1 hr. ago
Sir Alex Ferguson will turn 85 on New Year's Eve. Which, apart from a cause for celebration for many in the Manchester United family, could seem a reflection of failure if this season follows the 13 that went before. United have not mustered a proper ***** le challenge since Ferguson's retirement in 2013 and, in most cases, it has been evident by the end of December that they would not become champions for a 21st time.
They can look at one table to imagine this year will be a break with the recent past: the Carrick table. After Michael Carrick's return to Old Trafford in January, they played 17 games and took 39 points: three more than ***** nal, four better than Manchester City, some 14 more than Liverpool, a massive 18 clear of Chelsea. United could say they were the best team in the league for half a season, albeit when the stakes only involved Champions League qualification and when their peers' calendars were crowded by European and cup games.
Michael Carrick is preparing to battle at home and in Europe this season with Manchester United (Getty)
Carrick's catalytic return has earned him a longer contract, even if it is for just two years, hinting at doubts that Ferguson's former midfielder is really a worthy heir. Carrick's job changes now; United could go from playing 40 matches in a season to 60, to having almost every midweek off to games in virtually all. Given the financial importance of Champions League qualification to United, his employers might settle for simply being in the premier European competition, and its latter stages, again next year. Project 150, chief executive Omar Berrada's aim of making United champions again by 2028, may be quietly parked.
United's fame has outstripped their achievements for too much of the post-Ferguson years. Carrick has been an antidote to that – to Ruben Amorim's quotable brand of failure, in particular – but if he is a quiet man, United seem to have had too quiet a summer. This year, unlike many others, they are nowhere near the top of the spending charts. That may be a sign they are paying a price for past outlay, lacking the funds to compete. Tottenham seemed to take United out of the reckoning by paying £85m for Mateus Fernandes; City did likewise with their record £116m bid for Elliot Anderson.
#champions #year
They can look at one table to imagine this year will be a break with the recent past: the Carrick table. After Michael Carrick's return to Old Trafford in January, they played 17 games and took 39 points: three more than ***** nal, four better than Manchester City, some 14 more than Liverpool, a massive 18 clear of Chelsea. United could say they were the best team in the league for half a season, albeit when the stakes only involved Champions League qualification and when their peers' calendars were crowded by European and cup games.
Michael Carrick is preparing to battle at home and in Europe this season with Manchester United (Getty)
Carrick's catalytic return has earned him a longer contract, even if it is for just two years, hinting at doubts that Ferguson's former midfielder is really a worthy heir. Carrick's job changes now; United could go from playing 40 matches in a season to 60, to having almost every midweek off to games in virtually all. Given the financial importance of Champions League qualification to United, his employers might settle for simply being in the premier European competition, and its latter stages, again next year. Project 150, chief executive Omar Berrada's aim of making United champions again by 2028, may be quietly parked.
United's fame has outstripped their achievements for too much of the post-Ferguson years. Carrick has been an antidote to that – to Ruben Amorim's quotable brand of failure, in particular – but if he is a quiet man, United seem to have had too quiet a summer. This year, unlike many others, they are nowhere near the top of the spending charts. That may be a sign they are paying a price for past outlay, lacking the funds to compete. Tottenham seemed to take United out of the reckoning by paying £85m for Mateus Fernandes; City did likewise with their record £116m bid for Elliot Anderson.
#champions #year
24 hours ago
Roberto De Zerbi and Matthias Jaissle are at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and St James' Park, respectively. Newcastle United remain interested in signing Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lucas Bergvall, according to The Daily Mail.
Spurs are holding out for a fee in excess of £50 milllion after the Magpies tested their resolve earlier in the summer with a bid of around £46m, which was immediately turned down.
Despite that initial rejection, Newcastle continue to monitor the 'unstoppable' 20-year-old as they look to revamp their midfield.
Bergvall's uncertain status at Tottenham stems from his desire for guaranteed playing time. After choosing Spurs over Barcelona in 2024, leaving Swedish side Djurgardens in a €20m deal, Bergvall enjoyed a productive debut season in London, making 45 appearances in all competitions and helping Tottenham win the Europa League in 2025.
However, his minutes dropped significantly towards the end of last season under Roberto De Zerbi. In the final stretch of the league campaign, Bergvall started just once in Tottenham's last six matches, playing only 112 minutes in total. Competition for places has intensified even further this summer following the arrivals of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. With his pathway to regular football increasingly blocked, Bergvall has informed Tottenham he wants to leave in search of first-team opportunities.
#roberto
Spurs are holding out for a fee in excess of £50 milllion after the Magpies tested their resolve earlier in the summer with a bid of around £46m, which was immediately turned down.
Despite that initial rejection, Newcastle continue to monitor the 'unstoppable' 20-year-old as they look to revamp their midfield.
Bergvall's uncertain status at Tottenham stems from his desire for guaranteed playing time. After choosing Spurs over Barcelona in 2024, leaving Swedish side Djurgardens in a €20m deal, Bergvall enjoyed a productive debut season in London, making 45 appearances in all competitions and helping Tottenham win the Europa League in 2025.
However, his minutes dropped significantly towards the end of last season under Roberto De Zerbi. In the final stretch of the league campaign, Bergvall started just once in Tottenham's last six matches, playing only 112 minutes in total. Competition for places has intensified even further this summer following the arrivals of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes. With his pathway to regular football increasingly blocked, Bergvall has informed Tottenham he wants to leave in search of first-team opportunities.
#roberto
1 day ago
This looks like the most unpredictable Premier League season in years. Nine clubs (Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, Fulham, Ipswich and Newcastle) begin the season with new managers, with a further two in Michael Carrick at Manchester United and Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham Hotspur starting their first full season in charge. With so much change, it can be even more difficult to know how certain teams will line up to begin the new season, or how certain players who impressed last season could be made to fit into a new system.
There are just 33 days between the World Cup final and the start of the Premier League season. England players, such as ****** nal's Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, only returned to their clubs a couple of weeks before the new season and may need to be eased in over the first few matches. Erling Haaland usually hits the ground running (he has twice reached 10 goals after just six games) but what will the impact of reaching the World Cup quarter-finals with Norway and a shortened pre-season have on the Manchester City striker?
Erling Haaland only returned to pre-season training last week (PA)
It can take time to adjust to a new club or a new league. Liverpool's Florian Wirtz is the most obvious example of a player who arrived on a huge fee and with high expectations last summer but who then struggled to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League. Morgan Rogers is this summer's biggest signing but while he has Premier League experience and thrived at Aston Villa last season, it could be a risk to drop him straight in without knowing how he will operate under Xabi Alonso at Chelsea.
