Sport

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares46 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘It’s pointless to continue’ – Andre Onana sensationally told to QUIT Man Utd by ex-star after nightmare errors

      by

      ANDRE ONANA should leave Manchester United if he fails to arrest his nightmare run of form.That is the verdict of former Old Trafford misfit Massimo Taibi, who went down in Red Devils folklore for a massive howler against Southampton’s Matt Le Tissier in 1999.Andre Onana should leave Man Utd according to one former Red DevilCredit: GettyOnana has made a number of errors in recent weeks including allowing a goal straight in from a cornerCredit: GettyThe verdict comes from ex-United goalie Massimo TaibiCredit: PA:Press AssociationTaibi was famous for allowing a Matt Le Tissier shot to squirm under him in 1999Cameroonian keeper Onana, 28, has had plenty of flak following a string of errors since his arrival from Inter Milan in July 2023. The bloopers culminated in a Boxing Day shocker when he was beaten direct from a Matheus Cunha corner in the defeat at Wolves.And ex-keeper Taibi, 54, reckons Onana might be better off resurrecting his career away from United.He said: “I’d be straight to the point and tell him, ‘Andre, you are one of the best keepers in Europe but in the Premier League, you are under- performing. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Block out criticism, do some soul-searching, press the reset and go again. And if things don’t change by June, move on’.“I think subconsciously the United environment isn’t ideal for him and when a marriage is showing cracks, it’s pointless to continue.“Sometimes things don’t work out at a team and it’s best to go separate ways, which would not be a failure. “For me he’s a strong goalkeeper who finds himself in a situation where he can’t show his skills because he is not cut out for the English game.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“He’s only suited to the Prem when it comes to his ball-playing ability and structure.”Taibi — who allowed Le Tissier’s long-range shot to go through his legs, into the net — believes Onana would excel in Italy or France.Francis Ngannou tackles Andre Onana to floor moments after Man Utd’s win over Bodo-GlimtAhead of tomorrow’s visit from Newcastle, he added: “Andre’s a better fit for an Italian or French team. For English football you need a goalkeeper who is more imposing, regularly comes off his line using his fists and with a different saving technique.“In his place I’d not have left Inter, where he was a big-shot. He made a calculated risk thinking he would slot in seamlessly at Manchester United but it backfired.“But even though he hasn’t lived up to expectations he remains a top keeper, one of the best in Europe.”MASSIMO TAIBI: Onana faces a tough task to win over fans now EXCLUSIVE by ALESSANDRO SCHIAVONEMASSIMO TAIBI has warned error-prone Manchester United keeper Andre Onana it is “one hell of task” to come back from the dead once people have written you off.Ex-Red Devils keeper Taibi, 54, even joked the under-fire Cameroon ace should pop up with a GOAL every now and then to bury the memory of his howlers.In two defeats this month, Onana was at fault for a Morgan Gibbs-White goal from long range for Nottingham Forest and for conceding directly from a corner kick from Wolves’ Matheus Cunha.Taibi, infamous for letting a harmless shot from Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier squirm under his body and in at Old Trafford in 1999, said: “He can only erase a mistake from collective consciousness with ten to 15 top performances.“If his howlers are still be a major talking point it’s because he has done nothing to wipe them away.“A keeper sets himself apart as mentally he is normally the strongest. If a striker misses five chances he still gets acclaimed but a goalkeeper who drops a clanger will be crucified for months.