury issues as Manchester United lost heartbreakingly late against Sevilla in the Europa League, and Marcel Sabitzer criticised the team for giving up “two stupid goals.”

    Because to Ten Hag’s hosts’ dominance at Old Trafford, United appeared to be in perfect control of the quarterfinal first leg on Thursday after Sabitzer’s first-half double.

    Prior to Harry Maguire’s own goal in the 92nd minute, Tyrell Malacia’s own goal gave Sevilla optimism six minutes from time.

    Ten Hag insisted United’s 2-2 draw was down to bad fortune, as opposed to his substitutes collapsing under late pressure.

    The United manager told BT Sport: “I think we had the game in hand, we were 2-0 up and should have scored three or four. The game was totally on us.

    “Some unlucky moments with injuries. Raphael Varane at half-time, Anthony Martial because it was his first start, Antony and Bruno Fernandes because they were on a yellow card.

    “Then we lose control at an unlucky moment, then another unlucky moment with Lisandro [Martinez] going off injured when we go down to 10.

    “We conceded two own goals, that is bad luck. We have to learn, we have to kill the game, but everything is open for the next game.

    “I know we can do better with those players in the last part of the game, we had to be more composed and could benefit from our counter-attacking opportunities, but we didn’t.

    “We were a little bit unlucky with the defending, two own goals and deflected shots, it’s not a nice night.”

  • Man Utd allegedly eyeing Emile Witbooi, son Mamelodi Sundowns’ Surprise Ralani

    Man Utd allegedly eyeing Emile Witbooi, son Mamelodi Sundowns’ Surprise Ralani

    If rumours are to be believed, Emile Witbooi may get a substantial boost.

    Despite the side being thrashed by the hosts (5-0), Northern Ireland (2-1), and Luxembourg (3-2), the under-16 national team player excelled in the recent UEFA Development Tournament hosted in Poland.

    Witbooi, a student at the School of Excellence, is the son of Mamelodi Sundowns magician Surprise Ralani.

    According to iDiski Times, the 15-year-old, nicknamed Modric after the Croatian legend, reportedly caught the eye of Manchester United and other teams in Europe.

    The article also stated he was not the only player who impressed the scouts that were in attendance.

    U16 coach, Zipho Dlangalala, who had the unenviable task of hastily arranging the team at the last second, said:

    “Without a doubt, we had some of the players that really put up their hands in the event, and the UEFA Technical observers mentioned four of our players that stood out… [Witbooi] like most South African kids that are talented, very skillful and creative… I would wish as a country we need to give them special treatment.”

    Should Witbooi join the club, he would be the third South African to play for the Red Devils at any level after legendary goalkeeper, Gary Bailey and former Bafana Bafana midfielder, Quinton Fortune.

    The latter is currently an ambassador for the club, having also been its U23 coach, before moving on to Reading.

    Song named after Benni McCarthy

    Talking of South Africans at Old Trafford, Benni McCarthy continues to prove an inspiration to his countrymen, Sports Brief reported.

    Hip-hop artists, YoungstaCPT and Shaney Jay releasing a single named after the Red Devils senior team’s forwards coach earlier this year.

    This is the second song where McCarthy is the subject, following TKZee’s late 1990s hit ‘Shibobo’ and now has an accompanying video.

  • ‘We don’t force things’ with Martial on the squad list – Ten Hag

    ‘We don’t force things’ with Martial on the squad list – Ten Hag

    Manager Erik ten Hag, of Manchester United said his team performs best with Anthony Martial on the roster.

    Martial has struggled with injuries during his time at Old Trafford since arriving from Monaco in 2015. The attacker was loaned to Sevilla for the second half of last season, making just one goal in 12 outings.

    A strong pre-season meant this campaign started with optimism, though he has again been in and out of the line-up because of his fitness with Marcus Rashford’s goals proving crucial in his absence.

    With Rashford ruled out for several games with a muscle injury and January loan signing Wout Weghorst struggling in front of goal, Ten Hag needs Martial to start firing if United are to add more silverware to the EFL Cup they lifted in February, which ended a six-year trophy drought.

    Ten Hag is confident the 27-year-old will be a big help over the rest of the season, though he will not rush the forward back to the team before he is ready despite him scoring off the bench in the 2-0 victory over Everton at the weekend.

    “We don’t have to force things,” Ten Hag told reporters. “We are careful. The front line against Everton worked really well.

    “When he [Martial] is in the team, we play our best football and we have our best results as a team. The time he needs for a goal is less. I defend him because I point to the stats and see how he contributes.”

  • Man Unt star Rashford to miss few games after ankle injury in Europa League rule out

    Man Unt star Rashford to miss few games after ankle injury in Europa League rule out

    Marcus Rashford was replaced in the 80th minute of Manchester United’s 2-0 victory against Everton on Saturday due to a muscle injury.

    Rashford will be out for a few matches as well as the opening leg of the club’s Europa League quarterfinal against Sevilla on Thursday.

    In all competitions this season, he has scored 28 goals.

    Rashford has been a key part of the club’s revival this season under Erik ten Hag by scoring 28 goals in all competitions, including one at Wembley in February which helped them lift the Carabao Cup, the first available trophy of the season.

  • Ten Hag wants a reunion with Kudus for more goals, leads race for bid

    Ten Hag wants a reunion with Kudus for more goals, leads race for bid

    Mohammed Kudus of Ghana and Ajax has drawn greater interest from Manchester United as a result of his fascinating performances thus far this season.

    Five other clubs are vying for the services of the gifted footballer, but the Premier League team is in the lead.

    After Ajax vetoed the transfer last summer, Kudus, who nearly left the team to sign a deal with Everton in search of playing time, is currently having his best-ever season.

    The 22-year-old has been Ajax’s marksman especially in the Eredivisie scoring 11 and assisting twice. He carried his monstrous form with him to the 2022 World Cup while playing for Ghana and stood out once more with great performances in Ghana’s three group games.

    The performance drew a number of interest from clubs across the top European Leagues including Borrusia Dortmund, Barcelona, and Manchester United.

    Ajax, however, did not buy into the idea of selling him that early prompting some of the clubs to give up.

    Meanwhile, Manchester United manager Erik Ten Haag seems to have a genuine interest in reuniting with Mohammed Kudus to help solve his attacking problems.

    Ten Haag since taking over from Ragnick in the summer has largely relied on Marcus Rashford for goals and is keen on bringing in more options upfront in the summer and Kudus seems to tick the required boxes for what Manchester United lacks.

