Man Utd transfer news

BRUNO FERNANDES is ready to sign a new Manchester United contract, but only if Paul Pogba does.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…
STUCK IN THE MIDDLE
How Manchester United have looked with and without Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes this season.

EXCLUSIVE BY NEIL CUSTIS AND RICHARD MORIARTY
Bruno Fernandes will commit himself to Manchester United — but only if Paul Pogba does the same.
Fernandes sees Pogba’s future as key if United are going to make up the gap to Manchester City, with the Frenchman out of contract in 2022.
SunSport revealed on March 10 how the club had approached Fernandes over a new double-your-money five-year contract worth £200,000 a week.
But he did not want to enter talks until he saw the club’s ambition in the transfer market this summer, with Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland and Jadon Sancho targets.
Now he wants assurances over Pogba’s future too as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer plans for an assault on the title next season.
Bruno Fernandes is waiting to see if Paul Pogba stays at Man Utd before committing himself
EXCLUSIVE BY MARTIN LIPTON
Celtic and Rangers are wanted to join a BRITISH League as part of the fall-out of the failed Euro breakaway plot.
While the Big Six led the humiliating retreat from the Super League debacle, they remain convinced that reform of the Prem is essential.
Top of the list of plans being actively discussed is an offer to the two Glasgow giants to come south of Hadrian’s Wall.
Celtic and Rangers would jump at the chance to take a slice of the Prem cake, while their inclusion would also see a spike in interest from fans across the world, sponsors and broadcasters.
One club source said: “Whether or not the Super League was going to happen, we all feel that the Premier League has to be changed and improved.
“It is time we opened it up to Rangers and Celtic. That would make sense for everyone.”
Celtic and Rangers are being lined up to join a British league
FROM SUNSPORT’S KEN LAWRENCE
Furious fans have refused to accept grovelling European Super League apologies from the billionaire American owners of Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.
Powerful supporters group Spirit of Shankly blasted: “These crocodile tears will not wash.
“We have always asked for honesty, integrity and transparency from club owners FSG, but the arrogance and deception they have shown behind this money-grab is frightening, but not surprising.
“We have noted John W Henry’s apology, but this PR exercise is too little, too late.
“Our owners have thrown everyone under the bus, supporters, manager, players and staff, and humiliated themselves through sheer greed and arrogance.
“This debacle must be a catalyst for real change, not an exercise in damage limitation.
“We need a fundamental change in football governance, one that is fair for the whole football pyramid, not just the rapacious elite.”
Football fans have rejected apologies from American owners including John W Henry
RAPH AND READY
Chelsea have reportedly joined Man Utd in the race for Raphael Varane.
Bild claims the Real Madrid defender is on Thomas Tuchel’s shortlist as he approaches the final year of his contract.
The Red Devils have been long-time fans of Varane, believed to be available for £50million.
But Chelsea have now entered the running and are set to submit an enquiry for the World Cup winner.
Chelsea will rival Man Utd for Raphael Varane
ERL GREY
Premier League target Erling Haaland is set to stay at Borussia Dortmund this summer.
That’s according to sporting director Michael Zorc.
Haaland has been linked with Man United, Man City and Chelsea after another stunning season in Germany.
But Zorc is confident Haaland is staying put regardless of whether Dortmund qualify for the Champions League.
Zorc said: “No matter where we end up, Erling will continue to play with us.”
Borussia Dortmund are confident Erling Haaland will stay put this summer
EU WHAT?
The chaos caused by the Super League shambles meant far-reaching changes to the existing European competitions passed by almost unnoticed.
Uefa rubber-stamped its proposals, backed by national associations, for a major revamp to start from the 2024-25 season and to run for at least nine years.
Check out the Champions League changes below…
How the revamped tournament will look
PS-GLEE
PSG chief Nasser Al-Khelaifi has been named the new European Club Association chairman.
He takes over from Juventus supremo Andrea Agnelli, one of the European Super League ringleaders.
Agnelli resigned from the post after Sunday’s controversial announcement.
And Al-Khelaifi has been voted in as the man to replace him.
Breaking: Paris Saint-Germain chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi appointed chairman of European Club Association – replacing Andrea Agnelli who quit on Sunday— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) April 21, 2021

CLAUD NEIN
Claudio Ranieri has launched a scathing attack on the European Super League – insisting a similar competition would have excluded his title-winning Leicester side.
Slamming the Premier League clubs who signed up, he said: “My Leicester team would have not played in Europe under such a system. 
“It would have been a glaring injustice, and an insult to the values of sport.
“These people must be kidding us. We finished first in the richest and most competitive league in the world.
“But this European league would have told us: ‘Sorry, you can’t come in – you don’t have the right CV.’
“It is madness, and a betrayal of one of the basic fundamentals of sport – meritocracy.
“The beauty of football lies in the fact that the poorest clubs can always beat the stronger ones.”
Claudio Ranieri has slammed the Prem’s Big Six over the European Super League
RAM RAID
European Super League plotter Florentino Perez admits Man Utd target Sergio Ramos could leave Real Madrid when his contract expires this summer.
Perez explained: “I love him very much, but we are in a very bad situation. We have to be realistic.
“I did not say that Ramos is not going to continue. We are thinking about finishing this season, then we will see what happens.
“A lot of things can happen. First we are going to finish this season. We are talking to many players and many are voluntarily lowering their salary.
“Some have already lowered it, specifically the two who have left, Luka Jovic and Martin Odegaard. 
“Last year Ramos accepted. This year he is in a different situation.”
Real Madrid admit Man Utd-linked Sergio Ramos could leave this summer
WHERE THERE’S A WILL
Prince William has had his say after England’s ‘Top Six’ withdrew from the European Super League.
The Duke of Cambridge, who previously expressed concern at the plans, tweeted: “I’m glad the united voice of football fans has been heard and listened to.
“It is now really important that we use this moment to secure the future health of the game at all levels.
“As President of the FA, I’m committed to playing my part in that work.”
I’m glad the united voice of football fans has been heard and listened to. It is now really important that we use this moment to secure the future health of the game at all levels. As President of the FA, I’m committed to playing my part in that work. W— The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@KensingtonRoyal) April 21, 2021

RON NOT ON WAY
Man United legend Cristiano Ronaldo will not be returning to Real Madrid from Juventus, according to disgraced Los Blancos president Florentino Perez.
He said: “They are very good players. Lionel Messi and Cristiano. It’s a historical thing.
“Cristiano’s return? No. He has a contract with Juventus. 
“But it doesn’t make sense for him to come back. I love him a lot, he has given us a lot.”
Real Madrid are not looking to re-sign Cristiano Ronaldo
GLAZE OVER
Man Utd chief Joel Glazer has written an apology letter to fans over the disastrous European Super League.
It read: “We got it wrong and we want to show that we can put things right.
“Although the wounds are raw and it will take time for the scars to heal, I am personally committed to rebuilding trust with our fans and learning from the message you delivered with such conviction.
“In seeking to create a more stable foundation for the game, we failed to show enough respect for its deep-rooted traditions and for that we are sorry.
“This is the world’s greatest football club and we apologise unreservedly for the unrest caused during these past few days.”
Joel Glazer has apologised for the European Super League plans
BALLS OUT
Boris Johnson insisted today that an investigation into football governance WILL still go ahead – despite the collapse of the European Super League last night.
He said at PMQs today: “It’s entirely right that (former sports minister Tracey Crouch) will do a root and branch investigation into the governance of football and into what we can do to promote the role of fans in that governance.
“I think that one of the most worrying features about the European Super League proposals is that they would have taken clubs that take their names from great, famous British towns and cities.
“English towns and cities, and turned them just into global brands with no relation to the fans, to the communities that gave them life and that give them the most love and support.”
Boris Johnson insisted a review of football will still go ahead
FIXTURE SWAP
Manchester United’s games against Liverpool and Aston Villa have been confirmed in May.