“To get out of that is possible — but it is one hell of a task. It’s normal some things stay inside Onana as he’s human. It can affect him but shouldn’t knock him down completely.“A keeper can’t play at the top level if he doesn’t have the ability to let things wash over him — composure is crucial.”Onana, signed in a £47.2million deal last year from Inter Milan, made a number of high-profile blunders last season.He let a weak Leroy Sane shot beat him in a 4-3 loss to Bayern Munich, made a dreadful pass that led to a red card for team-mate Casemiro against Galatasaray, and allowed a weak Mathias Jensen shot to go under his body against Brentford.Taibi said: “Last year he had a poor season but it looked as if he’d recovered.“But sometimes when you get off to a bad start at a new club, even if then you play many blinders, the first mistake you make again they rub it in your face.“At every cock-up, people will point the finger at him due to the amount of errors he made last year. The roots of this season’s problems go all the way back to last term when his stock fell.”Taibi reckons a goal he scored with a header for Reggina in 2001 has helped fans forget his 1999 shocker.He said: “I get remembered for the goal I scored for Reggina otherwise I’d only be remembered for my United howler. A keeper who scores is out of the ordinary, especially in the 2000s.“Higuita is remembered for his scorpion kick and nobody remembers Chilavert for his saves but only for scoring free-kicks.“While Zenga, the best goalkeeper in the world for many years, is often remembered for that Caniggia error at Italia 90. It’s the tough law of a goalkeeper that you cannot change.”Onana has copped lots of flak but Taibi says he is messing up in a particular way.The Italian explained: “We can only talk about a ‘clanger’ if you get off your line and miss the ball or when you let a long-ranger squeeze through your hands and when you drop an easy shot.“But his are positional mistakes. For the corner, he should have stood a bit further forward.“He may have underestimated the trajectory of the ball because it’s unlikely to put the ball where Cunha has from that position.“And for Gibbs-White, he saw that he was getting his shot away and therefore anticipated the movement and when he saw the ball it was too late.“This normally would not have been picked on if he had played ten to 15 great games. But given he’s under heavy scrutiny, mistakes like this are magnified.”Onana, 28, often alternates worldie saves with his bloopers.Taibi warned: “Pulling off a miraculous save is easier than making a routine one as it’s you who makes it look easy when you collect the ball. “But for miraculous ones, if you succeed you’re a genius and if you don’t it’s not your fault anyway.“Keepers sometimes underestimate the so-called ‘easy’ ones. Slipping is avoidable if you’re more careful and maybe he’d have saved it had he made a backwards step.“It’s easier to keep out an impossible shot than being focused for 95 minutes! A split-second distraction can be fatal.”And Taibi joked United fans would “hit” him if they were to meet.He added: “I should never concede through my legs but I slipped while I was diving. If I hadn’t it would never have nestled through the way it has.“I’ve never been back to Old Trafford since I left and never met Le Tissier again.“I’d like to return one day but I don’t think the fans would recognise me. Well let’s hope so as if they do they will hit me!“My only regret is they made me look like someone who left because he failed. I had a four-year contract and nobody pushed me out. “I had private problems, my wife walked out on me, returning to Italy with my two kids on Christmas Eve.“I made a rushed decision based on how lonely I was. If I had my time again I’d have faced my problems in England.“Being branded a ‘flop’ and the worst keeper in Premier League history irks me even today as it’s a wrong assessment.“You cannot judge a keeper on four games, of which two were good performances! I played for Manchester United, you only do so if you were a great player.” More

