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Tag: Manchester United

  • Manchester United Defeats FCSB 2-0 in Europa League, Advances to Last 16

    Manchester United Defeats FCSB 2-0 in Europa League, Advances to Last 16

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    Manchester United claimed a dominant 2-0 victory over FCSB on January 30, 2025, advancing to the round of 16 in the UEFA Europa League. The win came courtesy of goals from Diogo Dalot and Kobbie Mainoo.

    Dalot scored in the 60th minute, while Mainoo added a second just eight minutes later, sealing United’s place among the top teams in the competition. This victory allows Manchester United to bypass the knockout round play-offs and proceed directly to the last 16.

    The match highlighted United’s strength as they moved closer to securing European glory. The victory follows United’s strong season, with key contributions from their star players.

    With this result, Manchester United continues its European journey with hopes of claiming another major trophy under manager Erik ten Hag.

  • Dan Ashworth Joins Manchester United as Sporting Director

    Dan Ashworth Joins Manchester United as Sporting Director

     

    Manchester United has confirmed the appointment of Dan Ashworth as their new sporting director following an agreement with Newcastle United. The two Premier League clubs issued a joint statement on Monday announcing Ashworth’s release from his contract at St. James’ Park.

    Earlier this year, the 53-year-old Ashworth was placed on gardening leave by Newcastle after expressing his desire to move to Old Trafford. While no compensation details have been disclosed, it is understood that Ashworth will assume his new role at Manchester United immediately.

    The statement read, “Newcastle United and Manchester United have reached an agreement for the immediate release of Dan Ashworth from his contractual obligations at Newcastle United. The terms of this agreement remain confidential between the clubs. Newcastle United thanks Dan for his services and wishes him well for the future.”

    United’s interest in Ashworth emerged after Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS company acquired a minority stake in the club and took over football operations. Despite reports that Newcastle initially sought £20 million ($25 million) in compensation—a figure Ratcliffe described as “a bit silly”—a compromise was reached.

    Ashworth, previously technical director at the Football Association, is the latest addition to Manchester United’s overhauled backroom staff. Omar Berrada is joining from Manchester City as chief executive, and Jason Wilcox, previously at Southampton, is the new technical director.

    Speaking earlier this year, Ratcliffe praised Ashworth, saying, “I think Dan Ashworth is clearly one of the top sporting directors in the world. I’ve no doubt he’s a very, very capable person. And he’s interested in the Manchester United job because it’s probably the biggest sporting director job in the world just now, with the biggest challenge.”

    Manchester United ended a disappointing campaign last season by winning the FA Cup, defeating Manchester City in the final. Despite facing significant pressure, manager Erik ten Hag will remain at the club, preparing for his third season in charge.

  • Man Utd Eyes Everton Defender Branthwaite for Defensive Overhaul

    Man Utd Eyes Everton Defender Branthwaite for Defensive Overhaul

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    Manchester United is poised to make a formal move for Everton’s promising defender, Jarrad Branthwaite. Negotiating personal terms is expected to be smooth sailing for the club, as they eye a replacement for departing stalwart Raphael Varane.

    Branthwaite, 21, has caught the attention of United scouts with his stellar performances, earning him a spot in England’s Euro 2024 training squad. United, fresh from their FA Cup victory, prioritizes reinforcing their central defense, with Branthwaite emerging as a prime target.

    Varane’s imminent departure from Old Trafford leaves a void to fill, emphasizing the urgency for defensive reinforcements. Everton, under pressure to comply with Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules, might entertain offers for Branthwaite before the June 30 deadline.

    While Manchester City and Tottenham have also expressed interest, United’s pursuit appears earnest, given their defensive woes. With a staggering 14 different center-back partnerships utilized this season and defensive frailties evident, Branthwaite’s arrival could provide much-needed stability.

    United’s summer of transition under manager Erik ten Hag aims to address deficiencies across the pitch, with defensive solidity a key focus. As they prepare to navigate a pivotal transfer window, securing Branthwaite could mark the beginning of a defensive resurgence at Old Trafford.

