‘He’s back on it’ – Neville claims Man Utd ‘could never sell’ Rashford after England brace
Gary Neville claims that Man Utd “could never sell” Marcus Rashford with the England international showing at the World Cup what “a massive talent” he is.
Rashford struggled to get anywhere near top form last season as the Red Devils struggled to sixth place in the Premier League under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and then interim boss Ralf Rangnick.
It was a difficult season for most of the Man Utd squad but Rashford received more criticism than some over his continued campaign to end child food poverty.
Rashford was told by some supporters and media that he would be better off focusing on football rather than his extra-curricular passions.
But Rashford has bounced back for Man Utd this season and he’s carried on his form at the World Cup for England, scoring a brace as the Three Lions beat Wales 3-0 on Tuesday night.
Neville told Sky Sports: “He’s been like that for a good six months at Manchester United now. He’s back on it.
“That period of his life through lockdown when he achieved so much off the pitch, it’s hard to focus on football.
“I think he’s simplified his life, he’s still achieving great things off the pitch but in a more measured manner, it doesn’t seem as full-on, and on the pitch, we’re now starting to see him.
“There were people in the last 12 to 18 months that said Rashford needed to be sold at Manchester United. That was never bought into by me. Manchester United could never sell Rashford.
“He’s a massive talent, he can improve and he will continue to improve and it’s great to see him in an England shirt.”
Rashford and Phil Foden came into the team against Wales for Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling with Gareth Southgate
“I was worried a little bit in the first half when he missed that chance and I wondered whether that would play on his mind,” Neville said.
“But I was delighted he got the two goals in the second half and I think he’s actually pushed himself into a position whereby he’s the one I think will start on Sunday, he’s the one guaranteed to start in that wide position with Kane in the middle.
“It’s that other side where I’m not sure.”
There was a massive clamour for Foden to start against Wales after England produced a flat performance in a 0-0 draw against the USA last week.
And Neville thought the Manchester City midfielder did well, the former Man Utd defender added: “I thought he did really well because there was pressure on him, there was massive focus from everyone on him.
“I would keep those two in, but I love Sterling, I love Saka as well so I couldn’t really complain if any of them were in.
“Sterling has been a brilliant performer for Gareth so it’s really difficult to see, we could see two out of those three with one in behind.
“I thought Rashford and Foden were the two outstanding players [vs Wales] that looked most dangerous.”
READ MORE: England 3-0 Wales: 16 Conclusions as the handbrake is released, Rashford shines and Bale vanishes
Joe Cole claims Arsenal, Man Utd target is worth £80m as pundit predicts January transfer
Joe Cole thinks reported Arsenal and Manchester United target Cody Gakpo is worth £80m and he expects him to leave PSV Eindhoven in January.
Gakpo was targeted by the likes of Man Utd, Leeds United and Southampton in the summer and at the time he was available for around £25m.
The Dutchman ended up staying at PSV and it will now cost clubs a lot more than £25m if they want to sign him in January.
This comes amid his sensational start to the 2022/23 campaign. He has nine goals and 12 assists in 14 Eredivisie appearances.
The forward has taken that form into the World Cup and he scored in all three of the Netherlands’ group stage games.
It is now claimed that he could cost clubs around £51m and it is expected that he will move to the Premier League in January.
Man Utd remain interested in him and it was claimed recently that they have already ‘reached an agreement’ to secure his services.
Arsenal and Liverpool are also said to be admirers of the in-form attacker, though.
After he got on the scoresheet against Qatar on Tuesday, Cole suggested that Gakpo is being “fearless” at the World Cup.
“He has [put his name out there],” Cole told ITV after the Netherlands’ 2-0 victory over Qatar.
“I know there have been scouts watching him, he has come to the tournament and he is fearless. Great movement for the goal and fantastic finishing. He is going to be on everyone’s wish list.”
When asked by ex-Netherlands and Man City star Nigel de Jong if he would pay £80m to sign Gakpo, Cole added: “I would, 100 per cent.
“Because he’s young, we know there is value in youth, if he doesn’t quite work out you are going to cut your losses elsewhere but he looks like the real deal.
“I know it’s Qatar, I know it’s not one of the strongest nations but against Ecuador, he scored, against Senegal he scored, he is affects the game and players who affect the game, that is where the value is.
“I really like him, I have liked what I have seen at PSV and I am pretty sure there will be some offers on the door at PSV in January.”
Ex-Netherlands and Liverpool star Ryan Babel has claimed that Arsenal would be an “incredible team” for Gakpo.
“He has shown enough quality that he is ready for the next step, whether it’s in January or next summer,” Babel said.
“As a Liverpool fan, I would tell him to go to Liverpool if they make an approach!
“Arsenal would also be an incredible team for him, with the current manager and the project that they’re building.
“He has to follow his heart.”
READ MORE: Gakpo shows why Arsenal and Liverpool should be devastated at Man Utd agreement
Man Utd defender labelled ‘the best signing’; likened to ex-Arsenal man who ‘never lost the ball’
Man Utd summer signing Lisandro Martinez has been praised by Patrice Evra following his promising start to life in the Premier League.
The Red Devils paid around £57m to sign the Argentina international from Ajax in the summer.
Martinez was a key player under Erik ten Hag in the Netherlands and he was quickly identified as a priority target in the summer.
United eventually got their man and this sparked talk that Martinez would struggle in the Premier League given that he’s a tad short.
Jamie Carragher has been outspoken in recent months as he doubted whether Martinez could shine as a centre-back in England.
But Martinez has done well to silence his doubters this season as he has been one of United’s standout players.
He has formed a great partnership with Raphael Varane and he has helped United to progress steadily this season under Ten Hag.
Evra has now been full of praise for Martinez, who is among United’s “best signings for years”.
The former United defender has also likened Martinez to ex-Arsenal captain Per Mertesacker.
He thinks the Man Utd star is far more progressive with his passing than Mertesacker was in the Premier League.
“This is one of the best signings we’ve had for years at Manchester United. It’s because of his fighting spirit. That’s what United fans want to see – those players have to bleed for the shirt,” Evra said via Rio Ferdinand’s Vibe with Five YouTube channel.
“People were talking about his height and I was laughing. Some people said I was too small when I arrived in the Premier League as well. When you play with that heart and passion, size doesn’t matter.
“When he gets the ball, he is so clean and composed. Mexico were pressing everywhere [during Argentina’s 2-0 win] but every time he got the ball he was calm and playing forward. That’s what I love.
“He doesn’t play those one-metre balls to the next player. This is easy.
“When I see those [Martinez’s] stats – I remember Per Mertesacker at Arsenal, the stats said he never lost the ball – but he was passing it one metre, I can do that every day.
“But Martinez puts the ball through the lines like Michael Carrick. That’s what he does and I love that. What a player, what a player.
“All the other aspects of his game are great. I remember speaking to Edwin van der Sar and other people at Ajax about him and they all said he was aggressive and tenacious but also great on the ball and can pass. Top defenders now need to have both sides of the game.”
