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      Watch Manuel Ugarte in awkward moment with Erik ten Hag after Man Utd manager tries to hype up new transfer

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      MANUEL UGARTE was involved in an awkward interaction with new boss Erik ten Hag.Ugarte, 23, was announced as a Manchester United player on transfer deadline day and revealed to fans at Old Trafford on Sunday.Manuel Ugarte and Erik ten Hag had an awkward exchange at CarringtonCredit: XFans said they struggled to watch the videoCredit: XUgarte signed for Man Utd from PSG for £51mCredit: GettyAfter arriving at the club’s Carrington training base, Ugarte and Ten Hag were filmed heading indoors. However, before they got inside the Dutch coach could be heard speaking to his new defensive midfielder. An in apparent effort to hype up Ugarte in front of the cameras, he said: “This guy brings us the fight!” But Ugarte wasn’t clear who the former Ajax manager was referring to and confusingly answered: “Who?”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTen Hag, 54, then responded: “You”After the crossed wires were cleared up, Ugarte said: “It’s normal for me, [to] fight!”Fans were stunned at the interaction, with one user writing on social media: “Tough watch that.”A second said: “Fight?? Did we sign Conor Mcgregor or a football player?”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA third added: “Ugarte didn’t even know who’s Erik ten Hag talking about.”Another said: “That’s awkward…”Erik ten Hag warns Manuel Ugarte could take MONTHS to get fit in further blow to Man Utd fans after Liverpool hammeringThe former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder signed for United in a deal that could reach £51million.And it is hoped he can help to plug holes in midfield where his peers have struggled.Ugarte’s numbers paint a promising picture in that regard.His defensive stats including tackling and interceptions are better than United’s current defensive midfielder, Casemiro.The Brazilian had a howler of a game when Liverpool visited Old Trafford, though he was not helped by the structural flaws in the Red Devils’ gameplan.The 32-year-old gave the ball away for Liverpool’s opener before he was too easily dispossessed for their second moments later.READ MORE SUN STORIESKobbie Mainoo was then caught out in the second half for the final nail in the coffin of the 3-0 defeat.United travel to Southampton away after the international break in the hope that they can get back to winning ways.Manuel Ugarte the next Roy KeaneBy PHIL THOMASNEARLY two decades have passed since Roy Keane led Manchester United into battle for the final time.It left a gap in the engine room that the Red Devils have never really come close to filling in the 19 years that have followed.Many tried and some managed it in flashes and, although the trophies still rolled in for a time, there was no snarling, bring-it-on warrior prowling the midfield.Until now… until the imminent capture of a man who views a 50-50 challenge like a starving Labrador staring at a side of ham.For three months, United have licked their own lips at the prospect of a midfield marshalled by Uruguayan tough guy Manuel Ugarte.Finally, they have their man.Ugarte is pretty much a ball-winner pure and simple.Rarely will you see him pinging 40-yard passes to split a defence.But ending his days with half the reputation of Keane and a fraction of his silverware would still mean a hell of a career. More

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      Manuel Ugarte is a midfield bruiser… but Man Utd star is NOT immune to making same mistakes as Casemiro vs Liverpool

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      MANCHESTER UNITED appeared to make a turning point this summer with how they will recruit and build their squad.For the first time since the days of Sir Alex Ferguson and David Gill, it appeared there was a long-term plan.Manuel Ugarte has the ability to be a top player for Man Utd if used properlyCredit: GettyHe is a tough tackling midfielder who will add security to the Red Devils’ midfieldCredit: AFPBut he can sometimes be a bit of a liability on the ballCredit: GettyAnd he could suffer the same fate as Casemiro did against Liverpool if not supportedCredit: PAAfter taking sporting control of the Red Devils, Ineos identified younger players in key areas for, generally, decent fees.This saw them strengthen the defence with the signings of Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro – a wise move given how much they relied on veteran Jonny Evans, 36, at times last season.They also added versatile star Noussair Mazraoui at full-back, while Dutchman Joshua Zirkzee brings some much needed link play to the front line.It is their last deal of the summer, however, which could prove to be the most important, in the form of 23-year-old Uruguay star Manuel Ugarte.