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Inside the curse of 2019 Ajax world-beaters who stunned Real Madrid

THEY were the best Ajax team since Louis van Gaal's mid 90s outfit that landed a Champions League title.That team featured the de Boer twins Ronald and Frank, Patrick Kluivert, Marc Overmars, Clarence Seedorf and Edgar Davids at the heart of midfield and more. THEY were the best Ajax team since Louis van Gaal's mid 90s outfit that landed a Champions League title. That team featured the de Boer twins Ronald and Frank, Patrick Kluivert, Marc Overmars, Clarence Seedorf and Edgar Davids at the heart of midfield and more. But the spirit of those incredible talents seemed to resonate through the likes of Frenkie de Jong, Matthijs de Ligt, Donny van de Beek, Hakimn Ziyech, and Andre Onana. Led by up-and-coming manager Erik ten Hag, they played some of the best football in Europe during the 2018-19 season. Domestically, they went double Dutch - winning both the league and cup. While in the Champions League, they earned plenty of admirers for destroying Real Madrid 4-1 at the Bernabeu in the Round of 16 and beating Juventus in Turin in the quarter-finals. Their journey ended in the semis, after losing on away goals to Tottenham. As is almost always the case, Europe's top dogs cherry-picked Ajax's best talent - paying huge fees. De Jong went to Barcelona for £65million, de Ligt to Juventus for £75million, and manager ten Hag was hired to bring his flair to an ailing Man Utd team. However, as that team disbanded the worst was to come for those promising youngsters, and their boss. So, where did all go wrong? The kids Forget the old saying, 'You won't win anything with kids.' This Ajax team did, and they swept most teams before them. Steadied by Daley Blind at the back, who struggled in the Premier League with Man Utd, they had a youthful vibrance about them. De Ligt, the recipient of the 2018 Golden Boy trophy given to the best player under 21, was the first-ever defender to ever win the award. De Jong had plenty of swagger, controlling possession in the midfield and driving the tempo of the side. Astonishing stats from December to February of that campaign showed that De Jong had completed 354 of his 390 passes, while making 53 ball recoveries. That prompted former Dutch international Rafael van der Vaart to call De Jong the best player in Europe with the ball at his feet. Cameroon goalie Onana - who came through the Ajax academy - was also excelling himself between the sticks as a carbon copy of Edwin van der Sar with his handling and distribution praised. In Donny van der Beek they had a playmaker who starred in the No10 role and was drawing comparisons with Dennis Bergkamp. Moroccan Hakim Ziyech also provided a threat on the wing, in what was a breakthrough season that saw him score 22 goals in all competitions. Alongside Dusan Tadic, goals were flying in everywhere - testament to that was the 119 goals in 34 league games, and the four that shook the Bernabeu in that famous Champions League massacre. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/93/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmchBdeAPR0jAAHpwiLzXdM565.jpg The manager They were led by the emerging ten Hag, who grew up on a diet of a Johan Cruyff's Ajax and Barcelona teams and studied Pep Guardiola, who he worked alongside at Bayern Munich. He once revealing of his Spanish mentor: "Every day I get to work with him, I look forward to it. He inspires me." On the wall of his modest office at the club's De Toekomst training ground ten Hag hung photos of past greats Cruyff, van Gaal, and Rinus Michels. An ode to history that would act as a basis for his own thoughts. The club would play a free-flowing 4-2-3-1 formation - it wasn't total football but it was an organised chaos. His approach to training was player mentality focused. Ten Hag would note down how each individual responds to minor errors, losing the ball or committing a foul. Then, he would pick a team based on the mentality of his team and the opponent they were facing. It was the manager who decided to address the balance of youth and experience by bringing in Blind and Tadic. A masterstroke, if ever there was one. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/64/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcgFKqAWueCAAOEsTWstjY433.jpg What happened next In 2019, that Ajax team mostly disbanded. A combination of lofty ambitions, and Europe's top clubs descending upon the Dutch giants like vultures to a dead carcass, saw its two best youngsters de Ligt and de Jong depart for pastures new. De Ligt would move to Juventus for £75million, with legendary Marcelo Lippi lauding his ability and comparing him to Franco Baresi, Paolo Maldini, and Alessandro Nesta. He would struggle to adapt to Italian football, and came under fire for lapses of concentration and occasional errors. Playing a zonal marking system under Maurizio Sarri also didn't suit his attribute of being a man-marker. Three seasons later, he was sold to Bayern Munich for another huge fee - around £56million. Again, he struggled. Injuries didn't help, as well as a strained relationship with Thomas Tuchel who reportedly didn't like the way he played the ball out of defence slowly. Two years later, the jury is out whether the £42.7million Man Utd have spent on him will help rediscover his and his club's fortunes. It hasn't been perfect so far. De Jong's transfer to Barcelona came at a time when the club were heading for financial ruin. In fits and spurts he's shown his qualities, but not in the way the club's fans have hoped. While it may be unfair to call him a flop, the club have certainly seen him as surplus to requirements in the past. To ease their economic concerns, de Jong was offered to Man Utd in 2022. The deal reportedly fell through due to personal terms, but his situation has seemingly changed under new manager Hansi Flick and he is happier. Van de Beek suffered the biggest career collapse of them all, but is credibly rebuilding himself at Girona. He was bombed out of Old Trafford in 2024 for £500,000 to the Spanish club, after unsuccessful loans at Everton and Eintracht Frankfurt. United's £40million investment went down the pan there, with the midfielder scoring just twice in 62 games. Even ten Hag couldn't get a tune out of him. Ziyech, who left in 2020 for Chelsea for £37million, also couldn't rediscover his goalscoring touch that made him so feared in Amsterdam. His bad luck continued after the Blues submitted the wrong documents on transfer deadline day in 2023, blocking a loan deal to PSG. A move to Al Nassr to link up with Cristiano Ronaldo collapsed, when the Saudi Arabian giants withdrew their contract offer after a reported failed medical, which he later denied. He's now with Galatasaray, after finally leaving in the summer but seems to be a shadow of the player he once was. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/93/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWchBdaACqj0AAGl2aedhxs421.jpg https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/93/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmchBdWAK_SNAAEU8ZFDTd4800.jpg Following a nine-month ban from the game for a doping scandal, Onana restored faith in his abilities by starring at Inter Milan and guiding them to the 2023 Champions League final. United paid £47.2million for him, and although he struggled last season, there are signs of improvement. As for ten Hag, he has now been pushed from the Man Utd hot seat - sacked after two seasons that brought a League Cup and FA Cup, but just an eighth-placed finish in the Premier League last season and a worst-ever start to this term. You better believe it, the curse of Ajax's 2019 world beaters is very real.

Injury-hit Juventus welcome back Koopmeiners for Parma test

Thiago Motta confirmed midfielder Teun Koopmeiners will be available for Juventus' upcoming Serie A clash with Parma on Wednesday.Koopmeiners, who joined Juventus from Atalanta in the summer, has missed the last three matches after sustaining a rib fracture in a 1-1 draw with Cagliari earlier this month. Thiago Motta confirmed midfielder Teun Koopmeiners will be available for Juventus' upcoming Serie A clash with Parma on Wednesday. Koopmeiners, who joined Juventus from Atalanta in the summer, has missed the last three matches after sustaining a rib fracture in a 1-1 draw with Cagliari earlier this month. The Dutch international had made seven appearances in all competitions for his new club before his injury, notching one assist in a win against Genoa. Koopmeiners' return to action is a timely boost for Motta, though he revealed Juventus are still without injured trio Gleison Bremer, Arek Milik, and Douglas Luiz. "We won't have Gleison, Douglas, Nico or Arek but we will recover Koop. We'll see if he can start from the first minute or be with us during the game," Motta told reporters. Juventus come into the game against Parma on the back of an enthralling 4-4 draw with Inter in the Derby d'Italia over the weekend. Kenan Yildiz scored a second-half brace to seal a share of the spoils at the San Siro, but the Bianconeri remain five points behind leaders Napoli in Serie A. Motta was happy with his side's previous showing, but bemoaned their defensive lapses, having conceded two penalties against Inter that were converted by Piotr Zielinski. "It was a good performance at San Siro but we could have won," Motta said. "But that's now in the past, everything else is just people's opinions and doesn't count much at this moment in time," Motta said. "Something to improve, for sure is penalties. We must always finish with 11 men and not cause penalties. I always say, the next match is the most important. "I respect everyone's opinions, mine as a coach is that we have to learn to manage the moments when others do better than us." Juventus will be confident of maintaining Motta's unbeaten league start against Parma, who are without a win in their last seven Serie A matches. The hosts have done historically well against the Crociati, with Juventus unbeaten in 13 of their last 14 matches against Parma in Serie A (W10 D3). They have also won eight of the last nine matches played on a Wednesday in the Italian top-flight (L1), scoring 20 goals in the period (2.2 on average per match). Parma, meanwhile, have not won any of their last 18 Serie A away games (D8 L10) and have only once recorded a longer away run without a win in the competition, between May 2007 and September 2009 (23).