    Before bowing out of the UEFA Champions League group stages, Kudus was a force to reckon with scoring four goals in six games.

    He is currently nursing a muscle injury which he picked up last week and is expected to be back on the pitch in two weeks.

  • Christian Eriksen back to training amidst club’s setbacks

    Christian Eriksen back to training amidst club’s setbacks

    Marcus Rashford’s 27th-minute goal helped Manchester United defeat Brentford 1-0 on Wednesday night at Old Trafford to go back on track.

    The last time United won a league game was on February 19, when they defeated Leicester City 3-0, one week before defeating Newcastle United 2-0 in the Carabao Cup final.

    The Red Devils also easily advanced to the FA Cup semifinal with victories over Fulham (3-1) and Real Betis (5-1) on aggregate in the UEFA Europa League quarterfinals, respectively.

    Erik Ten Hag’s success at the club has been built on the midfield and resurgence of Marcus Rashford, but with seven games of suspension this year for Casemiro due to multiple red cards and a severe injury to Christian Eriksen, it has been quite a challenging ride, according to talkSPORT.

    Eriksen returns to full training

    The Dane has been out injured since suffering an ankle injury against Reading in the FA Cup and has been a big blow to the team, coupled with Casemiro’s suspensions.

    The club signed Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer on loan from Bayern Munich until the end of the season to cover for the former Tottenham midfielder.

    According to Sun UK, he took part in full training yesterday and is in contention to make the matchday squad for the crucial game against Everton.

    Rangnick praises Ten Hag over Sabitzer

    Sports Brief reported that former Manchester United boss and Austrian national team coach Ralf Rangnick praised the club for improving Marcel Sabitzer since his move to Old Trafford.

    Rangnick highlighted a difference in Sabitzer’s confidence since he moved to England compared to when he was at Bayern.

    The Red Devils have expressed the desire to make the move permanent, but former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel’s appointment at the German club could be a stumbling block.

  • Man Utd fined £65,000 by FA misconduct towards referee in last month’s FA Cup tie

    Man Utd fined £65,000 by FA misconduct towards referee in last month’s FA Cup tie

    Manchester United has been slapped with a  £65,000 for encircling the referee during their FA Cup match against Fulham last month.

    ‘Failing to ensure players handled themselves in an orderly manner,’ United has acknowledged.

    Following a handball by Willian in the penalty area in the second half, United players complained to referee Chris Kavanagh about it.

    When the penalty was eventually awarded, Willian and Fulham manager Marco Silva received red cards in response to their indignation at the decision, which was made following a VAR check.

    Aleksandar Mitrovic was also later sent off and handed an eight-match ban after shoving Kavanagh. 

    Both Mitrovic and Silva later apologised to Kavanagh for the incident, with the striker admitting he ‘should not have put his hands on him’. 

    There were no punishments for United players at the time, but the FA has now given details of the club’s fine after charging them two weeks ago.

    A statement issued by the FA on Thursday read: ‘Manchester United FC has been fined £65,000 after its players surrounded a match official during the 71st minute of their tie against Fulham FC in the FA Cup on Sunday, March 19, 2023.

    ‘The club admitted that it failed to ensure its players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion and do not behave in a way which is improper.

    ‘Manchester United FC’s fine was imposed by an independent Regulatory Commission following a subsequent hearing.’

    United trailed 1-0 at the time of the incident, but the Cottagers fell apart after having two players sent off and eventually lost 3-1 after two goals from Bruno Fernandes and one from Marcel Sabitzer. 

    Erik ten Hag’s side will next play in the competition against Brighton in the semi-final on April 23, with Man City set to face Sheffield United in the other final four clash a day earlier. 

    Despite patchy league form in recent weeks, the Red Devils could still secure an unlikely treble if they add FA Cup and Europa League medals to their League Cup success in February.

  • Man Utd: Ten Hag wants players to behave like ‘robots’ to gain finesse 

    Man Utd: Ten Hag wants players to behave like ‘robots’ to gain finesse 

    Erik ten Hag is aware that Manchester United’s players are only human, but he still believes that in order for them to succeed, they must “act as robots.”

    On Sunday, when United made their Premier League comeback against top-four rivals Newcastle United, they suffered a lacklustre 2-0 loss.

    Despite their success in the FA Cup and Europa League, they have only earned one point in their last three games in the top flight, placing them fifth in the standings.

    Ten Hag, however, has no doubt his squad can rediscover their best.

    “I agree we return to old habits, but I also know there are fluctuations,” he told The Guardian. “[Players] are not robots. But we have to act as robots, as machines.

    “We have to expect and demand of our players that they match the standards so when we are not doing [that] we are disappointed because that is our job.

    “We have shown in so many games that [we can do that]. It was a tough, very strong belief, [with] confidence and passion and togetherness.

    “We have, and have shown it in many games. We have shown we can win the games, but you have to do it in every game because that is the demand of Manchester United.”

    United can push themselves back into the Champions League qualification places with a win over Brentford on Wednesday, having games in hand on fourth-place Tottenham.

    Ten Hag will also have one eye on next week’s return to Europa League action, with the club set to host Sevilla a week on Thursday in the first leg of their quarter-final clash.

  • Stellini upset over lack of control as Tottenham begins new journey without Conte

    Stellini upset over lack of control as Tottenham begins new journey without Conte

    Tottenham began life without Antonio Conte on Monday by drawing 1-1 away to struggling Everton. Cristian Stellini lamented Tottenham’s lack of control.

    The 68th-minute penalty from Harry Kane appeared to be enough for Spurs to win their first game under Stellini.

    At Goodison Park, however, Michael Keane’s outstanding late long-range goal gave the Toffees a crucial point, frustrating their opponents.

    Stellini was especially irritated by the result, particularly given Spurs’ man advantage for most of the second half after Abdoulaye Doucoure’s red card.

    “My feeling now is that we have lost two points,” he told Sky Sports. “We had an [extra] man against them, we needed to control the game.

    “We tried to do [that] but not in the way I expect. With 11 players, we have to do much better. You control the game with the ball, not without.”

    Spurs were also reduced to 10 men in the final stages when Lucas Moura was dismissed for a late lunge on Keane before his equaliser.

    Stellini, who was stood near Doucoure when he pushed Kane in the face to earn his red, believed both calls were fair from referee David Coote.

    “I think Harry conceded a lot of tackles today before the red card,” he said. “Lucas, his tackle was too dangerous. Both of the red cards are clear for me.”

