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      Kobbie Mainoo ‘set to REJECT Man Utd contract and move abroad’ with club desperate to ease PSR fears

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      KOBBIE MAINOO is sensationally set to REJECT a bumper new deal with Manchester United, it’s been claimed. And the Red Devils academy graduate is said to be open to a move ABROAD. Kobbie Mainoo’s contract with Manchester United expires in the summer of 2027Credit: REXTalks over a new deal began last yearCredit: AlamyMainoo is reportedly set to snub a new contract with a view to playing abroadCredit: APThe United brass initiated talks over a new deal last year, although they’ve yet to bear fruit. Mainoo has two years left on his existing deal at Old Trafford. But according to reports, he’s willing to end his love affair with United and move on to pastures new. That’s according to The Guardian, who claim the 20-year-old is open to the idea of playing in a foreign league.READ MORE IN SPORTUnited are, however, said to be quietly confident of Mainoo putting pen to paper.But they will be willing to cash in on the England international if push comes to shove.The Red Devils will demand at least £70million for the midfielder, who broke into the first team during Erik ten Hag’s reign as manager.Mainoo is currently one of United’s lowest earners, taking home a mere £20,000 a week.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSIt’s understood his team want his wages to reflect his standing in the team.But just last month, new United gaffer Ruben Amorim admitted the Three Lions star could be sold in order to help the club balance the books.Watch Kobbie Mainoo’s incredible skill as Man Utd star enjoys kickabout with Love Island star brother and kids in LA He said: “Our idea is always to keep our best players but we also know that it is a difficult situation for the club, a hard moment.“I am really happy with Kobbie — he is improving all the time.”My players are always my favourite players and I always like to keep them — especially the talented ones.”The Portuguese, however, recently challenged Mainoo to earn the pay rise he seeks.Amorim said: “Kobbie has been improving a lot over the last few matches.“But I think you guys feel like he is the finished product — he is not. READ MORE SUN STORIES”He is really good but can be so much better. He has so much potential to grow up even more.”Mainoo and his United team-mates will be back in action on Sunday, welcoming Arsenal to the Theatre of Dreams. More

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      Harry Kane can return to Premier League to make history, so could Man Utd, Chelsea, Spurs or ARSENAL move be on cards?

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      ALL English eyes were on Harry Kane this week as he bagged a brace in Bayern Munich’s Champions League grudge match against Bundesliga rivals Bayer Leverkusen.Xabi Alonso’s side were the latest ones to make Kane wait for that elusive first major title of his career when they ended Munich’s decade of domestic supremacy last term.Harry Kane scored a brace as Bayern Munich beat Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 clashCredit: GettyKane’s double on Wednesday night inspired Bayern Munich to a 3-0 win in the Champions League last 16, putting them in good stead for advancing past their German counterparts in Europe’s elite competition. But irrespective of what happens in next week’s second leg, there seems nothing that can prevent that German title medal going round his neck within a few weeks.Bayern are eight points – effectively nine given their hugely better goal difference – clear of Leverkusen with ten games to play.And their remaining opponents including six of the bottom eight and only Mainz and Leipzig in the top six.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt means Kane is on course to lay that bogey to rest – and think about the OTHER main club goal of his career.That would be for him to overhaul Alan Shearer’s Prem record tally of 260 goals – and potentially set a mark that might NEVER be broken.Kane scored 213 goals in 320 top flight games for Spurs before his £100m move to Bavaria in 2023, meaning he is just 47 goals behind Shearer’s tally – set in 441 appearances for Blackburn and Newcastle.Despite his impressive stats at Bayern, with 57 goals in 58 Bundesliga appearances and 73 in 78 matches in all competitions, Kane is not universally popular, being questioned over his contribution outside the 18-yard box and in the “big” games.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLast month, claims that he might be available this summer if a club matched his £67m release clause were not denied.That looked to open the door to a Prem return. So where could Kane, who turns 32 in July, go?Harry Kane’s ‘fugly’ £7,200 statue branded ‘stuff of nightmares’ finally unveiled after sitting in storage for almost five years TOTTENHAMA return to N17 would be the dream of Spurs fans – even if the club splashed out £65m to land Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth last summer.Kane became Tottenham’s all-time record scorer in his final season at the Lane, ending on 280 goals from 435 games as he went past Jimmy Greaves’ mark.Many Spurs fans remain convinced they would have been playing Champions League football this season if the club had put faith in Ange Postecoglou working his magic with Kane in the side – even if that would have risked him leaving for nothing last summer.Kane was desperate to land silverware with Tottenham – he spent nearly two decades at the club and will always be “one of our own”.But Kane also felt let down by Daniel Levy when his proposed move to Manchester City fell through in 2021 and it is unclear if he would consider a return to the club while the current hierarchy are in place.Or if Spurs would be willing to meet that asking price.Kane is Tottenham’s all-time top goalscorerCredit: GettyHe never managed to lift a trophy in North LondonCredit: GettyARSENALUnthinkable, surely.Kane knows how Sol Campbell is remembered by Tottenham fans after he walked out on the club to join the Gunners in 2001 – and even if it was not a direct swap he would risk destroying his reputation.But