READ MORE: Gakpo shows why Arsenal and Liverpool should be devastated at Man Utd agreement
No Ronaldo move for Bayern Munich after Man Utd exit, stresses CEO Kahn
Free agent Cristiano Ronaldo will not be joining Bayern Munich, says chief executive officer Oliver Kahn, despite acknowledging “we all love” the forward.
Portugal captain Ronaldo will be on the hunt for a new club after his exit from Manchester United, which has come less than 18 months after his return to Old Trafford.
With the attacker’s focus firmly on the World Cup, his next steps are not yet known, though that has not stopped him from being linked to a slew of leading sides across the globe.
One club he will not be headed to, however, is Bayern, with Kahn reiterating there is no place for Ronaldo in the make-up of Julian Nagelsmann’s team.
“We have already dealt with this [speculation],” Kahn told Sky Sport Germany. “We have a clear idea, a clear philosophy of how our squad should be put together.
“We all appreciate him, there’s no discussion. We all love Cristiano Ronaldo, but that’s something that doesn’t fit into our idea.”
5 – Cristiano Ronaldo has become the first player to score five in different editions of the World Cup (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022). Limitless. pic.twitter.com/w6noDKxoVR
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) November 24, 2022
Kahn sidestepped speculation over Bayern’s reported long-term interest in England captain Harry Kane, with the Tottenham forward frequently mooted as a target.
“Of course he’s a very good player, but there are also many other very good players,” Kahn said. “I’ve read that everywhere, Oliver Kahn and Harry Kane.
“We deal with many, many players, and it is not okay to talk about players who are signed to other clubs. We have a very good squad that is doing an excellent job at the moment.”
Bayern sit four points clear at the top of the Bundesliga, ahead of Freiburg, and topped their Champions League group earlier this season with a perfect record of six wins from six matches.
Cody Gakpo Liverpool or Arsenal transfer over Man Utd
Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo is enjoying an outstanding World Cup at the moment, and it looks like he’s sure to attract plenty of transfer interest in the near future.
Gakpo has performed well for PSV at club level and is now shining brightly on the biggest stage of international football with some hugely impressive form for his country in Qatar.
Discussing his fellow Dutchman’s situation, former Liverpool forward Ryan Babel has named Liverpool or Arsenal as fine moves for the player if the opportunity arises.
Babel also mentions links with Manchester United, but it seems he feels Gakpo would be better off choosing a move to Anfield or the Emirates Stadium than to Old Trafford.
“We’re seeing a lot of interest in Gakpo around Europe and a lot of rumours about what he does next,” Babel told The Athletic. “He’s 23 and I’m curious to see if PSV can hold onto him until the end of the season.
“They are third in the Eredivisie but three points off the top. If they want to win the league they will need to keep him as he’s assisting, he’s scoring, and he’s always involved with his team’s attacks.
Cody Gakpo in action for the Netherlands
“You see him linked to clubs in England, such as Manchester United. Everyone has the right price so let’s see how he develops in the tournament. He has shown enough quality that he is ready for the next step, whether it’s in January or next summer.
“As a Liverpool fan, I would tell him to go to Liverpool if they make an approach! Arsenal would also be an incredible team for him, with the current manager and the project that they’re building. He has to follow his heart.”
Gakpo could be an important addition to the Liverpool squad right now, with Jurgen Klopp struggling since losing Sadio Mane in the summer.
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Arsenal, meanwhile, lack depth behind the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, so there’s surely a role for Gakpo to come in and give them another goal threat that could help keep them at the top of the table.
Still, United also surely need a Cristiano Ronaldo replacement, and arguably an upgrade on inconsistent performers like Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial.
Transfer gossip: Man Utd rival Liverpool for World Cup star as Arsenal eye Spain, USA forwards
Man Utd and Liverpool will go head to head for a Premier League midfielder, while the Red Devils may be interested to hear of a rift between a World Cup keeper and his manager…
UNITED TO ENTER CAICEDO RACE It seems that Manchester United and Liverpool have very similar lists when it comes to midfield targets. Jude Bellingham appears to be the priority for both sides next summer, while the two clubs also have a Plan B in common.
Apparently, United are intent on moving for Moises Caicedo next summer. That’s the word according to Sky Germany, with Liverpool also keen on the Brighton star.
‘Many other top clubs’ are also sniffing around Caicedo, who has been on United’s radar for a long time. They were frontrunners to sign the Ecuadorian before Brighton swooped, with the Red Devils deciding to leave it after the deal became ‘a clusterf***’ with representatives crawling out of the woodwork looking for their cut.
MARTINEZ COULD SEEK VILLA EXIT United could also be in the market for a goalkeeper, with doubts over whether they will exercise their option to extend David De Gea’s huge deal for a further 12 months. So they may be interested to learn of an apparent rift between Emiliano Martinez and Unai Emery.
Football Insider says the Argentina keeper had a ‘fall out’ with the manager during their time together at Arsenal. Martinez got away from the Emirates when he joined Villa, only for Emery to follow when he replaced Steven Gerrard a few weeks ago. And it seems the pair haven’t yet cleared the air.
United have been linked with a move for Martinez, with Everton’s Jordan Pickford and Porto’s Diogo Costa also said to be on their list of possible replacements for De Gea.
ARSENAL EYE WORLD CUP ATTACKERS Arsenal are being linked with a couple of World Cup forwards this grey and murky Tuesday morning…
The Gunners are said to be one of three teams ‘monitoring developments’ around Christian Pulisic. The USA star has never established himself in the Chelsea first XI and the Daily Mail says the Blues are now ready to sell in January, with an asking price of around £35million. Manchester United were known to be interested in Pulisic during the summer, while Newcastle are also said to be keen.
Arsenal’s name has also been chucked in the mix regarding Nico Williams. The Athletic Bilbao attacker is currently with the Spain squad, with Goal suggesting the Gunners, as well as Liverpool, Chelsea and PSG, as potential suitors. Williams has a release clause worth around £43million.
Read more: Five England Clamours for the VITAL World Cup clash with Wales – and a bonus one for later
Carrick explains why he ‘needed’ to exit Man Utd; he’s ‘ready’ for ‘different’ challenge with Middlesbrough
Middlesbrough head coach Michael Carrick has explained why he thinks he “needed” to depart Manchester United to progress his managerial career.
Carrick spent 12 years with Man Utd as a player between 2006 and 2018. He played 464 times during this spell and he won the Premier League title five times.
After retiring, the Englishman quickly turned to coaching and he was given a spot as part of Jose Mourinho’s staff at Man Utd.
The 41-year-old went onto work with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and he had a spell as caretaker manager before Ralf Rangnick’s ill-fated spell at United got going in December 2021.
Carrick took the admirable decision to immediately step down following Rangnick’s arrival. He did this with the view of becoming a full-time manager in his own right.