    Despite missing out on a win, the draw moved Tottenham back into the top four, level on 50 points with Newcastle United and Manchester United.

    Their rivals have two games in hand each, but Stellini believes Spurs can draw on their experience from last season’s battle for Champions League qualification.

    “It will be a tough race,” he conceded. “But one year ago, we had 51 points. We were fifth, and today, we are fourth.

    “We are in the same position [as] last season. We have to be ready to fight. Now we think about the next game.”

  • Elanga’s limited playing time in Man Utd is ‘frustrating’ him

    Elanga’s limited playing time in Man Utd is ‘frustrating’ him

    Anthony Elanga has lashed out at Manchester United for not giving him enough playing time, and he has suggested he should have joined Barcelona in January.

    For the Red Devils this season, the Sweden winger has only made seven starts, but he has been used 17 times as a substitute.

    During the previous transfer window, Elanga was rumoured to be interested in moving to teams like LaLiga leaders Barca and Premier League underachievers Everton, but a deal never materialised.

    In response to a question about a potential move to Camp Nou at the beginning of the year, he told the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet: “That was in January, I can’t focus on that now.

    “The best thing I can do is focus on the rest of the season and then I will get to talk to the club.

    “I love the club, but it’s important for me to play. I’m still young. We have spoken to the club and they know what is required and I know what is required.”

    The 20-year-old hopes United boss Erik ten Hag gives him more opportunities and is determined to take his chances when they come along.

    He added: “It is frustrating. You want to play, it’s important. But whether you play or not, it’s up to the coach not me. I have spoken to Erik [ten Hag] and it is private between the two of us. I know what he wants me to do and I just keep training hard.

    “When the opportunity comes, I just have to be ready to take it. We have a lot of conversations, not only about [his lack of opportunities] but also what is happening around. That’s the good thing about the club, we talk a lot and they help me a lot.”

  • Man Utd owners await revised offers for Premier League stalwarts

    Man Utd owners await revised offers for Premier League stalwarts

    Manchester United’s owners were waiting for new bids from a Qatari banker and British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe on Thursday, after the deadline for revised bids to buy the Premier League giants had passed.

    According to reports, bidders were originally told they had until 2100 GMT on Wednesday to submit new bids, but that deadline has now been extended.

    It is unknown when the new cut-off will be implemented. The only bidders who have made their intentions public are Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani, the chairman of Qatar Islamic Bank, and Ratcliffe, the founder of chemicals giant INEOS.

    A first round of bidding took place last month, and it has been reported that there are as many as eight different potential investors for the club owned by the American Glazer family, who are massively unpopular with Manchester United fans.

    The BBC said several other proposed investors made their submissions by the Wednesday deadline.

    No figures have been revealed but one or more of the initial bids was understood to be in the region of £4.5 billion ($5.5 billion).

    That would make Manchester United — who have not won the Premier League for a decade — the most expensive sports club in history, although it would be short of the £6 billion valuation reportedly placed on United by the Glazers.

    United’s owners announced in November they were conducting a strategic review, with the sale of the club one option being considered. Sheikh Jassim is bidding for 100 percent control, aiming to return the club to its “former glories”.

    A source close to Sheikh Jassim’s bid told AFP he remains confident his bid is “the best for the club, fans and local community”.

    ‘Stupid prices’ INEOS chemical company founder Ratcliffe, a boyhood United fan, wants to buy the combined Glazer shareholding of 69 percent of the 20-time English champions. The 70-year-old told the Wall Street Journal this week he was not interested in paying “stupid prices” in a bidding war for one of football’s most iconic clubs.

    Ratcliffe, who already owns French club Nice, said his interest in United would be “purely in winning things”, calling the club a “community asset”, rather than a financial one.

    The Glazers have angered many United fans by saddling the club with huge debts since they took over in 2005.

    They appeared ready to cash out at an enormous profit when they invited external investment in November.

    However, they could yet shun the option of selling a controlling stake in the club, with other parties understood to be interested in a minority shareholding.

    Ratcliffe visited Old Trafford last week along with INEOS representatives, a day after a delegation from Sheikh Jassim’s group toured the club’s stadium and training ground.

  • Man Utd to take on Sevilla in quarterfinals of Europa League

    Man Utd to take on Sevilla in quarterfinals of Europa League

    Manchester United will meet Spanish side Sevilla in the quarter-finals of the Europa League.

    Should they advance, Erik ten Hag’s side will meet either Juventus – whose squad includes former United midfielder Paul Pogba – or Arsenal’s conquerors Sporting Lisbon in the semi-finals.

    In the other last-eight ties, Roma face Feyenoord and Bayer Leverkusen meet Union Saint-Gilloise.

    The first legs take place on 13 April, with the return games on 20 April.

    Europa League quarter-final draw

    Manchester United v Sevilla

    Juventus v Sporting Lisbon

    Bayer Leverkusen v Union Saint-Gilloise

    Feyenoord v Roma

    Source: BBC

  • Spalletti desires that his Napoli team ‘become folklore’

    Spalletti desires that his Napoli team ‘become folklore’

    By making it to their first-ever Champions League quarterfinals, Napoli will “become folklore,” according to Luciano Spalletti, who wants his team to do so.

    The dominant Serie A team is on the verge of advancing to the round of eight of Europe’s top club competition after defeating Eintracht Frankfurt 2-0 in the first leg in Germany.

    The Partenopei will undoubtedly fancy their chances of completing the task at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium given their commanding 18-point lead in Serie A and unbeaten streak of 11 home Champions League games.

    However, they were ultimately eliminated from the competition on the one previous occasion they had won a knockout match, giving up a 3-1 lead before losing 5-4 on aggregate  at this stage against Chelsea in the 2011-12 season.

    Nevertheless, Spalletti knows what is at stake for the club, and issued a rallying cry to his players in his pre-match press conference.

    “Great teams are made up of great players,” he said. “There’s history to be written in tomorrow’s game. Our city is replete with big stories and big personalities. We’re keen to become part of Naples’ history and become folklore in this city. 

    “You can compare it to the first final of the season. I don’t think that can put pressure on the side, because I’ve seen them deal with many positive and negative situations already this term.

    “Seeing as it is practically a final, I want to see the attitude of a team that is starved and wants a result. I’ve seen them in training all term, and they never let their heads drop.

    “Now, the test is to forget what has happened in the past and focus on getting the job done now.”

