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    Man Utd stars frustrated with Ruben Amorim after under-pressure boss blamed team for massive wave of staff redundancies

    MANCHESTER UNITED stars are frustrated with manager Ruben Amorim after he blamed their poor performance for hundreds of club employees being made redundant.The new boss has been candid in his view that United’s failure to qualify for the Champions League and poor Premier League form is partly responsible for club staff losing their jobs.Man Utd flops are frustrated by Ruben Amorim blaming the team for staff redundanciesCredit: GettyCaptain Bruno Fernandes has acted as conduit between players and the bossCredit: ReutersSir Jim Ratcliffe has overseen a stunning array of cuts at Old TraffordCredit: GettyBut his claims have angered some of his stars, who believe he knew the full extent of the club’s financial position before he joined mid-season.The statements have led to a distance between Amorim and his first-team squad, who are also adapting to the Portuguese boss’ demanding methods.A source said: “If you went into Carrington you would think the players and Amorim are getting on great.“But the truth is the players are frustrated for being blamed for the financial problems of the club.READ MORE SPORT STORIES“However they haven’t challenged the manager as they haven’t yet formed a bond with him.“He is clear in what he wants from them on the pitch, and they are trying to implement it.“But while some of them are fully behind his tactics, they feel that they cannot speak up as Amorim is steadfast in what he wants.“They are doing what they are told, whether they think its right or not…the players feel like they can’t show any displeasure or it will become a problem”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe source added that Amad Diallo and Amorim had bonded while club captain Bruno Fernandes was an important conduit between the manager and the rest of the squad.In a post-match interview after United’s stuttering 3-2 win over Ipswich on Wednesday, Fernandes acknowledged Amorim’s philosophy was not yet yielding the results they wanted.New footage emerges of Alejandro Garnacho that ‘explains why Man Utd star marched down tunnel’ after being hauled off He told TNT Sports: “Me and H [Harry Maguire] have been here for a while already, so we know that we have to stick to what we’ve been trying to do in training [and] what we’re supposed to do.“It could be that you could feel in moments that it’s not working, but for some reason, the manager wants us to do that – and if he wants us to do that… [the coaches] watch so many games, they prepare themselves [for our matches].“We have so many staff – not only the ones who came with him but the ones who were already here.”We have great people behind the team to work on that, so if they do that in the right way, we just have to come on the pitch and show it.”As I said, we need to have more confidence [and] be more brave to show our character and our qualities.”Man Utd have endured a nightmare season on and off the pitchCredit: GettyThere was more controversy during the victory over Ipswich as Alejandro Garnacho marched straight down the tunnel after being subbed off.The Argentine winger, 20, was hooked by Amorim after Patrick Dorgu was sent off late in the first half.The boss opted to instantly replace Garnacho with Noussair Mazraoui to solidify the defensive side of the team.The decision was booed by the home crowd at Old Trafford and called “garbage” on social media.Garnacho also appeared to be unhappy with being the sacrificial lamb as he stormed down the tunnel.Man Utd ratings vs Ipswich as Maguire saves the day after Onana makes case to be WORST ever signingMANCHESTER UNITED eased their fears of the drop in a topsy-turvy relegation six-pointer with Ipswich.The Red Devils triumphed 3-2 despite playing the second half with ten men.A major cock-up from Patrick Dorgu and Andre Onana saw Ipswich take a third-minute lead through Jaden Philogene.Then, after United had recovered to lead 2-1, Dorgu saw a straight red card for a poor challenge on Omari Hutchinson.Philogene scored again to level it before the break only for Harry Maguire to nod in to be United’s saviour.But who was United’s best player on the night?Here, SunSport’s Phil Thomas reveals his Manchester United player ratings…However, some fans reckon the forward was simply off to change his soaking wet shirt.Speaking after the match, Amorim was quizzed about the player’s attitude and brought up loaned-out forward Marcus Rashford in his response.He said: “You are making a connection with Rashford, right? I know, I know.”What I’m saying is I’m going to talk obviously with Garnacho about that [going down the tunnel].”So I will talk about that if you want in the next press conference.”READ MORE SUN STORIESGarnacho has since taken to Instagram with a more positive post, having shared a cryptic snap of himself looking frustrated straight after the match.He shared a snap of the team celebrating Maguire’s goal with the caption: “Important three points! Team.” More

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    ‘I am heartbroken’ – Man Utd’s pre-eminent writer reveals he’s victim of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s cuts in emotional post

