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      Gary Neville insists Gareth Southgate to Man Utd ‘CAN’T happen’ for two reasons as he backs Ten Hag to stay

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      GARY NEVILLE has insisted that a Gareth Southgate move to Manchester United cannot happen.Current Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag is staring down the sack at the end of the season after a dismal year with Man Utd that is set to see them end with their worst ever Premier League result.Gareth Southgate has been linked with the Man Utd jobCredit: PABut club legend Gary Neville has revealed two reasons why he does not expect the move to happenCredit: GettyThe new sporting leadership at Old Trafford in Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have big plans for the club including a stadium upgrade.Major changes have already occurred behind the scenes, and this is expected to extend to the managerial dugout when the season finishes.England boss Southgate was tipped as one of the potential replacements for Ten Hag, along with names such as Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter.However, Man Utd legend Neville believes the move cannot happen for two reasons.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking on latest episode of Stick to Football, brought to you by Sky Bet, Neville said: “I’ve come to the conclusion Southgate [to Man Utd] can’t happen.”There’s no way Man Utd can wait until July, mid-July when pre-season has already started. They’ll look like they don’t what they’re doing.SunSport’s verdict on Man Utd flopsSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have a busy summer ahead to get Man Utd’s squad in order for next season. Below SunSport gives it verdict on how they should deal with the Red Devils flops this summer.
      Andre Onana – STAY: After a dodgy start at Old Trafford Onana has proven to be one of the more reliable members of the squad this season despite being peppered with shots constantly.
      Altay Bayindir – GO: Reports in February suggested Bayindir was unhappy with his bit part role at Man Utd amid interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray. If profit can be made on a sale then it should be done.
      Tom Heaton – STAY: Veteran goalkeeper Heaton, 38, is a reliable back-up and is on a relatively small wage at the club. So long as he is happy it makes sense to keep him.
      Aaron Wan-Bissaka – GO: Wan-Bissaka, 26, has never managed to make the right-back position his own. With his contract up in 2025 it makes sense to cash in now.
      Diogo Dalot – STAY: Dalot, 26, has been one of Man Utd’s most consistent performers this season.
      Raphael Varane – GO: If it wasn’t for his injury record there would be a strong shout to keep Varane, but costs need to be cut to allow the squad to be freshened up.
      Harry Maguire – GO: Maguire has showed he has the right character to be at Man Utd but overall ability and desired profile are another matter, with Maguire too slow to play in a high line defence.
      Lisandro Martinez – STAY: Martinez, 26, is second to none in terms of build up play. He needs a long-term defensive partner on the right side and to cut out the injuries which have plagued him this season.
      Jonny Evans – GO: Veteran campaigner Evans could easily be on the stay list if he was only going to be a bit part player. But he has shown his advanced years at times this season.
      Victor Lindelof – GO:  Lindelof, 29, has been reliable if not unremarkable in his Man Utd career. He has one year left on his contract so should be moved on if a decent transfer fee can be got for him.
      Willy Kambwala – STAY: He should be given the opportunity to mature for a few years behind a senior CB pairing before stepping into the first team as a starter or being moved on.
      Luke Shaw – GO: One of the Premier League’s best left-backs when fit, Shaw has been a good servant when available. But alas that has been his Achilles heel once again this season.
      Tyrell Malacia – STAY: Malacia, 24, was decent enough to earn some merit in his first season at Man Utd before injury ended his season and inadvertently led to his second season being a write off.
      Sofyan Amrabat – GO: Amrabat, 27, looked like a world beater at the Qatar World Cup with Morocco. But he’s had an underwhelming season in England and his loan spell will almost certainly not be made permanent.
      Casemiro – GO: An alarming physical decline has seen him turn from key star to burden. If a club is willing to buy the 32-year-old – who has two more years on his contract – then United should snatch their hand off.
      Christian Eriksen – GO: Eriksen proved a useful asset and Ineos should look to bring in another player with similar traits, but frankly his legs have looked gone towards the end of this season.
      Kobbie Mainoo – STAY: The first of the so-called untouchables, Mainoo has been a rare glimmer of hope in the Red Devils midfield this season.
      Mason Mount – STAY: Mount can be given the benefit of the doubt until summer 2025 at least after a debut season riddled with injury.
      Scott McTominay – STAY: McTominay, 27, has proven himself to be a brilliant plan B off the bench this season, and that is exactly why Ineos should look to keep him.
      Bruno Fernandes – STAY: Man Utd’s best player since his arrival just over four years ago, Fernandes, 29, remains second-to-none when it comes to creating chances while his tenacity boosts those around him.
      Antony – GO: There’s a case to argue that Antony may be the worst pound-for-pound signing in Premier League history. Despite some memorable moments he simply isn’t Man Utd quality.
      Anthony Martial – GO: Ultimately Martial needs to be let go when his deal runs out this summer after an appalling injury record of late.
      Marcus Rashford – STAY: As easy as it would be to say Rashford should leave the club this summer, it is difficult to look at the market and find many available players capable of scoring 30 goals a season.
      Alejandro Garnacho – STAY: Another third of the untouchables trio, Garnacho has made the right-wing his own since coming into it. He’s a raw talent but has shown he has the quality to improve.
      Rasmus Hojlund – STAY: A slow burner in his first Man Utd season, the 21-year-old has often been starved of supply which has led to him being unable to get the goals his movement and unselfish play often merits.
      Amad Diallo – STAY: In the fleeting moments he has been on the pitch for Man Utd this season, Diallo has looked dangerous and exciting. He should be given a chance to flourish with some proper chances in the first team across a whole season.