one of the most famous pictures of the young Kane was him wearing an Arsenal shirt and celebrating the “Invincibles” and their 2004 triumph – when the Prem was won at White Hart Lane.He was also on Arsenal’s books as a youngster, released after a year in their academy at the age of nine and who was then picked up by Watford before joining Spurs in 2004. Despite that, Kane has always insisted he grew up as a Spurs fan in a Spurs-supporting family.And Arsenal supporters loathed him with a passion when he scored goal after goal against them – accusing him of all sorts of nefarious activities because he was so streetwise on top.Yet Arsenal’s need for a proper No 9 has become a running joke in the game – even more than previously this season.There is no better authentic line leader than Kane, even into his early 30s. Can you imagine how much delight there would be from the Gooners if that happened?No player has scored more North London Derby goals than Harry KaneCredit: AFP or licensorsKane (left) celebrated Arsenal’s invincible season dressed in full kitKane (front row, far left) also spent a year on the books at Arsenal as a kidCHELSEAWhen Mauricio Pochettino was unveiled as Chelsea boss in 2023, the spectre of Kane following him into Stamford Bridge left many Spurs fans suffering nightmares.Barely 18 months on and Pochettino is long gone.But Chelsea’s need for a totemic central striker who can also be a creator supreme has not gone away.The new Chelsea transfer approach under Todd Boehly has been focused on young players, long-term deals and potential future sales value.That would not be a situation with Kane, who has maybe four seasons at the top level left in his locker, with little or no sell-on value even after a couple of campaigns.While it is hard to envisage Kane wearing Arsenal’s red shirt, the animosity towards Chelsea from Spurs fans is nowhere near as strong – even if it is arguably even deeper the other way, with many Blues supporters viewing Tottenham as their REAL rival.Todd Boehly would have to switch up his transfer strategy to sign KaneCredit: GettyMANCHESTER UNITEDUnited wheeled out the big guns to try to lure Kane on at least two occasions in the past.Gary Neville’s infamous golf course video interview caused major issues at boardroom level in N17, with anger through the roof. Both times, despite the opportunities, Kane refused the invitation – making it clear that he was committed to Tottenham first time round and then effectively choosing City on the next occasion.That Kane would consider going to a United in a state of utter flux now, if he does want to leave Germany, is even harder to imagine.But United’s need for someone who really could make a difference is unquestioned, with fans looking at Rasmus Hojlund’s statistics and shaking their heads at the Dane.Likewise for Sir Jim Ratcliffe, landing Kane would be a game-changer.READ MORE SUN STORIESRemember how Robin van Persie was signed as Sir Alex Ferguson’s last season “present” to fire United to the title.They have not won it since but if Kane has got the silverware monkey off his back at Bayern, he might be able to work a miracle at Old Trafford.Man Utd are in dire need for a new striker given the form of Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus HojlundCredit: GettyKane’s interview with Gary Neville in 2021 caused issues in the Spurs boardroomCredit: Sky Sports More

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      Man Utd ratings: Zirkzee goes from tears to cheers with crucial strike but Dalot deserves telling off from Hojlund

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      MANCHESTER UNITED were left to rue missed chances as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Real Sociedad in the first leg of their last-16 Europa League tie. Joshua Zirkzee scored his first European goal for the Red Devils, before a tame Sociedad outfit levelled through Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty.Joshua Zirkzee scored a deserved opener in the 57th minuteCredit: GettyMikel Oyarzabal’s penalty drew it level for the home sideCredit: ReutersManchester United have it all to play for next ThursdayCredit: EPAUnited, perhaps, deserved more. And should’ve come away with a lead going into the second leg at Old Trafford next week.Ruben Amorim’s side started on the front foot and found space on the counterattack, which has been a rarity this season.They even prevented the hosts threatening Andre Onana’s goal in the first half.Sociedad, in truth, offered very little, perhaps still shellshocked from their 4-0 demolition away at Barcelona this past weekend.The gameplan should’ve been simple at half-time: simply pass the ball in behind to Rasmus Hojlund, with the Basques slow at back.United’s dominance of the match was rewarded when Zirkzee’s shot crept past Alex Remiro in the 57th minute.But the noise – and the Poznan – came back into the Reale Arena after Bruno Fernandes’ handball was spotted by VAR and allowed Mikel Oyarzabal to level from the spot.From that point on, the home side, who had offered nothing, were the better team.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut it is Man Utd who have more right to feel aggrieved about taking just a share of the spoils back to Old Trafford.Here SunSport’s Katherine Walsh runs the rule over how each Manchester United star performed in the Basque Country.