Ruud van Nistelrooy Affirms Intent to Remain at Manchester United Despite Upcoming Change

Van Nistelrooy confirms his commitment to continue in his assistant manager position at Manchester United, even as Ruben Amorim is tipped to take over as the new manager following Erik ten Hag's departure. Ruud van Nistelrooy has affirmed his intent to resume his role as assistant manager at Manchester United after serving as the interim manager. Following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag, Van Nistelrooy took the helm temporarily, with Ruben Amorim from Sporting Lisbon anticipated to be named the permanent manager. Amorim's expected arrival, with his own team, raises questions about Van Nistelrooy's future at Old Trafford. However, Van Nistelrooy is adamant about his plans to stay, highlighting his existing two-year contract. ‘My role as an interim is a temporary one – that was made clear to me, and I am content with it,’ he stated. ‘I returned to assist the club for a significant reason: my role as an assistant is to aid the club's progress, and I remain highly motivated to do so, whether as an assistant or in my current interim capacity. After this, I will revert to my assistant role for this and next season. I am eager to continue my contributions here at Manchester United.’ ‘The future will unfold as it may, but I am bound by my contract and my aspiration to support the club. I can share my perspective, and once the new manager is officially on board and we have discussions, we will see how things evolve.’ ‘I am here to offer my assistance and do everything within my power. The club is facing challenges and is not in the position we desire. All eyes are on Manchester United, but it is up to us on the ground to give our best efforts, supported by our fans, as we go through this process.’ When inquired about discussions with Amorim regarding his interim role, Van Nistelrooy responded succinctly: ‘Has he been officially announced yet? We are unaware. Again, we will have to wait and see what the future holds.’

Ruben Amorim: Sporting boss could be in position at Utd in time to face Chelsea

Man Utd are in advanced talks with Sporting head coach Ruben Amorim and he could be in charge for Sunday's Premier League clash with Chelsea, live on Sky Sports.United approached Sporting over appointing Amorim as their new boss and talks are thought to be advancing over making the 39-year-old Erik ten Hag's successor after the Dutchman was sacked on Monday morning. Man Utd are in advanced talks with Sporting head coach Ruben Amorim and he could be in charge for Sunday's Premier League clash with Chelsea, live on Sky Sports. United approached Sporting over appointing Amorim as their new boss and talks are thought to be advancing over making the 39-year-old Erik ten Hag's successor after the Dutchman was sacked on Monday morning. Amorim was part of the club's shortlist of options as revealed bySky Sports Newson Monday, and on Tuesday Sporting informed the Portuguese stock exchange that Man United were prepared to pay the £8.3m release clause. A deal has not been done yet and sources insist an announcement on United's new permanent manager is not imminent, but if a compensation package can be agreed Amorim could be in the dugout at Old Trafford for Sunday's home game with Chelsea, live onSky Sports. Despite batting away the question of whether he is in the frame to get the Old Trafford job during a press conference after Ten Hag's sacking, it is understood Amorim would relish the challenge of coaching United. When asked about his future in the wake of Ten Hag's sacking, Amorim said at a pre-match press conference on Monday: "I was expecting that question and obviously I am not going to talk about my future. "I am not going to speak about my future because no matter what I say I'd have to always talk about it. "Since the first day, I said it was not worthy to ask about it and I am not going to make any comments about my future." He added: "I am very proud of being Sporting head coach." In recent weeks he has been suggested as a future Manchester City manager with Sporting's Hugo Viana, a close friend, due to move to the blue half of Manchester as the club's new director of football next season. A former Benfica and Portugal midfielder, Amorim retired as a player in 2017 and just two years later he took up his first managerial job at Braga. He then joined Sporting in March 2020 where he has established himself as one of Europe's most sought-after young coaches, twice guiding the club to the league title. He has also won the Taca da Liga - the Portuguese League Cup - on three occasions, twice with Sporting and once with Braga. 'Amorim expected to become the next Man Utd manager' Sky Sports News Chief Reporter Kaveh Solhekol: "Multiple sources in Portugal are telling us they expect Ruben Amorim to become the next Man Utd manager. For that to happen, United need to sort out a compensation package with Sporting. "That will not be complicated as in his Sporting contract, it says if United want him, they will have to pay €10m (£8.3m) compensation. He has different release clauses in his contract for different clubs, so if he was to leave for a Portuguese team, it would cost €30m (£24.9m), but if he was to leave for a club abroad, it would be €20m (£16.6m). But for the biggest clubs, the 'killer clubs' as they are called in Portugal, a United is one, it is €10m (£8.3m). "So as long as he tells Sporting he wants to join United, there is a very good chance he will be their next manager." Why Man Utd are in talks with Amorim Sky Sports News chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol: "Amorim was linked with the West Ham job, the Liverpool job and there is even talk of him being a Manchester City manager one day. "He is one of the most coveted young coaches in Europe at the moment. It is not just United who are interested. "One of the stumbling blocks to this deal being done is the fact that he's got this release clause in his contract. "Sporting had to pay a big release clause to get him in the first place and United will have to pay €10m (£8.3m) to get him. "United have to comply with PSR rules and they have to also pay off Erik ten Hag so there's talk they will have to pay him the region of £15m. "So United would need to spend not only to sack Ten Hag but also to bring in Amorim. "His brand of football is attractive but some detractors would say what he has achieved has been over a very short period of time in Portuguese football. "With all due respect, the level of the Portuguese league is not at the same level as others in Europe. But it looks like Amorim could be the next big Portuguese manager." 'Amorim will change tactics depending on the opposition' Portuguese football journalist Pedro Sepulveda: "Amorim always plays with three centre-backs, so Man Utd will have to change their tactics from under Ten Hag. "It is offensive football, a team that scores many, many goals and they hardly concede any, so he has a concrete idea how to play. "However, we have seen many times that if Amorim wants to change formation due to the opponent he is facing, that is not a problem too. "More importantly, he is a coach that studies his opponents a lot and the Premier League is a really good league for Amorim. "Amorim always says he does not have Twitter or Instagram, he says he never knows what is written in the press. "But he is a coach whose communication is very, very good, if you look at his press conferences, he always says the right things. "In my opinion, he is a coach who is above the others in terms of communication and behaviour during and after the match, which is very important these days. "Of course, he will have the pressure of being Man Utd coach, but there are some similarities with here, like Man Utd are not used to winning things. "So I really think he could make United one of the favourites for next season's Premier League." Why Sporting coach Amorim could be right for Man Utd Sky Sports' Adam Bate: It has long been inevitable that Ruben Amorim would take one of Europe's biggest jobs. Winning the title with Sporting in 2021 at the age of 36 all but guaranteed that. Repeating the feat last season only underlined his ability as a coach. Sporting recognised that this was a special talent very early, famously paying a huge release clause after his spectacular start at Braga. They bet on his tactical mind, his fierce commitment as a player, but more than anything on the power of his personality. In conversation with a series of Portuguese coaches, some of whom have pitted their wits against Amorim in his native country, we will explore his rise, what it is that makes him so impressive as a coach, and, crucially, whether this can be translated into his next job.

