More stories

  • in

    Greenwood reveals Solskjaer gave striker tips aged SEVEN at Man Utd… a decade before handing him first-team debut

    MASON GREENWOOD was taking Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s advice long before his Manchester United debut – even as a seven-year-old.
    The Norwegian spoke to Greenwood while the striker was still a young lad in the academy.

    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer first gave advice to Mason Greenwood over a decade ago – when the forward was aged just sevenCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Playing in the youth setup alongside Solskjaer’s son, Noah, he was given a few tips while the club legend did his training badges.
    Greenwood, 19, recalled in a chat with Rio Ferdinand for BT Sport: “He spoke to me.
    “He came and did his coaching badges at United.
    “I was only with the Under-8s and Under-9s and I trained with his son.

    “He was telling me about that, I couldn’t remember it because I was so young but he told me about it.
    “He always speaks about movements into the box, shooting and stuff, so it was a good benefit to have him there.”
    Solskjaer would later hand Greenwood his United debut in September 2019, days before he turned 18.
    The teenager continues to show glimpses of his true potential and has recently put together a strong run in the Red Devils side.

    And the manager will decide between Greenwood, Daniel James and Anthony Martial to start in Sunday’s game with Newcastle.
    Shortly after the academy graduate made his debut, Solskjaer discussed his memories of encountering the young Greenwood.
    He said in December 2019: “I actually do remember when I met him for the first time because my son was training at the Cliff as an eight-year-old and Mason was seven.
    ONLINE CASINO OFFERS: CLAIM OVER £800 IN BONUS CASH

    Solskjaer and Greenwood recently posed together for the striker’s new contractCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    “The first time I saw him he stood out and I took a picture with him. Now he’s here.
    “I asked him [for the photo] because I knew he was going to be a player. He has probably got it or his dad has probably got it.
    “I do remember the kid because I remember talking to Noah about that. So when he signed his contract we had a little nice memory.”
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Mason Greenwood admits he wants to be Man Utd’s centre forward More

  • in

    Amad Diallo makes Man Utd debut against Real Sociedad as fans get chance to see whizkid in action

    AMAD DIALLO was finally handed his Manchester United debut in the Europa League win at Real Sociedad.
    The 18-year-old wonderkid was named on the bench at the Juventus Stadium in what turned out to be a comfortable 4-0 win for the Red Devils.

    Amad Dialo made his debut off the bench for Manchester United agains SociedadCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Wonderkid Diallo played the last seven minutes of the clash in TurinCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer congratulates Amad Diallo, 18, after the teenager made his Man Utd debut against Real SociedadCredit: Reuters

    Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer handed the youngster his bow in the final seven minutes of the game.
    With the result already in the bag, the Ivorian didn’t have much time to show what he is all about.
    Bruno Fernandes scored twice and Marcus Rashford added a third before Daniel James scored United to put one foot into the last-16.
    United fans are buzzing at the potential the £37million signing has already shown.

    Earlier this month, Diallo hit the headlines when he scored a goal and grabbed THREE assists in a thrilling 6-4 win for Man Utd’s Under-23s over Blackburn Rovers.
    Solskjaer is also said to have been mightily impressed with the flashes the teenage winger has shown in training.
    Diallo was signed by United last October from Serie A club Atalanta, with whom he remained on loan with until January.
    Diallo, who penned a five-year deal at Old Trafford, was delighted with his move to the Premier League big boys, saying last month: “I’m over the moon to be here.

    FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN SIGN UP OFFERS HERE

    Amad Diallo signed for Manchester United last October but officially joined the club in January
    “I’m so excited to start here at Manchester United. It’s a dream come true and I can’t wait to start and play with the guys.”
    He added: “It’s been a little bit strange these last few months.
    “I would have hoped to have played a little bit more with Atalanta, but it wasn’t possible.
    “Now I’m here and I’m very happy to be here.
    “I’m expecting a lot from my experience here and I’m looking forward to starting.”
    Solskjaer’s decision to hand Diallo his debut stemmed from the winger impressing him in training.
    The Norwegian said of winter signing: “Amad has looked really comfortable and he’s settled in really well in training

    “But hopefully we can see him on the pitch in not too long.
    “It shows how technically adept he is and, of course, we’ll give him time to settle and adjust.
    “He’s definitely done well in training.”
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Amad Diallo shows his skills in his first Man Utd training session More

  • in

    Man Utd verdict: Marcus Rashford shows quality with goal but must still learn from world-class Haaland and Mbappe

    THERE is a revolution brewing.
    This week we have seen Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland emphasise their claims to the throne of the world’s best player.