Manchester United were flying over the second half of last season under Michael Carrick, but the Premier League was the only competition they were involved in. How do United balance a busier schedule this season and what impact will playing in the Champions League have on players such as Bruno Fernandes? Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Sunderland have tougher schedules as they also compete in the Europa League, with Brighton in the Conference League.
#united #Chelsea
There are just 33 days between the World Cup final and the start of the Premier League season. England players, such as ****** nal's Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, only returned to their clubs a couple of weeks before the new season and may need to be eased in over the first few matches. Erling Haaland usually hits the ground running (he has twice reached 10 goals after just six games) but what will the impact of reaching the World Cup quarter-finals with Norway and a shortened pre-season have on the Manchester City striker?
Erling Haaland only returned to pre-season training last week (PA)
It can take time to adjust to a new club or a new league. Liverpool's Florian Wirtz is the most obvious example of a player who arrived on a huge fee and with high expectations last summer but who then struggled to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League. Morgan Rogers is this summer's biggest signing but while he has Premier League experience and thrived at Aston Villa last season, it could be a risk to drop him straight in without knowing how he will operate under Xabi Alonso at Chelsea.
Manchester United were flying over the second half of last season under Michael Carrick, but the Premier League was the only competition they were involved in. How do United balance a busier schedule this season and what impact will playing in the Champions League have on players such as Bruno Fernandes? Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Sunderland have tougher schedules as they also compete in the Europa League, with Brighton in the Conference League.
#united #Chelsea
2 days ago
One-Day Cup, men's semi-final, Radlett
Middlesex 255-8 (48.4 overs): Hollman 83*, Fernandes 44, Helm 40; Ackermann 3-46
Durham 254-7 (50 overs): Rhodes 80, Ackermann 71*; Hollman 3-53
Middlesex beat Durham by two wickets
Scorecard
#helm
Middlesex 255-8 (48.4 overs): Hollman 83*, Fernandes 44, Helm 40; Ackermann 3-46
Durham 254-7 (50 overs): Rhodes 80, Ackermann 71*; Hollman 3-53
Middlesex beat Durham by two wickets
Scorecard
#helm
2 days ago
Tottenham Hotspur concluded an unbeaten preseason campaign with a 2-2 draw against TSG Hoffenheim.
Following yesterday's 3-0 win against the Bundesliga side, this was a more casual affair with the match held at Spurs' training ground as Roberto De Zerbi named a heavily rotated side. It was the visitors who opened the scoring via a penalty, as James Maddison dragged down Leon Avdullahu, before Spurs struck twice before half-time courtesy of Ben Davies and Luca Williams-Barnett. An equalizer by The Kraichgauers as Valentin Gendry smashed home a volley was the lone goal of the second half.
Here are my top ten talking points from Spurs' final match of preseason against TSG Hoffenheim (again).
As predicted in yesterday's takeaways piece, many of the players that had either been absent this preseason or had seen limited involvement thus far were named in today's XI. James Maddison, Pape Matar Sarr, Rodrigo Bentancur, Souza, and Damola Ajayi made their first appearances of preseason, with Kevin Danso and Mateus Fernandes returning to the side after having limited involvement.
It was a promising sign for the strength of the coming weekend's squad, with De Zerbi potentially having a deeper set of players from which to choose a more well-rounded side.
#side
Following yesterday's 3-0 win against the Bundesliga side, this was a more casual affair with the match held at Spurs' training ground as Roberto De Zerbi named a heavily rotated side. It was the visitors who opened the scoring via a penalty, as James Maddison dragged down Leon Avdullahu, before Spurs struck twice before half-time courtesy of Ben Davies and Luca Williams-Barnett. An equalizer by The Kraichgauers as Valentin Gendry smashed home a volley was the lone goal of the second half.
Here are my top ten talking points from Spurs' final match of preseason against TSG Hoffenheim (again).
As predicted in yesterday's takeaways piece, many of the players that had either been absent this preseason or had seen limited involvement thus far were named in today's XI. James Maddison, Pape Matar Sarr, Rodrigo Bentancur, Souza, and Damola Ajayi made their first appearances of preseason, with Kevin Danso and Mateus Fernandes returning to the side after having limited involvement.
It was a promising sign for the strength of the coming weekend's squad, with De Zerbi potentially having a deeper set of players from which to choose a more well-rounded side.
#side
2 days ago
This was a pre-season finale to forget for Manchester United.
Just a week away from their Premier League opener at promoted Hull City on Saturday, Michael Carrick's men took the lead twice against AC Milan before finishing on the wrong end of a 4-2 beating.
First, the positives.
Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez all made their first appearances of pre-season. Skipper Bruno Fernandes and Youri Tielemans played for the full 90 minutes.
From the looks of it, there are no fresh injury concerns for Michael Carrick at the end of a six-match pre-season that has been largely positive, albeit with a foot issue for Mason Mount in Gothenburg seven days ago that was initially shrugged off as a precaution but has now kept the in-form midfielder out for almost three full games.
#season
Just a week away from their Premier League opener at promoted Hull City on Saturday, Michael Carrick's men took the lead twice against AC Milan before finishing on the wrong end of a 4-2 beating.
First, the positives.
Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez all made their first appearances of pre-season. Skipper Bruno Fernandes and Youri Tielemans played for the full 90 minutes.
From the looks of it, there are no fresh injury concerns for Michael Carrick at the end of a six-match pre-season that has been largely positive, albeit with a foot issue for Mason Mount in Gothenburg seven days ago that was initially shrugged off as a precaution but has now kept the in-form midfielder out for almost three full games.
#season
2 days ago
Where to watch Burnley vs. West Ham live stream, TV channel, start time for EFL Championship match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Two Championship-title favorites will go head-to-head Sunday to kick off their second-tier campaigns — get ready for Burnley vs. West Ham.
Even after selling top talents Mateus Fernandes and Crysencio Summerville in the offseason, West Ham are still favored to lift the trophy next spring. Joel Veltman and Manor Soloman are reassuring additions though, and a 3-1 victory over Portsmouth in the EFL Cup last weekend showed that the Hammers are ready to play.
Meanwhile, Burnley is entering their first campaign with Nicky Hayen at the helm, ushering in a new era for the club. While some key players departed from Turf Moor during the transfer window, some fresh faces are still expected to arrive in the coming weeks. After failing to win any preseason fixtures, Burnley could benefit from a victory at home.
Both of these clubs are looking to make a quick return to the Premier League after being relegated last season.
#sporting
Two Championship-title favorites will go head-to-head Sunday to kick off their second-tier campaigns — get ready for Burnley vs. West Ham.
Even after selling top talents Mateus Fernandes and Crysencio Summerville in the offseason, West Ham are still favored to lift the trophy next spring. Joel Veltman and Manor Soloman are reassuring additions though, and a 3-1 victory over Portsmouth in the EFL Cup last weekend showed that the Hammers are ready to play.