  • Nagelsmann bent on keeping Pavard after Bayern defender nets two in Augsburg-Bayern clash

    Nagelsmann bent on keeping Pavard after Bayern defender nets two in Augsburg-Bayern clash

    After scoring twice in the thrilling 5-3 victory over Augsburg on Saturday for the Bundesliga leaders, Julian Nagelsmann is eager to keep Benjamin Pavard at Bayern Munich.

    Mergim Berisha scored the opening goal for Augsburg early on, but Bayern quickly jumped out to a 4-1 lead by halftime thanks to goals from Joao Cancelo and Leroy Sane on either side of Pavard’s hat trick.

    Alphonso Davies’ goal allowed Bayern to win for the fourth time in a row with relative ease, despite Berisha completing his own hat trick after the break and Irvin Cardona also scoring late.

    The France international’s contract is set to expire next year, and Pavard has been linked to Barcelona, Inter, and Manchester United. In November, Pavard discussed the possibility of leaving Bayern for a new endeavour.

    Having seen the 26-year-old mark his 150th competitive Bayern outing with his first double for the club, Nagelsmann said: “Of course I want to keep Benjamin at Bayern. 

    “Playing in that position that he loves as a centre-back… he played very well today. So yes, I’d love to keep him.”

    Despite seeing Augsburg put to the sword in a typically ruthless Bayern performance, Nagelsmann was not impressed with some aspects of the hosts’ display.  

    “I’m happy with the result. It’s job done today, that was important,” Nagelsmann said.

    “It was very similar to the game in the DFB-Pokal against Augsburg [a 5-2 win in October], it was a bit chaotic right from the start. We conceded the goal right away.

    “Then we played really well for 30 minutes, everything was done well on our offensive side. In the second half, we did not have as much control or pressure any more.

    “The game was a little bit too open in my opinion, we could have scored a couple more goals, but the result is above everything. 

    “Not everything was perfect on the offensive or defensive side, but all in all, it’s all about the three points.”

  • Pogba’s drop from Juventus squad: Fans say ‘he sabotages himself ‘

    Pogba’s drop from Juventus squad: Fans say ‘he sabotages himself ‘

    Paul Pogba transferred to Manchester United from Juventus for a world record fee of £89 million in 2016, having moved to Italy from the Red Devils academy four years prior.

    He endured difficult times at Old Trafford, often disrupted by injuries and inconsistent performances which made him a villain in the eyes of United fans.

    The French international rejoined Juventus for the second time on a free transfer at the end of last season, after Man United brought his time there to an end after a six-year relationship.

    Pogba dropped for disciplinary reasons

    Pogba made his second debut for the Bianconeri on February 28 in the Turin derby against Torino, following a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a knee injury that ruled him out of the 2022 World Cup, as reported by Goal.

    As reported by Sky Italia, the Frenchman has been dropped from the squad to face SC Freiburg in the UEFA Europa League later today after he turned up for Wednesday’s retreat late, much to the anger of manager, Massimiliano Allegri.

    Fan reactions to Pogba’s indiscipline

    The 29-year-old is no stranger to disciplinary issues, having previously clashed with Jose Mourinho during the Portuguese manager’s time with the Red Devils. This famously led to the Special One calling the World Cup winner a ‘virus’.

    @jennaGottFans_ wrote: ”Why is he like this? Man that is amazingly talented but still finds a way to sabotage himself”

    @prettycachy wrote: ”This was what was said about him in Manchester United”

    @Danny_UTD7 wrote: ”A player with a lot of talent but lacks discipline, so sad”

    @whitefooty wrote: ”Jose Mourinho told us all about his character”

    Last year, he angered Allegri during injury rehab by undertaking a very risky personal activity while on holiday.

    Pogba uploaded a video of himself on a ski trip despite nursing a knee injury that delayed his second Juve debut.

    Pogba upsets Allegri with adventure As Sports Brief previously reported, this was not the first time Pogba has been in trouble since his return to Juventus.

  • Ten Hag wins Manager of the Month honours as Man Utd completes a February double

    Ten Hag wins Manager of the Month honours as Man Utd completes a February double

    After Marcus Rashford won the monthly players’ award, Erik ten Hag has been named the Premier League’s Manager of the Month for February, giving Manchester United a hat trick.

    The only blemish on United’s record last month was a 2-2 draw at home to Leeds United, which was managed by Ten Hag. Ten Hag oversaw a return of 10 points from four Premier League games for United.

    United improved on that Leeds draw by defeating their adversaries 2-0 in the rematch at Elland Road four days later, along with victories over Crystal Palace and Leicester City.

    By defeating Newcastle United to win the EFL Cup and eliminating Barcelona from the Europa League in February, Ten Hag’s team ended a nearly six-year trophy drought. They also carried their league form into other competitions.

    Having also received the award last September, Ten Hag’s second monthly prize brings him level with other two-time winners including Kenny Dalglish, Roberto Mancini and Thomas Tuchel. 

    While United enjoyed an excellent February, March began with the joint-heaviest competitive defeat in their illustrious history as they were hammered 7-0 by Liverpool at Anfield.

    Having bounced back with a 4-1 Europa League win over Real Betis on Thursday, United welcome Southampton to Old Trafford on Sunday, looking to extend an 11-match unbeaten streak at home in the Premier League (W9 D2).

  • Collina demands more precise stoppage times after Liverpool defeated Man Utd 7-0

    Collina demands more precise stoppage times after Liverpool defeated Man Utd 7-0

    Regardless of the situation, Pierluigi Collina has urged referees to add the appropriate amount of stoppage time at the conclusion of games.

    The match between Liverpool and Manchester United on Sunday at Anfield was discussed by FIFA’s head of refereeing. Only three minutes were added to the game’s final score, which resulted in a 7-0 victory for the hosts despite the fact that six goals were scored in a second half that also featured 10 substitutions and a VAR delay.

    Although games at the World Cup in Qatar were extended by additional time that was meant to reflect actual time lost during the 90 minutes, this trend has largely not continued in club football.

    “Last weekend in the Premier League, there were 10 matches,” Collina told reporters. “Four had additional time of 10 minutes or more [across the first half and second half], and two should have been higher but weren’t only because they had scores of 7-0 and 4-0.

    “In the game at Liverpool, there was four minutes added, one in the first half and three in the second. But there were six goals in the second half.

    “Maybe at some point in the future we will have a rule which says: if the difference between the two sides is big, the additional time is not to be given. But this would be in the laws of the game.

    “Now it is common sense, but it is [only] common sense when it doesn’t affect someone.