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe former Paris Saint-Germain defensive midfielder signed in a deal which could cost £51million, and is a positive and proactive step.However, while Ugarte is superb off the ball, he does have weaknesses.Reading of the gameOne of the most prominent aspects of Ugarte’s game is his ability to play at the base of a midfield, to read the game and react quickly to threats.He does not need to be constantly involved in possession, nor does he want to get the ball and break lines with forward passes.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSInstead, he likes to hold a deeper position, where he can react to the threat of quick opposition counterattacks.This is an area of the midfield in which United were severely lacking last season.Here Ugarte shields his defence as the opposition attacker looks to carry the ball into spaceErik ten Hag warns Manuel Ugarte could take MONTHS to get fit in further blow to Man Utd fans after Liverpool hammeringThe likes of Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes are more than capable of attacking, meaning United needed to add a more defensive-minded player.United struggled badly with defending these spaces in midfield last season – they were often too high and too easy for the opposition to play through and bypass.Ugarte will allow United to be more secure in front of their back line – something they need after being horribly exposed in their 3-0 defeat by Liverpool.His presence at the base of the midfield will also allow United’s full-backs to bomb on.This time Ugarte is in a more settled defensive block and is able to read and react where necessary to win possessionUgarte has the mobility and ability to cover back or across the pitch to prevent the opposition from playing into an attacking space.The addition of Ugarte to the base of the United midfield will make them stronger and more difficult to break down.Is his aggression an issue?Aggression in footballers can often be seen only as a negative thing, but a certain level is needed at the top level.The issue comes when players cannot channel this intensity effectively and end up tearing around the pitch trying to win the ball back.That desire needs to be balanced with tactical discipline.Ugarte still needs to find that balance and his aggressive nature led to PSG sidelining him last season.Here Ugarte is too eager to break out and hunt down the ball on his ownMidfield players who can chase and win the ball can, of course, be a positive, as long as they have team-mates around them who can bring balance. One part of Ugarte’s game that needs further development is understanding when to go, and when to stay put.Yet with United’s new central defenders they should be more comfortable in a higher line and this will limit the space between the defence, midfield and attack.This structure and shape would free Ugarte to jump and press more aggressively.This time Ugarte charges to press the first forward pass into the midfield, but leaves the defence exposed behind himBut for now he still provides risk as well as security because teams can look to bait him into pressing high before playing quickly into the space he leaves behind.United boss Erik ten Hag will need to create a structure and set of pressing rules to bring the best out of Ugarte.Is his passing a problem?Ugarte is not a midfielder in the mould of Rodri, for instance.He is not a top-level passer of the ball and often his distribution can be fairly obvious and easy to defend against.He does, however, keep the ball fairly well, with stats showing last season he had a passing accuracy of 91.6 per cent compared to Casemiro’s 82.6 per cent.He has played at international level and for some of the biggest teams in the world, after all.In possession for PSG Ugarte could be too obviousIndeed, as long as he is allowed to receive the ball and play short and safe then there should be no issues. The issues he had at PSG – and that he is likely to have at United – are that teams will recognise his lack of passing ability and let him have the ball.This is designed to force him to be more expressive on the ball, which can prompt errors, especially in tighter areas.This is part of the reason he struggled at times with PSG under Luis Enrique. Here Ugarte tries a more ambitious crossfield pass but poor execution sees him lose possessionUnited are less focused on possession so his lack of ability on the ball should not be as much of a problem.The Red Devils will not exactly hide Ugarte in possession, although they will need to try to limit his involvement.ConclusionUgarte has a very specific profile and one that United need in midfield.He will stop them from being so open out of possession and he can win back the ball effectively.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere are, however, issues that United fans will have to be aware of.As long as Ten Hag uses the Uruguayan international properly though he should prove to be a good signing. More