He has got his wish as last month he was appointed as Chris Wilder’s replacement at Championship side Middlesbrough.
The new Boro boss has got off to a positive start at the Riverside Stadium. In his first five games in charge, he has three wins, one draw and one defeat.
Carrick has now admitted that his exit from Man Utd was “needed”.
“I think it was needed, to be honest,” Carrick told TeessideLive.
“Manchester United was my life and had been for some time. I respect the club greatly and love the place. I have friends there and my son plays there still.
“So I won’t ever lose that affinity. I was at the away game two weeks ago with my son. That was a huge part of my life and that is football. You get attached to certain football clubs.”
He added: “When I’m in somewhere, I’m all in. But I got comfortable in that role at United and you’ve got to come out of that comfort zone sometimes to test yourself and make your own way. That’s why I’m here [at Middlesbrough].
“This is where I started all those years ago, so there is kind of a feeling of real belonging here – and I don’t say that as a throwaway line, that’s how it feels. I’ve felt really at home in these last few days.”
Carrick later suggested that he is “ready” for what is ahead of him at Middlesbrough.
“I think the biggest thing is that I felt comfortable in the role, ultimately,” Carrick explained. “Having that responsibility felt comfortable. Sometimes you don’t know how you’re going to feel but it just felt like a natural fit for me.
“Everyone was saying it must have been quite stressful but, actually, I always felt quite calm. So that was a real positive for me.
“I’m not getting carried away though. I know it was only three games and the situation I was in is a different responsibility from the one I am coming into now.
“But at the same time, it gave me the confidence in knowing that I am ready. With the team around me at this club, I feel really positive about what’s ahead.”
READ MORE: Who will buy Manchester United? The potential bidders for the Red Devils…
Brazil duo Tite and Neymar claim Man Utd star is ‘the best midfielder in the world’
Brazil head coach Tite and injured star Neymar have argued that Manchester United summer signing Casemiro is “the best midfielder in the world”.
The United centre-midfielder’s stunning strike in the 83rd minute secured Brazil their 1-0 victory over Switzerland.
This result means they are through to the World Cup knockout stages with a game to spare. This prompted Neymar to tweet after the game: “Casemiro has been the best midfielder in the world for a long time.”
Asked at his post-match press conference if he agreed, Tite said: “As a habit, I always respect opinions and I usually don’t comment on opinions, but I will allow myself to do so today. I agree.”
Without Neymar, Brazil were frustrated for long periods at Stadium 974 before Casemiro rounded off good work by Vinicius Junior and substitute Rodrygo to score the game’s only goal and send them into their final group fixture against Cameroon on Friday in a commanding position.
Asked about the Paris St Germain star’s absence, Tito said: “Obviously Neymar has a different skill-set. He is a player who in a magical moment can dribble past you and all of a sudden, you say, ‘What happened here?’. He has that skill.
“Other players are getting there to get to the level he is at and I hope they get there. Yes, we do miss Neymar, we do miss him. He has a big creative power, he’s very effective so we miss him, yes.
“But there are other players who can take their opportunity.”
Casemiro, who joined United from Real Madrid this summer, played down his decisive intervention and insisted Brazil were better-placed to mount a serious challenge for glory than they were four years ago, when they were beaten by Belgium in the last eight.
He said: “Four years have gone by, there are new players. This year we have a wider range of options, we have more players to choose from.
“Without even changing the team, we have a possibility of changing the way we play. If we substitute players, we have even more options.
“Therefore, there is no doubt whatsoever that the options are much greater than those in 2018.”
Switzerland boss Murat Yakin admitted his side had lacked the “courage” they needed to take the game to the South Americans, but swiftly turned his attention to Friday’s showdown with Serbia.
The sides met in Russia four years ago, when Granit Xhaka and Xherdan Shaqiri, who are both of Albanian-Kosovan heritage, found themselves the subject of disciplinary action after making nationalist gestures during their side’s 2-1 win.
Yakin said: “We have to focus on football, just on football. For both teams, this is a decisive game and it will be an interesting and exciting game.
“We want to focus on football. Everything else, I really don’t care about.”
READ MORE: Casemiro offers relief as Brazil show symptoms of Neymardepencia
Man Utd not willing to pay N46.4b to bring Super Eagles star to Old Trafford:: All Nigeria Soccer
Premier League club Manchester United have taken their foot off the pedal as regards the transfer pursuit of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen.
According to Sky Germany, the Red Devils are in need of a replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo who was released from his contract last week, but are not willing to meet the €100 million (N46.4 billion in Nigerian currency) price tag.
News #Osimhen: As reported he‘s one of the top targets. But been told that #MUFC doesn’t want to pay a crazy price around €100m. Bosses say: He is ready for the Premier League! What they appreciate about him: Speed, physicality. He’s a finisher! Thuram is not hot. @SkySportDE 🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/UTTfhx3AbH
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) November 27, 2022
Napoli President Aurelio De Laurentiis had previously revealed that Napoli will only part ways with Osimhen if the attacker’s price tag is met by a suitor.
Osimhen has become one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers as a result of his scintillating performances with the Naples based outfit since the start of last season.
The 23-year-old has scored 10 goals and assisted three in 14 appearances for the Luciano Spalletti led side this term.
The Lagos-born forward joined Napoli from LOSC Lille for €70 million in 2020 after netting 18 goals during the 2019/2020 season.
The 2015 FIFA U-17 Golden Boot winner has no release clause in his contract with Napoli, and is still contracted to the Serie A League leaders up until the summer of 2025.
Toyosi Afolayan
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Exclusive: Fabrizio Romano’s Daily Briefing – Pulisic to Arsenal or Man Utd? Plus Messi, Olmo, and more
Hello and welcome to my latest Daily Briefing – if you like this post you can get it in your email inbox five mornings a week from Sunday to Thursday – click here to subscribe!
Arsenal
Arsenal have been linked with an interest in Christian Pulisic, but my understanding is still that Mykhaylo Mudryk is their priority for January. Chelsea were not too keen to loan out Pulisic in the summer, but we’ll see what offers come in for him this January.
And just to clarify after a question yesterday from Muhammet – I’m not aware of Shakhtar lowering their demands for Mudryk. He was valued at closer to €40m in the summer but his incredible form means it’s changed and it can keep changing. Last I was told, it’s likely to be at least €65m.
Dani Olmo is impressing with Spain at the World Cup and I can reveal there was strong interest from Barcelona one year ago, in 2021; but then they invested €55m on Ferran Torres so nothing happened. I think Olmo is a big talent and could be great for Premier League too; but there’s nothing imminent or close as of today.
Barcelona proposal to Alejandro Balde for new contract will be a five year deal with an increased salary — also a release clause will be discussed, potentially worth €1bn, same as Gavi, Pedri, Jules Kounde, Ferran Torres and more.