      “And there’s no way Gareth can announce before a major tournament that he’s going to Man Utd. It would create absolute (chaos), he won’t do that. “Honestly, you know Gareth, I know Gareth, there’s no way in a weeks time we’re going to see an announcement of Southgate’s leaving England after the tournament to go to Man Utd.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”That would create absolute turbulence in the England squad for a month. He’s not going to do that to the FA or to the England players and create that huge distraction.”You’re going to have a nightmare scenario. In my opinion that’s not happening. It could, but I don’t think that’s happening.Man Utd legend Gary Neville gives verdict on Gareth Southgate to Old Trafford rumours as Erik ten Hag fights for job “I think the likelihood of them naming him in July after the tournament, it’ll become pretty obvious then that Man Utd are waiting for Southgate to finish which will become equally as bad.”I can’t see that happening for those reasons.”However, Neville also revealed who he believed would be the Man Utd boss come next season.He said: “I think actually they will stick with the manager.”After Monday’s 4-0 thrashing against Crystal Palace, Man Utd face Arsenal, Newcastle and Brighton on their Premier League run-in before the FA Cup final against Manchester City.Pundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?
      Michael Owen – He has to go
      “He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
      Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
      “If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.” More

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      Unemployed David De Gea has Man Utd fans saying ‘bring him back’ as they spot subtle detail in training video

