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    Man Utd ratings: Jadon Sancho finally shows potential as he thrives in new role, but Antony continues to frustrate

    MANCHESTER UNITED beat Arsenal 2-0 in their first pre-season friendly in the US.United dominated the Gunners at MetLife in New Jersey, and showed potential heading to the upcoming Premier League season.
    Manchester United destroyed Arsenal in their pre-season friendlyCredit: Getty
    The Red Devils broke the deadlock in the half-hour mark with a powerful long-range shot by Bruno Fernandes that Aaron Ramsdale failed to hold onto.
    This came after some poor marking by Arsenal defenders Gabriel Mahalhaes and Takehiro Tomiyasu down the left.
    United doubled their lead just seven minutes later when Gabriel lost possession in midfield and that allowed Jadon Sancho to run through and beat Ramsdale with a clinical finish.
    But who stood out and who struggled for Man Utd? SunSport’s Neil Custis rates every single player at MetLife Stadium:
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    TOM HEATON – 7
    A rare appearance for the United No2 but the 37-year-old veteran remains sharp. He produced a superb double save from Gabriel Martinelli early on which had his team-mates patting him on the back in congratulations.
    AARON WAN-BISSAKA – 7
    It was an all action display from the full-back who constantly got forward to help the attack and even slotted into the midfield for a short time.
    RAPHAEL VARANE – 7
    A cool calm presence in the heat of New Jersey. He looks totally unflustered as he goes about his business of keeping opponents away from goal.
    LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6
    Nobody loves a tackle more than the fiery Argentine. But one caused a commotion when he went through Bukayo Saka causing a melee and bringing him a yellow card. He was quick to seek out Saka at half-time to explain there was no malice intended.
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    LUKE SHAW – 6
    The consistent left-back produces a fine first-choice back line for United. Like Wan-Bissaka he is always keen to get forward and service from the flank.
    MASON MOUNT – 6
    A quiet half from the new signing but did produce one great bit of combination play with Antony as he forged forward exchanging passes. Likes to be an organiser too.
    BRUNO FERNANDES – 8
    The captain celebrated officially taking the armband with the opening goal as he struck from just outside the area. Not that Aaron Ramsdale will want to see it again as the ball bounced up of his outstretched hand and in.
    KOBBIE MAINOO – 6
    These pre-season games can often bring an academy graduate to the fore and this year it is 18-year-old Mainoo. He has impressed manager Erik ten Hag enough in training to earn his chant and didn’t look out of place in this strong starting XI.
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    Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring for Man Utd with a powerful shotCredit: EPA
    ANTONY – 6
    Ten Hag will be expecting more from his former Ajax winger this season after an up-and-down first campaign. He has the speed and ability but United fans will want to see more than just cutting inside from the right and having a go with his left.
    JADON SANCHO – 8
    With United desperately searching for a new striker they are having to mix and match at the moment and on this occasion it was Sancho put upfront through the middle. What a goal he scored too on 37 minutes taking advantage of a Gabriel error and race away to fire into the near top corner.
    ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6
    A lot of United fans rave about him but so far it has only been in late cameos as a substitute where he shines. When he starts it’s not quite as good as this game proved again.
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    DIOGO DALOT – 6
    Very much the understudy to Wan-Bissaka now but what an option for Ten Hag to call upon. He rates him, which is why he was given a new contract to 2028.
    Jadon Sancho stood out for Manchester United against ArsenalCredit: Getty
    HARRY MAGUIRE – 6
    It is a tough time for Maguire after having the captaincy taken off him. He is not happy about it and a move is on the cards, although Ten Hag says he wants him to stay and fight for his place. Did his job here.
    VICTOR LINDELOF – 7
    The manager says he wants four centre-backs fighting for two places this season and Lindelof is very much number three on the list.
    BRANDON WILLIAMS – 6
    Could be one of those on his way with little chance of much first-team action. But he produced a brilliant diving header in front of his own goal to deny Leandro Trossard.
    CASEMIRO – 6
    A quiet game for the 31-year-old Brazilian who looked to be struggling in the heat. Unlike many of his team-mates it looks like he is going to need a few games to get back up to speed.
    Manchester United star Antony couldn’t shine against ArsenalCredit: Reuters
    CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6
    His form dropped last season after an injury but looked back to his best again here operating alongside Casemiro. Although it looks like he’ll be the one stepping aside more often now Mount has arrived.
    AMAD DIALLO – 5
    Didn’t last long after an early challenge in the second half put him out the game.
    FACUNDO PELLISITRI – 6
    Came on for Amad in the 59th minute and nearly got a spectacular goal similar to Sancho’s as he raced clear and fired just over the near top corner.
    SCOTT MCTOMINAY – 5
    Operated in the Fernandes role just behind the front man but did not look as comfortable as he does when playing from deeper.
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    MARCUS RASHFORD – 6
    Played as the No9 rather than in his preferred role off the left and that could be long term if United cannot get a striker in. Missed a chance from a yard at the far post and will have been happy to learn he was offside.
    OMARI FORSON – 5
    The attacking midfielder impressed for the club’s under-18 side last season earning him a start against Leeds in the pre-season friendly in Oslo and then an invite out to the US. Will take time to adjust to his new senior team-mates. More

