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      Sir Alex Ferguson took 27 years to ‘knock Liverpool off their f***ing perch’… Slot could undo that in his first season

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON famously claimed his biggest challenge as Manchester United manager was “knocking Liverpool off their f****** perch”.When the great Scot left Old ­Trafford after clinching one last  Premier League title in 2013, it was mission f****** accomplished.Legendary Man Utd manager Sir Alex Ferguson took pride in ‘knocking Liverpool off their perch’Credit: PAHowever, the Red Devils are now far from the threatening club they once wereCredit: GettyBut what Fergie achieved during the course of a glorious 27-year reign, new Kop manager Arne Slot is threatening to undo in his debut season.The crown United won 12 years ago was their 20th, putting them two clear of Liverpool at the top of the list of English champions.Jurgen Klopp brought the Merseysiders back to within one of United by clinching the crown in 2019-20.So if Slot can convert his team’s current lead at the top of the table into a trophy lift in May, he will put them level with their North-West rivals.Read More in FootballAnd given Liverpool’s superior European Cup and Champions League record — with six wins to United’s three — the Anfield faithful would once more have the numbers to back their claim to be England’s greatest club.The one crumb of comfort for United fans in recent years is the other lot down the M62 have failed to take advantage of United’s decline in the same way Fergie filled his boots during Liverpool’s barren years.Many Reds supporters would argue their team fell off that perch rather than being pushed by United.Poor recruitment and a failure to exploit the commercial opportunities of the Premier League breakaway cost the Kop dear as much as United’s quality under Fergie.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArne Slot has carried Liverpool to the top of the Prem table in his first seasonCredit: AlamyIn between Kenny Dalglish’s third and final league title as Liverpool boss in 1990 and Klopp’s victory 30 years later, Ferguson and United were champions 13 times.After Klopp announced his decision to leave Anfield last January — and his second bid for a Quadruple fell even flatter than the first — United supporters probably breathed a sigh of relief.Manchester United vs Newcastle: Player Ratings RevealedThey have seen just how hard it is to replace an iconic manager and to compete with those other noisy neighbours, Manchester City.But Slot has come in to Anfield — and, rather than picking up where Klopp left off, has coaxed new levels from a group of players who looked spent when finishing third in last season’s three-way title race.So the United faithful will travel to Anfield for Sunday’s game fearing not only another hiding on the day but also a more long-lasting kick in the guts at the end of the season.The Red Devils’ recent Premier League record against Liverpool is humiliating, with just one win in the last eight meetings and six goals scored compared to the Reds’ 26.Losing to your fiercest rivals is bad enough, but the manner of the defeats has often been shocking.In the 2021-22 season, Klopp’s Reds won 5-0 at Old Trafford and then 4-0 at home. But United’s real nadir came at Anfield on March 5, 2023 when Liverpool scored seven without reply.So the United faithful will travel to Anfield for Sunday’s game fearing not only another hiding on the day but also a more long-lasting kick in the guts at the end of the season.It was not only the biggest margin of victory in a rivalry dating back to 1894, it also equalled the worst defeat of United’s entire history.Yet most Liverpool supporters would swap a one-off thrashing like that for another championship.And despite their team’s apparent superiority right now, there will be a small voice of caution in the back of the mind of all but the most optimistic fans.Because failing to beat United damaged title bids led by Klopp more than once.United have suffered some embarrassing defeats against Liverpool in recent yearsCredit: AFPIn February 2019, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side held Liverpool to a 0-0 draw at Anfield. The Reds finished one agonising point behind City at the end of the season.And Erik ten Hag’s United drew both league games against Klopp’s side last season.Had Liverpool beaten United at Old Trafford on April 7, they would have been level on points with City and two ahead of Arsenal with six games to go.But after Mo Salah’s late penalty salvaged a 2-2 draw, Liverpool lost at home to Crystal Palace the following weekend and watched another title chance slip away.Losing to your fiercest rivals is bad enough, but the manner of the defeats has often been shocking.There is further encouragement for United fans that their team can still lift themselves when playing Liverpool and form can go out the window in this fiercely-contested derby.Bruno Fernandes grabbed the  winner in a 3-2 FA Cup fourth round victory in January 2021.And most memorably last March, United came from behind twice to beat Liverpool 4-3 in the sixth round and went on to lift the trophy.The hero of that Old Trafford ­victory was Amad Diallo, with a dramatic winner in  stoppage-time at the end of extra-time. Or, to put it another way, in Fergie time.READ MORE SUN STORIESHow the United fans would love another shock win for new boss Ruben Amorim’s side on Sunday.And recapture hope their club can remain alone on the title-winning perch where Ferguson left them.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More