Postecoglou wonders if ETH have been sacked despite two trophies as Spurs boss

Ange Postecoglou has questioned whether Erik ten Hag would have been sacked if he was at Tottenham rather than Manchester United.Ten Hag was sent packing on Monday after nearly two-and-a-half years at the club, and is set to be replaced by Ruben Amorim with United willing to play the Portuguese's release clause. Ange Postecoglou has questioned whether Erik ten Hag would have been sacked if he was at Tottenham rather than Manchester United. Ten Hag was sent packing on Monday after nearly two-and-a-half years at the club, and is set to be replaced by Ruben Amorim with United willing to play the Portuguese's release clause. He will have the task of turning around the Red Devils' fortunes when he takes over, with the club 14th in the Premier League and having not won in Europe for over a year. Postecoglou, meanwhile, speaking before his side's Carabao Cup game against Manchester City this week, compared the Dutchman's efforts at United to his own at Tottenham. He gave his verdict on his dismissal, pointing to the fact that he managed to win two trophies in two years. 'Nah, not really shocked,' Postecoglou, whose Spurs side beat United less than a month ago, said. 'Disappointing as it was, it was almost inevitable with the scrutiny he had. 'If you look at Erik, he was there for two and a bit years. He won a trophy in each year, they finished third in his first year. If he was here with that record would he have lost his job? I don't know. 'Would he be under the same scrutiny? I don't know, because everyone tells me all I have to do is win a trophy, but I have got a feeling it would be the same because, just the nature of the world today.' Tottenham haven't won a trophy since 2008 when they lifted the League Cup, with supporters desperate for silverware again. Ten Hag, meanwhile, won the League Cup in 2023 and FA Cup in 2024. Postecoglou is determined to deliver that, but is keen not to underestimate the importance of finding the balance between silverware and long-term success. He also wished the best for Ten Hag, who is now out of work having left his role at Old Trafford. 'As a manager you have to hit a sweet spot where you get success, you play football everyone likes, you get every signing right,' he continued. 'In that moment you seem to get some sort of validation. 'Anything other than that, it seems to be for some clubs they want trophies not football, others want football. It is a difficult task. 'But what you have seen in the past, I'm sure Erik will bounce back from that because he is a good manager. You have seen it with other managers. I'm sure his career will continue to go on strongly.'

Man Utd's 'expressed interest' in Amorim confirmed by Sporting

Sporting CP confirmed they have received an approach from Manchester United for their manager, Ruben Amorim.The reigning Primeira Liga champions also said the Old Trafford club have "expressed interest" in paying the €10million (£8.3m) release clause in their boss' contract. Sporting CP confirmed they have received an approach from Manchester United for their manager, Ruben Amorim. The reigning Primeira Liga champions also said the Old Trafford club have "expressed interest" in paying the €10million (£8.3m) release clause in their boss' contract. United are in the hunt for a new manager after parting ways with Erik ten Hag on Monday, with the club 14th in the Premier League after nine games this season. Ruud van Nistelrooy has taken charge as interim head coach, though Sporting confirmed in a statement to Portugal's financial regulator, the CMVM, that interest had been received. "Manchester United have expressed their interest in recruiting coach Ruben Amorim and have said they are ready to pay the 10 million euro release clause," it read. Amorim led Sporting to their first league title in 19 years in 2021, and repeated the achievement with the Lisbon club last season. He has overseen 156 games in charge of Sporting in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, recording 120 wins. Amorim's 76.92% win ratio in the competition is the best of any Sporting coach on record to have overseen more than two matches in the Primera Liga. So far this season, his side has won all nine of their league games, and have taken seven points from their first three Champions League matches. Should the 39-year-old be appointed, he would be the seventh Portuguese boss to manage in the Premier League after Jose Mourinho, Marco Silva, Nuno Espirito Santo, Andre Villas-Boas, Bruno Lage and Carlos Carvalhal. Sporting are in action on Tuesday against Nacional in the Portuguese League Cup, which could prove to be Amorim's final game at the helm.

Is Neymar Bound for Santos in the Upcoming Summer Transfer Window?

Discussions are underway that could see Neymar make a sensational return to his first professional club, Santos. Osvaldo Nico, a key member of the club's Board of Directors, has hinted at the possibility of the Brazilian superstar coming back to his roots next year. The prospect of Neymar's homecoming is becoming increasingly tangible, moving from a distant dream to a potential reality. Osvaldo Nico, a prominent figure on the club's Board of Directors, has confirmed preliminary conversations with Neymar, suggesting a potential return to his original team in the near future. According to Nico, the discussions are progressing, with the statement, "Neymar arrives at Santos in June. That’s the conversation we are having. Everyone played with Neymar at Santos - even [Zé]Love and André [Felipe] scored goals when he was there. He’s coming to Santos," highlighting the optimism surrounding this development. Neymar's journey to Al Hilal in August 2023 for a reported fee close to $87 million was a significant move. With his contract set to expire in June 2025, speculation is rife about his next destination. Neymar's Comeback After a Long Absence Neymar's tenure in Saudi Arabia has been fraught with challenges, including muscle issues that caused him to miss the initial games of the season, followed by a devastating ACL tear in his left knee, sidelining him for a year. Recently, he made a comeback, featuring in the final 13 minutes of a 5-4 victory over Al Ain in matchday 3 of the AFC Champions League Elite group stage. Rumors of a return to Santos have been circulating for months, with even the club's president, Teixeira, acknowledging contact in February. He stated, "The conversation was quick, but it is often the swiftest ones that have the best outcomes. No, no, it is too early [to sign a pre-contract]. He still has to recover from his knee injury. To play here, he has to make a full recovery. He will continue gaining experience there and then he will come back." Communications with Santos Neymar himself has played down such rumors, yet has not ruled out a return, saying, "There is no possibility of me returning to Santos next year. What has been said is completely false; there is nothing planned. I have one more year of contract with Al-Hilal. I hope to have a great season. I missed the last one. We are taking it one step at a time. There is still a lot of time ahead. Obviously, Santos is my favorite team, and one day I want to return, yes, but I have nothing planned in mind right now." A top official at the Brazilian club has now confirmed that discussions and negotiations are actively being pursued. Santos is currently leading the second division of Brazilian football (Série B) with four games remaining, and the top four teams will be promoted to the Brasileirão. Securing a spot in Série A would facilitate the signing of Neymar, as his salary—reportedly around $111 million at Al Hilal—poses a significant financial challenge for Santos. Nevertheless, his return would be a monumental event for the league. Neymar's impact before his move to Barça in 2013 was transformative, propelling him to global fame. His return would invigorate the club's new project following its historic relegation.

Amorim WILL be Man Utd manager as announce £8.3m release clause is being paid

Ruben Amorim is on the brink of becoming Manchester United's new manager after Sporting Lisbon released a statement confirming the English club's interest in hiring their boss.The Premier League giants began talks with Sporting Lisbon over a deal for Amorim after sacking Erik ten Hag on Monday afternoon following United's 2-1 defeat to West Ham on Sunday. Ruben Amorim is on the brink of becoming Manchester United's new manager after Sporting Lisbon released a statement confirming the English club's interest in hiring their boss. The Premier League giants began talks with Sporting Lisbon over a deal for Amorim after sacking Erik ten Hag on Monday afternoon following United's 2-1 defeat to West Ham on Sunday. The Board of Directors for Sporting Lisbon reportedly highlighted the terms and conditions set out in employment contract between Amorim and the club - specifically the £8.3million release clause. According to Sport Lisbon's statement, Manchester United registered an interested in paying the value of the aforementioned clause to secure Amorim's services sooner rather than later. Ten Hag guided United to their worst ever start to a Premier League season, and with three draws from winning positions in the Europa League from three games, results seemingly were not picking up. Amorim, meanwhile, has picked up plaudits in recent years for his exceptional work in the Portuguese capital, ended Sporting Club's 19-year wait for a league title in 2020-21, before winning the top-flight again last year. Sporting Lisbon are set to host Nacional in the Portuguese League Cup later tonight, with many speculating as to whether Amorim will be involved following the statement released by the club this afternoon. Amorim had previously been asked about links to United in the wake of Ten Hag's sacking, stating: 'I was already expecting this question and obviously I'm not going to talk about the future, because otherwise I'll always have to comment. I'm very proud to be Sporting coach, that's all.' This evening's fixture could be Amorim's final match in charge, with Portuguese newspaper Record reporting the 39-year-old could then travel to England on Wednesday.

Romano: The contract and agreement details with Amorim are 100% finalized

Romano: Contract, project and details of the agreement between Rúben Amorim and Man United are 100% in place.Negotiations underway with Sporting to find a solution for Amorim’s exit. Romano: Contract, project and details of the agreement between Rúben Amorim and Man United are 100% in place. Negotiations underway with Sporting to find a solution for Amorim’s exit.