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    Arsenal player ratings: Odegaard only shining light as Declan Rice anonymous amid defensive horror show

    ARSENAL lost 2-0 to Premier League rivals Manchester United following a disappointing performance in the US.The Gunners took on United at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey and failed to replicate their dominant display against the MLS All-Stars on Wednesday.
    Arsenal lost 2-0 to Manchester United after a poor display in the USCredit: Getty
    The Red Devils opened the scoring in the half-hour mark with a powerful long-range shot by Bruno Fernandes that Aaron Ramsdale failed to hold onto.
    Gabriel Magalhaes and Takehiro Tomiyasu also took too long to close Fernandes down.
    United doubled their lead just seven minutes later when Gabriel lost possession in midfield and that allowed Jadon Sancho to break through and beat Ramsdale with a clinical finish.
    But who stood out and who struggled for Arsenal? SunSport’s Kostas Lianos rates every single player at MetLife Stadium:
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    AARON RAMSDALE – 4
    Couldn’t inspire the same level of confidence between the sticks like he did against the MLS All-Stars. Carries responsibility for Bruno Fernandes’ goal and didn’t save a single penalty.
    JURRIEN TIMBER – 5
    Very few moments of brilliance from the summer signing, who started at right-back. But Timber showed he could form a good partnership with Bukayo Saka down the wing.
    WILLIAM SALIBA – 5
    Struggled during Manchester United’s counter-attacks. Mikel Arteta would have expected more from his star centre-back.
    GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 2
    Carries responsibility for both goals as he failed to mark Fernandes during his run and was the one that gave the ball away before Jadon Sancho’s strike.
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    TAKEHIRO TOMIYASU – 3
    Struggled throughout the first half and was rightfully taken off at half-time. Also partly responsible for Fernandes’ goal as he didn’t mark him on time – was playing out of position at left-back, though.
    DECLAN RICE – 5
    Arsenal fans will be expecting much more from their club record signing this coming season. Failed to anchor the Gunners’ midfield and was mostly anonymous throughout the match – early days, though.
    KAI HAVERTZ – 5
    Also uninspiring, just like his other two fellow summer arrivals. Played on the left in midfield and couldn’t cause United any problems.
    MARTIN ODEGAARD – 6
    Probably the best of the worst, but not by much. Showed some moments of brilliance and almost got Arsenal back in the game with a clever through-ball from a free-kick only for Eddie Nketiah to miss from close range.
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    Arsenal’s star signing Declan Rice was largely anonymous against Man UtdCredit: Getty
    BUKAYO SAKA – 5
    Showed he could form a good partnership with Timber on the right flank. But was a far cry from his dominant performance against the All-Stars where he amassed two assists.
    GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 5
    Largely anonymous for Arsenal during both halves. Couldn’t create any significant dangers on the left for either United right-back.
    EDDIE NKETIAH – 4
    Had a perfect chance to put Arsenal back in the game when he missed from close range after a brilliant through pass by Odegaard. Will have to do a lot more to take Gabriel Jesus’ place.
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    KIERAN TIERNEY – 5
    Did better than Tomiyasu on the left but didn’t add any significant spark. Seems to be on his way out.
    Jurrien Timber started alongside fellow summer signing Rice and Kai HavertzCredit: Getty
    GABRIEL JESUS – 5
    Didn’t add anything significant after coming off the bench. But he doesn’t have to stress about his place in Arteta’s starting XI yet…
    BEN WHITE – 5
    Didn’t add much more in defence but kept United at bay. Far fewer leaks on the right than there were on the left during the second half.
    THOMAS PARTEY – 5
    Failed to inspire any confidence in midfield after his introduction during the second half. Partey’s future is still uncertain.
    JORGINHO – 5
    Nothing much from the midfielder. Jorginho and Partey failed to limit United’s attacks after their introduction in the second half and also didn’t push their team-mates forward.
    LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4
    Scored an incredible goal against the MLS All-Stars and dominated during Arsenal’s first game of their US tour. Couldn’t emulate any of that against United but came back from a knock he suffered against the All-Stars.
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    EMILE SMITH ROWE – 4
    Came on quite late and couldn’t set the game alight. Smith Rowe was largely anonymous after his introduction.
    FABIO VIEIRA – 4
    Struggled to keep United quiet, just like Partey and Jorginho. Didn’t do much to shield the back four and then missed a penalty for good measure. More