SUMMER LOVIN’
Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly in talks to battle it out in two pre-season friendlies this summer.
The two humiliated clubs – who have pulled out from competing in the European Super League – both face the possibility of being unable to travel for overseas tours.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, both teams could miss out on playing abroad if travel restrictions remain in place.
And according to the Mirror, United and Liverpool are in negotiations over staging lucrative friendlies ahead of the 2021-2022 season.
They claim that a first meeting could take place at Old Trafford in late July, before Anfield hosts the second clash in early August.
It has also been suggested that the games could be used as test events for capacity crowds ahead of the new Premier League campaign which starts on August 14.
Reported by the Daily Mail, Jurgen Kopp’s side are not planning on competing in any friendlies abroad in the summer.
AL OVER
Manchester United appear to have missed out on David Alaba after it was reported he had agreed a five-year deal with Real Madrid.
Chelsea were also linked with the Austrian who revealed he will quit Bayern Munich after 13 years this summer.
Sky reports Alaba has signed on at the Bernabeu until 2026.
The 28-year-old previously expressed his desire for a new challenge and is thought to have set his heart on a move to Spain.
BULLY BOYS
Former Manchester United player and coach Nicky Butt slammed the ‘worst case of bullying from powerful people’ and said any apologies are irrelevant after the Super League debacle.
🗣️ “It is the worst case of bullying from powerful people”Former Man Utd player and coach Nicky Butt doesn’t expect fans to trust clubs for a long time after the Super League attempts pic.twitter.com/Sd0W9piUb1— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 21, 2021

VICTORY FOR FANS
Culture secretary Oliver Dowden heralded the crumbling of Super League as a ‘real victory for fans’.

RETURN OF THE MAC
Glazers out, McGregor in?
Hey guys, I’m thinking about buying Manchester United! What do you think?— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) April 20, 2021

ON BRAND
Brandon Williams bid a hasty retreat after accidentally revelling in the European Super League’s end with a post of Liverpool celebrations.
Fans were quick to point out that the Manchester United defender had focused his thanks on his club’s bitter rivals.
An Instagram post of Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League bus parade went online to his one million followers on Tuesday night.
It was captioned: “To you all 👏🏼 Everyone is equal⚽️.”
It did not take long for 20-year-old Williams to swap out the picture for one of his own fans.
And an image of United fans cheering on the streets was put up with a similar caption, which now emphasised that ‘we are ALL equal’.

HIT IN THE POCKET!
All of the Big Six have reportedly lost £8million after signing up to the Super League.
The English clubs all rapidly pulled out of the widely slammed new competition yesterday just 48 hours after it was announced.
The Mail reports all the ‘founder’ members had bought around £8m worht of equity stakes.
And the clubs are also set to face financial penalties after signing contracts that committed them for three years.
NO THANKS!
Gary Neville revealed he took his Manchester United medals out of the club museum four years ago.
His revelation came in response to a tweet that claimed former Red Devils captain Martin Buchan had asked for his medals back due to his outrage at the club signing up to the Super League.

‘EAT THEMSELVES’
Gary Neville hopes the six rebel Premier League clubs are fined by £100million each by Real Madrid and they end up ‘eating themselves’ in the messy fallout from the European Super League.
And fans are calling on the so-called ‘Big Six’ to be hit with a punishment within the English game.
Neville was one of the strongest voices condemning Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham and the two Manchester clubs for signing up to the 20-team breakaway franchise league.
Fans, players, managers and pundits together made their fury known and all six made a sheepish U-turn on Tuesday night to withdraw from the ESL – less than 48 hours after their public statements signalling their intentions.
But Neville still wants to see the Premier League sides made to pay for their initial plans which would likely have decimated the rest of English football.
The former United and England right-back told Sky Sports: “Florentino Perez might have them on a £100m fine and I hope he does.
“I hope Perez has got them on a massive fine to withdraw the lot of them and they basically end up eating each other.”
COMM ON!
Manchester United legend Gary Neville slammed the club’s Super League leaving statement as ‘quite possibly the worst communication I’ve ever seen in my life!’

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ED WOODWARD has sensationally resigned as Man Utd executive vice-chairman with Man Utd confirming they are out of the European Super League project. It follows a monumental day where Man City and Chelsea had earlier left the scheme.
Club legends Sir Alex Ferguson and David Beckham had earlier come out and slammed the ESL plans.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
THE FALL OF THE ESL
Man City and Chelsea sparked the collapse of the cursed European Super League in a glorious victory for people power.
The two Prem giants were the first of the hated Big Six to wave the white flag and condemn the £4.6billion breakaway to an early grave.
They were later followed by Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham and Manchester United, while Spanish clubs Barcelona and Atletico Madrid also pulled out less than two days after announcing their despised scheme.
City issued a statement just hours after boss Pep Guardiola had ridiculed the plans, branding them “not sport”.
It read: “City have formally enacted the procedures to withdraw from the group developing plans for a European Super League.”
Within hours Liverpool issued their own statement which read: “Our involvement in proposed plans to form a European Super League has been discontinued.”
It followed pressure from Reds skipper Jordan Henderson and the rest of the first team squad who tweeted: “We don’t like it and we don’t want it to happen.”
United, who with Liverpool were chief ringleaders of the plot, issued their own statement: “We have listened carefully to the reaction from our fans, the UK government and other key stakeholders.”
Arsenal and Spurs then issued their own grovelling apologies with the Gunners insisting they had only signed up so they were not “left behind”.
Arsenal said: “The response from supporters in recent days has given us time for further reflection and deep thought.
“It was never our intention to cause such distress.
“We didn’t make the right decision here, which we fully accept.
“We made a mistake, and we apologise for it.”
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy added: “We regret the anxiety and upset caused by the ESL proposal.
“We should like to thank all those supporters who presented their considered opinions.”
The evening began with hundreds of protesting Chelsea fans blocked roads around Stamford Bridge which led to the delay of last night’s 0-0 draw with Brighton.
Blues legend Petr Cech had to calm fans and told them: “Give us time.”
Then boss Thomas Tuchel announced: “I trust my club to take the right decisions.
“The owners know this game is about competition.”
Before the game, Blues bosses were preparing to draft their letter of resignation, while City had already told Super League bosses they were out.
Wembley chiefs, backing the Prem and supported by PM Boris Johnson, had promised the other 14 top-flight clubs they would refuse permission for the Big Six to join the rebel league.
Former England skipper Gary Lineker rejoiced: “We’ve got our ball back”.
The FA and Uefa welcomed the news after English football’s ruling body earlier threatened not to sanction any of the Super League games on English soil.
They said: “It was a proposition that could have divided our game but instead it has unified us.
“We would like to thank the fans for their influential voice during this time.”
Earlier, former Prem boss Richard Scudamore was spotted going into the League’s Paddington HQ ahead of a virtual club meeting which saw Spurs chairman Daniel Levy castigated despite admitting to being “shaken” by the national backlash.
WRIGHT-ING ON THE WALL
Ian Wright has called for Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke to LEAVE the club.
Arsenal joined the other five rebel Premier League clubs in pulling out of the proposed European Super League.
Ed Woodward announced he will step down as Manchester United’s chief executive at the end of the year.
But Arsenal fans have called for Kroenke’s exit – and have the backing of club legend Wright.