Meanwhile, Burnley is entering their first campaign with Nicky Hayen at the helm, ushering in a new era for the club. While some key players departed from Turf Moor during the transfer window, some fresh faces are still expected to arrive in the coming weeks. After failing to win any preseason fixtures, Burnley could benefit from a victory at home.
Both of these clubs are looking to make a quick return to the Premier League after being relegated last season.
#sporting
2 days ago
Jalin Turner is not getting paid by the hour because he needed just 39 seconds to lay waste to Kaue Fernandes at UFC 330 on Saturday.
After a brief retirement, Turner has returned to action with a renewed purpose and he showed that he's still one of the top lightweights in the world with his latest performance.
The fight ended after Fernandes threw an ill-advised spinning back fist and Turner quickly countered with a punch of his own followed by an uppercut that blasted the Brazilian and sent him down to the canvas. Turner continued unloading shots until referee Jason Herzog saw enough as Fernandes fell unconscious with the fight being stopped at 39 seconds into the opening round.
Turner has now won two fights in a row — both by knockout — and he's looking to get back into the lightweight top 15 now that he's sticking around.
"I would like to see a number next to my name again," Turner said after his win. "I'd like to see it again."
#turner #fernandes #like #saturday
After a brief retirement, Turner has returned to action with a renewed purpose and he showed that he's still one of the top lightweights in the world with his latest performance.
The fight ended after Fernandes threw an ill-advised spinning back fist and Turner quickly countered with a punch of his own followed by an uppercut that blasted the Brazilian and sent him down to the canvas. Turner continued unloading shots until referee Jason Herzog saw enough as Fernandes fell unconscious with the fight being stopped at 39 seconds into the opening round.
Turner has now won two fights in a row — both by knockout — and he's looking to get back into the lightweight top 15 now that he's sticking around.
"I would like to see a number next to my name again," Turner said after his win. "I'd like to see it again."
#turner #fernandes #like #saturday
2 days ago
Jalin Turner kept his 100% finish rate in tact earlier tonight (Sat., Aug. 15, 2026) at UFC 330 LIVE on Paramount+ from inside Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, Penn., as "Tarantula" put a quick stop to lightweight striker Kaue Fernandes with a 39-second knockout (punches).
Turner, who retired for about six months in 2025, was coming off a knockout win over Edson Barboza last December. The lightweight contender was a large betting favorite when odds first released, but money came in on Fernandes as the fight got closer. Some thought Fernandes' slick leg kicks and finishing ability could be enough to hand Turner the fifth knockout loss of his career.
This fight was nearly over before it even started. The two fighters exchanged a few shots over the first 30 seconds of action before Turner unloaded a perfectly-timed left hand that dropped Fernandes. Turner quickly rushed over and unloaded brutal punches from top position that had Fernandes' head moving like a speed bag. The referee finally stepped in as Fernandes' eyes rolled in the back of his head.
Check out the video highlights below:
For more UFC 330 results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
#first #head
Turner, who retired for about six months in 2025, was coming off a knockout win over Edson Barboza last December. The lightweight contender was a large betting favorite when odds first released, but money came in on Fernandes as the fight got closer. Some thought Fernandes' slick leg kicks and finishing ability could be enough to hand Turner the fifth knockout loss of his career.
This fight was nearly over before it even started. The two fighters exchanged a few shots over the first 30 seconds of action before Turner unloaded a perfectly-timed left hand that dropped Fernandes. Turner quickly rushed over and unloaded brutal punches from top position that had Fernandes' head moving like a speed bag. The referee finally stepped in as Fernandes' eyes rolled in the back of his head.
Check out the video highlights below:
For more UFC 330 results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
#first #head
2 days ago
This is the UFC 330 live blog for Jalin Turner vs. Kaue Fernandes, the main card lightweight bout Saturday at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.
After briefly retiring in 2025, Turner (15-9) returned to competition this past December with a fast first-round knockout of fan favorite Edson Barboza. It was the 11th career knockout for Turner, who has never won a fight via decision. At 6-foot-3, "The Tarantula" is one of the most imposing figures in the 155-pound division and he looks to string together consecutive victories for the first time since a five-fight win streak in 2022.
Fernandes (11-2) is one to watch at lightweight, having won three straight fights and five of his past six. He's collected a variety of kick finishes during this run, with a leg kick TKO over Harry Hardwick, and head kick and body kick knockouts that closed out his time with Legacy Fighting Alliance. Turner marks the biggest challenge of his young UFC career.
Check out the UFC 330 live blog for Jalin Turner vs. Kaue Fernandes below.
Preamble
#turner #fernandes #live #first
After briefly retiring in 2025, Turner (15-9) returned to competition this past December with a fast first-round knockout of fan favorite Edson Barboza. It was the 11th career knockout for Turner, who has never won a fight via decision. At 6-foot-3, "The Tarantula" is one of the most imposing figures in the 155-pound division and he looks to string together consecutive victories for the first time since a five-fight win streak in 2022.
Fernandes (11-2) is one to watch at lightweight, having won three straight fights and five of his past six. He's collected a variety of kick finishes during this run, with a leg kick TKO over Harry Hardwick, and head kick and body kick knockouts that closed out his time with Legacy Fighting Alliance. Turner marks the biggest challenge of his young UFC career.
Check out the UFC 330 live blog for Jalin Turner vs. Kaue Fernandes below.
Preamble
#turner #fernandes #live #first
2 days ago
Islam Makhachev (170) vs.Ian Garry (170) Mackenzie Dern(115) vs. Gillian Robertson (115) Kaue Fernandes (156) vs.Jalin Turner (156) MansurAbdul-Malik (186) vs. Dustin Stoltzfus (185) Edson Barboza (156)vs. Esteban Ribovics (156) Joel Alvarez (171) vs.Chidi Njokuani (171) Charles Johnson(129.5) vs. Eduardo Henrique (129.5) Donte Johnson (184.5)vs. Eric McConico (186) Tresean Gore (186) vs.Vicente Luque (186) Lucas Fernando (205)vs. Rafael Tobias (204) Ramiz Brahimaj (170) vs.Neil Magny (171) Myktybek Orolbai(170.5) vs. Jeremiah Wells (171) Sherdog's live UFC330 "Makhachev vs. Garry" coverage will begin Saturday at 5:30p.m. ET.