‘We’ve broken the poor man, he must hate us’ – Ruben Amorim bizarrely stands on different pitch as Man Utd flops trainAndre Onana – 5 The under-fire keeper was surely delighted to avoid any shots being peppered his way in the first half. And you could argue that he attempted to command his area a bit more and made decisions early.Wasn’t called upon to save anything of note before being sent the wrong way for Oyarzabal’s penalty and was under pressure from then on.Noussair Mazraoui – 6Moved into the back three with Harry Maguire injured and added some all-important aggression.Solid both defensively and in possession. The Moroccan won most of his duels and played some good and accurate long passes around the pitch.Made an important sprint to deny lively sub Sheraldo Becker the ball at the death.Matthijs de Ligt – 7Came up against a Sociedad front-line that didn’t perform as expected, but got a vital foot in to prevent the hosts getting a shot off on the stroke of half-time.Was very disciplined when making some key tackles and his importance ramped up after the equaliser as Becker sent several dangerous crosses into the box.In the 86th minute, the Dutch international slipped with a Sociedad player behind him, but still managed to get a vital toe in to clear the ball and save Onana.Leny Yoro – 6Still a kid, still new to United and definitely full of promise. Took another step forward here as well, with a couple of key interceptions. Important clearance at the start of the second half, which was followed up by an excellent defensive touch at the front post moments later.The teenager is becoming stronger, making it tougher on strikers, and his growing confidence means he is now stepping into midfield and defending on the front foot.Diogo Dalot – 3Loved by the players, highly rated by former managers, but so often the scapegoat for supporters. Think that’s harsh?You should have seen his lack of instinct to cross a first-time ball into Hojlund, who make a great run into the box and was five yards from Sociedad’s goal line inside 20 minutes.He’s not a real wing-back. It took a while for him to get into things and did better to find Fernandes for a chance inside the box just before half-time. But so, so sloppy in possession. Gets himself into too many good areas to keep making the wrong decision in a side so short of goals.Casemiro – 6 The five-time Champions League winner looked to launch the ball forward at the earliest opportunities to try and release one of his forwards.His efforts were rewarded for Zirkzee’s opener, when Dalot collected his long pass and laid on Garnacho for an assist.But United desperately lack a No 6, as Sociedad benefited from far too many gaps in midfield. On the whole, Casemiro operated well in tight spaces with Zirkzee. Bruno Fernandes – 5 Was denied the opener when Sociedad defender Aritz Elustondo blocked his shot off the line with his thigh five minutes before half-time.Minutes later, United’s forever creative master chipped a lovely cross into Dalot for a fleeting straight-on header.But just when United were on top, the club captain was so unlucky to concede a penalty via a jumping hand ball after the ref was sent to monitor in the 70th minute.Was booked for mouthing off to the ref in the 55th minute. That could hurt United later on, if he picks up too many yellow cards in Europe.Patrick Dorgu – 6With five outfield players on the bench, Dorgu worried Amorim when he signalled a knock to his thigh inside 30 minutes. But he carried on.The physical wing-back showed Dalot the benefits of whipping early crosses in. Did he make up for being sent off against Ipswich last week? Kind of. United look so much more threatening with him is in the side.Alejandro Garnacho – 6 Amorim kept swapping his flanks, but he got his first bit of success on the left hand side, but sorely lacked in end product AGAIN.The young Argentine fired far too many powerless shots at Alex Remiro. He is without a goal since the end of November.But his brilliant pull-back to assist Zirkzee brought United’s opener. The 20-year-old looked devastated when he was withdrawn for Christian Eriksenwith 12 minutes remaining.Joshua Zirkzee – 7Went from crying on the pitch after missing the fifth penalty against Fulham on Sunday, to gun fingers after opening the scoring tonight.And what a crucial goal it was in the 57th minute, with United fans growing tired of watching so many scuffed opportunities. Just as he did against Marco Silva’s side, he worked hard throughout the pitch and had some tidy moments of link-up play when he dropped deep to create.No doubting there’s a good player in there – he just isn’t blessed with pace and his follow-up attempt on Fernandes’ chance was far too casual.Rasmus Hojlund – 6 The under-fire Dane might not deserve all the hate he gets. His lively display in Spain was not matched with ball deliveries from his team-mates.He made smart driving runs and was right to be furious with Dalot and co. for their lack of service on several occasions. None of his team-mates provided balls he could run on to, in fact, they were always quite short in the second half.Drew fouls but again lacked a striker’s instinct when he dummied on a few crosses. Subs: Christian Eriksen (’78 for Garnacho)Didn’t do much after coming on. In fact, only offered a scuffed high cross in added time.Victor Lindelof (’88 for Yoro)Important clearance from Becker in the 92nd minute. Toby Collyer (’88 for Zirkzee)Unused: Heaven, Amass, More

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      Real Sociedad 1 Man Utd 1: Controversial VAR penalty cancels out Zirkzee opener as Amorim rues chances to put tie to bed

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      NO English football fan will forget the name Mikel Oyarzabal any time soon.He was the Spain striker who popped up with the late winner which broke Three Lions hearts in the Euro 2024 final.Joshua Zirkzee opened the scoring for Manchester United in SpainCredit: ReutersBruno Fernandes gave away a penalty for handball which was awarded by VARCredit: TNT SPORTSMikel Oyarzabal then scored the equaliser from the penalty spotCredit: GettyEight months later he was at it again – the calmest man on the park as he stroked home the penalty that keeps this Europa League tie very much in the balance.It meant more penalty woe for Ruben Amorim’s men four days after they were dumped out of the FA Cup by Fulham in a shoot-out.For a few second half minutes at least – it looked as though Manchester United were going to put that disappointment firmly behind them.And there was redemption for Joshua Zirkzee, who had seen the final spot-kick saved by Bernd Leno before slumping to the turf in tears.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis time he was all smiles as he swept home a cross from Alejandro Garnacho to give the visitors a crucial lead on the hour.But Oyarzabal – just as he did in Berlin last summer – had the last word and the tie is still on a knife edge.As is United’s season.Ruben Amorim has tried to play down the importance of winning this competition – but surely he isn’t kidding anybody.