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      Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim planning shock transfer swoop for Wolves star Rayan Ait-Nouri

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      WOLVES star Rayan Ait-Nouri is high on the wishlist of new Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim.The Algerian’s contract expires in the summer of 2026 and he is believed to be eyeing a move away from Molineux.Rayan Ait-Nouri is wanted by Man UtdCredit: AlamyRuben Amorim believes he perfectly suits his style of playCredit: GettyThat has put United are on red alert for a player as Amorim has made signing a left-back a priority. He wants to boost his options give Luke Shaw’s injury record. Shaw could also eventually move into the back-three once the former Sporting Lisbon manager fully instils his 3-4-3 system at Old Trafford.Ait-Nouri, an attacking wing-back, ticks all of the boxes for Amorim and the style of the football he likes to play.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 23-year-old has also been linked with a move to Liverpool, but United will be keen to ensure Amorim’s wishes are met.Ait-Nouri is currently on a deal of £33,000-a-week at Wolves and the Red Devils would be able to tempt him with a substantial uplift in his wages.The fan favourite has plenty of Premier League experience under his belt, making more than 100 appearances since joining from French side Angers in 2020. He has found the back of the net eight times and registered a further six assists along the way.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWolves are likely to want to keep the him until the summer amid the threat of relegation.United may have to wait until the end of the season to get their man.Ruben Amorim hints at part of Man Utd job he already hates in tense statement at end of Sky Sports interview Amorim could also go shopping back at Sporting and he is thought to be keen on striker Viktor Gyokeres and midfielder Morten Hjulmand.Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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      Who is Godwill Kukonki? Meet Man Utd’s towering 16-year-old defender who is set to be in Ruben Amorim’s first squad

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      TEEN sensation Godwill Kukonki looks destined for a future in Manchester United’s first-team after Ruben Amorim included him in his first matchday squad.The Portuguese gaffer’s first match in charge of the club sees his troops take on Ipswich Town at Portman Road this afternoon.Ruben Amorim takes charge of his first Manchester United game this afternoonCredit: GETTYThe Portuguese gaffer took charge of his first training session earlier this weekCredit: GETTYAnd he included 16-year-old defender Godwill Kukonki in his match-day squad for today’s clash with IpswichCredit: GETTYKukonki was called up to train with the first team this weekCredit: MANCHESTER UNITEDUnited fans around the world have been wondering what Amorim’s first starting XI will look like.And some have been left gobsmacked by the match day inclusion of teenager Kukonki, despite his recent training with the first team.But who is the teenager that is currently the talk of the Old Trafford faithful?SunSport is on hand to shed some light on the starlet, whom many believe has a bright future at the club.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSHow long has Kukonki been at Manchester United?The 16-year-old defender, who was born in Stoke On Trent, joined United at the tender age of five after being discovered by their scouts.He’s been an ever-present in the club’s youth teams over the years and has stood out as of late due to his incredible stature.Kukonki stands at a whopping 6ft 5in and has shown no signs of slowing down when it comes to his growth.His incredible build has served him well over the years, but it hasn’t been the sole reason for his success.Most read in FootballGodwill Kukonki stands at a whopping 6ft 5in at the tender age of 16Credit: GETTYThe defender has been heralded for his ability on the ballCredit: GETTYHow Kukonki fared so far?The left-sided centre-back has shown defensive prowess well beyond his years during his time at the club.Gary Neville admits ‘I got it wrong’ and apologises over Rashford criticism as Amorim demands Man Utd ‘change standards’ And they have played a major factor in his recent graduation to the club’s Under-18s squad.Kukonki has well and truly risen to the challenge this season, showcasing great ability on and off the ball in addition to his physical qualities.His ability to play out from the back, in particular, has been repeatedly heralded.Kukonki has nine appearances for United’s Under-18s to his name so far this season, in which he’s scored one goal and bagged one assist.And his impressive displays must have been relayed to Amorim, who has made the bold decision to include him in today’s matchday squad.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.What’s Kukonki said?Kukonki, unsurprisingly, has yet to conduct any interviews.He has, however, reflected on his brief United career on his Instagram account – which only includes four posts.Late last month, he shared a series of snaps from his Uefa Youth League debut against Lithuanian ZK Zalgiris.READ MORE SUN STORIESAlong with a praying hands emoji, he wrote #UYL debut.”He’ll no doubt post a similar photo if and when he makes his first-team debut.Godwill Kukonki has been tipped by many to have a bright future at Old TraffordCredit: GETTY More

