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      Arsenal 2 Man Utd 0: Amorim tastes defeat for first time at hands of fierce rivals as Arteta closes gap on Liverpool

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      IF Arsenal do mount a proper title challenge this season, they’ll do it by riding a love train.That’s the line-up of Gunners players who rush in from behind the back post every time they win a corner, pack the opposition six-yard box – and frequently score.Arsenal ran out 2-0 winners over Manchester United at the EmiratesCredit: GETTYJurrien Timber broke the deadlock in the 54th minute with a deft headerCredit: REUTERSWilliam Saliba unknowingly scored the Gunners’ secondCredit: REUTERSHere, Ruben Amorim suffered his first defeat as Manchester United boss as Arsenal netted from two of these familiar set-piece routines – off the head of Jurrien Timber and the right buttock of William Saliba.That fortunate effort from the French defender was the 22nd goal Arsenal had scored from a corner in the Premier League since the start of last season – seven more than any other club.Mikel Arteta’s tactics owe more to Tony Pulis than Arsene Wenger but nobody at the Emirates will give a stuff if they can give Liverpool a run for their money.As Arne Slot’s men finally dropped a couple of points in a classic at Newcastle, the Gunners were grinding it out against an unadventurous United side who came for a point and ended with nowt.READ MORE ON ARSENALArteta’s men are now within seven points of leaders Liverpool, and trailing second-placed Chelsea on goal difference.There is hope, however slim, after this third straight convincing league win.Amorim’s side barely had a shot on goal until a David Raya wonder save denied Matthijs De Ligt midway through the second half.But the corner count of 13-0 told its own story. You simply cannot afford to afford Arsenal so many set-piece chances when they are the undoubted masters of that art.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSGuru Nico Jover will take even more plaudits after this – and for all the talk of Amorim’s tactical genius, United were supremely unconvincing at this defensive basic.Amorim is still at the bingo master stage with his team selections as he grapples with the various permutations among his squad.Man Utd vs Arsenal: Player Ratings (1)There were six changes from the 4-0 thumping of Everton – including the benching of Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee, who between them netted all four goals on Sunday.Mason Mount, a player Amorim has expressed his “love” for, was handed his first league start since August – against his best chum Declan Rice.Arsenal’s defensive resources were being stretched Gabriel and Ricardo Calafiori joining Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu on the injury list, with Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko both drafted in.On a filthy old night in north London, the first half was a tough old watch.There was precious little devilment from Arsenal and United found it all too easy to sit in their shape and threaten on the counter.Gabriel Martinelli had the ball in the net early on but Kai Havertz had been well offside.Arsenal’s only real threat was from their trademark corner-kick routines – Thomas Partey mistiming a header from point-blank range and the ball cannoning wide off his shoulder.Martinelli blazed wide after Andre Onana had punched a dangerous Saka corner out from beneath his bar.Amorim sat on his haunches, stroked his chin and watched the chess. Patrick Vieira and Roy Keane would have hated it.It wasn’t until the 43rd minute that United had a shot – Diogo Dalot drilling wide across goal.Yet there wasn’t a single effort on target from either side during one of the most forgettable halves of football you could ever imagine watching.Tyrell Malacia, who booked in a tangle with Havertz just before the interval, was hooked at half-time to make way for Amad Diallo – the stand-out star of Amorim’s early reign.New Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim predicted his side would soon face a “storm”Credit: REUTERSThe Portuguese gaffer ended up putting his head in his hands in the second halfCredit: ReutersSoon after the second half got away, Liverpool had their lead cancelled out at Newcastle and there was just a glimmer of hope that some sort of title race might occur. And that Arsenal might be part of it.Rice soon had a shot deflected over and then, after a lengthy injury delay as Matthijs De Ligt received treatment, Arsenal forced another