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      Laura Woods: Trent Alexander-Arnold may well end up at Real Madrid… here’s why Liverpool CAN afford to lose him

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      LAURA WOODS believes Trent Alexander-Arnold may well end up at Real Madrid.But she reckons Liverpool have nothing to fear even if they do lose their homegrown star.Trent Alexander-Arnold continues to be linked with a move to Real MadridCredit: RexLaura Woods reckons Liverpool have a ready-made replacement should he leaveCredit: GettyAlexander-Arnold, 26, is into the final six months of his current Reds contract.And as of January 1, he is free to speak to European clubs and sign a pre-contract agreement to join in the summer.Real Madrid’s long pursuit of right-back Alexander-Arnold is far from secret and the lure of the Bernabeu is so often too strong to resist. Los Blancos were willing to stump up £20million to land the Liverpool local hero this month.READ MORE ON LIVERPOOLBut regardless of the date, should Alexander-Arnold complete the mega-move to Madrid, he would be set for a bumper £100million pay day by boosting his wages and a generous welcome bonus.However, TV broadcaster Woods does not think the loss of their creating, crossing sensation would be as painful as many Reds fans think.That is because of a ready-made replacement and fellow academy graduate. The TNT presenter said: “I think Trent Alexander-Arnold may well end up at Real Madrid and I wouldn’t blame him. He is young, so talented and has the world at his feet.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”If Real come knocking, there aren’t many that would turn it down, and for good reason.”Liverpool can afford to lose him with the emergence of Conor Bradley, but shouldn’t do it willingly. ‘New MOTD host’ Gabby Logan’s live TV interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot ends awkwardly “He is an academy boy, he is loved beyond measure and has been there for all of the highs of Liverpool’s recent successes in the Jurgen Klopp era.”So if they do let him go, it should be through gritted teeth.”Alexander-Arnold has forged a reputation as one of the best attacking full-backs thanks to his wonderful deliveries and superb range of passing.But his defensive frailties and vulnerabilities have been exposed over the years.However, despite playing 809 more minutes of football for Liverpool than Bradley in the 2024 calendar year, their stats are not very different.In fact, Bradley actually recorded more assists, completed dribbles and duels won – and nearly double the number of touches in the opposition’s box. The Northern Irishman, 21, set up Alexis Mac Allister’s opening goal in the famous 2-0 Champions League win over Real Madrid before being sidelined by a hamstring injury. And Woods reckons Bradley’s potential to fill Alexander-Arnold’s boots puts even greater pressure on negotiating deals for two other key stars out of contract in the summer.She added to BetMGM: “I do think Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are the priorities of the trio. “They are vital to Liverpool. They’re the DNA of the club, and losing one of those would rock this team more than losing Trent.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I just can’t believe the club has allowed three of their star players to run down their contracts like this.”As much as we’re promised it doesn’t affect their team-mates, the uncertainty will certainly have affected the fanbase and has become one of the main talking points in a season where we should be focusing on their achievements.”Arne Slot has another fine talent in the shape of Conor BradleyCredit: AFPMo Salah and Virgil van Dijk are also out of contract in the summerCredit: Alamy More

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      Why Liverpool are powerless to stop Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Real Madrid transfer if he wants to move