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans were struggling to hold back the tears after noticing a subtle detail in David De Gea’s latest training video.The 33-year-old Spanish goalie was part of the last title-winning Manchester United squad but has been without a club all season.David De Gea has shared more footage of himself training while waiting for a new clubCredit: X @TenHagBallThe Spaniard was working with three coaches in his latest social media videoCredit: X @TenHagBallDe Gea was spotted wearing a Man Utd training topCredit: X @TenHagBallThe Spanish stopper has been a free agent since leaving Utd last summerCredit: PAHe exited Old Trafford as a free agent last summer following a 12-year spell – that is despite winning the Premier League Golden Glove last term.The Red Devils infamously released De Gea on his wedding day in June and he is still yet to sign for a new club.He had been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia and Newcastle over recent months but a switch failed to materialise.Then more recent reports have emerged that he could be heading back to his homeland to join Real Betis.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLDe Gea has stayed in Manchester throughout his time out and watched United’s women play this term.However, the Spain international has stayed in shape by training alone.Last month he teased a return by issuing a three-word update on his future along with a clip of himself at work.That footage was shot at his local non-league side Altrincham, who are in the National League.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNow he has shared more videos of himself working on his shot stopping along with three coaches out on the grass.Eagle-eyed viewers of his Insta story spotted that he was wearing his old United training kit, and it must have evoked several emotions.David De Gea trains at English club as unemployed former Man Utd star hints at comebackOne fan said: “Wow he’s part of united.”Another, referencing United’s upcoming FA Cup final with Man City, said: “Bring him back for the final.”A third offered: “Once a red always a red.”Edwin’s supportMeanwhile, United legend Edwin van der Sar recently offered the ex-Atletico Madrid ace his support.The ex-goalie recalled how he was in a similar scenario after leaving Juventus in 2001 but eventually joined Fulham before heading to Old Trafford and winning the Champions League.Replying to another training clip posted by De Gea, Van der Sar wrote: “David, keep the faith and believe as I had something similar in 2001 and look what that brought me in the end!”Meanwhile, Liverpool legend Graeme Souness recently suggested that United boss Erik ten Hag made a mistake in letting the stopper leave on a free and bringing in Andre Onana.SunSport’s verdict on Man Utd flopsSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have a busy summer ahead to get Man Utd’s squad in order for next season. Below SunSport gives it verdict on how they should deal with the Red Devils flops this summer.
      Andre Onana – STAY: After a dodgy start at Old Trafford Onana has proven to be one of the more reliable members of the squad this season despite being peppered with shots constantly.
      Altay Bayindir – GO: Reports in February suggested Bayindir was unhappy with his bit part role at Man Utd amid interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray. If profit can be made on a sale then it should be done.
      Tom Heaton – STAY: Veteran goalkeeper Heaton, 38, is a reliable back-up and is on a relatively small wage at the club. So long as he is happy it makes sense to keep him.
      Aaron Wan-Bissaka – GO: Wan-Bissaka, 26, has never managed to make the right-back position his own. With his contract up in 2025 it makes sense to cash in now.
      Diogo Dalot – STAY: Dalot, 26, has been one of Man Utd’s most consistent performers this season.
      Raphael Varane – GO: If it wasn’t for his injury record there would be a strong shout to keep Varane, but costs need to be cut to allow the squad to be freshened up.
      Harry Maguire – GO: Maguire has showed he has the right character to be at Man Utd but overall ability and desired profile are another matter, with Maguire too slow to play in a high line defence.
      Lisandro Martinez – STAY: Martinez, 26, is second to none in terms of build up play. He needs a long-term defensive partner on the right side and to cut out the injuries which have plagued him this season.
      Jonny Evans – GO: Veteran campaigner Evans could easily be on the stay list if he was only going to be a bit part player. But he has shown his advanced years at times this season.
      Victor Lindelof – GO:  Lindelof, 29, has been reliable if not unremarkable in his Man Utd career. He has one year left on his contract so should be moved on if a decent transfer fee can be got for him.
      Willy Kambwala – STAY: He should be given the opportunity to mature for a few years behind a senior CB pairing before stepping into the first team as a starter or being moved on.
      Luke Shaw – GO: One of the Premier League’s best left-backs when fit, Shaw has been a good servant when available. But alas that has been his Achilles heel once again this season.
      Tyrell Malacia – STAY: Malacia, 24, was decent enough to earn some merit in his first season at Man Utd before injury ended his season and inadvertently led to his second season being a write off.
      Sofyan Amrabat – GO: Amrabat, 27, looked like a world beater at the Qatar World Cup with Morocco. But he’s had an underwhelming season in England and his loan spell will almost certainly not be made permanent.
      Casemiro – GO: An alarming physical decline has seen him turn from key star to burden. If a club is willing to buy the 32-year-old – who has two more years on his contract – then United should snatch their hand off.
      Christian Eriksen – GO: Eriksen proved a useful asset and Ineos should look to bring in another player with similar traits, but frankly his legs have looked gone towards the end of this season.
      Kobbie Mainoo – STAY: The first of the so-called untouchables, Mainoo has been a rare glimmer of hope in the Red Devils midfield this season.
      Mason Mount – STAY: Mount can be given the benefit of the doubt until summer 2025 at least after a debut season riddled with injury.
      Scott McTominay – STAY: McTominay, 27, has proven himself to be a brilliant plan B off the bench this season, and that is exactly why Ineos should look to keep him.
      Bruno Fernandes – STAY: Man Utd’s best player since his arrival just over four years ago, Fernandes, 29, remains second-to-none when it comes to creating chances while his tenacity boosts those around him.
      Antony – GO: There’s a case to argue that Antony may be the worst pound-for-pound signing in Premier League history. Despite some memorable moments he simply isn’t Man Utd quality.
      Anthony Martial – GO: Ultimately Martial needs to be let go when his deal runs out this summer after an appalling injury record of late.
      Marcus Rashford – STAY: As easy as it would be to say Rashford should leave the club this summer, it is difficult to look at the market and find many available players capable of scoring 30 goals a season.
      Alejandro Garnacho – STAY: Another third of the untouchables trio, Garnacho has made the right-wing his own since coming into it. He’s a raw talent but has shown he has the quality to improve.
      Rasmus Hojlund – STAY: A slow burner in his first Man Utd season, the 21-year-old has often been starved of supply which has led to him being unable to get the goals his movement and unselfish play often merits.
      Amad Diallo – STAY: In the fleeting moments he has been on the pitch for Man Utd this season, Diallo has looked dangerous and exciting. He should be given a chance to flourish with some proper chances in the first team across a whole season.