corner and finally seized the lead.Arsenal were packing the six-yard box every time they won a set-piece and this time Rice delivered to the near post, where Rasmus Hojlund failed to connect and Timber snuck in behind him to glance a header past Onana.Amorim immediately turned to his bench and sent on Rashford and Zirkzee, along with debutant defender Lenny Yoro, who had been injured in pre-season following a summer move from Lille.His first task was to help deal with another couple of Arsenal corners, Manuel Ugarte clearing the next one off the line after a Rice in-swinger.Diallo gave Zinchenko the run-around and was hauled down on the edge of the area by the Ukrainian full-back, who was booked.Fernandes delivered the free-kick and De Ligt’s towering header forced a magnificent clawing save from a full-stretched David Raya – the Arsenal keeper’s first meaningful action of the night, midway through the second half.Zinchenko was soon withdrawn in favour of Mikel Merino, with Thomas Partey moving to right-back as Leandro Trossard replaced Martinelli.Then came the second, a corner conceded by Rashford attempting to play keepy-uppy on his own goal line.Saka swung this one in from the right, Partey nodded back from beyond the far post as the ball cannoned in off Saliba’s backside.Havertz should have completed the job soon after when latched on to Odegaard’s sweet pass only for Onana to block the German at near post.READ MORE SUN STORIESFrom another corner, Merino headed wide across goal. And Partey then went close from – you guessed it, yet another corner.Arsenal ratings vs Manchester UnitedARSENAL were comfortable 2-0 winners over Manchester United at the Emirates thanks to two goals from set-pieces.Check out how the players rated…DAVID RAYA – 7/10One of his poorer games with ball at feet, scuffing clearances when he is usually so pin-point.All that can be forgotten after a stunning fingertip stop to keep out De Ligt’s looping header.OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO – 7A reminder of why he is such a valuable squad player these days. Came in from out of the cold with a solid and resolute performance at the back.The only blip was a lapse in concentration meaning he was forced to foul Amad and pick up a needless yellow card.WILLIAM SALIBA – 9Missed his defensive partner but you wouldn’t know it. Cool and calm under pressure with some nice turns and drives up the pitch.So he deserved his luck for his goal to make it 2-0 – Partey’s header from a corner deflecting off his backside.JAKUB KIWIOR – 8Struggled physically against Hojlund from United goal kicks and long balls, often letting the ball bounce instead of attacking it aerially like Gabriel does.Saying that, he grew into his role and really put in a shift under pressure, even getting high fives from Saliba at one point.JURRIEN TIMBER – 8Link-up with Saka down the right flank was not as fluid as in recent weeks, yet he was brave to win the flick on to open the scoring in the second half.Switched to left-back late on, showing off further his versatility and usefulness to Arteta and ArsenalTHOMAS PARTEY – 7Missed a sitter from a near-post corner that he shouldered wide early on and continued to have one of those games in midfield, giving up possession time after time with sloppy passes.Moved to right back with 20 minutes left only to help double their lead with his header for Saliba.DECLAN RICE – 7Struggled to assert his authority in the first half but fixed that after the break, providing the whipped corner assist for Timber.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 7Leads by example, even if he cannot sprinkle a big of magic into proceedings. His pressing and all-round work rate was more important in this one.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Shinned a decent chance from six yards after United failed to clear a corner. Was committed in defence in the second half to help out Zinchenko against Amad.BUKAYO SAKA – 7Pushed Malacia back and Arsenal up the pitch with his great runs in behind, a constant threat.His corner abilities – teeing up Saliba’s gaol – is just another string to his bow.KAI HAVERTZ – 6A real quiet one from the German, not that he had much service to feed off. Wore out his boots with plenty of running and battled with De Ligt and Maguire well.Missed a glorious chance to wrap up the game in a one-on-one with Onana.SUBS:MIKEL MERINO (ZINCHENKO, 70) – 7Leaped brilliantly from yet another corner unmarked and no clue how he didn’t find the bottom corner.LEANDRO TROSSARD (MARTINELLI, 70) – 6A couple of