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSWinning a trophy would lift the gloom which is hanging over Old Trafford, not to mention give them a passport to the Champions League next season.It would also put a very different slant on a season which is in danger of becoming the worst since the club was relegated more than 50 years ago.’I know the consequences’ – Ruben Amorim insists he’s the right man for Man Utd but fears he may not get time to show itYet for all the problems in the current campaign, United have not lost a game in Europe – which is why they are among the favourites to go all the way to Bilbao on May 21.So there was so much at stake in San Sebastian – particularly after their FA Cup exit.And Amorim had to go into the game with a squad of just 18 – and only five outfield players on the bench – as the injury problems got worse still.United’s form at Old Trafford has been so dismal this season that it was hard to work out what would be classed as a good result here.Man Utd ratings vs Real SociedadMANCHESTER UNITED were left to rue missed chances as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Real Sociedad in the first leg of their last-16 Europa League tie. Joshua Zirkzee scored his first European goal for the Red Devils, before a tame Sociedad outfit levelled through Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty.United, perhaps, deserved more. And should’ve come away with a lead going into the second leg at Old Trafford next week.Ruben Amorim’s side started on the front foot and found space on the counterattack, which has been a rarity this season.They even prevented the hosts threatening Andre Onana’s goal in the first half.Sociedad, in truth, offered very little, perhaps still shellshocked from their 4-0 demolition away at Barcelona this past weekend.The gameplan should’ve been simple at half-time: simply pass the ball in behind to Rasmus Hojlund, with the Basques slow at back.United’s dominance of the match was rewarded when Zirkzee’s shot crept past Alex Remiro in the 57th minute.But the noise – and the Poznan – came back into the Reale Arena after Bruno Fernandes’ handball was spotted by VAR and allowed Mikel Oyarzabal to level from the spot.From that point on, the home side, who had offered nothing, were the better team.But it is Man Utd who have more right to feel aggrieved about taking just a share of the spoils back to Old Trafford.SunSport’s Katherine Walsh runs the rule over how each Manchester United star performed in the Basque Country.Yet they had the best chances of a largely forgettable first half with the first one falling to Garnacho who cut in but thumped his shot straight at home keeper Alex Remiro.Rasmus Hojlund was then furious with Diogo Dalot for passing up the chance to put him in on goal – choosing instead to go back to Garnacho.The Danish forward has not scored since mid December – and no wonder with that kind of service from the wings.Like United, Sociedad did not look to have much confidence or energy early on.They have saved their best form for the cup competitions this season and currently languish in mid-table in their domestic league.But star man Martin Zubimendi – who has been a target for Arsenal and Liverpool in the last 12 months – was pulled out due to illness.He is likely to be back for the return next week so that only added to the feeling this was United’s chance to take the tie by the scruff of the neck.They had opportunities to do so as well – most notably when Dalot chose the right option – cutting it back for skipper Bruno Fernandes.His effort was blocked by Aritz Elustondo and the rebound fell for Joshua Zirkzee who was denied by Remiro before poking the loose ball wide.Fernandes returned the compliment to his fellow Portuguese as his searching chip forward was met by the head of Dalot but his effort lacked the power’They’re anxious to score and win games’ – Amorim rues missed chancesBy Martin BlackburnRUBEN AMORIM admits the pressure is on next Thursday after Manchester United suffered more penalty woe.The Portuguese refused to comment on the controversial spot-kick which gifted Real Sociedad a draw in this Europa League last-16 first-leg clash.VAR Pol van Boekel spotted a handball by skipper Bruno Fernandes — despite nobody appealing.And after going over to his monitor, Slovakian referee Ivan Kruzliak agreed.The decision came just four days after the Red Devils were dumped out of the FA Cup following a 4-3 shootout defeat to Fulham.Asked about the  penalty, boss Amorim said: “I don’t want to talk about that — let’s just try to win the second game.”But he did acknowledge the heat will be on at Old Trafford after his ‘tired’ stars failed to build on the lead given to them by Joshua Zirkzee.Amorim said: “The pressure is going to be on us in that stadium. We have to be ready and fresh. It was clearly fatigue in that last half hour.”Alejandro Garnacho, Fernandes and Zirkzee were all guilty of missing good opportunities.Asked if United need to be more clinical, Amorim added: “That is clear, we are creating chances but sometimes you don’t see it because we manage not to shoot.“One thing I am sure of — they’re anxious to score and win games.”Amorim played down a row between Diogo Dalot and goal-shy forward Rasmus Hojlund.The Dane — who has not scored since December — was furious when Dalot failed to play him in.And Amorim said: “The decision from Diogo was not the best but the important thing is to move on and not be fighting.”Winning the Europa League is United’s last chance for silverware this season — and to clinch a Champions League spot.Rene Meulensteen — Sir Alex Ferguson’s former No 2 — feels they need Europa glory to lift some of the gloom over the club.He said: “It is so important as that’s the way back into the Champions League. If that happens you win a trophy.“Does it paint over cracks? Yes. I that falls away it is a totally disastrous season.“Manchester United has not been Manchester United since Sir Alex Ferguson left.