More stories

  • in

    Man Utd verdict: Erik ten Hag now knows his best XI and it’s bad news for Cristiano Ronaldo ahead of Manchester derby

    ERIK TEN HAG now has 17 days to pick his team for the Manchester derby.The Red Devils breezed past Sheriff Tiraspol 2-0 in the Europa League on Thursday night.
    Ten Hag appears to have found his best XI after five wins from six matchesCredit: PA
    With their Premier League clash against Leeds postponed, this was United’s final match before the international break.
    And Ten Hag chose to revert back to the side which beat Arsenal – albeit with Cristiano Ronaldo in for the injured Marcus Rashford.
    And it is a team which seems to be forming a superb understanding… Ronaldo aside.
    David de Gea is a certainty in between the sticks.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez look rock solid at the back, with the latter beginning to show off his brilliant range of passing.
    Diogo Dalot and Tyrell Malacia look equally aggressive defensively and sufficiently creative going forward.
    Scott McTominay is keeping five-time Champions League winner Casemiro out of the team and will be expected to start in the derby despite the ex-Real Madrid man’s experience on the biggest stages of all.
    Christian Eriksen has been United’s standout player in recent weeks, with his effortless range of passing a highlight of the Ten Hag regime so far.
    Most read in Football
    JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)

    Bruno Fernandes remains a little underwhelming, but is offering glimpses of the form he showed during his first 12 months at Old Trafford.
    And Jadon Sancho and Antony are providing the energy, pace and excitement on the flanks that has made United a force in world football over the years.
    The only quandary for the Dutch boss ahead of the Manchester derby is whether or not to bring Rashford back in for Ronaldo.
    The obvious choice, given Ten Hag’s thinking so far, is to do so, assuming teh born-again England ace is fit.
    Ronaldo may have tucked away his first goal of the season from the penalty spot against Sheriff, but he looks well off the pace.
    His inability to stretch the play like Rashford – something Ten Hag seems to depend on – would be forgivable if he was looking his potent best in front of goal, but right now he is not.
    As a result, the side Ten Hag will choose to put out for the trip to the Etihad in two weeks looks set in stone.
    Expected XI vs Man City: De Gea; Dalot, Varane, Martinez, Malacia; McTominay, Eriksen, Fernandes; Antony, Rashford, Sancho.
    It is one which has already impressed in the Premier League and seems to need very little tinkering – if any.
    SunSport exclusively revealed that the Dutch manager is set to receive £70million to spend in the January transfer window.
    But given how his side are currently applying themselves, it is difficult to see where he would want to strengthen.
    Read More on The Sun
    He made five changes before the defeat to Real Sociedad – a stark warning that moving things around can create instability.
    Expect him to revert to type for the trip to the Etihad – with Ronaldo, Casemiro and Co benched once more. More

  • in

    Man Utd star Anthony Martial claims he played while injured for nearly TWO SEASONS as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ‘needed me’

    MANCHESTER UNITED ace Anthony Martial revealed he had been playing injured for two seasons because former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer “needed” him.Martial opened up about his struggles of getting back to full fitness after the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, which led to him falling out with Solskjaer.
    Manchester United ace Anthony Martial revealed he played injured for two seasonsCredit: Getty
    Anthony Martial claims he continued playing because ex-Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer needed himCredit: Getty
    The forward was ultimately shipped out on loan to Sevilla during the second half of last season where he also couldn’t manage to stand out.
    But the France international has returned to United and impressed in pre-season under new manager Erik ten Hag before suffering another injury setback.
    The 26-year-old, who is now recovering from an Achilles issue, claims fans had been judging his performances without knowing the full story.
    The Frenchman also suggested that Solskjaer “never bothered” to support him in public.
    Read More on Man Utd
    Martial told France Football: “People judge without knowing [the facts].
    “In the last two seasons, I’ve regularly played while injured. People don’t know it, but I couldn’t accelerate during the four months that followed the Covid-19 season.
    “But the manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he needed me, so I played. But given my playing style, if I can’t accelerate, then it does becomes very difficult.
    “And I was criticised… The coach never bothered to say it to the media. Of course, I ended up actually getting injured and then when I returned it was over, I wasn’t playing anymore.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    “I took it very badly, I felt a sense of injustice – you get asked to sacrifice yourself for the team and then you get cast aside.
    “This is part of the kind of things that have tainted my passion for football. For me, it’s almost treachery, it’s everything I hate.
    “There are things to criticise about me, but not that I’m fake. It was also easy – I’m young, quiet, cost a lot of money, I’m the perfect fall guy.
    “I don’t speak out, so it’s even easier. But weirdly enough nobody ever came to tell me that.” More