breakaways almost created openings. The added energy down the left was well received.JORGINHO (ODEGAARD, 90) – N/AMan Utd ratings vs ArsenalRUBEN AMORIM lost his first game since taking charge of Man Utd after a 2-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates.See how the players rated…ANDRE ONANA – 5He was let off early in the game after a stray pass saw Gabriel Martinelli put the ball in the net before the linesman raised his flag.Failed to command his area as 5″10 Jurrien Timber leapt highest to rattle the back of his net, before the ball floated to the back post for Arsenal to score their second set piece.DIOGO DALOT – 6Flashed a shot just wide at the end of the first half when he did eventually get forward.Not bad defensively but more dangerous going forwards.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Formed a good partnership with Maguire in the first half, and fans will be hoping he is okay after suffering a slight knock.Needed to be a more commanding figure in the box to stop being dominated by The Gunners at set pieces.HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was actually very impressive in the first half, with a solid showing.Not at fault for Timber’s header hitting the back of the net, before he was replaced by Leny Yoro.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Playing as a left-sided centre-back he looked fairly comfortable, which is a credit to the Moroccan’s versatility.That said, he still looked better off in the role that Malacia, then Dalot occupied tonight as a left-wingback.TYRELL MALACIA – 3Noticeably looked extremely physically weak up against Bukayo Saka on the left-hand side, before being booked for a kick out at Kai Havertz.Offered nothing going forward and his link-up with Garnacho was practically non-existent. Hooked at half-time for the far more threatening Amad.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Another one who was booked in the first half, he failed to establish any kind of presence in the game and on the ball, looked pretty woeful.Cleared a Joshua Zirkzee header off of his own line to stop Arsenal from doubling their lead early in the second half.BRUNO FERNANDES – 4This game was crying out for Bruno Fernandes to stamp his authority on it, and it seemed he just couldn’t quite get his foot on the ball to do so.Played a deeper role today, next to Ugarte, which meant we didn’t see any of his attacking spark.MASON MOUNT – 3Mason Mount at right wing was an experiment tried and failed at Chelsea, which Amorim tried again tonight.He was often lost in the half-space, meaning he was essentially useless going forwards. Hooked in the second half after a fairly abysmal showing.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5A very quiet first half, only brightened by one half-decent cross, was met by a second half where he was quickly subbed for Marcus Rashford.Quiet.RASMUS HOJLUND – 6Battled well with the physical presence of William Saliba early on, but his side failed to create him any kind of chances.Cut a frustrated figure for most of the match, and rightly so. There will be no point signing Gyokeres if they can’t create anything for him to score.SUBSAMAD (TYRELL MALACIA, HT) – 5Was more direct and definitely an improvement on Malacia, albeit on the opposite flank.However, still wasn’t able to be the difference which Ruben Amorim would’ve been looking for in this one.MARCUS RASHFORD (MASON MOUNT, 72) – 5Having been electric on the whole under Amorim, he wasn’t able to provide any kind of spark against an opponent which has been one of his favourites in recent years.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (ALEJANDRO GARNACHO, 72) – 4After an impressive display last time out, he failed to offer anything to his side going forward today.The closest he came to scoring was a dangerous header which almost saw him get an own goal on the scoresheet.LENY YORO (HARRY MAGUIRE, 72) – 6Looks like a pretty good defender on the whole, a tough game for a young centre-back, but he didn’t look out of place whatsoever.ANTONY (RASMUS HOJLUND, 79) – 5Played his part in a clever free-kick routine at the end of the game, before fluffing his lines and finding the gloves of David Raya. 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      Man Utd star Mazraoui refused to wear pro-LGBTQ+ jacket ahead of Everton clash forcing club to scrap pre-match plans