“It has been a constant decline. It is a club in unrest — on and off the pitch.”The big plus was that Sociedad had posed almost no threat to United at all in the first half – although they did have a chance soon after the break.Takefusa Kubo’s cross was flicked on by Oyarzabal but Leny Yoro got across to make the block.However the best openings were still coming at the other end as Fernandes curled a free-kick from 20 yards narrowly wide.Then Patrick Dorgu’s cross found Garnacho at the back post but he directed his shot into the side-netting.It felt like things were starting to happen for United and just before the hour mark the breakthrough came.Garnacho rolled a pass to Zirkzee on the edge of the box and his low effort went through the legs of a defender which may have unsighted Remiro as it zipped past him.Nobody could deny the Dutch forward deserved his moment after what he went through on Sunday.It was what United deserved but as we know – nothing is ever straightforward for the Red Devils these days.The VAR spotted a handball by Fernandes as a corner was headed down and when the Slovakian ref went to check the monitor he agreed.READ MORE SUN STORIESOyarzabal never looked like missing and the tie was back in the balance.Sociedad could even have nicked it late on as Sheraldo Becker’s cross was right into the path of Orri Oskarsson but he somehow planted it the wrong side of the post. 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      Man Utd files: Ruben Amorim’s wife glum in gloomy Manchester as boss targets shock Jean-Philippe Mateta transfer

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have endured yet another difficult week.Last weekend, Ruben Amorim’s beleaguered side bowed out of the FA Cup to Fulham at Old Trafford.Ruben Amorim’s side bowed out of the FA Cup last weekendCredit: GettyThe Red Devils lost to Fulham on penaltiesCredit: PAAs usual on a Thursday, SunSport’s team of experts take you through the latest goings on behind the scenes at the Theatre of Dreams.CHECK MATEMANCHESTER United are monitoring Jean-Phillippe Mateta and could make a shock summer swoop for the Crystal Palace striker.In-form French frontman Mateta has emerged as a major target for the goal-shy Red Devils.Ruben Amorim admitted following their FA Cup penalty defeat to Fulham that his side is suffering from a goalscoring problem.It means securing a striker in the summer has now become a priority for Old Trafford chiefs.Top of the list is Sweden’s Viktor Gyokeres, Amorim’s former striker at Sporting Lisbon.But despite Gyokeres being keen on the idea of a reunion with Amorim, he’s pushing for a move to a Champions League club, which would make a switch to United a total non-starter.This has led to United casting their net wider, and they’ve watched Mateta’s last three Premier League matches.United’s scouts were also watching on as Mateta was pole-axed by the kung fu assault by Millwall keeper Liam Roberts in Saturday’s FA Cup fifth round tie, which saw the Eagles ace ferried to hospital before receiving 25 stitches in a head wound.Mateta has been in a rich vein of form since the turn of the year, scoring eight in as many Prem games including a double in Palace’s 2-0 win at Old Trafford.The striker, 27, has scored 34 goals in 106 Prem appearances – with 40 of those off the bench – since converting his initial loan move from Mainz into a permanent £11m deal in January 2022.His mobility and willingness to toil as the arrowhead means Amorim’s scouts believe he would be a prime fit for the manager’s favoured 3-4-3 formation.The chance to switch from Selhurst to Old Trafford would appeal to a player who believes he is ready to play on one of the game’s grander stages if the opportunity arrives.’Endangered his life’ – Crystal Palace owner gives Mateta injury update live on BBC and slams ‘reckless’ Millwall starHOME IS WHERE THE HEART ISUnited bosses have re-assured parents and players that the academy remains “at the heart” of the club’s strategy – despite 450 job cuts and cost-cutting measures at the club.Academy Director Nick Cox acknowledged it has been an “unsettling” season given poor results on the pitch for the first team and the “difficult decisions being taken to improve the financial position of the club”.But he added that the “development of young players is at the heart of our strategy for returning the club to the top of English and European football” and that the club remains committed to providing the academy with the money and the staff it needs to be successful.He sent out the message to parents and players in the wake of the announcement earlier this week that up to 200 more staff faced redundancy as part of cost-cutting measures introduced by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.Several academy staff were made redundant last summer, with some being told the news as shocked children and parents were being welcomed back to Carrington for the start of the season.A source said: “There’s been an awful lot of negative news coming out of Old Trafford so Nick wanted to try and reassure everyone that United is still the best place for their boys.“They have spent several years getting the academy back up to speed after losing out to Man City for a while, so don’t want all that hard work go to waste.”Academy graduate Toby Collyer made his first team debut this season while Chido Obi-Martin – who arrived from Arsenal in October – was one of the few bright spots in the FA Cup defeat by Fulham.Highly-rated Elyh Harrison, Harry Amass, Tyler Fredricson, Jack Fletcher, Sekou Kone and Jack Moorhouse were all on the bench for last month’s defeat at Spurs.United’s Under-18s beat Arsenal 3-2 in the quarter-finals of the FA Youth Cup last week.Chido Obi was in action for Man Utd last weekCredit: GettyThe Red Devils named an inexperienced bench against TottenhamCredit: GettyWINTER OF DISCONTENTManchester United’s winter of misery has put Ruben Amorim in the spotlight.But the city’s miserable winter has taken its toll as well.Training ground talk is that Amorim’s wife Maria has struggled to come to terms with the wind, rain and dark nights over the first few months of his Old Trafford reign.After a preference for the delights of home played a part in Pep Guardiola’s marriage split, there might be some concern if Amorim’s family are not settled in the north west.Ruben Amorim’s wife Maria has not immediately taken to the Manchester weatherCredit: Steve Allen – Commissioned by The SunTRAVEL EXPENSESAny United players unhappy at the prospect of