      He said: “You need to prioritise. You have to try and strengthen where you really need players.“Did they really, really need to spend that money on a goalkeeper when they had De Gea who was still a very good goalkeeper for Man United?“De Gea was still a top goalkeeper. Every goalkeeper will make a mistake.READ MORE SUN STORIES“They’ve spent £70m [£47.2m] on a new goalkeeper but are they really playing any differently now, just because Onana is better on the ball?“That money should have been spent elsewhere and been more productive. The recruitment has been pretty average.”David De Gea’s trophy haulHere’s every honour that the Spanish star has on his CV:
      Club:
      Atletico Madrid
      Europa League (2010)
      Uefa Super Cup (2010)
      Man Utd
      Premier League (2013)
      FA Cup (2016)
      League Cup (2017, 2023)
      Europa League (2017)
      International:
      Spain
      U21 European Championship (2011, 2013) More

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      David Beckham fires stern warning to Man Utd flops ahead of FA Cup final against Man City

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      DAVID BECKHAM says Manchester United’s players must shoulder the burden in their FA Cup final showdown with Manchester City.Old Trafford chief Erik ten Hag is under immense pressure after a nightmare season.David Beckham thinks Manchester United’s players shouldn’t need any extra motivationErik ten Hag has struggled to get the best out of his flopsCredit: AlamyManchester United celebrate winning the Treble in 1999Credit: GettyBut United legend Beckham, 49, thinks the onus is on underperforming stars to remember what it means to wear the shirt.Asked what Ten Hag can do to rally the squad, he told talkSPORT’s Shebahn Aherne: “You’d hope that the manager doesn’t have to do much.”I think that’s the whole point of being a Manchester United player and playing in these big games. “You know you should be motivated when you’re a professional footballer and you’re doing the job job that you love and you’re at the club that you love.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”Whether it’s a regular season game or whether it’s an FA Cup final against your rivals, that that should be enough motivation.”If it’s not then you’re in the wrong team and you’re playing the wrong sport.”Beckham was speaking at the premiere of Prime Video’s docu-series about United’s famous Treble in 1999.The current crop are some way off emulating Sir Alex Ferguson’s icons as they sit eighth in the Premier League.Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut they can end the season on a high by beating a formidable City side at Wembley on May 25.Beckham added: “I think at the end of the day, we went into every game, wherever it was a youth Cup game, a friendly or a European Cup final with the same mentality and the same drive.Watch spine-tingling trailer for 99 as three-part Prime Video documentary goes behind the scenes of Man Utd’s Treble win”That’s what you’d hope any team and any player for Manchester United, go into an FA Cup final with.”I hope the current players can take inspiration from our achievements.”Fans heading to Printworks to watch the Amazon show will be greeted by an unfortunate sight.Manchester City star Erling Haaland’s face is plastered on a huge billboard above the entrance to the venue advertising the his latest venture.Its tagline reads: “He stole your trophies. Steal his gold.” More

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      Thomas Tuchel could face Uefa BAN handing Man Utd major dilemma over managerial target