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      MANCHESTER UNITED players abandoned plans to wear a jacket in support of the LGBTQ+ community after Noussair Mazraoui refused to join the initiative.United were due to don an Adidas jacket before Sunday’s Premier League clash with Everton at Old Trafford, where Ruben Amorim’s side picked up a 4-0 win.Manchester United players abandoned plans to don pro-LGBTQ+ jackets after Noussair Mazraoui refused to participateCredit: PAMan Utd donned the pro-LGBTQ+ training gear last yearCredit: GettyMan Utd captain Bruno Fernandes wore the pro-LGBTQ+ armband against EvertonCredit: GettyMan Utd have worn a pride-themed jersey to warm up ahead of games and a jacket of a similar design when walking out for a match the last two seasons during the Rainbow Laces period.That is when Premier League teams are asked to support the LGBTQ+ community.According to The Athletic, however, the Red Devils decided not to wear the walk-out jacket because Mazraoui, 27, told his team-mates he was not prepared to wear it due to his Muslim faith.The team decided that no players would wear it so that the full-back would not be the only one seen publicly refusing to put it on.Read More on Man UtdThe squad’s decision was taken just hours before the game against Everton.The same source claims not everyone in the dressing room was happy with the decision.It has also been reported that Adidas is disappointed by the development after United’s players previously supported the initiative before matches in previous years. Nevertheless, captain Bruno Fernandes wore the rainbow armband, reflecting the club’s support for the Rainbow Laces campaign.Most read in FootballSeveral men’s and women’s first team players, such as Fernandes, Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans, also took part in video content expressing support for the campaign.The United skipper described wearing his rainbow-coloured armband as “a sign of respect” that makes LGBTQ+ fans “feel supported” by the players.England star Marc Guéhi’s talks about his father’s faith and missing church on Sundays Man Utd issued the following statement: “Manchester United welcomes fans from all backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and we are strongly committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion.“We demonstrate these principles through a range of activities, including support for our Rainbow Devils supporters’ club, and campaigns to celebrate our LGBTQ+ fans and combat all forms of discrimination.“Players are entitled to hold their own individual opinions, particularly in relation to their faith, and these may sometimes differ from the club’s position.”The Rainbow Devils, United’s LGBTQ+ Supporters Club, issued a statement in response to Mazraoui’s stance.It read: “As part of this year’s Rainbow Laces campaign, Rainbow Devils worked closely with – and had great support from – Manchester United and the Fan Engagement team. “This has included working with the Manchester United Foundation to spread the message of inclusivity with local schools, to a Q&A with two Men’s first team players, to supportive messages from many Men and Women first team players (including an individual one from captain Bruno Fernandes). “Even a pitchside event at Old Trafford on Sunday ahead of the Everton game. On this latter occasion, which was United’s official Rainbow Laces game, the players were due to wear specially designed jackets pre-match to mark the occasion. “Shortly before the game, Rainbow Devils was informed that these jackets would not be worn. The reason being that one of the matchday squad had refused to wear the jacket on the grounds of their personally held beliefs. “Therefore, to maintain the team ethos and togetherness, none of the players would be wearing them.”This was obviously a great disappointment to Rainbow Devils, but also to all those who had worked hard at the club to deliver this event. “We are aware of who the player concerned is, but we feel it isn’t our role to single him out, and risk spoiling all the other positive things that the majority of those at the club have done. “We respect the right of this player to have his own views, whilst also feeling disappointed that he put the rest of the squad into a position where they felt that they couldn’t wear their jackets. “We also worry what kind of negative effect this incident might have on any player at the club who may be struggling with their sexuality. “Rainbow Devils will continue to work with Manchester United to support inclusivity, through the One Love initiative and others, as we all continue our work to ensure all LGBTQ+ people feel safe and welcome at Old Trafford, both on and off the pitch.Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy, who is also a practising Muslim, refused to wear a rainbow armband for religious reasons in his club’s two Rainbow Laces fixtures as well.And Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi was reminded by the Football Association of the rules on playing equipment after writing a religious message on his.Guehi, 24, who is a devout Christian, was warned by the FA not to repeat his actions after writing “I love Jesus” on his armband for Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Newcastle.And on Tuesday, the Palace skipper ignored the warning as he wrote “Jesus loves you” on his armband during the 1-0 victory at Ipswich.READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, it has emerged that the FA do not plan any formal disciplinary action against the centre-back despite the breach of Rule A4.Instead, Wembley beaks have reminded the Eagles of the kit regulations that are in place.Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi twice wrote a messgage expressing his religious beliefs on his armbandCredit: PAIpswich skipper Sam Morsy chose not to wear a rainbow armbandCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd set to include exciting 6ft 5in wonderkid, 16, in squad vs Arsenal as Red Devils hit with defensive crisis

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      MANCHESTER UNITED look set to name 16-year-old wonderkid Godwill Kukonki in Ruben Amorim’s squad to face back in-form Arsenal.It comes after the Red Devils were again hit with a defensive crisis after Luke Shaw’s injury set-back and Lisandro Martinez’s suspension.Man Utd look set to name 16-year-old Godwill Kukonki in their squad to face ArsenalCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeTowering youngster Kukonki was given a chance to impressKukonki, who hails at 6ft 5in, was pictured travelling down with the squad to North London on Tuesday afternoon.He also went along to Portman Road for Amorim’s Prem debut against Ipswich but was not included in the matchday squad.But given United’s lack of depth at the back, Kukonki looks set to be named in his first Prem squad against Arsenal, according to Manchester Evening News.Left-footed centre-back Kukonki is highly rated at the club, having impressed with the Under-18s, who look to be heading to their second successive Premier League this season.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIt is believed that he has the “technical and physical qualities” needed to star in senior football before he turns 17 in February 2025.It comes as United are missing FIVE defenders for their trip to the Emirates.Shaw, 29, had just returned to action late last month following a nine month spell on the sidelines due to problems with his knee and calf.The full-back made three appearances from the bench against Ipswich Town, Bodo/Glimt and Everton since his return to fitness.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHowever, the England international suffered another minor injury after the weekend, with fans hoping he’d start in the back-three in the absence of Martinez.Argentinian star Martinez and Kobbie Mainoo are both suspended after picking up their fifth yellow cards of the season against Everton.How Ruben Amorim unleashed Rashford with game-changing Zirkzee role ahead of Man Utd v ArsenalVictor Lindelof’s groin issues has left him ruled out, while Jonny Evans is still being assessed following a knock against Ipswich.Amorim could be eyeing his first defeat in the United dugout tonight.Evans was not included in United’s 4-0 win over Everton on Sunday and summer signing Leny Yoro is working his way back to fitness.The Gunners are looking to extend their run to four consecutive wins as they climbed to second in the Prem.Mikel Arteta’s side have scored 13 GOALS in their last three games against Nottingham Forest, Sporting and West Ham.Man Utd ratings vs Everton as Zirkzee answers his critics in style… but one midfielder strugglesRUBEN AMORIM celebrated his first Premier League game at Old Trafford with a stunning 4-0 victory over Everton.Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee shook off questions over their recent form with two each at a thrilled Old Trafford – as the Red Devils won a Prem game by four goals or more since the opening day of the 2021-22 season.Here’s how SunSport’s Ken Lawrence rated the Red Devils…ANDRE ONANA – 6Called into action early and showed growing his growing composure as No 1.NOUSSAIR MAZROUI – 6Has rapidly become one of the United faithful’s favourites doing himself no harm again.