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      Casemiro to snub Galatasaray and fight for Man Utd place despite being humiliatingly hauled off in Liverpool horror show

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      CASEMIRO is determined to stay and fight for his place at Manchester United — despite hitting a new low on Sunday.The veteran midfielder, 32, is a target for Turkish giants Galatasaray.Casemiro is ready to fight for his place at Manchester UnitedHe faces fresh competition after Manuel Ugarte arrived from PSG on deadline dayThey would offer an initial loan deal – although his £375,000-per- week wages could prove a stumbling block.Galatasaray know the former Real Madrid superstar is facing a battle for his place under Erik ten Hag after a horror show against Liverpool on Sunday.He was at fault for the visitors’ first two goals and was replaced by youngster Toby Collyer, 20, at half-time to complete his embarrassment.And he will now have United’s new £50.8million signing from PSG Manuel Ugarte in his way when the Prem returns next weekend.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSHowever Casemiro’s camp say he is not expecting to leave United any time soon and is fully focused on getting his season back on track.Even so, Galatasaray are monitoring his situation and have time to weigh up their options before firming up any interest – as their window does not close until next Friday.The lines of communication between United and Galatasaray are open – as the Turkish giants made enquiries for both Scott McTominay and Aaron Wan Bissaka.Both ended up moving elsewhere but the Super Lig side are weighing up another approach as they look to add more experience to their midfield.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSunSport revealed last month that Casemiro – who was left out of the starting line-up for the FA Cup final in May – had won over Ten Hag with his pre-season form.The manager also publicly backed him after his performance in the defeat to Liverpool and tipped him to come good.Man Utd Player Ratings Casemiro’s Nightmare Against LiverpoolUnited captain Bruno Fernandes told the squad everyone had to take responsibility for a performance which many pundits think could spell the beginning of the end for Ten Hag.A source said: “Nobody was pointing the finger at Casemiro after the game.”If anything the opposite was true and the mood among the dressing room was that everybody had to improve and do better.”Casemiro’s wife came to her husband’s defence, reminding people of the many trophies he has won throughout his illustrious career.Anna Mariana posted a picture of his collection of silverware on Instagram, with the Brazilian having won the Champions League five times as well as La Liga three times with Real Madrid and, most recently, the FA Cup with United.She then posted a picture of her husband celebrating with team-mates writing: “Always strong Casemiro, the biggest ❤.”Meanwhile, Liverpool legend Graeme Souness, who was critical of Casemiro last season, said Kobbie Mainoo is not ready to start every game.Man Utd player ratings vs LiverpoolMANCHESTER UNITED had a horror show against Liverpool as they lost 3-0.Casemiro was so bad he was taken off at half-time.But were there any positive performances at Old Trafford?Andre Onana – 5Nothing he could do about any of Liverpool’s goals and made a few saves to prevent the scoreline from getting worse.Noussair Mazraoui – 5Came close to scoring in the first half and looked solid enough against Diaz although he did push up too high before Liverpool’s opener.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Left Diaz and Domink Szobozslai in acres of space for the opening goal but was left in a tricky spot thanks to Casemiro’s error. Booked for a shocking late tackle on Diaz.Lisandro Martinez – 3Lost Diaz for the second goal which meant the Colombian was able to score unmarked from the penalty spot.Also guilty of giving away the ball too easily and was not tight enough with his marking.Diogo Dalot – 4Was caught out pushing up too quickly for the first goal and did not do enough to stop Mo Salah’s cross in the build-up to Liverpool’s second.Looked dangerous in attack at times but too infrequently as he had plenty of defensive work to do since Rashford did not track Trent Alexander-Arnold.Casemiro – 2A horror show in the first half as he gave the ball away in the lead up to both of Liverpool’s goals.He was caught on the ball for the second after a shocking misplaced pass left his defence vulnerable for the opening goal. Hooked at half-time.Kobbie Mainoo – 4Fell victim to the Casemiro curse as he was shrugged off the ball in a terrible position, allowing Liverpool to add a third with ease.Bruno Fernandes – 5Was United’s most creative spark but that is not saying much. Tried to get his side going in the