Luke Shaw: Manchester United defender has suffered injury setback

Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw has suffered an injury setback.Shaw, who sustained a calf injury days before the start of the Premier League season, is yet to feature for United this season. Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw has suffered an injury setback. Shaw, who sustained a calf injury days before the start of the Premier League season, is yet to feature for United this season. The 29-year-old was expected to return from injury after the September international break. However, when that comeback was delayed, Shaw's potential return date was changed to after the October international break. However, the England international remains sidelined, and speaking after Man Utd's defeat to West Ham on Sunday, then United boss Erik ten Hag revealed that Shaw's recovery was not going to plan and "the wrong process" had led to a setback. "The process is not going as we expected, that's the truth," said Ten Hag, who was sacked by Man Utd on Monday. "The setback - if you want to call it like this - but we want to do it very careful because when he is now dropping again we have made the wrong process. "So we want to be very careful. We know his past. We have to do this right because we want him to be available because he will have a big impact on our performances and also on our levels. "We can't have it that he is playing for some games and then drops out again. So we do it very careful." United - who face Leicester in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, live onSky Sports+- currently have seven players out through injury and Ten Hag said last Friday that those absences were holding back his Man Utd. They were plagued by injuries last season and the recurrence of the problem led Ten Hag to call on the whole club to find solutions. "Yeah, [the injuries] holds us back in our levels. And also in our position in the league," said Ten Hag last week. "When you don't have the players available you can't line up the best team and that is what's holding us back in this moment and we need more players more often available. "We have to work all together on this point, players, coaching staff, all the other staff, we have to do better to get more available players. Because we know when we have them we are a really tough team to play and can be really successful, which is what we have shown over the last couple of months." Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, starting against Leicester, while a permanent head coach is recruited.

Five times Amorim has already crossed paths with Man United

Ruben Amorim's career has had a connection with Manchester United dating back to his playing days.The Sporting head coach is in talks with the Red Devils over the vacant managerial role, with Erik ten Hag leaving the club after months of pressure building on his shoulders. Ruben Amorim's career has had a connection with Manchester United dating back to his playing days. The Sporting head coach is in talks with the Red Devils over the vacant managerial role, with Erik ten Hag leaving the club after months of pressure building on his shoulders. The Dutchman had guided United to their worst ever start to a Premier League season, and with three draws from winning positions in the Europa League from three games, results seemingly were not picking up. Amorim, meanwhile, has picked up plaudits in recent years for his exceptional work in the Portuguese capital, ended Sporting Club's 19-year wait for a league title in 2020-21, before winning the top-flight again last year. Here, Mail Sport's JOE BERNSTEIN looks at five occasions where Amorim and United's paths have crossed... 1. HOME AND AWAY CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TUSSLES Amorim was a member of the Benfica team that faced United in the Champions League group stages in 2011-12 and went on to progress to the knockout stages at Sir Alex Ferguson's expense. He started on the right of a midfield three for the tie in Lisbon which finished 1-1 after Ryan Giggs cancelled out a goal by Oscar Cardozo. Amorim then appeared as a late substitute in a 2-2 draw at Old Trafford in November when Benfica were aided by an own goal from Phil Jones. Benfica topped the group and went on to reach the quarter-final when they were eliminated by eventual winners, Chelsea. Among Amorim’s team-mates in Portugal was future United midfielder, Nemanja Matic. Incidentally, United finished third in the group – in Sir Alex Ferguson’s penultimate Champions League campaign – and dropped into the Europa League. Amorim also returned a year later with Braga in Group H, in a side that also had Manchester City's future sporting director Hugo Viana in central midfield, losing 3-2 in Manchester, with Jonny Evans on the scoresheet with the winner for the hosts. 2. FERGIE NO 2 GIVES WORLD CUP CHANCE Two figures well-known to United fans were key to the beginning of Amorim’s international career for Portugal at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Amorim wasn’t named in the original squad but received a late call-up when United winger Nani was ruled out with a damaged collar bone suffered in training. The Portuguese boss Carlos Queiroz – who famously served as Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant at Old Trafford – chose Amorim, then 25 and doing well with Benfica, to join the party, and he played in the 0-0 group game against Ivory Coast. It proved the first of 14 international caps for Amorim, many of them alongside Cristiano Ronaldo. He also played in a World Cup group game against Ghana four years later in Brazil but was not in the squad which won Euro 2016. 3. ERIKSEN WILL REMEMBER Amorim had the last laugh over one of the players he will manage at Old Trafford, Christian Eriksen, when they faced each other in the 2014 Europa League knockout stages. Despite scoring a free-kick in the last-16 first leg at White Hart Lane, Eriksen’s Spurs were beaten 3-1 by Benfica with Amorim setting up one of the visitor’s goals with a slide-rule pass. The second leg ended 2-2 at The Stadium of Light and Benfica progressed all the way to that year’s final – where they were beaten on penalties after a goalless draw by Sevilla, managed by a certain Unai Emery 4. UGARTE REUNION Given that Manuel Ugarte had two successful years under Amorim at Sporting, one wonders if the £42million purchase of the Uruguayan from PSG in the summer was made with a change of manager already in mind. It would explain why Erik ten Hag has been so reluctant to start with Ugarte. There is no doubt working for Amorim catapulted the combative midfielder into a higher echelon. He won the Portuguese League Cup and Super Cup with Sporting in 2022 and his performances the following season won him a £50million move to Paris St Germain. Though things didn’t work out for Ugarte in France, the prospect of working again for Amorim at Old Trafford will be exciting for the 23-year-old. Ugarte has a contract at United until 2029 – plenty of time for their partnership to work again. Amorim is a confirmed fan. After a 3-1 win at fierce rivals Benfica in 2021, the Sporting coach took time to praise the "personality and quality he (Ugarte) showed with the ball." 5. CLEAN SHEET IN MANCHESTER Given the rivalry with Manchester City, United fans might be heartened that on Amorim's only trip to Manchester as a manager - with Sporting in 2022 - the Portuguese side kept a clean sheet in a goalless draw, Ugarte among his starting XI. It was one of only three occasions that City failed to score at home in the 2021/22 season from their 28 games at The Etihad. Not that Pep Guardiola was overly-disturbed, City had already won the reverse Champions League fixture in Lisbon 5-0 when Bernardo Silva scored twice.

Mikel Arteta, the Gunners' boss, has stated that the speed of Ethan Nwaneri's integration into Arsenal's first team is in the teenager's own hands. This statement follows the 17-year-old's impressive performance in Arsenal's 3-0 win against Preston North End in the EFL Cup, where he scored a stunning goal for the team's second score.

Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, has indicated that the progression of young midfielder Ethan Nwaneri into a first-team regular is contingent upon his own efforts and development. This comes after Nwaneri's remarkable contribution to the team's victory over Preston North End in the EFL Cup, where he netted a fantastic goal for the second score. Arteta has highlighted Nwaneri's talent, attitude, and the supportive environment around him as key factors for his potential rise in the team. "We must ensure his development is gradual and well-structured, but we are confident in his abilities," Arteta expressed to BBC Sport. Nwaneri has already demonstrated his potential with two goals in a 5-1 win against Bolton in the previous round of the competition, and he continued to impress in the recent match. Nwaneri has made four appearances off the bench in the Premier League this season, featuring against teams such as Tottenham, Leicester, Bournemouth, and Liverpool. In September 2022, Nwaneri made history as the youngest player ever to play in the Premier League, coming on against Brentford at just 15 years and 181 days old. Arteta believes that Nwaneri's growth will be self-paced, stating, "His development is in his hands, but I am very pleased with his progress." "He has a strong personality, he seeks to take control, he desires every ball, and he wants to make a difference." "His respect for the game is evident, his work ethic is outstanding, and his passion for football is clear. He is showing us his capabilities daily." “You can see his teammates trust him, they pass to him frequently, which is a positive sign. We certainly have a promising player on our hands."