    • 250 Shares64 Views

      in Soccer

      Amorim always knew Man Utd was a huge mess… but Ratcliffe’s ‘football committee’ could be the biggest of the lot

      by

      CARDS maxed to the limit, a fortune spent on stuff that seemed a bright idea but will just lie around cluttering up the place.Unwanted tat you’re stuck with as no one else wants it either. Ruben Amorim is giving Man Utd an identity but must rebuildCredit: GettyChristian Eriksen and Co slumped 2-0 at Wolves on Boxing DayCredit: AlamySir Jim Ratcliffe’s football committee at Man Utd looks like a bigger joke than anything that came out of a Christmas crackerCredit: PAWondering whatever possessed you to think it was good value in the first place.The story of the festive season for households across the nation. The story of the past ten seasons for Manchester United.One which means even though they seem to have found a suitable successor to Sir Alex Ferguson at last, he is having to do the job with both hands tied behind his back.So much for all those boasts of how cock-ups were a thing of the past now Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s much-vaunted football committee was running the show.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSeriously, Sir Jim? That already looks a bigger joke than anything which tumbled out of a cracker.This is a regime which arrived 12 months  ago with chest-beating promises that United would be title contenders in three years.But right now is more likely to be remembered for their role in one of  the most unforgivable chapters in the history of England’s biggest club.Reckon that is overplaying the  seriousness of the situation at Old Trafford? Well, scratch beneath the surface a little and see what you think.Most read in FootballUnited keeper Andre Onana let in a goal direct from a corner at WolvesCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe biggest and most obvious clanger of all was fudging Erik ten Hag’s future last summer. And then managing to trump themselves by compounding it even further.First co-owner Sir Jim, right-hand man Dave Brailsford and the rest of the brains trust decided Erik wasn’t so bad after all — having spent months wildly thrashing around in vain for a better option. ‘Who do you think you are’: Sir Alex Ferguson reduced Cristiano Ronaldo to tears after ‘ripping in’ to Man Utd iconNot many truly believed it with any serious conviction — maybe not even the committee themselves — but the FA Cup final win in May gave them a platform to argue so.For all it was great to beat Manchester City, there’s a case to suggest it was the worst thing that could’ve happened. Crystal clear waters became muddied.Defeat at Wembley would certainly have seen off the manager. Instead Sir Jim’s boys not only stuck with Ten Hag, but then let him spend more than £170million on new recruits.Until late October, when reality could be ignored no longer and they swung the axe. At last a unanimous verdict . . . no disputing this decision.Most fans agreed the next one was spot on, too. In Ruben Amorim, United, after 11 error-riddled years, finally had the manager they craved.One whose personality, character, presence and belief is as big as the sporting institution paying his wages. Results alone wouldn’t scream as much, for sure. They are no better than Ten Hag’s early days at Old Trafford.But already Amorim is giving United an identity again. Already there is a system in mind. His predecessor couldn’t manage either in over two years.The problem, though, is the manager needs the tools to do the job . . . and there aren’t many — of the right kind at least — to work with.There is an urgent demand for new faces. But that demands departures which, in turn, demands finding buyers. And there is no queue for Old Trafford cast-offs.Of the players Amorim inherited, you could say with any certainty only Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo and, probably, Bruno Fernandes are out  of bounds.This is a rebuild of knock-it-down, start-from-scratch proportions… demanding ultimate stick-with-it patience.Plus possibly £42m summer signing Leny Yoro — if only for the reason his injury-delayed start means he hasn’t played enough to pass judgment.Yet so many of the rest simply aren’t up to it —  Amorim has swiftly  realised it, too. He knew United had problems, but probably not what a mess they were in.One logic-defying win at City won’t pull the wool over his eyes. Not with red-faced losses to Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest and Wolves in the mix, too.Amorim knew full well this was a mission with no quick fix . . . but not, you sense, the reality that it will take years longer than he first believed.This is a rebuild of knock-it-down, start-from-scratch proportions. A job demanding ultimate stick-with-it patience.Which, ironically, has been the mantra of the post-Fergie era. That plea urging the owners to keep faith in the manager.So far none have had more than two full seasons.READ MORE SUN STORIESNo surprise, then, that patience is the watchword once again. Yet now with a huge sense  of irony.For this time the call isn’t begging United’s owners to be patient, but for the manager to have enough in those who brought him in.Amad Diallo and Kobbie Mainoo are the two players whose Old Trafford future should be most secureCredit: Getty More

