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    Edinson Cavani UNHAPPY at Man Utd and wants to quit to move closer to family while fuming at FA racism charge, says dad

    EDINSON CAVANI is unhappy at Manchester United and will return to South America this summer, according to the player’s father.
    Luis Cavani has opened up to Argentine outlet TyC Sports, revealing his son will almost certainly quit Old Trafford in the coming window.

    Edinson Cavani will QUIT Man Utd to move back to South America this summer, according to the player’s dadCredit: Instagram @cavaniofficial21

    Uruguayan striker Cavani, pictured here with his mum, is believed to favour a move to Argentine giants Boca JuniorsCredit: Instagram

    Cavani Snr says the striker wants to move to move back to South America to be closer to his family.
    Luis even claimed Edinson, 34, has been in contact with Boca Juniors over a summer move.
    Cavani’s dad added the striker’s FA race-row sanction left him ‘very upset’, leading to him wanting to end his stay in England after just one season.
    He also revealed Cavani wants to ‘fight for something important’ in a clear dig at Man Utd.

    Luis told TyC Sports: “My son does not feel comfortable in England and wants to be close to the family again.
    “Edinson is going to end up playing in South America.
    “I want Edinson to play in a team that fights for something important.
    “Edinson had many conversations with [Boca vice-president Juan Roman] Riquelme and he would like to play for Boca.

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    Cavani was left ‘very upset’ by his treatment amid a race row earlier this seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Cavani wants to join Boca to be closer to his family, according to his dad, LuisCredit: Instagram @cavaniofficial21

    “He was always seduced by the idea of playing in Boca.
    “If he returns to South America he is leaning towards Boca.”
    Luis even went as fair as confirming Cavani would quit United this summer.
    He continued: “By the middle of the year he will return to South America.
    “My son’s idea is not to continue there, he wants to return.”

    Earlier this week, SunSport revealed Cavani is demanding answers from United regarding his future having only joined on a free from Paris Saint-Germain last summer.
    But his dad’s latest comments suggest the Uruguay legend will almost certainly be quitting.
    Cavani has scored six goals, adding two assists, in 18 Premier League games this season after carving out a role as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s No1 central striker.
    But United may be forced to dive into the transfer market to replace him this summer.
    Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood have all been mostly utilised in wider roles by Solskjaer this season.
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    Edinson Cavani ‘to quit Man Utd after deciding to join Boca Juniors on free transfer this summer’ say shock reports

    MANCHESTER UNITED striker Edinson Cavani reportedly has his heart set on a dream move to Boca Juniors in the summer.
    The 34-year-old is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, though the Red Devils have the option of triggering a one-year extension.

    Edinson Cavani is reportedly keen to leave Manchester United for Boca Juniors in the summerCredit: AFP

    But it is understood that both parties have the option of pulling the plug at the end of the campaign.
    And according to Argentine news outlet Ole, the Uruguay international has decided to depart Old Trafford in order to return to South America.
    They state that the ex-Paris Saint-Germain star has dreamed of playing for Boca since a young child.
    It has also been claimed that Cavani’s representatives do not believe his possible contract extension will be an issue as he can turn it down.

    The report also adds that Cavani would be happy to take a huge pay cut on his £210,000-a-week salary in order to join his boyhood club.
    And the former Napoli ace will demand a three-year deal in Argentina as he looks to fire the side to a first Copa Libertadores title since 2007.
    Quoted by Ole, a member of Cavani’s entourage said: “Unless there’s a mistake, that’s it.
    “He’s decided to return now. And he has decided that it’s Boca.”

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    Should he make the move to Boca to link up with Marcos Rojo, he could replace Carlos Tevez, who is in the final year of his contract.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer spoke of Cavani’s contract situation last month where he insisted the club are happy with him.
    He declared: “I can only say Edinson has done well. I’ve been impressed by him, he’s really gelled in the group.
    “We’ll sit down and speak with him in the near future to see his plans and our plans. It’s a good discussion to have. We always speak to the players.
    “And, with his contract situation at the moment, we’re very pleased with what he’s done.”
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

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    Man Utd verdict: Dean Henderson proves he can be the daddy in David de Gea’s absence

    WITH David de Gea back in his homeland on paternity leave Dean Henderson took the chance to prove he can be the daddy at Old Trafford.
    The Spaniard has been told not to rush back after welcoming baby girl Yanay with his partner Edurne last week.