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      TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD to Real Madrid feels like a tale as old as time.The names and the methods of recruitment change but the siren song of the Bernabeu remains the same.Trent Alexander-Arnold is being heavily linked with a move away from AnfieldCredit: AlamyAnd it is as powerful as ever.From Laurie Cunningham — the first Englishman to play for the club in the professional era — to David Beckham, Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe, the lure of the famous white shirt has often proved irresistible to the biggest stars for almost 50 years.Some players have stayed out of the clutches of Real and their infamous president Florentino Perez.Steven Gerrard, Alexander-Arnold’s predecessor as Liverpool’s homegrown hero, revealed that Real wanted him to “start a war” to force his way out of Anfield in 2010.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGerrard didn’t.But others have found themselves at the mercy of forces beyond their control.Luis Figo did not really want to leave Barcelona in 2000 but the money and machinations of Perez made it happen.And when someone wants to join Real as much as they want to sign him — as the club’s media mouthpieces in Spain claim is the case with TAA — a deal feels all but inevitable.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhether Liverpool fans like it or not, Real Madrid Club de Futbol are one of the few sporting institutions to have a more glorious history and more glamorous present than the Anfield club.The 15 European Cups alone put Real out on their own as football’s most successful club.Roy Keane says ‘looked like he’d never played right-back’ in savage criticism of England star Trent Alexander-ArnoldAnd the financial clout which comes from being one of the most recognisable brands in the world enables them to meet the salary expectations of the best players in the world.Yet the attraction of Real goes beyond mere numbers.They have an aura, a magic that has rarely waned in the era when football has become a truly global game.At different times, Manchester United and Barcelona have been the go-to clubs for the creme de la creme.But with both enduring difficult times right now the Bernabeu is where players like Alexander-Arnold, 26, want to go.And as Mbappe proved, when you are a talent in demand, you can choose your own adventure. That was not the case when Cunningham left West Brom for Real in 1979.Even if the England winger had not wanted to leave, the offer of £950,000 was not one that the Baggies would have been prepared to turn down.Kylian Mbappe poses with Florentino PerezCredit: GettyLaurie Cunningham was the first Englishman to play for Real MadridCredit: PABack then the big Spanish and Italian clubs could pay transfer fees and, in particular, wages that were beyond the reach of most, if not all, English sides.The Bosman ruling of 1995 — which allowed players to leave clubs at the end of their contracts without a transfer fee being paid — altered the balance of power between clubs, players and agents.Steve McManaman was the first big Premier League star to take advantage of the freedom to sign a pre-contract agreement with a major foreign club when he agreed to join Real in 1999.McManaman signed the deal in January but declined to pose in a white shirt out of respect for Liverpool.But when necessary, Real — and Perez — have been prepared to force the issue.The club were Champions League holders when Perez went up against Lorenzo Sanz for the presidency in 2000.Launching an aggressive new recruitment policy — starting with the signing of Figo from bitter rivals Barcelona — was his campaign promise.So when Perez won a surprise victory, Figo found himself crossing Spanish football’s great divide for a world record fee of £52million rather than signing an improved deal at the Nou Camp.Luis Figo controversially quit Barcelona for the BernabeuCredit: EPASteve McManaman quit Anfield for Real MadridCredit: ReutersIt was the start of the Galactico era that gathered Zinedine Zidane, Beckham and other big names in a star-studded squad.Michael Owen and Jonathan Woodgate followed from the Premier League — they fell short of the sky-high expectations, as did the trophy haul and Perez left in 2006.But since his return in 2009, Real have got plenty of bang for their buck.Cristiano Ronaldo arrived that summer from Manchester United for £80m — another world-record fee at the time — and went on to become the greatest goalscorer in the club’s history by rattling in a sensational 451 goals in his 438 matches in all competitions.To keep Ronaldo sweet, the £86m Real paid Tottenham for Gareth Bale in 2013 was under-reported.But the overall message was clear… even as the Premier League’s financial power was growing and growing, Real could still get their man.Cristiano Ronaldo completed a seismic, world record £80m move from Man UtdCredit: AP:Associated PressGareth Bale left Tottenham for Madrid in 2013Credit: APLuka Modric and Eden Hazard are just two other examples of star players who left England for Real.The cash gap between LaLiga and the Premier League is why Perez continues to campaign for a European Super League.In the meantime, he and chief scout Juni Calafat are following a hybrid transfer policy.Real moved quickly to snap up young talent like Vinicius Jr, with a deal in place months before he turned 18 in 2018.Endrick was still only 16 when he signed an agreement to move to the Bernabeu last summer when he hit 18.Calafat also keeps an eye out for experienced, top-level players available for nothing — like Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba.And when big money needs to be spent on the hottest talent, Real spend it, as they did when laying down an initial £88.5m for Bellingham last year.Real forked out for Jude Bellingham 18 months agoCredit: GettyReal Madrid snapped up Vinicius Jr as a teenCredit: ReutersSignificantly, though, other clubs — including Liverpool — could have matched that fee and the young England star’s financial package. But Bellingham wanted Real.Last summer, one of the most tedious transfer sagas in football history ended when Mbappe finally joined Real.The France captain, 26, resisted Paris Saint-German’s attempts to offload him to Saudi Arabia and ran down his contract before moving to the Bernabeu with a signing-on fee of £128m to be paid over five years on top of his £13m annual salary.Again, a handful of other clubs might have been able to do a similar deal.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut Mbappe was determined to put on that famous white shirt.If Alexander-Arnold is of the same mind, then there is little or nothing Liverpool can do to stop it happening.Alexander-Arnold may have already made up his mindCredit: Alamy More