    “I can understand that showing the right amount of time when it is 7-0 is difficult to understand. But in some competitions, the goal difference in the entire competition may be decisive at the end for the ranking.

    “So, even one goal scored or not scored could make the difference.”

    Former referee Collina believes adding on as much time as necessary would eventually stamp out time-wasting, much like the introduction of VAR appeared to reduce the amount of simulation in the game. 

    “It’s time to compensate time that was not played during the match,” he said. “We are not considering to go from 70 to 75. No, we want to avoid just playing 43 minutes.

    “The effective time at Aston Villa vs Brentford [earlier this season] was 43 minutes. I don’t think someone wants to pay to watch a match that lasts 43 minutes.

    “We have seen implementing VAR has reduced simulation. How many cards are now given for simulation? Very little because the players know it is meaningless to try.

    “I am convinced time-wasting will be reduced when players know it is meaningless to waste time because that time is compensated.”

  • Man Utd-Real Betis: Ten Hag justifies Bruno Fernandes’ bad tackle on Bravo

    Man Utd-Real Betis: Ten Hag justifies Bruno Fernandes’ bad tackle on Bravo

    Manchester United bounced back from their embarrassing 7-0 loss to Liverpool at the weekend by beating Real Betis 4-1 in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League round of 16. Marcus Rashford, Antony, Bruno Fernandes and Wout Weghorst were all on the scoresheet for the Red Devils, and a former Premier League star Ayoze Perez got the only goal for the Spanish team.

    Fernandes, who retained his captaincy after his antics against Liverpool, got fans talking after he escaped with only a yellow card after a horror tackle on former Manchester City goalkeeper Claudio Bravo.

    The Portuguese went in with a two-foot lunge at the Chilean goalkeeper, who got to the ball first but then got caught on the shin by the United captain. The referee immediately issued a yellow card, as reported by Sun UK.

    Ten Hag defends Fernandes

    United boss Erik Ten Hag defended his captain for the bad tackle during his post-match conference with BT Sport, which Manchester Evening News quoted. ”It’s his strength and his passion, but you are right. Sometimes he has to control that, and he has to bring it.

    It is his strength, and when it’s too much, it becomes a weakness. That’s true, and he knows that, and there are always small margins,” he said.

    The former Ajax boss also praised how his captain adapted to his role change and felt he was the best player on the pitch

    ”I think he was the best player on the pitch. It shows his personality. He played a little deeper role tonight, I asked him to do, and I think he was brilliant,” he added.

    Ten Hag instructs players to score more goals Sports Brief earlier reported that United boss Erik Ten Hag appeared to tell his players to score more goals despite being 4-1 up against Real Betis.

    The Dutch manager named an unchanged XI after the loss to Liverpool. While his team were four goals up, he made a gesture with three fingers which fans interpreted meant he wanted three more goals.

    The former Ajax boss ended United’s trophy drought by winning the Carabao Cup and currently has the team on 21 home games unbeaten run.

  • Ferguson likely to blacklist us after Man Utd 7-0 loss to Liverpool – Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand

    Ferguson likely to blacklist us after Man Utd 7-0 loss to Liverpool – Patrice Evra, Rio Ferdinand

    After their team’s humiliating 7-0 loss to Liverpool, former Manchester United teammates Patrice Evra and Rio Ferdinand discussed their time playing at Anfield.

    The two contend that it is impossible to display weakness at Anfield, but Manchester United misunderstood the venue and as a result, they were humiliated by their fiercest rivals.

    On March 5, 2023, Manchester United, the newly crowned Carabao Cup champions, were humiliated and reduced to nothing at Anfield as Liverpool defeated their longtime rivals Manchester United with a crushing victory.

    United has suffered its joint-heaviest defeat ever in competitive play since the club was founded in 1878 after conceding seven goals without a response.

    Reacting to the defeat, Patrice Evra and Rio Ferdinand revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson used to blacklist them for more than two weeks if they lose to Liverpool at Anfield so they were always afraid to disappoint him at the venue.

    “Until you go to Anfield and play as a Man United player, you will never know what it is. It’s a cauldron and it’s fire. Ferguson used to rest players before our games at Anfield and it was not because those players were tied but was to prepare them mentally.

    “Winning at Anfield is the best feeling and losing there is the worst feeling ever. Sometimes when we lose at Anfield, Fergusson won’t talk to us for two weeks,” the duo said in a podcast.

  • Liverpool thrash Man Utd to offset disappointing season

    Liverpool thrash Man Utd to offset disappointing season

    With a humiliating and historic 7-0 thrashing at Anfield, Liverpool eliminated Manchester United’s chances of joining the title race as Mohamed Salah broke the record for Premier League goals scored.

    Darwin Nunez and Gakpo both scored twice as the Reds destroyed their arch-rivals for the biggest triumph in the series’ 211-match history, paving the way for the future of their forward line.

    The visitors, who have not triumphed at this venue since Jurgen Klopp’s first match against them in January 2016, were in disarray after three of their goals came in a seven-minute span either side of halftime.

    The soon-to-be the last man standing of Liverpool’s famed front three Salah then provided a timely reminder of the standards that pair have to meet with two goals of his own – either side of a Nunez header – to go past Robbie Fowler as the club’s record Premier League scorer with his 128th and 129th goals.

    Substitute Roberto Firmino, who on Friday told the club he would not be seeking a contract extension and would end his eight-year stay in the summer, applied the finishing touches with the seventh.

    Last season Liverpool won 5-0 at Old Trafford and 4-0 at home but that was a side who were competing for an unprecedented quadruple.

    This version has struggled for most of the season but appear to be gathering ominous momentum at just the right time.

    Even overturning a 5-2 Champions League first-leg deficit to Real Madrid next week now does not seem as impossible.

    Erik ten Hag’s side had lost just three of their last 22 league matches and their haul of 23 points since the World Cup resumption was the most of any team but by the end, with chants of ‘Ole’ rolling off the Kop, former United defender Gary Neville said they had played like schoolboys.

    They had arrived looking to force their way into the reckoning at the top but defeat left them nine points behind second-placed Manchester City and 14 adrift of leaders Arsenal and even with a match in hand talk of a title bid now looks fanciful.

    Liverpool, however, are upwardly mobile as 13 points from the last 15 and a fifth successive clean sheet has them breathing down the neck of fourth-placed Tottenham, just three points behind with a match in hand and Spurs still to visit Anfield.