THEY THINK ITS ALL OVER
All six English clubs have now quit the hated European Super League in a massive victory for fan power.
Old Trafford chief executive Ed Woodward also resigned, while Arsenal, Spurs, United and Liverpool quit the £4.6billion project.
Chelsea were the first to do so, with Manchester City following after.
Massive protests by Chelsea supporters outside Stamford Bridge last night delayed their game against Brighton.

ARSENAL CONFIRM ESL EXIT
A statement read: “The last few days have shown us yet again the depth of feeling our supporters around the world have for this great club and the game we love.
“We needed no reminding of this but the response from supporters in recent days has given us time for further reflection and deep thought.
“It was never our intention to cause such distress, however when the invitation to join the Super League came, while knowing there were no guarantees, we did not want to be left behind to ensure we protected Arsenal and its future.
“As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League. We made a mistake, and we apologise for it.
“We know it will take time to restore your faith in what we are trying to achieve here at Arsenal but let us be clear that the decision to be part of the Super League was driven by our desire to protect Arsenal, the club you love, and to support the game you love through greater solidarity and financial stability.
“Stability is essential for the game to prosper and we will continue to strive to bring the security the game needs to move forward.
“The system needs to be fixed. We must work together to find solutions which protect the future of the game and harness the extraordinary power football has to get us on the edge of our seats.
“Finally, we know this has been hugely unsettling at the end of what has been an incredibly difficult year for us all.
“Our aim is always to make the right decisions for this great football club, to protect it for the future and to take us forward. We didn’t make the right decision here, which we fully accept.
“We have heard you.”
As a result of listening to you and the wider football community over recent days we are withdrawing from the proposed Super League. We made a mistake, and we apologise for it.— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 20, 2021

SPURS CONFIRM ESL EXIT
A statement read: “We can confirm that we have formally commenced procedures to withdraw from the group developing proposals for a European Super League (ESL).”
Chairman Daniel Levy said: “We regret the anxiety and upset caused by the ESL proposal. We felt it was important that our club participated in the development of a possible new structure that sought to better ensure financial fair play and financial sustainability whilst delivering significantly increased support for the wider football pyramid.
“We believe that we should never stand still and that the sport should constantly review competitions and governance to ensure the game we all love continues to evolve and excite fans around the world.
“We should like to thank all those supporters who presented their considered opinions.”
We can confirm that we have formally commenced procedures to withdraw from the group developing proposals for a European Super League (ESL).#THFC ⚪️ #COYS— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 20, 2021

SPUR OF THE MOMENT
Following the news Chelsea, Man City, United and Liverpool have also pulled out of the proposed European Super League, Tottenham and Arsenal are set to follow.
It would mean all six Premier League sides who announced plans to move into the rebel breakaway ESL would have cancelled plans.
The Athletic report Arsenal are no longer looking to be involved, and according to Football.London, neither are Spurs.
Understand Spurs have begun the process to withdraw from the Super League.— Alasdair Gold (@AlasdairGold) April 20, 2021

MAN DOWN
Manchester United have also confirmed they will no longer pursue a move into the proposed European Super League.
It comes following the news City, Liverpool and Chelsea were also pulling out of the rebel breakaway ESL season.
A United statement read: “Manchester United will not be participating in the European Super League.
“We have listened carefully to the reaction from our fans, the UK government and other key stakeholders.
“We remain committed to working with others across the football community to come up with sustainable solutions to the long-term challenges facing the game.”
We will not be participating in the European Super League.#MUFC— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 20, 2021

POOL OUT
Liverpool have confirmed they will no longer pursue a move into the proposed European Super League.
It comes following the news Manchester City and Chelsea were both also pulling out of the rebel breakaway ESL season.
Liverpool’s statement read: “Liverpool Football Club can confirm that our involvement in proposed plans to form a European Super League has been discontinued.
“In recent days, the club has received representations from various key stakeholders, both internally and externally, and we would like to thank them for their valuable contributions.”
CITY BREAK
Man City were the last of the initial six Prem clubs and the 12th in all to sign up to aplan hatched by Real Madrid, Liverpool and Manchester United and funded by US investment giant JP Morgan.
Like Chelsea, who are in the process of preparing their withdrawal documents, the Etihad outfit were understood to feel they had no option other than to join the breakaway.
That was despite both clubs’ hierarchies harbouring doubts over the project.
But the fear of missing out on a huge tranche of the initial £3bn joining pot and minimum £130m per year on offer saw both clubs take a bite out of the carrot.
City’s concerns have grown over the past 24 hours, with the backlash intensifying as fans groups castigated the rebel clubs.
FOOTBALL SAVED
The European Super League lies in tatters this evening as Chelsea and Manchester City QUIT with Arsenal set to follow.
The FA, Uefa and Prime Minister Boris Johnson joined in the chorus of joy as ESL plans crumbled, while Manchester United confirmed executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward is QUITTING “at the end of 2021”.
It is also believed that Atletico Madrid have pulled out of the 12-club rebel league, while Barcelona have said they will put the proposal to their fans before deciding.
In what will be a potentially fatal blow to the £4.6billion scheme, Man City chiefs decided they could no longer be party to the plans that have rocked football to its very foundations.
And in a brief statement, the club confirmed: “Manchester City Football Club can confirm that it has formally enacted the procedures to withdraw from the group developing plans for a European Super League.”
Uefa president, Aleksander Ceferin welcomed City “back to the European football family”.
WHAT A TONIC
Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher have taunted the European Super League by TOASTING its spectacular collapse.
Fans’ mass protests brought the 12-club, closed-shop league crashing down as suddenly it was announced just three days.
And Manchester United legend Neville was followed by ex-Liverpool hero Jamie Carragher in posting joyous photos on social media as they drinked to the ESL’s sudden demise.
Both particularly condemned their own club’s owners, with “disgusted” Nev one of the most outspoken critics of the “criminal act”.
Fans from all across the country quickly lapped up the duo’s celebrations of the Tuesday night U-turn.

