Tag: Football

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The Manchester United team that Sir Alex Ferguson built in the late 2000s was one for the ages.

Across the entire pitch, United were stacked full of talent.

Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Patrice Evra and Edwin van der Sar kept the ball out of the net.

While at the other end of the pitch, Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez terrorised defences.

It was on this basis that United won their second UEFA Champions League titles under the Scot.

They also broke a then English Premier League record by winning four league titles in a row.

When murmurings started of Cristiano Ronaldo leaving the club, many wondered who would take his place in the squad.

Sir Alex and David Gill went back to Sporting Lisbon to bring another promising young attacker to the club.

Nani was signed from Portugal and was quickly dubbed the next Ronaldo.

Although he didn’t quite hit the same heights as his compatriot, he still had a successful career in his own right.

Most MUFC fans from that time will never forget his double in the 2011 FA Community Shield victory against Manchester City.

Losing two nil at the half time, United scored three goals in the second half to clinch victory.

Nani scored in the 94th minute when he charged down a defenders clearance to run through and win the game.

Despite being at the peak of his powers at that time, Nani is still going strong in the world of football.

He made headlines last month when it was revealed he had brought a football club in Portugal.

And it seems that his football journey is going to continue back in his homeland.

Nani signs for Estrela Amadora

Portuguese sports newspaper A Bola has confirmed that Nani has officially signed a contract with Estrela Amadora.

Estrela Amadora currently compete in the Primeira Liga.

The club was only founded in 2020, so they’ve achieved remarkable success to make it to Portugal’s top table so soon.

Nani has signed a one year contract with the club based in the city in which he was born. That’s quite a nice homecoming.

This is not the only United link to Estrela Amadora.

Former United teammate Patrice Evra is actually the largest shareholder in the club. So it will be a reunion of sorts between the two ex-United stars.

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Manchester United look set to potentially lose out on another big transfer target this summer, with Arsenal swooping in as front runners.

The Red Devils aren’t having much luck with recruiting to midfield so far this transfer window.

Key target Joao Neves has recently had the Fabrizio Romano treatment with his famous “here you go” on the wonderkid’s move to PSG. The Ligue 1 side have reportedly signed him for €70 million made up of a €60 million base fee and €10 million in add-ons.

United did submit a bid for the star for the same value, however at the time, Benfica were holding out for bids of over €100 million. Ultimately the Portuguese club caved and gave in to a lower price with PSG securing the star’s signature.

Another midfield star the Red Devils appear to be missing out on is Youssouf Fofana. The AS Monaco man looks set to be snapped up by AC Milan. In the transfer wars this would set United and Milan at 1-1 with the Red Devils beating the Italian side to Joshua Zirkzee.

Now however, United look set to lose out on one of their long-term targets, with the midfielder set to move to London.

United set to lose long-term target to Arsenal

Reports from Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport suggest that Arsenal are front runners to sign veteran midfielder Adrien Rabiot.

The free agent left Juventus at the end of his contract, recently sending his thanks to the Italian club for his time with The Old Lady.

In the recent weeks, United have been negotiating a contract with the ex-PSG star who refused to engage with contract extensions at Juve amid interest from the Red Devils.

However, the article explains that Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are joint favourites to sign the France international, with United dropping down the pecking order.

When discussing the situation, Veronique Rabiot, the star’s mother and agent said: “It’s true, I’m talking to some clubs”.

She continued: “And I’m the only contact. In fact, I am talking to certain clubs but then some media attribute to me contacts with other teams that I do not speak to. So I suppose that other people speak for me.

“But since the beginning of Adrien’s career I have been the only interlocutor with the clubs, and if a club has any interest they must speak directly to me.”

With United’s injuries now starting to mount up in a worrying similarity of last year’s Premier League campaign, the Red Devils may be about to lose out on a free signing which could be a cheaper option of bringing quality talent to Old Trafford.

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Yet another of Alejandro Garnacho’s posts has stirred up conversation this summer, with teammate Amad Diallo commenting on his picture.