being whisked half way around the world at the end of the season are set to be told there is a financial imperative for the trip.United are due to fly out to the Far East straight after their final Prem game of the campaign against Aston Villa on May 25.Ruben Amorim’s men will meet the Asean All Stars in the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur on May 28, with a further stop in Hong Kong.But dressing room moaners will be told the estimated £8m the club will earn from the trip is vital as they juggle their finances ahead of an expected season without any European football and after a campaign likely to bring a substantial cut in Prem prize money.The Red Devils went on a lucrative tour last summerCredit: GettyDORG IN THE FIGHTItalian club Lecce saw United coming in January – which is why they had to pay £25m for left-back Patrick Dorgu.Danish youngster Dorgu joined the Serie A side from Nordsjaelland in his homeland on a youth contract in 2022, becoming a fixture in their first team last term.The deal represented pure profit for Lecce, currently just three points above the Serie A drop zone.And the middle man who put the deal together, long-serving agent Frank Trimboli, pointed to the nous of Lecce sporting director Pantaleo Corvino in ensuring United paid top dollar for a key target.Trimboli explained: “Corvino who has a long tradition of buying players cheap, developing them and then selling on for substantial profits.“In his mind he’d done the research and seen what was out there, understood that January is one of those windows where if you have an asset and have to sell, there’s a premium attached – because it is the worst time to sell.”Another factor was the 2023 sale of Dorgu’s fellow Dane, highly-rated defensive midfielder Morten Hjulmund, to Sporting Lisbon for £18m.Hjulmand had arrived in Italy from Austria’s Admira Wacker for just £170,000 barely 18 months previously.Trimboli added: “They knew what previous players have been sold for and started with that number.“Then it came down to market forces, supply and demand.“United knew what they wanted to pay. Lecce knew what they wanted to receive.“There was a bit of brinkmanship that came into play but eventually they got there.”Patrick Dorgu has had an encouraging start to life at Old TraffordCredit: AlamyDIAL IT DOWNFan favourite Amad Diallo was back at Old Trafford on Sunday – but there seems little chance of supporters seeing him on the pitch before last season.Ivorian Amad, who scored the late Manchester derby winner over City and then netted a hat-trick to pull off the comeback victory over Southampton, was spotted at Sunday’s FA Cup defeat by Fulham.Amad, 22, underwent ankle surgery last month and was wearing a protective boot and using a crutch as he made his way into the stadium.While United have publicly stopped short of ruling him out for the season, he did not look like a player expected to be back on the grass any time soon.Amad Diallo is not expected back this seasonCredit: Getty More

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      Ex-Man Utd keeper makes horror blunder to gift Musiala goal as Bayern Munich thrash Leverkusen 3-0 in Champions League

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      BAYER LEVERKUSEN goalkeeper Matej Kovar made a horror blunder to gift Bayern Munich the edge in their Champions League crunch clash.Jamal Musiala capitalised when Kovar – who spent three years at Manchester United between 2020 and 2023 – dropped Joshua Kimmich’s simple cross in the 55th minute.Former Manchester United keeper Matej Kovar made a horror blunder against Bayern MunichKovar failed to collect Joshua Kimmich’s cross in the 55th minuteCredit: GettyKovar never made a first-team appearance for the Red Devils, but did play 53 times for their under-21s.With Bayern 1-0 up at the time, Arsenal and Liverpool target Kimmich’s lofty long cross should’ve been a simple catch for the Czech Republic Euro 2024 stopper. But Kovar, 24, jumped and somehow let the ball slip through his fingers in the 55th minute, to double the home side’s lead.Musiala, who was lingering underneath Kovar, pounced on the mistake and tapped home his third Champions League goal of the season.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe camera turned to a devastated Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso on the touchline.During his three year stint at United, Kovar was shipped out on loan to Swindon Town, Burton Albion and Sparta Prague, before joining Leverkusen on a permanent basis in 2023.Things went from bad to worse for the visitors after Kovar’s howler when Nordi Mukiele was sent off for a second booking for a foul on Kingsley Coman in the 62nd minute.Meanwhile, Harry Kane marked his reunion with blunder referee Michael Oliver, with two goals – his 53rd and 54th in the competition.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSKane got Bayern off to a dream start after just nine minutes, with a high back-post header over Leverkusen’s Mukiele.The England captain met former Crystal Palace star and countryman Michael Olise’s blistering pristine cross. Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich shows off his skills on the training pitch Kovar spent three years with Manchester UnitedJamal Musiala was behind Kovar and capitalised on his faux-pas to put his 2-0 upCredit: GettyBlunder ref Michael Oliver was kept busy on Wednesday nightCredit: AFPKane then won a foul from Edmond Tapsoba inside the box and scored a penalty in the 71st minute to secure a 3-0 win for the Bundesliga leaders.The former Spurs star has now scored 30-plus goals in a season for the seventh time in his club career, since the first season he did so in 2014-15.Only Robert Lewandowski has more 30 goal campaigns (nine) for clubs in Europe’s big-five leagues.Olise looked at home in the Champions League and was a menace throughout.But it took just 16 minutes, for under-fire Prem ref Oliver to be sucked into his first bit of drama.Bayern stars crowded him when Kane’s free-kick, won by Olise, struck Mukiele’s arm, who was standing in the wall inside the box inside 15 minutes.Oliver waved on before a standard VAR check confirmed no penalty.The biggest controversy came when Kane escaped a red card after