Man Utd transfer news

MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly very interested in Raphael Varane, though Chelsea are set to provide stiff competition.Meanwhile the Red Devils could secure Barcelona’s Ousmane Dembele for a cut price £44m with the Catalan club needing to balance the books.
And we have all the latest on the continued fan protests against the Glazer family
Get all the latest Man Utd news, updates and transfer gossip here…
FINAL PUSH
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has a chance to banish his semi-final hoodoo when Utd face Roma in the Europa League last-four on Thursday.

COAST IS CLEAR
Premier League Covid testers have recorded their first clear week this season.
And League bosses believe they are proving the game is close to winning the battle against the virus.
Over the past week, two rounds of testing, comprising 2,787 samples of players and staff across the 20 clubs, found no positives.
Just over half of those – 1,472 – took place between Monday and Thursday, with a further 1,315 samples taken between Friday and Sunday.

BAILLY CONTRACT CONFIRMED
Eric Bailly has signed a new deal at Manchester United until 2024 with the option of a further year.
The Ivorian told the club’s media: “I’m very happy. This decision is something I didn’t have to think about, I love this club and I love playing for Manchester United.
“I’m happy and so are my family, everything is good. Now the moment with my injury has passed and I’m fit and feel good, and that’s it. A new contract is like a new challenge and I’m ready for this.
“That’s why I say the new contract shows the group has confidence in me – the coach, the staff and the players and, for me, that is very important.
“And that’s why I made this decision to stay at the club.”

BEL TOLLS
Manchester United are reportedly in competition with Liverpool and Tottenham in the race to sign Torino striker Andrea Belotti.
The 27-year-old has no shortage of admirers, with the player to potentially be sold in the summer with his contract to expire in 2022.
Belotti has once again impressed for the Turin outfit this term – chipping in with 12 goals and six assists in 29 Serie A games.
Since joining the Maroons from Palermo in 2015, the Italy international has banged in a staggering 104 goals in 222 outings.
And with the player unlikely to sign a new deal with Torino, Tuttosport have claimed a number of teams are vying to secure his services.
They state that the Red Devils are keen on the centre-forward as a possible replacement for Edinson Cavani.
However the Italian news outlet also adds that both Liverpool and Spurs are weighing up an offer.

FANDEMONIUM
Five Premier League clubs are included in the top ten teams that boast the biggest social media following in world football.
Nine of the sides also feature in the top ten most valuable clubs, where Barcelona pipped their Spanish rivals Real Madrid to first spot.

And once again it is the two LaLiga giants that have the most followers in figures obtained by Goal.
The news outlet calculated the data by combining the club’s Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok followers.
And Real and Barca are in a league of their own with no other side coming close to the pair.
Los Blancos boast over a whopping 252million followers across the major platforms, with the Blaugrana having just under two million fewer.
Manchester United are third on the list with over 142million followers – over 100million less than Ronald Koeman’s men.
CAN’T AFFORD JU
Juventus face having to sell Cristiano Ronaldo to Manchester United or Paris Saint-Germain if they miss out on the Champions League.
That is according to reports in Italy which doubt the Bianconeri’s ability to support the superstar’s huge wages from the Europa League.
The weekend’s draw with Fiorentina left fourth-placed Juve hanging onto Serie A’s final Champions League spot and three points clear of Napoli.
Gennaro Gattuso’s side boast a game in hand, against Torino on Monday evening, and a more favourable run-in.
Juventus were already struggling financially amid the coronavirus pandemic, reportedly hastening their push for a European Super League.
But missing out on a top-four finish would hit the club’s coffers hard at the worst possible time.
According to Tuttosport, Ronaldo costs the Old Lady a gross £1million-a-week in wages.
Credit: Getty
GOOD AFTERNOON UNITED FANS!
Eric Bailly is reportedly set to extend his time at Old Trafford by signing a new deal.
The Manchester Evening News reports the centre-back has been convinced to sign on the dotted line by the promise of more game time next season.
Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips revealed the key to keeping Bruno Fernandes in the 0-0 draw at Elland Road.
The England star lifted the lid on his stringent man-marking of the Portuguese talisman.
And Diogo Dalot’s agent insisted he will be playing for a European giant next season even if it’s not the Red Devils.
Dalot has spent this campaign on loan with Serie A side AC Milan.
Load more entries… More

MANCHESTER UNITED will reportedly be able to sign Ousmane Dembele from Barcelona for a cut price £44m this summer.Meanwhile Harry Maguire and Fred appeared to row during the 0-0 draw at Leeds.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
FER & SQUARE
Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips has revealed how he kept Manchester United talisman Bruno Fernandes quiet in Sunday’s 0-0 draw at Elland Road.
Speaking to Sky Sports after helping his team climb above Arsenal into ninth, Phillips, 25, said: “That’s what we’re about, Leeds as a club, we dig in and try to make it hard for teams.
“Particularly teams like Man Utd, it was a good game and I enjoyed the battle in midfield and everywhere on the park.”
When quizzed about his job of nulling the threat of Fernandes, he said: “We do it all games, we have different markers every game.
“My task was Bruno so I did my best to keep him quiet and luckily he didn’t pop up with a goal so I did alright.
“It depends, really (man-to-man marking), I think we’re more vulnerable when we don’t pick the wide men up and stuff like that, but I think it’s just the way that we play, we’ve always played like that.
“The attackers that we’ve got are very used to man-to-man marking and trying to press when we’re off the ball and hopefully, it brings us spaces when we’ve got it.”

NO GOOD BAILLY
Eric Bailly is reportedly set to sign a new contract at Manchester United.
The Manchester Evening News reports the centre-back is set to commit to a new deal after being reassured about his chances of playing time next season.
The Ivorian has lagged behind Victor Lindelof in the battle to partner Harry Maguire at the back.
The 27-year-old has made 100 appearances for United since joining from Villarreal in 2016.

HARRY MET PALLY
Harry Maguire has equalled Garry Pallister’s Manchester United record of 71 Premier League matches in a row without missing a minute.
71 – Harry Maguire hasn’t missed a single minute of @ManUtd’s last 71 Premier League matches, equalling Gary Pallister’s club record in the competition among outfield players (Nov 1993-May 1995). Everpresent.— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 25, 2021

ENGLAND REIGNS
English football is poised to reclaim the title of best in Europe – after NINE years.
And if either Chelsea or Arsenal beat their Spanish opponents this week, England will be confirmed in top spot – even if all four remaining Prem clubs go out at the semi-final stage.
The exploits of the Prem’s Euro battlers have seen England’s five-year coefficient score rise to 98.283 points.
Two points are earned for every win and one for each  draw in European competition, divided between the number of teams who have qualified – seven in the case of England – to provide an average score for each country.
England started the season in second place behind Spain, who have been top of the Euro table since 2012.
But while English clubs have accrued 22.071 points so far, Spain have gathered just 18.642, for a total of 96.997.
With only Real Madrid and Villarreal left of La Liga’s initial seven sides, Spain’s maximum possible final total is 98.711.
England will be assured of topping that if Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United, between them pick up just three draws or a win and a draw in their combined eight matches across both legs of the semi-finals.
SHAW THING
Luke Shaw impressed again in the 0-0 draw against Leeds as the left-back continues his stellar season and his hoping to taste victory in the Europa League semi-final against Roma on Thursday.
He told MUTV: “I think they changed the way they play a little bit.
“I think when they came to Old Trafford, they were pressing much more higher, more aggressive and I think maybe they knew they played into our hands last time, so they were a bit more cautious this time. But I still feel like we should have won the game.
“A Man Utd side like us, we need to be winning today.
“That split second, that quality… I think we got that in abundance in our team. We should be taking the chances that we had today.
We have to move on. It’s a very important game on Thursday that we need to win. That’s the main focus now.”

➡ Following Sunday’s #PL stalemate, Luke Shaw has his sights firmly set on our #UEL semi-final against Roma…#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 26, 2021

UNITED STANCE
Diogo Dalot’s agent has insisted the star is guaranteed to play for a great European club’ next season as he looks to sort his Manchester United future.
The Portuguese defender was deemed surplus to requirements at Old Trafford this season and was shipped out to AC Milan on loan last summer.
As yet, no talks between them and United have taken place over a transfer switch.
Discussing his client’s future, Carlos Goncalves told CalcioMercato: “Diogo has a contract with Manchester United until 30 June 2023.
“All decisions regarding his future will be made in due course.
“There is still a lot to be decided in the Italian league and Diogo is only focused on Milan’s immediate goals, which are to finish the 2020/21 season in the best possible way, earning a spot in the Champions League.
“But whatever the future, whatever decision is made, it’s guaranteed that Diogo will continue to play in a great European club.”

GREAT DANE
Arsenal have reportedly joined Manchester United and Chelsea in the transfer chase for Fulham’s loan star Joachim Andersen.
The 24-year-old has shone for the Cottagers this season in the top-flight despite his side looking certain to be relegated from the Premier League.
The Danish international has made 27 appearances since moving to London from Lyon but looks unlikely to make that switch permanent this summer.
Lyon are expected to cash in on the defender, and despite Andersen’s good relationship with Fulham’s Scott Parker, a move to the Championship will not interest him.
The LIgue 1 team will demand at least £20million for the centre-back.
The Mirror states that Arsenal could be preparing a swoop as a replacement for David Luiz.
The Brazilian is a free agent in June and has yet to finalise a new 12-month extension with the Gunners.

EDS TURNED
Manchester United are reportedly ‘losing the battle’ to keep Edinson Cavani this summer.
The 34-year-old striker has impressed this season at Old Trafford following his arrival on a free transfer in October.
After finding the net ten times so far, boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already held talks with the veteran about triggering a new 12-month extension.
Cavani has yet to give an answer on whether he will pen a £200,000-a-week deal to remain at United.
However, the Uruguayan is believed to be keen on returning to South America.
And The Mirror claims the Red Devils are ‘losing the battle’ to persuade him to stay with the hitman ‘wanting to sign for Argentine club Boca Juniors’ in June.

VAR SHOCKER
Manchester United look set to miss out on Real Madrid centre-back Raphael Varane.
Prem rivals Chelsea are leading the pursuit of the Frenchman, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The Red Devils have made no secret of their desire to sign a central defender to be skipper Harry Maguire’s long-term partner at the back.
Los Blancos are set to demand over £60million for the 28-year-old whose contract expires in 2022.