    In an almost symbolic handing over of the baton Gakpo, now occupying a similar deeper-lying forward role to Firmino but with potentially more goal threat, seized the occasion with the important opening goal. And what a brilliant one it was.

    Just two minutes before half-time Andy Robertson’s through-ball inside Fred allowed the Netherlands international to cut inside Raphael Varane and chop back onto his right foot to caress a shot past David De Gea.

    It was Liverpool’s first shot on target but would not be their last as two minutes after the break 19-year-old Harvey Elliott started the move which led to his assist for the second goal.

    Having intercepted a pass deep in United territory the ball was moved on to Fabinho who chipped over the back four to Salah and while his cross was blocked by Luke Shaw, Elliott reacted quickest to whip a cross for Nunez to head home from close range.

    Three minutes later the game was over as a contest as Jordan Henderson collected Bruno Fernandes’ poor cross aimed at no one, Gakpo then picked up the ball just outside his own penalty area and released Salah.

    The Egypt international teased Lisandro Martinez, eventually putting the World Cup winner on the turf, as he played in the on-rushing Gakpo to clip over De Gea.

    Goalkeeper Alisson Becker’s mis-control briefly gave Fernandes the hope of pulling one back quickly but the ball was scrambled clear and when Nunez broke in a four-on-three there was only likely to be one outcome.

    The Uruguay international’s first attempt at a pass was blocked by Scott McTominay but he picked out Salah with the rebound, deflected off the United midfielder, and he lashed home off the underside of the crossbar with his weaker right foot.

    He was the first Liverpool player to score in six consecutive appearances in all competitions against Manchester United but he was not finished there and with visiting fans heading for the exit Nunez’s clever backwards header from Henderson’s cross had the crowd demanding demanding “We want six.”

    Salah duly delivered with his record-breaking goal, courtesy of a fortunate rebound off Firmino before the substitute had the final say in the 88th minute to inflict United’s heaviest defeat since losing 7-0 to Wolves on Boxing Day 1931.

  • FA Cup quarterfinal draw: Vincent Kompany sets up crunch matchup with former team, Man City

    FA Cup quarterfinal draw: Vincent Kompany sets up crunch matchup with former team, Man City

    All eight teams that qualified for the last eight of the FA Cup quarterfinal draw have now learned who their opponents will be. Grimsby is the lowest-ranked team currently vying for a semi-final spot, while both ends of the Manchester United spectrum are among the top teams still competing.

    According to Metro UK, United defeated West Ham United 3-1 in the fifth round on Wednesday night at Old Trafford, securing a spot in the quarterfinals. Burnley stunned Fleetwood 1-0, while City advanced after defeating Bristol City 3-0 on Tuesday.

    In other matches, Sheffield United eliminated Southampton while Grimsby Town eliminated Tottenham Hotspur by a score of 1-0.

    FA Cup quarter-final draw Fulham’s qualification for the quarters has now earned them a trip to Old Trafford to face quadruple-chasing Man United. Elsewhere, Vincent Kompany will return to his former club as his Burnley side take on Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

    League Two side Grimsby Town have earned themselves a tie with Brighton, while Sheffield United are scheduled to face Blackburn Rovers in the next round.

    FA Cup last eight draw in full: Manchester City vs Burnley Manchester United vs Fulham Brighton vs Grimsby Town Sheffield United vs Blackburn Rovers.

    Man United fans in love with Rashford

    Earlier, Sports Brief reported Manchester United fans could not help but admire Marcus Rashford’s reaction to his side conceding the first goal against West Ham in the FA Cup on Wednesday, March 1.

    David Moyes’ side took the lead through Said Benrahma in the 54th minute, but they were pegged back as Nayef Aguerd scored an own goal after being put under pressure from Wout Weghorst.

    An interesting photo has emerged online showing Rashford asking Anthony Elanga for his shirt as he prepared to come on for his side, who were trailing at the time.

  • FA Cup: Utd fans admire Marcus Rashford’s reaction, after team lost to West Ham

    FA Cup: Utd fans admire Marcus Rashford’s reaction, after team lost to West Ham

    Marcus Rashford’s response after his team’s FA Cup match loss to West Ham on March 1 was something that Manchester United supporters could not help but admire. The United team overcame a goal deficit to defeat the struggling Hammers 3-1 in the Premier League.

    Said Benrahma gave David Moyes’ team the lead in the 54th minute, but they were soon beaten when Nayef Aguerd scored an own goal while under pressure from Wout Weghorst.

    As the game lurched towards a draw, Alejandro Garnacho rose to the occasion and curled a stunning goal past Alphonse Areola. Midfielder Fred then sealed the victory by steering in a goal in stoppage time.

    Rashford was ready for action It was yet another win for Erik Ten Hag’s side, who are now unbeaten in 19 games at Old Trafford. The win was a bit different from what fans have gotten used to in recent months, as Rashford was not on the scoresheet this time.

    However, the 24-year-old was ready for action as soon as United conceded the first goal. An interesting photo has emerged online showing Rashford asking Anthony Elanga for his shirt as he prepared to come on for his side, who were trailing at the time.

    The photo, shared on ESPN’s Twitter, was a clear demonstration of the elite mentality Rashford currently has and the confidence that scoring for his team has brought to his game. Rashford clearly believed he was going to come on and score and help his side to extend their unbeaten run at Old Trafford.

    The England forward currently has 25 goals this season across all competitions. Meanwhile, United’s quadruple hopes are still alive as they will face Fulham in the quarter finals of the FA Cup.

  • Sabitzer’s IG post hints of player’s interest in permanent Man Utd transfer

    Sabitzer’s IG post hints of player’s interest in permanent Man Utd transfer

    Fans of Man Utd now believe Marcel Sabitzer is interested in making a long-term commitment to the team.

    This comes at a time when the Bayern Munich player on loan posted a “message” on his Instagram page.

    Following the protracted injury to Christian Eriksen, Sabitzer, 28, joined Manchester United in January.

    Fans discovered an intriguing feature on the Austrian’s Instagram page even though he has been a member of Bayern since the summer of 2021.

    This is how many posts he’s made about Bayern and United.

    Sabitzer posted just three times to his Instagram while with the German champions, including two posts announcing his transfer from RB Leipzig.

    However, since joining the Red Devils he has already posted 12 times since February 2.

    And fans are convinced they know the cryptic message behind it.

    One fan said: “No reason for us not to sign him up permanently!

    “Need to build that quality in depth he has the mentality and quality to be a united player.”