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      THOMAS TUCHEL could face a Uefa ban for his Real Madrid ref rage.And that might mean the German is unable to take charge of Manchester United’s next European game if he gets the Old Trafford job.Thomas Tuchel was fuming over a late offside flag in Bayern’s defeat at MadridCredit: ReutersTuchel was left fuming last night after Real Madrid produced a stunning late comeback to beat Bayern Munich 2-1 to reach the Champions League final where they’ll face Borussia Dortmund.The former Chelsea chief is still the bookies’ favourite to replace Erik ten Hag despite Bayern Munich’s failure to win a trophy for the first time since 2012.And the threat of a Euro ban is now hanging over him after he launched a post-match attack on the Polish officials after Wednesday’s controversial exit.Assistant ref Tomasz Listkiewicz raised the flag against Noussair Mazraoui when the ball was lofted into the Madrid box in stoppage time.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAs the ball was nodded down by Thomas Muller for Matthijs de Ligt to fire home, 2022 World Cup Final ref Szymon Marciniak blew the whistle, ruling out the goal.Video images suggest the Bayern player was onside but the call was so tight that the flag should not have gone up so soon.Bayern players were flabbergasted, with Dutch defender de Ligt revealing both officials had apologised to him.In his post-match press conference, Tuchel said “It’s against every rule of modern football.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”He did it against Alfonso Davies as well, when he could never be sure.”To have the balls, the guts, to raise the flag was a huge call and the wrong call.Watch Antonio Rudiger bring back iconic Chelsea chair celebration in wild scenes after Real Madrid win vs Bayern Munich”Then the referee had the chance not to whistle but took the decision to whistle.”That would not have happened on the other side.”Uefa’s Control and Disciplinary Body could now step in and charge Tuchel for accusing the two officials of bias against his side.A decision is likely by the start of next week, although the fact that both officials did admit to an error is likely to see Tuchel avoid any action.Even if he were to be punished, it still might not affect him next season if he takes over at United.The Red Devils are currently sitting eighth in the Premier League table and face a fight to qualify for European football via the league.But they do also have the opportunity to reach the Europa League when they take on Man City in the FA Cup Final at Wembley on May 25.Meanwhile, fans joked that Tuchel had “passed his Man Utd audition” after a number of substitutions backfired spectacularly at the Bernabeu.Bayern looked to be going through after a rocket from Alphonso Davies put them ahead with just 22 minutes to go.Pundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?
      Michael Owen – He has to go
      “He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
      Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
      “If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”

      They looked to be comfortable heading towards full time and holding Madrid at bay until disaster struck.Real sub Joselu grabbed an 88th-minute equaliser after latching on to a mistake from Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.Then seconds later the ex-Stoke City and Newcastle flop finished from six yards to win it 2-1.The 34-year-old Spaniard’s introduction proved to be a masterstroke – but that was not the only substitution that proved to be a major talking point.Firstly, Tuchel brought on Kim Min-jae for attacker Leroy Sane on 76 minutes despite the South Korean’s nightmare in last week’s first leg, switching to three at the back.But it was the decision to replace 44-goal top scorer Kane, who is still waiting for his first-piece of silverware, with Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting on 86 minutes that left everyone baffled.However, Tuchel told TNT Sports afterwards that the controversial changes were due to injury.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “We started with a front four and all four has to go out with injury or cramp.“Kane was having back problems, it was no longer possible. The front four all said they had to go.”His decision to replace Harry Kane led to fierce criticismCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd looking to sign first Mozambique star in Premier League history but face transfer fight with Aston Villa

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are considering a cut-price transfer swoop for Reinildo – but face a fight from Aston Villa.The Mozambique international left-back, 30, only has a year remaining on his Atletico Madrid contract.Atletico Madrid left-back Reinildo is on the radar of Man Utd and Aston VillaCredit: Kenny RamsayThat means he could be available for around £8million this summer.Reinildo moved to the LaLiga giants in 2022 from Lille after helping the French club to win Ligue 1.However, he suffered a cruciate ligament tear in February 2023 that ruled him out until November.Since his return he has only featured 15 times for Diego Simeone’s side and could now be available on the cheap.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSunSport can reveal that he is on the radar of both Man Utd and Aston Villa.Juventus have also been monitoring him for several months and could join in the chase to sign him.United boss Erik ten Hag, whose own future at Old Trafford remains unclear after a dire campaign, stated last week that a left-back could be one of their top targets.The position has proven to be a nightmare for United this term with Tyrell Malacia out for the whole campaign while Luke Shaw’s injury issues have restricted him to only 15 appearances.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTen Hag said: “Left back depends on availability from Luke Shaw, he will be fit.“He is returning already on the pitch, we expect him back in coming weeks, but with Malacia it depends on his availability.”Sir Jim Ratcliffe warns Man Utd fans not to expect superstar signings as he lays out transfer planThat means that Reinildo could turn into an attractive, and affordable, proposition for the Red Devils as an extra reinforcement for their squad.But they may miss out if Unai Emery attempts to bring him to the Premier League himself with Villa almost certain to be able to offer Champions League football.Any potential arrival would also create a small piece of history.Reinildo would become the first star from Mozambique to play in the Premier League should he arrive on these shores. More