    Dean Henderson staked his claim to be Man Utd’s No1 with a commanding performanceCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd

    So between now and the international break, Henderson has been promised he will get the run of games he craves.
    And the 23-year-old gave a performance of huge maturity – even though he is something of a new arrival himself in terms of Manchester derbies.
    Apart from De Gea, the last United goalkeeper to play in a league derby was Edwin van der Sar – and he left in 2011.
    Before kick-off, former United skipper Roy Keane said: “Sometimes you need a bit of luck in your career, he’s got this opportunity, he’s got to take it.

    “He’s got to say to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the next few games that he believes he’s Manchester United’s future No 1 and to give him the job.”
    Yet nobody could say the 23-year-old does not deserve his chance after proving his credentials at Sheffield United this season.
    His last eight appearances for United going into this have seen seven clean sheets.
    Many expected this to be a busy afternoon for Henderson – but his team were already a goal up by the time he touched the ball.

    He was given a good feel of it when Ilkay Gundogan turned smartly on the edge of the box but his shot was too close to the keeper.
    The same could be said for Oleks Zinchenko when he got space on the edge of the box and stung the palms of Henderson.
    He tipped over a free-kick by Kevin de Bruyne – although it would probably have gone over anyway.
    Everything he did in the first half had authority about it – like he believes his time has come to be the new long-term keeper at United.
    There was plenty in his performance that would have impressed England manager Gareth Southgate – sat in the stands at the Etihad – too.
    Early in the second half, it was his quick thinking and throw that started the move which led to Luke Shaw putting United two goals up.
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    Henderson gets the high-five from Scott McTominay after another clean sheetCredit: PA:Press Association
    With Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof pushing further up than normal, City were struggling to get efforts in on goal.
    But when called upon, his handling was sure – particularly when the home side mounted a late charge.
    He also got a yellow card for time-wasting as United tried to catch their breath. It’s fair to say it won’t bother him too much.
    Another United legend Gary Neville was impressed with the way Henderson stepped into what he called one of the highest profile positions in world football.
    Neville said: “It’s a big ask to come into a game like this. Every game is a big one for him but he’s done everything really well, really composed.
    “De Gea will be watching back in Spain and looking at a very confident young goalkeeper.”
    Solskjaer must have been delighted too. He said before the game that Henderson should not see this as a genuine opportunity – not as a ‘resting pillow’.
    It could soon be De Gea having sleepless nights – and not just because of the arrival of his new daughter.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

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    Man Utd player ratings: Shaw a Euro shoes-in, Henderson stakes his claim and Martial drags City all over the park

    MANCHESTER UNITED eased to a derby day victory – and it was fully deserved against a lethargic Man City side.
    There wasn’t a poor performance in sight from anyone wearing red at the Etihad as United beat their noisy neighbours 2-0.

    Man Utd celebrate Luke Shaw firing them 2-0 ahead against Man CityCredit: Reuters

    Here, SunSport’s John Hutchinson rates how Solskjaer’s soldiers triumphed against the odds against the champions-elect.
    Dean Henderson – 8/10
    Has been given the chance of a lifetime to prove he is a future No1 with David de Gea given leave to celebrate the birth of his daughter.
    Confident with his distributions, strong-handed when he needed to be and vocal at the back – his time is now.
    Aaron Wan-Bissaka – 7
    Had his hands full with Sterling, one of the few players who can arguably beat him for pace.

    But stuck to the task and can be pleased with his solid showing.

    Victor Lindelof – 7
    Faces a real make-or-break end to the season, with rumours that United will move for a new centre-half this summer.
    Happy with City playing it around in midfield, and happy that Jesus had a mare.
    Harry Maguire – 8
    Comfortable against Jesus, and had the confidence to bring the ball out when needed.

    When he plays well, whoever is beside him tends to as well. Irreplaceable.
    Luke Shaw – 9
    Tricky customer in Mahrez attacking him and was done a few times in the first half – the old Shaw might have folded but this one stuck at it.
    Scored a brilliant goal to give United some breathing space early in the second half.
    England boss Gareth Southgate – who was in the stands at the Etihad – has to make him first-choice at left-back for the Euros.
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    Luke Shaw angled home his side’s second goal that eased them homeCredit: Reuters
    Scott McTominay – 7
    Preferred in the middle to Nemanja Matic – and not surprising Solskjaer opted for the academy lad.
    You wouldn’t have thought his team were 2-0 up as the clock ticked on, he was constantly cajoling his team-mates to dig in.
    Fred – 7
    Much better in the central midfield role alongside McTominay than the deeper-lying Matic.
    Needed to be disciplined today as City passed and passed – he was even getting involved in the counters.
    Dan James – 6
    Barely had a sniff in the first half – but perhaps he was used for his pace on the counter.
    His confidence is back for sure, and not afraid to have a run at defenders anymore.
    Bruno Fernandes – 6
    Was a shed-load better than his abject display against Crystal Palace – but that was always going to be the case.
    Still looks like he could do with a rest, but set the tone with his first-minute penalty.