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    Man Utd suffer huge injury blow as winger struggles to walk after being subbed off just 13 minutes after coming on

    MANCHESTER UNITED are sweating on Amad Diallo after the sub winger struggled to even walk after being forced off injured against Arsenal.The former Sunderland loan sensation, 21, lasted just 13 minutes during the second half of Saturday’s friendly in the MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.
    Amad Diallo was crocked as he bids to earn a first-team spot this seasonCredit: Rex
    Uruguayan Facundo Pellistri came on for Diallo just before the hour mark.
    Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho struck fiercely-driven goals late in the first half, which would see United secure a 2-0 win.
    And the Red Devils’ high-tempo style impressed after the break – until Diallo’s injury and the inevitable batch of substitutions.
    The four-cap Ivorian, was helped along the touchline as he limped away following his substitution.
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    He appeared ultra careful not to put pressure on his left foot.
    Diallo’s blow will be especially disappointing to the ex-Atalanta starlet as he attempts to finally break through for United.
    A clutch of clubs were keen on his services after he nearly fired Sunderland to promotion from the Championship.
    Instead it was another wideman – under-pressure Sancho – who literally took his chance to press for a regular starting role.
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    Fernandes cut in from the right to fizz home a 20-yard left-footer on the half-hour that the diving Aaron Ramsey perhaps should have kept out.
    And seven minutes later Sancho punished dozy defending by Gabriel when he burst into the right of the box for a top-corner finish. More

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    Arsenal and Man Utd fans absolutely baffled as they discover very bizarre rule change minutes before friendly

    MANCHESTER UNITED and Arsenal fans were left baffled after finding out there would be a penalty shootout regardless of the scoreline in their friendly.United and the Gunners faced off in a pre-season clash at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
    Arsenal and Manchester United fans were baffled with rule change before their friendlyCredit: AFP
    Arsenal and Man Utd had a penalty shootout after full time even though the match didn’t end in a drawCredit: Getty
    Fans were left stunned by the news as they stormed social media to expresses their shock.
    One fan tweeted: “But why?”
    Another posted: “Another reason why football should never be soccer.”
    A third wrote: “So if Arsenal wins at fulltime, and Man Utd wins penalty shootout.. who will be winners?”
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    This fan said: “Welcome to USA.”
    And that one stated: “USA does things different.”
    However, it turned out that the shootout was nothing to do with the match being held in the United States.
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    In fact, managers Mikel Arteta and Erik ten Hag made the decision in order for their players to hone their skills from the spot in front of a capacity crowd.
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    But United’s new goalkeeper Andre Onana did not get to showcase his penalty-saving abilities in the US.
    The Red Devils announced the £47million signing of Onana from Inter Milan on Thursday.
    But the friendly with Arsenal came too early for David de Gea’s replacement.
    Man Utd ran out 2-0 winners over 90 minutes in New Jersey through goals from Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho.
    And they then followed that up with a victory in the shootout as Arsenal’s Fabio Vieira blasted the ball over the bar. More