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      Strict Sir Jim Ratcliffe tells all Man Utd staff they must return to office as training ground atmosphere ‘turns toxic’

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has ordered Manchester United staff to return to the office from next month.SunSport exclusively revealed that the British billionaire has turned the training ground “toxic” after slamming the cleanliness of the facilities.Staff at Man Utd have been ordered to return working from the office by June 1Credit: ReutersSir Jim Ratcliffe has turned the training ground ‘toxic’ with his changesCredit: GettyThe part-owner recently sent out a memo to all staff declaring his disappointment after a tour of their HQ.That came after staff had their FA Cup Final treats of free tickets, travel and lunch revoked to save money.Our report then also revealed that some staff who had been able to work from home have been told to get into the offices either in Manchester or London.Ratcliffe claims that email traffic dropped by 20 per cent at one of his other companies when they experimented with Fridays working from home.READ MORE ON MAN UTDA staff meeting took place last week where employees were bluntly told by the strict Ratcliffe: “If you don’t like it, please seek alternative employment.”Staff must return to the office permanently by June 1, despite some pushback from United’s interim CEO Patrick Stewart.He had looked to try and protect the flexible arrangement but his impending departure from Old Trafford was announced last week.United’s internal communications team sent out an email this week that said Ineos “are taking the time to review all aspects of how we operate as a club.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIt then read: “Part of this is looking at how we work—how we create a high-performance environment where everyone can be their best, working together towards our common goal of football success.“The key to achieving this goal is connection and collaboration. Everyone coming together as a collective to share skills, knowledge and ideas, building on the best of what we already do and looking at where we need to change and innovate.Inside Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s amazing lifestyle“We believe this connection and collaboration is best achieved when everyone works together in close proximity. Although hybrid working has some benefits, it cannot replace the value of people being physically together.“With this in mind, we will be asking all colleagues who currently have hybrid working arrangements to return to the office permanently.”However, SunSport understands that spacing could potentially be an issue.Office issuesThe club’s office spaces have undergone a refurb over the past 12 months – but they were designed with those flexible working arrangements in mind.That means that currently there are not enough desks at both their Manchester and London offices to fit each member of staff in.Ratcliffe and Ineos have taken over football operations at Old Trafford having paid £1.03bn for a 27.7 per cent stake in the club.The 71-year-old and Ineos Director of Sport Sir Dave Brailsford have since quickly set about trying to rebuild the whole club from top to bottom.United confirmed the appointment of Jason Wilcox as technical director last month from Southampton.Pundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?
      Michael Owen – He has to go
      “He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
      Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
      “If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”

      That came after they announced ex-Man City man Omar Berrada as their new chief executive.And a new sporting director is yet to be officially appointed but is expected to be Newcastle’s Dan Ashworth, who is on gardening leave, with more talks to thrash out compensation set to take place.Ratcliffe and Brailsford are also hoping to make huge strides on the pitch – and that will start with a huge clearout of the playing squad.United will “listen to offers” for all but THREE of their squad in this summer’s transfer window with only young trio Kobbie Mainoo, Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho not up for grabs.READ MORE SUN STORIESPressure is also mounting on boss Erik ten Hag after Monday’s 4-0 mauling at Crystal Palace left them sitting eighth in the table.He is expected to remain in charge until after the FA Cup Final against Man City, but many seem certain that could be his final match in charge. More

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      Man Utd fans say ‘pray for Arsenal’ as two key stars return to training just days before crucial clash