The Argentine winger has been having a well deserved rest following his Copa America victory, with the star sunning it up in Greece.

First we had a lovely family photo, with him, his girlfriend Eva Garcia and son Enzo posing on a beautiful yacht detailed with the famous James Bond logo, 007. Whilst the phot wasn’t funny on it’s own, a witty United fan commented that the famous spy’s number also match Club rival, Phil Foden’s record ate Euro 2024. The England international managed 0 goals and 0 assists in 7 games, with the Three Lines only managing eight goals at the championships.

Garnacho’s next post featured him and teammate Facundo Pellistri on the beach, however the Argentine was wearing a football shirt belonging to Al-Ittihad. It’s quite interesting to see the star wearing the jersey with his idol, Cristiano Ronaldo playing for Saudi Arabian rivals, Al-Nassr.

Now, Garnacho has had yet another post spark conversation, with the star finishing his holidays.

Garnacho’s new post and Amad Diallo’s reaction

In the winger’s new post, he can be seen on a private jet, with the caption “Back home ! Can’t wait to be back with the team!”

Garnacho is on his way back to Carrington where he’ll be linking up with his teammates who were left behind from the pre-season tour of the United States. His fellow Red Devils on duty Stateside will be facing Liverpool on Sunday before returning to Manchester to reunite with the Copa America winner.

Teammate and fan of Garnacho, Amad Diallo commented on the post, saying: “He’s coming”, appearing to look forward to linking up with the 20-year-old.

The attackers have a lot of mutual respect and admiration, with both men tipping the other for 30 goals and assists this season.

Image Credits: Instagram – @amaddiallo19

Away days pic.twitter.com/FkFy3jzMUP

— Alejandro Garnacho (@agarnacho7) July 25, 2024

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Manchester United have not had the best of luck with Brazilians.

From Kleberson to Anderson to to Fred to Antony… Brazil internationals just don’t seem to kick on at Old Trafford.

Arguably the most successful was right-back Rafael.

Casemiro would have been in the conversation after his first season at the club.

However, the drop-off in his second season led to former United captain Gary Neville criticising the club for buying the former Real Madrid star.

But could that change in the future?

The English Premier League has definitely seen its share of world class Brazilians.

Juninho, Roberto Firmino and Ederson are just some examples of players who have shone during their time in England.

Surely, it’s only a matter of time before the same happens at Manchester United.

Regardless of the probability, it seems that the United hierarchy are keeping their eyes on the next big thing from Brazil.

The trend of transferring young Brazil players early in their career took off with Neymar and has continued ever since.

Vinicius Junior made a similar switch from Brazil to Spain when he joined Real Madrid.

And English Premier League have won plenty of admiration for securing the signature of Estevao Willian. He’s supposedly one of the best youngest that Brazil have had in years.

Chelsea and United looking at Gabriel Mec

Now, it seems that Chelsea and Manchester United may be facing off to sign another young Brazilian talent.

Brazilian journalist Bruno Andrade has tweeted that Chelsea representatives are in Brazil to discuss the transfer of 16-year-old Gabriel Mec.

The highly rated attacking midfielder is rated at €20m by his side Gremio. Chelsea have reportedly only offered €7m in fixed fees + €7m in add ons. Gremio are looking to get a fixed fee of €10m + €10m in add ons as things stand.

Andrade, who works for UOL Esporte, reports that Chelsea are not the only club keeping an eye on the player.

Manchester United and Germany side Borussia Dortmund are said to be interested and following developments also.

Gabriel Mec has not made an appearance for the first team yet, but has already been tipped for big things in the future.

If Manchester United do want to bring him to England, it seems that they’ll have to beat Chelsea and Dortmund to secure the deal.