RED DANGER
Share prices in the Red Devils have CRASHED amid Tuesday night’s European Super League chaos.
Sky Sports reporter Bryan Swanson revealed that United’s share prices have gone done dramatically.
Shares were down 6.60 per cent at 16.12 USD this afternoon.

ENDFIELD
Liverpool owner John Henry has been warned there’s no way back for him by Graeme Souness.
And the ex-Reds player and manager warned that the relationship between the board and Anfield faithful will be ‘damaged forever’.
Souness said on Sky Sports: “It’s been so underhanded, these are relationships that will take some mending.
“The biggest one is not chairman to chairman – it’s chairman to supporters.
“I know what Scousers are like. The will not forgive John Henry for this. I can’t see how he gets back from this.”
SIMPLY DE BEST
Kevin de Bruyne speaks out following the news Man City will walk away from the proposed European Super League.

HEADS WILL ROLL
Ed Woodward resigning from Manchester United is ‘just the beginning’ of European Super League fallout, Graeme Souness reckons.
Souness thinks there will be more casualties given how bosses had kept their plans quiet for months before Sunday’s bombshell announcement.
He said: “For six to nine months, they’ve been playing the game knowing that next season it won’t apply to them.
“These chairmen have been going to meetings knowing their intention was to pull out of the Premier League.
“It’s outrageous. How do they correct that situation? How can they ever go to one of these meetings ever again and sit there and be taken seriously?
“Ed Woodward is just the beginning.”
“Woodward was just the beginning. Lots of them have to go.”Graeme Souness questions whether the senior figures at the ‘Big Six’ clubs can be ‘taken seriously’ at Premier League meetings after they were prepared to join a breakaway Super League…💬 pic.twitter.com/EE3cOVCwRN— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 20, 2021

STERLING JOB
Raheem Sterling has reacted to the news Man City officially confirmed their intentions to walk away from the proposed European Super League.

CITY OF LOVE
UEFA President, Aleksander Ceferin welcomed the withdrawal of Manchester City from the breakaway closed league project.
He said: “I am delighted to welcome City back to the European football family.
“They have shown great intelligence in listening to the many voices – most notably their fans – that have spelled out the vital benefits that the current system has for the whole of European football; from the world beating Champions League final right down to a young player’s first coaching session at a grassroots club.
“As I said at the UEFA Congress, it takes courage to admit a mistake but I have never doubted that they had the ability and common sense to make that decision.
“City are a real asset for the game and I am delighted to be working with them for a better future for the European game.”
NO AVERAGE JOE
Manchester United’s co-chairman Joe Glazer has spoken out after Ed Woodward’s depature from the club.
He said: “Ed Woodward has served the club with great distinction.
“On behalf of everyone at United I would like to place on record our sincere thanks for his tireless work and dedication.
“His contribution to the club has been massive, and he will always be welcome at Old Trafford as a part of the Manchester United family.”

CITY BREAK
Manchester City have officially confirmed their intentions to walk away from the proposed European Super League.
Manchester City Football Club can confirm that it has formally enacted the procedures to withdraw from the group developing plans for a European Super League.

ED WOODWARD’S STATEMENT IN FULL
Ed Woodward said:“I am extremely proud to have served United and it has been an honour to work for the world’s greatest football club for the past 16 years.
“The club is well positioned for the future and it will be difficult to walk away at the end of the year.
“I will treasure the memories from my time at Old Trafford, during a period when we won the Europa League, the FA Cup and the EFL Cup. I am proud of the regeneration of the club’s culture and our return to the Manchester United way of playing.
“We have invested more than £1bn in the squad during my time here and I am particularly delighted with the progress the players have made under the astute leadership of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his coaching team in the last two years.
“I am sure that with the changes we have made on-field and to the coaching and football staff in recent years this great club will soon be lifting silverware again. It deserves to. 
“I desperately wanted the club to win the Premier League during my tenure and I am certain the foundations are in place for us to win it back for our passionate fans.
“Our world-famous academy is flourishing again, with 34 players progressing into the first team since 2013, and it has been a pleasure to watch talents such as Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood and Axel Tuanzebe flourish in the first team environment.
“In the years to come the club’s production line of young talent will continue to push established first team players for their places. That competition bodes well for the future.
“We have also established Manchester United women and their progress is further evidence of the demand for success at this great club.
“The last 16 months have brought so many unique challenges and the club’s work in the community and around the world during the Covid-19 pandemic has been heroic.
“The financial impact on football clubs has been severe, but United have been one of the most robust and resilient in the face of extraordinary financial pressures. 
“I would like to thank United’s passionate fans for their support during the good and bad times. I know this has been a challenging period in our history, but your support for the team has never, ever been in doubt.
“Finally, it has been a pleasure to work with so many magnificent, talented and hard-working people.”
FIRE BURNING
Sevilla appear to be relishing in the madness and fallout of the proposed European Super League.
The Spaniards – who had confirmed the would not be participating in the rebel ESL – posted a GIF to poke fun at the situation.

JOHN TOP OF IT
Prime Minster Boris Johnson hailed Chelsea and Man City after it was reported they have decided to walk away from the proposed European Super League.
Johnson tweeted: “The decision by Chelsea and Manchester City is – if confirmed – absolutely the right one and I commend them for it.
“I hope the other clubs involved in the European Super League will follow their lead.”
The decision by Chelsea and Manchester City is – if confirmed – absolutely the right one and I commend them for it.I hope the other clubs involved in the European Super League will follow their lead.— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 20, 2021

LIVERPOOL SPEAK OUT
The Premier League champions, through Jordan Henderson, have voiced their opposition against the proposed European Super League.
He wrote: “We don’t like it and we don’t want it to happen.
“This is our collective position.
“Our commitment to this football club and its supporters are absolute and unconditional.
“You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

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MARCUS RASHFORD has come out AGAINST the European Super League on social media.The Man Utd star becomes the biggest name player from one of the 12 participating clubs to condemn the plans backed by the Red Devils owners.
Meanwhile Premier League clubs are considering EXPELLING United and the other five clubs who signed up to the new competition.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
HOW THE PROPOSED ESL WILL WORK

ICYMI
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has reportedly called an emergency meeting between all Premier League captains.
The Mail reports the England midfielder has taken the action as the fall-out from the breakaway Super League continues.
The 30-year-old will chair meeting with club reps from sides in and out of the breakaway.
Henderson previously helped lead players in their response to the crisis caused by the pandemic.