first half but looked short of ideas and inspiration after the break.Alejandro Garnacho – 4Still appears to be a little rusty and is yet to hit the heights he reached last season.Marcus Rashford – 3Nothing came off for the out-of-sorts forward who must be running out of chances before he is dropped.Joshua Zirkzee – 4Quiet up-front and had little influence on the wing as well, but missed a clear-cut chance with his head and should have turned in Rashford’s cross which he met at the far post.SubsToby Collyer (for Casemiro, HT) – 5A difficult game for the youngster to make his Premier League debut but he put himself about and won a few tackles.Harry Maguire (for De Ligt, 69mins) – 5Shored things up at the back as Liverpool took their foot off the pedal.Amad (for Garnacho, 69mins) – 5Provided a spark on the right and looked more lively than Garnacho.Christian Eriksen (for Zirkzee, 86mins) – N/ANot on long enough to make an impact.Souness told talkSPORT: “If anyone shows anything at United, they’re put into superstardom category, way before they’ve even become a good player.”And Mainoo right now should be a player that’s flitting in and out of a good team – not coming in and being asked to stand up and play against the very best teams.”The England youngster, 19, was easily pushed off the ball for Liverpool’s third and Mo Salah’s eighth goal at Old Trafford in seven appearances.However new owners INEOS have been looking to slash the wage bill since they moved in at United earlier this year.And the prospect of getting one of the top earners Casemiro – who turns 33 in February and might find games hard to come by in the coming months – off the books would be tempting.United signed Casemiro for £60 million two years ago and he is under contract until summer 2026.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe former Real Madrid star was axed from the Brazil squad ahead of the Copa America in the summer and was not recalled for this month’s games.United sources say they are expecting him to be back at Carrington next week to prepare for the trip to Southampton on Saturday week.Manuel Ugarte the next Roy KeaneBy PHIL THOMASNEARLY two decades have passed since Roy Keane led Manchester United into battle for the final time.It left a gap in the engine room that the Red Devils have never really come close to filling in the 19 years that have followed.Many tried and some managed it in flashes and, although the trophies still rolled in for a time, there was no snarling, bring-it-on warrior prowling the midfield.Until now… until the imminent capture of a man who views a 50-50 challenge like a starving Labrador staring at a side of ham.For three months, United have licked their own lips at the prospect of a midfield marshalled by Uruguayan tough guy Manuel Ugarte.Finally, they have their man.Ugarte is pretty much a ball-winner pure and simple.Rarely will you see him pinging 40-yard passes to split a defence.But ending his days with half the reputation of Keane and a fraction of his silverware would still mean a hell of a career. More

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      Football analyst bizarrely blames ref Anthony Taylor for ‘hindering Man Utd’s play’ in humiliating loss to Liverpool

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      REFEREE Anthony Taylor has been partly blamed for Manchester United’s 3-0 defeat against Liverpool on Sunday.American analysts pointed to Taylor’s positioning and argued that the PGMOL official blocked United from playing their best football.CBS Sports Golazo pointed to Anthony Taylor’s positioningFirst, when Bruno Fernandes couldn’t make his ideal passAnd pointed to the ref again for Liverpool’s second goal of the first halfCasemiro, 32, was at fault for Liverpool’s two opening goals as he twice gave possession away cheaply inside United’s half that led to Luis Diaz scoring a brace inside 42 minutes.A dismal second-half saw United carved open by Liverpool for Mo Salah’s strike, as fans booed a match that echoed last season’s struggles.But CBS Sports Golazo has since offered a fascinating insight into how and why Liverpool’s first two goals came about.American presenters Ian Joy and Michael Lahoud cheekily pinned some of the blame on referee Taylor’s positioning.