    Marcus Rashford came through a tough first-half to score on Thursday nightCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Can the Manchester United star enter the world’s true elite?Credit: AFP OR LICENSORS

    Standing in their path are the old guard, namely Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who may just be showing the first signs of decline.
    But can Marcus Rashford join this youthful duo in storming the gates?
    Named the world’s most valuable player by the respected CIES Football Observatory earlier in the year, it is certainly true that he has greatness in him.
    So what does the Manchester United forward need to do to elevate himself to the very top level?

    Technique, pace, vision and both a mental and physical strength are all abundant in Rashford’s arsenal.
    But perhaps that final string to his bow still yet to arrive is that composure in front of goal.
    In Thursday’s Europa League game against Real Sociedad, the 23-year-old put himself in a number of great positions and struck the third goal of a 4-0 win after a wobbly first-half.
    In the second minute, he broke through one-on-one and placed his effort straight at Alex Remiro in the Spanish side’s goal.

    ONLINE CASINO OFFERS: CLAIM OVER £800 IN BONUS CASH

    Then a veritable sitter came his way later in the half, teed up by Bruno Fernandes but again struck directly at the goalkeeper.
    Fans could not be blamed for having their doubts over a man who had scored only two goals in 13 games ahead of the Turin trip.
    And when Rashford did finally find the back of the next just after the hour mark, as United turned this potentially tricky Europa League clash into a rout, it certainly wasn’t for the lack of trying.
    The England man broke in behind the Real Sociedad backline, opened up his body as we’ve seen many times before, and calmly showed his ruthless edge.
    His seven goals in Europe this season are the most an Englishman has scored since Bobby Charlton in 1965, and second to only Haaland this year.
    But it could have been many more.
    It is true that the big competitions are often the making of world-class players but Rashford still has some way to go to match Mbappe and Haaland overall, given his career ratio of three games per goal for United.
    The Paris Saint-Germain forward may play in a better team and a less renowned league but boasts a 1.37 games per goal tally, and such counter arguments could not be made of the Barcelona side he buried on Tuesday.
    It is hard to make similar claims against Borussia Dortmund and yet Haaland still averages more-or-less a goal every game.
    It is perhaps to Rashford’s detriment, in this particular regard, that he has upped his creative game of late, helping set up his side’s first two goals on Thursday.

    Kylian Mbappe subjected Barcelona to a merciless hat-trick earlier in the weekCredit: AFP or licensors

    Erling Haaland scored twice past Sevilla in the Champions LeagueCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    A superstar like Ronaldo is expertly greedy to an almost insufferable level, something which the England star seems to be pulling away from rather than pushing towards.
    Thursday also showed how United may need Rashford to close that scoring gap, given their reliance Bruno Fernandes for star power with Edinson Cavani their only other reliable finisher.
    There is absolutely no doubt that Rashford will be a very good player for years to come and he may have his hands on some serious silverware before long.
    But this week has seen a marker laid down by those heading for the very top, can he meet it?
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Marcus Rashford says his child food poverty campaign is only just beginning More

  • in

    Marcus Rashford vows NEVER to give up fight for British kids as Man Utd star admits campaigning has made him a ‘target’

    MARCUS RASHFORD pledged to never give up his fight for Britain’s kids – but accepted he had become a “target” for being outspoken.
    The Manchester United and England striker has been transformed into a social reformer and substantial political figure after forcing at least two Government policy U-turns on feeding youngsters.

    Marcus Rashford has discussed becoming a ‘target’ for his campaigningCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Rashford’s public stance saw him criticised widely before PM Boris Johnson made his hasty policy changes.
    But Rashford insisted he is just at the beginning of a lifelong campaign to improve the lives of the country’s poorest families.
    Rashford said: “I understood I was a target already. 
    “Being a footballer for one of the biggest clubs in the world is going to bring attention. I knew what I was stepping into.

    “There were people who had opinions before they’d ever met or spoke with me. I’ve come to terms with that. It’s part of my life.
    “The effect it will have on me, the campaign is much bigger than that. 

    Rashford has been lauded as a national hero for tireless campaign to feed hungry childrenCredit: PA:Press Association

    The England striker successfully urged Boris Johnson to extend the free school meals schemeCredit: PA:Press Association
    “I’m willing to take the little bit of aggravation from wherever it comes from.”
    Speaking to the FT Business of Football Summit, he added: “We’ve taken a lot of steps in the fight direction.

    “I’ve raised awareness for this topic, so I’m pleased we have made some progress but I’m still hungry and wanting to do more.
    “Before this campaign I hadn’t been one to speak up about my upbringing. I just got on with my job of playing football. 
    “The time came for me to speak out. We found ways to help and people and businesses who joined us were much more powerful than I was.
    “I was dead proud of everyone for being so kind hearted and willing to do so. It’s been an amazing journey.