Gabriel Mec: representantes do Chelsea estão no Brasil para avançar na negociação com o Grêmio. Ingleses oferecem 7 M€ fixos + 7 M€ variáveis, mas gaúchos querem que o fixo seja de 10 M€. Manchester United e Borussia Dortmund também estão de olho – apuração com @felipee_sil pic.twitter.com/PueqWxvU6e

— Bruno Andrade (@brunoandrd) August 1, 2024

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Manchester United are at a vital point in the transfer window now, with deadline day looming at the end of the month, and them still needing midfield reinforcements.

The club have been desperate for some midfield signings this summer, with the interest in Scott McTominay heating up and the desire to offload Casemiro still there.

United have been pursuing PSG’s Manuel Ugarte for some time now, however getting the deal across the line is proving to be a challenge. The French side are keen to recoup the €60 million they bought the Uruguayan for from Sporting Lisbon.

However, United a reluctant to meet the valuation, with the two clubs coming together this week to discuss both Ugarte and Jadon Sancho. Another twist in the tail though is PSG’s recent purchase of Joao Neves from Benfica for €60 million plus add-ons, potentially freeing Ugarte to leave the club.

With PSG seemingly not budging, United are understandably looking at other options, with one of their other key targets, Adrien Rabiot looking more likely to end up at Arsenal, Real Madrid or Atletico Madid.

Aside from these two, United have found three more potential midfielders to look to in place of Ugarte.

United’s three Ugarte alternative’s as midfield reinforcements

EPL Index has reported there are three potential stars now being turned to to strengthen the midfield as Plan B’s to Ugarte.

Firstly we have Sander Berge of Burnley. The Norwegian international has recently been relegated from the Premier League, which could benefit United. The newly demoted Championship side are keen to offload players, potentially making him a low cost alternative.

He’s described by Duncan Castles on The Transfers Podcast as: “a taller player, a more elegant player in the midfield, but very good at retaining possession”.

One massive benefit to the 26-year-old is that he has proven Premier League experience with 66 matches played and three goals scored with four assists. The composure he has, being able to hold possession and run the game could fit nicely into Erik Ten Hag’s plans, providing a new dynamic to the squad’s play.

Next we have PSV’s Joey Veerman. The 25-year-old is not only a Eredivisie Champion, but he also has two Toto KNVB Beker Cups to his name and two time Johan Cruijff Schaal winner. Across his three years at the club, Veerman has grabbed 22 goals and 40 assists in 115 games across all competitions, showing his contribution to the cause.

The Dutchman also had a great showing at Euro 2024, helping the Netherlands reach the Semi-Finals where they were knocked out by England. Despite his limited game time in the tournament, Veerman commanded himself well, making several teams take note.

Finally we have Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad. Whilst the 25-year-old was linked with the club earlier on in the transfer window following Euro 2024, United are circling back round to the star once more.

This ne may be more difficult with the Spanish club’s defiance in retaining their star man. Zubimendi’s technical skills were on stage for the world to see at the European Championships as he lifted the trophy with Spain, so it’s no surprise the club don’t want to sell him.

Ultimately it looks like United are keen on getting the Ugarte deal across the line, but any of the three alternative midfield reinforcements could be a great fit for the club.

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West Ham’s interest in Wan-Bissaka began after it became clear that United would be willing to cash in on the defender.

Wan-Bissaka agrees personal terms with the Hammers.

A move to the London Stadium for the 26-year-old appears to be imminent.

Wan-Bissaka is said to have agreed to personal terms with the Hammers.

Plettenburg reports that the breakthrough in their pursuit of the defender occurred on Thursday.

Wan-Bissaka has reportedly agreed to a five-year contract until 2029 at the London Stadium. The deal was finalised after both parties found common ground over wages.

However, an agreement between West Ham and Manchester United has yet to be reached.

According to the report, West Ham hopes to close the deal for around £10 million, while United are aiming to secure a fee in the region of £18 million for the right-back.

Wan-Bissaka joined United from Crystal Palace in the summer of 2019 for a substantial £50 million. During his five seasons at Old Trafford, Wan-Bissaka has made 190 appearances, scoring two goals and providing 13 assists.