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Stretched at first by bustling Beto but beginning to look like he’s settling down in a back three.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Once again looking like the master and commander of the United rearguard.AMAD DIALLO – 8Went from wasteful to the plundering terror of centre backs Branthwaite and Tarkowski.KOBBIE MAINOO – 6Quiet, calm, controlled, no panic, no loss of possession, no problem for the midfielder.CASEMIRO – 5Looked like his lack of pace might be a problem again in central midfield but ground it out.DIOGO DALOT – 6Enjoying life in his new left-side forward role and didn’t really put a foot wrong.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 8Transformed himself from headless chicken to tripling his whole United tally with two clinical strikes.MARCUS RASHFORD – 9Ruben Amorim has gone out of his way to big up the front man and he’s responding in style.BRUNO FERNANDES – 6Wasteful for a while but got his head down to have a real influence by the end.SUBSLUKE SHAW (Mazraoui 56) – 5Comfortably easing himself back.HARRY MAGUIRE (de Ligt 56) – 5Looked happy to be out there.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO (Fernandes 66) – 5Got bustling off the bench.MANUEL UGARTE (Casemiro 66) – 5Will be wanting more minutes than this.MASON MOUNT (Mainoo 80) – 5Sharp and up for it. More

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      Man Utd star Luke Shaw posts heartbreaking injury update with defender set for ANOTHER spell on the sidelines

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      MANCHESTER UNITED ace Luke Shaw has suffered yet another injury setback that has left him “absolutely devastated”.Shaw, 29, had just returned to action late last month following a lengthy spell in the sidelines due to problems with his knee and calf.Manchester United ace Luke Shaw has suffered yet another injury setbackCredit: GettyShaw issued a heartbreaking message to Man Utd fans regarding his latest injury blowCredit: Instagram @lukeshaw23Shaw had just returned to action for Man Utd after a previous bout with injuryCredit: PAThe full-back made three appearances from the bench against Ipswich Town, Bodo/Glimt and Everton since his return to fitness.However, the England international suffered another minor injury after the weekend.Shaw issued a heartbreaking message to fans outlining the painful impact this devastating setback has had on him.The defender vowed to come back stronger as soon as possible to help United.Read More on Man UtdShaw posted on Instagram: “Hi guys, it’s hurting a lot having to write this as I really thought I had got through my recent struggles and was on a positive path going forward, but unfortunately I’ve had a small setback.”I’ve been through a lot of ups and downs but this has definitely been my toughest period. I’m absolutely devastated and it’s extremely tough to come to terms with reality at this moment in time.”I understand there is going to be people frustrated, angry, disappointed and I understand all of that. There is no one feeling that more than me at this moment in time..”But what I can promise is I will do everything I can to come back better soon to help this club achieve its ambitions this season. Thank you to everyone for the support. It really doesn’t go unnoticed and I really do appreciate it.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAccording to Manchester Evening News, Shaw suffered a muscle injury and is expected to be out for a few weeks.That means new Man Utd manager Ruben Amorim will be without the left-back against Arsenal.Ruben Amorim bizarrely SLAPS Man Utd stars in training as fans joke ‘I hope Luke Shaw doesn’t get injured’The Red Devils face the Gunners on Wednesday at the Emirates in a crunch Premier League clash.Under Amorim, the Manchester giants are undefeated with two wins in his first three matches in charge.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More

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      Man Utd ‘eye Italy Euro 2020-winning goalkeeper in shock free transfer’ as fans question Andre Onana’s future