    A second said: “He loves United more than Bayern… he knows he will just end up on the bench at Bayern.

    “A player of his calibre needs to be playing games which he will be doing at United. We need players like him. He’s a machine. ❤️❤️🔥🔥.”

    While a third wrote: “We need him permanently, we need to have a big squad with quality.”

    However, some fans noted the reason behind the number of posts could be related to United’s PR and marketing departments.

    One fan argued: “Tbf the club definitely makes our players do this – look how suddenly two or three of our players have made TikTok accounts at the same time.”

    A second user commented: “Man United have a PR team that handles Social Media for players. Bayern seem like they don’t.

    “I am pretty sure it has been mentioned that a lot of United players have contractual obligations in their contracts regarding social media as well.”

    “I mean, probably has a clause in his contract stating he has to post x-amount of posts for engagement/global branding,” added a third.

    On the subject of a permanent deal for Sabitzer and Wout Weghorst, Erik ten Hag was coy.

    He said: “I think it is much too quick [to decide]. [It is] much too soon to talk about that.

    “First, we are in this season and that is where the focus has to be.

  • Ten Hag: Punditry attitude of Club legends affects Man Utd players

    Ten Hag: Punditry attitude of Club legends affects Man Utd players

    The constant public commentary and criticism of the team in the media from former Manchester United players, according to Erik ten Hag, is “difficult” for his players.

    Former United players Peter Schmeichel, Roy Keane, Paul Scholes, Rio Ferdinand, and Gary Neville all now work in the media and frequently examine the club’s situation.

    Following Ten Hag’s Europa League victory over Barcelona this week, some of those former players have praised the team. Schmeichel referred to Ten Hag’s performance as “vintage Sir Alex Ferguson,” which prompted comparisons to previous teams.

    The Dutchman acknowledged that players were burdened by constant debate and scrutiny, but he also said they needed to be able to accept it as a necessary part of the job.

    “Sometimes it’s difficult for the players of today because there are so many references to the past, a big history that former players made, and I can imagine those players saying it] because they love the club; it’s part of their lives,” Ten Hag said.

    “What they love is what they criticise the most, so I understand, but it sometimes affects the players; it’s clear, but I also think it’s part of our job; you have to live with criticism and see it as a gift to do better.”

    “They want to help you and as a player for Manchester United, you know you have to perform, win games and trophies. That can only be possible with togetherness, you can’t do it on your own, you need the team to perform.”

    Ten Hag added that the only way to handle United’s trophy-laden past was to be part of a successful future. United can claim their first piece of silverware under Ten Hag when they face Newcastle United in Sunday’s EFL Cup final.

    “That’s the point, you’re a player for Manchester United and you have to create your own legacy, therefore you have to win trophies and we have that opportunity on Sunday,” he said.

    “After Sunday, we are still in three competitions and good opportunities to win something.

  • Thuram moves to Barcelona amid Man Utd interest

    Thuram moves to Barcelona amid Man Utd interest

    Marcus Thuram will leave Borussia Moenchengladbach at the end of this season when his contract expires.

    As a result, the 25-year-old French forward is garnering plenty of interest from top European clubs.

    Thuram has scored 14 goals in all competitions this season for Gladbach, having been part of France’s 2022 World Cup squad.

    Marcus Thuram’s agent has offered the French forward to Barcelona as an off-season signing, according to Mundo Deportivo.

    Thuram has interest from Chelsea, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid, and Inter.

    Barcelona’s economic challenges mean they have prioritised signing players on free transfers in recent times with Thuram offering that plus flexibility in attack.

    ROUND-UP

    Fichajes claims Cristiano Ronaldo wants Sergio Ramos to join him at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, with the defender’s contract with PSG to expire at the end of this season. Ramos will leave it late to make a decision, holding out hope for a PSG extension.

    Liverpool will battle Bayern Munich in the off-season for the signature of Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, reports Calciomercatoweb.

    Barcelona, Real Madrid and Chelsea are all interested in Inter’s Marcelo Brozovic, with the Serie A club open to selling him, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

    Manchester United are weighing up a move for Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong, reports Football Insider. Fabrizio Romano claims numerous top clubs are interested in the Dutch defender.

    La Gazzetta dello Sport claims Liverpool are tracking Inter’s Nicolo Barella as they look to bolster their midfield options.

     West Ham, Fulham, Crystal Palace and Brentford are all circling for Milan forward Olivier Giroud,  who is open to a return to England, claims The Sun.

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  • Barca deserved better from Europa League – Xavi

    Barca deserved better from Europa League – Xavi

    After Antony’s goal knocked his team out of the Europa League at Old Trafford in the 73rd minute, Xavi thought Barcelona “deserved more” from their loss to Manchester United on Thursday.

    After a thrilling 2-2 draw in the first leg at Camp Nou, Robert Lewandowski scored from the spot after Bruno Fernandes brought down Alejandro Balde to give Barcelona the lead in the second leg.

    However, Fred equalised soon after the break, and Antony scored with less than 20 minutes remaining to send United through 4-3 on the overall score and eliminate Xavi’s team.

    Barca lost to the Red Devils for the first time since 2008 and in 38 matches overall in the competition.

    Xavi believes his players’ efforts at Old Trafford warranted more than they received, telling Movistar+ after the match: “In such evenly matched knockout matches, details are important. I think we deserved something more.

    “The goal of making it 1-1 hurt us. We lost a ball, and they equalised. They played with more intensity, and we lost more duels in the second half. 

    “It has been an even tie. There have even been moments in which we have been very comfortable.

    “This is a big disappointment, but we have to focus on the competitions we have left. We had a great rival in front of us.”

    Despite Barca having now been knocked out of both the Europa League and Champions League this season, Xavi says this season’s continental efforts have been an improvement on last campaign, when they were again knocked out of Europe’s premier competition before succumbing to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League final eight.

    “We have been better than last year,” Xavi explained. “The message is a bit like when they eliminated us in the Champions League. This year we have competed against Bayern [Munich], against Inter.

    “We have been better. We have competed in this tie.

    “You have to be very self-critical and think about what needs to be improved. We may not be satisfied, but there has been an exponential change compared to last year.

    “Next year we have to improve. They are big teams and it is hard to compete. Next year we will come back stronger.”

    Asked whether new signings are needed for Barca to compete at the top level again, Xavi replied: “Soon we’ll see if we can sign [players]. What is clear is that we haven’t competed for two years.”