MORE ON LEVY
Another club boss added: “Daniel can paint himself as a victim but nobody was buying that at all. It’s too late for that.”
Richard Masters and the Prem leadership, as well as the clubs outside the Big Six, were left bolstered by a firm vow from PM Boris Johnson that he will bring in urgent legislation that would prevent the Six from joining the £4.6billion scheme.
That meeting involved representatives of Arsenal, Spurs and Manchester United supporters’ trusts and the Football Supporters Association, FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, as well as Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden.
Johnson is understood to have made it abundantly clear to the meeting that he would simply not allow the breakaway to take place.
WHO ARE YA?
Manchester United are owned by the Glazers but who are the other people behind the breakaway Super League.

‘VIGOROUSLY REJECT PLANS’
The Premier League have released a statement announcing all 14 clubs ‘unanimously and vigorously rejected the plans’ for the European Super League.
A crisis meeting was held this morning with all top-flight clubs except the ‘big six’ who want to form a breakaway league. And the Prem reassured everything in their power will be done to prevent the plans from going ahead.
It adds how they will also hold shareholders to account for their role in the farce while hinting at bans.
The statement read: “The Premier League, alongside The FA, met with clubs today to discuss the immediate implications of the Super League proposal.
“The 14 clubs at the meeting unanimously and vigorously rejected the plans for the competition.
“The Premier League is considering all actions available to prevent it from progressing, as well as holding those Shareholders involved to account under its rules.
“The League will continue to work with key stakeholders including fan groups, Government, UEFA, The FA, EFL, PFA and LMA to protect the best interests of the game and call on those clubs involved in the proposed competition to cease their involvement immediately.
“The Premier League would like to thank fans and all stakeholders for the support they have shown this week on this significant issue.The reaction proves just how much our open pyramid and football community means to people.”
MARC MY WORDS
Marcus Rashford has tweeted a powerful image of the Old Trafford stands showing a banner with the Matt Busby quote: “Football is nothing without fans.”
The England man shared the photo in the wake of the hugely controversial Super League breakaway with Manchester United one of the ‘founders’.

CON JOB
Manchester United fan Connor Kennedy showed his fury at the club joining the league outside Old Trafford.
Credit: PA
BACK INVOLVED
Eric Bailly is back in Manchester United training after testing positive Covid-19.
Eric Bailly is back in training after recovering from COVID-19 ⬇#MUFC— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 20, 2021

CANT BELIEVE IT
Eric Cantona has had his say on the Super League – power to the fans!

FANS FIRST
Boris Johnson today held a crisis summit with football bosses over the European Super League and backed Prem bosses to kick out the ‘Big Six’ if they want to.
The PM vowed not to stand by “while a small handful of owners create a closed shop” and promised to back fans all the way.
PM vowed to do all he could to stop it from going ahead in a meeting with top footie bosses.
Downing Street said today the PM “expressed his solidarity with football fans and agreed they must always be at the heart of any decisions about the future of the game.”
They added: “He reiterated his unwavering support for the football authorities and confirmed they have the government’s full backing to take whatever action necessary to put a stop to these plans.
“All attendees agreed that action was necessary to protect the fairness and open competition we expect to see in football, and to uphold the fundamental principle that any club should have the chance to play and win against the biggest players in the game.
“The Prime Minister confirmed the government will not stand by while a small handful of owners create a closed shop.
“He was clear that no action is off the table and the government is exploring every possibility, including legislative options, to ensure these proposals are stopped.”
TIME TO CHANGE YOUR MIND
Uefa President Aleksander Ceferin today made a personal plea to the Prem Big Six to admit to their “mistake” and recant the decision to sign up to a breakaway Super League.
In a remarkable direct statement to Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs, United and City, Ceferin’s address to the Uefa Congress in Montreux urged the six to reflect on the damage they were on the verge of dealing to English and world football and to the fans who “bleed themselves dry” for their clubs.
Ceferin, who branded the owners of the rebel 12 as turning their backs on the heritage and integrity of football, recognises Real Madrid and Juventus are now too far gone to come back into the fold.
But while Liverpool and United were the two English ringleaders, the Slovenian clearly feels an emotional appeal could yet bring a U-turn.
Ceferin said: “I would like to address the owners of some English clubs. 
“Gentlemen, you have made a huge mistake. Some will say it is greed, others disdain, arrogance, flippancy or complete ignorance of England’s football culture. Actually, it doesn’t matter.
“What matters is that there is still time to change your mind. Everyone makes mistakes in life. English fans deserve to have you correct your mistake. They deserve respect.”
Credit: Reuters
BECK OFF BILLIONAIRES
David Beckham has lashed out at European Super League plans and blasted: “Football is in danger.”
Former Manchester United star Becks took to Instagram to demand the game we love is protected.
Inter Miami owner David Beckham spoke out on the Super League
The 45-year-old wrote on his Instagram: “I’m someone who loves football.
“It has been my life for as long as I can remember. I loved it from when I was a young child as a fan, and I’m still a fan now.
“As a player and now as an owner I know that our sport is nothing without the fans. We need football to be for everyone. We need football to be fair and we need competitions based on merit.
“Unless we protect these values the game we love is in danger…”
SUPER LEAGUE LATEST
Cracks are ‘starting to appear’ in the European Super League plans with two Premier League clubs ‘losing nerve’ after the furious fan backlash.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have cancelled an all-staff meeting scheduled for Tuesday to explain the club’s ESL plans.
The Reds were joined by Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal and the two Manchester clubs signing up for the new closed-shop breakaway franchise.
As founding members, they would be guaranteed involvement every season for 23 years with huge financial gain while abandoning the English game.
The remaining ‘angry and dismayed’ 14 Premier League clubs are meeting today to discuss how to deal with the other six – and could even order them to quit the division.
And now, according to the Daily Mail, seeds of doubt are creeping in with two of the six top-flight English rebels ‘close to losing their nerve’.
It is thought their support of the proposed ESL is ‘wavering’ – although it is unclear whether that will mean a U-turn in their plans.
GARY ON THE CHARGE
Gary Neville is continuing his call for people to pressurise the breakaway Big Six.
Joel Glazer won’t turn easily! Jurgen Klopp and the senior players could turn FSGMan City most likely to crack. This isn’t for them! The other 3 will follow the lead of others— Gary Neville (@GNev2) April 20, 2021

WAYNE’S WORLD
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney called on fans to not ‘jump the gun’ on the breakaway Super League.
“The people in charge of these clubs are not stupid”#MUFC legend Wayne Rooney says clubs and fans shouldn’t ‘jump the gun’ and should wait to see what happens with the new European Super League pic.twitter.com/bgZ4PLcEdR— The Sun Football ⚽ (@TheSunFootball) April 19, 2021

SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED
Manchester United can’t leave the breakaway Super League even if they change their mind, according to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.
The Super League’s chairman told El Chiringuito: “The contract of the Super League is binding.
“Nobody can leave, we will work all together.
“All the clubs signed the contracts last Saturday, there’s no problem.”
YOUS PLEASE
Manchester United and Liverpool have entered the race sign Sevilla forward Youssef En-Nesyri this summer, according to reports.
But West Ham remain in the driving seat to secure the Moroccan’s signature.
The Red Devils are in the running for Sevilla’s Youssef En-NesyriCredit: Alamy
The Hammers tried to sign En-Nesyri to replace Sebastian Haller in January but their £26.7million bid was knocked back.
David Moyes’ side remain keen on the 23-year-old, and are expected to up their offer at the end of the season.
But, according to Estadio Deportivo, Man United and Liverpool see the striker as a potential alternative to the in-demand Erling Haaland.
Sevilla are rumoured to be willing to let go of their leading goalscorer for around £40m, despite efforts to renew his contract – although his current deal does still have four years left to run.
RAPH RACE
United are set to face off with Chelsea in the race for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, according to reports.
The Frenchman, 27, could ask to leave the Bernabeu this summer ahead of his contract expiring in 2022.
Real would not want to lose their man on a free in a year’s time and are said to favour cashing in if he won’t sign a new contract.
That has opened the door for Chelsea and United in their quest to bolster their defence.
It had previously been suggested in the Spanish media that Varane was edging towards Old Trafford.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is thought to have made a new partner for Harry Maguire his transfer priority.
EF-HELL
The ‘Big Six’ claim they do not just want to sail off into the Super League sunset and sink the rest.
But irrespective of their motives and the post-Covid financial squeeze, the consequences for those left behind will be immense.
As Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham, Manchester City and United turn their backs on Uefa and join the money hunt they will:
As Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham, Manchester City and United turn their backs on Uefa and join the money hunt they will:

Cause a £35million-per-club drop in Premier League TV revenues — even if they stay in the top flight
See that figure drop by more than double if they are banned from playing in the Prem
Render the league’s “top-four” race redundant
Smash a huge hole in the potential value of top-flight clubs
Make clubs ponder whether stadium expansion or rebuilding plans have any real merit
See a huge knock-on impact on the Championship, where many clubs are already on the brink
And bring the very existence of clubs in Leagues One and Two under real and genuine threat — despite promises of a huge cash windfall.

TROY DEENEY SPEAKS OUT ABOUT THE ESL
In an exclusive column with The Sun, Deeney writes: “In my heart of hearts, I believe — and I hope — that a breakaway European Super League will not happen.
“But the threat is real and the questions, for footballers as well fans, are endless. Will Watford be promoted into a Premier League without the Big Six next season?
“Will we ever see another story as inspiring as Jamie Vardy’s, who rose from non-league to Leicester, where he won promotion, won the Premier League and played in the Champions League?
“Will Harry Kane have to choose between playing Super League football with Tottenham or breaking the England goalscoring record because players from the proposed “rebel” league will have been banned from the international game?
“There are a million more questions — but one thing we know for certain is the owners of English football’s Big Six do not care too much about their own loyal match-going supporters.
“Because fans of the breakaway clubs hate the idea of ruining football’s pyramid system as much as anyone else.The vast majority do not want a breakaway league.”
READY TROY DEENEY’S FULL COLUMN HERE
LIONS IN WAIT
England’s starting XI at the World Cup in 2022 without ‘Big Six’ stars could see some fan-favourite players getting their chance.
Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, Liverpool and the two Manchester clubs have signed up to a 20-team breakaway European Super League.
The Premier League’s so-called ‘Big Six’ are joined by Spanish trio Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Italian sides Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus.
But Uefa and Fifa have threatened ESL players they will be BANNED from representing their national teams.
And while that may rule out many of Gareth Southgate’s top players including Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling, Jordan Henderson and Harry Maguire, plenty of others would be ready to jump at the chance to represent the Three Lions in Qatar next winter.
Here SunSport names an 11 who WOULD be eligible to play.

NEVILLE HITS BACK
In response to Klopp, he said: “I don’t know what spiked him. Yesterday was a passionate rant from me to defend football.
“I’ve equally distributed enough criticism to both Manchester United and Liverpool over the last 24 hours. So I don’t know what his problem is.
“He talks about hotseat, I had a 25-year career at Manchester United, an 11-year career at Sky and I’ve earned that.
“I didn’t go where the most money is. I didn’t have choices. Sir Alex Ferguson didn’t say ‘do you want to stay here every single day?’.
“I have no idea what he’s talking about. I employ 600 people in my city. I’ve tried to keep them employed during a pandemic.
“Is that not a hot enough seat for him?”

JUR JOKING
Jurgen Klopp fired a shot at Garry Neville after the Manchester United legend referenced Liverpool’s ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ anthem when spouting his rage at the proposed European Super League.
But Klopp responded: “Gary Neville talks about ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’, that should be forbidden to be honest.
“We have a lot of rights to sing that anthem and it’s our anthem, not his anthem. He doesn’t understand it anyway so I really don’t want these things because it’s not fair.
“All the talk is around and I don’t like it as well, but I don’t talk about other clubs like this. We can be emotional but I wish Gary Neville would be in a hot seat somewhere, not where the most money is.
“Whether it’s at Man United where the most money is, Sky where the most money is. Don’t forget that we have nothing to do with it.
“We are in the same situation as you all, we got information and we still had to play football and you deal with us already like this. That’s really not OK.”

LEED THE WAY
Leeds trolled Liverpool after their 1-1 draw by refusing to refer to their club name.
The English champions are one of the six Premier League clubs pushing ahead in the proposed European Super League.
In response, Leeds referred to them simply as – Merseyside Red – very similar to the name given to them on the video game Pro Evolution Soccer.
FULL TIME: #LUFC hold Super League side Merseyside Reds to a 1-1 draw after late Llorente equaliser— Leeds United (@LUFC) April 19, 2021

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MANCHESTER UNITED have been blasted as CRIMINAL by former star Gary Neville over joining European Super League.Meanwhile the Red Devils have reportedly been handed a boost in their pursuit of Erling Haaland and are also reportedly chasing Rafael Varane.
Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
HAALAND SITUATION
Manchester United are among the clubs interested in signing Borussia Dortmund megastar Erling Haaland in the summer.
However, the fees required by Dortmund as well as Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola are astronomical.
Therefore, it is important to remind there is a clause in the star striker’s contract that will allow him to leave for a major cut-price of €75m (£65m) in the summer of 2022.
That would work as a major boost for United along with the other interested parties
BRU-NO NO NO
Bruno Fernandes has become the first ‘Big Six’ player to break his silence on the much-maligned European Super League.
Premier League chiefs are furious at the Red Devils, Man City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham for pressing ahead with the £4.6BILLION breakaway plan, which was confirmed last night.
Now Fernandes has offered his thoughts on the matter as he shared an Instagram post from fellow Portuguese ace Daniel Podence in which the Wolves star appeared to condemn the proposal.
Podence’s post said: “The ball. The song. The dream. The Zidane’s volley… Kaka’s solo… Liverpool in Athens… Ole in Barcelona… Cris and Seedorf… There some (sic) things we just can’t really pay for.”
Fernandes replied: “Enorme (enormous).”
The United attacker then shared the post to his own Instagram Story, and included the text: “Dreams can’t be [bought].”