    Bruno Fernandes stepped up to score an early penaltyCredit: Reuters
    Marcus Rashford – 6
    Started the first half brightly, but like most of his team-mates had to sit and watch City control possession.
    Replaced by Greenwood after picking up an injury in the second half – was a quiet game for the school dinners hero.
    Anthony Martial – 8
    Made an instant impact – just seconds were on the clock when he drew a lazy foul from Gabriel Jesus to win a penalty – and Bruno did his job.
    Denied by an excellent save by Ederson on 68 minutes, deserved a goal for his hard work. Even hinted at a smile as he was replaced late on.

    Anthony Martial can be well pleased with his contributionCredit: AFP
    Subs
    Mason Greenwood (replaced Rashford, 73) – 6
    Tracked back when he needed to to kill the game.
    Nemanja Matic (replaced Martial, 89) – N/A
    Brandon Williams (replaced Fernandes, 90+2) – N/A
    Subs (not used): Eric Bailly, Lee Grant, Amad Diallo, Alex Telles, Axel Tuanzebe, Shola Shoretire.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

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    Man Utd and City combined XI: Pep Guardiola’s Prem table-toppers dominate again with potentially NO Reds in team

    MANCHESTER CITY are looking to create club history when they welcome rivals Manchester United to the Etihad on Sunday.
    The Citizens go into the derby clash winning their last 21 games in all competitions, while they need to avoid defeat to break their 28-match unbeaten streak.

    Manchester City go into their clash against United at the Etihad as favourites to win

    Pep Guardiola’s men are 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League table and sit 14 points above the Red Devils.
    But City haven’t fared well against Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side in recent derbies – winning just one out of their last four fixtures against United.
    And SunSport has created a combined XI ahead of the game, and it isn’t good viewing for United fans.
    GOALKEEPER – Ederson
    Having kept 15 clean sheets in 26 Premier League games as well as conceding just 16 goals, you cannot look past Ederson.

    The Brazilian shot-stopper has once again been in inspired form this campaign and he even has an assist to his name after finding Ilkay Gundogan in the 3-0 win against Tottenham.
    United’s first choice goalkeeper David De Gea will not be in action against City, and while Dean Henderson has impressed this term, he is no match for Ederson.
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    DEFENDERS – Walker, Dias, Stones, Cancelo
    Having not lost since November, it should come as no surprise that City have conceded the few goals in the top-flight.

    They have let in just 17 goals in the Premier League this term compared to the 32 United have shipped in.
    And Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, John Stones and Joao Cancelo are equally as much as a threat in the final third.
    Between them this campaign, they have contributed to nine goals in the Premier League – with Stones scoring on three occasions.
    The only United player that could get into City’s defence would be Luke Shaw, but the England ace can’t compete with Cancelo’s blistering pace.
    MIDFIELDERS – Rodri, Gundogan, De Bruyne
    City boast the best defensive midfielder, central midfielder and playmaker in the league in Rodri, Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne.
    Gundogan has been the Premier League’s player of the season so far having chipped in with 11 goals and two assists.
    He has outshone his team-mate De Bruyne has 11 assists to his name so far.
    It’s harsh on Bruno Fernandes who has once again starred for United this season, but the Portugal international isn’t yet at De Bruyne’s level.

    FORWARDS – Foden, Jesus, Sterling
    It’s a clean sweep for City with the club having three of their players starting in attack ahead of United’s Marcus Rashford, Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial.
    Phil Foden – who has been the league’s young player of the year so far – has often been playing from the left, but he is more than capable of being deployed on the right flank.
    Raheem Sterling slots in on the left wing, with Gabriel Jesus leading the line ahead of team-mate Sergio Aguero.