MAN UTD CONFIDENTIAL: How Berrada helped United beat City to Amorim's signature

The cost-cutting under Manchester United’s new co-owners Ineos has created plenty of negativity around Old Trafford, but it has never backfired so spectacularly as the budget flight to Barcelona that blew the lid off their plans to sack Erik ten Hag and hold secret talks with potential replacements. The cost-cutting under Manchester United’s new co-owners Ineos has created plenty of negativity around Old Trafford, but it has never backfired so spectacularly as the budget flight to Barcelona that blew the lid off their plans to sack Erik ten Hag and hold secret talks with potential replacements. Confidential exclusively revealed last week that chief executive Omar Berrada had led a four-man delegation – also understood to include sporting director Dan Ashworth and technical director Jason Wilcox – to the Catalan capital to speak to representatives of former Barca boss Xavi Hernandez, and that Ruben Amorim was another leading contender. Now we can disclose that the United executives were spotted because they flew on Ryanair from Manchester rather than booking a private jet similar to the one laid on at short notice for Ten Hag after he was sacked on Monday morning. The cat was out of the bag and although Xavi was reluctant to take the job before the start of next season, Amorim has been more flexible and will replace Ten Hag who must have known he was a dead man walking once United’s secret mission unravelled. It still didn’t stop United from trying to save money on flights again by asking Manchester City if Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho could get a lift on their jet to the Ballon d’Or awards in Paris on Monday night only to be told that the plane was full. Utd can’t be City suckers again There is a strong suspicion that United moved for Amorim because Berrada has inside knowledge of Manchester City’s plans to appoint the Sporting Lisbon coach as Pep Guardiola’s replacement. Berrada joined United as chief executive in the summer after 13 years at City, who have already announced that Hugo Viana, Amorim’s director of football at Sporting, will take over the same role from Txiki Begiristain at the Etihad next season. If Guardiola doesn’t extend his contract, City were hoping to replicate his prolific partnership with Begiristain by reuniting Amorim and Viana. However, Berrada will also be aware that United’s attempt to gazump their neighbours has not always worked out well in recent years. United were panicked into agreeing a deal worth £35m with Arsenal by exchanging Henrikh Mkhitaryan for Alex Sanchez in January 2018 even though he would have been a free agent four months later. City had a strong interest in Sanchez but wouldn’t be drawn into paying the fee or making him their highest-paid player. It was a similar situation with Fred, who moved to Old Trafford for £52m from Shakhtar Donetsk after United swooped to sign him from under City’s noses, and Harry Maguire who cost £80m – a world record for a defender. And who could forget Jorge Mendes’ masterstroke by persuading United to bring Cristiano Ronaldo back to Old Trafford from Juventus on a salary in excess of £500,000-a-week on the basis that they couldn’t stomach the thought of him joining City. If United do indeed appoint Amorim ahead of their rivals, they can only hope it works out better this time. Ruben has history with the Reds At least Amorim will be familiar with his surroundings if he lands the United job. The 39-year-old spent a week observing his Portuguese compatriot Jose Mourinho at Carrington and Old Trafford in 2017 when Mourinho was United boss and Amorim was starting out in coaching. Having terminated his contract at Benfica and retired as a player in April 2017, Amorim began working towards his coaching badges and also did a course in psychomotor, studying the actions and movements in the human body. He started out as a coach at third-tier Casa Pia before finding success at Braga and Sporting. Amorim’s time under Mourinho was said to include a class about how United beat Ajax in the 2017 Europa League final. That was before Ten Hag took over the Dutch club – later going on to record a thumping 5-1 win away to Amorim’s Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League in September 2021. Ten Hag’s cup half empty Ten Hag leaned too heavily on his twin successes in domestic cup competitions, and he was at it again in what proved to be his final press conference. Hardly surprising given that he was speaking ahead of Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup fourth round tie against Leicester at Old Trafford – a five-minute Q&A session with journalists that took place following his after-match press interviews at West Ham on Sunday. But the Dutchman never fully appreciated that winning the FA Cup and Carabao Cup in two-and-a-half seasons at a club as big as Manchester United was no protection when the team languished in 14th place in the Premier League. ‘Definitely. It’s about trophies,’ said Ten Hag. ‘I don’t want to go in this debate again, but I think it’s the truth. There are not so many trophies you can win, and it you win a trophy in top football that is the most important because that is what the fans expect and we expect. We have five opportunities and one we missed, that was the Community Shield, but we have still have four to go.’ Sadly for Ten Hag, he had run out of chances. Ruud gets his lead role Ruud van Nistelrooy will be caretaker manager for the cup tie against Leicester, and it always felt as though the former Old Trafford favourite gave United a Plan B if they decided to sack Ten Hag. Certainly the body language between the two men did not seem as natural as Ten Hag’s relationship with his previous assistants Mitchell van der Gaag and Steve McClaren. It has also been noted since Van Nistelrooy returned to the club in the summer – having turned down a number of managerial jobs – that he had adopted a more high-profile presence on the touchline than Van der Gaag, McClaren and Rene Hake, the club’s other new No.2. In Istanbul on Thursday, Van Nistelrooy stayed out longer than Ten Hag and the players to milk the applause of travelling fans who sang his name following the Europa League draw against Fenerbahce. The 48-year-old will certainly be centre-stage on Wednesday night, even if his stay in the United hot-seat is shortlived. Fans treated like animals United fans were left fuming at being ‘treated like animals’ after the final whistle in Istanbul. Supporters who spoke to Confidential raged at being kept inside Fenerbahce’s stadium beyond 1.30am, and then left with limited options to get back to their accommodation before early flights home. Buses had been laid on but they were starting and ending over in the Besiktas area of the city, while many fans had based themselves in the Kadikoy district. With a lack of taxis, it meant that United fans had to walk and some didn’t get back to hotels until after 2am. ‘I’m going to be asking the club for a European credit as an apology,’ one fan, who asked not to be named, told Confidential. ‘It was a joke how we were treated.’ Stalwarts go in Carrington shake-up Ten Hag isn’t the only departure from United this week. Confidential understands that loans manager Les Parry and academy player liaison officer Dave Bushell are the latest long-serving members of staff to leave as part of a shake-up at Carrington. Parry has been at United since January 2013, having worked as a physio at Accrington Stanley and Tranmere Rovers where he was also appointed manager in the wake of John Barnes’ departure. His most recent role was overseeing United’s players out on loan, travelling around the country and abroad as well as attending the Transfer Room global conferences to discuss player trades. He was known for keeping the young players grounded with his candour. Bushell has been at United since January 1995 in a number of roles, and was presented with the Eamonn Dolan award by Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford last year in recognition of outstanding contributions to youth coaching. Liverpool land Utd physio Head physio Robin Sadler may have been surplus to requirements at United, but he has found a new home at rivals Liverpool. Sadler left United in January as part of an overhaul of the medical department led by head of sports medicine Gary O’Driscoll who appointed his former Arsenal physio Jordan Reece. Sadler had been at United for three years – working under Erik ten Hag, Ralf Rangnick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – following spells with Manchester City and Derby. Now Liverpool are having a reshuffle of their own under club doctor Jonathan Power and Sadler will be part of the new set-up. He said: ‘There are some excellent sports medicine practitioners here at Liverpool. It’s exciting to work here and to see what we can try to achieve together. My role is primarily to work and support performance to enable players to fulfil their potential both in training and out on the pitch on a matchday.’ Chido’s blazing a trail United are eager to keep a lid on the hype surrounding Chido Obi-Martin, but it may well be too late for that. The youngster has been wowing teammates and coaches with his skill level and he made light work of Nottingham Forest, scoring a 16-minute hat-trick on his full debut for the Under-18s. Confidential understands that United are wary of adding to the already huge amounts of pressure on his shoulders, particularly at a time where the first team are struggling badly for goals. For now, he is expected to continue learning and playing with Adam Lawrence’s U18s, with no immediate urge to fast track the 16-year-old through the ranks. Jungle no place for Savage Robbie Savage, part of the famed Class of ‘92 before finding wider success elsewhere, has rejected an offer to be the first former Manchester United player to take part in I'm a Celebrity. Savage was seriously temped by a lucrative opportunity to enter the jungle but instead when the series kicks off in Australia next month, he will spend cold nights concentrating on his day job of managing Macclesfield Town. Though no man with a United connection has appeared in the hit TV show, George Best’s wife Alex appeared in series three, while Colleen Rooney is strong tipped to be in this year’s line-up. Among the footballers to have previously taken part are David Ginola and Ian Wright, while manager Harry Redknapp was crowned king of the jungle in 2018.

A former star of Real Madrid has voiced his lingering disappointment, claiming that he was unjustly denied the Ballon d'Or award 14 years ago. The annual Parisian event, where a select group of 100 journalists cast their votes for the world's premier footballer, takes into account individual and team performance, as well as sportsmanship and fair play.