a David Beckham-style kick out at Granit Xhaka.Oliver was reunited with former Tottenham star Harry KaneCredit: AFPKane lashed out at Granit Xhaka with an apparent kickXhaka shoved Kane in the back, causing the striker to fall.The England captain then lashed out at Xhaka and appeared to throw out his leg as the ex-Arsenal star fell to the turf.Team-mates and the referee had to intervene to separate the former North London derby rivals, though neither were booked.Oliver was kept busy on Wednesday night after two red card checks across the 90 minutes.He might welcome a weekend off after being kept off the Prem schedule.It comes after Oliver’s stunning initial decision not to send off a Millwall player for a kung-fu kick on Saturday.Oliver, 40, needed a VAR intervention to persuade him to issue a red card to Lions keeper Liam Roberts for his outrageous challenge on Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.Meanwhile, 10-man Barcelona beat Benfica 1-0 away from home in their first-leg tie in Lisbon.Former Leeds star Raphinha broke the deadlock in the 61st minute, with a stunning low corner finish past Anatoliy Trubin.Barca star Pau Cubarsi showed his age when he was given a straight red for a last-man challenge on Vangelis Pavlidis in the 22nd minute.Cubarsi, 18, was hoping to execute the perfect challenge, but caught Pavlidis on the edge of the box.READ MORE SUN STORIESInsodoing, he became the the second youngest player to be sent off in Champions League history after Celestine Babayaro in 1994 (16 years and 86 days).Benfica keeper Trubin had been forced into a sensational triple save just moments before the red card.Pau Cubarsi was given a straight red for a last-man challenge on Vangelis PavlidisCredit: EPA More

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      ‘Is the problem really the players?’ – Antony’s agent slams Ruben Amorim as Man Utd flop thrives at Real Betis

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      ANTONY’S agent has fired back at Ruben Amorim’s suggestion that the winger lacks the physicality to thrive in the Prem.The 25-year-old winger, who joined Real Betis from United in January on a six-month loan, has made an instant impression for Manuel Pellegrini’s side, notching three goals and two assists in seven games.Man Utd loanee Antony’s agent has fired back at Ruben AmorimCredit: GettyAntony has notched three goals and two assists in seven games for BetisAntony’s significant upturn in form has not gone unnoticed at Old Trafford.When quizzed on it, Amorim gave his take on why the Brazilian has flourished at Betis. Amorim said: “When you play against any team in England, the physicality is there. If you don’t have physicality, you will struggle a lot. “Antony is so much better now in Spain. It’s because of a lot of factors but I guarantee you it’s physicality.”READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSAnd now, Antony’s agent, Junior Pedroso, has hit back at those comments, with data to suggest Amorim’s comments were off the mark.He appeared to suggest United are to blame for Antony failing in Manchester, not the player himself.Pedroso said: “Many players who do not prosper at United find success at other clubs, which leads us to wonder if the problem really lies with the players.”We respect the opinion of coach Ruben Amorim, but we completely disagree with his analysis.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”To attribute Antony’s lack of success at Manchester United solely to the question of physicality is a very superficial argument and does not reflect reality.”The truth is that Antony has not had enough prominence or the confidence necessary to play his best football. Moment Antony told red card has been OVERTURNED and he can play Real Madrid as Man Utd flop celebrates with team-mates”Of the 15 games in which Amorim managed United, he only used Antony in nine, with a total of 252 minutes played. “This represents only 18.6% of the total possible minutes (1,350 minutes). “How can you judge an athlete without a minimum sequence to prove his worth?”Since joining Betis on loan, Antony has rediscovered his form, which has seen him win Man of the Match in three games.He even scored a stunning volley from the edge of the box against Real Sociedad last month – who United face in the Europa League on Thursday.United fans have been left scratching their heads, as he equalled last season’s goal tally in just four games last month. Pedroso added: “The manager’s statement, although perhaps it was not his intention, ends up devaluing LaLiga and the Spanish competitions.”The reality is that Antony, since he arrived at Real Betis, has become one of the best players in the team.”This makes it clear that the problem was not his physicality, but rather the context and the way he was coached in Manchester.”Antony has told Betis he would be open to extending his loan from United by a further 12 months.Betis chief exec Ramon Alarcon said: “The other day Antony told me that he wanted to stay another year.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The player is very comfortable here and was surprised by the facilities we gave him to settle in the city as soon as he arrived.”Antony, who joined United from Ajax in September 2022 for a reported £86 million, has notched just 12 goals and five assists in 96 appearances. More

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      Six ways Sir Jim Ratcliffe can win Man Utd fans back – from 100,000-seater new stadium to keeping Mainoo and Garnacho