Lothar Matthaus on Jamal Musiala: “He can be the Messi of the future, he is excellent. I have loved him for the last two years, I love his style of football and I love his personality. He is 19 years old, he is doing the things that will make him a top footballer. He has great passing, he is clever with his thinking and he loves football.”
It’s still a bit too early to be talking about the best players of the World Cup, but for sure Enzo Fernandez’s impact has been great. He’s young, inexperienced, but he looks right at home on the biggest stage with Argentina. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if top English clubs will try to jump on him in summer 2023.
Official, confirmed yesterday: Bournemouth have appointed Gary O’Neill as the club’s hew manager on an 18-month contract. The deal includes an option of another 12 months.
Christian Pulisic to leave Chelsea?
Christian Pulisic is the subject of transfer gossip and speculation again, so here’s my take on links with Manchester United and Arsenal…
Pulisic was already on Man United’s list in the summer, but Chelsea didn’t want to loan him out at that time. What happens next with his future depends on the proposals, at the moment the situation is still quiet; Arsenal’s priority remains Mykhaylo Mudryk for January, but it’s still early.
Josko Gvardiol at the World Cup so far:
2 games
180 minutes
166 passes
88% pass accuracy
6/9 accurate long balls
3 tackles
5 interceptions
8 clearances
2 blocked shots
0 times dribbles past
7/10 duels won
Still only 20 years old – this is why he is expected to make a big move in 2023!
Wayne Rooney: “Gareth Southgate needs to make changes for Tuesday’s game with Wales and given that it would almost take a miracle not to qualify, it’s the perfect opportunity for him to give minutes to players who have not been used much so far.
“Top of the list is Phil Foden. I found it very strange that Foden did not come on as a substitute against the USA. He would be a key part of my starting XI if I were the England boss. Technically, he is the best footballer England have.”
30 Day Free Trial!! To celebrate the World Cup *and* the Holiday Season all happening at the same time. Upgrade before 1st December!
Christian Pulisic was on Manchester United’s list in the summer, but Chelsea didn’t want to loan him out at that time. What happens next is not clear, it will depend on the offers that come in for Pulisic in January.
After being asked about this by Andrew yesterday, I also wanted to confirm I’m not aware of Michael Edwards to Manchester United being close. He wants a break from football and rejected Chelsea because of this. We’ll see what happens with him next season.
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Morocco’s results have surprised me, congrats to them as they’re really doing something special as team and with a great group. They’re undoubtedly one of the stories of the World Cup so far, I’ve really enjoyed watching them.
Morocco manager Regragui on Hakim Ziyech: “He’s incredible. A lot of people talk about Hakim as a difficult guy to manage but what I see is that, when you give him love and confidence, he will die for you. It is what I give him and he returns my confidence.”
Morocco head coach Regragui: “Trust me, Amrabat is a world-class player. He is a ‘key’ player in my plans. I expect him to move to one of the major European clubs after the World Cup.”
I had the chance to speak with people close to Lionel Messi and the message from his camp is very clear – he has not decided his future, he has not agreed a deal with any club, there are no advanced negotiations with any club. And it’s important to say he’s 100% focused on the World Cup with Argentina, not on transfer negotiations. Nothing will happen until 2023. Then he will decide his future.
What next for Lionel Messi?
It’s true that Inter Miami want Messi, and they are planning for him in their future. They want him as part of their team, but at the moment nothing is agreed. It’s also important to say that Paris Saint-Germain want to keep him for one more season, and they are trying to extend his contract. We also know Barcelona want to bring him back, but there are no negotiations yet.
These are the three possibilities for Messi, but nothing is decided yet. Reports saying it’s done or it’s close are wide of the mark, as far as I understand from talking to Messi’s people. This is the situation and I’ll keep looking into it to keep you posted.
Spezia want €15-20m to sell Jakub Kiwior in 2023 as there are many clubs interested in Serie A. Spezia hope to keep Kiwior until at least June.
West Ham approached Spezia to sign Kiwior last summer but the deal collapsed as he was considered untouchable.
There’s already speculation about Djed Spence’s future after a difficult start at Tottenham. My understanding is that Spence is not playing because Antonio Conte wants experienced players and Spence is considered a talent for the future. Tottenham were always frontrunners in the summer and they are convinced he’s going to be a great investment for the future of the club.
In terms of a January loan, no decision has been made yet; we will see what happens when Conte meets the board and decides the next steps.
I got a question from Cameron yesterday about this, but at the moment no, I don’t have this info of Spurs being keen on signing Manuel Ugarte; for sure he’s good player with many scouts keeping an eye on him, but nothing more yet.
Evra fires dig at former Arsenal star as he likens Man Utd defender to Carrick
Ex-Premier League defender Patrice Evra thinks Lisandro Martinez passes the ball like former Man Utd midfielder Michael Carrick.
The Red Devils signed Martinez in the summer transfer window from Ajax in a deal worth £56.7m after a couple of months of speculation.
Martinez had his doubters when he first arrived with many pundits, especially Graeme Souness, doubting his ability to cope in the Premier League because of his 5ft 9in stature.
However, Martinez has quickly emerged as a fan favourite with the Argentina international one of United’s most impressive performers this campaign.
The Man Utd defender is currently at the World Cup with Argentina and Evra has likened him to Carrick while managing to have a slight dig at former Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker.
“This is one of the best signings we’ve had for years at Manchester United,” Evra said on the Vibe with Five YouTube channel.
“It’s because of his fighting spirit. That’s what United fans want to see – those players have to bleed for the shirt.
“People were talking about his height and I was laughing. Some people said I was too small when I arrived in the Premier League as well. When you play with that heart and passion, size doesn’t matter.
“When he gets the ball, he is so clean and composed. Mexico were pressing everywhere [in the World Cup Group C game] but every time he got the ball he was calm and playing forward. That’s what I love.
“He doesn’t play those one-metre balls to the next player. This is easy. When I see those stats – I remember Mertesacker at Arsenal, the stats said he never lost the ball – but he was passing it one metre, I can do that every day.
“But Martinez puts the ball through the lines like Michael Carrick. That’s what he does and I love that. What a player, what a player.”
And Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand, who was also on Vibe with Five, reckons other “aspects” of Martinez’s game more than makes up for his lack of height.
“All the other aspects of his game are great,” Ferdinand said.
“I remember speaking to Edwin van der Sar and other people at Ajax about him and they all said he was aggressive and tenacious but also great on the ball and can pass. Top defenders now need to have both sides of the game.”
READ MORE: Transfer gossip: Man Utd to borrow Chelsea bit-part man as Spurs eye Uruguayan
‘Deji wants Chelsea, Victor wants Man Utd’ – Burton Albion’s Tunisian coach on FA Cup draw:: All Nigeria Soccer
‘Deji wants Chelsea, Victor wants Man Utd’ – Burton Albion’s Tunisian coach on FA Cup draw
Deji Oshilaja played a key role as Burton Albion advanced to the third round of the Emirates FA Cup on Sunday, November 27.