This year, Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior expressed his discontent after being overshadowed by Manchester City and Spain's Rodri marking, the first time since 2006 that a forward player like Thierry Henry was surpassed by a defender, in this case, Fabio Cannavaro. While time typically soothes such grievances, one ex-Real Madrid player continues to feel the sting of being overlooked during the era dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. This individual was passed over in favor of Messi 14 years ago. Wesley Sneijder, who had an exceptional year in 2010, showcased his skills on the field, making him a delight to watch. He secured the Champions League title with Inter Milan, under the guidance of Jose Mourinho, defeating Bayern Munich in a final that saw Diego Milito score twice. Sneijder was also pivotal for the Netherlands national team, which nearly clinched the World Cup, only to defeated be by Spain in extra time. Despite his remarkable achievements in 2010, Sneijder was not awarded football's most sought-after individual accolade. He did not even rank in the top three, with the panel opting for Barcelona's Messi, Xavi, and Andres Iniesta. Supporters of Sneijder still debate the decision, and the player himself, now 40, admits in an interview that he feels he was "robbed." However, Sneijder also noted that the controversy surrounding the snub has kept his legacy alive. He stated, "I'm more happy by the fact that now in 2024, 14 years later, people are still talking about it and they're telling me like 'Wes, you got robbed in 2010'." He further elaborated, "Imagine I won it and people now are saying, 'yeah but he robbed it'. Individual prizes are nice, but team prizes, raising the cup, the Champions League, are for me more valuable than winning the Golden Ball." Messi won the prestigious honor for the second time that year after netting an astonishing 60 goals for his club and country. Iniesta placed second due to his decisive goal in the World Cup final, while Xavi secured third place for his consistently strong midfield performances. This year marked the beginning of a streak of Messi and Ronaldo victories that remained unbroken until Luka Modric claimed the trophy in 2018.

Man Utd remain locked in talks with Sporting over Ruben Amorim's start date

Manchester United are currently locked in talks with Sporting Lisbon over Ruben Amorim’s notice period, which Mail Sport has learned is ‘a number of weeks’.The Portuguese club confirmed in a statement to the market on Tuesday afternoon that they had been approached by the Premier League giants, who want to replace sacked Erik ten Hag with their highly-rated young coach. Manchester United are currently locked in talks with Sporting Lisbon over Ruben Amorim’s notice period, which Mail Sport has learned is ‘a number of weeks’. The Portuguese club confirmed in a statement to the market on Tuesday afternoon that they had been approached by the Premier League giants, who want to replace sacked Erik ten Hag with their highly-rated young coach. The note added that that United had ‘expressed an interest’ in paying the 39-year-old’s release clause. However, while United are happy to meet that clause, they are currently negotiating when Amorim can start what will be a huge job at Old Trafford. And it can be revealed that Amorim, 39, has a notice period of ‘a number of weeks rather than days’. That means that should an agreement not be reached on an earlier termination, he will not be in the dugout when United take on Chelsea on Sunday. Indeed, there is a prospect that Amorim, who won back-to-back titles in Portugal, could not take charge until United head to Ipswich Town on November 24th. After facing Leicester in the EFL Cup tomorrow night and Chelsea on Sunday, the 14th-placed side take on Leicester in the league on November 10. Following that match, there is a two-week international break before the trip to Portman Road in a televised Sunday 4.30pm kick-off. Sporting’s statement disclosed that their directors had informed United’s representatives of the terms of the 39-year-old’s contract ‘specifically the termination clause of 10,000,000 euros’ and added that United ‘expressed an interest’ in paying that valuation.

'I called my father crying' - Rodri admits he nearly quit football

Rodri claimed his Ballon d’Or triumph was a victory for football after revealing he nearly quit as a teenager.The Manchester City midfielder’s surprise win in Paris was overshadowed by the childish boycott of the ceremony by Real Madrid after Vinicius Jr came second. But Rodri is a worthy winner after winning a fourth consecutive Premier League title and then the Player of the Tournament as his Spain won Euro 2024. Rodri claimed his Ballon d’Or triumph was a victory for football after revealing he nearly quit as a teenager. The Manchester City midfielder’s surprise win in Paris was overshadowed by the childish boycott of the ceremony by Real Madrid after Vinicius Jr came second. But Rodri is a worthy winner after winning a fourth consecutive Premier League title and then the Player of the Tournament as his Spain won Euro 2024. And his election is recognition by the jury that football is a team sport not just made up of superstar egos. Since Kaka ’s win in 2007, only Luka Modric (2018) and Karim Benzema (2022) have broken the domination of Lionel Messi (eight wins) and Cristiano Ronaldo (five). And Rodri, who appeared at the ceremony on crutches after undergoing season-ending ACL surgery last month, said: “We are often overshadowed by more attacking players but this time it is our turn. I am just a normal boy who profits from his job. I try to be a good team-mate, to give the best version of myself. “I have a thought for all the great midfielders, those who have won the Ballon d’Or before me. Messi and Ronaldo, the two best players in history, have for a long time confiscated this trophy but they are no longer here. Their absence launches a new era with a lot of great players. Football has won.” He is first Manchester City player to win the award and first Spanish male since Luis Suarez in 1960. His City team-mate Ilkay Gundogan said: “From today on he is finally not ‘underrated’ anymore. I’m especially happy that someone in a defensive position is winning this title and not always just the offensive players.” Shaped by Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid and now Pep Guardiola at City, the modest star has developed into the perfect modern midfielder. Rodri, who scored the winning goal in the 2023 Champions League final, added: “Winning the Ballon d’Or is the realisation of a dream and a genuine honour for me. “However, individual prizes are so often the result of strong team performances, and I am eternally grateful to everyone at Manchester City. My teammates are the best – I could not ask for more from them, both personally and professionally – and the support I receive from across every department at the football club means I am given the opportunity to focus on my football and perform at my very best. “I am very fortunate to be able to call myself a Manchester City player. My focus now is returning to full fitness and pulling on a City shirt again.” Madrid-born Rodri, who was rejected by the Atletico Madrid academy, also spoke about his testing journey to the top. “When I was 17-year-old I packed up my suitcases and I went to Villarreal with a dream to work in the Premier League,” he recalled. ”One day I called my father crying, telling him it was all over and that I had invested my life to get here and I had the feeling that this was it. “My father said we had come all the way here, let’s keep going and this is something that changed my mindset and now, here I am.” Rodri added: “I am going to keep doing what got me here. It is a message to young people: work, well done, can allow you to reach a very high level . It is my formula for success which will happen again I hope.”

TIM HOWARD: Why United's move for Amorim feels like the failed return of CR7

If you didn’t know any better, if you didn’t know that INEOS is running the football side of Manchester United, you’d be forgiven for thinking nothing has changed over the last decade. This club is still being run by Ed Woodward and the Glazers. It’s business as usual. If you didn’t know any better, if you didn’t know that INEOS is running the football side of Manchester United, you’d be forgiven for thinking nothing has changed over the last decade. This club is still being run by Ed Woodward and the Glazers. It’s business as usual. Because the decision to fire Erik ten Hag now makes no sense. What baffles me the most? We are precisely where we were last season. Yes, United won the FA Cup – and that does matter – but look at the bigger picture. The performances were terrible and so were the results. INEOS did a review in the summer and their conclusion was: Ten Hag is the right man for the job. But not only that, we will back him financially too. Now United have had a horrific start to the season and he’s gone. But what have they learned? If INEOS had a checklist – listing all the reasons Ten Hag has been sacked – it would look exactly the same as it did in June. Familiar issues remain around United’s style of play, the quality of their signings and their results. All that’s changed? We are six months further down the line – with another transfer window gone and yet more money down the drain. Oh, and Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino – two managers linked with United over the summer – have taken other jobs. Now Ruben Amorim is in talks to take over. But he was highly thought of in the summer, too. He hasn’t become a good coach in the last few months. And that’s what concerns me. This feels like the decision to re-sign Cristiano Ronaldo in 2021. Don’t forget, it looked like Ronaldo was going to Manchester City and so United decided to jump in at the 11th hour. It wasn’t part of their plan. It was a knee-jerk reaction and it backfired. I wonder if that is what has driven this decision to fire Ten Hag. It’s not long since City were linked with Amorim as a possible replacement for Pep Guardiola. Has that forced United’s hand? It would be a lazy way to run a club. But the last 10 years tells us one thing: United don’t know what manager they want. Since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson, they have hired David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Ralf Rangnick and then Ten Hag. They have tried serial winners, they have tried coaches with ties to the club and those with a track record in the Premier League. None worked. So now United are turning to one of the most exciting young coaches in Europe. They are not alone – bright, tactically-astute minds such as Xabi Alonso are now increasingly sought-after. With good reason, too. Look at the job Enzo Maresca is doing at Chelsea and the impact Fabien Hurzeler has made at Brighton. So I’m not opposed to Amorim because there is some naivety in youth. Manchester United has swallowed managers whole - good, experienced managers. So why not hire a younger coach who isn’t haunted by ghosts of the past? Amorim has had success at Sporting and he has very clear ideas about the way he wants to play. Then again, we said the same about Ten Hag after what he had achieved at Ajax. So is the manager really the issue at United? https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/8E/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcg71eAESnwAACprmoZnCs818.jpg I have been a player, a sporting director and I’m now an owner with Houston Dynamo. I know that some managers are hamstrung by what goes on around them - they are given no backing in the transfer market and no say in who they sign, for instance. No one can dispute that United have been a dysfunctional operation over the past decade. But the truth is: Ten Hag has been given money and a big role in deciding signings. Just look at the number of ex-Ajax players United have bought: Anthony, Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt… the list goes on. And yet he wasn’t getting a tune out of this squad. That is a manager’s primary job: ensure the team is performing at a high level and getting results. He failed on both counts. So why would United keep a manager who had been underperforming for so long? https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/8E/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcg71eAP6BEAACWucC9ZoA112.jpg I like what Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have put in place behind the scenes – I like the appointments of Dan Ashworth as sporting director and Omar Berrada as CEO. Maybe they decided that only so much could change straight away. Maybe this was a calculated risk: Ten Hag won’t be our manager long term but perhaps we can get away with keeping him while we fix everything else. Unfortunately, that brings other problems. Because, as long as you have a manager, you have to keep buying them players to make an impact. And these days, clubs are bound by Profitability and Sustainability Rules. They can’t keep spending forever. So now United has a squad full of players who are not good enough to win the Premier League or Champions League. Players Amorim won’t want.