Welterweights light the fuse for UFC 330 at Xfinity Mobile Arena inPhiladelphia, where Orolbai (16-2-1, 5-1 UFC) squares off withWells (13-4-1, 5-2 UFC) at 170 pounds. Blake Grice adjudicatesmatters. No glove touch in the opener. Wells whiffs on an overhandright. The heavily favored Orolbai stalks from the center andcounters an attempted high kick with a left hook. Wells unloadswith a multi-punch volley, catches Orolbai off-guard and presseshim into the fence. They separate. Lots of feints from Orolbai.Body kick from Wells. Orolbai catches it and procures a takedown,setting up in half guard. He works from top position, though Wellsrefuses to cooperate. Orolbai stands, maneuvers behind the Americanand briefly climbs to full mount. Wells escapes and clings to asingle-leg. Orolbai floats back to half guard, then sneaks behindhis opponent again. Wells somersaults but cannot break free andeats a series of left hands to the side of the head. Ninety secondsto go in the round. More ground-and-pound from Orolbai, who hasseized control after a shaky start. He frees his left hand andplasters Wells with another burst of left hands. Orolbai maintainscontrol and continues to build his lead, landing knees to thebuttocks. He lands another sweeping left as the roundconcludes.
Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Orolbai
Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Orolbai
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Orolbai
Back at it for the middle stanza. Slow start through 30 seconds.Orolbai throws a crescent kick, then resets. He steps into anoverhand right, backs off under return fire and throws anotheroverhand. Orolbai ducks in on a single-leg and secures a takedown.Wells gets to his feet but pays the price, eating several punches.Another takedown for Orolbai, who lands in half guard and frames akimura. He moves to side control, still clinging to the shoulderlock. Wells stays safe initially and forces his opponent to bail onthe submission. Orolbai lands knees to the body. Wells scrambles tohis feet and braces himself against the fence. Orolbai forces himto take a knee at the base of the cage and scores with knees to thebackside. Wells stands again. Orolbai sneaks behind him with onehook laced and drags the American to the mat. He sets his secondhook. Wells reverses into top position. Orolbai immediately gets tohis feet. They return
Welterweights light the fuse for UFC 330 at Xfinity Mobile Arena inPhiladelphia, where Orolbai (16-2-1, 5-1 UFC) squares off withWells (13-4-1, 5-2 UFC) at 170 pounds. Blake Grice adjudicatesmatters. No glove touch in the opener. Wells whiffs on an overhandright. The heavily favored Orolbai stalks from the center andcounters an attempted high kick with a left hook. Wells unloadswith a multi-punch volley, catches Orolbai off-guard and presseshim into the fence. They separate. Lots of feints from Orolbai.Body kick from Wells. Orolbai catches it and procures a takedown,setting up in half guard. He works from top position, though Wellsrefuses to cooperate. Orolbai stands, maneuvers behind the Americanand briefly climbs to full mount. Wells escapes and clings to asingle-leg. Orolbai floats back to half guard, then sneaks behindhis opponent again. Wells somersaults but cannot break free andeats a series of left hands to the side of the head. Ninety secondsto go in the round. More ground-and-pound from Orolbai, who hasseized control after a shaky start. He frees his left hand andplasters Wells with another burst of left hands. Orolbai maintainscontrol and continues to build his lead, landing knees to thebuttocks. He lands another sweeping left as the roundconcludes.
Sherdog Scores Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Orolbai
Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Orolbai
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Orolbai
Back at it for the middle stanza. Slow start through 30 seconds.Orolbai throws a crescent kick, then resets. He steps into anoverhand right, backs off under return fire and throws anotheroverhand. Orolbai ducks in on a single-leg and secures a takedown.Wells gets to his feet but pays the price, eating several punches.Another takedown for Orolbai, who lands in half guard and frames akimura. He moves to side control, still clinging to the shoulderlock. Wells stays safe initially and forces his opponent to bail onthe submission. Orolbai lands knees to the body. Wells scrambles tohis feet and braces himself against the fence. Orolbai forces himto take a knee at the base of the cage and scores with knees to thebackside. Wells stands again. Orolbai sneaks behind him with onehook laced and drags the American to the mat. He sets his secondhook. Wells reverses into top position. Orolbai immediately gets tohis feet. They return
3 days ago
Manchester United suffered a disappointing end to their pre-season campaign as Ruben Amorim's AC AC Milan came from behind twice to secure a 4-2 victory in Wroclaw.
Michael Carrick's side made a flying start, taking the lead inside two minutes. Bruno Fernandes delivered a corner into the box and Harry Maguire rose highest to head United in front.
The Italian side gradually found their rhythm and were rewarded before the break when Samuel Chukwueze finished from close range after United failed to deal with a dangerous move. Fernandes then had the opportunity to restore United's advantage from the penalty spot, but Lorenzo Torriani produced an excellent save.
United regained the lead shortly after half-time, with Patrick Dorgu finding the net. However, the advantage quickly disappeared as Alphadjo Cisse levelled for the Italian side.
Ruben Amorim's side then turned the match around in a decisive spell. Goncalo Ramos headed them in front after Chukwueze created another opening, before former Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek added a fourth just three minutes later.
#ruben #italian #chukwueze #lead
Michael Carrick's side made a flying start, taking the lead inside two minutes. Bruno Fernandes delivered a corner into the box and Harry Maguire rose highest to head United in front.
The Italian side gradually found their rhythm and were rewarded before the break when Samuel Chukwueze finished from close range after United failed to deal with a dangerous move. Fernandes then had the opportunity to restore United's advantage from the penalty spot, but Lorenzo Torriani produced an excellent save.
United regained the lead shortly after half-time, with Patrick Dorgu finding the net. However, the advantage quickly disappeared as Alphadjo Cisse levelled for the Italian side.
Ruben Amorim's side then turned the match around in a decisive spell. Goncalo Ramos headed them in front after Chukwueze created another opening, before former Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek added a fourth just three minutes later.
#ruben #italian #chukwueze #lead
3 days ago
Milan face Manchester United in a friendly in Poland, with Amorim set to test his side once again after this week's cuts.
Watch Manchester United-Milan on OneFootball! Click here to buy the match.
An important test for the Rossoneri, one week before the start of the Serie A season.
MANCHESTER UNITED (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Mazaraoui, Maguire, Heaven; Shaw; Tielemans, Andrey Santos; Amad, Bruno Fernandes, Dorgu; Cunha.
MILAN (3-4-2-1): Torriani; Terracciano, De Winter, Pavlovic; Chukwueze, Musah, Jashari, Estupinan; Loftus-Cheek, Cisse; Ramos
#Milan #united #onefootball #rossoneri
Watch Manchester United-Milan on OneFootball! Click here to buy the match.
An important test for the Rossoneri, one week before the start of the Serie A season.
MANCHESTER UNITED (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Mazaraoui, Maguire, Heaven; Shaw; Tielemans, Andrey Santos; Amad, Bruno Fernandes, Dorgu; Cunha.