    • 213 Shares50 Views

      in Soccer

      England star Marc Guehi eyes Liverpool transfer… but Crystal Palace could want wonderkid as part of deal

      by

      MARC GUEHI is willing to wait on a move to Liverpool as Crystal Palace brace for offers.Centre-back Guehi was cool on leaving in the summer when Newcastle took an interest — and will have the major say on when he leaves the Eagles nest and where he goes.Marc Guehi is open to leaving Crystal Palace but won’t force through a January exitCredit: GETTYThe Eagles skipper is keen to join LiverpoolCredit: REXPalace could try to get Reds startlet Ben Doak in a potential deal for GuehiCredit: PAThe England international is holding on for a Champions League club — whether that comes next month or in the summer.Sources close to Guehi, 24, have revealed Liverpool is his first-choice destination and the Reds are also interested in a deal at the right price.Palace will look for a big fee now, although that is sure to drop in the summer as his contract ticks down. The Eagles could try to get a player out of the deal.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThey have been checking on winger Ben Doak during his loan spell at Middlesbrough.The flying Scot, 19, wants to go back and play at the Kop — but may seek a new Premier League home if that is not available.Boro would try for him if they go up but Palace are already waiting in the wings and poised to move for the exciting young Anfield talent.Palace will push hard for Doak if they fail to land French target Rayan Cherki, 21, from Lyon — their ideal arrival next month.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut Paris Saint-Germain want Cherki and hope to land him in a dream double, with a return for Kylian Mbappe their other main move.Palace rejected THREE summer bids from Newcastle for Guehi’s services.England star Marc Guéhi’s talks about his father’s faith and missing church on Sundays After the closeure of the transfer window, manager Oliver Glaser said: I was never in doubt [that Guehi would stay].”Congratulations to our owners because they didn’t give in.”Thank you to Marc, he was always open with me. “All the rumours didn’t influence his performances.”He always told me that he’s not pushing to leave Crystal Palace and that is always the most important thing for me.”Palace will be back in action on Sunday afternoon, welcoming bottom-of-the-table Southampton to Selhurst Park.Oliver Glasner was confident Marc Guehi wouldn’t leave Palace this past summerCredit: GETTY More

    • 250 Shares50 Views

      in Soccer

      Man City love rat Kyle Walker did not give Christmas gifts to his children with Lauryn Goodman despite £27m fortune

      by

      FOOTIE ace Kyle Walker did not send Christmas gifts to his two kids with Lauryn Goodman.The Man City star, 34, worth an estimated £27million, missed out son Kairo and daughter Kinara for a second year despite promising friends he’d do the “right thing”.Lauryn Goodman feels let down by Kyle Walker, say mutual palsCredit: AlamyWalker missed out son Kairo and daughter Kinara for a second year — despite promising friends to do the ‘right thing’Credit: Instagram @lauryngoodman91Annie and Kyle spent Christmas Day together despite her filing for divorce in OctoberCredit: InstagramA source close to Kyle said: ‘He provides for the children financially’Credit: AlamyIt has left Lauryn feeling the humbug spirit, say sources.One said: “All of their mutual friends have talked to Kyle.“They feel really upset for the children and for Lauryn who is always trying to do right by their kids.“They were hoping Kyle would put aside his differences for the sake of the children.Read More on Sport“But to leave them with nothing to open for another year is just really sad.”Chaos broke out last Christmas between Lauryn, Kyle and his then- pregnant wife Annie.Lauryn broke the news of her second child with Kyle on December 27 in a text to Annie — leading to a huge public feud.Kyle later admitted he’d lied to both women and moved out of the family home in Cheshire.Most read in FootballAnnie filed for divorce this October and is preparing to seek half his fortune. It comes after The Sun revealed Kyle spent a couple of hours on Christmas Day with Annie and their four sons before going to training.Kyle Walker’s wife Annie Kilner files for divorce and gears up to fight for star’s £27m fortuneLauryn became pregnant while Kyle was on a break from Annie in 2019 and Kairo was born the following year. He and Annie rebuilt their relationship and got married in 2021.Kyle and Lauryn stayed in touch, started to spend time together and had days out with Kairo, and then briefly rekindled their relationship before Kinara was conceived.The source added: “Kyle told mutual friends that the kids would get gifts this year. “They still believe he will do the right thing and some will be delivered in the New Year to show them Kyle does care.”A source close to Kyle said: “He provides for the children financially.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He’s never been a part of Lauryn’s Christmas celebrations with the children. “There’s no reason this year would be any different.” More