  • Andre Onana Takes Responsibility for Manchester United’s Defeat Against Bayern Munich in Champions League Opener

    Andre Onana Takes Responsibility for Manchester United’s Defeat Against Bayern Munich in Champions League Opener

    By Daniel Edu

    Manchester United had been experiencing a series of poor results in the Premier League before facing Bayern Munich in their UEFA Champions League group stage opener. The game started with promise for United, but a crucial mistake by Cameroonian goalkeeper Andre Onana in the 28th minute led to Bayern’s opening goal.

    Onana, who should have stopped Leroy Sané’s shot, pushed the ball into the net, adding to the pressure on Manchester United. This mistake seemed to boost Bayern Munich’s confidence, and they scored another goal in the 32nd minute.

    In the second half, Bayern added two more goals, and although Manchester United scored three, the game ended in a 4-3 defeat for the English side.

    Onana has now conceded 14 goals in just six matches in all competitions, highlighting his struggles at Old Trafford.

    After the match, Onana spoke to TNT Sports and took responsibility for his performance, saying, “This is the life of a goalkeeper. It’s difficult. We started very well, but after my mistake, we lost control of the game. It’s a difficult situation for us, especially for me because I’m the one who let the team down. If we didn’t win today, it was because of me. I have to learn from it and be strong. I have a lot to prove. My start in Manchester hasn’t been so good, not how I want. This was one of my worst games.”

    Onana faces another test on Saturday, September 23, when Manchester United travels to Turf Moor to take on Burnley.

  • Mason Greenwood Begins New Chapter at Getafe with Harriet Robson by His Side Ahead of Unveiling

    Mason Greenwood Begins New Chapter at Getafe with Harriet Robson by His Side Ahead of Unveiling

    By Daniel Edu

    Mason Greenwood, the embattled Manchester United and England footballer, has commenced his journey with Spanish La Liga club Getafe, accompanied by his girlfriend, Harriet Robson.

    The 21-year-old English player was spotted training with his new teammates in Spain on September 5, as he prepares for his official unveiling as a Getafe player later in the evening at 6 p.m.

    Greenwood had been away from competitive football since January 2022 when his girlfriend, Harriet Robson, made allegations of abuse against him on her Instagram page, sharing images, videos, and audio as evidence. This triggered a chain of events, with Manchester United suspending him indefinitely, the withdrawal of all his endorsement deals, and his brief imprisonment.

    After legal proceedings, all charges against Greenwood were dropped in February 2023. However, Manchester United initiated a six-month internal investigation into the scandal, which concluded in August. Although he was not found guilty, the club decided to allow him to revive his career elsewhere due to the backlash from fans who protested against his return to Old Trafford.

    While many clubs were hesitant to sign him, Getafe took a chance and secured him on loan. Reports suggest that the loan agreement includes a break clause in January, with Manchester United continuing to cover a significant portion of his wages while he plays in Spain.

    Upon joining the club, Greenwood expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I’m so happy to be here, and I can’t wait to get started.”

    In contrast to his polarizing image in England, Getafe fans appear to be embracing Greenwood. Some have been seen wearing jerseys with his name on the back and showing support for him online and offline.

    Notably, Greenwood’s girlfriend, Harriet Robson, who had accused him of abuse, has followed him to Spain, and they remain together. She even shared an Instagram story earlier in the day, wearing a Getafe jersey and watching from the stands at Coliseum Alfonso Pérez as Greenwood trained with his new team.

    Following Getafe’s 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid last Saturday, reporters asked Getafe’s manager, Jose Bordalas, about Greenwood’s past scandal involving allegations of physical assault and attempted rape. Bordalas responded, “It is too delicate a situation to trivialize this issue. Everybody knows what happened, the appropriate measures were taken. We can only talk about football, about other issues, I think, that the people and the relevant systems did what they had to do, and everybody knows how it ended – without a condemnatory sentence. He’s a footballer of the highest level, who comes to Getafe with enormous hope. We are going to help him to recover his best level.”

    Mason Greenwood is expected to make his debut for Getafe against Osasuna on Sunday, September 17, following the FIFA international break.

  • “Man United’s Ten Hag Reveals Sofyan Amrabat’s Positions”

    “Man United’s Ten Hag Reveals Sofyan Amrabat’s Positions”

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, has disclosed the two positions that the club’s summer signing, Sofyan Amrabat, will be deployed in.