  • in

    Man Utd team news LEAKED by Portugal manager as he confirms Cristiano Ronaldo will start against FC Sheriff

    CRISTIANO RONALDO “will start” for Manchester United tonight – according to his Portugal manager.The 37-year-old forward has found himself relegated to the bench under Erik ten Hag for the majority of their Premier League campaign.
    Portugal’s manager has claimed Cristiano Ronaldo will start for Man Utd tonightCredit: Getty
    Fernando Santos revealed the Man Utd team news regarding the forward this afternoonCredit: AFP
    He was handed a start in last week’s Europa League opener against Real Sociedad, but he was unable to stop his side from slipping to a 1-0 defeat.
    But Fernando Santos, who named him in his latest Portugal squad this afternoon, has revealed that his star man will be playing for United today in their Europa League game at Moldovan outfit Sheriff Tiraspol.
    He made the claim as he insisted that he had no concerns over Ronaldo’s fitness regarding his lack of match action.
    Santos said: “I have no worries, he will play later, he will start against the Sheriff.”
    READ MORE MAN UTD
    He added: “With him as with all the others, I try to understand what situation they find themselves in.
    “I don’t think anyone doubts that Cristiano Ronaldo continues to be important for the selection.”
    After failing to secure a move away from Old Trafford over the summer, Ronaldo returned late to pre-season training.
    That led to him being benched for the opening day defeat to Brighton.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
    He returned to the starting XI the following week, but he and his teammates were left humiliated as they were thrashed 4-0 at Brentford.
    The veteran was then pushed back to the bench, and that coincided with United going on a four-game winning run in the top-flight although he did get his opportunity last Thursday against Sociedad.
    Now it seems he will get another chance to get off the mark for the season later on.
    Meanwhile, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner will be involved for Portugal in their Nations League clashes against Czech Republic and Spain later this month.
    He has 117 goals in his 189 caps for his country and will be desperate to return to top form as he prepares to lead his country to the World Cup in November – which will be his tenth international tournament. More

  • in

    Man Utd to hand Erik ten Hag £70m January transfer warchest which will increase to £100m-plus if Cristiano Ronaldo quits

    ERIK TEN HAG will be given at least a £70million transfer warchest to spend in January – but it could be even more if Cristiano Ronaldo goes.The Manchester United boss forked out more than £215m over the summer, bringing in Brazilian star Antony in a mega £85m move from Ajax.
    Erik ten Hag’s transfer budget will be increased in Cristiano Ronaldo goesCredit: Getty
    He also splashed out nearly £70m on Casemiro from Real Madrid and raided his old Dutch club for Lisandro Martinez in a £50m-plus swoop.
    And SunSport understands he will be backed again when the window opens if he wants to improve his squad again.
    The Red Devils chief will be handed around £70m following the end of the World Cup in Qatar this winter.
    This will be increased to more than £100m if Ronaldo finally quits Old Trafford and his £450,000-a-week wages are off the books.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    The Portuguese superstar is still looking to leave the club and wants to return to the Champions League if he can.
    United were demanding at least £20m for the 37-year-old in the summer, but he couldn’t find a suitor.
    Ten Hag missed out on a number of long-term targets over the summer, most notably Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona.
    The Dutch midfielder is still high on his wishlist, and a move in January hasn’t been ruled out with the Spanish giants’ finances still an issue.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    It is understood the United boss has already held initial talks over future transfer plans and will be backed by owners, the Glazers.
    He could be handed even more if the right player comes up for a cheap price that will improve the squad.
    Ten Hag believes he needs at least another three first-team players before the club are ready to compete at the top level again.