Jota out until after international break, Slot confirms

Arne Slot confirmed Diogo Jota will not be available for Liverpool until after the international break, as the forward remains sidelined with a rib injury.Jota has missed the Reds' last two games after a collision with Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo forced him off during their 2-1 win over the Blues on October 20, Arne Slot confirmed Diogo Jota will not be available for Liverpool until after the international break, as the forward remains sidelined with a rib injury. Jota has missed the Reds' last two games after a collision with Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo forced him off during their 2-1 win over the Blues on October 20, The 27-year-old will also be absent from Liverpool's next four matches, including Wednesday's Carabao Cup clash with Brighton and Hove Albion, as well as home games against Bayer Leverkusen and Aston Villa. Slot's side also travel to the Amex Stadium without Alisson and Harvey Elliott, who are sidelined with a hamstring injury and fractured foot respectively, while Federico Chiesa's struggles for fitness since his move from Juventus continue. Though the Dutchman revealed youngster Connor Bradley could feature against Brighton, he will have to make do without Jota and Elliott until the end of November at least. "Conor [Bradley] is training with us again, so maybe he could be in the squad [for Wednesday]," Slot said. "Jota not, Alisson not, Harvey Elliott not and Federico [Chiesa] not." Asked whether Jota could return before the international break, the Reds head coach replied: "No, it will be after that. Elliott the same."

Man Utd decided six months ago Ruben Amorim was not for them, writes IAN HERBERT

You’ll find all the modern vocabulary of Premier League managerial recruitment swirling around Manchester United’s pursuit of Ruben Amorim.He’s a ‘sought-after young manager’ with a ‘stellar reputation’ and ‘the brightest of the hugely promising generation of young Portuguese coaches.’ His ‘stock is rising fast.’ You’ll find all the modern vocabulary of Premier League managerial recruitment swirling around Manchester United’s pursuit of Ruben Amorim. He’s a ‘sought-after young manager’ with a ‘stellar reputation’ and ‘the brightest of the hugely promising generation of young Portuguese coaches.’ His ‘stock is rising fast.’ Sorry to ruin this party, but he’s actually won the Portuguese league title twice in four years and the Portuguese League Cup three times. When his Sporting Lisbon side played Ajax at home in a Champions League group stage game in September 2021, his players were blown away in a 5-1 defeat. The Dutch team’s manager that night? The soon-to-be sought-after Erik ten Hag. We also presently witness Amorim being praised to the heavens because of his uncanny knack for ‘developing young players.’ Which I rather thought was supposed to be the prerequisite of any coach. Such objections to the received wisdom are an inconvenience at times like this. Along with numbers showing Amorim’s win ratio to be 71.7 per cent, while Ten Hag’s win ratio when United hired him was 73.49 per cent. Options are few and everyone is looking to the latest kid on the block. The new flavour of the month. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/97/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWchJjCALECSAACGE4LZGDM974.jpg There’s nothing wrong with recruiting relatively unproven overseas managers. So many, from Mauricio Pochettino to Roberto de Zerbi, have upended expectations. But this is not a breezy South Coast beach scene we’re talking about. It’s the raging, tempest of Manchester United, where managers and their reputations have routinely been devoured whole these past 11 years, before stepping on the first private jet out of the place. It’s the most difficult and complex crisis management role in world football. A task demanding someone with a material understanding of the white heat, the unyielding scrutiny and relentless impatience. Instead, United look a whole lot like a club stuck in a continuous loop, going back to a manager whom they actually decided six months ago was not for them. Liverpool, Aston Villa and West Ham have also all passed up on the chance to recruit Amorim, or at least speak to his agents. Please let’s dispense with any pretence about one of the prime motivations behind such a change of heart by the geniuses currently running this club. It’s a fear of missing out to Manchester City. United want Amorim because City supposedly want Amorim. Which, you would have to say, is hardly blue sky thinking. The notion of the Portuguese having a future at the Etihad has been tangible since it was announced that Hugo Viana, the director of football with whom he has formed a close partnership at Sporting Lisbon, will succeed Txiki Begiristain, when the Spaniard steps down from that role at City next summer. Amorim’s original intention had been to see out this season at Sporting and examine his options at the end of it, because they might have included linking up with Viana in Manchester, should Pep Guardiola walk away with Begiristain. City’s interest still seemed an obstacle just a week ago. United’s moves to pre-empt that included meeting Amorim during the international break earlier this month, for talks at which at least three of their executives were present. For City, recruiting Amorim to replace Guardiola would not represent an overwhelming risk, because he would be one significant cog in a well-oiled football structure, where the manager is asked to cohere to an agreed playing philosophy. It’s a structure which insulates a club from swinging wildly from one system to another, simply to fit the coach. It’s what progressive modern football executive oversight looks like. It’s also precisely the kind of structure you imagined INEOS would have established at United when recruiting Omar Berrada as chief executive from City, in January, and Dan Ashworth as sporting director from Newcastle United, in July, with Jason Wilcox, former City academy director, arriving as technical director last Spring. United are in desperate need of such a structure, though there is no evidence of one. At Old Trafford, Amorim will expect to be free to introduce his own playing philosophy – a 3-4-3 formation. And he will be reluctant to compromise on that, as Liverpool discovered when considering him as Jurgen Klopp’ successor this summer, and opting for Arne Slot instead, by some distance. United’s squad does not lend itself to playing with a back three and wing-backs. They currently have no natural, fit left wing back. And having blown the bank on average Dutch players for Ten Hag last summer, they do not have money to spend in January, either. Who was the right manager for United? This looks and feels like a club in need of a Carlo Ancelotti figure – as if – to instil sense and calm and bring coherence. The place exudes unhappiness to its core, with ancillary staff departing in the latest redundancy rounds describing a deep sense of hurt about a classless way things have been brought to an end. Graham Potter, out of a functioning football environment for too long, has been nowhere near consideration by United. Gareth Southgate – who would have brought maturity and sense – would not have gone down well in the court of public opinion. Xavi had Spanish ambitions to fulfil. Maintaining Ruud van Nistelrooy in an extended interim capacity, whilst INEOS reset and put some structure in place, would have made more sense than this punt on inexperience. It wasn’t to be. United just couldn’t wait. Change is in the air again at a club which has seems pathologically incapable of intelligent evolution. The new execs will power up the rollercoaster and crash on. Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or no-show was classless It’s hard to recall a more classless act than Real Madrid’s refusal to show up for the Ballon d’Or awards on Tuesday night because the player prize had gone to Manchester City’s Rodri, rather than Vinicius Junior. The players said they would not go where they are ‘not respected’, despite winning the club award. Sad to see the great club of Alfredo di Stefano, Ferenc Puskas, Francico Gento and Zinedine Zidane, boiling in its own bitterness and spite. Golf is reaching new audiences There was a time when club golf was remote and exclusive place, but the turn I took with my grandson last week around the nine-hole, par three course at Styal Golf Club, near us in Cheshire, was a reminder of why it has found new audiences and thrives. The boy has not long started picking up clubs - this was our third time around – and for me, there’s been an inbuilt worry about him digging out large chunks of fairway. The welcome and encouragement from the staff could not have been greater. And the nine shots I needed to exit the bunker at the fifth, reminiscent of that old Hamlet cigar ad, added considerably to his enthusiasm. England must acknowledge Bazball flaws It's the response in the worst of times which is the true gauge of greatness in sport. Ben Stokes has been garlanded with praise these past few years, yet amid the desultory performances in Pakistan, we’ve witnessed his loss of cool as England’s fielding fell apart in the second test, his distraction and aimlessness in the field during the third and a distinct reluctance to discuss anything off the field. Bazball has brought much joy but its practitioners’ refusal to acknowledge the flaws and failings is its least appealing trait. It smacks of swagger and ego.