GOOD MORNING MAN UTD FANS
Here are your main headlines this Monday morning:
Manchester United drew 0-0 with Leeds at Elland Road on Sunday after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men failed to take their chances.
A group of fans also flew a banner over the Whites’ ground, which read “2bn stolen #GlazersOut” in protest against the Glazer family after the owners’ participation in the European Super League fiasco.
Solskjaer suggested that he was satisfied with his players’ performance despite the poor result but United legends-turned-pundits, such as Paul Ince and Paul Scholes, strongly disagreed with the Norwegian manager.
Red Devils stars, like Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire, admitted they were frustrated with the result but are now looking forward to Thursday’s Europa League clash with Roma at Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, former Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has poured cold water on United’s hopes of signing Harry Kane in the summer as he is confident he won’t leave Spurs.
The Manchester giants have been linked with Kane for a while now and rumours suggest that he will push for an exit if the north Londoners fail to qualify for the Champions League.
However, Redknapp believes the England captain will be convinced by Tottenham’s new manager to stay put at his boyhood club.
RED RUMBLE
United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer played down talk of a bust-up between Fred and Harry Maguire.
The Red Devils captain was heard calling his team-mate a “f***ing idiot” in their goalless draw with Leeds.
But Solskjaer, 48, brushed over the incident by claiming it was a result of the demands his players have of one another.
He said: “We have got a group that demands a lot of each other.
“The standard is high, both in training and in a game — it is not just about being a nice guy. We demand maximum effort.”
He added: “I was really proud of how strong we looked. I never thought they threatened our goal in the second half but we missed a little bit of spark to win the game.”
DON’T BET ON IT
Real Betis are not going to pursue a summer transfer deal with Manchester United for Eric Bailly.
That is according to El Desmarque, who denied rumours suggesting that Bailly will move to LaLiga at the end of the season.
That is because Betis will struggle to afford the United defender.
The Ivory Coast international’s contract runs out next year but Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is still hopeful that the 27-year-old will sign a new deal
RING THE BEL
Barcelona have significantly lowered their asking price for Ousmane Dembele.
That is according to reports in Spain, which claim that Dembele will be available for a fee in the region of €50million (£44m) and €60m (£52m) in the summer.
The striker has repeatedly been linked with Manchester United in the past.
The 23-year-old’s contract runs out next year and Barca will want to make sure they don’t lose him for free in 2022
KANE FUTURE
Former Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp believes star striker Harry Kane will stay at Spurs in the summer.
Reports suggested that Kane, who has been linked with Manchester United and Manchester City, will leave the north Londoners in the summer if they fail to qualify for the Champions League.
However, Redknapp is confident the England captain will remain loyal to the club after Jose Mourinho’s replacement is found.
Redknapp told Goal: “I think he’ll stay. I think the new manager will come in and convince him that they’ll be having a go and signing a few more players.
“There’s nobody better than him. I wouldn’t swap him for any centre-forward in the world, personally.
“He would guarantee Man City, Man Utd or Liverpool winning the league next season, for sure. He’s a fantastic player. Tottenham have to keep him”
LOOKING FER-WARD
Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes wasn’t pleased with the goalless draw at Leeds.
Fernandes took to social media after the game at Elland Road and described the outcome as “frustrating”.
But the attacking midfielder stated United are only focused on Thursday’s Europa League semi-final clash against Roma at Old Trafford.
The Portugal international tweeted:

HIGH FIVE
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer heaped praise on his backline – Dean Henderson, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka – for their impressive display against Leeds.
Solskjaer told the club’s official website: “It is hard to concede when the ball is in their half.
“We did well today, I thought we were assured with the ball as well – Victor, Harry, Dean, Luke and Aaron.
“When it is one against one, the times when they win the ball and break forward, it is exciting. I am disappointed we didn’t get three points, but I am very pleased with the performance”
KEANE JOKE
Manchester United legend Roy Keane showed glimpses of his humour on social media.
Keane directed a rare joke towards former team-mate Gary Neville following his passionate opposition towards the failed European Super League project.
Neville was among the loudest voices condemning the ESL and even suggested the clubs involved should be punished, including his former club United.
Keane is also opposed with the idea but that didn’t stop him and fellow United great Paul Scholes from directing a tongue-in-cheek jibe towards their former team-mate

OWEN SLAMS SOLSKJAER
Michael Owen joined a number of pundits that criticised Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s decisions after the goalless draw at Leeds.
Owen told Premier League Productions: “I was disappointed with the team that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer picked.
“I thought it was quite a negative team. You’re going to a team that you’ve already beaten 6-2 in the Premier League, you don’t really need two sitting midfielders.
“I thought it was a negative statement to start with”
SCHOLES CRITICISES SOLSKJAER
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes criticised former team-mate and current manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s decision to bench Paul Pogba as well as Edinson Cavani at Leeds.
Scholes also disagreed with Solskjaer’s post-match comments as he hinted he is pleased with the players’ performance despite the goalless draw at Elland Road.
Scholes told Premier League Productions: “I was surprised Pogba didn’t start the game, surprised Cavani didn’t start the game.
“It took him a long time to bring him on as well and chances were few and far between. Marcus Rashford’s dipping free-kick was probably the closest they came.’
“I get the impression he’s a little bit happy with that draw. I don’t think he should be [pleased], not against a Leeds team without probably their best player in Raphinha”
PEP TALK
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has praised Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola by calling him the “greatest manager”.
Neville told Sky Sports: “They’ve got the greatest manager, they really have.
“He’s built a new team inside 12 months. They are so dominant, and their football is wonderful.
“City were so dominant. Pep Guardiola’s cup final record is absolutely sensational.
“The passing and domination was a lesson for [Tottenham interim head coach] Ryan Mason. They created so many touches. To play that well in a cup final…”
GETTY IMAGES
BEST OF THE RES
Villarreal star Pau Torres continues to be among Manchester United’s transfer targets ahead of the summer market.
According to Manchester Evening News, Torres may well be on the move at the end of the season as he has been seeking advice from friends about a possible transfer.
The 24-year-old centre-back has also attracted interest from Manchester City following a string of impressive performances under Unai Emery.
United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is reportedly desperate to sign a new defender that can partner up with Harry Maguire
ED TO ED
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remained coy about former team-mate Edwin van der Sar replacing Ed Woodward as executive vice-chairman.
It was announced shortly after the European Super League fiasco that Woodward will be stepping down at the end of the year.
Van der Sar has been touted as a potential replacement but Solskjaer just hopes the right person fills the role.
The United manager said: “It’s important we employ the right man – we can’t employ on sentiment but to have Man Utd’s best interests at heart – that’s one of the criteria of course.
“But I’m not the one who writes the job description so – of course my job now is to take care of results but whoever [comes in] I’m hopeful I can have a good working relationship with and I can provide results”
SOLSKJAER ADDRESSES BANNER
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer insists his players weren’t affected by a flying banner, which targeted the Glazer family and read ‘2 billion stolen: #Glazersout’, before the game with Leeds.
Solskjaer said: “No, I wasn’t aware and I don’t think any of the boys have seen that. We focused on the game, every single one, down to a tee, this week.
“Of course, it was a difficult week but the preparation for this game was really good. It is a unique style of play to play against [Leeds] but I thought we played well.
“I’m really happy with the boys’ focus, they have such a determination to finish this season strong. The European disappointment, that was the last game of last season, that still sticks in their minds and hearts.
“We’re very, very focused to do well against Roma [in the Europa League semi-final first leg on Thursday], then we’ve got Liverpool in between, so not worried at all [about the protests]”
LUKE OUT
Manchester United star Luke Shaw suggested he and his team-mates have to improve on their finishing and stop wasting chances after their goalless draw at Leeds.
Shaw told MUTV: “I don’t think they really had too many chances, we’re defending right, we’ve improved a lot since the start of the season.
“We were conceding way too many goals and we knew that as a back unit and we’ve worked on that.
“We need to keep pushing ourselves to be more clinical in front of goal, because a Man United side with the talent we’ve got we need to be winning today”
GETTY IMAGES
LEAVING A MARK
Leeds ace Kalvin Phillips suggested he kept Manchester United superstar Bruno Fernandes quiet during their goalless draw at Elland Road.
Phillips told Sky Sports: “We man mark every game.
“I tried to keep Bruno quiet. Thankfully he didn’t pop up with a goal so my job is alright.
“We are more vulnerable if we don’t pick wide men up. It is the way we play. The attackers are used to the marking and pressing”
Load more entries… More

MANCHESTER UNITED were held to a goalless draw at Leeds, with skipper Harry Maguire appearing to clash with midfielder Fred.We’ve also got the updates on the fallout from the ill-fated European Super League.
Meanwhile, we’ve the very latest on a potential swoop for keeper Tom Heaton and Luke Shaw is set for a bumper pay rise.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
RED RUMBLE
United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer played down talk of a bust-up between Fred and Harry Maguire.
The Red Devils captain was heard calling his team-mate a “f***ing idiot” in their goalless draw with Leeds.
But Solskjaer, 48, brushed over the incident by claiming it was a result of the demands his players have of one another.
He said: “We have got a group that demands a lot of each other.
“The standard is high, both in training and in a game — it is not just about being a nice guy. We demand maximum effort.”
He added: “I was really proud of how strong we looked. I never thought they threatened our goal in the second half but we missed a little bit of spark to win the game.”
DON’T BET ON IT
Real Betis are not going to pursue a summer transfer deal with Manchester United for Eric Bailly.
That is according to El Desmarque, who denied rumours suggesting that Bailly will move to LaLiga at the end of the season.
That is because Betis will struggle to afford the United defender.
The Ivory Coast international’s contract runs out next year but Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is still hopeful that the 27-year-old will sign a new deal
RING THE BEL
Barcelona have significantly lowered their asking price for Ousmane Dembele.
That is according to reports in Spain, which claim that Dembele will be available for a fee in the region of €50million (£44m) and €60m (£52m) in the summer.
The striker has repeatedly been linked with Manchester United in the past.
The 23-year-old’s contract runs out next year and Barca will want to make sure they don’t lose him for free in 2022
KANE FUTURE
Former Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp believes star striker Harry Kane will stay at Spurs in the summer.
Reports suggested that Kane, who has been linked with Manchester United and Manchester City, will leave the north Londoners in the summer if they fail to qualify for the Champions League.
However, Redknapp is confident the England captain will remain loyal to the club after Jose Mourinho’s replacement is found.
Redknapp told Goal: “I think he’ll stay. I think the new manager will come in and convince him that they’ll be having a go and signing a few more players.
“There’s nobody better than him. I wouldn’t swap him for any centre-forward in the world, personally.
“He would guarantee Man City, Man Utd or Liverpool winning the league next season, for sure. He’s a fantastic player. Tottenham have to keep him”
LOOKING FER-WARD
Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes wasn’t pleased with the goalless draw at Leeds.
Fernandes took to social media after the game at Elland Road and described the outcome as “frustrating”.
But the attacking midfielder stated United are only focused on Thursday’s Europa League semi-final clash against Roma at Old Trafford.
The Portugal international tweeted:

HIGH FIVE
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer heaped praise on his backline – Dean Henderson, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka – for their impressive display against Leeds.
Solskjaer told the club’s official website: “It is hard to concede when the ball is in their half.
“We did well today, I thought we were assured with the ball as well – Victor, Harry, Dean, Luke and Aaron.
“When it is one against one, the times when they win the ball and break forward, it is exciting. I am disappointed we didn’t get three points, but I am very pleased with the performance”
KEANE JOKE
Manchester United legend Roy Keane showed glimpses of his humour on social media.
Keane directed a rare joke towards former team-mate Gary Neville following his passionate opposition towards the failed European Super League project.
Neville was among the loudest voices condemning the ESL and even suggested the clubs involved should be punished, including his former club United.
Keane is also opposed with the idea but that didn’t stop him and fellow United great Paul Scholes from directing a tongue-in-cheek jibe towards their former team-mate