  • Ten Hag praises Manchester United after Barca’s comeback

    Ten Hag praises Manchester United after Barca’s comeback

    After Manchester United’s thrilling Europa League comeback victory over Barcelona, Erik ten Hag praised his “resilient” team.

    The Red Devils trailed on aggregate after last week’s thrilling 2-2 draw at Camp Nou thanks to Robert Lewandowski’s opening-half penalty at Old Trafford.

    After the break, however, Ten Hag’s team completely reversed the situation, with goals from substitute Antony and Fred sending the hosts through to the round of 16.

    Additionally, it was the first time the Blaugrana had lost after leading at halftime since their defeat by Granada in April 2021.

    When asked if this was his biggest win since taking charge, the Dutchman told BT Sport: “Yes, I think so. We’ve had some good wins – Liverpool, Arsenal at home. Barcelona is the leader of LaLiga, eight points ahead of Real Madrid. To beat them, it’s a big win.

    “I think we have some great personalities on the team, like Rapha [Varane] and Licha [Lisandro Martinez], who don’t fear anyone. Even when you get setbacks, they move on, they carry on, and they are resilient. They want to get a result.

    “Even when you concede a penalty, you have to go on; you can turn around such games. When you win a big game like this after [being] 1-0 down in a difficult situation, I think this is a good bit of motivation for the season.”

    Following Antony’s winner, United have now had 19 goals scored by substitutes in all competitions this season, the most by any side from the big five European leagues.

    Alejandro Garnacho also looked dangerous following his introduction, his blocked effort leading to the decisive strike, and Ten Hag hailed the impact of both players.

    “We know if we can bring Antony and Garnacho on and get over in the right areas, you get speed, you get running behind, you get dribbles, and you get belief,” the manager added.

    “They are both so brave; they don’t fear anyone. They just take players on, and I think that gives a boost to the whole team.”

    On Fred, who levelled the tie, he said: “What he does really well is make the runs behind in the right moment, he has good timing. Getting behind the Barcelona midfielders was part of our game plan. I think it was really effective.”

  • Napoli defender Kim Min-jae allegedly gaining Man Utd’s attention

    Napoli defender Kim Min-jae allegedly gaining Man Utd’s attention

    Kim Min-jae of Napoli has gained prominence quickly, and Manchester United is reportedly looking into a possible transfer for the end of the season.

    Kim, 26, played until he was 24 years old in China and Korea before being noticed by Fenerbahce, who paid €3 million to acquire him.

    He spent one season in Turkey before being signed by Napoli for €18 million. He was a key component of their best season in the twenty-first century. He has participated in 22 of defending champions Napoli’s 23 Serie A games this season, starting every one of them.

    The strong-built defender has established himself as one of the league’s top players, but unfortunately for Napoli, his contract has a surprisingly reasonable release clause.

    According to Calciomercato, United have been targeting Kim for months and have been in contact with his agents to gauge his interest in a potential Premier League move.

    Kim reportedly has a £44m (€50m) release clause in his contract, but Napoli officials are desperate to award him a new contract to at least raise that figure to their valuation of £61m (€70m).

    United are expected to make him their primary target at the end of the season.

    ROUND-UP

    Football London is reporting Arsenal have made 24-year-old West Ham midfielder Declan Rice their top target after acknowledging they will not be in the running for Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham.

    According to the Evening Standard, Arsenal will have to battle Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, and Newcastle United to secure 18-year-old Real Valladolid full-back Ivan Fresneda in the next transfer window, with his £26.5 million (€30 million) release clause drawing plenty of interest.

    Chelsea will allow midfielder Mason Mount to leave before the beginning of next season if he does not agree to a new contract, per The Athletic.

    Sport Witness is reporting Everton had a £22 million (€25 million) offer for 25-year-old Udinese forward Beto rejected late in the January window, and it is believed they could return with an improved bid. 

    According to Football Insider, Tottenham are viewed as the favourites to land 26-year-old Leicester City midfielder James Maddison, who will be allowed to leave the club if he does not sign an extension.

  • Ten Hag says he was relentless in inspiring Man Utd turnaround against Barca

    Ten Hag says he was relentless in inspiring Man Utd turnaround against Barca

    Before their inspired comeback against Barcelona at Old Trafford, Erik ten Hag urged Manchester United to exude more confidence and bravery.

    In a thrilling comeback, the Red Devils defeated the undisputed LaLiga leaders 4-3 overall to advance to the round of 16 of the competition.

    United struggled in the first half, trailing 1-0 thanks to a Robert Lewandowski penalty and managing just two shots on goal. If Casemiro hadn’t stopped Sergi Roberto and Franck Kessie just before halftime, United might have been down 2-0 for the game.

    Ten Hag made a substitution at the break for a second successive match, having also done so against Leicester City on Sunday, introducing Antony in favour of Wout Weghorst.

    It proved an inspired move, as the hosts appeared invigorated upon the contest’s resumption. Fred levelled the tie before Antony struck out the winner 17 minutes from time.

    “I emphasised the belief. It was too flat [in the] first half,” Ten Hag told reporters his post-match press conference. “We had our spare man Casemiro [who] we didn’t use enough. Aaron Wan-Bissaka had a lot of space on the right side, we didn’t use [him] enough.

    “I think in the pressing, we could be more brave. So, that is what we emphasised. The second was to make the sub with Antony, who brought more speed in the play and who brings belief on the pitch.

    “In the squad, you need different types and profiles and when your time is there, you have to be ready and contribute with the team. You can’t win trophies with 11 [players], especially not nowadays. You need that squad and rotation.

    “This is another step because when you can beat Barcelona – one of the best teams in this moment in Europe – your belief can be really strong, because then I think you are able to beat anyone.

    “It was a magnificent night. I think it is brilliant when you can beat Barcelona – eight points ahead of Real Madrid in LaLiga – and we have seen this week Real Madrid playing [in their 5-2 win [over Liverpool]. We did a magnificent performance.”

  • Kylian Mbappe’s swoop maybe daunting for triumvirate – Football Insider

    Kylian Mbappe’s swoop maybe daunting for triumvirate – Football Insider

    Football Insider claims that Kylian Mbappe’s situation is being watched by Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea.

    The 24-year-old is allegedly dissatisfied at Paris Saint-Germain, and the Premier League trio is said to be aware that any potential deal will be difficult to execute.

    The difficulties the triumvirate faces in trying to sign the forward this summer are highlighted by the French superstar’s contract with PSG, which runs through 2025, and his reported salary of more than £1.2 million per week.