$UP£R L£AGU£
European Super League was axed as Tottenham boss after a players’ revolt.
The Special One’s 17-month reign in charge at Spurs came to an end when he was sacked this morning – just six days before they face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup Final at Wembley.
The move was hit by an epic backlash from players, pundits and fans alike.
But the founding members – 15 when all is said and done – will be laughing all the way to the bank.
Last season, Bayern Munich pocketed around £71million in prize money for lifting the Champions League.
However, all 20 teams set to take part in the inaugural European Super League are set to earn a minimum of £285m each, according to the New York Times.
That’s over four times MORE than the 2020 Champions League winners simply for signing up.
Clubs joining the proposed tournament could earn up to £310m as an initial ‘golden hello.
They will then rake in a minimum of £130m each season from their share of a £3.1billion total pot.

WE’LL SUE EU
Super League rebels have threatened to sue Fifa AND Uefa if they try to ban the clubs from setting up their breakaway competition.
Uefa’s response to news of the proposed new self-elected elite was to raise the prospect of the 12 clubs – including all of the Prem Big Six – and their players being unable to play in any national or international competitions.
Premier League chief executive Richard Masters and the FA were co-signatories to that letter.
In the letter both insisted permission would not be granted by English football chiefs for Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs and the two Manchester giants to take part.
But the clubs responded with a joint letter of their own – sent to Fifa President Gianni Infantino and Uefa counterpart Aleksander Ceferin.
In it they revealed they had already engaged lawyers to fight their corner.

PLAYER BANS CONFIRMED
Fabrizio Romano reports that UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has confirmed that players who compete in the European Super League will be banned from the World Cup and Euros.
That means anyone from the Premier League’s “big six” that breaks away won’t be allowed to be part of their national teams.
There had been rumours of potential sanctions towards the sides involved with the proposed format, which Ceferin described as “disgraceful”.
The UEFA President also said the ESL poses as a “spit in the face ” of all football fans
UEFA’s Alexander Ceferin confirms: “The players that will play in the Super League will be banned from playing in the World Cup and Euros. Ceferin. They will not be allowed play for their national teams”. 🚫🇪🇺 #SuperLeague— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 19, 2021

MORE FROM CEFERIN
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin characterised the proposed European Super League as “disgraceful”.
Ceferin also said the ESL acts as a “spit in the face” for all football fans.
The UEFA President said: “I cannot stress more strongly UEFA and the footballing world are united against the disgraceful, self-serving proposals we have seen, fuelled purely by greed. It’s a nonsense of a project.
“This idea is a spit in the face for all football lovers and our society. We will not allow them to take this away from us”
PREMIER LEAGUE SET MEETING
The Premier League are going to hold a meeting with 14 clubs on Tuesday morning.
That means the “big six”, which is Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham, who are involved in the proposed European Super League project as “founding clubs” won’t be included.
The representatives involved will discuss the ongoing situation and the next steps.
The scheduled meeting will be chaired by Premier League CEO Richard Masters
CEFERIN LASHES OUT AT WOODWARD
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has strongly criticised Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward and Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli following the European Super League proposition.
Ceferin said: “I was a criminal lawyer for 24 years but I’ve never, ever, seen people like that.
“If I start with Ed Woodward, he called me last Thursday, saying that he’s very satisfied with reforms and he fully supports them. Obviously, he already signed something else.
“Andrea Agnelli is the biggest disappointment of all. I’ve never seen a person lie so many times as he did, it was unbelievable”
MUST TAKE ACTION
The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust reacted to the club’s involvement in the European Super League project.
United have been granted the title of “founding club” along with five other Premier League sides, which are Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham.
The Trust, though, are completely opposed to the proposed competition as they described it as “unacceptable” and a “betrayal”.
Here’s the statement they released:

BRUNO FERNANDES REACTS
Manchester United superstar Bruno Fernandes has endorsed a post by fellow countryman and Wolves star Daniel Podence that appears to criticise the European Super League.
Podence shared an image on Instagram that shows him celebrating a Champions League goal with his former club Olympiacos last season.
The Portugal international shared the photo with the following caption: “The Ball. The Song. The Dream. The Zidane’s volley… Kaka’s Solo… Liverpool In Athens… Ole in Barcelona… Cris and Seedorf … There some things we just can’t really pay for it.”
Fernandes shared that post as a story on his own Instagram account with some “clapping” emojis and a caption that read: “Dreams can’t be buy”

TUCHEL REACTS
Chelsea are among the teams that hold the title of “founding club” of the proposed European Super League.
Blues manager Thomas Tuchel addressed his club’s involvement in the ESL by saying he “trusts” the hierarchy to make the right decisions.
Tuchel told ESPN’s James Olley: “I trust my club to make the right decisions. It is too early to judge everything and it is not my part.
“On my badge, it says everybody has to play their role and my role is coach”
On Tuchel Zoom. Says about Chelsea’s involvement in proposed ESL: “I trust my club to make the right decisions. It is too early to judge everything and it is not my part. On my badge, it says everybody has to play their role and my role is coach.”— James Olley (@JamesOlley) April 19, 2021

BIG SIX BOMBSHELL
Sky Sports News have shared some major backstage info regarding the European Super League.
The report includes a statement by a board member at one of the six Premier League clubs that are breaking away.
They said: “There are several board members at the six clubs who are opposed to joining the new league but they feel they do not have the power to stop it.”
They added that the owners were expecting a backlash: “To be honest, they are not that worried about PR” as “the wider good of the game is a secondary concern.”
The unnamed board member also said the owners would be secretly pleased with their players being banned from the Euros and World Cup as “they don’t like giving their playing assets away to countries for very little financial reward.”.
And finally, they stated: “This is not a civil war, it’s a nuclear war”
ANOTHER ESL SNUB
Porto president Pinto da Costa confirmed he rejected an offer to join the European Super League, which includes Manchester United.
This comes after rumours suggested the Portuguese giants could be one of the additional three “Founding Clubs”.
The Dragons are now the fourth club to reject the ESL after Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Paris St-Germain.
Da Costa said: “There were informal contacts from some clubs, but we didn’t pay much attention for two reasons. The first is that the European Union does not allow a closed circuit of events like in the NBA, for example.
“As the Portuguese Football Federation is against this, and as part of UEFA, we cannot participate in anything that is against the principles and rules of the European Union and UEFA.
“If that goes forward, something that I have a lot of doubts about, UEFA will not end and it is certain that they will continue to have evidence. It must be recognized that the events organized by UEFA are the official events.
“We are not concerned with being or not, we are in the Champions League and we hope to continue to be for many years”
MORE FROM NEVILLE!
Manchester United legend Gary Neville is not done with his scathing criticism of the European Super League and his former club.
Neville blasted against the new initiative at Sky Sports on Sunday and even suggested the harshest of punishments for United and the rest of the “founding clubs”.
This time the footballer-turned-pundit took a swipe at the Red Devils ahead of Sunday’s Premier League encounter at Leeds.
Neville said: “Leeds players should walk to the side of the pitch and just let them keep scoring ! They don’t want competition….”