Burton Albion ran out 6-1 winners over National League South club Chippenham Town, with Oshilaja directly participating in three of their goals.
Predominantly a central defender, Oshilaja has done well in multiple roles on the pitch this season including defensive midfield, left-back and central midfield,.
After assisting Jonny Smith score the opener in the 26th minute, the 29-year-old doubled the advantage when he slotted home from close range on 44 minutes, and wrapped up the scoring in the 90th minute with a stunning drive.
Oshilaja wasn’t the only Nigeria-eligible player on parade at the Pirelli Stadium as Ibadan-born striker Victor Adeboyejo also went the full ninety for Burton Albion.
The League One club will discover their next opponents in the competition when the third round draw is held at Anfield on Monday night.
Albion’s Tunisian manager Dino Maamria revealed after his team’s win over Chippenham Town that Oshilaja and Adeboyejo want to draw Chelsea and Manchester United respectively in the next round of the FA Cup.
“Deji wants Chelsea away; Jonny wants Liverpool away; Victor wants Manchester United away; my little boy wants Man City at the Etihad as he wants to meet Pep and me, I want a Championship team at home and beat them and get into the Fourth Round,” Maamria told the club’s official website.
The third round FA Cup ties are scheduled to be played across the weekend of Saturday January 7, 2023.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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Transfer gossip: Man Utd to borrow Chelsea bit-part man as Spurs eye Uruguayan
Manchester United are going to try for a third time to sign Christian Pulisic while Spurs look towards Uruguay again…
PULISIC THE MAN FOR MAN UTD? Manchester United, Newcastle and Arsenal have all been ‘made aware of’ the availability of Christian Pulisic in January but it is Manchester United – who need some attacking incomings after the exit of one Cristiano Ronaldo – who have shown interest in the US international, according to ESPN.
‘Sources have told ESPN that United are not planning to make substantial moves in January, although the club’s decision to cancel Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract has left manager Erik ten Hag needing a proven forward to replace the former Real Madrid and Juventus player.’
That is slightly at odds with reports that Cody Gakpo will arrive in January, with ESPN claiming that United will be looking at a loan deal rather than a permanent transfer. Pulisic is desperate to leave Chelsea after starting just three Premier League games and one Champions League game this season. Indeed, the only Blues game which has seen Pulisic play 90 minutes was a Carabao Cup defeat to Manchester City.
It’s fair to say that he will jump at the chance to sign for United, who have shown interest in signing him twice before.
Here’s some Fabrizio Romano on the subject: “Pulisic was already on Man United’s list in the summer, but Chelsea didn’t want to loan him out at that time. His future depends on the proposals, at the moment the situation is still quiet; Arsenal’s priority remains Mudryk for January but it’s still early.”
SPURS EYEING ANOTHER URUGUAYAN Rodrigo Bentancur was quite the signing and Tottenham are reportedly eyeing a repeat of that move, with Antonio Conte keen on seeing Manuel Ugarte in action, according to O Jogo. The 21-year-old plays for Sporting Lisbon, twice facing Spurs in the Champions League and emerging unbeaten.
Spurs might be in luck on Monday as Uruguay are set to make changes for their second group game of the World Cup after opening the tournament with a pretty poor 0-0 draw with South Korea. Ugarte is tipped to come into the team to replace Matias Vecino, with the South Americans realising that they need more energy in their midfield.
NO MESSI DECISION YET Inter Miami are said to ‘expect’ to sign Lionel Messi when his PSG contract expires, but Fabrizio Romano says that no deal is done yet. Here’s his tweet in full:
‘Leo Messi has not decided his future yet. His camp guarantees that Leo is only focused on the World Cup and there’s no agreement with any club. Inter Miami want Messi and will push; but also PSG will offer Leo a new deal soon. Messi’s decision will be made in 2023.’
READ NEXT: Lionel Messi rises above the dross to breathe life into Argentina…
Flying Eagles-eligible fullback signs first professional contract with Man Utd:: All Nigeria Soccer
Flying Eagles-eligible fullback Habeeb Ogunneye has taken to social media to announce he has signed a new deal with Premier League giants Manchester United.
The England U17 international has put pen to paper on his first professional contract with the Red Devils.
Ogunneye has enjoyed a rapid rise in his career over the last few seasons, making his competitive debut for Manchester United U18s in his final year as a schoolboy.
The 2005-born defender made his UEFA Youth League debut against Young Boys in December 2021.
On the international stage, he became provisionally cap-tied to his country of birth, England when he started for the Young Lions in a 7-0 rout of Armenia in a European U17 Championship qualifier in October 2021.
“Proud moment to have signed my first professional contract at this great club. Grateful for my family and all those who have helped me so far. The hard work continues,” Ogunneye wrote on Instagram.
Ogunneye has yet to make his season debut for Manchester United youth teams.
Winger Shola Shoretire, striker Victor Musa and midfielder Maximillian Oyedele are the other players of Nigerian descent who represent Manchester United youth teams.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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EPL: Ronaldo knew Man Utd would terminate his contract – Piers Morgan
TV host, Piers Morgan, has claimed Cristiano Ronaldo knew Manchester United would cancel his contract following their 90-minute interview.
Ronaldo’s deal was terminated after he criticized the Premier League club, the owners and manager Erik ten Hag.
Morgan has now said the 37-year-old is a “smart guy” and was aware the bombshell interview would end his career at Old Trafford.
Speaking with American TV channel FS1, Morgan insisted Ronaldo organised the interview.
“To be brutally honest, I think that he knew. Look, he’s a very smart guy, Cristiano, he knows what he’s doing.
“When he rang me he was like – ‘I want to do an interview, I want to say everything’. I said, ‘If you say everything I think you’re going to say, then you’re probably going to have to leave the club’.
“He went, ‘I know’. So he knew what he was getting into,” Morgan said.
Ronaldo, for the first time in his illustrious career, is now a free agent and is already being linked with a host of clubs in Europe, MLS and Middle East.
EPL: Ronaldo knew Man Utd would terminate his contract – Piers Morgan
EPL: Ten Hag to bring Chelsea forward to Man Utd in shock move
Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, is ready to sanction a loan move for Chelsea’s Christian Pulisic, ESPN reports.
The Blues expect the American to leave Stamford Bridge in the January transfer window.
United, Newcastle and Arsenal have all been made aware of Pulisic’s likely availability.
Pulisic’s agents are ready to find him a new club four years after he joined Chelsea in a £58million transfer from Borussia Dortmund.
Ten Hag is looking to beef up his attacking line-up after United terminated Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract last week.
Pulisic’s versatility across the front line has made him an appealing option to United.
The 24-year-old is currently with the USA at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The forward has endured sporadic appearances for Chelsea this season, starting just three Premier League games. His only 90-minute outing for Chelsea came in their Carabao Cup defeat against Manchester City earlier this month.