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are interested in signing Napoli goalkeeper Alex Meret, according to reports.Meret, 27, will be out of contract at the end of the season.Alex Meret has been linked with Man UtdCredit: GettyThe Italian has remained Napoli’s No1 despite uncertainty surrounding his future.And he has done his stock no harm so far this term, helping Antonio Conte’s side top the Serie A table.According to Sky reporter Florian Plettenberg, Man Utd are one of several teams interested in signing Meret.Links with the Napoli stopper have caught several supporters off guard.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSMan Utd No1 Andre Onana has been in good form this season, having settled into life at Old Trafford.And fans believe it would be strange to recruit a stopper unlikely to be happy with being back-up.One wrote on social media: “United? Meret will not come to be a no2.”While a second pointed to current deputy Altay Bayindir, saying: “If Bayindir is too good to be a number 2 then surely this guy is too.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMoment huge brawl breaks out in West Ham end with punches thrown and fan knocked to ground in London derby vs ArsenalOnana, 28, has kept six clean sheets in 13 Premier League appearances this season.He has played 70 times for the Red Devils in total since signing from Inter Milan.His No2 Bayindir, meanwhile, has made just three appearances in 18 months since signing for United, with Onana still preferred for the majority of cup matches.Should Man Utd turn their interest in Meret into a serious pursuit, they will face tough competition.Inter Milan are said to be one of several European sides chasing the goalkeeper’s signature.Since Onana’s departure, Yann Sommer has been Inter’s No1.Club chiefs may see Meret as an instant upgrade, particularly with Sommer aged 35.The three-cap Italy international, who was part of their Euro 2020-winning squad, has played for Napoli since joining from hometown team Udinese in 2018.He has kept 63 clean sheets in 189 appearances for Napoli, and has helped them to Serie A title and Coppa Italia successes.Altay Bayindir has played just three times for Man UtdCredit: Getty More

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      Ex-Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag ‘targeted for managerial return in Champions League’ with old rival likely to have say

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      ERIK TEN HAG has reportedly emerged as a managerial target for Bundesliga giants RB Leipzig.The Dutchman was dismissed by Manchester United in October following a disastrous start to the Premier League season.Erik ten Hag has emerged as a potential target for RB LeipzigCredit: PARB Leipzig manager Marco Rose has come under increasing pressure in recent weeksCredit: AlamyIn the wake of his Old Trafford exit, Ten Hag has been enjoying some time away from the dugout.But he could be set for a swift managerial return with RB Leipzig.Patrick Berger of Sky Germany claims the 54-year-old is being considered as a potential replacement for Marco Rose, who has found himself under pressure in recent weeks.Leipzig currently sit fourth in the Bundesliga table, nine points adrift of leaders Bayern Munich.Read More on Man UtdThe Red Bulls are also yet to earn a point in the Champions League this season.And they have not won a match in over a month.Should Rose leave the Red Bull Arena, Ten Hag is understood to be in line to replace him.The prospective move would see him reunite with former rival Jurgen Klopp.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSJurgen Klopp was recently appointed as the Global Head of Football at Red BullCredit: APKlopp was appointed as the Global Head of Football at Red Bull in October.His new role, set to come into effect next month, will see the former Liverpool boss responsible for guiding philosophy and the development of young players, as well as advising on transfers and managerial appointments.Ex-Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp talks about his new role at Red Bull Ten Hag isn’t the only manager being considered for the RB Leipzig job.Ex-Benfica boss Roger Schmidt is also in the frame.Schmidt previously spent two years with RB Salzburg, also owned by Red Bull, in Austria between 2012 and 2014.However, the 57-year-old German is reluctant to accept a new job mid-season.Ten Hag’s managerial recordGo Ahead Eagles:Matches: 39Wins: 19Draws: 10Losses: 10Bayern Munich II:Matches: 72Wins: 48Draws: 10Losses: 14Utrecht:Matches: 111Wins: 56Draws: 25Losses: 30Ajax:Matches: 215Wins: 159Draws: 27Losses: 29Manchester United: Matches: 128Wins: 72Draws: 20Losses: 36Trophies:FA Cup: 2023-24 (Man Utd)Carabao Cup: 2022-23 (Man Utd)Eredivisie: 2021-22, 2020-21. 2018-19 (Ajax)Dutch Cup: 2020-21, 2018-19 (Ajax)Dutch Super Cup: 2019-20 (Ajax) More