    • 163 Shares55 Views

      in Soccer

      Bizarre reason Jorginho’s form dipped after fiancee’s late-night doorstep showdown with beautician revealed

      by

      FOOTIE ace Jorginho lost form after leaving his two lucky bracelets with a beautician pal at the centre of a Ring doorbell row with his fiancée.The Arsenal star, 33, took off the charms during a meeting with Vanessa Sandora.Jorginho’s footy form dropped off after he left a charm at a beautician’s house, the star is pictured here with partner Catherine HardingThe Arsenal star took off two bracelets during a meeting with Vanessa SandoraHe asked for them back but Vanessa, 39, could not find them.The midfielder’s Chelsea form slumped and later he was sold to Arsenal for £12million.This month his fiancée Catherine Harding, 34, arrived at Vanessa’s London home at 11.30pm asking about her and the star.Vanessa explained they had met in the past but had not had any contact since.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSVanessa told The Sun on Sunday: “At one of our meetings, Jorginho took off his beaded bracelets.“He left them behind. “I didn’t think much about it.“I heard he wanted them back but I couldn’t find them anywhere.Most read in Football“Afterwards his form for Chelsea dipped and I was told by friends he blamed the fact he wasn’t wearing his lucky bracelets. “Apparently they’d been blessed in a church.Arsenal star Jorginho gets engaged to stunning Wag Catherine Harding and shares intimate snaps of proposal“Without them he felt he wasn’t the same player.”Vanessa added: “After our third meeting, we continued to message.“But we didn’t meet again and I deleted Jorginho from social media in December 2022. “I thought that was the end of it.”Last week The Sun on Sunday told how Catherine visited Vanessa on December 4.In a chat captured on her Ring doorbell, Vanessa said she had met Jorginho but added: “He’s not my type, and I’m not into football, so I was pretty unfazed.”Vanessa and Jorginho matched on dating app Raya in 2019, the year he met Catherine.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe couple have a son, four, got engaged a year ago, and star in Amazon Prime’s Married to the Game.Jorginho and Catherine were asked for comment.After losing the charm, the midfielder’s Chelsea form slumped and a year later he was sold to Arsenal for £12millionCredit: GettyThe footballer’s bracelets were blessed in a churchJorginho in a cup clash for the Gunners against Crystal PalaceCredit: GettyCatherine confronts Vanesssa in a late-night doorstep showdown More

    • 213 Shares70 Views

      in Soccer

      Newcastle eye shock transfer swoop for Everton ace Dominic Calvert-Lewin… but are prepared to wait until summer

      by

      NEWCASTLE have targeted Dominic Calvert-Lewin — but are prepared to wait to get him on a free in the summer.The Toon set their sights on the Everton striker, whose deal expires in June, although they are reluctant to pay a big fee next month.Dominic Calvert-Lewin is wanted by the Magpies plus overseas clubsCredit: RexInstead, the Geordies will put all of their cash into a major contract offer for the  one-cap England man to tempt him away from Merseyside. The 27-year-old is happy to stay in the Premier League for family reasons.And he has snubbed approaches from abroad, where Fiorentina are keen on him.The Italians would also offer Calvert-Lewin a huge deal to land him in the summer, with a pre- contract ready and waiting to be signed now.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut Newcastle are firm favourites and will wait, which also suits their budget plans.Toon boss Eddie Howe may only make one serious move for a player next month and would need to sell one to bring in any more.Ironically, Everton and Newcastle are the two Prem clubs with the most players whose contracts end in the summer.That means they are vulnerable to swoops from overseas clubs in January.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThat’s because players with just six months remaining on their contracts can negotiate pre-contract deals with clubs from other leagues. Indeed the Prem could be one of the hardest hit top-flights in Europe.Aston Villa star Jhon Duran kicks water bottle in fury after he is sent off against NewcastleThe Toffees and the Magpies both have eight stars poised for the pre-contract countdown.For the Toon that’s Sean Longstaff, Callum Wilson, Fabian Schar, Jamaal Lascelles, Martin Dubravka, Emil Krafth, Mark Gillespie and John Ruddy.And Calvert-Lewin is joined by other household names on the list of Goodison Park aces who might move for nothing at the end of the season.Ex-England wideman Ashley Young, 39, is joined by Abdoulaye Doucoure, Michael Keane, Idrissa Gueye, Seamus Coleman, Joao Virginia and Asmir Begovic. More

    • 225 Shares101 Views

      in Soccer

      Seven Man Utd deals that could happen in January as Ruben Amorim desperately fights to avoid RELEGATION scare

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED have broken all the wrong records so far this season.Ruben Amorim is the club’s third manager after the disastrous start made by Erik ten Hag.Ruben Amorim could see a number of deals take place in January to try and avoid relegation with Man UtdCredit: GettyMarcus Rashford’s potential exit could open the door for incoming transfersCredit: PAViktor Gyokeres could be one potential signing for United this JanuaryCredit: AlamyAnd while interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy was able to steady the ship during his four-game interim spell in charge, things have turned even more sour following the appointment of Amorim.The Portuguese boss warned of the “storm” to follow his appointment as he tried to implement his own tactical ideas into the squad.However, just four games won out of his first 10 have come as a mighty shock even for this squad which has largely flopped over the last two seasons.Results have left the Red Devils down in 14th and just eight points above the relegation zone.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMillions of pounds were spent trying to improve the squad under Ten Hag.But with another rebuild now beckoning, United simply do not have the means to splash the cash without first trying to balance the books.This has come in the form of many petty cost-cutting schemes at the bottom of the club pyramid.These have included the sacking of 250 staff in the summer, stopping many initiatives such as the Christmas party and the pulling of a £40,000 donation to a charity for ex-players, as exclusively revealed by The Sun.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSYet January represents a time when transfer chiefs, led by Jason Wilcox following Dan Ashworth’s departure, can start to attempt to write some of the wrongs made in the market.The big move which could facilitate a swathe of activity is the exit of Marcus Rashford.’It doesn’t look good’ – Roy Keane tips Marcus Rashford for Man Utd transfer exit after he is DROPPED for City clashAfter 18 months of immense struggles playing for the Red Devils, Rashford, 27, admitted in an interview earlier this month he was “ready for a new challenge”.The local lad has since been absent from Amorim’s matchday squads, indicating his time at Old Trafford could be coming to an end if there is sufficient interest.According to The Athletic, United took steps in the summer to find suitors for the attacker in the summer, with Paris Saint-Germain and Saudi giants linked.But the report cautions a loan transfer is more likely given his huge £325,000-a-week wages, though this would at least move some of the money off of United’s wage books and help with PSR needs.Harry Maguire is another star who could be sold to improve the clubs PSR position, with Napoli taking a reported interest in the defender whose contract expires in the summer.Expensive flop Antony has also been linked with the exit door amid a smattering of solid cameos under Amorim, with Real Betis said to have been interested last summer.But outgoings alone will not solve this team’s issues, with a left wing-back one of the main priorities the club will be looking to resolve going forward.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charityUnited have struck a deal to sign teenage left-back Diego Leon from Paraguayan club Cerro Porteno, and the transfer is nearing completion.However, the 17-year-old will not be able to actually play until the summer due to post-Brexit regulations preventing Premier League clubs from signing under-18s from abroad.Instead, club chiefs may eye a blast from the past in the form of Benfica left-back Alvaro Fernandez.United have a buy-back clause in his deal that will allow them to re-sign the 21-year-old, who they sold for around £5million in the summer, for £25m.Fernandez has been a key star with Benfica top of the Portuguse league and playing every minute of their Champions League campaign so far.In terms of more senior stars, United have been monitoring Atalanta midfielder Ederson, 25, owing to his impressive displays for the high-flying Serie A side.His familiarity with a 3-4-2-1 system would also serve United well to improving Amorim’s options in the middle of the park.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, Amorim’s former main man Viktor Gyokeres has also been linked extensively with a transfer to follow his old boss to Man Utd.However, the 26-year-old Swede has an £83m release clause in his contract that United are in no position to match – though he could reportedly depart for as little as £50m.Man Utd ratings vs WolvesBy Ken LawrenceWOLVES landed a shock Boxing Day knockout as Manchester United’s struggles continued.The 2-0 defeat means Ruben Amorim has won just two of the seven Premier League games he has taken charge of.United find themselves 14th in the table and today were not helped by Bruno Fernandes’ red card and Andre Onana letting one in direct from a corner.Here is how SunSport rated the performances…ANDRE ONANA: 4He needed to make an agile save from Jorgen Strand Larsen in the first half, but badly misjudged the flight of Cunha’s corner for the opening goal – his claim that he was obstructed by Matt Doherty was rejected.LENY YORO: 5Recalled but booked after only four minutes for a foul on Cunha, so he was walking on eggshells and was tested by Wolves throughout. Subbed just after the hour mark.HARRY MAGUIRE: 6The England defender did his best to keep United in the game when they were under pressure for long periods – at least he helped to stem the tide until the dying seconds and had a header on target in stoppage time.LISANDRO MARTINEZ: 6Teamed up well with Maguire to stop Wolves from winning this more easily, he stood his ground and produced some important challenges in the latter stages before Wolves caught him on the break with the last action of the game.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI: 5Tenacious and determined, but was one of several players given a torrid time by the best player on the pitch – Cunha.MANUEL UGARTE: 5Dispossesed too easily at times, struggled against a lively Wolves attack and was eventually taken off as one of Amorim’s subs following Fernandes’ red card.KOBBIE MAINOO: 5Looked a threat early on, created some good openings, but he was booked after the break as United looked short on ideas. Faded and was subbed.DIOGO DALOT: 6Brought a tremendous save from Jose Sa in the first half in what was a rare bright spot for United – but he had no major influence on a poor team display.AMAD DIALLO: 5Lacked awareness of his team-mates sometimes and looked a shadow of the player who turned the Manchester derby around less than two weeks ago.BRUNO FERNANDES: 3Sent off early in the second half for a second yellow after a challenge on Nelson Semedo, but the captain had cut a frustrated figure before that.RASMUS HOJLUND: 5Became visibly annoyed at times at a lack of service from his team-mates, he had no joy up front and was subbed with 10 minutes left.SUBSCasemiro (for Mainoo, 63 mins): 6Christian Eriksen (for Ugate, 63 mins): 6Antony (for Yoro, 63 mins): 6Alejandro Garnacho (for Amad, 79 mins): 5Joshua Zirkzee (for Hojlund, 79 mins): 5 More