OWEN SLAMS SOLSKJAER
Michael Owen joined a number of pundits that criticised Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s decisions after the goalless draw at Leeds.
Owen told Premier League Productions: “I was disappointed with the team that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer picked.
“I thought it was quite a negative team. You’re going to a team that you’ve already beaten 6-2 in the Premier League, you don’t really need two sitting midfielders.
“I thought it was a negative statement to start with”
SCHOLES CRITICISES SOLSKJAER
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes criticised former team-mate and current manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s decision to bench Paul Pogba as well as Edinson Cavani at Leeds.
Scholes also disagreed with Solskjaer’s post-match comments as he hinted he is pleased with the players’ performance despite the goalless draw at Elland Road.
Scholes told Premier League Productions: “I was surprised Pogba didn’t start the game, surprised Cavani didn’t start the game.
“It took him a long time to bring him on as well and chances were few and far between. Marcus Rashford’s dipping free-kick was probably the closest they came.’
“I get the impression he’s a little bit happy with that draw. I don’t think he should be [pleased], not against a Leeds team without probably their best player in Raphinha”
PEP TALK
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has praised Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola by calling him the “greatest manager”.
Neville told Sky Sports: “They’ve got the greatest manager, they really have.
“He’s built a new team inside 12 months. They are so dominant, and their football is wonderful.
“City were so dominant. Pep Guardiola’s cup final record is absolutely sensational.
“The passing and domination was a lesson for [Tottenham interim head coach] Ryan Mason. They created so many touches. To play that well in a cup final…”
GETTY IMAGES
BEST OF THE RES
Villarreal star Pau Torres continues to be among Manchester United’s transfer targets ahead of the summer market.
According to Manchester Evening News, Torres may well be on the move at the end of the season as he has been seeking advice from friends about a possible transfer.
The 24-year-old centre-back has also attracted interest from Manchester City following a string of impressive performances under Unai Emery.
United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is reportedly desperate to sign a new defender that can partner up with Harry Maguire
ED TO ED
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remained coy about former team-mate Edwin van der Sar replacing Ed Woodward as executive vice-chairman.
It was announced shortly after the European Super League fiasco that Woodward will be stepping down at the end of the year.
Van der Sar has been touted as a potential replacement but Solskjaer just hopes the right person fills the role.
The United manager said: “It’s important we employ the right man – we can’t employ on sentiment but to have Man Utd’s best interests at heart – that’s one of the criteria of course.
“But I’m not the one who writes the job description so – of course my job now is to take care of results but whoever [comes in] I’m hopeful I can have a good working relationship with and I can provide results”
SOLSKJAER ADDRESSES BANNER
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer insists his players weren’t affected by a flying banner, which targeted the Glazer family and read ‘2 billion stolen: #Glazersout’, before the game with Leeds.
Solskjaer said: “No, I wasn’t aware and I don’t think any of the boys have seen that. We focused on the game, every single one, down to a tee, this week.
“Of course, it was a difficult week but the preparation for this game was really good. It is a unique style of play to play against [Leeds] but I thought we played well.
“I’m really happy with the boys’ focus, they have such a determination to finish this season strong. The European disappointment, that was the last game of last season, that still sticks in their minds and hearts.
“We’re very, very focused to do well against Roma [in the Europa League semi-final first leg on Thursday], then we’ve got Liverpool in between, so not worried at all [about the protests]”
LUKE OUT
Manchester United star Luke Shaw suggested he and his team-mates have to improve on their finishing and stop wasting chances after their goalless draw at Leeds.
Shaw told MUTV: “I don’t think they really had too many chances, we’re defending right, we’ve improved a lot since the start of the season.
“We were conceding way too many goals and we knew that as a back unit and we’ve worked on that.
“We need to keep pushing ourselves to be more clinical in front of goal, because a Man United side with the talent we’ve got we need to be winning today”
GETTY IMAGES
LEAVING A MARK
Leeds ace Kalvin Phillips suggested he kept Manchester United superstar Bruno Fernandes quiet during their goalless draw at Elland Road.
Phillips told Sky Sports: “We man mark every game.
“I tried to keep Bruno quiet. Thankfully he didn’t pop up with a goal so my job is alright.
“We are more vulnerable if we don’t pick wide men up. It is the way we play. The attackers are used to the marking and pressing”
INCE CRITICISM
Manchester United legend Paul Ince criticised Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s decision-making after the goalless draw at Leeds.
Ince told Sky Sports: “Sometimes you can be fooled by results, thinking a team is playing well but saw against Burnley last week and also today, they are so inconsistent.
“I didn’t see they had any tempo. The intensity wasn’t there. It was that bad the referee blew up before the end of injury time. It was a bad performance from both teams, like watching a kids team play.
“United need to do a lot better on Thursday. Some of the decisions [Solskjaer] made. [Edinson] Cavani came on for six minutes, United needed a goal. They took [Marcus] Rashford off when they had two sitting midfielders. [Donny] Van De Beek, who they paid £40million for, gets three minutes.
“These decisions can’t be right if you are going to win football matches. United have always been brought up on winning games, trying to find a way to win games”
SOLSKJAER REACTS
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is satisfied with his players’ performance even though they didn’t take their chances.
Solskjaer told Sky Sports: “There’s no guarantees in football that’s for sure.
“I thought we played well, really well, dominated the second half, just didn’t have the ball to fall correctly for us in the big moments we had. We had some decent chances but didn’t take them.
“When two teams meet you create problems, you solve problems, they give you things to think about and we made them adjust to us. They are a unique team. We put a really big shift down. I have seen Leeds run over teams in the second half and it was quite the opposite.
“You don’t lose momentum, we are disappointed not to win but the boys have a lot of respect for Leeds. This is not going to be something we look back on as derailing our season”
KEEPING THE GAR-D UP
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has warned that co-chairman Joel Glazer could attempt to impose the Super League model again and insisted his apology “doesn’t wash”.
Neville told Sky Sports: “Last week, I said it was an attempted murder of English football and ‘sorry’ doesn’t wash, it’s gone past sorry because it’s twice they’ve done it.
“If you were sorry the first time with Big Picture, then you wouldn’t have brought back this one, so you’re going to bring back another.
“[Florentino] Perez has told us, [Joan] Laporta has told us from Barcelona, two of the biggest clubs in the world – ‘We’re coming back for you’ – so this lot are not going away but they need to be stopped”
GETTY IMAGES
MAGUIRE REACTS
Manchester United star Harry Maguire claims his team didn’t take its chances to “punish” Leeds at Elland Road.
Maguire told Sky Sports: “It was tight. We had control of the game without punishing them.
“We knew how they would play, our attacking players love a one v one but today it wasn’t to be.
“It’s a big week for us and we must improve on what we showed today”
FULL-TIME
It’s full-time at Elland Road with Manchester United and Leeds enduring a goalless draw.
United remain second in the Premier League table with 10 points separating them from rivals Manchester City at the top.
But the Red Devils are enjoying a comfortable eight-point lead from third-placed Leicester.
Leeds have climbed up to ninth with six points separating them from seventh place, which usually leads to next season’s Europa League

LES MISERABLE
Luke Shaw’s new contract at Manchester United will raise doubts over Alex Telles’ future at the club.
Telles’ arrival from Porto last summer furthered speculation that Shaw was on his way out of United.
According to the Daily Star, however, the Brazil international may be the one to leave Old Trafford following the England defender’s impressive comeback.
The 28-year-old is reportedly unhappy with his lack of game time and could force a move away from the Red Devils at the end of the season
SHAW-FIRE HIT
Manchester United ace Luke Shaw is set to be offered a new contract by the club.
According to the Daily Star, Shaw will be offered a contract extension along with a pay-rise by United.
The left-back has been enjoying a tremendous comeback under manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after falling down the pecking order during Jose Mourinho’s tenure at the Red Devils’ helm.
The England international is likely to earn £190,000 a week until the end of the 2025-26 season, something that would make him the sixth highest-paid player at Old Trafford

H/T: LEEDS 0 MAN UTD 0
Man Utd’s pressure faded late in a scrappy first half.
For a blow-by-blow account of this Premier League clash at Old Trafford, click on our MATCH BLOG.
GLAZE OVER IT AND MOVE ON
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says the Glazers will not walk away from Manchester United after their Super League slapdown.
Hundreds of United fans protested outside Old Trafford on Saturday over the American owners’ involvement in the European Super League.
Solskjaer said: “I think the owners that signed up for this proposal have a job on their hands, of course they have.
“We’ve had an apology from Joel and that’s important. He’s told us how committed he is to helping us go forward.
“Unity and everyone coming together for one common goal is the best way forward.”
PLANE ANGER
Furious Manchester United fans flew a ‘#GlazersOut’ banner over Elland Road in protest against their owners.
The Red Devils made the trip to Leeds on Sunday afternoon to continue their long-standing rivalry.
And before kick-off a place went over the stadium with a sign calling for the American family to sell the club. It read: “2bn stolen #GlazersOut.”
Already unpopular among United supporters, the Glazers infuriated fans even further last week by being conspirators in the breakaway European Super League plot.
Joel, one of the co-chairmen, did apologise in a statement after the club’s dramatic U-turn.
But his brother and fellow co-chairman Avram refused to say sorry for his involvement. And then made no comment when quizzed if he would sell the club.

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MANCHESTER UNITED fans vented their anger against the board on Saturday for their European Super League blunder.Thousands of supporters were outside Old Trafford yesterday, burning an American flag as they protested against the Glazer family.
Meanwhile, we’ve the very latest on a potential swoop for keeper Tom Heaton and Luke Shaw is set for a bumper pay rise.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
SOLSKJAER REACTS
Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is satisfied with his players’ performance even though they didn’t take their chances.
Solskjaer told Sky Sports: “There’s no guarantees in football that’s for sure.
“I thought we played well, really well, dominated the second half, just didn’t have the ball to fall correctly for us in the big moments we had. We had some decent chances but didn’t take them.
“When two teams meet you create problems, you solve problems, they give you things to think about and we made them adjust to us. They are a unique team. We put a really big shift down. I have seen Leeds run over teams in the second half and it was quite the opposite.
“You don’t lose momentum, we are disappointed not to win but the boys have a lot of respect for Leeds. This is not going to be something we look back on as derailing our season”
KEEPING THE GAR-D UP
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has warned that co-chairman Joel Glazer could attempt to impose the Super League model again and insisted his apology “doesn’t wash”.
Neville told Sky Sports: “Last week, I said it was an attempted murder of English football and ‘sorry’ doesn’t wash, it’s gone past sorry because it’s twice they’ve done it.
“If you were sorry the first time with Big Picture, then you wouldn’t have brought back this one, so you’re going to bring back another.
“[Florentino] Perez has told us, [Joan] Laporta has told us from Barcelona, two of the biggest clubs in the world – ‘We’re coming back for you’ – so this lot are not going away but they need to be stopped”
GETTY IMAGES
MAGUIRE REACTS
Manchester United star Harry Maguire claims his team didn’t take its chances to “punish” Leeds at Elland Road.
Maguire told Sky Sports: “It was tight. We had control of the game without punishing them.
“We knew how they would play, our attacking players love a one v one but today it wasn’t to be.
“It’s a big week for us and we must improve on what we showed today”
FULL-TIME
It’s full-time at Elland Road with Manchester United and Leeds enduring a goalless draw.
United remain second in the Premier League table with 10 points separating them from rivals Manchester City at the top.
But the Red Devils are enjoying a comfortable eight-point lead from third-placed Leicester.
Leeds have climbed up to ninth with six points separating them from seventh place, which usually leads to next season’s Europa League

LES MISERABLE
Luke Shaw’s new contract at Manchester United will raise doubts over Alex Telles’ future at the club.
Telles’ arrival from Porto last summer furthered speculation that Shaw was on his way out of United.
According to the Daily Star, however, the Brazil international may be the one to leave Old Trafford following the England defender’s impressive comeback.
The 28-year-old is reportedly unhappy with his lack of game time and could force a move away from the Red Devils at the end of the season
SHAW-FIRE HIT
Manchester United ace Luke Shaw is set to be offered a new contract by the club.
According to the Daily Star, Shaw will be offered a contract extension along with a pay-rise by United.
The left-back has been enjoying a tremendous comeback under manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after falling down the pecking order during Jose Mourinho’s tenure at the Red Devils’ helm.
The England international is likely to earn £190,000 a week until the end of the 2025-26 season, something that would make him the sixth highest-paid player at Old Trafford

H/T: LEEDS 0 MAN UTD 0
Man Utd’s pressure faded late in a scrappy first half.
For a blow-by-blow account of this Premier League clash at Old Trafford, click on our MATCH BLOG.
GLAZE OVER IT AND MOVE ON
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says the Glazers will not walk away from Manchester United after their Super League slapdown.
Hundreds of United fans protested outside Old Trafford on Saturday over the American owners’ involvement in the European Super League.
Solskjaer said: “I think the owners that signed up for this proposal have a job on their hands, of course they have.
“We’ve had an apology from Joel and that’s important. He’s told us how committed he is to helping us go forward.
“Unity and everyone coming together for one common goal is the best way forward.”
PLANE ANGER
Furious Manchester United fans flew a ‘#GlazersOut’ banner over Elland Road in protest against their owners.
The Red Devils made the trip to Leeds on Sunday afternoon to continue their long-standing rivalry.
And before kick-off a place went over the stadium with a sign calling for the American family to sell the club. It read: “2bn stolen #GlazersOut.”
Already unpopular among United supporters, the Glazers infuriated fans even further last week by being conspirators in the breakaway European Super League plot.
Joel, one of the co-chairmen, did apologise in a statement after the club’s dramatic U-turn.
But his brother and fellow co-chairman Avram refused to say sorry for his involvement. And then made no comment when quizzed if he would sell the club.