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe Wythenshawe-born official was seen getting in the way of United’s transitional play on both occasions.Footage has now showed that Bruno Fernandes was potentially limited from making key passes in decisive moments due to the space occupied by Taylor.First, the analysts argued that Taylor blocked Fernandes from unleashing a quick breakaway ball through to Alejandro Garnacho.The Portugal star was forced to pass back to Casemiro, who offloaded a horror pass that was intercepted by Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch, and put in the back of the net by Diaz.Most read in FootballFernandes struggled to exert his usual creative influence on proceedings against LiverpoolFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThen the pundits explain how the 45-year-old’s positioning stopped Casemiro from playing a forward pass to Joshua Zirkzee for the Colombian’s second.Again, the defensive midfielder conceded possession and Liverpool doubled their lead moments later.’Man Utd have wrong bald Dutch manager’ – how Slot schooled Ten Hag at Old TraffordBut the Brazilian ace lost possession 13 times before being substituted for teenager Toby Collyer at the break.United are now talking about offloading Casemiro to Galatasaray on loan, according to journalist Ali Naci Kucuk.The CBS analysis has gone viral, with Premier League fans split on its authenticity.One fan wrote on X: “I didn’t realise this at all! Fantastic analysis. But it doesn’t make the loss any less embarrassing.”One post rejecting the claim, stated: “The ref can have his share blame for this but I don’t think it’s due to him that we lost the game.”Another added: “Let’s not blame referee there! It was individual mistakes and Erik ten Hag’s substitutions that cost us the three points.”READ MORE SUN STORIESA fourth said: “It’s part of football and no one forced Casemiro into making such an awful pass for the first goal.”While a fifth chimed in: “Come on. United were bad across the board.”Man Utd player ratings vs LiverpoolMANCHESTER UNITED had a horror show against Liverpool as they lost 3-0.Casemiro was so bad he was taken off at half-time.But were there any positive performances at Old Trafford?Andre Onana – 5Nothing he could do about any of Liverpool’s goals and made a few saves to prevent the scoreline from getting worse.Noussair Mazraoui – 5Came close to scoring in the first half and looked solid enough against Diaz although he did push up too high before Liverpool’s opener.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Left Diaz and Domink Szobozslai in acres of space for the opening goal but was left in a tricky spot thanks to Casemiro’s error. Booked for a shocking late tackle on Diaz.Lisandro Martinez – 3Lost Diaz for the second goal which meant the Colombian was able to score unmarked from the penalty spot.Also guilty of giving away the ball too easily and was not tight enough with his marking.Diogo Dalot – 4Was caught out pushing up too quickly for the first goal and did not do enough to stop Mo Salah’s cross in the build-up to Liverpool’s second.Looked dangerous in attack at times but too infrequently as he had plenty of defensive work to do since Rashford did not track Trent Alexander-Arnold.Casemiro – 2A horror show in the first half as he gave the ball away in the lead up to both of Liverpool’s goals.He was caught on the ball for the second after a shocking misplaced pass left his defence vulnerable for the opening goal. Hooked at half-time.Kobbie Mainoo – 4Fell victim to the Casemiro curse as he was shrugged off the ball in a terrible position, allowing Liverpool to add a third with ease.Bruno Fernandes – 5Was United’s most creative spark but that is not saying much. Tried to get his side going in the first half but looked short of ideas and inspiration after the break.Alejandro Garnacho – 4Still appears to be a little rusty and is yet to hit the heights he reached last season.Marcus Rashford – 3Nothing came off for the out-of-sorts forward who must be running out of chances before he is dropped.Joshua Zirkzee – 4Quiet up-front and had little influence on the wing as well, but missed a clear-cut chance with his head and should have turned in Rashford’s cross which he met at the far post.SubsToby Collyer (for Casemiro, HT) – 5A difficult game for the youngster to make his Premier League debut but he put himself about and won a few tackles.Harry Maguire (for De Ligt, 69mins) – 5Shored things up at the back as Liverpool took their foot off the pedal.Amad (for Garnacho, 69mins) – 5Provided a spark on the right and looked more lively than Garnacho.Christian Eriksen (for Zirkzee, 86mins) – N/ANot on long enough to make an impact. More

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      Man Utd flop Jadon Sancho makes bizarre claim about Enzo Maresca being reason he joined Chelsea but it doesn’t add up