    We wouldn’t have to say this if it had started 15 or 20 years ago and I hope you will see the benefits in 10 or 15 years from now.
    Marcus Rashford

    “But it’s a long process. I’m not asking for it all to be done at once because that’s not possible and I know it will cost a lot of money.
    “We wouldn’t have to say this if it had started 15 or 20 years ago and I hope you will see the benefits in 10 or 15 years from now. 
    “It will not stop me pushing forward with something these families need.”
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Marcus Rashford’s old friend hails his free school meals campaign as her family still benefits More

  • in

    Man Utd ‘willing to splash out £61m on Sevilla defender Jules Kounde this summer’ to find new Harry Maguire partner

    MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly prepared to bid for Sevilla’s Jules Kounde in their search for a new defensive star.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has failed to create a backline worthy of a serious title challenge, with the Red Devils conceding more goals than Brighton, Burnley and Arsenal this season.

    Jules Kounde has caught the eye since signing for Sevilla in 2019Credit: Getty Images – Getty

    Former defender Gary Neville recently described the partnership between Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof as a big ‘problem’ – but the £80million club captain likely to partner any new addition.
    A potential move for RB Leipzig’s Dayot Upamecano was ended by him agreeing to sign for Bayern Munich.
    Therefore, a move for fellow French centre-back Kounde is thought to be on their radar.
    According to Spanish outlet La Razon, United are preparing a £61m bid for the 22-year-old.

    Paris Saint-Germain are also in the hunt for a new defender with Sergio Ramos a target.
    If the Ligue 1 side fail to land the Spanish veteran, they are reportedly ready to pay Kounde’s full £78m release clause.
    Real – currently in talks with Ramos over his future – are also monitoring Sevilla star Kounde.
    Raphael Varane is another centre-back who may be leaving the Spanish capital in the summer, with Manchester United one potential destination.

    ONLINE CASINO OFFERS: CLAIM OVER £800 IN BONUS CASH

    But Real are not thought to be able to match the transfer fees being discussed in the Red Devils’ and PSG’s plans.
    Sevilla paid over £20m for Kounde from Bordeaux in 2019.
    The France Under-21 international quickly established himself in the team, sat fourth in LaLiga.
    Kounde even played an unusual role in Sevilla’s ten-game winning run ahead of a Champions League meeting with Borussia Dortmund, scoring a spectacular goal against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Teden Mengi reveals Man Utd trio Harry Maguire, Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba are three leaders of team WhatsApp chat More

  • in

    How Man Utd could line up against Real Sociedad with Amad Diallo CONFIRMED in squad but Solskjaer facing striker crisis

    AMAD DIALLO could make his Manchester United debut in the Europa League clash against Real Sociedad on Thursday.
    The Ivorian winger, 18, arrived at Old Trafford from Atalanta for £37million in January in a deal that was initially agreed last summer.

    And after stunning onlookers with his performances for the Under-23s, Diallo has been named in the squad that will travel to Turin – where the last 32 first leg is being held amid coronavirus restrictions.
    Diallo has bagged three goals and as many assists in just two games for Neil Wood’s youth side and could make his first-team bow in Europe.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is experiencing something of a forward crisis with Edinson Cavani ruled out and Anthony Martial struggling.
    Uruguayan striker Cavani and Dutch midfielder Donny van de Beek both have muscle injuries so will remain at Carrington.

    And the Norwegian boss is also sweating on the fitness of Martial and midfielder Scott McTominay.

    Paul Pogba is still sidelined and will not return to competitive action until next month.
    Solskjaer said: “Paul is recovering well. He’s starting the treatment but it will still be a few weeks.
    “He won’t be playing in February, that’s for sure, it’s still a few weeks before we see Paul definitely.

    “Apart from that, we have a couple of doubtful ones, if they’ll be fit enough – Anthony and Scott.
    “Donny and Edinson are injured unfortunately, muscle injuries, so they won’t travel.”
    BETS OF THE DAY: GET MAN CITY AT 6/1 TO WIN TONIGHT – PLUS RONALDO TO SCORE 2+ GOALS BOOSTED

    Diallo is most likely to start on the bench alongside 17-year-old wonderkid Shola Shoretire who could also be handed a senior debut after being included in the 22-man travelling party.
    But with Cavani, Pogba, Van de Beek and Martial all potentially out he could land a starting spot.
    Mason Greenwood is set to start fresh from signing a bumper new four-year deal at the club.
    With McTominay in a race to be fit, experienced Serb Nemanja Matic is likely to deputise alongside Fred in the heart of midfield.
    United go into the tie aiming to finally snare some silverware after falling at the semi-final stage last season and dropping down from the Champions League after finishing third in their group.
    And the Red Devils can be confident of success after a supercomputer predicted they will lift the Europa League trophy this season.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Man Utd new boy Amad Diallo tipped to become ‘world beater’ as Rio Ferdinand compares £37m signing to Cristiano Ronaldo More

  • in

    Man Utd legend Sir Alex Ferguson’s biggest fear was losing his memory after suffering brain haemorrhage in 2018

    SIR ALEX FERGUSON feared he would lose his memory after suffering a brain haemorrhage in 2018.
    The world of football held it’s breath after the legendary former Manchester United manager was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery.

    Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he feared he would lose his memoryCredit: AFP – Getty

    But thankfully the procedure was a success, and after less than a month Fergie was back at home being nursed back to health by his loved ones.
    Now the 79-year-old is set to speak about the time he fought for his life in ‘Sir Alex Ferguson: Never Give In’, out in the cinemas from May 27.
    It will then be available exclusively on Amazon Prime from May 29.
    Directed by his son Jason, the documentary will recount the most important stories of his life, both in and out of football.

    Speaking about the film, Fergie said: “Losing my memory was my biggest fear when I suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2018.
    “In the making of this film I was able to revisit the most important moments of my life, good and bad.
    “Having my son Jason direct this film has ensured an honest and intimate account.”
    The documentary vows to show the football legend vividly recalling his career – recounting the stories behind his most influential defeats, trophies and players.

    FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN SIGN UP OFFERS HERE

    Sir Alex and wife Cathy, with their twins Jason and Darren back in the dayCredit: Getty – Contributor

    Fergie received a CBE from the Prince Of Wales in 1995Credit: PA:Press Association

    It charts his move from his own successful playing career and prolific goal-scoring at Scottish clubs, including Rangers, to his move into management and leading Aberdeen to the European Cup Winners’ Cup and then finally his move south to Old Trafford.
    After a testing few years at United, he turned the club’s fortunes around and led them to over two decades of consistent success.
    Under Ferguson’s guidance, Manchester United won a glittering array of trophies, including 13 Premier League titles, five FA Cups and two UEFA Champions League titles.
    He has won more trophies than any other manager in football history.
    The film features candid interviews with Sir Alex himself, his wife Cathy, his three sons, as well as former colleagues and elite players including Eric Cantona, Ryan Giggs, Gordon Strachan and Archie Knox.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Sir Alex Ferguson is the most decorated manager of all timeCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd

    The football legend still attends various sporting events when he canCredit: EPA

    Alex Ferguson talks about trying to sign Paul Gascoigne for Man Utd More

  • in

    Man Utd name 17-year-old wonderkid Shola Shoretire in Europa League squad to face Real Sociedad

    MANCHESTER UNITED have named 17-year-old starlet Shola Shoretire in their squad for the Europa League last 32 tie against Real Sociedad.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Red Devils enter the Europa League at the first knockout stage after finishing third in their Champions League group.

    Shola Shoretire has been named in a 27-man squad ahead of Manchester United’s Europa League game against Real SociedadCredit: Getty Images – Getty

    Teenage forward Shoretire has already begun training with the first team, having impressed under Neil Wood with the Under-23s.
    He was promoted to the senior side – alongside French prodigy Hannibal Mejbri – after smashing home a hat-trick against Blackburn Rovers for the youth side.
    The talented youngster only signed professional terms at Old Trafford earlier this month.
    Shoretire has been named in an initial 27-strong group that includes four goalkeepers.

    Clubs are allowed to name 12 substitutes which means Shoretire has a good chance of making the cut for the travelling party.
    Amad Diallo is also in the squad after his £37million move from Atalanta in January.
    Academy boss Wood warned the club to be patient with the 18-year-old Ivorian who has made a big impact already at Carrington.
    Diallo bagged three goals and as many assists in his first two games for the Under-23s, including a cheeky Panenka penalty.

    BARCA vs PSG OFFER: GET MESSI AND MBAPPE TO SCORE AT 70/1

    United will travel to Turin rather than the Basque country for Thursday night’s game amid coronavirus travel restrictions.
    But Uefa have given the club the green light to host the return leg on home soil as Sociedad will have spent less than 48 hours in Manchester, meaning they are not bound by the requirements so can play at Old Trafford.
    United finished behind Paris Saint-Germain and RB Leipzig in Europe’s premier competition and now face a two-legged tie against LaLiga side Sociedad.
    Solskjaer’s men crashed out at the semi-final stage of the tournament last season, losing to eventual winners Sevilla.
    ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

    Man United wonderkid Shola Shoretire scores ‘brilliant’ goal vs Wigan U18 at just 16 More