‘EARN IT’
Leeds fans have savaged Manchester United with a brutal banner outside Elland Road this afternoon.
The banner, which describes the Red Devils as ‘plastic’ and ‘shallow’, is in response to the failed attempt at creating a European Super League.
The banner reads: “ESL and MUFC – just a tactical, temporary withdrawal, we see! Until your PR agents and media can reframe a package and construct an acceptable narrative and plan for your greedy, selfish followers to push this through in two years’ time. We know who you are! We know you from old!
“Manchester United! Nonsense! What a joke! Find a new, more appropriate name! This was always coming, given the soulless, win at all costs, plastic, shallow, selfish, worthless money monster you have made of yourselves!
“MUFC have fed off and divided, not United, football and communities. You are killing football! Children should be encouraged to support their community and play fairly and not bully people by exclusion!
“The Leeds family is fully United with and in full support of and shoulder to shoulder with all true LFC, MCFC, AFC, THFC, and with the few remaining genuine MUFC and CFC fans, whose clubs have been hijacked by power monger and shallow weak-minded glory hunters! And together we’re fans United, we’ll never be divided! Earn it on the pitch! Football is for the fans!”

KICK-OFF!
Leeds 0 – 0 Man Utd
The players are off and underway at Elland Road.
And you can follow SunSport’s LIVE kick-by-kick match blog HERE.
NO POG PROBLEM
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has left Paul Pogba on the bench against Leeds in order to manager his game time.
Dan James comes in to replace the Frenchman and the Norwegian admitted he has Thursday’s Europa League semi-final first-leg against Roma in mind.

I CAN SEE THE STARS
Manchester United’s players have arrived at Elland Road ready for this afternoon’s game against Leeds.
Victor Lindelof and Dean Henderson were among the Red Devils stars pictured making their way into the historic stadium.

TEAM NEWS IS IN!
Manchester United vs Leeds kicks-off at 2pm at Elland Road.
And this is how both teams will line up for the eagerly anticipated clash.
📋 Marcelo names an unchanged side to the one that drew against Liverpool, but Summerville and Greenwood feature on the bench— Leeds United (@LUFC) April 25, 2021

TELL ME MORENO
Manchester United target Pau Torres has been asking his teammates what it’s like to play for a big club – and one of them is Alberto Moreno.
The ex-Liverpool flop, who joined Torres at Villarreal in 2019, is one of three players to give the 24-year-old some much-needed advice.
Speaking to Spanish newspaper Sport, Torres said: “Players who have gone through important clubs, when they talk about an experience they have had, I like to listen to them, both Paco Alcacer and Raul Albiol or Alberto Moreno.
“They tell you things that you have not yet experienced and that you think you would like to experience.”
The Red Devils are said to be keen on signing the centre back, with reports suggesting a £52million bid may be imminent.
Real Madrid, however, are also believed to interested in the Spain international and may challenge the Premier League side for his signature.

RED-DY TO GO!
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is ready for a serious challenge at Leeds this afternoon.
Manchester United travel to Elland Road for the 2pm kick-off and the Norwegian warned his side they have to be prepared physically and mentally.

WAYNE LEFT ON BENCH – EXCLUSIVE
Wayne Rooney was consigned to the bench as he waited for his dinner with wife Coleen.
The Derby boss, 35, looked deep in thought while his other half, also 35, studied her phone.
The pair had popped out with their Pomeranian Pip to collect a food order from a café near their home in Prestbury, Cheshire.
It came as Wayne vowed to back Coleen ‘all the way’ in her Wagatha Christie court fight.
A source told The Sun Online last year: “Wayne and Coleen Rooney are stronger than ever after spending lockdown together.
“This is the longest time they have spent together uninterrupted since they got married, and Coleen has fallen in love with Wayne all over again. She says that she now remembers what a wonderful, caring companion he is – and an amazing dad to the boys.”

BLANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND – EXCLUSIVE
Thierry Henry hailed his ‘happiest moment’ as English football unites in a stand against racism and all online abuse.
The Prem, EFL and the women’s game will boycott Twitter, Facebook and Instagram over four days next weekend.
From 3pm on Friday, April 30, through to the end of Bank Holiday Monday on May 3, every club will switch off their social media accounts.
Prem legend Henry has been at the forefront of the fight after removing himself from social media last month.
He said: “English football coming off social media is a powerful statement. Everything that tries to destroy the beauty and the happiness of our game — we should fight it.
“This is my happiest moment. Football stands for something. Not only money. What happened with the European Super League was about standing up for values — and so is this.”

PREM PLEA
Manchester United and Arsenal are monitoring Borussia Monchengladbach striker Alassane Plea, according to reports.
The 28-year-old France international has scored five Bundesliga goals this term and will reportedly cost around £15million.
According to the Daily Mail, Plea wants to leave the German giants this summer and, with only one year left on his current deal, will be available for a relatively low price.
Gladbach paid £21m for the player back in 2018 when he arrived from Nice, having previously been linked with a move to Arsenal.
At the time there were also reports linking Plea with both West Ham and Tottenham. It is believed Arsenal are concerned about losing star strikers Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang this summer.
Plea has scored 27 goals in 87 Bundesliga games since leaving Nice three years ago. The versatile forward, who can be deployed out wide, picked up his one and only France cap in November 2018.

HEAT-ING UP – EXCLUSIVE
Manchester United will look to old boy Tom Heaton if Sam Johnstone does not fancy a return.
Boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his Old Trafford transfer team are looking for an experienced cover keeper.
And West Brom’s Johnstone, 28 — who was registered with United from 2009 to 2018 — is their first choice. He would need to think he had a chance of playing regularly.
But while Johnstone is the clear number one target, United have also been checking out the interest and availability of another former employee who is out of favour just now and may be more keen.
Aston Villa’s Heaton, 35, is in the frame after losing his place to Emi Martinez. He is the type of solid pro who would fit the bill.
Like Johnstone, Heaton was a youth keeper at Old Trafford and stayed on their books until 2010. The new stopper would have to be happy as an understudy but with the ability to quickly step into the first team.

FOSTER CARE – EXCLUSIVE
Manchester City are looking for a new keeper to push Brazilian No 1 Ederson next season.
Ex-Manchester United stopper Ben Foster, 38, fits the bill but may take some persuading to move just to sit on the bench. Foster has played 22 times for the Hornets this season as they sealed their return to the Premier League on Saturday.
American Zack Steffen may be loaned out for experience after doubts crept in about whether he was ready to come in when top-choice Ederson was missing.
Those questions were raised before Steffen’s error in the FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea, which cost his club a chance of the Quadruple. The 26-year-old had previously prompted doubts about his consistency and maturity, so the search for another keeper was already up and running.
It is a hard vacancy to fill as most keepers want regular first-team action. City may go for an experienced option who is happy to wait for his turn.
Scott Carson, 35, is the club’s current third-choice stopper but will return to Derby at the end of the campaign.

LEEDING THE WAY
Man Utd head to Elland Road in the 2pm kick-off today.
The rivalry used to be fierce the last time the Whites were in the Premier League and both sets of fans will be desperate to win this one.
Coming off the back of a stunning win at Manchester City before a 1-1 draw with Liverpool, Marcelo Bielsa’s men will be hoping to avoid defeat once again against a member of the renegade six.
Leeds will leapfrog Arsenal into ninth with a win while United will all but confirm their Champions League spot next season if they pick up all three points.

BACK IN THE RED
The Glazers will accept no less than £4BILLION to sell Manchester United, according to reports.
The Super League debacle has already cost United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward his job – with the former JP Morgan banker leaving at the end of 2021.
But it will take more than fan protests – where Red Devils fans burned American flags – to get the Glazer brothers out of Old Trafford, according to the Mirror.
The Florida-based family want £4bn to even consider walking away – the figure they think they would have got if the Super League had gone ahead.
They only paid £790million for the Red Devils in 2005. And if they manage to find a buyer willing to match their asking price, they stand to make more than 400 per cent profit on their initial investment.
Throughout their unpopular reign, club debt has remained high while the brothers’ pocketed multi-million pound annual dividends. And that is why it would take such a staggering sum to make them sell up, according to city investors cited by the Mirror.

GOOD MORNING MAN UNITED FANS
Here are your main headlines this Sunday morning:
Thousands of United fans protested against the Glazers outside Old Trafford yesterday, burning an American flag at one stage.
Boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has insisted the controversial owners will not sell the club – despite their embarrassing European Super League climbdown.
Avram Grant has refused to apologise for the affair – and his perceived lack of respect for the United faithful was certainly recognised in Manchester yesterday.
Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez has warned United and the rest of the so-called ‘Big Six’ they cannot leave the ESL and the competition still exists.
Although the ESL may not be coming to Old Trafford any time soon, Tom Heaton might as SunSport’s Alan Nixon understands the Red Devils have identified the Aston Villa goalkeeper as cover.
And Heaton isn’t the only Villa player linked with United as they are said to be tracking wonderkid Carney Chukwuemeka.

GLAZER TAG
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says the Glazers will not walk away from Manchester United after their Super League slapdown.
Hundreds of United fans protested outside Old Trafford on Saturday over the American owners’ involvement in the European Super League.
Solskjaer said: “I think the owners that signed up for this proposal have a job on their hands, of course they have.
“We’ve had an apology from Joel and that’s important. He’s told us how committed he is to helping us go forward.
“Unity and everyone coming together for one common goal is the best way forward.”
Manchester United fans protest outside Old Trafford in a bid to remove club’s owners

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MANCHESTER UNITED fans are set to protest against the Glazer family ahead of their match against Liverpool on May 2.We’ve got an exclusive update on Tom Heaton’s return to Old Trafford, while Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes could be set for new deals.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
GLAZER TAG
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says the Glazers will not walk away from Manchester United after their Super League slapdown.
Hundreds of United fans protested outside Old Trafford on Saturday over the American owners’ involvement in the European Super League.
Solskjaer said: “I think the owners that signed up for this proposal have a job on their hands, of course they have.
“We’ve had an apology from Joel and that’s important. He’s told us how committed he is to helping us go forward.
“Unity and everyone coming together for one common goal is the best way forward.”
Manchester United fans protest outside Old Trafford in a bid to remove club’s owners

BLANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND
Thierry Henry hailed his ‘happiest moment’ as English football unites in a stand against racism and all online abuse.
The Prem, EFL and the women’s game will boycott Twitter, Facebook and Instagram over four days next weekend.
From 3pm on Friday, April 30, through to the end of Bank Holiday Monday on May 3, every club will switch off their social media accounts.
Prem legend Henry has been at the forefront of the fight after removing himself from social media last month.

GIGGS’ NEW LOVE
Ryan Giggs has found love with a lingerie model — as he waits to appear in court charged with assaulting two women, including his ex-girlfriend.
The former Manchester United star, 47, was seen out with Zara Charles, 33, in Hale, Cheshire, days before he was also charged with coercive and controlling behaviour against ex Kate Greville, 36.
A source said: “Zara has been supporting Ryan over the last few months.
“She’s a great, upbeat girl. Ryan has been completely open with her about his situation. They seem very strong together.”
Giggs was, on Friday, charged with assaulting two women.
One alleged victim is his ex Kate and the other — a woman in her twenties — is believed to be her younger sister.

MANCHESTER LADS
Could you imagine playing for United AND City?
Well, here are just a handful of players that have crossed the Manchester divide during their playing days – including legendary goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel.