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans have said “pray for Arsenal” after two key stars returned to training.That’s after the club announced that both Marcus Rashford and Lisandro Martinez were fit enough to join up with the squad again on X.Martinez is making a much needed return to trainingCredit: GettyRashford is also set to return from an unknown injury which ruled him out of United’s game against PalaceCredit: RexMartinez’s return in particular couldn’t come soon enough.United’s injury crisis has hit their defence particularly hard, with Erik ten Hag forced to pick Casemiro and Jonny Evans at the heart of his defence on Monday against Crystal Palace.That saw the Red Devils swept aside easily with Palace racking up a 4-0 victory.Rashford meanwhile suffered an unknown injury which forced him to miss the Palace game.READ MORE ON MAN UTDWhether his presence in that game would have made a difference seems unlikely.Regardless of that, United fans feel his presence back in training will make all the difference.One fan replied to the update on Manchester United’s X account said: “Pray for arsenal.”Another reacted positively and said: “Licha 🤩 [Martinez’s nickname]”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA third said: “Rashford should rush to own Arsenal again.”A fourth wrote: “Arsenals owners are back.”Manchester United’s fall from glory since Sir Alex Ferguson While a fifth said: “Ready to stop Arsenal😂😂”It comes as United’s players were hauled in for early morning training by Erik ten Hag today.Several players were looking incredibly glum behind the wheels of their cars.United take on Arsenal on Sunday at 4:30pm.SunSport’s verdict on Man Utd flopsSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have a busy summer ahead to get Man Utd’s squad in order for next season. Below SunSport gives it verdict on how they should deal with the Red Devils flops this summer.
      Andre Onana – STAY: After a dodgy start at Old Trafford Onana has proven to be one of the more reliable members of the squad this season despite being peppered with shots constantly.
      Altay Bayindir – GO: Reports in February suggested Bayindir was unhappy with his bit part role at Man Utd amid interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray. If profit can be made on a sale then it should be done.
      Tom Heaton – STAY: Veteran goalkeeper Heaton, 38, is a reliable back-up and is on a relatively small wage at the club. So long as he is happy it makes sense to keep him.
      Aaron Wan-Bissaka – GO: Wan-Bissaka, 26, has never managed to make the right-back position his own. With his contract up in 2025 it makes sense to cash in now.
      Diogo Dalot – STAY: Dalot, 26, has been one of Man Utd’s most consistent performers this season.
      Raphael Varane – GO: If it wasn’t for his injury record there would be a strong shout to keep Varane, but costs need to be cut to allow the squad to be freshened up.
      Harry Maguire – GO: Maguire has showed he has the right character to be at Man Utd but overall ability and desired profile are another matter, with Maguire too slow to play in a high line defence.
      Lisandro Martinez – STAY: Martinez, 26, is second to none in terms of build up play. He needs a long-term defensive partner on the right side and to cut out the injuries which have plagued him this season.
      Jonny Evans – GO: Veteran campaigner Evans could easily be on the stay list if he was only going to be a bit part player. But he has shown his advanced years at times this season.
      Victor Lindelof – GO:  Lindelof, 29, has been reliable if not unremarkable in his Man Utd career. He has one year left on his contract so should be moved on if a decent transfer fee can be got for him.
      Willy Kambwala – STAY: He should be given the opportunity to mature for a few years behind a senior CB pairing before stepping into the first team as a starter or being moved on.
      Luke Shaw – GO: One of the Premier League’s best left-backs when fit, Shaw has been a good servant when available. But alas that has been his Achilles heel once again this season.
      Tyrell Malacia – STAY: Malacia, 24, was decent enough to earn some merit in his first season at Man Utd before injury ended his season and inadvertently led to his second season being a write off.
      Sofyan Amrabat – GO: Amrabat, 27, looked like a world beater at the Qatar World Cup with Morocco. But he’s had an underwhelming season in England and his loan spell will almost certainly not be made permanent.
      Casemiro – GO: An alarming physical decline has seen him turn from key star to burden. If a club is willing to buy the 32-year-old – who has two more years on his contract – then United should snatch their hand off.
      Christian Eriksen – GO: Eriksen proved a useful asset and Ineos should look to bring in another player with similar traits, but frankly his legs have looked gone towards the end of this season.
      Kobbie Mainoo – STAY: The first of the so-called untouchables, Mainoo has been a rare glimmer of hope in the Red Devils midfield this season.
      Mason Mount – STAY: Mount can be given the benefit of the doubt until summer 2025 at least after a debut season riddled with injury.
      Scott McTominay – STAY: McTominay, 27, has proven himself to be a brilliant plan B off the bench this season, and that is exactly why Ineos should look to keep him.
      Bruno Fernandes – STAY: Man Utd’s best player since his arrival just over four years ago, Fernandes, 29, remains second-to-none when it comes to creating chances while his tenacity boosts those around him.
      Antony – GO: There’s a case to argue that Antony may be the worst pound-for-pound signing in Premier League history. Despite some memorable moments he simply isn’t Man Utd quality.
      Anthony Martial – GO: Ultimately Martial needs to be let go when his deal runs out this summer after an appalling injury record of late.
      Marcus Rashford – STAY: As easy as it would be to say Rashford should leave the club this summer, it is difficult to look at the market and find many available players capable of scoring 30 goals a season.
      Alejandro Garnacho – STAY: Another third of the untouchables trio, Garnacho has made the right-wing his own since coming into it. He’s a raw talent but has shown he has the quality to improve.
      Rasmus Hojlund – STAY: A slow burner in his first Man Utd season, the 21-year-old has often been starved of supply which has led to him being unable to get the goals his movement and unselfish play often merits.
      Amad Diallo – STAY: In the fleeting moments he has been on the pitch for Man Utd this season, Diallo has looked dangerous and exciting. He should be given a chance to flourish with some proper chances in the first team across a whole season. More