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    Ex-Man Utd star, 36, likened to World Cup legend retires with heartfelt message saying: ‘My dreams have come true’

    GIUSEPPE ROSSI has announced his retirement from football at the age of 36 with a touching message.Rossi started out at Manchester United’s academy in 2004 and his talent led to comparisons to Italian legend Alessandro Del Piero thanks to his speed, technique, passing, dribbling and shooting.
    Ex-Manchester United ace Giuseppe Rossi announced his retirementCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Rossi has been previously compared to Alessandro Del PieroCredit: AFP
    The striker spent three years in United’s books but only managed a mere total of four goals and one assist in 14 appearances.
    The ex-Italy international was sent out on loan to Newcastle and Parma before his departure in 2007 when he joined Villarreal.
    Rossi went on to play for Fiorentina, Levante, Celta Vigo, Genoa, Real Salt Lake and SPAL, where he ended his career.
    Pepito issued a touching farewell message to fans stating his “dreams came true”.
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    Rossi posted on Instagram: “Today I announce my retirement from the beautiful game. It’s been an unforgettable journey!
    “From running around the backyard as a kid with a ball at my feet and having my father as a coach, to playing at the highest level of football possible, in the most beautiful stadiums football can offer and playing with/against the best players and clubs in the world….
    “I’m eternally grateful to have been a part of this game. My dreams came true. My life is fulfilled.
    “All I ever wanted was to be the best player I could be. I dedicated every ounce of me, shedded blood, sweat and tears for this game. I can leave the game peacefully, knowing I did all I can possibly do to achieve my goals.
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    “My journey is unique. A lot of ups but also some downs. Those down moments (mostly injuries) never defined me. My purpose was stronger than any obstacle that was in front of me.
    “I never stopped dreaming when things I couldn’t control got in my way. I love the game so much that I could’ve never given up.
    “That is why I’m writing this with a heavy heart but a big smile on face – I’m proud of what I accomplished!
    “To my family…your sacrifices and endless support gave me the strength and courage to achieve things I thought were unreachable. Thank you.
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    Rossi stated his “dreams came true” during a heartfelt farewell messageCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    “To my clubs…it was an honor being by your side and representing your shirt! I wore it proudly and gave it my all each and every game. Thank you for your trust in me.
    “To my teammates…so many battles on the field together, so many amazing moments shared off the field. Thank you for being important figures during my career that challenged me to be the best player I could be.
    “To the fans…the game wouldn’t be the beautiful game without you. You have all been by my side throughout my 19 year career. We shared some moments that will last a lifetime! Thank you.
    “I will truly miss the game but I know it’s time. On to the next chapter.. #PepitoOut.” More

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    Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag breaks his silence on Mason Greenwood’s future at club as pre-season kicks off WITHOUT him

    ERIK Ten Hag has broken his silence on Mason Greenwood’s future at Manchester United.Greenwood, 21, has not played for the club since he was arrested in January last year.
    Mason Greenwood’s future at United remains unclearCredit: Getty
    Erik ten Hag has broken his silence on the issueCredit: Getty
    He was later charged with attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour, before the charges were dropped in February.
    Man United have been conducting their own investigation into the allegations and he was most recently left out of the club’s pre-season tour to the US.
    But Ten Hag has addressed the situation ahead of United’s friendly with Arsenal on Saturday night, The Star reports.
    He told reporters: “On this, it’s a club decision and of course, I said my opinions but it’s a club decision and we have to accept that.”
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    And asked whether he would like to keep Greenwood at the club, the Dutch manager added: “I can’t say so much about it but I shared my opinion about it, so let’s see what’s going to happen.”
    Greenwood has been linked with a move to Italy, with Serie A side Atalanta rumoured to be among clubs interested in offering him a chance to get back on the pitch.
    But sources close to Atalanta have played down the prospect of a move – with Man United not proactively exploring other loan options, The Athletic reports.
    Greenwood was most recently pictured taking part in a private training session with teammate Anthony Elanga last week.
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    United are expected to make an announcement on the young striker’s future soon, having completed their exhaustive internal probe.
    It is understood Ten Hag and the majority of the first team are willing to give Greenwood another chance, but a loan move abroad appears to be the most likely option.
    United’s women’s team is also reported to have reservations, while sponsors are also concerned about being linked to the £75,000-a-week player.
    Wayne Rooney also spoke out on the issue last week, suggesting Greenwood should leave the club to get his career back on track.
    The DC United manager said: “It leaves Mason Greenwood in a position where he is stuck.
    “So for Mason, it’s a bad position to be in because I’m sure he just wants to play football.
    “But for the club, its image and ensuring they make the right decisions, it’s almost a catch 22.
    “I think the best thing for Mason now is to get out of the club and go and develop somewhere else.”
    Greenwood in action during a training session in May 2021Credit: Getty More

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    David de Gea ‘rejects chance to replace Andre Onana at Inter Milan with ex-Man Utd goalkeeper keen on shock transfer’

    DAVID DE GEA has rejected the chance to replace Andre Onana at Inter Milan.The former Manchester United goalkeeper is instead keen on completing a shock transfer to La Liga.
    David de Gea has rejected an offer to join Inter MilanCredit: Getty
    According to the Daily Record, De Gea has called off talks with Inter over a potential move to Italy.
    Inter are said to have offered De Gea an annual wage worth £4.3million, which the Spaniard has turned down.
    The Serie A giants will now turn to other targets, including Bayern Munich’s Yann Sommer and Ukrainian keeper Anatoliy Trubin.
    As for De Gea, the report adds that he would prefer a move back to his native Spain.
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    De Gea could re-join boyhood club Atletico Madrid, who have reportedly put current stopper Jan Oblak up for sale.
    However, he would again have to settle for earning less than he had been at United.
    Only a move to Saudi Arabia is currently seen as capable of making him the best paid goalkeeper in the world again.
    The 32-year-old made 84 appearances for Atletico before moving to United in 2011.
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    During his 12 years in England, he won eight major trophies, including a league title and the Europa League.
    He has been a free agent since the end of June, following the expiry of his United contract.
    De Gea has since been replaced at Old Trafford by Onana, who has arrived from Inter. More

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    Man Utd ‘have bid for SECOND goalkeeper transfer of the summer REJECTED’ after David de Gea exit on free

    FENERBAHCE star Altay Bayindir has allegedly REJECTED a move to Manchester United.The Red Devils are on the verge of ending their search for a new number one goalkeeper following David De Gea’s departure.
    Fenerbahce goalie Altay Bayindir has allegedly rejected a move to Man UtdCredit: Getty
    Andre Onana, 27, is set to sign for United after a deal worth up to £47.2MILLION was finally sorted with Inter Milan.
    The keeper has already flown in and will put pen to paper on a five-year deal, with the option of a sixth, after undergoing his medical.
    However, that is only one part of Erik ten Hag’s goalkeeping problem resolved.
    United stopper Dean Henderson spent last season on loan at Nottingham Forest after a fall-out with the club.
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    He is being heavily linked with a permanent move to the City Ground after recovering from the thigh surgery that ruled him out for the last few months of the campaign.
    Henderson recently claimed that he “p***ed off the Dutch manager” and believes “he is not in line for a comeback” as he revealed he did not want Ten Hag to see him training as he believed the boss would want to keep him.

    And backup goalie Tom Heaton is also wanted by both Luton Town and Everton.
    That has left Ten Hag searching for another keeper to join his squad with the above two expected to be given the green light to leave should they get adequate cover.
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    Now Posta report have claimed that United were looking to activate the £5.2m release clause in the 25-year-old Bayindir’s contract.
    But the Turkish international has reportedly turned down a potential move to Old Trafford as he has no desire “to play second-fiddle” to Onana.
    And this update states that he is instead set to join Ajax.
    He will become the Dutch side’s new No.1 with their current first-choice goalie Geronimo Rulli expected to be sold. More