KYL THE THREAT
United are the only team Kylian Mbappe has faced at least twice this season without managing to score.
Not a bad stat for the Red Devils…
Credit: Getty
SHAW TO GET MORE
Luke Shaw is set to receive a reported £40k pay rise.
According to the Daily Star, the United defender will be offered a new £190,000-a-week deal to keep him at Old Trafford until 2026.
Shaw has been one of the team’s best players this season, making 40 appearances in all competitions.
Gareth Southgate says Luke Shaw’s passes are beautiful after England win
SIX MORE?
The last time United played Leeds they hammered them 6-2 at Old Trafford.
Will we see a similar scoreline tomorrow?

THE FINAL SIX
United’s final Premier League fixtures are as follows:
Tomorrow: Leeds United (a)
Sunday, May 2: Liverpool (h)
Sunday, May 9: Aston Villa (a)
Tuesday, May 11: Leicester City (h)
Saturday, May 15 (TBC): Fulham (h)
Sunday, May 23: Wolves (a)
And here’s how they’ve performed in the league to date…

BIG WIN FOR YOUNGSTERS
United’s U18 have beaten Wolves 5-1 at Carrington.
Charlie McNeill and Zidane Iqbal both scored twice and there was also a goal for Dillon Hoogewerf.
The result puts United top of the U18 Premier League North table.
Here’s the best of the action…
🏁 FT — #MUAcademy U18s: #MUFC 5 Wolves 1.Neil Ryan’s side produce an emphatic response to last weekend’s defeat, with Charlie McNeill (2), Zidane Iqbal (2) and Dillon Hoogewerf all on the scoresheet for United. pic.twitter.com/pnNADpC387— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 24, 2021

SECOND PROTEST COMING
Today won’t be the last time we’ll see United fans complaining about the Glazers.
Rumours on Twitter suggest another protest is scheduled for next Sunday ahead of United’s home match against Liverpool.
And as Liverpool fans are also furious at their owners, could we see the two fan bases protesting together?
Stranger things have happened in the last week.
Here is SunSport’s report from today’s events at Old Trafford.
NEW ERROR
Thousands of ‘New Era’ Super League football shirts have been put on sale for just £2 after the competition’s calamitous collapse.
Last Sunday, it was revealed 12 clubs had signed up for the controversial breakaway tournament.
But by Tuesday, the European Super League was dead in the water after NINE clubs – including all of the Premier League’s Big Six – withdrew following an incredible fan backlash.
However, within that 48-hour window, a well-known high street store had designed a ‘New Era’ football shirt for each of the six English clubs involved.
The unnamed chain bought a staggering 70,000 tops and had planned to sell them for £29.99.
However, Wholesale Clearance UK have now decided to take the jerseys off their hands and try to sell them themselves for just £2, a sensational 93 per cent price slash.
Credit: NC
FAN OF THAT
Manchester United star Nemanja Matic has hailed his manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for showing ‘we respect our supporters’ by confronting angry protesters this week.
A group of fuming fans stormed Carrington on Thursday morning, in protest at the club’s decision to break away as part of the European Super League.
The fans brought banners with them, featuring anti-board messages including ‘Glazers Out’ and ’51 % MUFC 20′.
Matic and Solskjaer, as well as ex-players Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher confronted the angry supporters.
And the Serbian, 32, believes that the incident is a ‘positive thing’.
He told Sky Sports: “We saw the fans here in our training ground and that was very nice from our manager to decide to go out and speak to them.”
Credit: Getty
UNITED FANS BURN AMERICAN FLAG
The protest is in full flow at Old Trafford.
A video has emerged on Twitter of United fans burning the American flag.
The protesters are desperate to see the back of their American owners – the Glazers – following the failed European Super League plot.
Here’s the video…

COME HERE CHUK
Manchester United and Manchester City are monitoring Aston Villa prodigy Carney Chukwuemeka, reports claim.
The midfielder, 17, is an emerging talent at Villa Park and is edging closer to first-team action, having featured on the bench against City on Wednesday.
And he is very highly rated by his current club, with chief executive Christian Purslow describing Chukwuemeka as ‘probably the best 16-year-old in England’ last year.
A number of clubs have now joined the Manchester clubs in taking an interest, The Guardian claims.
Monaco, PSV Eindhoven and RB Leipzig are all believed to be tracking the youngster, with the latter no strangers to pinching young English talent.
Juventus and Bayern Munich have also been linked to the wonderkid in the past.

39 YEARS OF WHITESIDE
It’s 39 years since Norman Whiteside made his Manchester United debut as a 16-year-old.
The Northern Ireland international went on to become a legend at Old Trafford, winning two FA Cups before joining Everton in 1989.
Injury forced him to retire aged just 26 – yet he remains a cult hero among United fans.
WOW on this day 39 years ago I was honoured as a 16 year old boy to make my debut for Man Utd the best football club in the world , a day I will never forget :)— Norman Whiteside (@NormanWhiteside) April 24, 2021

CROWD’S GROWING
Rumours are emerging on Twitter that more people have turned up to the protest.
As many as 5,000 people could be campaigning against the Glazers at Old Trafford.
And the crowd could get very big, very quickly.
Thousands of Arsenal fans protested against Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates last night.
Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
3,000 AT OLD TRAFFORD PROTEST
A video of this afternoon’s protest has emerged on Twitter, claiming ‘at least 3,000’ are currently in attendance.
The United Trinity statue of George Best, Denis Law and Sir Bobby Charlton has been covered by scarves and a sign that reads ‘GLAZERS OUT’.
Gold and green flares – an ode to the club’s original colours – have been lit and famous United chants can be heard.
Here’s the breaking news story.

SOL DESTROYING
Rio Ferdinand has opened up on the ribbing he received from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after his £30million move to Manchester United in 2002.
The England star set a record as most expensive defender ever at the time as he swapped Leeds United for Old Trafford.
And the United dressing room, including current boss Solskjaer, demanded the highest standards immediately.
Speaking to the Mail, Ferdinand revealed that he immediately found passes being fired at his shins in training, as his new team-mates tested his skills. And when one didn’t stick, there was hell to pay.
Ferdinand, 42, said: “Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the one who immediately went, ’30mill? Really? Wow’.
“It was intimidating but you have to cope. I have seen players walk in for England or United and you can see the fear. They can’t deal with it.”

SEEING RED
Manchester United fans have headed to Old Trafford in their droves to protest against the club owners.
Supporters are furious following the foiled plans for the European Super League.
Red Devil fans arranged the protest on Twitter for 3pm on Saturday – exactly 123 years after the club was founded.
Manchester United even shut the Old Trafford megastore earlier in the afternoon ahead of the expected protests.
The loyal fanbase were vocal in their anger towards American owners The Glazers which was further fuelled following the fallout of the ESL.
They set off smoke bombs, chanted against the Glazers and held banners such as ‘Glazer Out Now’ and ‘Enough is Enough.’

KLOWNING AROUND
Gary Lineker has hit out at Jurgen Klopp for being ‘spectacularly tone deaf’ over the European Super League fallout.
The Liverpool boss was further asked his thoughts following the fierce backlash and collapse of the money-making farce.
A hundred or so angry Liverpool fans protested against their American owners before kick-off against Newcastle on Saturday afternoon.
Arsenal and Chelsea supporters protested outside their stadiums while a group of Manchester United fans also blocked the player’s access to the Carrington training ground – all in protest against the ESL plans.
Klopp was eager to remind supporters that the blame lies only at the feet of the owners while asking the public to ‘calm down’ with their opinions.
Lineker was far from impressed with Klopp’s reasoning and believe the fans have every right to continue making their voices heard.

“You all have to calm down. It’s winding people up.””Nobody wanted it. Definitely. But now let’s deal with it.”A passionate Jurgen Klopp on dealing with, and moving forward from the European Super League fallout.🎙 @TheDesKelly pic.twitter.com/2xMFzfIPUt— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 24, 2021

RAPH AND READY
Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes always talks about rumoured target Raphinha, team-mate Fred has revealed.
The Leeds United winger is reportedly on the Red Devils’ radar, having impressed since joining Marcelo Bielsa’s side from Rennes. And having played alongside Raphinha at Sporting Lisbon, Fernandes hasn’t forgotten his talent.
Fred, who played for Raphinha’s boyhood club Internacional, told Man United’s official website: “Bruno’s been talking about Raphinha ever since he arrived. They played together at Sporting.
“He’s a great player having an amazing season and a lot of clubs have their eye on him. I met him recently, great guy, excellent player but… I hope he won’t be lining up against us!
“I wish him a quick recovery and a lot of success in his career. He’s a stand-out star player for Leeds so, of course, it’s better for us if he’s not on the pitch.
“If he does play, we’ll look to mark him carefully and work on our game-plan as best as possible. We’ll try to nullify his threat to come out on top in this game.”
Raphinha and Bruno Fernandes were team-mates at Sporting
‘NO TIME TO RELAX’
Mason Greenwood has lauded the impact Marcus Rashford and Edinson Cavani have had on him at Manchester United.
The young forward said: “You couldn’t ask for anyone better with Marcus being in a similar situation that I have, and then there’s Cavani who has won it all.
“He’s played for a number of years and it’s perfect timing for him to come into the club really at the time he did. He’s helped me a lot this season – he speaks to me sometimes and tries to help me work on my heading and stuff like that. He’s a nice lad and I’m very pleased that he’s here.
“You always need the older players in the team who have done it all and then you’ve got the younger players looking up to them and you feed on stuff they’ve done. You just watch them in training and you add it to your game.
“You’ve got the likes of Nemanja [Matic] who has won Premier Leagues with Chelsea, you’ve got Juan [Mata] who has played for many years. You’ve got Bruno [Fernandes] in behind you in that 10 position and he’s always talking, always giving me tips on playing. You’ve got a lot of older players you can just watch and take note of.
“We’re all good players here at United, so there is never time to relax because there could be that kid coming up who wants to take your position; you’ve got to always want to keep fighting. You’ve got to always want to play football and I always want to play for United, and be the player scoring goals for Manchester United.”

AV THAT UNITED
Avram Glazer refused to apologise to Manchester United fans over the European Super League plot.
And when asked whether he will sell the club, the Red Devils co-chairman ‘snapped’ in response. The Mirror tracked down the American near his £16million six-bedroom mansion in Palm Beach, Florida.
He was approached by a reporter as he visited a pharmacy in a black t-shirt, grey jeans and red trainers while driving his big, white Jeep Wrangler.
Glazer, 60, had not been seen since his club confirmed their intention to join the controversial breakaway competition last Sunday and subsequent withdrawal within 48 hours.
The Mirror reporter repeatedly asked him if he wanted to say sorry to fans – but he declined.
He was then asked if he would sell United following the debacle but the report adds he snapped back: “No comment.” Glazer got into his car alongside wife Jill and sped off and returned home.

‘READY TO FIGHT’
Manchester United star Mason Greenwood says there’s still more to come from him at Old Trafford.
The striker is enjoying an excellent run of form in the team of late, scoring four times in his last three Premier League games.
And he thanked former United academy graduates like Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay and Jesse Lingard for their impact on his career.
He said: “I’ve come a long way really. I always knew I could take the pressure, take it into the first team.
“It’s been a good journey and there have been lots of ups and downs. But I’m only 19 and I’m ready to carry on fighting for the badge and for United. I had Marcus and Scott, Jesse and Paul [Pogba], the likes of them coming up through the academy.
“It’s them just leaving little footprints behind you that you’ve got to follow, do what they did and take it in your stride really and when you come up to the first team it’s like a family anyway, so you just do what you do.”

RED RAGE – BREAKING
Liverpool fans are the latest to launch a furious protest against their club’s owners amid the failed European Super League breakaway.
Supporters descended on Anfield on Saturday morning ahead of the lunchtime kick off against Newcastle.
Banners displaying messages such as ‘Spirit of Shanks, Not Greedy Yanks’ and ‘FSG rats’ were placed for the Reds’ team coach to see on route to the ground.
Liverpool’s American owner John W Henry is refusing to sell the club amid the European Super League fiasco despite widespread calls for him to get out.
Reds legend Jamie Carragher is one of thousands of Liverpool fans calling for the American to leave but the billionaire has dug his heels in and said: “My work is not done.”