MILAN (3-4-2-1): Torriani; Terracciano, De Winter, Pavlovic; Chukwueze, Musah, Jashari, Estupinan; Loftus-Cheek, Cisse; Ramos
#Milan #united #onefootball #rossoneri
6 days ago
Brentford are preparing a renewed move for West Ham United's El Hadji Malick Diouf, with a package worth close to £40 million being put together for the 21-year-old Senegal international. Journalist Graeme Bailey broke the news on X, reporting that the Bees are serious and intent on prising him away from East London this summer.
West Ham signed Diouf from Slavia Prague last year for somewhere in the region of £19–22 million. A £40 million offer would effectively double that outlay in barely twelve months. The Hammers are operating in the Championship after last season's relegation, which adds a dictating factor to every contract and transfer conversation at the London Stadium right now.
Diouf contributed five **** ists across 32 Premier League appearances in 2025/26, logging 2,711 minutes despite West Ham's drop. Zero goals, yes, but his underlying numbers told a different story. He averaged 3.62 crosses and 0.23 big chances created per 90 minutes, figures that placed him among the division's elite full-backs. He went to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Senegal and featured in three matches. Nuno Espírito Santo reportedly views him as a "polished diamond" for the club's Championship promotion push. That's not PR fluff; that's a technical **** sment.
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 25: El Hadji Malick Diouf of West Ham United warms up prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Everton at London Stadium on April 25, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Here's the thing: West Ham don't need this money. They've already banked a combined £140 million from selling Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes this summer. There's zero financial pressure forcing Nuno's hand. Diouf's Championship output would be absurd; a left-back with World Cup minutes and Premier League-level crossing accuracy playing in the second tier is a categorical mismatch in West Ham's favour.
#west
West Ham signed Diouf from Slavia Prague last year for somewhere in the region of £19–22 million. A £40 million offer would effectively double that outlay in barely twelve months. The Hammers are operating in the Championship after last season's relegation, which adds a dictating factor to every contract and transfer conversation at the London Stadium right now.
Diouf contributed five **** ists across 32 Premier League appearances in 2025/26, logging 2,711 minutes despite West Ham's drop. Zero goals, yes, but his underlying numbers told a different story. He averaged 3.62 crosses and 0.23 big chances created per 90 minutes, figures that placed him among the division's elite full-backs. He went to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Senegal and featured in three matches. Nuno Espírito Santo reportedly views him as a "polished diamond" for the club's Championship promotion push. That's not PR fluff; that's a technical **** sment.
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 25: El Hadji Malick Diouf of West Ham United warms up prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United and Everton at London Stadium on April 25, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Here's the thing: West Ham don't need this money. They've already banked a combined £140 million from selling Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes this summer. There's zero financial pressure forcing Nuno's hand. Diouf's Championship output would be absurd; a left-back with World Cup minutes and Premier League-level crossing accuracy playing in the second tier is a categorical mismatch in West Ham's favour.
#west
8 days ago
Tottenham are moving like a club that have stopped thinking small. According to TeamTalk, Spurs have held conversations over a possible summer move for Endrick, and while plenty still has to happen before this becomes concrete, the logic is obvious.
Roberto De Zerbi has already overseen an aggressive window. Tottenham have added Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi, Martin Dubravka, Jan Paul van Hecke, Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali, while smashing their transfer record twice. That tells you two things. First, the club are backing the new head coach properly. Second, they are not done.
De Zerbi has made it clear the squad build is incomplete, particularly in attack. Savinho is reportedly the priority out wide, Cody Gakpo remains on the radar and Pedro Neto is viewed as an alternative. Endrick, though, is a different discussion. He is not a standard market opportunity, he is one of those rare cases where elite potential becomes temporarily available because a super-club have too many moving parts at once.
Photo IMAGO
The key detail is the structure. Real Madrid are only prepared to authorise another straight loan. That usually puts some clubs off. Tottenham, apparently, are open to it, even without a buy option. Sensible enough. If you are convinced a player can shift the level of your forward line immediately, the absence of a long-term guarantee does not automatically kill the deal.
#TOTTENHAM #moving #becomes #according
Roberto De Zerbi has already overseen an aggressive window. Tottenham have added Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi, Martin Dubravka, Jan Paul van Hecke, Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali, while smashing their transfer record twice. That tells you two things. First, the club are backing the new head coach properly. Second, they are not done.
De Zerbi has made it clear the squad build is incomplete, particularly in attack. Savinho is reportedly the priority out wide, Cody Gakpo remains on the radar and Pedro Neto is viewed as an alternative. Endrick, though, is a different discussion. He is not a standard market opportunity, he is one of those rare cases where elite potential becomes temporarily available because a super-club have too many moving parts at once.
Photo IMAGO
The key detail is the structure. Real Madrid are only prepared to authorise another straight loan. That usually puts some clubs off. Tottenham, apparently, are open to it, even without a buy option. Sensible enough. If you are convinced a player can shift the level of your forward line immediately, the absence of a long-term guarantee does not automatically kill the deal.
#TOTTENHAM #moving #becomes #according
10 days ago
Manchester United and PSG meet in a pre-season friendly on Saturday at the Ullevi Stadium.
Manchester United arrive with promising pre-season form under Michael Carrick. After a narrow 1-0 loss to Wrexham in their opening friendly, the Red Devils responded emphatically. They thrashed Rosenborg 5-0 and then claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in Stockholm. Carrick's team have shown attacking fluency and are gaining momentum as several senior internationals return to the squad.
Carrick welcomes back several senior internationals following their World Cup breaks.
New signing Youri Tielemans is expected to make his first official appearance for United, while skipper Bruno Fernandes and full-backs Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui have travelled and could play.
Bryan Mbeumo is likely to lead the attack after scoring twice in the 2-1 win against Atletico. But the squad also has significant absences. Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez remain unavailable because of required post-World Cup rest.
#carrick #senior
Manchester United arrive with promising pre-season form under Michael Carrick. After a narrow 1-0 loss to Wrexham in their opening friendly, the Red Devils responded emphatically. They thrashed Rosenborg 5-0 and then claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in Stockholm. Carrick's team have shown attacking fluency and are gaining momentum as several senior internationals return to the squad.
Carrick welcomes back several senior internationals following their World Cup breaks.
New signing Youri Tielemans is expected to make his first official appearance for United, while skipper Bruno Fernandes and full-backs Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui have travelled and could play.
Bryan Mbeumo is likely to lead the attack after scoring twice in the 2-1 win against Atletico. But the squad also has significant absences. Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez remain unavailable because of required post-World Cup rest.