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      Amorim will BLOCK Man Utd stars from flying on holiday in international break after Neville’s Rashford and Casemiro rant

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      RUBEN AMORIM says he will block Manchester United stars from using international breaks for extra holidays.Red Devils legend Gary Neville laid into Marcus Rashford and Casemiro for jetting off to the US instead of staying behind to meet their new manager.Marcus Rashford copped flak from Gary Neville for travelling to the USA during the international breakCredit: GETTYCasemiro was also criticised by the Red Devils legendCredit: GETTYNew manager Ruben Amorim has vowed to stop players travelling so far during international breaksCredit: GETTYNew United boss Amorim refused to criticise the pair, who were not needed by respective nations England and Brazil.But Erik ten Hag’s Old Trafford replacement made it clear he was unlikely to sanction similar trips in the future.He said: “Would I set a different structure? Yes, for sure. But we cannot put this on the players.“They told them they have five days off so they can fly anywhere. Because nobody in the club says you cannot fly.READ MORE ON MAN UTD“So we cannot, this time, put that on Rash or Case.”Striker Rashford was pictured watching Friday’s NBA clash between the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets at Madison Square Garden.And midfielder Casemiro flew to Florida to enjoy a family holiday at Disney World and an Orlando Magic game.In a Sky Sports interview, Neville apologised to Amorim for initially claiming the pair had travelled even further, to the west coast of America.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut he insisted: “I did get it wrong. “But there’s still a 5-6 hour time difference, they’re on planes, Casemiro’s 30 years of age.”How Ruben Amorim will resurrect Marcus Rashford’s Man United career with subtle position changeAmorim did not disagree. “He said: “Us as a club have to set the standards and have to manage that.“It’s my decision if they can have five days, or three days, or three days to rest and you cannot fly. “This is something that us as a club have to decide.“So this must be started in the club, with us and me being responsible in that area.” More

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      Skin doctor sues Ronaldo over ace’s £40k ‘unpaid’ bill

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      FOOTIE superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is being sued by a cosmetic doctor over an alleged unpaid £40,000 bill.Dr Roshan Ravindran — known as Dr Rosh — claims the former Man United star, 39, owes him for treatments provided when he was at Old Trafford in 2021 and 2022.Dr Roshan Ravindran claims Ronaldo owes him for treatments provided when he was at Old Trafford in 2021 and 2022Credit: GettyThe former cardiologist’s specialisms include botox and fillers, skin care and eyebrow lifting.He names Ronaldo — famous for his “siuuu” goal celebration — in a formal court form. He does not mention the player’s partner Georgina Rodríguez, 30, but the claim says he did work for Ronaldo “and members of his family and entourage” at his Cheshire clinic.When approached for comment, Dr Rosh, who also runs KLNIK branches in Manchester and London, said: “There is an ongoing legal matter and, as a professional, I do not discuss my patients.”Read More on SportA source said: “Dr Rosh is highly respected and is the silent expert behind figures including top politicians, royalty, sports stars and Hollywood icons.“When it comes to procedures like botox and fillers, Dr Rosh is undeniably the number one choice.“His clientele value absolute discretion as well as world-class treatments.”Ace Ronaldo — now playing in Saudi Arabia on £173million a year — was approached for comment.Most read in FootballCristiano Ronaldo is being sued by a cosmetic doctor over an alleged unpaid £40,000 billCredit: EPACristiano Ronaldo breaks young fan’s phone with wayward penalty and sends him collapsing to floor More

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      Man Utd and Man City ready for £65m Viktor Gyokeres transfer scrap as BOTH sides think they have secret weapon