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MANCHESTER UNITED fans are set to protest against the Glazer family ahead of their match against Liverpool on May 2.We’ve got an update on a potential swoop for Norwich full-back Max Aarons, while Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes could be set for new deals at Old Trafford.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
39 YEARS OF WHITESIDE
It’s 39 years since Norman Whiteside made his Manchester United debut as a 16-year-old.
The Northern Ireland international went on to become a legend at Old Trafford, winning two FA Cups before joining Everton in 1989.
Injury forced him to retire aged just 26 – yet he remains a cult hero among United fans.
WOW on this day 39 years ago I was honoured as a 16 year old boy to make my debut for Man Utd the best football club in the world , a day I will never forget :)— Norman Whiteside (@NormanWhiteside) April 24, 2021

CROWD’S GROWING
Rumours are emerging on Twitter that more people have turned up to the protest.
As many as 5,000 people could be campaigning against the Glazers at Old Trafford.
And the crowd could get very big, very quickly.
Thousands of Arsenal fans protested against Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates last night.
Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
3,000 AT OLD TRAFFORD PROTEST
A video of this afternoon’s protest has emerged on Twitter, claiming ‘at least 3,000’ are currently in attendance.
The United Trinity statue of George Best, Denis Law and Sir Bobby Charlton has been covered by scarves and a sign that reads ‘GLAZERS OUT’.
Gold and green flares – an ode to the club’s original colours – have been lit and famous United chants can be heard.
Here’s the breaking news story.

SOL DESTROYING
Rio Ferdinand has opened up on the ribbing he received from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after his £30million move to Manchester United in 2002.
The England star set a record as most expensive defender ever at the time as he swapped Leeds United for Old Trafford.
And the United dressing room, including current boss Solskjaer, demanded the highest standards immediately.
Speaking to the Mail, Ferdinand revealed that he immediately found passes being fired at his shins in training, as his new team-mates tested his skills. And when one didn’t stick, there was hell to pay.
Ferdinand, 42, said: “Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the one who immediately went, ’30mill? Really? Wow’.
“It was intimidating but you have to cope. I have seen players walk in for England or United and you can see the fear. They can’t deal with it.”

SEEING RED
Manchester United fans have headed to Old Trafford in their droves to protest against the club owners.
Supporters are furious following the foiled plans for the European Super League.
Red Devil fans arranged the protest on Twitter for 3pm on Saturday – exactly 123 years after the club was founded.
Manchester United even shut the Old Trafford megastore earlier in the afternoon ahead of the expected protests.
The loyal fanbase were vocal in their anger towards American owners The Glazers which was further fuelled following the fallout of the ESL.
They set off smoke bombs, chanted against the Glazers and held banners such as ‘Glazer Out Now’ and ‘Enough is Enough.’

KLOWNING AROUND
Gary Lineker has hit out at Jurgen Klopp for being ‘spectacularly tone deaf’ over the European Super League fallout.
The Liverpool boss was further asked his thoughts following the fierce backlash and collapse of the money-making farce.
A hundred or so angry Liverpool fans protested against their American owners before kick-off against Newcastle on Saturday afternoon.
Arsenal and Chelsea supporters protested outside their stadiums while a group of Manchester United fans also blocked the player’s access to the Carrington training ground – all in protest against the ESL plans.
Klopp was eager to remind supporters that the blame lies only at the feet of the owners while asking the public to ‘calm down’ with their opinions.
Lineker was far from impressed with Klopp’s reasoning and believe the fans have every right to continue making their voices heard.

“You all have to calm down. It’s winding people up.””Nobody wanted it. Definitely. But now let’s deal with it.”A passionate Jurgen Klopp on dealing with, and moving forward from the European Super League fallout.🎙 @TheDesKelly pic.twitter.com/2xMFzfIPUt— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) April 24, 2021

RAPH AND READY
Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes always talks about rumoured target Raphinha, team-mate Fred has revealed.
The Leeds United winger is reportedly on the Red Devils’ radar, having impressed since joining Marcelo Bielsa’s side from Rennes. And having played alongside Raphinha at Sporting Lisbon, Fernandes hasn’t forgotten his talent.
Fred, who played for Raphinha’s boyhood club Internacional, told Man United’s official website: “Bruno’s been talking about Raphinha ever since he arrived. They played together at Sporting.
“He’s a great player having an amazing season and a lot of clubs have their eye on him. I met him recently, great guy, excellent player but… I hope he won’t be lining up against us!
“I wish him a quick recovery and a lot of success in his career. He’s a stand-out star player for Leeds so, of course, it’s better for us if he’s not on the pitch.
“If he does play, we’ll look to mark him carefully and work on our game-plan as best as possible. We’ll try to nullify his threat to come out on top in this game.”
Raphinha and Bruno Fernandes were team-mates at Sporting
‘NO TIME TO RELAX’
Mason Greenwood has lauded the impact Marcus Rashford and Edinson Cavani have had on him at Manchester United.
The young forward said: “You couldn’t ask for anyone better with Marcus being in a similar situation that I have, and then there’s Cavani who has won it all.
“He’s played for a number of years and it’s perfect timing for him to come into the club really at the time he did. He’s helped me a lot this season – he speaks to me sometimes and tries to help me work on my heading and stuff like that. He’s a nice lad and I’m very pleased that he’s here.
“You always need the older players in the team who have done it all and then you’ve got the younger players looking up to them and you feed on stuff they’ve done. You just watch them in training and you add it to your game.
“You’ve got the likes of Nemanja [Matic] who has won Premier Leagues with Chelsea, you’ve got Juan [Mata] who has played for many years. You’ve got Bruno [Fernandes] in behind you in that 10 position and he’s always talking, always giving me tips on playing. You’ve got a lot of older players you can just watch and take note of.
“We’re all good players here at United, so there is never time to relax because there could be that kid coming up who wants to take your position; you’ve got to always want to keep fighting. You’ve got to always want to play football and I always want to play for United, and be the player scoring goals for Manchester United.”

AV THAT UNITED
Avram Glazer refused to apologise to Manchester United fans over the European Super League plot.
And when asked whether he will sell the club, the Red Devils co-chairman ‘snapped’ in response. The Mirror tracked down the American near his £16million six-bedroom mansion in Palm Beach, Florida.
He was approached by a reporter as he visited a pharmacy in a black t-shirt, grey jeans and red trainers while driving his big, white Jeep Wrangler.
Glazer, 60, had not been seen since his club confirmed their intention to join the controversial breakaway competition last Sunday and subsequent withdrawal within 48 hours.
The Mirror reporter repeatedly asked him if he wanted to say sorry to fans – but he declined.
He was then asked if he would sell United following the debacle but the report adds he snapped back: “No comment.” Glazer got into his car alongside wife Jill and sped off and returned home.

‘READY TO FIGHT’
Manchester United star Mason Greenwood says there’s still more to come from him at Old Trafford.
The striker is enjoying an excellent run of form in the team of late, scoring four times in his last three Premier League games.
And he thanked former United academy graduates like Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay and Jesse Lingard for their impact on his career.
He said: “I’ve come a long way really. I always knew I could take the pressure, take it into the first team.
“It’s been a good journey and there have been lots of ups and downs. But I’m only 19 and I’m ready to carry on fighting for the badge and for United. I had Marcus and Scott, Jesse and Paul [Pogba], the likes of them coming up through the academy.
“It’s them just leaving little footprints behind you that you’ve got to follow, do what they did and take it in your stride really and when you come up to the first team it’s like a family anyway, so you just do what you do.”

RED RAGE – BREAKING
Liverpool fans are the latest to launch a furious protest against their club’s owners amid the failed European Super League breakaway.
Supporters descended on Anfield on Saturday morning ahead of the lunchtime kick off against Newcastle.
Banners displaying messages such as ‘Spirit of Shanks, Not Greedy Yanks’ and ‘FSG rats’ were placed for the Reds’ team coach to see on route to the ground.
Liverpool’s American owner John W Henry is refusing to sell the club amid the European Super League fiasco despite widespread calls for him to get out.
Reds legend Jamie Carragher is one of thousands of Liverpool fans calling for the American to leave but the billionaire has dug his heels in and said: “My work is not done.”

FLOR-GET ABOUT IT
Deluded Florentino Perez has warned the Premier League so-called ‘Big Six’ they cannot leave the European Super League.
And the Real Madrid chief continues to insist the widely-hated new breakaway franchise division ‘still exists’
The self-proclaimed ‘saviour of football’ Perez reiterated to AS that Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham and the two Manchester clubs are legally tied into the plans and the ESL will go ahead in some format.
He said: “I’m not going to explain now what a binding contract is… But come on, the clubs can’t leave. Some of them, because of pressure, have had to say that they’re leaving.
“But this project or one like it will go forward, and I hope it’s soon. The Super League still exists, and the members are still in it.
“Now we have given ourselves some weeks to think, while we face the violence that some people, who don’t want to lose their privileges, have used to manipulate our project.”

SUN BACK PAGE – ICYMI
In case you missed it, here is today’s Sun back page.
We led of the chasm between West Ham and Chelsea as fallout from the money-grabbing Super League plot rumbles on.
And powerful images of thousands of Arsenal fans protesting against Stan Kroenke showed the strength of feeling among football fans across England.

NO SCORING – EXCLUSIVE
Football fans get less bedroom action when their team loses, research reveals.
Experts found birth rates plunged nine months after a shock defeat.
They think the unexpected losses can trigger changes in key hormones that result in lower libido. Being grumpy over a loss also reduces fans’ chances of getting frisky.
Poor results for a team saw birth rates locally down by 0.8 per cent nine months later. Researchers found the effect was even more dramatic if teams lost a relegation battle or a major European match.
In those cases, nine months later births were down by as much as 1.3 per cent. Scientists analysed 14 years’ worth of data and matched every result in Spain’s La Liga with local birth rates.
By comparing betting odds with actual scores, they could calculate whether or not the result was an upset.

ENA-MORR-ED
Former Manchester United wonderkid Ravel Morrison declared his love for Arsenal again – and is desperate to see them win the Premier League again.
The midfielder, 28, was born and bred in the Wythenshawe area of Manchester – just like fellow Mancunians Marcus Rashford and Tyson Fury.
He came through the youth ranks at United from nine alongside Jesse Lingard and Paul Pogba then went on to make three first-team appearances in the League Cup under Sir Alex Ferguson.
But while he still ‘appreciates’ the Red Devils and many fans still laud his talent, Morrison’s love lies solely with the Gunners.
Speaking to the United fan-run Stretford Paddock podcast, the former West Ham and Lazio man, now a free agent, said: “We’ve got a better team than you. I’m a Gunner. I’m a Gunner.
“I’m not a United fan. I would like United to come second in the league and Arsenal to win the league. I would always want United to be the second team, never to go lower than that. I will always appreciate Manchester United, but obviously, Arsenal would win the league.”

MASTER PLAN
Sir Alex Ferguson reckons Euro 2020-bound Scotland must IGNORE rivals England to storm into the last 16.
Former Scotland boss Fergie has warned Steve Clarke’s stars not to focus on the June 18 showdown with the Auld Enemy at Wembley.
Sir Alex said: “The one thing I would warn against is paying too much attention to the England match. If you get a result in every game, then you will give yourself a chance of qualifying.
“But the England game looks after itself. Getting a result against the Czechs is imperative. A win there and a win against Croatia — who were in the World Cup final — would be so important. I’m hopeful we can do well.
“I’m optimistic. The games coming up in the group will be very tough, you have got to recognise that.
“But the important thing about the home games is having fans back in, even if it’s just 12,000.”