#carrick #senior
12 days ago
Manchester United officials are reportedly torn between Sander Berge and Tyler Adams, who have emerged as two realistic options.
At the start of the summer, the club's supporters were anticipating the arrivals of prominent top-class profiles as the management plotted a midfield revamp.
Instead, INEOS have opted for cost-efficient moves, refusing to enter bidding wars. Therefore, their top targets, Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, ended up joining Man City and Spurs for £116 million and £85 million respectively.
After missing out on their primary targets, United bought Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £48 million and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for £35 million, before slamming the brakes on their midfield reboot.
United have been linked with prominent profiles like Aurelien Tchouameni and Manu Kone, but they haven't made noticeable progress on either track.
#united #million
At the start of the summer, the club's supporters were anticipating the arrivals of prominent top-class profiles as the management plotted a midfield revamp.
Instead, INEOS have opted for cost-efficient moves, refusing to enter bidding wars. Therefore, their top targets, Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, ended up joining Man City and Spurs for £116 million and £85 million respectively.
After missing out on their primary targets, United bought Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £48 million and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa for £35 million, before slamming the brakes on their midfield reboot.
United have been linked with prominent profiles like Aurelien Tchouameni and Manu Kone, but they haven't made noticeable progress on either track.
#united #million
13 days ago
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has revealed how he convinced Mateus Fernandes and Paul van Hecke to join Spurs this summer. The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium club signed the Dutchman for £52 million, while the Portuguese midfielder signed for £85m from West Ham. De Zerbi reunited with Van Hecke having worked with him at Brighton & Hove Albion, and a message after the last game of the season ensured Spurs survived relegation got the job done.
"With Mateus Fernandes, I spoke with his parents," the Tottenham boss recently revealed.
"With JP, after the Everton game, I sent him a message: 'You wanted to push down Tottenham when you made the **** ist to Georginio Rutter. Now you have to join me – yes or yes, you have no choice.'
"After the game, in my office at Tottenham stadium, I sent a message to my daughter, and then to JP."
Spurs suffered a 2-2 draw against Brighton in De Zerbi's second game in charge, with a 95th-minute equaliser denying the North London club crucial three points. Van Hecke's **** ist was a huge blow for Tottenham that day, but a 1-0 victory over Everton on the final matchday of the campaign was enough to ensure safety. The Netherlands international will now be looking to help Spurs reach the next level next season after almost getting them relegated.
#TOTTENHAM
"With Mateus Fernandes, I spoke with his parents," the Tottenham boss recently revealed.
"With JP, after the Everton game, I sent him a message: 'You wanted to push down Tottenham when you made the **** ist to Georginio Rutter. Now you have to join me – yes or yes, you have no choice.'
"After the game, in my office at Tottenham stadium, I sent a message to my daughter, and then to JP."
Spurs suffered a 2-2 draw against Brighton in De Zerbi's second game in charge, with a 95th-minute equaliser denying the North London club crucial three points. Van Hecke's **** ist was a huge blow for Tottenham that day, but a 1-0 victory over Everton on the final matchday of the campaign was enough to ensure safety. The Netherlands international will now be looking to help Spurs reach the next level next season after almost getting them relegated.
#TOTTENHAM
13 days ago
Tottenham Hotspur are not pursuing a move for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao despite recent reports linking the Portugal international with a switch to North London, The Athletic reports.
Rumours gathered pace earlier in the summer after Tottenham made major investments to bolster their squad, including signing Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.
With manager Roberto De Zerbi preparing for his first full season in charge of Tottenham, many believed the club was searching for another high-profile attacking player.
Those reports were fuelled by claims that Tottenham had held informal talks with Leao's representatives before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The discussions were described as exploratory rather than formal negotiations, and they took place before Portugal's campaign ended in the round of 16 after a defeat to eventual champions Spain.
#TOTTENHAM #rafael #london #Athletic
Rumours gathered pace earlier in the summer after Tottenham made major investments to bolster their squad, including signing Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.
With manager Roberto De Zerbi preparing for his first full season in charge of Tottenham, many believed the club was searching for another high-profile attacking player.
Those reports were fuelled by claims that Tottenham had held informal talks with Leao's representatives before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The discussions were described as exploratory rather than formal negotiations, and they took place before Portugal's campaign ended in the round of 16 after a defeat to eventual champions Spain.
#TOTTENHAM #rafael #london #Athletic
17 days ago
Manchester United face Atletico Madrid at the Strawberry Arena in Stockholm on Saturday afternoon in their third pre-season fixture of the summer.
Michael Carrick has resisted the temptation to rotate heavily between friendlies, preferring to give first-team players sustained minutes as the new season approaches. Saturday's match against Atletico represents by far the sternest test of United's preparations and an important benchmark for where the squad stands heading into August.
A long list of World Cup participants remain unavailable. Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martínez, Kobbie Mainoo, Matheus Cunha, Noussair Mazraoui and Marcus Rashford are all on extended post-tournament breaks and have not yet returned to Carrington.
Youri Tielemans completed his first training session at the club this week after arriving from Aston Villa in a £35m deal — but has been left out of the travelling squad for Stockholm. His debut will come in the coming days. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens is also not in the squad.
Benjamin Sesko is a major doubt with a shin injury that the club are carefully monitoring. Manuel Ugarte and Matthijs de Ligt are both sidelined with their own injury concerns and unavailable for selection. Amad Diallo has returned from his World Cup commitments with Ivory Coast and could feature in the squad.
#atletico #World #returned #injury
Michael Carrick has resisted the temptation to rotate heavily between friendlies, preferring to give first-team players sustained minutes as the new season approaches. Saturday's match against Atletico represents by far the sternest test of United's preparations and an important benchmark for where the squad stands heading into August.
A long list of World Cup participants remain unavailable. Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martínez, Kobbie Mainoo, Matheus Cunha, Noussair Mazraoui and Marcus Rashford are all on extended post-tournament breaks and have not yet returned to Carrington.
Youri Tielemans completed his first training session at the club this week after arriving from Aston Villa in a £35m deal — but has been left out of the travelling squad for Stockholm. His debut will come in the coming days. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens is also not in the squad.
Benjamin Sesko is a major doubt with a shin injury that the club are carefully monitoring. Manuel Ugarte and Matthijs de Ligt are both sidelined with their own injury concerns and unavailable for selection. Amad Diallo has returned from his World Cup commitments with Ivory Coast and could feature in the squad.
#atletico #World #returned #injury
19 days ago
Roberto De Zerbi says he is hopeful of another "bomba" signing at Spurs this summer.
The club have already been active in the transfer market, splashing the cash to bring in Sandro Tonali, Jan Paul van Hecke and Mateus Fernandes, along with the free transfer signings of Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi.