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      RUBEN AMORIM will scrap with old pal Hugo Viana for Sporting Lisbon ace Viktor Gyokeres next year.The striker, 26, became hot property under gaffer Amorim at Sporting and his release clause could see him move for £65million.Viktor Gyokeres has been sensational since joining Sporting LisbonCredit: ReutersRuben Amorim is interested in bringing the striker to Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyManchester United are sure Amorim’s arrival as their boss will secure his signature.But they face a battle with Manchester City and Viana, who will take over as their director of football after he leaves Sporting next summer.Viana oversaw the Sweden star’s bargain signing from Coventry last year.And it proved to be a masterstroke as Gyokeres has since flourished into Europe’s most in-demand striker, with 58 goals for club and country in 2024.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAmorim refused to fuel the speculation at his first United press conference on Friday.But he did admit he hopes Gyokeres stays injury-free and keeps scoring.The new Red Devils boss said: “Viktor Gyokeres is a Sporting player.”He has a game tonight [Friday] and I hope he plays well, doesn’t get injured and continues to be successful at Sporting.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSPep Guardiola will be hoping to bring Gyokeres to Manchester CityCredit: ReutersPortuguese Viana, 41, played a key role in Amorim becoming Sporting boss in 2020.But will want to pip him to the post for Gyokeres at City.SunSport’s Man Utd reporter Neil Custis gives verdict on Ruben Amorim’s first press conference and says ‘he has something different’The release clause rules out a bidding war but sets the scene for an intriguing tug-of-war instead.Man Utd have struggled to score goals so far this season, netting just 12 in 11 Premier League games.Meanwhile, neighbours Man City suffered a fifth successive defeat in all competitions on Saturday as Tottenham thrashed them 4-0 at the Etihad.Erling Haaland has scored 12 goals in all competitions, but the team’s next highest scorers are Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic on three.Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. More

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      Sir Alex Ferguson ‘snapped big time’ at Man Utd legend after misunderstanding as icon admits ‘you could never read him’

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON is well known for his hairdryer treatment of stars.And that furious temper extended to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who explained how a misunderstanding led to a big row between them.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has recalled how a misunderstanding saw him in the firing line of Sir Alex FergusonCredit: GettyHowever, Solskjaer praised Ferguson for imposing his edge on the situationCredit: GettyRecalling the incident in an interview for Bring on United, the super sub explained how an interview he did in the Norwegian press was misinterpreted by an English newspaper.He said: “In December 2000, I was in form and scored in four different league games.”Then we played Newcastle away in the final game of the year. It was one I didn’t score in. We got a penalty and I should have taken it. Becks took it and put it in the top right corner.”I was thinking that I might be player of the month. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I did an interview with the Norwegian press that was translated into some of the British newspapers and spun into headlines that were way worse than what I’d said. “The question to me was: ‘Now that you are a regular…’ and I answered, ‘No, not really, I’ll probably be on the bench soon and I don’t look at myself as a regular.'”The gaffer came to see me and he snapped big time because it was on the back of all the newspapers that I’d said he’d probably leave me out soon. I think he only read the headlines.”Ferguson was not best impressed with Solskjaer’s attitude, leading to the row.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAlthough Solskjaer credits the Scot for setting the standards even in that situation.”He then looked at me as a defeatist who accepted being a sub instead of pushing on and saying that I should play every game.Sir Alex Ferguson ECSTATIC as his horse Spirit Dancer makes history with back-to-back wins in $1million Bahrain race”But, for me, it was a way of saying that I’m loyal to whatever the gaffer does and doing whatever I’m asked to. One of the beauties of the manager was that you could never read him.”Solskjaer spent 11 years at Old Trafford as a player.He then returned as a manager initially on an interim basis before being given the job full-time.The 51-year-old failed to win a trophy but secured back-to-back top-four finishes, something no other manager has done for United since Ferguson.He was sacked in November 2021 and replaced by Ralf Rangnick on an interim basis.Erik ten Hag then took over on a permanent basis, leading the club to the FA Cup and League Cup.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut a poor start in the league this season saw club chiefs pull the plug on his time and replace him with Ruben Amorim.The former Sporting Lisbon boss takes charge of his first game for the Red Devils against Ipswich tomorrow. More

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      Seven Man Utd stars who should be fearing for their future in January as Ruben Amorim already knows who he doesn’t want