Despite no longer being part of Ten Hag’s plans, Wan-Bissaka believes he has flourished under the manager. “It’s been good,” he said last August.

“Especially for myself. I’ve learned a lot under him. And there’s more to come, more improvement to be done. So, yeah, I’m happy. He’s helped the team. You can see the team’s transition has changed.”

West Ham’s pursuit of Wan-Bissaka highlights their intent to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.

The potential acquisition of the right-back would add defensive solidity and experience to their ranks.

As negotiations between the two clubs continue, it remains to be seen if a final agreement can be reached that satisfies both parties.

Could Jonathan Clauss have been another signing for Manchester United in this transfer window?

It seems to have been the case.

But you might be asking, who is Jonathan Clauss?

Good question.

Clauss is a France defender who was on the books of Marseille when the enquiry from the Red Devils would have come in.

The 31-year-old is a bit of a late bloomer.

He only received his first France national team cap at the age of 29, but has since made 22 appearances for his country.

Predominantly a right-back, Clauss is also adapt at playing in the left-back position.

Due to his age and flexibility, he could have proved to be a shrewd signing to bolster both sides of the defence.

Alas, it was not to be.

OGC Nice, one of the clubs owned by United part owners INEOS, have instead announced the signing of the player for a fee of €5m plus add ons.

But L’Equipe have shared some more detail around the move.

Jonathan Clauss rejects Manchester United

Apparently, United made a play for the defender in this summers window.

It’s reported that Clauss felt more comfortable with the vision for him at Nice than at United.

Which makes sense.

Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw are the certified starters for United in their respective positions.

Jonathan Clauss would likely have been a squad player than a regular starter.

For someone starring in Ligue 1 and playing for the French national team, he likely wanted to continue playing guaranteed first team football. So the move to Nice would have made more sense.

It does, however, indicate that the new men in charge of transfers at United are not being left for wanted.

It’s no secret that Manchester United are open to selling Aaron Wan-Bissaka this summer.

West Ham United are the most likely destination for the right back.

With that in mind, it seems that the transfer powers-that-be tried to bring in some early reinforcements to mitigate any transfers out.

Having missed out on Clauss, United have since seemingly moved on.

Bayern Munich defender Noussair Mazraoui has agreed terms on a transfer to the club. It seems that transfer will inevitably be completed as soon as Wan-Bissaka departs Old Trafford.

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Erik ten Hag will be rejoicing even more now that Manchester United signed Joshua Zirkzee this summer with the Red Devils now losing their second striker through injury.

Rasmus Hojlund picked up a knock in their Stateside opener against Arsenal where they lost 2-1. The striker has now been confirmed to be ruled out until after the international break in September.

Now, until then, Zirkzee will be the only senior striker when the club starts their Premier League campaign in the coming month.

This concern of having only one senior striker is the exact reason why the Red Devils scoured the transfer market for a second striker to take the pressure off of Hojlund. As a result, it looks like Erik ten Hag is going back to the shortlist to make another strike signing this summer.

Erik ten Hag reviews his options

In recent weeks, the club have been linked with young Hoffenheim striker Maximilian Beier who scored 16 goals and grabbed three assists in 33 Bundesliga games last season.

The 21-year-old is also being pursued by Liverpool, and although he was lower down in United’s priority list, Hojlund’s injury may have changed this.

The other potential is Brentford and England striker Ivan Toney. Transfer News Live on X has reported that Ivan Toney is one of the options that Erik ten Hag could be considering to support the Red Devils attack. The 28-year-old has scored a total of 72 goals, with 23 assists in 141 games for Brentford over the last three years.

Not only a star for his club, Toney made some key appearances at Euro 2024 for England. despite only having 42 minutes of game time across three matches, the striker grabbed an assist and scored an incredibly cool penalty against Switzerland to take the Three Lions through to the Semi-Finals on their rout to the Final against Spain.

Although these are the key strikers that United have been liked with previously, no doubt other potentials and links will be emerging as we get closer to deadline day.