    Ten Hag mentioned that the Moroccan midfielder will play in both of the central midfield positions for the Red Devils. He also noted that Amrabat has the ability to play further up the field and can partner effectively with Casemiro.

    Amrabat recently joined Manchester United on a season-long loan from Atalanta, although the move is still awaiting official clearance.

    Ten Hag expressed the importance of having depth in the holding midfielder position, particularly as the season progresses. He highlighted that prior to Amrabat’s arrival, they only had Casemiro who excelled in that role, and with Amrabat, they now have another quality option in the squad.

  • Transfer Roundup: Doku, Paqueta, Phillips, Solanke, Mbappe, En-Nesyri, Greenwood, and More

    Transfer Roundup: Doku, Paqueta, Phillips, Solanke, Mbappe, En-Nesyri, Greenwood, and More

    By Daniel Edu

    The football transfer scene is buzzing with potential moves and developments:

    – **Jeremy Doku**: Manchester City and Belgian talent Jeremy Doku are reportedly finalizing personal terms after Rennes accepted City’s 60 million euro bid.

    – **Lucas Paqueta**: A potential £85 million move from West Ham to Manchester City for Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paqueta was disrupted due to ongoing investigations into potential betting rule violations.

    – **Kalvin Phillips**: Bayern Munich and Liverpool are reportedly interested in the 27-year-old English midfielder from Manchester City, Kalvin Phillips.

    – **Carlos Baleba**: Lille’s Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba’s £25 million transfer to Brighton is close to completion.

    – **Dominic Solanke**: West Ham has submitted a £35 million bid for English striker Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth.

    – **Kylian Mbappe**: After talks with PSG’s Qatari ownership, Kylian Mbappe has given indications of considering extending his contract with the club.

    – **Youssef En-Nesyri**: Sevilla’s Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri has attracted interest from West Ham United.

    – **Gabriel**: Despite interest from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad, Brazilian center defender Gabriel is expected to stay with Arsenal.

    – **Callum Hudson-Odoi**: Everton and Nottingham Forest are competing for Chelsea’s English winger Callum Hudson-Odoi.

    – **Folarin Balogun**: Arsenal’s American striker Folarin Balogun is still under negotiation with Chelsea.

    – **Gift Orban**: Fulham is competing with Tottenham for the signature of Nigerian striker Gift Orban from Gent.

    – **Hugo Lloris**: Negotiations between Lazio and Tottenham for French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris have been revived.

    – **Ernest Nuamah**: Ghanaian forward Ernest Nuamah from FC Nordsjaelland has drawn interest from West Ham, Burnley, Brighton, and Tottenham.

    – **Nuno Tavares**: Aston Villa is reportedly interested in Arsenal’s Portuguese left-back Nuno Tavares.

    – **Evan Ferguson**: Arsenal is considering 18-year-old Irish striker Evan Ferguson, but Tottenham is hesitant due to Brighton’s high asking price.

    – **Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva**: Manchester City’s English right-back Kyle Walker and Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva are reportedly close to signing new contracts.

    – **Ryan Gravenberch**: Liverpool is monitoring talks between manager Thomas Tuchel and Bayern Munich’s Dutch midfielder Ryan Gravenberch.

    – **Manchester United**: Manchester United is looking to add a midfielder and goalkeeper before the transfer deadline.

    – **Mason Greenwood**: English striker Mason Greenwood is reportedly exploring opportunities in Turkey and Italy following Manchester United’s decision to part ways after a scandal.

    These potential moves and developments highlight the dynamic nature of the football transfer market.

  • Chelsea, Tottenham sneak into Carabao Cup fourth round, Manchester United eliminated

    Chelsea, Tottenham sneak into Carabao Cup fourth round, Manchester United eliminated

     A much-changed Chelsea side crept into the fourth round of the League Cup as they beat Aston Villa 4-3 on penalty kicks after their Stamford Bridge clash ended 1-1 on Wednesday.

    Manchester United crashed out though, as West Ham United avenged a weekend loss in the English Premier League to claim a 1-0 victory at Old Trafford with Manuel Lanzini scoring early.

    Tottenham Hotspur surrendered an early 2-0 lead at Wolverhampton Wanderers but eventually won 3-2 on penalty kicks.