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      JADON SANCHO has revealed Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca was a key factor in his decision to move to Stamford Bridge — but does his story check out?Sancho, 24, is seeking to reignite his career by ending his Manchester United hell after completing a season-long loan to rivals Chelsea.Jadon Sancho said Enzo Maresca was a key factor in his decision to move to ChelseaThe 24-year-old said he knew him from Maresca’s time with Pep GuardiolaSancho enjoyed his first Chelsea sessions this week during the international breakAnd the Blues have an obligation to make the move permanent for between £20-25m next summer if certain criteria are met.Sancho told Chelsea’s official website: “I think it’s the manager who really drew me to the project.”I knew him from his time with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. “He spoke to me on the phone about this project and what he was building here, and for a young player like myself it’s exciting and I can’t wait to get started.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever Sancho left Man City’s academy in 2017, long before Maresca was even in the picture.Maresca first joined the Citizens to lead their Elite Development Squad team to Premier League 2 glory in 2020/21.Before returning to work as one of Guardiola’s assistants in the treble-winning campaign of 2022/23.All of which doesn’t exactly align with Sancho saying he knew him from the manager’s time with Guardiola.Most read in FootballMaresca joined Man City three years after Sancho’s exitFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThat’s not to say that the two have never met, but Sancho’s claim about working together at City has raised eyebrows and questions.Whatever the truth behind his statement, Sancho seems to have a good grasp of what is required under the Italian tactician.Jadon Sancho compared to Brazil football legend by excited Chelsea fans as ex-Man Utd star has first training session, ChelseaFC.mp4The fifth different Chelsea boss since Todd Boehly’s reign started in 2021, let Raheem Sterling join Arsenal on loan after stating that he “prefers a different kind of winger”.Sancho revealed that Maresca’s deadline day phone call persuaded him to join Chelsea.The former Dortmund wideman added: “They’re signing me for a reason and to contribute to the team, and I’m ready to do that.”I enjoy his style of play. The wingers when they get on the ball, he loves them to go one versus one and be direct. “We play a lot of one-twos with the 10s and the striker, combination plays. It’s very attractive and it’s a style that I play.”Sancho will face stiff competition for minutes, battling with the likes of Pedro Neto, Christopher Nkunku, Joao Felix, Mykhailo Mudryk, Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke for places in Maresca’s starting lineup.But he left Chelsea fans convinced they have their own Ronaldinho after clips emerged from his first training session on Wednesday. More

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      Man Utd flop Antony ‘to be offered remarkable escape route out of Old Trafford in days by former Red Devils manager’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED flop Antony could be offered the chance to join Jose Mourinho at Fenerbahce, according to reports.The Brazilian winger, 24, has endured a nightmare two years at Old Trafford since arriving from Ajax for £85.5million.Antony could be set for a loan move in the coming daysCredit: RexJose Mourinho is reportedly interested in bringing him to FenerbahceCredit: GettyLast season, he contributed just one goal and one assist in 29 Premier League games.And his overall tally in all competitions since moving to England stands at 11 goals and five assists in 83 appearances.Erik ten Hag has handed him just one minute of action in Man Utd’s opening three Premier League matches.Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo are all ahead of him in the pecking order.READ MORE ON MAN UTDAnd while the transfer window has closed across most of Europe, it remains open in Turkey until September 13.According to Sport Witness, Mourinho’s Fenerbahce are eyeing up a loan move for Antony.They hope to have a deal finalised by Wednesday evening as they look to make the South American forward their latest signing.Mourinho, who joined Fenerbahce in the summer, has already brought in the likes of Youssef En-Nesyri, Caglar Soyuncu and Allan Saint-Maximin.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAntony managed just two goal contributions in the Premier League last seasonAnd the addition of Antony could further his hopes of leading Fenerbahce to a first league title since 2014.Meanwhile, their rivals Galatasaray have sealed a loan deal for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.’Will you let me finish’ snaps Gary Neville live on Sky Sports as Man Utd legend refuses to answer Carragher’s questionThe Nigerian forward, 25, failed to secure a transfer to Chelsea or Saudi Arabia on Deadline Day.Now he is in Turkey as he joins the club on a temporary basis.Man Utd player ratings vs LiverpoolMANCHESTER UNITED had a horror show against Liverpool as they lost 3-0.Casemiro was so bad he was taken off at half-time.But were there any positive performances at Old Trafford?Andre Onana – 5Nothing he could do about any of Liverpool’s goals and made a few saves to prevent the scoreline from getting worse.Noussair Mazraoui – 5Came close to scoring in the first half and looked solid enough against Diaz although he did push up too high before Liverpool’s opener.