EPL: Ten Hag to bring Chelsea forward to Man Utd in shock move
Ferdinand hints at Beckham Man Utd takeover with ‘consortium’ plan in place
Rio Ferdinand has hinted at David Beckham’s plans to take over at Manchester United as part of a consortium bid.
Recent reports revealed that the Glazers are officially open to selling Man Utd after years of protests by fans.
The American owners first invested in United in 2003 and they then became the club’s majority stakeholders in 2005.
It has also been reported that Beckham is willing to team up with potential bidders and purchase Man Utd.
Ferdinand gave some behind-the-scenes insight and revealed what he and Beckham recently spoke about.
“Becks will come with a consortium,” said Ferdinand on Vibe with Five.
“I saw Becks last night at the [England vs USA] game, I went to the England game and we were sat next to each other. He smelt beautiful, looked beautiful. He looked a million dollars, as he normally does. He didn’t look 10 billon dollars’ worth.
“But when you mention someone like Becks’ name, he’s obviously a part-owner of Inter Miami, but he doesn’t come [alone]. It’s not his money.
“It’s not him in terms of putting his hand in his pocket. He comes with a consortium. He comes with people who do have deep pockets who have the ability to go and execute on a deal like that.
“So that’s the way he’ll be approaching it, and rightly so. I just think it’s going to come down to a number. If you’ve got the number, and you can produce, that’s what it’s going to be about.”
Beckham made over 350 appearances for Man Utd as a player and a return to the club could be on the cards.
It is claimed that the club could be sold for as much as £7bn and potentially even more if a bidding war ensues.
Ferdinand adds: “I think when you look at it, the clubs that are successful over big periods of time have players that have worn the shirt, understand the traditions, understand the history, understand the ethos of the football club and continue that.
“Ajax with Edwin van der Sar, Bayern Munich have [Karl-Heinz] Rummenigge in there among others, Real Madrid, Barca – they all do it.
“They’ve all got players who have been in and around the football club at some point in their life and they’re back in there working at the club because they understand it. And it’s a key part.
“And then they have business people around them, to facilitate and run things and control the business element of the football club. And then those people learn on the job, but with a football background. And I think that’s an area that the new owners that potentially come in have to really look at.”
READ MORE: Neville admits ‘regrets’ on not speaking up on Glazers Man Utd ownership sooner
Ehibhatiomhan plays as trialist for Man Utd Youth after training with Chelsea, Southampton :: All Nigeria Soccer
Ehibhatiomhan plays as trialist for Man Utd Youth after training with Chelsea, Southampton
Flying Eagles-eligible striker Princewill Ehibhatiomhan is still hunting for a new club after rejecting a new deal at Reading.
Manchester United youth team expert and historian @mrmujac has tweeted that the Anglo-Nigerian center forward appeared as a trialist for the Red Devils U17 team in their 2-1 win over Blackburn Rovers in a Premier League Cup clash on Wednesday, November 23.
ACADEMY NEWS: Princewill Ehibhatiomhan…a triallist from Reading featured for the U17’s Premier Cup win over Blackburn Rovers during the week. Goals from Ethan Williams and Manni Norkett gave United a 2-1 win!
— The MUFC Academy 🥇🔴⚪️⚫️ (@mrmujac) November 26, 2022
The highly-rated teenager has now tested with at least three Premier League clubs since his decision not to extend his stay at the Royals.
Ehibhatiomhan trained with Chelsea youth team during their preparations for the 2022-2023 season, and scored in pre-season friendlies against Leeds United and Coventry City.
After his trials at Chelsea, he headed to Southampton and also showed off his goalscoring prowess by netting in competitive league matches for the U18s against Crystal Palace and Fulham.
Should his transfer to Manchester United go through, he would link up with Victor Musa, Habeeb Ogunneye and Maximillian Oyedele at Manchester United academy.
Princewill is the younger brother of Reading striker Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan who has five first team appearances under his belt as a teenager.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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Mudryk to Arsenal back on after U-turn; Rafa for Ronaldo at Man Utd
Arsenal haven’t been priced out of a move for their top target, while Man Utd hunt for a Ronaldo replacement and FSG look to splash some Liverpool cash.
MUDRYK TO ARSENAL BACK ON Mykhaylo Mudryk was “very upset” at the thought of being priced out of a move to Arsenal, and reports suggest Shakhtar Donetsk have since lowered their transfer demands significantly.
Mudryk said his dream move to Arsenal had been “wounded” after Shakhtar insisted they wanted £90m, and whether as a result of the winger throwing his toys out of the pram, or because that initial sum was way wide of the mark, they’ve now dropped their asking price to just £40m plus add-ons, according to Mirror.
The Gunners ‘have the framework of a deal in place’ and seeing as they are said to have offered £30m in the summer, they should be fine with spending an extra £10m or so.
Mudryk came through the academy ranks with the Ukrainian side before making his senior debut in the 2018-19 campaign. He’s impressed since but caught the eye particularly through his displays in the Champions League group stage this season, in which he scored three goals and got two assists.
RAFA FOR RONALDO Erik ten Hag wants Manchester United to replace Cristiano Ronaldo in January as they push for Champions League football and ESPN have revealed a couple of names on the Dutch manager’s shortlist.
The first, Cody Gakpo, was a target in the summer and has been in fine form club and country this term, notching 13 goals and 17 assists for PSV Eindhoven, and scoring a goal in each of the Netherlands’ two group games at the World Cup so far.
Gakpo is thought to be valued by PSV at around £43m but that could rise if he continues to impress in Qatar.
Another player who may use the winter World Cup as a springboard for his career is Rafael Leao (not that he needs it), who came off the bench to score in Portugal’s 3-2 win over Ghana.
The AC Milan star has been heavily linked with a move to Chelsea but is also said to be on Ten Hag’s wishlist, though will likely cost significantly more than Gakpo, with reports suggesting the Serie A side won’t accept less than £87m for their flying forward.
LIVERPOOL ‘SUPERSTAR SIGNING’ With two of their rivals for Champions League qualification looking to strengthen in January, what’s going on at Liverpool?
It was reported that the FSG chequebook may well be closed as they look to sell the club but Football Insider claim the American owners are willing to fund an ‘A-list acquisition’ if Jurgen Klopp and his transfer team can ‘source the right player’.
It’s not entirely clear which position they are looking to bolster but central midfield seems like a good bet, and England pair Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice are both mentioned.
Liverpool sources claim FSG will spend ‘huge’ money on a ‘superstar signing’ in January if a deal can be done.
Gary Neville: Glazers can exit Man Utd in right way, why I didn’t criticise them sooner and Cristiano Ronaldo’s future | Football News
Gary Neville insists Manchester United supporters deserve a manifesto from any potential new owners and admits he regrets not speaking out against the Glazer family sooner.
United’s American owners announced last week they are willing to listen to offers for the club after a 17-year reign dominated by fan protests and declining on-pitch performance.
“This doesn’t surprise me. I’ve been saying for six months that the Glazers would have to sell or part-sell,” Neville said in an interview with Sky Sports senior reporter Melissa Reddy. “Anybody who’s close enough to the club knows that.