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      Ten Premier League free agents-to-be who can talk to Euro clubs NOW including Liverpool trio and Man Utd’s shining light

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      LIVERPOOL could end the season with a Quadruple under new boss Arne Slot.But many Reds fans fear a treble departure might still be on the cards – and now it starts getting serious.Liverpool trio Salah, Alexander-Arnold and Van Dijk are all out of contract this summerCredit: AFPSkipper Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mo Salah are all out of contract in the summer.That means, from today, they can legitimately discuss end-of-season “Bosman” free moves to overseas clubs.Prem rivals are not allowed to make formal contact although behind-the-scenes moves are hardly unprecedented.With 80-plus top-flight players now entering the final few months of their existing deals, it means the starting pistol for global interest in Prem stars was fired at midnight.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt is not just Liverpool fans who will be anxious.Kevin De Bruyne’s contract at Manchester City is up in six months, along with a host of first-team regulars across the Prem.Everton have no fewer than eight players whose deals are up at the end of June, Manchester United have six, while Fulham, Crystal Palace and Brighton risk seeing five players leave for nothing.SunSport looks at the ten stand-out names who can talk to foreign clubs from today…Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSTrent Alexander-ArnoldLiverpool right-back, 26, is being courted by Real Madrid but the Anfield club rejected the Spanish club’s move last night. His departure would be a body blow for Anfield fans.Ruben Amorim responds to Marcus Rashford’s Man Utd transfer bombshell about wanting ‘new challenge’ Yet Arne Slot does have a ready-made replacement at the club in the form of Northern Ireland’s Conor Bradley.Virgil van DijkAnfield skipper appears more likely than not to sign on for a few more years. But the Dutch defensive ace, 33, may want a three-season deal — which is against the owners Fenway Sports’ financial model.Centre-halves, though, have longer footballing lives than other outfield players.Mo SalahThe Egyptian King is on course for the greatest attacking season of the Premier League era with a staggering 17 goals and 13 assists so far.But Salah, 32, has been playing a public game of contract chicken with the Liverpool hierarchy and knows he is the Saudi Pro League’s No 1 target.Mo Salah has yet to sign a new contract with LiverpoolCredit: PAKevin De BruyneManchester City’s Belgian star, 33, went public on uncertainty over his Etihad future. He has been hit by injuries again and also lost his starting spot.If the curtain is being pulled down on his City era, he would leave as a club great. Will have big  Middle East offers.Amad DialloIn a season of toil and trial for Manchester United the Ivorian, 22, has been one of the precious few bright lights and a player who seems a more natural fit for Ruben Amorim’s preferred shape.But if United do not act fast, the door will be open to leave — either to seal a European move now or get his choice of clubs next summer.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charitySon Heung-minSpurs have the option to extend their South Korean captain’s stay in N17 for a further year but recent displays – especially his shocker against Wolves on Sunday – might suggest his future is unclear.Hearing former Tottenham striker Harry Kane indicate that he would welcome Sonny at Bayern Munich might make him ponder his best move.Mario LeminaLosing the Wolves captaincy after flipping his lid at the end of the defeat by West Ham that tipped Gary O’Neil one step closer to the exit door may be the incentive for the Gabonese midfielder to look elsewhere.And at 31, former Southampton and Fulham midfielder Lemina still has a few seasons left at the top level.Mario Lemina’s future may lay away from MolineuxCredit: PAThomas ParteyGhana’s midfield powerhouse has been in and out of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal side during this campaign but has also proven his versatility.Partey is not the only Gunners midfielder out of contract in the summer, with Italy star Jorginho in a similar position.But Partey, 31, did well when at Atletico Madrid and might well be a target in Spain.Christian NorgaardThomas Frank’s faith in his fellow Dane is unquestioned and the Brentford skipper has become a popular figure among Bees fans in six seasons since joining from Fiorentina.Still only 30, Norgaard will not be short of summer suitors but might fancy a return to the continent and can now look to fix up a deal.READ MORE SUN STORIESChristian Norgaard is a huge fan favourite at BrentfordCredit: GettyDominic Calvert-LewinMaybe the biggest surprise for the England striker, 27, is he is still at Everton after having been linked with a move away for at least the past 18 months.Running down his deal to join Newcastle for nothing in the summer remains his most likely move but he is also a potential target for Fiorentina, who are eyeing a Champions League return. More