‘LIED 100 TIMES’
Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin says Juventus chief Andrea Agnelli lied to him 100 times in the build up to the European Super League announcement.
He also revealed Ed Woodward called him the Thursday before the announcement to express his agreement with the new Champions League format.
“I can say that the world is flat, but it is not.””And if you think that a Super League of two clubs is a league then you can say that, but that’s quite funny.” UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin on the Super League. #SuperLeague pic.twitter.com/onqZVeX8sw— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) April 22, 2021

KARREN BRADY – EXCLUSIVE
Just in case you think the threat of the European Super League has scotched the privilege of football’s self-chosen few, it hasn’t — not yet.
Uefa, aware of the media-entitled Dirty Dozen’s greed for more, more, more, had taken this into account when they re-drew plans for the Champions League.
Announced the day after the short-lived Super League coup, their plan accepted the right of the dozen to special treatment giving ‘clubs with the highest club coefficient over the last five years’ two places among the 36 in the first round.
This means simply that should, say, Leicester finish sixth in the Premier League and Spurs tenth, then Spurs having the ‘coefficient’ — a coverall word for a decent record and a big reputation — could go through.
Leicester, by the way, have as many Premier League titles as Liverpool, and one more than Spurs. Anyone can see this is not fair. It is a further connivance at gross favouritism and, indeed, a suggestion from Uefa that there were grounds for the breakaway.
There aren’t. The way to win a place must be on the field not in a cabal of men in suits. I watched four of the six give apologies to their fans and players for being part of the money cartel and wondered where the apology was to their colleagues in the Premier League, as well as all our managers, players and fans.

GUN BLAZING
Manchester City star Ilkay Gundogan has blasted Uefa and called the revamped Champions League the ‘lesser of two evils’ amid the collapse of the European Super League.
His club announced on Tuesday night they were pulling out of the controversial breakaway after backlash from fans and criticism from players.
And City boss Pep Guardiola even refused to call it sport when quizzed about it.
Two squad members of the Premier League leaders, Kevin De Bruyne and Aymeric Laporte, both used their social media platforms to publicly condemn the proposal earlier in the week.
Now Gundogan has become the latest City star to express his views as he also slammed Uefa’s new format for the Champions League.
The UCL format right now works great and that is why it’s the most popular club competition in the world – for us players and for the fans.— Ilkay Gündogan (@IlkayGuendogan) April 22, 2021

GOOD MORNING FOOTY FANS
Manchester United fans are planning a protest against the Glazers before the Liverpool match next month.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hit out at the botched Super League plan. 
The Red Devils beefed up their security after fans broke into the training base at Carrington. 
Former United winger Ryan Giggs has been charged with coercive control and assaulting his ex-girlfriend after a row. It has ruled him out of taking charge of Wales’ Euro 2020 campaign this summer.
United face competition from clubs including West Ham and Tottenham for Norwich defender Max Aarons.Former United striker Louis Saha believes the club need to sign Harry Kane or Erling Haaland to compete for the Premier League title.
Old Trafford missed out on potentially staging Euro 2020 matches because of summer pitch work planned for the ground. 
AMAD DELIVERS
Manchester United fans will be happy to see rising star Amad score during the Under-23s’ 4-2 win over Chelsea tonight.
The United winger netted a superb free-kick to help the side overcome Chelsea.
Shola Shoretire also continued his impressive progress with two goals in the Red Devils’ win.

EDIN OFF
A reminder that Edinson Cavani appears to have his heart set on moving on this summer and returning to South America.
Boca Juniors are reportedly in the driving seat to land the Manchester United striker.
Credit: Reuters
The 34-year-old is out of contract at Old Trafford at the end of the season and wants to be closer to his family.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer praised Cavani recently and opened up on his contract situation.
He said: “For a new lad who doesn’t speak English and not having his family over here, of course [returning to South America] is in the back of his head.
“If he decides it’s just the season then we’d be very happy to have had him here.
“We’ve had up front and honest meetings. It’s no secret we want to keep him. I don’t think it’s any secret too that this has been a difficult year for everyone.”
GREAT SCOT
Sir Alex Ferguson is a big fan of Manchester United’s Scott McTominay and has been delighted by his progress.
The former Red Devils manager revealed he was the man who brought the midfielder to Old Trafford, aged around seven or eight.
Credit: The Sun
Ferguson told the Scottish FA: “McTominay is now emerging as one of Man United’s big players.
“When you watch United pick a team for a big game, McTominay is in it.
“Good character, great trainer, I know a little bit about the boy.
“I signed him when he was seven or eight. He was actually a centre-forward as a kid. He has sprouted, a little bit like Darren [Fletcher] when he first came.
“McTominay is a similar type as Darren, long, lanky, good winner of the ball, good turn of pace going forward, great attitude to the game.”
GIGGS VOWS TO CLEAR NAME
Ryan Giggs has vowed to clear his name after being charged with coercive control and assaulting his ex-girlfriend Kate Greville after a row.
The former Man Utd star was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm against PR exec Kate.
He faces an additional charge of coercive and controlling behaviour between December 2017 and November 2020.
Giggs has also been charged with a second count of assault against another woman aged in her 20s following the alleged bust-up at his home.
In a statement, Giggs said: “I have full respect for the due process of law and understand the seriousness of the allegations.
“I will plead not guilty in court and look forward to clearing my name.
“I would like to wish Robert Page, the coaching staff, the players andthe supporters every success at the Euros this summer.”
Credit: Getty Images – Getty
WELSH CHAOS
Ryan Giggs will miss out on leading Wales at Euro 2020 after the former Manchester United star was charged with coercive control and assault on his ex-girlfriend.
The Crown Prosecution announced their decision this afternoon into the alleged incident at Giggs’ home in Manchester last November.
Robert Page will continue to take charge of Wales, on a temporary basis, with his role extending to the duration of this summer’s tournament.
The Welsh FA released a statement which said: “The Football Association of Wales has noted the decision of The Crown Prosecution Service to proceed with charging Ryan Giggs, the Men’s National Team Manager.
“In light of this decision, the FAW can confirm that Robert Page will assume the role of Cymru Men’s National Team manager for this summer’s EURO 2020 tournament and will be assisted by Albert Stuivenberg.
“An FAW Board meeting will be convened to discuss these developments and its impact on the Association and the National Team.”
Credit: AFP or licensors
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MANCHESTER UNITED fans are planning a protest over the Glazer family’s ownership before the club’s game against Liverpool.The Red Devils host the soon-to-be-dethroned champions at Old Trafford on May 2.
Meanwhile we have all the latest as the Glazer family publicly apologise for attempting to form a European Super League.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
GIGGS CHARGED
Former Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs has been charged with coercive control and assaulting his ex-girlfriend Kate Greville after a row.
The Wales manager, 47, was held after cops were called to his £1.7million mansion in Worsley, Greater Manchester on November 3.
He was quizzed at a police station before being released on bail pending further enquiries.
But Giggs was charged today with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and one count of coercive and controlling behaviour against PR exec Kate.
The second count spans more than three years – between December 2017 and November 2020.
Giggs has also been charged with a second count of assault against another woman aged in her 20s following the alleged bust-up last year.
He will appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court on April 28.
Credit: PA
TO THE MAX
West Ham have joined the fight for Max Aarons this summer and Norwich are willing to let the defender leave, according to reports.
Aarons, 21, has been a long-term target of Manchester United and it now appears he is on the radar of Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Tottenham.
West Ham and United will have to pay £30million to land the England U21 international, claim The Independent.
The Canaries persuaded him to stay last summer but a promise the club made means Aarons has now been told he can leave.
But it is The Irons who could hold the advantage in the transfer battle, as Aarons is reportedly keen to stay in the south.
That could rule out a move abroad or to United, and West Ham may have the added appeal of European football to offer next year.

BACK TO BRUM
Manchester United legend Lee Sharpe was once told to move his girlfriend back to Birmingham by Sir Alex Ferguson.
Sharpe, now 49, had been desperate to move out of digs as a youngster, in order to live with his other half. But when his form subsequently suffered, he felt the famous wrath of his manager.
The ex-Old Trafford wing wizard said: “I had a few run-ins with him, to be fair!
“The biggest one was when we went to Anfield. Before that match, I had asked to move out of digs and move in with my girlfriend in my own house.
“He said I was a little bit too young, but he let me do so because I was in the first team. But he told me that if my work suffered then I’d have to move back into digs. I said that was no problem.
“I found a house in Whitefield and moved my girlfriend up from Birmingham and everything was great. But then I hit a little bit of form that wasn’t quite up to the manager’s standards.
“We were at Anfield getting beat at half-time, and he gave me the biggest rollicking of my life and told me to sell my house, move my girlfriend back home and told me to get out there and play!”
Lee Sharpe (right) with Fergie and Ryan GiggsCredit: Getty – Contributor
FORWARD THINKING
Manchester United need to sign Harry Kane or Erling Haaland to compete for the Premier League title, according to two-time winner Louis Saha.
The Red Devils look on course to finish second this term, well adrift of leaders Manchester City.
He told GentingBet: “I think when you look at Harry Kane and Haaland, it’s two different profiles but they score goals.
“Haaland has a great future, he is a top striker and you can see he already has that fire in him so he will really help any side in this world because of that.
“He’s got the size, he’s got the speed, he’s got all the qualities you need to be a top striker.
“Harry is more about consistency, you know what he’s going to give you. He’s like a super striker, but a super team player as well. A captain in so many ways.
“So yes these guys can give a lot to Manchester United but again it depends on the strategy of the management with the transfers.
“If they want to win a Premier League, these are the kind of players you have to get – a player who has 30 games and 30 goals.”

CAV A GO
Here’s how Manchester United could line-up against Leeds.

SOL-LESS
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hit out at the botched plan for a European Super league being driven by his own boss Joel Glazer.
The Manchester United manager only became aware of it on the day it was announced last Sunday and has since had to confront an angry group of protestors at the club’s training ground.
Credit: Getty
Solskjaer said: “I didn’t like the concept, it has to be on sporting merit, I want to earn the right to play in Europe.
“We know we’ve been pioneers and we’ve been in Europe for many, many years, with the Busby Babes, we want to be part of a successful European campaign again. One of my best nights was something we worked really hard towards.
“You can’t be given it because your name is such and such, you have to earn the right to be there. And I’ve always felt and believed in stepping out of your comfort zone, being afraid of failure, that spurs you on, living on the edge a little bit, and that wasn’t part of this.
“My players last season were excellent, when I talk about this fear of failure, they were afraid of not making Champions League because we were so many points behind. They pulled themselves together as a team, achieved third, a very good achievement, this year striving towards trophies, and we’re second.
“I back my team to be in the top in Europe. But I still think that fear of failure is helping us do that and being a sporting competitor as I am and my nature is not being handed this, we can’t be handed a place, that’s my opinion.
“I’m very happy all of the clubs have admitted their mistake, this was a bad idea, and the way it came out as well.”
TON OF CHECKS
Manchester United have beefed up their security at Carrington after fans broke into the training complex yesterday – and even boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had to prove who he was.
As the players arrived for drills today, two security guards greeted them at the entrance.
Even United gaffer Solskjaer was stopped by two burly high-vis-wearing men.
He appeared to be asked to remove his sunglasses to prove he really was the Red Devils leader.
Around 20 supporters stormed Carrington on Thursday to voice their anger at the club’s owners and their attempt to join the breakaway European Super League.
The group made it on to the first-team pitch and refused to leave until manager Solskjaer came and spoke to them.
RUUD NOT TO
It’s 20 years to the day since Ruud Van Nistelrooy joined Manchester United.
And as they say, the rest is history.

BAR-D MOVE
Cash-strapped Barcelona have released a bizarre statement saying they joined the European Super for ‘financial sustainability’ – despite spending almost £1BILLION on transfers in the last five seasons.