    MANCHESTER UNITED’S most esteemed writer has been let go by the club amid Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s second round of brutal cuts.Ratcliffe, 72, completed a minority takeover in 2023 and has since gained control over sporting operations at United, which in turn led to some severe downsizing.Manchester United’s ‘pre-eminent writer’ has been let go amid Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s second round of cutsCredit: AlamyLast summer saw 250 staff members made redundant in a heavy first wave to save costs under Sir Jim.But the list of casualties is set to increase by between 150 and 200 job cuts amid the club’s transformation plan, which includes axing free lunches.That also led to the dismissal of some of the Red Devils’ most esteemed figures, such as legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson whose ambassador role was ended.And now best-selling author Wayne Barton has become “one of the statistics” of Ratcliffe’s latest cuts.Read More on Man UtdBarton worked as an editorial consultant for the club since January 2023 and has been very close with the club for many years.His incredible work, which has seen him publishing 20 books, led to immense praise from key figures, such as Tony Whelan and Martin Edwards who dubbed him the club’s “pre-eminent writer”.The writer was left “heartbroken ” as he announced the news on social media where he sang the praises of other members of staff who were made redundant and expressed his desire to return one day.Barton tweeted: “So just over two years in my dream job came to an end today as I became one of the statistics you’ve been reading about in the press associated with United.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”For those two years I loved every day of being able to work at Old Trafford, I loved the immense privilege despite it being such a difficult time in our history, hoping that I could help from within to contribute something positive.”I’m beyond proud of my work outside of United, the kind reviews of my books and perception of me as a writer. Ruben Amorim makes blunt admission as Man Utd face cash crisis “Obviously, I am heartbroken that my contribution is no longer of value to the club I love.”I understand that difficult decisions have to be made. I have seen very talented people leave their roles, and I have seen legendary figures who are drenched in the history of our club been told they too are now part of the past; a past which is, for me, the richest history in football, a past which these people remain a significant part of the tapestry and educational process for the future. “They are indispensable; the cost of losing them far greater than financial.’I am heartbroken’He continued: “It’s the biggest club in the country, possibly the world, and every loss I’ve seen and experienced has been significant to the operations. Every loss has been felt.”These are real people, real lives, being affected – not because of the quality of their performance or contribution. They work incredibly hard and feel, like I have done, a sense of gratitude and privilege and a dream coming true. “There are people having to deliver terrible news which wasn’t their decision to make. A football club is not a normal business. It is a community asset, serving different needs. It is it’s history.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Anyway. So today I leave the club I love, hoping that one day, they will need me again, and that I’ll be back, my tiny little cog in the big machine, my sense of grandoise not lost on me with the self-importance of this post.”I’m by no means an important loss, but it’s an important loss to me.” More

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    Premier League chief Richard Masters offers huge update on Man City’s 130 financial rule breach charges

    PREMIER LEAGUE chief executive Richard Masters has issued an update on Manchester City’s 130 Financial Fair Play charges.City were hit with 115 charges over alleged breaches of FFP rules last February.Richard Masters has issued an update on Man City’s chargesCredit: GettyThat number rose to 130 later in the year following an administration issue.The reigning Prem champions vehemently denied the charges in a hearing which took place between September and December and a verdict is now imminent.Pep Guardiola revealed earlier this month that he expects to learn of the club’s fate in March.And the Spaniard has insisted that he will speak out on the situation when the process is over.Read More in FootballBut Prem chief Masters has given a brief update on the process on Thursday – suggesting the panel needs to be “given time”. Asked about the case at the Business of Football Summit, he said: “The disciplinary panel needs to be given time to come to their decision”.Football finance expert Kieran Maguire believes a relegation-inducing points deduction will be the most likely outcome should City lose the case.He told BBC Radio 5 Live: “A points deduction would be the most likely outcome should the club be found guilty.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”As for the quantum of points deduction, if Everton were initially given a 10 points deduction for going around about £10/12million over the limits in one particular season, I think, in order to set an example to the rest of football, it’s got to act as a deterrent.””We’ll probably be looking at somewhere in the region of 60 to 100 points, which would effectively guarantee relegation out of the Premier League and into the lower tiers of football in the EFL.”Micah Richards reveals he supports two Premier League teams but it ‘depends if I’m off air or on air’ Man City recently won a legal battle with the Premier League over “unlawful” financial rules.The bombshell verdict could now trigger a series of compensation claims from clubs and plunge the competition into crisis. More

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    I experienced the poshest, most exclusive stand in Premier League and it was like no other – just ignore the football