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      Liverpool REJECT Real Madrid bid for Trent Alexander-Arnold in January swoop with star set for free transfer in summer

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      LIVERPOOL have rejected an audacious swoop from Real Madrid for Trent Alexander-Arnold.The England full-back is out of contract on Merseyside in the summer. Liverpool have rejected Real Madrid’s January approach for Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: GettyAlexander-Arnold came through the youth setup at Liverpool and has been with the club since 2006. He could leave on a free transfer in the summer unless he pens a new contract and can start talks with European clubs from January 1.The 26-year-old has yet to indicate if he wishes to leave his boyhood clue for a fresh challenge.But that hasn’t stopped Madrid from targeting the Three Lions star for a shock move in January. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe offer for Alexander-Arnold from Real was a “club-to-club approach rather than a formal offer,” according to the Daily Mail.It was “rejected” out of hand by Liverpool, who hold a “desire” to keep Trent on the books. Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti is keen to sign a new right-back to bolster his injury-hit squad.Dani Carvajal looks set to miss the remainder of the season for the reigning La Liga champions, who trail rivals Atletico by one point at the summit. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMadrid have aggressively pursued free transfers in recent seasons, offering lucrative contracts to tempt stars to the Bernabeu.David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger and most recently Kylian Mbappe were all signed this way. Fans hail ‘agent Jude Bellingham’ as England star is spotted with Real Madrid transfer target in nightclubEarlier this week, reports in Spain suggested Real were confident Alexander-Arnold will join at the end of the season.They wanted to secure a deal in January given their injuries, but they accept a summer transfer if it is the only option.Alexander-Arnold has played 332 times for Liverpool since making his debut almost a decade ago. He has won the Premier League, Champions League, the FA Cup, two League Cups and a Club World Cup with the club. Liverpool, who currently lead the Prem title race, could also lose both Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk to free transfers in the summer.Both players are out of contract in May and are yet to sign a fresh deal. More

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      Jamie Carragher reveals his 2025 predictions including title winner and how long it will take Amorim to fix Man Utd

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      JAMIE CARRAGHER believes only an injury crisis can stop Liverpool from winning the Premier League title. The Sky pundit has backed his former team to pip Arsenal to top spot in May. Jamie Carragher has given his predictions for 2025 across the world of footballCredit: AlamyArne Slot’s Liverpool are setting the pace in the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyCarragher spent his entire 17-year career with Liverpool, appearing over 500 times for the club. The 46-year-old never lifted the Premier League trophy during his time at Anfield.But he believes Arne Slot’s juggernaut are all but unstoppable this season, fresh from another thumping win on the road against West Ham. Writing in The Telegraph, Carragher claims “Chelsea are not quite ready to become champions.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe goes on to predict that “Liverpool will pip Arsenal into second place.”Carragher adds: “My only worry for Liverpool is if they pick up injuries to their big players. “If they can avoid them, they will be difficult to catch.”The former England defender also believes Manchester City will put their recent dismal form behind them and finish fourth.Most read in FootballPep Guardiola’s men won just their second game in 14 matches against Leicester on Sunday. FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOn the other side of Manchester, Carragher is not convinced Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd revolution is yet to get out of the planning stage.The Portuguese coach has seen his team win just four times in 10 games, along with five defeats. Gary Neville throws DRINK over Carragher after Liverpool blow Newcastle lead as fans say ‘he was gonna go for him there’Carragher said: “Ruben Amorim has a bigger job with a blank canvas.”He will need more time and patience, especially in getting underperforming players on big contracts out of the club. “What is happening at United right now is to be expected – a few good results mixed with reminders as to why they needed a new coach.”Despite United’s woes on and off the field, Carragher is convinced Amorim is the right man for the job.Carragher believes Ruben Amorim will come good at UnitedCredit: PAMan Utd ratings vs WolvesBy Ken LawrenceWOLVES landed a shock Boxing Day knockout as Manchester United’s struggles continued.The 2-0 defeat means Ruben Amorim has won just two of the seven Premier League games he has taken charge of.United find themselves 14th in the table and today were not helped by Bruno Fernandes’ red card and Andre Onana letting one in direct from a corner.Here is how SunSport rated the performances…ANDRE ONANA: 4He needed to make an agile save from Jorgen Strand Larsen in the first half, but badly misjudged the flight of Cunha’s corner for the opening goal – his claim that he was obstructed by Matt Doherty was rejected.LENY YORO: 5Recalled but booked after only four minutes for a foul on Cunha, so he was walking on eggshells and was tested by Wolves throughout. Subbed just after the hour mark.HARRY MAGUIRE: 6The England defender did his best to keep United in the game when they were under pressure for long periods – at least he helped to stem the tide until the dying seconds and had a header on target in stoppage time.LISANDRO MARTINEZ: 6Teamed up well with Maguire to stop Wolves from winning this more easily, he stood his ground and produced some important challenges in the latter stages before Wolves caught him on the break with the last action of the game.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI: 5Tenacious and determined, but was one of several players given a torrid time by the best player on the pitch – Cunha.MANUEL UGARTE: 5Dispossesed too easily at times, struggled against a lively Wolves attack and was eventually taken off as one of Amorim’s subs following Fernandes’ red card.KOBBIE MAINOO: 5Looked a threat early on, created some good openings, but he was booked after the break as United looked short on ideas. Faded and was subbed.DIOGO DALOT: 6Brought a tremendous save from Jose Sa in the first half in what was a rare bright spot for United – but he had no major influence on a poor team display.AMAD DIALLO: 5Lacked awareness of his team-mates sometimes and looked a shadow of the player who turned the Manchester derby around less than two weeks ago.BRUNO FERNANDES: 3Sent off early in the second half for a second yellow after a challenge on Nelson Semedo, but the captain had cut a frustrated figure before that.RASMUS HOJLUND: 5Became visibly annoyed at times at a lack of service from his team-mates, he had no joy up front and was subbed with 10 minutes left.SUBSCasemiro (for Mainoo, 63 mins): 6Christian Eriksen (for Ugate, 63 mins): 6Antony (for Yoro, 63 mins): 6Alejandro Garnacho (for Amad, 79 mins): 5Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 79 mins): 5He reckons the Red Devils will be a “better, more consistent team by December 2025, especially when Amorim has a full pre-season and new players to implement his ideas.”Carragher was also asked to name his Champions League winner – but hedged his bets.The 2005 winner believes either Inter Milan, Bayern Munich, Liverpool or Real Madrid will lift Big Ears come May. He added: “No one wants to draw Real in the knockout phase because it does not matter how poorly they are playing, they always find a way to get through.”Bayern also look good and are always in contention by the latter stages. READ MORE SUN STORIES”And then, of course, there is Liverpool, who have a 100 per cent win record so far. “They are the four sides everyone else will want to avoid.” More

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      Fresh details of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s proposed Real Madrid transfer from Liverpool emerge including ‘secret pact’

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      REAL MADRID are closing in on the signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold, according to reports in Spain.The Liverpool defender has been heavily linked with a move away from Anfield with his contract up in the summer.Real Madrid are close to sealing Trent Alexander-Arnold’s signingCredit: EPAReal Madrid has been his rumoured destination for some time, and it is claimed Alexander-Arnold may have already agreed a transfer.Spanish outlet AS claim the move is almost complete with Real confident he will join at the end of the season.They wanted to secure a deal in January given their injuries, but they accept a summer transfer is the only option.The report adds Alexander-Arnold wants to leave Liverpool on a good note – not midway through a season when they lead the Premier League.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt has also been suggested Real Madrid have a secret pact to keep the transfer quiet once it has been completed next month, to avoid upsetting Liverpool.Reports from Spain have consistently linked Alexander-Arnold to the Bernabeu over the last few weeks, possibly under influence from Real Madrid.The LaLiga giants used the media to put pressure on moves for Aurelien Tchouameni, Kylian Mbappe and Antonio Rudiger, with the latter pair also joining on free transfers.Howver, reports from Merseyside offer a conflicting view, claiming no such transfer agreement has been reached.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThey claim that Alexander-Arnold has not given his word to Real, meaning his future remains up in the air.Respected transfer guru Fabrizio Romano makes the same claim, suggesting Liverpool could keep ahold of their star man as “nothing has been agreed”.Mo Salah provides huge update on Liverpool contract situation as he breaks Premier League record in Tottenham thrashing More