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      Ex-Man Utd star Ashley Young could face his SON in FA Cup third round as Everton ace says ‘dreams might come true’

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      EVERTON star Ashley Young may face his 18-year-old son Tyler in the FA Cup.The Toffees drew Peterborough United in the third round and will face off on the weekend of January 11 at Goodison Park.Everton star Ashley Young may face his 18-year-old son Tyler in the FA CupCredit: GettyAshley could lock horns against his child, who is currently part of Peterborough UnitedCredit: RexThat means ex-Manchester United ace Ashley, 39, could lock horns against his child, who is currently part of the League One outfit’s Under-21 side.Everton’s versatile full-back is very excited about that prospect as he took to social media and stated a great family dream could soon come true.Ashley tweeted: “WOW………. Dreams Might Come True.#FaCup #GoosebumpsMoment #YoungVsYoung.”Fans are also looking forward to that potential clash between father and son.Read More on FootballOne supporter tweeted: “Hoping you play against him mate! Would be a dream for you! Wish you the best!”Another commented: “The Young Derby.”A third wrote: “Football is really special. What a scene that’d be!”This fan said: “That’s brilliant. Hope it happens for you both.”Most read in FA CupAnd that one issued the following hashtag: “#YoungvsOld.”Tyler joined Peterborough from Queens Park Rangers’ Under-18s last summer.Meet non-league star with longest throw in football who plans to put it to good use in FA Cup giant killingThe midfielder counts only one senior appearance with the Posh, which took place in the EFL Trophy. More

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      Fans claim FA Cup draw is ‘rigged’ as Man City and Liverpool get lower league opponents but Man Utd face Arsenal

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      THE FA CUP third round draw led to furious reactions from a few disappointed fans, with some going as far as to describe it as “rigged”.The third round draw’s most exciting tie is between Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester United, who will face off on the weekend of January 11 at the Emirates.Some angry fans claim the FA Cup draw is ‘rigged’Arsenal drew Manchester United and their rivals are facing lower-league teamsIn contrast, Arsenal and United’s rivals were drawn against lower-league opponents.Manchester City got Salford, Chelsea drew Morecambe, Liverpool were paired with Accrington Stanley and Tottenham will face Tamworth.And some fans believe the difference of quality between those ties makes the draw, which was conducted by former Manchester United players Mark Hughes and Dion Dublin, look suspicious.One fan tweeted: “Absolutely f*****g rigged.”Read More on FootballAnother commented: “That’s fixed. Arsenal vs Utd. I’m sure he (Dublin or Hughes) didn’t even mix them around.”A third wrote: “Watching the FA Cup draw and what the hell.”This fan said: “City vs Salford. Liverpool vs Accrington. Chelsea vs Morecambe… Arsenal vs United. Of course.”And that one stated: “Calling fix, United getting drawn away to Arsenal, City getting Salford at home and Liverpool getting an effective nobody.”Most read in FA CupThe draw was conducted at Old TraffordMark Hughes and Dion Dublin pulled out the ballsBut of course there is absolutely no indication that supports those wild claims.Man Utd won the FA Cup last season thanks to a 2-1 win over rivals Man City in the Wembley final, which saved former manager Erik ten Hag’s job.Arsenal v Man Utd FA Cup historyAFTER drawing each other in the third round of the FA Cup, it will be the 17th time Arsenal and Manchester United have faced off in the competition.They previously met in the 1997 and 2005 finals, both won by Arsenal.The last match came in 2019, which was won by United.Overall Arsenal have six wins while United have eight, while they share two draws.United’s tally of 22 goals is also superior to Arsenal’s 20 in these games.Wayne Rooney is the top scorer in the fixture, with three of his goals against the North London side coming in the FA Cup.Bukayo Saka leads Arsenal’s tally at the moment with six goals, though these have all been in the Premier League.Bizarre moment man dressed as Elsa from Frozen sings Let It Go karaoke on pitch ahead of FA Cup first-round clashThe Red Devils will be facing the most successful team in the competition’s history, with Arsenal winning the trophy a record 14 times.However, if Ruben Amorim’s side were to go all the way they would draw level with the Gunners’ total. More