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag would like to sign another attacker after Rasmus Hojlund’s injury leaves Joshua Zirkzee as their only striker.

Ivan Toney is one option.

(Source: @TelegraphDucker) pic.twitter.com/9dwe3LLfEQ

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) August 1, 2024

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Unfortunately for Manchester United, their opening match of the USA tour this pre-season did not go to plan.

The Red Devils lost in their first outing against Arsenal, with the London-based side winning 2-1 at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

However, the loss was made even worse by Leny Yoro and Rasmus Hojlund having to leave the pitch in the first half due to injury.

Now, United have confirmed how long they’ll be without the two stars that they were expected to be relying on throughout the next season.

Updates on the injury lengths of their two key men.

Yoro was filmed using crutches and a protective boot this week when at United’s training base at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Unfortunately for the centre-back, he’s looking to be ruled out until the end of October now, missing nine Premier League games. The 18-year-old will not be available for the Red Devils face offs against Liverpool, Tottenham or Aston Villa, missing the start of the Europa and Carabao Cup as well.

When the squad get back to the UK, the defender will have more tests to determine the full extent of the problem, however he wont be departing the States early and will remain with the squad for their time in America.

Fortunately for Hojlund, his injury doesn’t seem quite as bad, with the striker looking to return after the international break in September. Much like Yoro, this means that the Denmark international will miss playing Liverpool at Old Trafford this season.

It’s unknown whether these vital players being side-lined will spur on the Red Devils to make new signings, fearing this could be the start of a new plague of injuries which hit the squad last season.

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Manchester United have made some massive signings this summer, making a real statement on the club’s desire to return to the top of world football.

Already this summer, the Red Devils have signed “generational talent” Leny Yoro to rebuild their defensive line-up.

United have also signed Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna with the Dutch striker getting alot of attention from across Europe.

Now Erik ten Hag’s side are reportedly on the brink of signing Chido Obi-Martin, one of the top young prospects in Britain, with the 16-year-old joining from the Arsenal academy.

But even United’s current targets send a message of a stronger class of Red Devils.

Alongside Yoro, United are looking to sign Ajax’s youngest captain ever, Matthijs de Ligt from Bayern Munich. The centre-back’s time as captain for the Dutch club was highly successful having won the Eridivisie league cup and Toto KNVB Beker cup.

One massive target has been Benfica’s wonderkid, Joao Neves who’s on course to be an absolute force to be reckoned with.

Now, sports journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that one of United’s transfer targets is set to move this week.

Joao Neves signs for €70 million

Romano has give his famous “here we go” on Joao Neves departure from Benfica, with the midfielder set to complete a medical assessment and sign his contract this week.

The deal that will see Neves move from Benfica to Paris Saint-Germain is set to be a fee of €60 million with €10 million in add-ons, also seeing Renato Sanches go the other way on loan.

The deal is reportedly being signed right now between the clubs.

Whilst this does mean that United have missed out on one of their targets, it could well have a positive knock on for one of their their deals.

The Red Devils are actively pursuing PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte, with personal terms agreed and all that’s left is to agree a transfer fee. The two clubs are set to be meeting this week to discuss Ugarte’s move as well as a move for Jadon Sancho the other way.

This could well accelerate the Ugarte deal, with PSG now needing to make a sale to complete any further transfers this summer.

Dan Ashworth was already stalling on the deal in hope of the player’s price tag falling from £59 million as the summer goes on, with Ugarte unlikely to feature in Luis Enrique’s regular line up at Parc de Princes.

Now, the Neves deal could give United extra leverage in the conversations around a fee for the Uruguayan midfielder.

João Neves to Paris Saint-Germain, here we go! Deal being signed right now between clubs.

€60m fixed fee, €10m add-ons and Renato Sanches to Benfica on loan.

João set to travel to Paris for medical, had to be this week… and will be this week.

First signing, done. pic.twitter.com/4c3Tcbl4hL

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 31, 2024

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