    IT’S the poshest, most exclusive and expensive stand in the Premier League.Bring your Speedos for a half-time dip in an open-air swimming pool, indulge your taste buds with a spot of lobster in a high-class restaurant, enjoy a drink on a roof-top bar overlooking the Thames.Dave Kidd visited Fulham’s new exclusive standThe Sun’s Chief Sports Writer paid £105 for his ticket with his son’s priced at £85 More

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    Lewis Hamilton on racing until 50, slamming ‘older white’ critics and getting ‘lit up’ by Mercedes staff at paintball

    AT the age of 40, most F1 drivers are in the slow lane to retirement.But not Lewis Hamilton, who is ready to make his childhood “dream” come true by getting behind the wheel of a Ferrari F1 car.Lewis Hamilton makes his dream come true by driving for FerrariCredit: RexAt 40, Hamilton still lives life in the fast laneCredit: Instagram / lululemonThe seven-time world champ spoke to Time Magazine about his move to the ScuderiaThe seven-time world champion fell in love with the red of the Scuderia by driving Michael Schumacher’s car in video games.Ferris Bueller’s 1961 250 GT California Spyder has always been Hamilton’s dream vehicle.But despite this, it was far from a straightforward decision when he was offered the chance to ditch Mercedes for Ferrari.Hamilton spent a few days meditating before deciding it was “the right thing for me”.READ MORE IN F1In an interview with Time Magazine, Hamilton reveals he has “never been so excited” despite nerves ahead of the first Grand Prix of the season in Australia on March 16. It would be easy for Hamilton to put his feet up and end as one of the best drivers to ever grace the sport.But Hamilton is firing back at claims he should retire and at those who have slammed his switch to Ferrari.He said: “You can’t stand still for too long. I needed to throw myself into something uncomfortable again.Most read in MotorsportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”What I can tell you is, retirement is nowhere on my radar. I could be here until I’m 50, who knows.“The old man is a state of mind. Of course your body ages. But I’m never going to be an old man.”Lewis Hamilton visits Ferrari HQ as he arrives at Maranello for his first official day with the Scuderia There has been fierce criticism from F1 legend Eddie Jordan, who branded the Italian team’s decision to axe Carlos Sainz from their line-up as “absolutely suicidal”.Ex-Ferrari driver Jacky Ickx claims Hamilton’s move is a marketing ploy to bring the glamour back to the brand.Even Mercedes principal Toto Wolff said he believes “everyone has a shelf life”.But Hamilton said: “I’ve always welcomed the negativity. I never, ever reply to any of the older, ultimately, white men who have commented on my career and what they think I should be doing.”How you show up, how you present yourself, how you perform slowly dispels that.”Hamilton remains on good terms with the people at MercedesCredit: GettyNothing is distracting him from his dream of an eighth world titleCredit: PAWinning his eighth title is firmly in sights and nothing is distracting him during his new life in Maranello, adding: “Don’t ever compare me to anybody else.“I’m the first and only black driver that’s ever been in this sport. I’m built different. I’ve been through a lot. I’ve had my own journey. “You can’t compare me to another 40-year-old, past or present, Formula One driver in history. Because they are nothing like me. “I’m hungry, driven, don’t have a wife and kids. I’m focused on one thing, and that’s winning. That’s my No1 priority.”Despite Wolff’s comments among others, Hamilton remains on good terms with the people at Mercedes.Even if they got their own back during their annual team-bonding paintball session when one of Hamilton’s own team-mates hilariously fired at him.He admitted: “They lit me up, hard. It was so painful.”After dusting himself down, the Stevenage-born star was all smiles with Wolff and George Russell at the recent F1 75 launch event at London’s O2 Arena.All teams unveiled their liveries ahead of the 2025 season, with Hamilton taking to the stage in red. “I’m in red, I’m like, whoa. The suit looked so good on me. I’m like, Damn. It’s a really, really special moment,” says Hamilton.Despite his pure focus on the track, his calendar is full as he manages a production company, a clothing line and he always keeps at the height of fashion.Acting could also be on the horizon for Hamilton amid his co-producer rule for the new Brad Pitt film F1.The movie hits the big screens in June and Hamilton is playing a huge role in making the film as realistic as possible.Hamilton has rubbed shoulders with Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise in recent years – even taking Pitt for a spin to give him a taste of being a racing driver.Top Gun and F1 director Joseph Kosinski revealed: “He gave Brad the scare of a lifetime in a lap.”Brad was clawing at the windows, begging to get out.”On Hamilton’s role in the new movie, Kosinski added: “He opened all those doors for us into that world.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We would not have been able to do this without him.”Hamilton is ready for hit to break box office records, saying: “It’s going to blow away anything that’s ever been done in Formula One before.”Hamilton is playing a key role in the new film F1Credit: Getty More