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans are being urged to make their feelings clear at Sunday’s Premier League clash with Arsenal.The green and gold protests against the Glazer takeover are long gone, with supporters now being told to wear funeral black.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has faced the wrath of United fansA Manchester United supporters’ group has unveiled plans for a protest on March 9But what could Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Ineos, or even the Glazers do to bring the increasingly angry fans back into the Old Trafford fold?SunSport’s MARTIN BLACKBURN and MARTIN LIPTON look at the various moves that might be possible — and assess how realistic they are.BUILD, BABY BUILDStarting work on the “new Old Trafford” would be a visible and popular signal of the club’s  ambition.Confirming a new 100,000-capacity stadium, at the heart of an entertainment and regeneration complex on land adjoining the club’s home since 1910, would certainly alter the dynamics of the conversation.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe long-term benefits on income streams — likely to see an uplift to £8m in gate money every game — would be felt by the club’s power in the transfer market.In addition, the current site would have a significant redevelopment value as well. Win-win for everybody.An AI impression of the new project, which could see United build a 100,000-seater stadium Credit: CanvaIT’S GOOD TO TALKFans are desperate to feel wanted by the club — and better communication might have an immediate effect.Justifying ticket-price increases, a second round of job cuts and cost-cutting by email and press release was hardly going to bring a feel-good factor.Most read in FootballRaising the lowest price ticket to £66, with Ratcliffe having argued they should not be cheaper than at Fulham — their FA Cup conquerors on Sunday — will raise around £2m, seen by fans as a drop in the ocean given the latest record income of £662m.With bitter rivals Liverpool having recently announced a freeze on  season-ticket prices for next term, following that lead and explaining how much they value supporters would be a welcome, if unlikely, move.But equally important, for many fans, would be actually hearing from the men at the top. It is felt that Ratcliffe and Ineos sporting chief Sir Dave Brailsford are reluctant to give out any information over long or even short-term plans — when supporters are crying out to see a real vision for the club.For many, it represents no change from the remote Flordia-based ownership they became used to when the Glazers were in full control.Man Utd fans protested the rise in ticket prices at Old Trafford in DecemberSHARE AND SHARE ALIKEMUST — the Manchester United Supporters Trust — has long been urging a new share issue to allow fans to invest and take a tangible stake in the club.United do not have a shortage of wealthy fans who might be ready to put hands in their pockets even if Ineos retained full control of the sporting side of United.Inside Fulham’s wild dressing room celebrations as rowdy stars launch bottles and dive around after win over Man UtdGET THE GLAZERS GONEProbably the biggest demand of many fans — but also the least likely.The Glazer family have used United as a lucrative cash cow, taking a staggering £1.3bn from share sales and dividend payment  — while late patriarch Malcolm paid less than £800m to buy the club in 2005.They earned £715m from selling Ratcliffe his stake 12 months ago and have continued to rake in the cash over the past year.But so far there is no reason whatsoever for the Glazers to sell their remaining 75 per cent shareholding — and even less when it is Ratcliffe and Ineos who are now getting it in the neck from supporters and not them.United fans want the Glazer family to fully sell upA PROPER STRATEGYUnited’s shocking transfer market record over the past few seasons has left a squad that does not seem fit for purpose — and definitely unsuited to Ruben Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation.What the fans want to see from this summer is a coherent and structured approach to the market.Supporters recognise that not every signing will work out. But they want to see players arrive who have a clear  and defined role and who are part of a focused and not scatter gun approach.If it looks like every new player shares an agent with the manager — which many felt was the case under Erik ten Hag — that is bound to cause concern.United have splurged a staggering amount on transfersLikewise, there needs to be a clear chain of command and responsibility — the club must be the one to blame if things go wrong, not necessarily the manager.Paying out millions every 18 months to the latest managerial fall-guy is hardly a smart play — and increases the pressures over Profitability and Sustainability Rules as well.United fans, arguably more than supporters of any other club, want to see the Carrington production line bearing fruit.The proposed sales of Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo this summer would be viewed as a  massively retrograde step.United should be cultivating the crop for their own use, not be a producer for other clubs to benefit from their efforts.United fans are desperate for Kobbie Mainoo to sign an extensionAlejandro Garnacho was linked with a move away in JanuaryGET IT RIGHT ON THE PITCHA winning side, under a manager with authority, can provide cover to let the other longer-term issues be fixed with far less scrutiny  on them.Amorim arrived with expectations that have not been met and doubts are starting to swirl around the Portuguese.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut assuming he gets this summer to reshape his squad, the next step must be to show obvious positive signs on the field.Without that, the mood can only become increasingly mutinous.Man Utd ratings vs FulhamMANCHESTER UNITED crashed out the FA Cup on penalties against Fulham.Victor Lindelof and Joshua Zirkzee had poor spot-kicks saved as the Red Devils slipped to their sixth home defeat under Ruben Amorim.Fulham broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time with a well-worked corner.Antonee Robinson darted to the near post and flicked it onto Calvin Bassey who directed his header into the bottom corner brilliantly.Just as United’s frustrations were brewing, Bruno Fernandes was the saviour yet again.He picked up Diogo Dalot’s perfect cut back and fired it beyond the stretch of Bernd Leno.United had chances towards the end of the second-half, with subs Alejandro Garnacho and Chido Obi unable to finish.There was nothing to separate the sides in extra-time and penalties were needed.Despite well-taken kicks from Fernandes, Diogo Dalot and Casemiro, Lindelof and Zirkzee woefully fired directly at Fulham hero Leno.But which Man Utd players could hold their heads up and which flopped?Here, SunSport’s Ken Lawrence reveals his player ratings. More