“There is a need for equity and cash in the club, just for the investment they’re going to have to put into the stadium, the training ground and the sporting project. They haven’t got enough money.
“It’s a big moment now. The Glazer family will never get a great exit from Manchester United but they could have a more pleasant exit if they do it right. Over the next couple of months, I’d like to see them engage properly with the fans about who is going to take over the club.”
‘Man Utd fans deserved to see a manifesto’
If United – valued at around £5bn – is sold, it is expected to be purchased by US investors, but Saudia Arabia sports minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal has also confirmed his country’s intentions of taking over.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe – one of Britain’s richest men – is reportedly another potential buyer. Technology giant Apple is another. If the Glazers do sell United outright, Neville wants the new owners to communicate their plans to supporters.
“I think what Manchester United fans need to see is a manifesto from the new owners,” Neville said. “Manchester United can’t be handing over to an owner that basically screams against what the club stands for or what the club wants. So there are manifesto pledges that I think are really important – like the fan voice, the fan experience, and maybe even positions for fans on the board.
“But the sporting project needs to improve. What is it going to be? Are the new owners not going to take dividends? Are they going to make sure it’s a debt-free football club and that they’re re-investing? Maybe there’s a new stadium that needs to be built or a new training ground.
“These are pledges I can think of off the top of my head that are really important for anybody bidding for Manchester United. It’s a manifesto that needs to be put forward so that the fans can understand.
“There are going to be many bids in the many billions and I think if the Glazers want to exit in the right way, it would be to sell it to a party that isn’t only the highest bidder, but if they can get parties near the end to get to a figure they like, then it would be very nice for them to put something forward to the season-ticket holders.
“Because the reality of it is, if the Glazers want to do this right, they have to make sure the club is going to a party whereby the fans don’t believe they’re being lumped with another owner they don’t like.”
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Kaveh Solhekol gives an update on the potential sale of Manchester United and whether Apple is in the market for a sports franchise
Neville: I regret not speaking out sooner
Since becoming majority owners of Manchester United in 2005, the Glazers have faced relentless fan anger and backlash.
Purchasing the club through loans totalling £525m, the Americans then leveraged this debt onto the brand of Manchester United. Debt-free until their takeover, United were in the red by £495m at the end of 2021. In total, the Glazers have also taken more than £1bn in interests, costs, fees and dividends out of the club.
Despite the anger aimed at the family, though, United have continued to spend large amounts of money on incoming transfers – £1.3bn in the past 10 years, according to a study by CIES Football Observatory. Sources have also insisted United have invested in their facilities – notably the training ground, restaurant and swimming pool.
Asked if he regrets not speaking out about the leveraged buyout when he was a player at the club, Neville replied: “I don’t want to come up with excuses. It was probably because we were successful and we were managed by Sir Alex Ferguson, who stuck to football.
“No player or member of staff ever spoke out against the leveraged takeover. When it happened we got on with winning trophies, winning the Champions League and winning Premier Leagues. And the club, to be fair, carried on being successful. I worked on the theory at the time that we could have worse owners. They were quite passive. I never saw any interference while I was at the club as a player.
“But when Sir Alex Ferguson left, it’s then I started to realise they were only successful because of Sir Alex Ferguson. They haven’t been able to develop a successful sporting project without him.
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Melissa Reddy reports both Manchester United and Liverpool are considering new investments and the potential of an outright sale
“So the fact of the matter is, they’ve taken dividends out, they’ve not developed the stadium, they’ve let the training ground go to ruin. They really are second-class when it comes to the status of infrastructure at the club and the facilities. That can’t happen when you’re not successful on the pitch. So you put all that together and you get to a point whereby enough is enough.
“I started to speak out about two or three years ago. Many fans will say I should have done it earlier and I can’t disagree with them. I can have regrets about it all my life, but the reality is I have spoken out in the last two or three years quite a lot. I haven’t enjoyed what I’ve seen. The signs were obviously there 15 years ago and most fans were right. But let’s make sure we don’t jump out of the frying pan into the fire.
“I’ve expressed my concern about state ownership. I’ve expressed my concern about US investment. But whoever comes in, we need to know what the manifesto is. We need to understand what they’re going to do in that first five to seven years.”
‘Potential buyers will want Man Utd first, then Liverpool’
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Gary Neville takes a closer look on which club will be the more attractive acquisition – Manchester United or Liverpool.
In an interview with Sky News, Saudia Arabia sports minister Prince Abdulaziz also revealed his country’s intentions to take over United’s rivals Liverpool, who are also on the market.
But Neville believes the Merseyside club may have to wait for potential buyers as they will be drawn to United first.
“I don’t want to be disrespectful to Liverpool at all because they’re a massive football club,” Neville said. “When you look at the height of English football when it comes to viewing figures, fans, and commercial revenues – it’s Manchester United and Liverpool at the very top.
“Forget the fact that Manchester City at this moment in time create a higher revenue. Naturally through traditional means, Manchester United and Liverpool are the two biggest clubs in the country by a mile.
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Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal says he would love to see Cristiano Ronaldo playing in his country’s league and backs potential Saudi investment in Manchester United and Liverpool
“Manchester United will be more sought after and will fetch a higher price than Liverpool. Unless Liverpool have got something sorted, I think they’re going to have to wait a little bit because I think the buyers will go to Manchester United first – unless there’s a Liverpool fan who is very wealthy somewhere and has an allegiance to Liverpool.
“But I think if you were looking at both, as an asset side by side, you’d choose Manchester United and that’s not me being biased as a Manchester United fan.
“Liverpool are in a better position on and off the pitch at the moment, but you cannot deny the scale of Manchester United. When you look at commercial revenues, Manchester United as an asset are a better buy.
“I think the owner will think if Manchester United get it right on and off the pitch and Liverpool get it right on and off the pitch, Manchester United will be bigger.”
‘Ronaldo’s priority will be Champions League football’
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Gary Neville expects Cristiano Ronaldo’s next move to be a ‘cameo role’ at a top club where he can play Champions League football and prove his time at Manchester United was not the true Ronaldo.
The announcement of the Glazers’ openness to selling Manchester United came on the same evening Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure from the club was confirmed.
Ronaldo’s contract was terminated by mutual consent last week following his explosive interview with Piers Morgan and attention has quickly turned to where the Portugal forward will play next.
MLS and Saudi Arabia are possible destinations, but Neville thinks his former team-mate will want to remain in Europe and prove he can still compete in the Champions League.
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Melissa Reddy says Cristiano Ronaldo still believes he can perform at the top level of European football after news broke Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal are exploring a deal for the Portugal forward
“I think Cristiano Ronaldo is going to be looking for a top club on a four-month or five-month contract where he can go in and do a brilliant cameo role at the very elite of European football,” Neville said. “That’s what I think his priority would be – to stay in the Champions League, to stay at the very top and prove that what happened at Manchester United wasn’t right.