But the Tottenham boss says he is only "60% done" in the transfer market.
"In the transfer market when I want one player I become like a shark," De Zerbi joked. "No chance to say no.
"The transfer market, it's not finished for sure, but we completed 60 per cent of our project in the transfer market. Now we have another bomba."
#transfer
The club have already been active in the transfer market, splashing the cash to bring in Sandro Tonali, Jan Paul van Hecke and Mateus Fernandes, along with the free transfer signings of Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi.
But the Tottenham boss says he is only "60% done" in the transfer market.
"In the transfer market when I want one player I become like a shark," De Zerbi joked. "No chance to say no.
"The transfer market, it's not finished for sure, but we completed 60 per cent of our project in the transfer market. Now we have another bomba."
#transfer
20 days ago
Roberto De Zerbi has told Lucas Bergvall he must show the "right spirit" if he wants to stay at Tottenham amid speculation linking the midfielder with a move away from the club.
The uncertainty comes after Bergvall made his first pre-season start in Spurs' 1-1 draw with Sydney FC on Wednesday.
The 20-year-old endured a challenging 2025-26 campaign, making only 17 starts and frequently playing out of his preferred position. This summer has seen further competition arrive in the centre of midfield with the big-money signings of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.
It is understood that bids from Nottingham Forest and Newcastle for Bergvall this month have been rejected. However, the midfielder could still depart Tottenham before the transfer window closes, driven by his desire for regular first-team football in the upcoming season.
Despite De Zerbi speaking positively about the Swedish international staying at Spurs after the Sydney draw, an element of the unknown persists regarding immediate plans for Bergvall.
#TOTTENHAM
The uncertainty comes after Bergvall made his first pre-season start in Spurs' 1-1 draw with Sydney FC on Wednesday.
The 20-year-old endured a challenging 2025-26 campaign, making only 17 starts and frequently playing out of his preferred position. This summer has seen further competition arrive in the centre of midfield with the big-money signings of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.
It is understood that bids from Nottingham Forest and Newcastle for Bergvall this month have been rejected. However, the midfielder could still depart Tottenham before the transfer window closes, driven by his desire for regular first-team football in the upcoming season.
Despite De Zerbi speaking positively about the Swedish international staying at Spurs after the Sydney draw, an element of the unknown persists regarding immediate plans for Bergvall.
#TOTTENHAM
20 days ago
West Ham United defender Jean-Clair Todibo is attracting transfer interest from Napoli, according to respected transfer journalist Gianluca DiMarzio.
The Hammers signed the Frenchman two years ago for big money, but he has struggled to live up to expectations in England.
West Ham do not necessarily need the funds following the big-money sales of Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes.
However, Todibo's inconsistent performances, and perhaps desire to play in a more prominent league, could push him out of the London Stadium.
The Italian club is searching for replacements for the injured Alessandro Buongiorno. They are eyeing several options, including Tiago Gabriel, Benoit Badiashile, and Federico Gatti.
#transfer #napoli
The Hammers signed the Frenchman two years ago for big money, but he has struggled to live up to expectations in England.
West Ham do not necessarily need the funds following the big-money sales of Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes.
However, Todibo's inconsistent performances, and perhaps desire to play in a more prominent league, could push him out of the London Stadium.
The Italian club is searching for replacements for the injured Alessandro Buongiorno. They are eyeing several options, including Tiago Gabriel, Benoit Badiashile, and Federico Gatti.
#transfer #napoli
26 days ago
As Real Madrid continue their summer rebuild under the leadership of new coach Jose Mourinho, many players are facing an uncertain future at the club.
Among those who are tipped to leave the club is Fran Gonzalez, Real Madrid’s third-choice goalkeeper who may leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer in favour of a loan deal elsewhere.
Real Madrid themselves want Gonzalez to play regularly at the highest level, which is why they had been looking for the ideal loan destination for the goalkeeper.
According to journalist Ben Fernandes Santos, Real Madrid have received multiple offers for Gonzalez this summer.
Fran Gonzalez’s future at Real Madrid remains uncertain. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
#uncertain
Among those who are tipped to leave the club is Fran Gonzalez, Real Madrid’s third-choice goalkeeper who may leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer in favour of a loan deal elsewhere.
Real Madrid themselves want Gonzalez to play regularly at the highest level, which is why they had been looking for the ideal loan destination for the goalkeeper.
According to journalist Ben Fernandes Santos, Real Madrid have received multiple offers for Gonzalez this summer.
Fran Gonzalez’s future at Real Madrid remains uncertain. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
#uncertain
26 days ago
Liverpool are confident of signing Bradley Barcola, Alex Scott favours a move to ***** nal, Bruno Fernandes is ready to commit his future to Manchester United.
Liverpool are confident they can beat ***** nal and Bayern Munich to the signature of Paris St-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, after the 23-year-old impressed with four goal contributions at the World Cup with France this summer. (Sun)
Arsenal are edging the battle with Manchester United for sought-after Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, 22 - but the England Under-21 international has concerns around how much game time he would get at the Emirates. (Mirror)
Scott is keen on a move to Chelsea after the Cherries rejected a £64m bid from the Blues. (The Standard)
Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes, 31, has decided to commit his future to Manchester United, with talks around a new deal ongoing. (Express)
#arsenal #united #Liverpool #barcola
Liverpool are confident they can beat ***** nal and Bayern Munich to the signature of Paris St-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, after the 23-year-old impressed with four goal contributions at the World Cup with France this summer. (Sun)
Arsenal are edging the battle with Manchester United for sought-after Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, 22 - but the England Under-21 international has concerns around how much game time he would get at the Emirates. (Mirror)
Scott is keen on a move to Chelsea after the Cherries rejected a £64m bid from the Blues. (The Standard)
Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes, 31, has decided to commit his future to Manchester United, with talks around a new deal ongoing. (Express)
#arsenal #united #Liverpool #barcola
26 days ago
Tottenham Hotspur began their preseason campaign with a win in a behind-closed-doors friendly against League One side MK Dons at the Tottenham Hotspur training ground.
With several players missing due to the recently completed World Cup, a mix of youth and experience was on display as Roberto De Zerbi heavily rotated his side each half. New signings Mateus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali, and Martin Dubravka made their debuts, and it was the former who was the difference, with his stunning strike the lone goal in a scrappy encounter.
Here's my top ten talking points from Spurs' first outing under Thomas Frank.
Spurs' first friendly was as notable for who was missing as much as who was named. With the World Cup only recently wrapping up in the Americas, it was obviously much too soon to see the likes of Djed Spence, Pedro Porro, Marcos Senesi, or Cristian Romero; but other players involved in the World Cup also weren't involved. Jan Paul van Hecke, Micky van de Ven, Kevin Danso, Rodrigo Bentancur, Lucas Bergvall, Pape Sarr, and Andy Robertson were all missing due to enforced leave following their international duties.