    Read More on The Sun
    The Dutchman is adamant he can get them back to their trophy-laden glory years and compete with rivals Manchester City and Liverpool.
    United will also be sending scouts to the World Cup to keep an eye on targets and their own players at the tournament. More

  • in

    Man Utd want Jan Oblak transfer as Erik ten Hag targets Atletico Madrid keeper to replace David de Gea as new No1

    MANCHESTER UNITED are targeting a move for Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak, according to reports.Erik ten Hag is said to be on the lookout for a new No1 between the sticks.
    Manchester United are reportedly keen on Atletico Madrid star Jan OblakCredit: Reuters
    Current first choice David de Gea is out of contract at the end of the season, although there is an option for a further 12 months.
    But, Jeunes Footeux say since taking over the reigns at United, Ten Hag has not been “convinced” by the Spaniard.
    The Dutchman is already reported to be looking ahead to next season and is on the hunt for a top-level goalie.
    And he is claimed to be eyeing a swoop for Oblak.
    Read More Man Utd News
    Oblak himself is out of contract at Atletico Madrid at the end of the current campaign.
    The 29-year-old could be available for a cut-price fee in January or on a free in the summer if he doesn’t sign a new deal.
    Slovenian goalkeeper Oblak is widely regarded as one of the best stopper’s in world football.
    It’s claimed the Red Devils are even prepared to double Oblak’s wages to £300k-a-week in order to lure him to Old Trafford.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Although that wouldn’t even be enough to get into the top five earners at United.
    But the Red Devils aren’t the only team in the hunt for Oblak’s signature.
    Paris Saint-Germain are also reported to be interested, with the French club not 100 per cent convinced by Italian international Gianluigi Donnarumma.
    The Red Devils are also reportedly set to battle it out with Liverpool for teenage sensation Jude Bellingham.
    The two bitter rivals are poised to go head-to-head to try and snap up the England star next summer. More

  • in

    Man Utd and Liverpool transfer blow as Gavi signs new Barcelona contract with staggering one BILLION Euros buyout clause

    MANCHESTER UNITED and Liverpool have been dealt a transfer blow after Barcelona wonderkid Gavi signed a new long-term contract.The midfielder, 18, has impressed since breaking into the team last season and is now a key player for Xavi, starting five out of five LaLiga games this term.
    Gavi’s new contract has a release clause worth €1billionCredit: Getty
    United and Liverpool had been tracking the youngster for some time and they were keen to take advantage of his £42million release clause.
    But both clubs have missed that chance after Gavi put pen to paper on a four-year deal.
    The new contract also increases Gavi’s buyout clause to €1billion (£864m) – the joint-highest in world football.
    Chelsea also had an eye on the Spaniard when Roman Abramovich was still in charge – as the former owner was a big fan of Gavi.

    Manchester City also wanted Gavi earlier in the summer but will likely end their interest given his new release clause.
    Barcelona have been keen to give their stars eye-watering buyout clauses after losing Neymar to Paris Saint-Germain after the French side activated his £200m clause in 2017.
    In fact, four Barca players now have a release clause of €1bn, matched only by Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema.
    Gavi is very highly rated by club and country with Xavi describing him as a “transcendent” player.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON HORSE RACING
    Spain manager Luis Enrique said of Xavi: “He’s like an erupting volcano.
    “It’s very difficult not to fall in love with Gavi. Any fan wants to see him play.” More

  • in

    Man Utd release 25-man squad for Premier League with Phil Jones snubbed for entire season