    It was manager Nuno Espirito Santo’s second win of the season against his former club.

    Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel made 10 changes to his starting line-up.

    German striker Timo Werner took his opportunity to give his side the lead in the 54th minute as he headed a Reece James cross past Aston Villa goalkeeper Jed Steer.

    It was Werner’s first goal of the season.

    He wasted another chance to make it 2-0 before Aston Villa hit back through youngster Cameron Archer’s header to send the tie into the penalty kicks shootout.

    Ben Chilwell struck the bar when he could have won it for Chelsea, but James made no mistake as his penalty kick found the top corner of the net.

    Arsenal cruised into the fourth round with a 3-0 home win against third-tier AFC Wimbledon while Leicester City put aside their stuttering league form to win 2-0 away at Millwall.

    Brighton and Hove Albion’s impressive start to the season continued as they cruised past Swansea City 2-0.

  • EPL: Ronaldo Scores Brace on Manchester United Return Against Newcastle

    EPL: Ronaldo Scores Brace on Manchester United Return Against Newcastle

    Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice on his Manchester United return on Saturday evening, September 11, as United defeated Newcastle 4-1  

    The 36-year-old scored either side of half-time to send Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side on the way to victory before Bruno Fernandes and Jesse Lingard completed the score-line in an over packed stadium joyous at the return of the Superstar footballer.

    With two minutes left to the end of the first  half, teenager Mason Greenwood, cut in from the right and drilled a left-footed shot towards the Newcastle United goal. Goalkeeper Freddie Woodman tried to gather it but Cristiano Ronaldo took a step forward and shot it into the empty net.

    Newcastle’s goal came eleven minutes after the halftime when Miguel Almiron turned beautifully away from his marker deep in his own half and went forward. He squared the ball for Allan Saint-Maximin, who pushed it into the path of Javier Manquillo and Manquillo lashed it past David de Gea.

    Luke Shaw burst forward six minutes after the Newcastle equaliser, he played the ball to Ronaldo as he raced down the inside left channel. Ronaldo took the ball eased away from Isaac Hayden and placed his shot through the legs of Woodman.

    Bruno Fernandes scored a beautiful third goal and Jesse Lingard scored a clinical fourth to seal the victory but the headlines were all about Ronaldo’s return.

  • Ronaldo to wear number 7 shirt at Manchester United

     Manchester United have confirmed that Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo will wear the number seven shirt on his return to the club.

    The 36-year-old completed a sensational move back to Manchester United on transfer deadline day, rejoining from Juventus on a two-year deal.

    During his first six-season spell at Old Trafford, Ronaldo wore the number seven shirt.

    It was a period during whichbhe helped Sir Alex Ferguson’s side secure the UEFA Champions League and three Premier League titles before moving on to Real Madrid in 2009.

    Manchester United confirmed Edinson Cavani would now take up the number 21.

    But there was no mention of whether special dispensation had been requested from the Premier League to process the switch following the start of the domestic campaign.

    “Cristiano Ronaldo will wear number 7 for Manchester United again, like he did between 2003 and 2009. As we all know, the number 7 is a special number in the history of Manchester United,” the club said on www.manutd.com.

    “It has previously been worn by club icons like George Best, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona and David Beckham. Now, it returns to the man who succeeded Beckham in it, Ronaldo.

    “Ronaldo inherits the number from Edinson Cavani, who wore the shirt last season and in our away win at Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend.

    “As our new signing is allocated number 7, El Matador will switch to number 21, the same number our prolific striker wears for the Uruguayan national team.”

    On Wednesday night, Ronaldo broke the men’s international scoring record.

    He grabbed a late double as Portugal came from behind to beat the Republic of Ireland 2-1 in a dramatic finish at the Estadio Algarve.

    However, after removing his shirt in celebration during stoppage time, Ronaldo was cautioned.

    Having been booked earlier in the World Cup qualifying campaign, the forward is suspended for Tuesday night’s trip to Azerbaijan.

    As a result, Ronaldo has been released from the Portugal squad ahead of Saturday’s friendly against World Cup hosts Qatar in Hungary.

    This is to enable him to be set for an early reunion back with Manchester United.