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      RUBEN AMORIM will want to stamp his mark on his new Manchester United squad as soon as possible.The former Sporting boss replaced Erik ten Hag and is preparing to take charge of his first match in charge at Ipswich on Sunday.Ruben Amorim will be weighing up which players he will be willing to let go in JanuaryCredit: GettyHe must make do with the current crop of players for the first few weeks of his tenure until the January transfer window opens.However, even then, it is understood he may not have an abundance of cash to splash to bring in his top targets straight away.And that could therefore see Amorim try and raise some funds by selling off some of the United players that fail to impress or fit into his favoured 3-4-3 system.But who is most at risk of facing the chop and could be heading out of the Old Trafford exit door early in 2025?READ MORE ON FOOTBALLJOSHUA ZIRKZEEJoshua Zirkzee may have only joined United in the summer but may already find himself as the third-choice striker under Amorim.The new manager’s preferred style favours the likes of Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund and there are concerns Zirkzee won’t fit the mould. It has been a tough start to life at Old Trafford for the Dutch striker, who has just one goal in his opening 17 appearances and allegedly was not even wanted by former boss Erik ten Hag before his £36.5million arrival. United and Zirkzee may decide this has not worked out and allow the 23-year-old to move elsewhere to continue his career before things turn sour. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSJoshua Zirkzee’s United spell could be over within six monthsCredit: AlamyCHRISTIAN ERIKSENThe Danish midfielder, 32, is out of contract at the end of the season and was linked with leaving last summer. Ten Hag kept Christian Eriksen on but the reality is his game time will be very limited in the Amorim formation and selling the veteran would mean United can get a fee for him.Ruben Amorim gives first Man Utd interview and reveals number one priority to revive fallen giantsChristian Eriksen might be on his way outCredit: AlamyCASEMIROCasemiro’s United career has been turbulent to say the least – but could it be about to fizzle out?The experienced Brazilian, 32, has struggled to have the impact he would have wanted and his impact was waning under Ten Hag.And that could reduce even further if Amorim opts for a midfield duo of Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo. He is under contract until 2026 but is United’s top-paid player on a staggering £375,000 per week – meaning shipping him out to the Middle East would be an ideal solution.Casemiro may find his game time limited in the new Amorim systemCredit: ReutersALEJANDRO GARNACHOThis one could ruffle a few feathers but Alejandro Garnacho, 20, could be on his way of Old Trafford, too.The new 3-4-3 formation will likely see two supporting playmakers in behind the main striker – with wing-backs instead of wingers.And that could spell bad news for the Argentine.He is undoubtedly one of the most exciting talents in the Red Devils squad and fans would hate to see him leave.But a big offer for an unfancied star who could generate a huge profit may be appealing for Amorim and his boardroom bosses.Alejandro Garnacho is one the most valuable men in the Red Devils squadCredit: RexAMAD DIALLOSimilarly, Amad Diallo, 22, could find himself out of favour under Amorim.The winger’s contract is also expiring next summer and if Amorim does not want to use him, he may try and convince the club to sell him in January – rather than offer a new contract or let him go for free.Incredibly, Antony could be handed a lifeline at Old Trafford – with early training sessions hinting he could get a new lease of life as a wing-back. Amad Diallo’s future is up in the airCredit: ReutersHARRY MAGUIREAmorim is keen for a 3-4-3 formation with three centre-backs.The reality is Harry Maguire, 31, can play in a back three and has done so previously – including for England at the World Cup.But the reality is also that he will be behind Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro in the pecking order – plus potentially Luke Shaw if he moves into a left centre-back role.Maguire has been on the cusp of leaving several times and shaving his £190,000 off the weekly wage bill would help the finances. Harry Maguire may be on his way out of the clubCredit: EPAVICTOR LINDELOFOne could be forgiven for forgetting Victor Lindelof, 30, was still on the books at Old Trafford – more than seven years after arriving in 2017.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe will surely not get an extension on his current deal which expires at the end of the season.So trying to flog him in January would present the final chance to get anything for the Swedish defender. Victor Lindelof is way down the pecking order among the centre-backsCredit: Getty More

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      Marcus Rashford takes up new sport to keep in top condition for Man Utd

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      FOOTBALLER Marcus Rashford is fighting fit — after taking up boxing and mixed martial arts.The Manchester United and England striker, 27, has been working out in a boxing gym.Marcus Rashford is taking up martial arts to get in peak conditionCredit: GettyHe has also had sessions with a trainer who specialises in Muay Thai, a form of martial arts favoured by cage fighters.Rashford was left out of the England squad for this month’s Nations League games. Instead, he went to New York and watched a UFC cage fight and basketball game.A source said: “Marcus has really started to get into fighting in recent years. READ MORE MARCUS RASHFORD“He’s always enjoyed watching boxing with his mates but he’s also developed an interest in MMA as the sport has become more popular.“The club know and have no problem with it.“They just think it’s great extra fitness training.”Rashford is hoping to win the favour of new head coach Ruben Amorim, who backed his recent trip to New York.Most read in FootballThe Manchester United forward is looking to impress his new bossCredit: PAHow Ruben Amorim will resurrect Marcus Rashford’s Man United career with subtle position change More