This meant limited learnings as to how the squad will shape up when the season kicked off, and also raises questions as to who will be available for the tour to Australia and New Zealand. An additional point of concern was the absence of James Maddison, who had no such international commitments and who made his return from an ACL injury towards the end of last season. The fact he did not see the pitch is concerning given his injury history. It's a similar situation as well for promising young defender Jun'ai Byfield, also missing the end of the season with injury and not sighted today.
#World #friendly
With several players missing due to the recently completed World Cup, a mix of youth and experience was on display as Roberto De Zerbi heavily rotated his side each half. New signings Mateus Fernandes, Sandro Tonali, and Martin Dubravka made their debuts, and it was the former who was the difference, with his stunning strike the lone goal in a scrappy encounter.
Here's my top ten talking points from Spurs' first outing under Thomas Frank.
Spurs' first friendly was as notable for who was missing as much as who was named. With the World Cup only recently wrapping up in the Americas, it was obviously much too soon to see the likes of Djed Spence, Pedro Porro, Marcos Senesi, or Cristian Romero; but other players involved in the World Cup also weren't involved. Jan Paul van Hecke, Micky van de Ven, Kevin Danso, Rodrigo Bentancur, Lucas Bergvall, Pape Sarr, and Andy Robertson were all missing due to enforced leave following their international duties.
This meant limited learnings as to how the squad will shape up when the season kicked off, and also raises questions as to who will be available for the tour to Australia and New Zealand. An additional point of concern was the absence of James Maddison, who had no such international commitments and who made his return from an ACL injury towards the end of last season. The fact he did not see the pitch is concerning given his injury history. It's a similar situation as well for promising young defender Jun'ai Byfield, also missing the end of the season with injury and not sighted today.
#World #friendly
1 month ago
Michael Carrick had instructed Manchester United to go out and sign at least three midfielders, as the head coach was keen on revamping the team’s engine room.
Two have arrived already, with Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans signed for a combined fee of around £85 million.
Carrick will need one more midfield addition, but the priority for INEOS is to now focus on player sales. Once that is done, the midfield search is expected to resume.
The Red Devils have already missed out on Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, and Mateus Fernandes, while also cancelling the agreement for Ederson due to a failed medical.
INEOS continue to place extra emphasis on recruiting from within the Premier League, and Alex Scott has emerged as a top target.
Two have arrived already, with Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans signed for a combined fee of around £85 million.
Carrick will need one more midfield addition, but the priority for INEOS is to now focus on player sales. Once that is done, the midfield search is expected to resume.
The Red Devils have already missed out on Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, and Mateus Fernandes, while also cancelling the agreement for Ederson due to a failed medical.
INEOS continue to place extra emphasis on recruiting from within the Premier League, and Alex Scott has emerged as a top target.
1 month ago
Manchester United "have other areas to strengthen" this transfer window as they continue their pursuit of midfield recruits, says The Devils' Advocate podcast co-host Gaz Drinkwater.
Manchester City secured United's top target Elliot Anderson at the start of the window, they were unwilling to match Tottenham's bid for West Ham's Mateus Fernandes and, most recently, their move for Atalanta's Ederson collapsed after his medical despite agreeing a deal for the Brazilian at the beginning of June.
Now the club have signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea and are closing in on a deal for Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans, but Drinkwater believes United need to be putting their focus elsewhere.
"Left-back is a big one. Luke Shaw did very well last season and if he has the same season again then we don't need a left-back - but he's not going to, is he? And I'm not sure about his back-up," he said on the latest episode of the BBC Radio Manchester podcast.
"We don't actually have a left-winger unless Marcus Rashford is staying so maybe we keep Rashford, even though he's on a lot of money.
Manchester City secured United's top target Elliot Anderson at the start of the window, they were unwilling to match Tottenham's bid for West Ham's Mateus Fernandes and, most recently, their move for Atalanta's Ederson collapsed after his medical despite agreeing a deal for the Brazilian at the beginning of June.
Now the club have signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea and are closing in on a deal for Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans, but Drinkwater believes United need to be putting their focus elsewhere.
"Left-back is a big one. Luke Shaw did very well last season and if he has the same season again then we don't need a left-back - but he's not going to, is he? And I'm not sure about his back-up," he said on the latest episode of the BBC Radio Manchester podcast.
"We don't actually have a left-winger unless Marcus Rashford is staying so maybe we keep Rashford, even though he's on a lot of money.
1 month ago
Manchester United have all but completed a deal for Chelsea's Antony Santos after news of a move broke rapidly last week.
Nonetheless, their transfer market activity has been a frustrating experience so far.
After missing out on numerous targets such as French star Aurelien Tchouameni, Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, Manchester United have had to move down their list.
The club is said to be keen on players like Joao Gomes, Alex Scott, Ayyoub Bouaddi and Manu Kone.
Manchester United had believed they had wrapped up a deal for the Brazilian in June when they agreed a fee with Atalanta before the World Cup.
Nonetheless, their transfer market activity has been a frustrating experience so far.
After missing out on numerous targets such as French star Aurelien Tchouameni, Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, Manchester United have had to move down their list.
The club is said to be keen on players like Joao Gomes, Alex Scott, Ayyoub Bouaddi and Manu Kone.
Manchester United had believed they had wrapped up a deal for the Brazilian in June when they agreed a fee with Atalanta before the World Cup.
1 month ago
Manchester United have endured a difficult summer in their efforts to complete a midfield rebuild.
The Red Devils did agree a deal for Atalanta's Ederson, but his move appears to be off due to concerns the club had over his medical results.
United have also missed out on several of their targets, as Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes have all joined other clubs. They also do not appear to be in the running for Bruno Guimarães, who seems to have his heart set on a move to ******* nal this summer.
The Red Devils have agreed a deal with Chelsea for Andrey Santos, but after Ederson's collapsed move, the club still needs two more midfield signings.
Writing for the Spanish newspaper AS, journalist Eduardo Burgos has identified three players United are targeting for their midfield rebuild.
The Red Devils did agree a deal for Atalanta's Ederson, but his move appears to be off due to concerns the club had over his medical results.
United have also missed out on several of their targets, as Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes have all joined other clubs. They also do not appear to be in the running for Bruno Guimarães, who seems to have his heart set on a move to ******* nal this summer.
The Red Devils have agreed a deal with Chelsea for Andrey Santos, but after Ederson's collapsed move, the club still needs two more midfield signings.
Writing for the Spanish newspaper AS, journalist Eduardo Burgos has identified three players United are targeting for their midfield rebuild.