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      Liverpool scouting Championship wonderkid Ryan One, 18, after breaking into promotion-chasing Sheffield United first XI

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      LIVERPOOL continue to compile a dossier on Sheffield United’s teenage striker Ryan One.Kop spies like the look of the powerful Scot, 18, who has already made it into Blades’ promotion-chasing squad.Ryan One is being monitored by Liverpool after impressing for Sheffield UnitedCredit: AlamyThe teenager netted his first goal for the Blades against Bristol City in NovemberCredit: PAOne is the type of physical frontman Liverpool lack in their ranks of emerging talent – and they are poised to move for him.Blades see One as a player for the future so would look for a big fee if Anfield chiefs do come calling.The teenager spent his early career north of the border at Hamilton, before joining United in 2023.He made his debut for the club away at Arsenal last season, before the Blades dropped back to the Championship. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe powerful striker has since featured 10 times for Chris Wilder’s side, catching the eye of scouts from Merseyside.One netted his first goal for the club in a 2-1 win over Bristol City at the start of November.The son of former Scottish lower-league striker Armand One, Ryan has already impressed on the international stage.He was included in Archie Gemmill’s Scotland under-21 squad back in October, getting minutes against Belgium and Kazakhstan. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOne said: “I didn’t expect it at all because I’d been selected for the Under-19s but it was a great feeling.“The standard in training has been really good.’New MOTD host’ Gabby Logan’s live TV interview with Liverpool boss Arne Slot ends awkwardly “But that’s what you’d expect with so many of these players playing first-team football. “I’ve just tried to keep up with it but I think I’ve done well.”Liverpool ratings vs ChelseaBy Ken LawrenceLIVERPOOL picked up a big 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Anfield to remain top of the Premier League.The Reds registered their first victory against a team currently occupying the top half of the Prem table.That was a major statement for the Merseysiders’ manager Arne Slot, whose team now stands a point ahead of Manchester City and four away from third-placed Arsenal at the top.Mohamed Salah opened the scoring a minute before the half-hourmark from the penalty spot.But Chelsea hit back just three minutes into the second half with Nicolas Jackson.However, Liverpool picked up the three points thanks to Curtis Jones’ winner just three minutes later.But how did each Liverpool star far? Check out Ken Lawrence’s player ratings below for more:CAOIMHIN KELLEHER – 5For the Kop – and no doubt secretly for boss Arne Slot – still surely lacking a top keeper’s presence.TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD – 5Didn’t look entirely comfortable throughout especially in the face of Malo Gusto’s first-half raids.IBRAHIMA KONATE – 5Caught napping by Nicolas Jackson’s run three minutes into the second half for Chelsea’s equaliser.VIRGIL VAN DIJK – 7He has his assassins back home in the Netherlands but again showed imperious defensive abilities.ANDY ROBERTSON – 6The Scotland captain is often praised more for his attacking qualities than his defensive ones, but goodness me – what a brilliant last-second block.RYAN GRAVENBERCH – 7Only played 12 games in Jurgen Klopp’s final season but showed again why he’s now an automatic choice for Slot.CURTIS JONES – 9Outstanding all over the pitch, won one pen when it should have been two, plus grabbed a poacher’s winner.DOMINIK SZOBOSZLAI– 5Again suggested he flatters to deceive, too often playing at a slower tempo than those around him.MOHAMED SALAH – 7What’s left to say about Anfield’s Egyptian king and his ultimate cool shot from the spot?DIOGO JOTA – 4Forced off after playing in pain after Tosin Adarabioyo hauled him to the deck early on.CODY GAKPO – 5Flitted in and out of the action, the Dutch wide man didn’t look that shocked to be replaced.SUBSDARWIN NUNEZ (for Jota 30) – 5Still a work in progress, says Slot – but working much harder off the ball.LUIS DIAZ (for Gakpo 65) – 5Ever-willing to shows that feisty left-sided pace of his.ALEXIS MAC ALLISTER ( for Curtis Jones 81) 5Ill in midweek but as the Argentine always does, got stuck in.JOE GOMEZ (for Trent Alexander-Arnold 81) – 5A few welcome minutes for the defender now down the pecking order.Meanwhile, Derby have joined the growing list of clubs keen to take forward Jayden Danns on loan if Liverpool clear the move.The promising striker, 18, has been prolific at youth level for the club and has previously been linked with a move to Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth. More