PITCH PERFECT
Manchester United missed out on hosting Euro 2020 matches due to summer pitch work while Wembley only gets one of Dublin’s games – England’s potential Last 16 tie.
The FA had made it clear they were open to staging extra Euros matches on English soil, echoing the offer from PM Boris Johnson.
That appeared to open up the chance of all four Dublin games coming to the north west, with Manchester the initial favourite.
But both Manchester City’s Etihad and United’s Old Trafford were ruled out when the clubs informed Uefa two weeks ago that they had already decided to major pitch renovation projects that will take much of the summer.
And while London remained a possibility, Sweden’s game with Slovakia is scheduled for Dublin on June 18 – the same day as England play Scotland.
Uefa’s aversion to staging major matches in any competitions in the same city on the same day ruled out any London ground.
More crucially, with all the other groups split over two venues, Uefa felt it would be unfair to make Sweden and Slovakia alone play their group matches in three different stadiums and cities.
Instead, Group E will now be split between St Petersburg and Seville. Munich finally met the Uefa demands and will keep its planned matches, including a last eight clash.
SMASH ‘N G-RAB
Manchester United defender Alex Telles could reportedly be heading to Juventus with Adrien Rabiot coming in the opposite direction.
The Brazilian left-back has failed to make an impression at Old Trafford since joining from Porto in October having featured in just seven Premier League games.
Telles has had to settle for a place on the bench due to Luke Shaw’s stunning form, with his last top-flight appearance coming on January 27.
And according to Calciomercato, the 28-year-old is keen to depart Old Trafford having grown frustrated by his lack of game time.
They state that Juventus are admirers of the player, and could look to bring him to Turin to compete with Alex Sandro.
It has been suggested that the Old Lady would be willing to exchange midfielder Rabiot, 26, for Telles.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is known to be a fan of the Frenchman having failed to lure him to the Theatre of Dreams last season.

PM TO THE RESCUE
Uefa chief Aleksander Ceferin has hailed PM Boris Johnson for helping save European football by leading the national ‘revolution’.
Johnson’s dramatic intervention and promises to bring in laws to block the Super League breakaway cut off the legs of the ‘dirty dozen’ plotters.
Ceferin said: “Boris Johnson is aware that football fans are from the working class.
“They live hard, and they spend the last money to watch football matches, which is their passion, relaxation, which is part of European culture, part of history.
“It seemed to me the reaction was very logical – he cared what happened to football, because that would affect the people, of course.”
Ceferin added: “In England there are so many fans and they love their club immensely. If the fans get angry, it is a kind of revolution. And no country can afford that.
“I find it very responsible from the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom to take a sharp stand on the side of the fans, not only because of the culture and love of football, but also because it ensures order in the country.
“We were in contact and I also spoke to his cabinet. They responded excellently.”
NO MOR SUPER LEAGUE
Super League bankrollers JP Morgan have pledged to learn from the breakaway debacle after revealing they misjudged the situation.
The investment bank were due to stump up a 3.5billion euros loan for the Dirty Dozen before the Big Six pulled out and the project crumbled.
A statement from a JP Morgan spokesperson read: “We clearly misjudged how this deal would be viewed by the wider football community and how it might impact them in the future.
“We will learn from this.”
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Manchester United fans are reportedly planning another Glazer Out protest after breaking into the training ground.
Around 20 supporters stormed Carrington on Thursday to voice their anger at the club’s owners and their attempt to join the breakaway European Super League.
Credit: Twitter @RedIssue
The group made it on to the first-team pitch and refused to leave until manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came and spoke to them.
And according to the Mirror, the anti-Glazer movement plot to make another stand a week on Sunday when United host fellow ESL rebels Liverpool at Old Trafford.
Thousands of fans will march from Manchester city centre to the stadium and make their voices heard beside the statues of Sir Matt Busby, Sir Bobby Charlton, Denis Law and George Best.
The report adds a joint-protest alongside Liverpool supporters – usually fierce rivals – has been canned now that both teams announced their withdrawal from the ESL.
The supporters who breached the security to get into the AON training complex on Thursday were part of the Manchester Education Committee – the same group that confronted Wayne Rooney in 2010 and targeted Ed Woodward’s home in January last year.
RON THE WAY HOME?
Cristiano Ronaldo is ‘tempted’ by a return to Manchester United, according to reports.
The Portuguese star became a legend at Old Trafford between 2003 and 2009, winning his first Ballon d’Or and Champions League gongs during his time in the North West.
Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Old TraffordCredit: Reuters
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, CR7 is growing unhappy at Juve, with a return to Old Trafford starting to cross his mind.
Ronaldo has failed to go beyond the quarter-finals of the Champions League since swapping Real Madrid for Juve in 2018.
And this season, under Andrea Pirlo, the Old Lady appear unlikely to even win Serie A – currently sat in fourth, 11 points behind Inter Milan.
In fact, Juve are only two points above fifth-placed Napoli, opening them up to the unthinkable possibility of not even qualifying for the Champions League.
Struggling financially due to Ronaldo’s wages and the effect of the coronavirus pandemic, Juventus could benefit from offloading the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
PROUD BRO
Phil Neville reckons brother Gary showed massive balls in becoming the first critic to slaughter the botched plans for the European Super League.
Proud Nev was digesting the fall-out from his debut as Inter Miami boss last Sunday when news of the chaos brewing filtered over to Florida.
He heard former Manchester United and England full-back Gary pull no punches by instantly blasting greedy Old Trafford chiefs and the rest of the snakes who wanted to rip football apart.
Neville, 44, told SunSport: “Watching my brother speak so passionately about the subject after the game when nobody really knew anything about it, the ins or outs or what the project was all about, he had the courage and bravery to stand up for what was right.
“He probably started the ball rolling and then in the next 24 to 48 hours later, common sense prevailed. The overriding feeling is that a group of people totally misread and had a lack of knowledge of what football means to people in England and Europe.
“Think about all the stances of the fans of the clubs who tried to break away, it made me really proud of where I have grown up.
“The entertainment levels aren’t the same and when you look back in history at the six clubs, their foundations come from working-class people and a group of people made the wrong decision.
“You have to accept their grave misunderstanding and make sure football is in a good place for the next 100 years.”
Credit: Getty
EDIN OFF
Boca Juniors are a step closer to snapping up Edinson Cavani with the striker reportedly maintaining his desire to leave Europe.
The 34-year-old has hit ten goals in his first and possibly only campaign at Old Trafford, ahead of his contract expiring in June.
Last month, SunSport revealed his desire to hold talks with the club and thrash out his future.
And rumblings of discontent have refused to go away with Cavani’s father asserting that he wants to depart Manchester.
According to Argentine outlet Depo, the player recently sat down with United and reiterated his plan to move on.
A return to South America is said to be Cavani’s wish, to bring him closer to his family.
Buenos Aires giants Boca Juniors have been linked with a deal and discussions with the club are described as positive.
OLE LOAD OF TROUBLE
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer enraged a group of Manchester United protestors by claiming hated owner Joel Glazer ‘loves this club’.
A group descended on the Red Devils’ Carrington training ground yesterday morning in protest at the Glazer family’s ownership and their attempts to break-away into a European Super League.
And they refused to leave the doors to the main reception until boss Solskjaer came out and engaged with them.
He did and they questioned him as to how he could ever trust the club’s co-chairman Joel Glazer ever again.
But Solskjaer jumped to his defence saying ‘Joel loves this club’. It was a statement met with derision with a number of protestors firing back saying ‘he doesn’t love this club he loves the money’.
Solskjaer, 48, was flanked by coach Michael Carrick and technical director Darren Fletcher as he spoke with the group. Midfielder Nemanja Matic was also close by.
During the exchanges, which lasted just over five minutes, it was pointed out to Solskjaer that back in 2005 he was a patron of protest group Shareholders United and voiced his opposition to the Glazers imminent takeover.
Credit: Reuters
GOOD MORNING RED DEVILS FANS
Ed Woodward quit as executive vice-chairman after being kept in the dark about the final plans for the European Super League.
Bruno Fernandes is ready to sign a new contract at Manchester United as long as Paul Pogba commits his future.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told anti-Glazer protesters to leave Carrington so they would not disrupt training.
Marcus Rashford is helping teach kids how to make proper food as he continues his fight against child food poverty.
United have been handed a boost in their bid to sign Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane with the French star facing the exit door.
Reaction continues to come in following the Glazers’ apology for the attempted breakaway.
The Red Devils’ hopes of signing Erling Haaland are fading after Borussia Dortmund insisted he will not leave this summer.
United will reportedly have to pay £10m if they are to sign West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.
MAJOR SHAKE-UP
Football bosses could be ORDERED to rip up their rulebook after the Government announced the launch of its “fan-led review” of the game.
In a huge move which comes off the back of PM Boris Johnson’s intervention into the Super League breakaway which featured Man United as one of the founding clubs, the entire structure of the English game is under scrutiny.
That could see:

Ownership rules questioned and changed, even looking at the legitimacy of foreign billionaires taking over Prem clubs — and deciding if English football should seek to copy the German system.
 New financial rules drafted to prevent the issues that led to the collapse of Bury.
 Enforced alterations to the flow of money through the entire football pyramid, from the Prem to the grass-roots game.
 Fans given a proper say in the way the game is run.
A Government- appointed independent regulator, with power to bring the FA, Prem and EFL to account.

Credit: No 10 Downing Street / BEEM
NO CAPITAL GAINS
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has revealed he snubbed a move to Chelsea when he joined Leeds.
The ex-England star moved to Elland Road in 2000 but had the chance to seal a transfer to the Blues.
The BT Sport pundit told the Eddie Hearn: No Passion, No Point podcast: “I could’ve gone to Chelsea – I got a phone call just as I was going to Leeds.
“I just said to the geezers, ‘there’s no point even trying to pitch the idea to me. I need to leave London. I’ve got all my mates, I go out every weekend. I can go anywhere in town – I’m living a distraction.’”
Ferdinand added: “Going to Leeds was getting me away from my mates, who were good boys, but we were getting in trouble and going out too much.
“I didn’t have a hand break, everything was full throttle. The best decision was looking at myself and moving to Leeds when I did. Best thing I done.”
Credit: Eamonn and James Clarke
ED’S GONE
Ed Woodward quit as Manchester United’s executive vice-chairman because he was kept in the dark about the final plans for the European Super League.
Woodward is stepping down at the end of the year and SunSport understands he resigned because he could not support the Glazers’ plans for the breakaway league.
Credit: PA
Woodward had made his mind up on Monday morning he could not be associated with the Super League and took swift action.
The Prem’s ‘Big Six’ were set to join the new league plot before it all unravelled in the space of 48 hours.
Woodward joined United following the Glazers’ takeover in 2005 and replaced chief executive David Gill in 2013.
TAKE ZLAT
Former Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic is staying in Italy after signing a new contract with AC Milan.
The iconic star has reportedly agreed a new one-year extension with the Italian club.
Ibrahimovic announced his return from retirement for Sweden recently as the 39-year-old prepares to lead their attack at this summer’s rescheduled European Championship.
Credit: Reuters
BIG SAM FEE
Manchester United will reportedly have to pay £10m if they want to bring Sam Johnstone back to the club.
The West Brom goalkeeper has impressed for the Baggies and United are interested in signing him.
Credit: AFP
Johnstone left United in 2018 but has been linked with a return after performing consistently for Sam Allardyce’s side.
Tottenham and West Ham are also keen on the shot stopper and a summer move looks likely if West Brom fail to avoid relegation.
GREAT SCOT
Sir Alex Ferguson was moved to tears when Scotland qualified for the Euros.
The legendary former Manchester United boss got emotional after watching Ryan Christie’s post-match interview after ending their long wait to reach a major tournament with victory over Serbia on penalties.
NINTCHDBPICT000643642052Credit: The Sun
Ferguson said: “When Serbia scored in the last minute I thought ‘Oh Christ Almighty, extra-time, no chance’. But they saw it through and dug their heels in.
“But Davie Marshall’s save, and he didn’t even know whether they had qualified or not, and everyone is jumping on top of him.
“And then the Ryan Christie interview. Christ, I was crying when I saw him crying. It was fantastic. You talk about a boost to the country – it was fantastic.
“I’m sure half the country would have watched that night. We will always remember Davie Marshall’s reaction and Ryan Christie’s interview.”
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