    This is another way of how a combined XI between United and City could look

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    Man Utd captain Harry Maguire says next two weeks ‘define season’ and desperate for ‘bragging rights’ by beating City

    HARRY MAGUIRE wants to start a make-or-break fortnight for Manchester United by stopping their bitter rivals’ winning run.
    United go to Manchester City today in the first of five massive games in the space of just two weeks.

    Harry Maguire is licking his lips at locking horns with Manchester CityCredit: Getty – Pool

    And skipper Maguire aims to halt City’s 21-game winning streak while also stretching United’s own unbeaten away record to 22 games.
    United then face a two- legged Europa League tie with AC Milan, Prem clash with West Ham and FA Cup quarter-final with Leicester.
    Maguire admitted: “The next two weeks will define our season.
    “We want to get through in the Europa League and the FA Cup is also a big priority as we have to start winning trophies.

    “But, first, we have the Manchester derby and that is such a big game.
    “We have drawn our last three matches, so want to bounce back to winning ways.
    “But we have a good record when we go to City. When you play for this club, or manage this club, you are always two weeks away from scrutiny or criticism.
    “So, yes, this is an important time. When you play for this club, you just know what to expect.”

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    Magure admits United are heading into a vital two weeksCredit: Rex Features

    Maguire, 28, accepts he faces a tough clash against Pep Guardiola’s runaway Premier League leaders.
    He said: “We want to end their record because we want points on the board.
    “It is a Manchester derby so we want the bragging rights. But we have got to focus on ourselves — not City.
    “We have a great away record, a long unbeaten one, and they are on a long winning record, so one record will be broken. Hopefully it is not ours.
    “Our dressing room before the game will be really loud. But it is not the same as going out and having that great atmosphere with the fans and we cannot wait for them to be back.”

    Who will come out on top in the Manchester derby?Credit: Getty Images – Getty
    United have seen their outside title hopes fall apart with two wins in eight Premier League matches.
    Maguire added: “It is hard to put our finger on it because our form has not been up to the standard which you expect from a club like United.
    “Away from home at the start of the season, we were conceding the first goal and then coming back into games which was strange.
    “Recently, we have drawn too many away from home, so we need to look at it and take a few more risks in games.”
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    Jack Grealish jokes Man Utd don’t need him because they already have Bruno Fernandes amid transfer links

    JACK GREALISH says there was no point in Manchester United signing him last summer – because Bruno Fernandes had already taken his gig.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was said to be keen on the Aston Villa ace until club chiefs scared him off by slapping an £80million price-tag on their iconic skipper’s head.

    Jack Grealish has joked Man Utd don’t need him as they already have Bruno FernandesCredit: AFP or licensors

    Fernandes has been an instant hit since signing for United a year ago, propelling the club from fighting for a Europa League spot to a Premier League title race

    Grealish signed a lucrative new £100,000-a-week, five-year-contract to remain Villa’s poster-boy in September.
    Now he has jokingly revealed there wasn’t space in United’s midfield for two maverick midfielders during a light-hearted video interview with YouTuber and avid United fan Harry Pinero.
    He put Grealish on the spot by asking him why he didn’t sign for United in the summer.
    But the midfielder weaved around the question and replied: “You’ve got Bruno anyway.”

    Pinero persisted, claiming: “You’ve got the filthiest first touch in the Prem.”
    However, Grealish showed his interviewer a clean pair of heels by praising Fernandes and his own idol, Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne.
    “No, that’s not true,” said Grealish. “I do some alright touches but come on, you need to put a bit of respect on Bruno and KDB.
    “De Bruyne, he’s my favourite player. I think he’s probably the most perfect player in the Prem.

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    “I just try and take little bits out of his game. I want to improve on and that’s looking at De Bruyne’s game and what he does.”
    Grealish will miss tomorrow’s Midlands derby against Wolves with a leg injury.
    But he revealed he took a pain-killing jab earlier this season and was rewarded by ‘having the most fun he’s had on the pitch’ – beating Liverpool 7-2.
    Grealish said: “Before the game I had to have an injection and I was a bit like, ‘I don’t know how I am going to feel here’.
    “Then as soon as you go 2-0, 3-0, up I was like this is mad. You’re just in a bubble and you forget about the injury.”
    Grealish nutmegged Virgil Van Dijk – a video that was shared on social media – but says he didn’t keep it as a reminder for himself.
    He added: “No, do you know why? I’ve actually got to put too much respect on his name because he’s the best centre-half in the world.
    “I couldn’t even try to mug it like that. Obviously it was an off day for them.”
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