CATASTROPHICALLY DESTABILISING
The League Managers Association (LMA) believes the European Super League, which now includes Manchester United, would have a “catastrophically destabilising” effect on the sport
A statement from the LMA read: “We believe that any such league would be catastrophically destabilising to the entire European football pyramid, with deep and far-reaching consequences.
“Closing off the top of the pyramid of European club football would immediately extinguish many of the ambitions and dreams that drive managers, coaches, players and fans.
“Club owners are custodians of the clubs they lead and they have a duty and responsibility to the integrity of the game that should always take precedence over self-interest and financial gain. Now more than ever, as the game looks to face the challenges of re-emerging from the COVID pandemic, it needs to be unified, working to the principles of cooperation and solidarity.
“We will support the game’s stakeholders in taking any appropriate measures required and we urge those leading the clubs responsible for the European Super League proposals to fundamentally reconsider their position and act in the best interests of the whole game.”
DARK DAY
Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Committee Chair Julian Knight described the ongoing European Super League developments, which include Manchester United, as a “dark day for football”.
Knight said: “This is a dark day for football – a deal done behind closed doors apparently with no regard for supporters.
“Though this idea was mooted several months ago, what’s shocking is the speed at which this breakaway league has been announced.
“What’s needed is a fan-led review of football with real teeth and here we have more evidence to strengthen the case for it.
“Football needs a reset, but this is not the way to do it. The interests of community clubs must be put at the heart of any future plans.
“We, the Committee, will be discussing this when we meet tomorrow in a private session”
ANDER-STAND THIS
Former Manchester United star Ander Herrera took to Twitter condemning the European Super League project.
Herrera broke his silence and claimed that this is a case of ” the rich stealing what the people created”.
Reports suggest that the star midfielder’s current club Paris St-Germain were invited to be part of the format but turned them down.
It is also claimed that the PSG hierarchy believe that it would be disrespectful to join a top competition that would be exclusive for the richest clubs

MOURINHO REPLACEMENT
Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho is no longer in charge of Tottenham.
Spurs are now searching for Mourinho’s permanent replacement following the Portuguese coach’s shock exit.
Until then, former club player Ryan Mason is going to take over first team training.
Here’s who Betfair think are the likeliest candidates to take over at Tottenham:

Julian Nagelsmann – 7/2
Jurgen Klinsmann – 7/2
Brendan Rodgers – 5/1
Ledley King – 9/1
Massimiliano Allegri – 10/1
Steven Gerrard – 12/1
Scott Parker – 12/1
Rafa Benitez – 14/1
Nuno Espirito Santo – 14/1
Gareth Southgate – 16/1
Maurizio Sarri – 16/1
Diego Simeone – 20/1
Graham Potter – 20/1
Roberto Martinez – 20/1

HAALAND SITUATION
Manchester United are among the clubs interested in signing Borussia Dortmund megastar Erling Haaland in the summer.
However, the fees required by Dortmund as well as Haaland’s agent Mino Raiola are astronomical.
Therefore, it is important to remind there is a clause in the star striker’s contract that will allow him to leave for a major cut-price of €75m (£65m) in the summer of 2022.
That would work as a major boost for United along with the other interested parties
TOTTENHAM STATEMENT
Tottenham have confirmed that former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has been relieved of his duties.
Mourinho will be departing from Spurs along with his coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin and Giovanni Cerra.
Chairman Daniel Levy said: “Jose and his coaching staff have been with us through some of our most challenging times as a Club. Jose is a true professional who showed enormous resilience during the pandemic.
“On a personal level I have enjoyed working with him and regret that things have not worked out as we both had envisaged.
“He will always be welcome here and we should like to thank him and his coaching staff for their contribution”
The Club can today announce that Jose Mourinho and his coaching staff Joao Sacramento, Nuno Santos, Carlos Lalin and Giovanni Cerra have been relieved of their duties.#THFC ⚪️ #COYS— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) April 19, 2021

VARANE SITUATION
Manchester United are in very advanced talks with Real Madrid amid their bid to sign Raphael Varane in the summer.
That is according to El Chiringuito TV, who claim United are in pole position for Varane’s signature.
The defender is entering his final year at Real and Los Blancos have accepted that they may have to sell him at the end of the season if they want to make a profit out of him.
Red Devils manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is reportedly looking for someone to partner up with Harry Maguire at centre-back
WHAT SOLSKJAER SAID
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remained coy about the European Super League plans when quizzed before the announcement on Sunday.
Solskjaer said after United’s 3-1 win over Burnley: “I am dealing with the news this afternoon, the speculation.
“I don’t think it is for me to comment on now. We just have to wait and see what happens.
“As I have said, I have seen the speculation or news this afternoon. I can’t comment. It is an issue for the clubs to comment on.
“I’ve seen this morning the news about the speculation, so I can’t really say too much. My focus has been on this game.
“I haven’t looked into [the details], I’ve just been focusing on this game. I need to sit down and see what it is. I’ve not seen any, I don’t know all the ins and outs, I need to find out and then the clubs can issue a comment”

MOURINHO SACKED!
In what has already been a mad day in football, former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho appears to have been sacked as Tottenham manager.
That is according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, who reports that Spurs have parted ways with Mourinho after a turbulent season.
The north Londoners are seventh in the Premier League table and look set to miss out on the top four for the second year in a row.
This comes after Tottenham decided to break away and join the controversial European Super League format

FERDINAND SPEAKS OUT
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand joined an ever-growing list of high-profile figures condemning the European Super League project calling it a “war on football”.
Ferdinand told BT Sport: “This is, for me, a war on football. It’s a disgrace, it’s embarrassing and goes against everything football is about.
“It’s a closed shop for these bigwigs and it’s completely and utterly only about one thing and that’s money. The rich getting richer and the others not even being considered.
“How they’ve got the audacity to do it in the climate we’re in at the moment… the pandemic around the world. People are struggling all over the world, and this lot…colluding with this idea that they’ve hatched – and to break it like this.
“The element of being anti-competitive goes against everything football is about. It screams [that] these people have no idea what football’s about. It’s purely a business transaction. The people who make this game special are not being considered”
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