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Left Diaz and Domink Szobozslai in acres of space for the opening goal but was left in a tricky spot thanks to Casemiro’s error. Booked for a shocking late tackle on Diaz.Lisandro Martinez – 3Lost Diaz for the second goal which meant the Colombian was able to score unmarked from the penalty spot.Also guilty of giving away the ball too easily and was not tight enough with his marking.Diogo Dalot – 4Was caught out pushing up too quickly for the first goal and did not do enough to stop Mo Salah’s cross in the build-up to Liverpool’s second.Looked dangerous in attack at times but too infrequently as he had plenty of defensive work to do since Rashford did not track Trent Alexander-Arnold.Casemiro – 2A horror show in the first half as he gave the ball away in the lead up to both of Liverpool’s goals.He was caught on the ball for the second after a shocking misplaced pass left his defence vulnerable for the opening goal. Hooked at half-time.Kobbie Mainoo – 4Fell victim to the Casemiro curse as he was shrugged off the ball in a terrible position, allowing Liverpool to add a third with ease.Bruno Fernandes – 5Was United’s most creative spark but that is not saying much. Tried to get his side going in the first half but looked short of ideas and inspiration after the break.Alejandro Garnacho – 4Still appears to be a little rusty and is yet to hit the heights he reached last season.Marcus Rashford – 3Nothing came off for the out-of-sorts forward who must be running out of chances before he is dropped.Joshua Zirkzee – 4Quiet up-front and had little influence on the wing as well, but missed a clear-cut chance with his head and should have turned in Rashford’s cross which he met at the far post.SubsToby Collyer (for Casemiro, HT) – 5A difficult game for the youngster to make his Premier League debut but he put himself about and won a few tackles.Harry Maguire (for De Ligt, 69mins) – 5Shored things up at the back as Liverpool took their foot off the pedal.Amad (for Garnacho, 69mins) – 5Provided a spark on the right and looked more lively than Garnacho.Christian Eriksen (for Zirkzee, 86mins) – N/ANot on long enough to make an impact. More

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      Man Utd full squad wages revealed with two stars tied at top and Ten Hag’s main man shockingly way down at very bottom

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’S wages for the 2024-25 season have been revealed – with Bruno Fernandes joining Marcus Rashford as the top earners.The Red Devils endured another difficult Premier League season last term as they finished eighth but will be determined to improve this time around. Bruno Fernandes signed a new Manchester United contract this summerCredit: GettyHis new £325,000-a-week deal puts him level with Marcus RashfordCredit: GettyErik ten Hag looked set to be sacked but won the FA Cup and then signed a shock new deal.And he has made the most of his backing to bolster his squad with various new arrivals in the summer transfer window.Joshua Zirkzee was the first man through the door before Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui.Manuel Ugarte’s deadline-day switch from Paris Saint-Germain completed the first-team incomings – as Jadon Sancho headed to Chelsea on loan. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSancho is among the top-paid players on the books at Old Trafford – but is still well short of the deals Rashford and Fernandes are on.Rashford’s contract is said to be worth a whopping £325,000 and runs until 2028.Fernandes, meanwhile, was tipped for a summer exit but, like his boss, performed a U-turn and put pen to paper again.And that new deal also saw the captain rewarded with improved terms, boosting his weekly wages up to £325,000 as well.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesCasemiro completes the United salary podium on £300,000 with Mason Mount on £250,000.Antony reportedly earns £200,000 per week and new centre-back De Ligt (£195,000) pips fellow defender Harry Maguire (£190,000).Did Mazraoui Just Solve Man Utd’s Attacking Problems? | Tactics ExposedFurther back, Christian Eriksen and Luke Shaw are said to take home £150,000 a week with the trio of Lisandro Martinez, Andre Onana and Victor Lindelof all on £120,000.Summer signings Yoro (£115,000) and Zirkzee (£105,000) complete the list of players reportedly on six figures each week. Rising star Alejandro Garnacho will no doubt hope he can improve on his £50,000-per-week contract.The same goes for £20,000-a-week Kobbie Mainoo and Amad Diallo (£29,000), too. It is still unclear exactly what Mazraoui and Ugarte are being paid by United. Ugarte allegedly earned just shy of £100,000 per week during his one year at PSG while Mazraoui pocketed £130,000 a week at Bayern Munich. The Red Devils cut some big earners off the wage bill in the summer by letting Raphael Varane, Anthony Martial, Donny van de Beek, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Scott McTominay leave. Casemiro’s wages are £300,000 per week at Old TraffordCredit: GettyMatthijs de Ligt’s contract is worth £195,000 per weekCredit: PAMason Mount earns £250,000 per weekCredit: GettyKobbie Mainoo (£20,000) and Alejandro Garnacho (£50,000) will both be due pay rises soonCredit: Getty More