    MANCHESTER UNITED have left Phil Jones out of their 25-man Premier League squad for the 2022/23 season.The Red Devils confirmed their roster for the current campaign on Wednesday.
    Man Utd have announced their 25-man squad for the Premier League seasonCredit: EPA
    Jones has not been included in Man Utd’s Premier League squadCredit: AFP
    And ex-England international Jones has been omitted from the squad – meaning he will not be eligible to play in the Prem all season.
    Here is the squad in full:
    GoalkeepersNathan BishopDavid De GeaMartin DubravkaTom HeatonDefendersDiogo DalotVictor LindelofHarry MaguireTyrell MalaciaLisandro MartinezLuke ShawAxel TuanzebeRaphael VaraneAaron Wan-BissakaBrandon Williams
    MidfieldersCasemiroChristian EriksenBruno FernandesFredScott McTominayDonny van de Beek
    ForwardsAntonyAnthony MartialMarcus RashfordCristiano RonaldoJadon Sancho
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    The squad also includes a host of Under 21 players who are eligible to feature for the first team.
    They include Anthony Elanga, Amad Diallo, Alejandro Garnacho, Hannibal, Charlie Savage and Teden Mengi.
    All of Man Utd’s six new signings are included within the 25-person squad – Martin Dubravka, Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Antony.
    And Erik ten Hag appears to have figured out his best team after a difficult start to the season.
    Most read in Football
    HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
    The Dutchman dropped Harry Maguire and Cristiano Ronaldo following defeats to Brighton and Brentford.
    And since then they have won four Prem matches in a row against Liverpool, Southampton, Leicester and Arsenal.

    Next up for Ten Hag’s side is a trip to Sheriff in the Europa League on Thursday night.
    But their Premier League clash with Leeds on Sunday has already been postponed following The Queen’s death. More

  • in

    Man Utd fly out for Sheriff clash in Europa League but NO Marcus Rashford, Donny van de Beek and Aaron Wan-Bissaka

    MANCHESTER UNITED are making their way to Moldova ahead of their Europa League group stage clash with FC Sheriff.The Red Devils lost their opening group game 1-0 to Real Sociedad at Old Trafford.
    Ten Hag’s men are heading to Moldova to play Sheriff in the Europa LeagueCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    Bruno Fernandes, coffee in hand, is in high spirits ahead of Thursday’s gameCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    Summer signing Tyrell Malacia making his way onto the bus, followed by Anthony Elanga, Raphael Varane and Jadon SanchoCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    United lost their opening Europa League group game 1-0 to Real SociedadCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    Fred stepped onto the bus in Nike Jordan’s and full Man Utd gearCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    But the European affair wasn’t free of controversy with summer signing Lisandro Martinez being cruelly penalised for “handball”.
    The Argentine was punished and a spot-kick was awarded to Real Sociedad despite the all striking his knee followed by his elbow.
    The ball was tucked away and the Spaniards left Old Trafford with three valuable points.
    Moldovan side Sheriff will not be an easy task.
    READ MORE ON MAN UTD
    They beat Real Madrid in the Champions League group stages last season at the Bernabeu.
    Sheriff ran out 2-1 winners but were thumped 3-0 in the return fixture.
    Man Utd will have to get past Sheriff without three first-team stars.
    Marcus Rashford, Donny van de Beek and Aaron Wan-Bissaka were absent from training on Wednesday morning and are NOT part of Erik ten Hag’s travelling squad, according to BBC’s Simon Stone.
    Most read in Football
    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    Thursday’s European game is sandwiched between two postponed Premier League fixtures.
    United’s away game against Crystal Palace, which was meant to take place last weekend, was postponed out of respect for Queen Elizabeth II, who sadly passed away last Thursday aged 96.
    And Old Trafford won’t be filled to the rafters this weekend either when United were supposed to welcome rivals Leeds.

    That game has also been postponed as Greater Manchester Police are deploying their officers at locations and events of “high significance”, with The Queen’s funeral taking place on Monday, September 19.
    United are “supportive of the decision” as the “safety and security of our fans is paramount”.
    Ten Hag’s next league game in charge will come on October 2 after the international break, where they will travel to Prem champions Manchester City.
    Lisandro Martinez was harshly penalised for handball against Real SociedadCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    Jadon Sancho’s good form could earn him an England recallCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    Antony scored on his Premier League debut for United but not in the Europa LeagueCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    Youngsters Charlie McNeill, Zidane Iqbal and Radek Vitek also travelledCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
    Christian Eriksen has impressed early on in his Man Utd careerCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke More