Tag: Football

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Throughout the summer there’s been a real buzz about the youngsters coming through at Manchester United, showing the future of Old Trafford is in safe hands.

Players like Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho have already established themselves as top names on Erik ten Hag’s team sheet, already being nominated for this year’s Golden Boy award.

Garnacho came back from his post Copa America vacation this week, coming off the bench in the Community Shield match up against Manchester City, with Mainoo starting the match. The Argentinian quickly made his mark on the game, scoring a Messi-style goal to give United the lead.

Unfortunately the game ended up in penalties, with City taking the victory, in a reverse result of the FA Cup final which saw United lift the trophy.

The Community Shield match up also saw ten Hag give chances to both Facundo Pellistri and Toby Collyer. Collyer has delivered a number of strong performances this pre-season, looking set to be on the same projection as Garnacho and Mainoo to break into the senior squad this year.

Defender Harry Amass has also been incredibly strong this summer, with many having expected him to start in the Community Shield match in the absence of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.

The academy are also looking at massive boosts with wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin signing from Arsenal and Samuel Lusale from Crystal Palace.

However, it’s another youngster that’s caught the eye of one of United’s transfer targets this summer.

Jeremie Frimpong praises Untied youngster, JJ Gabriel

Academy Scoop has taken to X to highlighting praise coming from Bayer Leverkusen right-back Jeremie Frimpong.

The 23-year-old posted on his Instagram story a shout out to JJ Gabriel of Manchester United’s Under-14s team.

The caption read “JJ is normal” with a shrug and heart emoji, praising his performance.

This isn’t the first time Frimpong has linked with United stars on social media, with him recently commenting on his countryman, Joshua Zirkzee, signing for the Red Devils.

When Zirkzee posted an image of himself in the United dressing room after signing, the defender commented on Zirkzee’s post by saying: “Joshyyyyyy,” with two love heart emojis, showing his support of Zirkzee’s Manchester move.

The link between Zirkzee and Frimpong is fairly obvious, with the pair playing at international level for Netherlands together. However, many are querying the link between Frimpong and the United youngster.

Several people have taken to comments querying if they are somehow related, however the real link is much more exciting for United fans.

A number of people have taken to the comments to clarify that the pair share the same 1 to 1 coach.

Having seen the progress and standard that Frimpong has been delivering, this definitely makes the prospect of what 14-year-old Gabriel can be in the future an extremely exiting idea for the Red Devils.

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The world of free agents have always been a great way of signing some impressive talent without it breaking the bank.

For a number of players, this summer is the start of the final year of their contracts, with clubs trying to make sales to cash in on their stars.

Ultimately if a deal isn’t reached, the stars are eligible to sign new contracts with a new club from January ready for a summertime move. However for a number of players, they’ll leave their contract with no team lined up.

Manchester United saw this back in July with Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial leaving Old Trafford clubless, however Varane has now signed for Italian side Como. Martial is still yet to decide on his next club, however he may be on his way to Serie A as well, with Atalanta considering the France international.

On the other side of the table, United are looking at signing Adrien Rabiot who left Juventus in July at the end of his contract. The midfielder rejected a new contract with Juve amid interest from United, and now the Red Devils have received a boost with Newcastle pulling out of the race.

However, it’s now being reported that one of United’s former attackers is set to return to Serie A after 18 years away from the Italian side.

Alexis Sanchez signs for former club on a free transfer

Alexis Sanchez became a free agent back in July after being released by Inter Milan at the end of his contract.

Now, Sanchez has re-signed for Udinese after 18 years away from the club. Over his three years at the club back in 2008 to 2011, the then 19-year-old made 112 appearances, grabbing 21 goals and 20 assists. His run of impressive performances helped the Italian club achieve a fourth place finish in 2011, and ultimately saw him move to Barcelona for €26 million.

While at Camp Nou, Sanchez built on his run of form, getting 46 goals and 37 assists in 141 games. Three years, a LaLiga title, FIFA Club World Cup title, a Copa del Rey title and tow Supercopa titles later, and the Chilean attacker was on his way to Arsenal for €42.5 million.

It was at the Emirates Stadium that Sanchez really shone though. In 166 games, the 35-year-old managed to net 80 goals, with 43 assists to his name as well. While ay the London-based club, Sanchez lifted three Community Shields and two FA Cups, scoring in both FA Cup finals.

Then, in 2018, United bought the forward for €34 million, however he never quite hit the heights of his peak at Premier League rivals Arsenal. He only made 45 appearances across two seasons where he got five goals and nine assists. Ultimately this led to the star going out on loan, marking his first season with Inter Milan.

The 35-year-old has spent a collective four seasons at Inter Milan, with the loan spell being his first year before they then picked him up on their first of two free transfers for him.

Whilst at San Siro, Sanchez has played a total of 142 games across all competitions, grabbing 24 goals and 28 assists, helping the club claim the Serie A title last season and in 2020/21, the Supercoppa Italiana twice and the Italy Cup in 2021/22.

The Chilean international took a year away from Inter in 2022 where he joined Marseille for a season on a free. While with the French club, he made 44 appearances, grabbing 18 goals and three assists, helping secure a third place finish in Ligue 1.

Last season Udinese came 15th overall, only avoiding relegation by two points. No doubt they’ll be hoping that the signing of Sanchez will give them some more attacking power to fight their way up the table.

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This weekend saw another epic battle between Manchester United and Manchester City as the rivals fought for this year’s Community Shield. The two giants of English football last faced of in the FA Cup final, where goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo sealed the win for United.

Unfortunately for the Red Devils, it wasn’t the same this time round, with the Citizens winning in penalties which went all the way to round eight of sudden death.

The game was pushed to penalties with another cup final goal from Garnacho after only being on the pitch 23 minutes, before this was cancelled out be Bernardo Silva nine minute after being substituted on.

Garnacho appearance saw his first game back with United after his time off following his Copa America victory. However his goal for the Red Devils resembled on of his international teammates, being hailed by his national press.

Argentinian press praise Garnacho and his “Messi-style” goal

Garancho’s goal was truly incredible, beating defenders on his run to finishing calmly, it definitely showed why he’s one of the first names selected by Erik ten Hag.

Now, Argentinian publication Ole have praised the “spectacular” goal, comparing it to some of the greatest players of all time.

The report read: “Alejandro Garnacho’s goal was spectacular and his future is extremely promising. The winger was unstoppable and found 1-0 after a Lionel Messi-style individual goal.”

It continued: “After the goal that gave the lead to United, Garnacho changed the Messi-style for that of Cristiano Ronaldo. The Argentine went to celebrate with his fans and imitated the Portuguese [player].

“From the right wing to the centre, like Lionel Messi, his teammate in the Argentine National Team, Garnacho scored a great goal in Wembley.”

Another publication from Argentina, El Grafico, also praised the gaol, saying: “Alejandro Garnacho scored a great goal at the mythical Wembley stadium. The Argentine winger had entered at 57 minutes and at 81′ he made a tremendous play”

Hopefully the praise from his national press will help to give Garnacho the chance to prove himself on the international stage.

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News from reliable West Ham United outlet Claret & Hugh indicates that Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s West Ham medical has been delayed.

According to the report, Wan-Bissaka is still finalising his exit terms with Manchester United, which has caused the medical, originally scheduled for 4 pm, to be postponed.

Despite this delay, the report confirms that Aaron Wan-Bissaka is still expected to travel to London this evening as West Ham finalises terms. The Hammers remain hopeful that a deal will be struck.

David Ornstein confirms delayed medical

David Ornstein has now confirmed that the medical has been indefinitely delayed due to unresolved issues between Wan-Bissaka and Manchester United.

Ornstein reveals that the 26-year-old was initially scheduled to travel to London on Sunday for a medical to complete the move, but he remains in Manchester.

Ornstein fully corroborates the Claret & Hugh report, adding that there is optimism at both Old Trafford and the London Stadium that the deal will still be completed.

However, the report adds that Manchester United remains “relaxed” even if the deal isn’t finalised.

David Ornstein also highlights that Noussair Mazraoui’s imminent move to Old Trafford is contingent on Wan-Bissaka’s departure.

This means the Mazraoui deal could still fall through if Wan-Bissaka remains at the club due to unresolved issues between his camp and United.

This situation could be a significant setback for Mazraoui’s camp, as they were very keen on the move, and for Bayern Munich, who were expecting to gain €20 million, including add-ons, through the sale of their player.

Fans are eagerly awaiting a positive conclusion to this transfer saga as they look forward to Mazraoui’s potential arrival at Manchester United.

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Manchester United have shown not just activity but strategic brilliance in the current transfer window, securing early deals for their primary targets.

The club’s business acumen this summer stands in stark contrast to previous years under the Glazer ownership, marking a significant shift under the new INEOS-led hierarchy.

This shift has facilitated smoother transfer negotiations, allowing United to make what many consider bargain signings. The club has already secured Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui.

While the deals for De Ligt and Mazraoui are still pending finalisation—subject to medicals and contract signatures—the total outlay of just £141 million for four world-class players is remarkable, especially in an inflated market. This is a significant departure from the previous regime’s trend of overpaying for every signing.

As part of their new, smarter approach to spending, Manchester United have also turned their attention to the free agent market to bolster squad depth.

Among the players linked with a move to Old Trafford are Mario Hermoso, a former Atletico Madrid defender, and long-time United target Adrien Rabiot.

United’s desire to add a midfielder before the transfer window closes has been well-documented.

The club had previously agreed on personal terms with their top target, Manuel Ugarte, but a deal could not be completed due to PSG’s high valuation.

United remain interested in Ugarte, should PSG lower their asking price, but in the meantime, the club is exploring alternatives.

Adrien Rabiot’s name continues to surface as a potential economical option for United. Multiple reports have confirmed United’s interest in bringing the free agent to Old Trafford.

However, the deal could hinge on wage demands, as the club is wary of offering high wages that could disrupt their carefully managed wage structure.

Rabiot, who is 29 years old, would provide additional depth and quality in United’s midfield.

His potential arrival could also address concerns over the long-term futures of current midfielders Casemiro and Scott McTominay.

However, the race to sign Rabiot has recently become more competitive.

Liverpool add Rabiot to their ‘wanted-list’

According to The Mirror, Liverpool have now entered the race to sign Adrien Rabiot.

The Reds have reportedly added the French midfielder to their “wanted-list” of targets for this summer as they look to reinforce their squad under new manager Arne Slot.

Rabiot, who became a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Juventus, is now weighing his options.

The French international now has a significant decision to make regarding his next move.

Rabiot first made his name at Paris Saint-Germain, where he played from 2010 to 2019.

During his time at PSG, Rabiot made 227 appearances and scored 24 goals, along with a loan spell at Toulouse to gain additional experience. The French international has also earned 48 caps for his country.

In 2019, Juventus signed Rabiot, and he went on to make 212 appearances for the Turin club, contributing 22 goals, five of which came in the last season. Despite his contributions, Rabiot has now left Juventus in search of a fresh start.

Rabiot would be a shrewd addition to any team, given that he is available on a free transfer and brings a wealth of experience.

His left-footedness would also offer Manchester United a different dynamic in midfield.

However, if reports are accurate, Liverpool could now make a move for Rabiot, potentially setting up a scenario where he lines up against United in the upcoming Premier League season.

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With transfer deadline day just over two weeks away now, time is running out for teams to strengthen their squads this summer.

This weekend has confirmed that Aaron Wan-Bissaka is leaving Manchester United for West Ham, with Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich taking his place at Old Trafford. Alongside him, long-term United target Matthijs de Ligt is moving to Manchester too, completing a reunion with manager Erik ten Hag.

However, recent reports suggest that even more stars are set to leave United in the coming weeks.

Victor Lindelof is reportedly gathering considerable interest from Saudi Arabia and Italy, whilst Serie A side Bologna are now looking into Facundo Pellistri thanks to their worrying set of injuries in attack.

Now, news is emerging that Hannibal Mejbri may also be on the move this summer.

Hannibal Mejbri gains new transfer interest

Reports from Sam C on X have announced that Mejbri is expected to leave this summer with considerable interest coming from France.

Previously sports journalist Fabrizio Romano commented that Scottish club Rangers were interested in the Tunisian midfielder, however more as a loan deal.

Taking to his YoutTube channel, Romano explained explained: “Yes, there was an interest (from Rangers). It’s true, but Man United are only interested in permanent transfer. So, (that means) selling the player on a permanent transfer, not a new loan.”

He continued: “And at the moment, for Rangers, that could be quite difficult. So the conversation is true, the interest is true. But the formula of the deal is going to be crucial to understand the future of Hannibal.”

Alongside Rangers’ interest, their rivals Celtic also took note of the Tunisian, looking at a permanent deal for Mejbri.

Whilst it’s not known at this time which French clubs are interested in the 21-year-old, it is known that United are valuing the star at around £17 million.

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Bologna are currently on the hunt for anew attacking options after selling Joshua Zirkzee to Manchester United earlier this summer.

However, the club are now looking to United with one of their forwards in mind to fill the gap up top.

The Italian club finished fifth last season in Serie A, granting them access to next season’s Champions League, so need to strengthen their squad to be ready.

Now, reports from Sam C on X have announced there is “concrete interest” in one of United’s attacking stars, having featured in yesterday’s Community Shield match.

Bologna look to Facundo Pellistri

Sam C has reported that the Serie A side are looking into Facundo Pellistri, hoping to sign him by the end of the summer.

Pellistri has returned to United after his post Copa America vacation, causing him to miss out on the Red Devil’s pre-season tour of the USA. However now back with the club, the right-winger came on in the second half of United’s Community shield face off with Manchester City.

The Uruguayan was one of the few who didn’t take a penalty in the 8 round penalty shoot out which saw City take the victory.

After a loan spell at Granada, Pellistri has had a great showing at the Copa America which saw Uruguay get to the Semi-Finals, unfortunately knocked out by Colombia. However, the Uruguayan side beat Canada 3-2 to take third place.

Bologna are looking to the 22-year-old also due to the spate of injuries they’ve been experiencing with Jesper Karlsson, Lewis Ferguson and Emil Holm all injured.

It’s unknown at this time if contact has been made with the player or United, however we’re expecting to hear more over the coming days.

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Manchester United have secured a deal to sign Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich for a fee of £38.6 million, with an additional £4.3 million in potential add-ons.

This move follows a separate deal for Noussair Mazraoui, who is also set to join Old Trafford. Mazraoui’s transfer is expected to proceed once Aaron Wan-Bissaka finalizes his move to West Ham United.

These acquisitions bring United’s total spending on defensive reinforcements this summer to over £100 million.

Earlier in the transfer window, the club signed Leny Yoro, although the French defender was recently sidelined for three months after breaking a metatarsal in just his second appearance for the club.

While Yoro’s signing was celebrated as a significant achievement for United, the imminent arrival of de Ligt has raised concerns among some former players.

Paul Scholes, a club legend, has voiced his reservations, describing the Netherlands international as “second-rate.”

Rio Ferdinand, another former United star, shares similar concerns regarding de Ligt’s career trajectory.

Rio Ferdinand raises concern over Matthijs de Ligt signing

Ferdinand noted that the defender’s stints at Juventus and Bayern Munich left him “filled with disappointment” and expressed doubts about de Ligt’s ability to succeed at Old Trafford, considering it “a big ask.”

Speaking on his show, “Rio Reacts,” Ferdinand offered his thoughts on the moves: “Mazraoui will play right-back because Wan-Bissaka will be sold.

“I think that’s a good deal all round. I still think [Diogo] Dalot plays ahead of him.”

However, when discussing de Ligt, Ferdinand’s tone shifted to one of skepticism. “I watched him at Ajax; he was brilliant that year when they got to the semi-final with ten Hag before being beaten by Spurs.

“He was commanding, everything you wanted in a defender, composed.”

Ferdinand continued, reflecting on de Ligt’s subsequent career moves: “Then he goes to Juventus, you look at that and think, great move.

“A defender going to learn from the likes of [Leonardo] Bonucci and [Giorgio] Chiellini and all them guys.

“But it just fills me with disappointment with the way his career has gone since then.”

Highlighting de Ligt’s struggles with injuries and limited playing time, Ferdinand added:

“I think he had 16 starts last season. Lot of injuries, doesn’t start many games in the last two or three years, and Manchester United are spending 45-50 million pounds on him.

“That’s another two teams who he was a sub for, a backup defender.”

Ferdinand concluded by expressing his doubts about de Ligt’s suitability for United: “I think it’s a big ask for him. Big pressure. Big opportunity, but there is a lot of uncertainty over him after his time with Juventus and Bayern Munich. I don’t think he’s the answer.

“But it’s a great opportunity for him to go in there and be like, ‘you know what guys, I’m going to rectify my last few seasons and show you the real me.’”

Ferdinand acknowledged the role of Erik ten Hag in this transfer, noting the manager’s familiarity with de Ligt: “Ten Hag knows him, the character, the person, and I hope he does a good job but I am going to reserve judgement on this one.”

Finally, Rio Ferdinand assessed United’s defensive lineup: “If Yoro and Martinez are both fit they both start. No one else gets a look in but Yoro is now out for three months.

“Is de Ligt fit right now to play? Eric Dier was starting in front of him and he was surplus to requirements at Spurs.

“That tells you a lot. This isn’t a signing that makes me go ‘wow.’ Hopefully ten Hag gets the best out of him.”

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It’s been known for a couple of weeks now that Manchester United have been “exploring” a contract extension for their club captain, Bruno Fernandes.

CentreDevils recently broke this news through an exclusive that United would be discussing an extension of the Portuguese star’s contract as soon as he came back from his post Euro 2024 vacation.

A source close to CentreDevils claimed that United were “confident and relaxed” around Fernandes’ future at Old Trafford amid interest from PSG and Saudi clubs.

Earlier this summer it was reported that Saudi giants Al-Nassr were preparing a €150 million bid for the midfielder, however this doesn’t appear to have come to fruition.

It was revealed by CentreDevils that United aimed to renew his contract at all costs, sealing the deal before the end of the summer, which now seems to be the case.

Now, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that United have finally reached an agreement to extend the midfielder’s contract.

The deal will see the club’s captain remain at Old Trafford until June 2027 with the option to extend by a further year.

Romano confirms the contract is all set to be signed before the end of the summer.

The details of the financial package haven’t been disclosed yet though.

EXCLUSIVE: Manchester United have reached an agreement with Bruno Fernandes to extend his contract!

New deal will be valid until June 2027 plus option included for further season, June 2028 — salary at top #MUFC level.

All set to be signed before end of the summer window. pic.twitter.com/csC3HGkrgH

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 11, 2024

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Manchester United today completed the signings of Bayern Munich duo Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui for a combined fee of €65 million, including add-ons.

This double acquisition is a significant boost for United fans, who just witnessed their team lose on penalties to Manchester City in the Community Shield.

Despite a strong performance, United’s defensive frailties were exposed, with the team looking shaky at the back. The defensive pairing of Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans, alongside Lisandro Martinez at left-back, struggled, highlighting the need for reinforcements.

The arrivals of De Ligt and Mazraoui address these concerns, bringing in two world-class defenders to strengthen United’s backline.

De Ligt, a highly regarded central defender, is expected to bring stability and leadership to United’s defense.

Meanwhile, Mazraoui is an exciting addition, known for his technical skills and versatility.

He is two-footed, capable of playing on both the right and left sides of the defense, a profile United have been missing for some time.

Mazraoui’s arrival was made possible by the imminent departure of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who is set to join West Ham United for £15 million.

Wan-Bissaka is scheduled to undergo his medical tomorrow, marking the end of his tenure at Old Trafford.

Interestingly, Wan-Bissaka may not be the only full-back attracting interest from other clubs.

Real Madrid, a giant of European football, is reportedly considering a move for Diogo Dalot in 2025.

Real Madrid ‘consider’ Diogo Dalot for 2025

According to a new report from GiveMeSport, the reigning European champions are eager to upgrade their defense next year and have identified Dalot as a potential target.

Diogo Dalot, who joined United from FC Porto in 2018 during Jose Mourinho’s tenure, has established himself as a key player in the squad.

His performances last season earned him a new £100,000-a-week contract, giving United a strong position should any rival club attempt to lure him away.

Real Madrid, however, are reportedly planning to strengthen their right-back position due to long-term doubts about Dani Carvajal’s future.

While their priority target remains Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, who they hope to sign on a free transfer next summer, the Spanish giants are also considering alternatives.

Dalot, with his experience and versatility, is seen as a viable option if their pursuit of Alexander-Arnold falls through.

The report suggests that Real Madrid will continue to monitor Dalot’s progress over the next year as they consider their options.

Manchester United, however, are unlikely to part ways with the Portuguese international, as manager Erik ten Hag views him as an integral part of the squad.

Nonetheless, it is clear that Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on the Premier League as they look to bolster their defensive ranks in the coming years.

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