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      Forgotten Man Utd flop Bebe joins NINTH club since bizarre Old Trafford transfer after ripping previous contract up

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      FORMER Manchester United wonderkid Bebe has joined the 12th club of his career.The 34-year-old saw his previous contract at LaLiga side Rayo Vallecano ripped up last week.Bebe was signed by Man Utd for £7.4mCredit: Getty – ContributorBebe (right) played just seven times for UnitedCredit: GettyHe has now signed for Racing de FerrolCredit: AFPBebe had spent the last five years at the club, but his contract was terminated to help them reduce their wage bill.And it has not taken long for the player to find a new home, agreeing a deal with Spanish side Racing de Ferrol.The team from the north of the country came tenth in the second tier last season.It is Bebe’s ninth club since leaving Man Utd initially on loan and then permanently in 2014.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe Portuguese-born Cape Verde international was signed by Sir Alex Ferguson four years earlier for a reported fee of £7.4million.He went on to play just seven times for United, scoring two goals.Bebe had loan spells at Turkish side Besiktas and in his homeland with Rio Ave and Pacos de Ferreira before signing for Benfica.But he failed to make an impact in Lisbon and soon departed for Spain.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe has been there ever since also playing for Cordoba, Eibar and Real Zaragoza.Bebe’s rise to the top is the ultimate rags to riches story as he lived in a homeless shelter for eight years as a teenager.It was there where he learned to play football before catching the eye of top scouts at the European Street Football Festival.Man Utd’s best XI of academy graduatesMan Utd player ratings vs LiverpoolMANCHESTER UNITED had a horror show against Liverpool as they lost 3-0.Casemiro was so bad he was taken off at half-time.But were there any positive performances at Old Trafford?Andre Onana – 5Nothing he could do about any of Liverpool’s goals and made a few saves to prevent the scoreline from getting worse.Noussair Mazraoui – 5Came close to scoring in the first half and looked solid enough against Diaz although he did push up too high before Liverpool’s opener.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Left Diaz and Domink Szobozslai in acres of space for the opening goal but was left in a tricky spot thanks to Casemiro’s error. Booked for a shocking late tackle on Diaz.Lisandro Martinez – 3Lost Diaz for the second goal which meant the Colombian was able to score unmarked from the penalty spot.Also guilty of giving away the ball too easily and was not tight enough with his marking.Diogo Dalot – 4Was caught out pushing up too quickly for the first goal and did not do enough to stop Mo Salah’s cross in the build-up to Liverpool’s second.Looked dangerous in attack at times but too infrequently as he had plenty of defensive work to do since Rashford did not track Trent Alexander-Arnold.Casemiro – 2A horror show in the first half as he gave the ball away in the lead up to both of Liverpool’s goals.He was caught on the ball for the second after a shocking misplaced pass left his defence vulnerable for the opening goal. Hooked at half-time.Kobbie Mainoo – 4Fell victim to the Casemiro curse as he was shrugged off the ball in a terrible position, allowing Liverpool to add a third with ease.Bruno Fernandes – 5Was United’s most creative spark but that is not saying much. Tried to get his side going in the first half but looked short of ideas and inspiration after the break.Alejandro Garnacho – 4Still appears to be a little rusty and is yet to hit the heights he reached last season.Marcus Rashford – 3Nothing came off for the out-of-sorts forward who must be running out of chances before he is dropped.Joshua Zirkzee – 4Quiet up-front and had little influence on the wing as well, but missed a clear-cut chance with his head and should have turned in Rashford’s cross which he met at the far post.SubsTom Collyer (for Casemiro, HT) – 5A difficult game for the youngster to make his Premier League debut but he put himself about and won a few tackles.Harry Maguire (for De Ligt, 69mins) – 5Shored things up at the back as Liverpool took their foot off the pedal.Amad (for Garnacho, 69mins) – 5Provided a spark on the right and looked more lively than Garnacho.Christian Eriksen (for Zirkzee, 86mins) – N/ANot on long enough to make an impact. More