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      My dad played for Fergie’s Premier League title-winning teams.. I quit academy after two years for very different career

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Brian McClair’s son could have followed in his footsteps.The former striker, 60, spent 11 years at Old Trafford as a player and returned for more as a coach.Brian McClair poses with son Liam ahead of his testimonialCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdLiam McClair has branched out from the family businessHis son Liam was also on United’s books during Sir Alex Ferguson’s legendary reign – playing alongside the likes of Matty James and Federico Macheda.But injury problems derailed his career and he ended up featuring at Old Trafford via a different route.He told PlanetFootball: “I was 15 and had a few trial matches and signed a contract at the academy – it wasn’t a schoolboy one, so I continued to go to school at the same time.“I was involved with the Under-18s who Paul McGuinness was coaching, but predominantly I was injured.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I ripped a quad muscle just as I signed for them so I was out for about eight months with the rehab at Carrington, then I came back for a month or two, went to the Milk Cup, where we finished runners-up to Sao Paulo, I think, in 2007.“Then I had keyhole surgery on my ankle, which was down to a previous injury, so I was out for another eight months. So I wasn’t really in the team that much. I only ended up playing a handful of matches.“I was never selected enough to feel like I could play higher. I didn’t really establish myself enough, and by the time I came back from my second injury, I was training with players a few years below – the likes of Jesse Lingard and Ravel Morrison.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“I felt like the way I play changed due to the injuries and I wasn’t the same type of player, so I decided to stop playing after that.”Most read in FootballMcClair, 33, decided he was not going to make the grade at United and went to university.Paul Scholes has doubts over Ten Hag’s future at Man Utd And it was there he found a new profession.He added: “I always wanted to play football as a career, and music was something I did on the side. “I played piano and trumpet as a kid, took up guitar as a teenager and did my first gig at school when I was about 17, I just did one song – I did the same the following year.“Then I went to university to study sport in Liverpool and it wasn’t until my final year I pursued gigging and performing to make something more of what I was doing.“I got some success as BBC Introducing in Merseyside played a few of my songs and had me on their show quite early on and that encouraged me, so I moved back to Manchester, kept gigging from then and started doing music full-time in September 2015.”Can you name the famous fathers?
      McClair is now a singer-songwriter, who plays acoustic guitar and piano and his music has been played at the ground his dad made his name at.He explained: “It was pretty cool, it’s happened a few times.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s quite nice that every time I have a new song that’s been released they’ve always been supportive, which is part of their family ethos, so I’ve never been forgotten.“I was there when my song was played first, but I don’t think I’ve ever had one played at a win, so it might be a curse.” More