    • 213 Shares101 Views

      in Soccer

      Bukayo Saka posts picture from hospital bed after Arsenal star undergoes surgery and faces months on sidelines

      by

      BUKAYO SAKA has given fans a health update after undergoing surgery.Mikel Arteta confirmed the Arsenal star would be heading to hospital after he was hit with a hamstring injury during their 5-1 win at Crystal Palace before Christmas.Bukayo Saka has posted a health update following surgeryCredit: Instagram / bukayosaka87The Arsenal star was hit by a hamstring injury before ChristmasCredit: RexSaka was seen on crutches following the gameCredit: The SunSaka, 23, limped off the pitch at Selhurst Park with fears he could be out for a prolonged period of time.And those fears came true when Arteta confirmed his star man would need surgery and would be out until at least March.He said: “Yes Bukayo had a procedure and everything went well, but unfortunately he will be out for many, many weeks.”I said many weeks, so I think it will be more than two months. I don’t know exactly how much longer.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSaka has now undergone his operation and provided anxious Gooners with an update on his health by releasing a picture on Instagram.The stricken winger shared a photo to his page showing him in a hospital bed with his right thumb up.He captioned the post: “The majority see obstacles, but few see the opportunities. “Recovery has begun and I’m coming back stronger! Thank you all for your messages #Godsplan.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIn a bid to alleviate the problem caused by Saka’s absence, Arsenal deployed Gabriel Martinelli on the right wing in their 1-0 win over Ipswich.On the game and the Brazilian’s new role, Arteta said: “[It was] Very different we will evolve that. Bukayo Saka is spotted on crutches after Arsenal’s win at Crystal Palace”In the second half I liked it more. It will take a bit of time.”Arsenal face back to back away trips to Brentford on New Year’s Day and Brighton the following Saturday.The Gunners then host Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg before taking on Manchester United at the Emirates in the FA Cup third round.Arsenal ratings vs IpswichBy Katherine WalshARSENAL leapfrogged Chelsea back into second in the Premier League table with a 1-0 win over Ipswich.Kai Havertz’s close-range finish midway through the first half proved to be the difference between the title-chasing Gunners and relegation-threatened Tractor Boys. Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh rated the Arsenal players at the Emirates Stadium…David Raya – 5Cut a lonely figure and must have been cold standing on his goal-line for most of the first half as his team-mates enjoyed 84 per cent possession.Had his first touch on 31 minutes but was called upon more in the second half as Ipswich grew into the game.Jurrien Timber – 6Got the fans on their feet with a glorious run through the middle of the park inside 19 minutes, but his limp long range shot was easily kept out by Muric.Clearly had a licence to roam, cutting in from full-back and driving up the pitch.William Saliba – 7Joined Gabriel in the highest line set-up of the season. The pair of them were at the edge of Muric’s box for most of the first half.The Frenchman was solid in dealing with a boisterous Liam Delap.Gabriel – 8Great game for the Brazilian to ease back into 90 minutes after starting against Crystal Palace on Saturday.Caused his usual nuisance in the opposition area from corners but missed a sitter from a Rice set-piece in the 64th minute.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7Getting more and more impressive each week. The way he moves with that low centre of gravity makes him so hard to dispossess.But a poor clearance saw Ipswich enjoy a first spell of possession before the hour mark.The 18-year-old was poked and prodded by Ipswich striker Delap and Kalvin Phillips at times but dealt with it well.Declan Rice – 7Rice was pushed into a defensive No6 role but didn’t have to stay there long.Energetic as always and added another level of attack he got his foot on the ball and won a dangerous free kick on the edge of the area.Kai Havertz – 8Officially back in midfield in Saka’s absence after having played most of the season up top.But the German was in the perfect elusive centre-forward’s position to tap home with a breakthrough opener inside 23 minutes.Rotated and exchanged the No9 role – perhaps Arteta has found a new partnership that may see them through this spell without Saka.Martin Odegaard – 6Rare off evening for the Arsenal captain but nothing too drastic. Uncharacteristic air ball inside six minutes and wasn’t as sharp in his passing.Perhaps missing the chemistry he has with Saka and lost the ball cheaply at times.Gabriel Martinelli – 6All eyes were on the winger as he filled in for Saka on the right-hand side.The Brazilian perhaps lacks the directness of the Gunners’ starboy, but he saw plenty of the ball and linked up well with Jesus.Whipped the first ball in for Havertz’s goal which came out to Trossard who provided the assist.Leandro Trossard – 7Started on the left and kept the ball alive to steal a yard on Ben Johnson and provide Havertz with a wicked cross and his 12th goal of the season.Troubled Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and tireless work rate throughout.Gabriel Jesus – 5Jesus clearly had the bit between his teeth at the moment after last week’s goal rush.Couldn’t quite hold his run well enough when breaking through after 34 minutes for his offside goal. Perhaps over eager at that moment.Looked disappointed when he was subbed off with 20 minutes remaining. More