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    ‘As an American I’m ashamed’ – Donald Trump slammed by former Premier League manager over ‘ridiculous’ comments

    FORMER Leeds boss and current Canada manager Jesse Marsch has blasted US President Donald Trump in an astonishing rant. American-born Marsch is “ashamed” of Trump’s repeated comments about making Canada a 51st state.Jesse Marsch has blasted US President Donald TrumpPresident Trump has repeatedly joked about Canada becoming a 51st stateTensions have been rising between the neighbouring countries following Trump’s 51st state remarks, including proposed trade tariffs between the bordering nations.Marsch took charge of Canada in May 2024 and could face the US in the final of the CONCACAF Nations League next month.But the Wisconsin-born gaffer has hit back at Trump “insulting rhetoric” at the Concacaf Nations League media day in Los Angeles on Wednesday.Marsch, 51, said: “If I have one message to our president, it’s lay off the ridiculous rhetoric about Canada being the 51st state.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”As an American, I’m ashamed of the arrogance and disregard we’ve shown one of our historically oldest, strongest and most loyal allies.”These international tournaments, for Canada, mean something different now.”Canada is a strong, independent nation that is deep-rooted in decency and it’s a place that values high ethics and respect.”Unlike the polarised, disrespectful and often now hateful climate that is in the US.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSCanada and the US recently met across two fixtures in the 4 Nations ice hockey competition, with the former winning the final 3-2.The politically-charged nature of the tournament was hard to avoid.Lionel Messi fined after grabbing the neck of a New York City assistant coachTheir first game descended into chaos with three fights breaking out between players in the first nine seconds, while the US national anthem was loudly booed.American supporters also jeered the Canadian anthem, which was sung with different lyrics in protest about Trump’s statements.After Canada won in overtime, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on X: “You can’t take our country – and you can’t take our game.”Marsch added: “When I look forward to a month from now I know this will fuel our team, the mentality and will that we have to play for our country.”The desire to go after this tournament in every way and to show on and off the pitch exactly what Canadian character is.”The politically-charged nature of the 4 Nations hockey tournament was hard to avoidMarsch has won six of his 13 games in charge of Canada, who are seeking their first piece of silverware since 2000 in the Nations League.Canada meet Mexico in the semi-finals on 21 March and the winner will face either the US or Panama in the CONCACAF final two days later.Marsch – who previously coached the US team in 2011, before a successful career in the MLS – has quickly taken to Canadian culture.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe sings the national anthem and has plans to eventually move to Canada ahead of the 2026 World Cup.The US, Canada and Mexico will share hosting duties in two years time. More

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    Lewis Hamilton, 40, addresses relationship status in rare statement as he discusses F1 future

    LEWIS HAMILTON insists he is still fully focused on Formula One – despite experiencing a difficult few years.The seven-time world champion, who turned 40 last month, is embarking on a brand new era with Ferrari.Lewis Hamilton insists he is still hungry to win in F1Credit: GettyHaving spent 11 years with Mercedes, he left in December to join the Italian team on a multi-year deal.Before he completed the switch, Mercedes chief Toto Wolff appeared to take aim at the Brit, suggesting: “Everyone has a shelf life.”Although Wolff later claimed the quote had been taken out of context, Hamilton was keen to respond in a recent interview with TIME Magazine.The Brit insisted that his journey has made him unique in his own right.READ MORE IN F1He said: “Don’t ever compare me to anybody else. I’m the first and only Black driver that’s ever been in this sport.”I’m built different. I’ve been through a lot. I’ve had my own journey.”Hamilton also briefly touched on his life away from the track, adding: “You can’t compare me to another 40-year-old, past or present, Formula One driver in history. Because they are nothing like me.”I’m hungry, driven, don’t have a wife and kids. I’m focused on one thing, and that’s winning. That’s my No.1 priority.”Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHamilton’s most public relationship was with Nicole SherzingerCredit: GettyThe F1 icon likes to keep his personal life private for the most part.His most public relationship was with Pussycat Dolls star Nicole Sherzinger.Inside Lewis Hamilton’s first day at Ferrari as he instantly surprises new bosses at first official day of F1 testing After having an on/off romance that spanned seven years, they eventually called it quits in 2016.Hamilton has also been in rumoured relationships with other celebrities in the past, including Rita Ora, Barbara Palvin, Winnie Harlow and Danielle Lloyd.In 2023 he was romantically linked with Colombian singer Shakira, but their relationship never went past the friend zone.And last month he was spotted on a dinner date with actress Sofia Vergara.He was also rumoured to be in a relationship with Rita OraCredit: Getty More