“I think he’s got four or five great months in him somewhere where he’ll go in and score 15 or 20 goals in that period. Everybody in Manchester will say ‘why didn’t we keep him?’ and people in the Premier League will as well.
“But he’s got that in him and I would say that would be his priority. I think he’ll get to the end of the season and then think about the next two years and what his last football project might look like. Is it in the US? Is it in the Middle East? Is it somewhere else in Europe where he’s not played before?
“I hope he does really well wherever he goes. I didn’t work out in Manchester in the end, but it was the right thing for the club to do in breaking ties and it was the right thing for Cristiano to do.”
Ronaldo planned interview with Morgan – Pirlo said of ex-Man Utd forward
Former Juventus manager, Andrea Pirlo, believes former Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo planned his recent interview with British broadcaster Piers Morgan.
Recall that Ronaldo recently sat down with Morgan to criticize Man United in every way, making it practically certain he would have to leave Old Trafford.
Ronaldo’s contract with Man United was terminated by mutual consent a few days ago after the interview, before Portugal’s World Cup 3-2 win over Ghana on Thursday.
However, Pirlo who worked with Ronaldo during their time at Juventus said the five-time Ballon d’Or winner would prepare everything beforehand, adding that he had been waiting for a long time for the interview with Morgan.
“I think Ronaldo had been waiting for a long time to give that interview. He would prepare everything beforehand,” Pirlo told Diretta.it
“Ronaldo has always had pressure on him and always will, that is not an issue for him. I don’t think it put pressure on the Portugal squad either because even if he had not given that interview, the media still would have asked him questions about Manchester United during the World Cup.
“I think this is why he decided to get it out of the way, like pulling out a tooth that is wobbly, and now he will be even more fired up than before,” he said.
Ronaldo planned interview with Morgan – Pirlo said of ex-Man Utd forward
EPL: Ronaldo’s exit from Man Utd is horrible – Mikel Obi
Chelsea hero, John Obi Mikel, has branded forward Cristiano Ronaldo’s exit from Manchester United as ‘horrible’.
Ronaldo’s contract with Man United was recently terminated.
Man United took the decision to part ways with Ronaldo after the player’s explosive interview with broadcaster Piers Morgan.
However, Mikel believes Ronaldo should not have done the interview, insisting that the timing was wrong.
“He is Cristiano Ronaldo, he is one of the greatest players ever to have played the game. I think he is going to get another club in January and continue his football career,” Mikel told Dubai Eye.
EPL: Ronaldo’s exit from Man Utd is horrible – Mikel Obi
Ten Hag doing ´unbelievable job´ but Man Utd must strengthen – Fortune
Erik ten Hag is doing an “unbelievable job” at Manchester United but the club must continue to strengthen, says their former midfielder Quinton Fortune.
The ex-Ajax head coach replaced Ralf Rangnick in the Old Trafford dugout following an inconsistent 2021-22 season, which also saw Ole Gunnar Solskjaer sacked as United finished 13 points off the top four.
The Red Devils lost their first two Premier League games under Ten Hag, but have gone on to register 26 points after the first 14 outings – five more than they managed at the same stage of the previous campaign.
Fortune spent seven years at United under Alex Ferguson between 1999 and 2006, winning the Premier League title in the 2002-03 season.
He is pleased with the strides made by his former club, who he hopes can land silverware under the Dutchman this term.
“Ten Hag has done an unbelievable job compared to what I’ve seen last season,” Fortune told Stats Perform.
“I’m sure Ten Hag would like to win a trophy this season, because that’s the nature of the game at the moment.
“He’s made so many good changes already, and you can see when you go to Old Trafford the positivity around the place about the way the team’s playing.”
It is now 23 years since Fortune joined a United side who had just won an unprecedented treble of the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League the previous season.
The former South Africa international believes it will take time for the Red Devils to return to those heights, but highlighted the importance of Ten Hag finding the right profile of players to improve the squad.
“Of course, he needs to make signings to strengthen the team and to have competition in the team,” he added.
“I was very fortunate that when I arrived in 1999 – just after we won the treble – there was competition for every position, and it was relentless in training.
“It’s not easy playing for Manchester United, the pressure that comes with it. So, they need to get the right characters that want to play for Manchester United.
“They need players who have got the desire to win, and that fit in with the style of play and in the changing room.
“That’s just the nature of the culture at Manchester United – it’s not about winning one trophy, it’s winning every single trophy and trying to do it.
“Yes, it will take a few windows for him to get the players that he wants, but at the moment for us, from what I’ve seen, it’s looking very positive.”
Romano provides update on Man Utd target Osimhen, confirms price tag for summer 2022 :: All Nigeria Soccer
Romano provides update on Man Utd target Osimhen, confirms price tag for summer 2022
Italian transfer market guru Fabrizio Romano has reiterated that Victor Osimhen is not for sale in the January transfer window amid speculation linking the Nigeria national teamer with a transfer to Manchester United when the transfer window reopens for business.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s second spell with Manchester United came to an end this week after an interview with Piers Morgan, where he spoke out against almost everyone connected with the club.
The Red Devils are now in the market for a marquee center forward to fill the void created by the departure of the Portugal superstar and have Osimhen on their radar.
Romano revealed that the Super Eagles star was valued at 120 million euros in the summer transfer window and explained why he’s not moved by recent reports that United will attempt to sign the former Lille man in January.
Writing in his column for Caughtoffside, Romano said : “We know Manchester United are likely to be in the market for attacking players to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, but I’m afraid I wouldn’t get too excited about links with Victor Osimhen.
“Napoli insist they won’t sell Osimhen or any other player in January. The price tag in the summer was €120m and nothing happened, now they’re doing great in Serie A and Champions League so there are no plans to sell him in January at all.”
Apart from Manchester United, some other Premier League clubs are reportedly eager to snap up Osimhen, with the likes of Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur credited with an interest in the 23-year-old.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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EPL: He’ll send wrong message – Man Utd legend warns Boehly over signing Ronaldo
Manchester United legend, Teddy Sherringham, has warned Chelsea owner under the leadership of Todd Boehly against signing former Manchester United forward, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ronaldo has been linked with a January transfer move to Chelsea since his contract with Man United was terminated a few days ago.
However, Sherringham believes the Portugal captain would send out the wrong message straight away should Boehly sign him for Chelsea.
According to him, Ronaldo is not a good move for Chelsea manager, Graham Potter, adding that the 37-year-old would want a full say on what happens at Chelsea.
“I don’t think Ronaldo is a good move for Graham Potter at all. Not so early in his Chelsea career to be dictated who comes in,” Sherringham told BoyleSports.
“He obviously wants to have a full say on what happens at the club and that would send out the wrong message straight away.”
He added: “Football surprises you every day and you don’t know what could happen next, so who knows?”
EPL: He’ll send wrong message – Man Utd legend warns Boehly over signing Ronaldo