Ruben Amorim, poised to command Manchester United's squad, is recognized as one of football's most promising young managers. However, the journey to his current status was not without its doubts and challenges. In the early stages of his managerial career, Amorim, after only two matches, was so uncertain about his ability to lead that he attempted to resign. This incident occurred back in 2018 when he was just 33 years old and had started his coaching journey with Portuguese third-tier team Casa Pia, which was marked by two consecutive losses.

Upon entering the dressing room following his second defeat, Amorim had made up his mind to end his tenure prematurely, believing it would be in the best interest of all parties involved. As a novice still in pursuit of his Level 1 coaching certification, he felt that the club required a more established and experienced figurehead. With unwavering honesty, he communicated this to his surprised players. Among those players was Evandro Roncatto, a former teammate from their days at Belenenses and a close friend who had been signed by Amorim. Now the sports director of Oliveira do Hospital, Roncatto recalls the incident vividly. Despite Amorim's self-doubt, his players had already witnessed enough to have faith in him, and they swiftly conveyed a firm message to club president Victor Franco. Roncatto shared, "I was playing for Kalamata in Greece when Ruben called, and I was immediately impressed. However, he had doubts because he lacked a professional coaching qualification. He was very honest about his concerns, fearing he might harm the team due to not being a well-known coach. He entered the dressing room while we were changing and announced in front of the president and vice-president, 'I'm leaving.'" The players' immediate response was to stand up and inform the president that if Amorim were to be let go, they would all leave the club as well. They were emotionally invested and staunchly defended their coach. When the president found himself in such a predicament, any thoughts of dismissing Amorim vanished almost instantly. The players' faith in the dressing room was well-placed, as Casa Pia went on to claim the championship, and Amorim's coaching career skyrocketed. Within a year, Braga had recruited him as their reserve team manager, and three months later, he was at the helm of the first team. After just 13 games Sporting, Lisbon invested £8 million to secure his services. This episode also highlighted the loyalty that many players who have worked under Amorim claim he instills in them, with Roncatto being a prime example. The bond between them had been forged when Roncatto first arrived at Belenenses in the early 2000s, with Amorim acting as his unofficial guardian, providing meals at his family home and helping him acclimate to life in Portugal. Roncatto, now 38, praised Amorim's treatment of his players as exceptional, stating, "When he left Casa Pia for Sporting Braga, I said, 'This is where the story of an elite coach begins.' I wasn't wrong, and United has chosen the perfect person for the job."

'The FOUR star players Ten hag instructed to sign' only for the club to fail

Prior to his sacking, Erik ten Hag was reportedly frustrated that Man United chiefs failed to sign four star players for the side.The Dutchman was sacked by Red Devils boss on Monday, finally bringing an end to his two-and-a-half year spell in charge that had been punctuated in its latter months by the near-constant threat of his dismissal. Prior to his sacking, Erik ten Hag was reportedly frustrated that Man United chiefs failed to sign four star players for the side. The Dutchman was sacked by Red Devils boss on Monday, finally bringing an end to his two-and-a-half year spell in charge that had been punctuated in its latter months by the near-constant threat of his dismissal. His position looked untenable ahead of the FA Cup final in May following a disappointing league campaign that saw them finish eighth in the Premier League. But their shock 2-1 win over Manchester City spared the former Ajax manager for a few more months. Ten Hag safety was only confirmed after Ineos conducted an end-of-season review, which included club chiefs speaking to prospective candidates. It's now emerged, prior to Ten Hag's departure, that the Dutchman did voice his frustration with United being unable to sign any of his transfer targets. According to ESPN, Ten Hag was frustrated that the club failed to sign Frenkie de Jong, Alexis Mac Allister, Federico Valverde and Harry Kane. The report further claims that United's chiefs found his demands to be 'unrealistic'. Ever since Ten Hag arrived at Old Trafford, rumours over a potential move for Barcelona star De Jong had been rife but the transfer never materialised. Meanwhile, United's interest in Harry Kane was well known but, instead, they opted to sign Rasmus Hojlund while the England captain joined Bayern Munich. In April last year, rumours suggested that United were keen on signing at-the-time Brighton star Mac Allister but, instead, the midfielder moved to Liverpool. Whereas Valverde has remained firmly at Madrid likely due to his high wage and the immense transfer fee it would take to pry him away from the Bernabeu. Meanwhile, Ten Hag reportedly considered quitting United in the summer amid criticism of his performance and speculation the club were in talks with managers. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/94/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmchDCqAeQlXAACPdfnBC2U192.jpg According to Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, reports of those meetings, as well as heavy criticism of his performance as United boss made the 54-year-old consider resigning. They report that Ten Hag only decided to stay during a lengthy summit in Ibiza, where he had jetted off on holiday. Ten Hag agreed a one-year contract extension with the club following the clear-the-air talks in the summer. That deal would have seen him remain at the helm until 2026. Ten Hag lifted the lid on his discussions with United and revealed the club had turned up on his doorstep to confirm they wished for him to remain.

It will be a 'MIRACLE' if Paul Pogba can return to the top level, Petit claims

Former France World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit has said he is 'happy' for Paul Pogba after his doping ban was cut short - but claimed it will be a 'miracle' if he can return to the top level.Pogba was staring retirement in the eyes when he received a four-year ban from football, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled earlier this month that he inadvertently took DHEA, a substance that boosts testosterone that is on WADA's banned list. Former France World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit has said he is 'happy' for Paul Pogba after his doping ban was cut short - but claimed it will be a 'miracle' if he can return to the top level. Pogba was staring retirement in the eyes when he received a four-year ban from football, but the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled earlier this month that he inadvertently took DHEA, a substance that boosts testosterone that is on WADA's banned list. It is understood that CAS' ruling allows Pogba to recommence training in January 2025, with a view to playing again in March the same year. Fans are now waiting to see where the former Manchester United midfielder will be playing, with him understood to be in negotiations to leave Juventus - the club he is contracted to and last played for. And Petit, who is, like Pogba, a former World Cup winner with France, has exclusively told Mail Sport on behalf of BetBrain that he would be surprised if the 31-year-old's career continued at a top team. 'I'm very happy for him, very happy for him,' he began. 'But he's right now, 31 or 32, something like that, the last time he played a proper game was a year ago, in September. 'For me, it will be a miracle if he can come back at the highest level. He's got the quality as a footballer. Can he get the energy as a human being to fill the expectation? I'm not really convinced about that. 'What happened in his private life, has been an earthquake. I don't think a lot of people will have survived what he's been through, with his brothers, his friends. Can you imagine what happened to him? Now you can understand why he was not really good with Manchester United. Sometimes on the pitch, he was lost. But I can understand with what happened to him.' Pogba's brother and five other men will reportedly stand trial as part of an alleged extortion case that targeted the Frenchman two years ago. Pogba filed a complaint after he was kidnapped and robbed in March 2022 by two unidentified masked and armed men in Paris , who demanded €13m (£10.98m) for 'protection services'. After the original threat, the group were said to repeatedly intimidate Pogba and claim that he didn't support them after becoming an international star in order to get him to pay, as per Le Parisien. And, after two years of investigations, the Paris prosecutor's office confirmed that Mathias Pogba and the five men would stand trial. Petit added: 'If my brother betrayed me... I mean, football is important, but life is more important, and we're talking about life. 'I hope I'm wrong. Honestly, because I like him, I like his personality, and I like the player as well, but it will be a big miracle if he comes back at at the highest level. I wish him the best, honestly, but the damages of what happened have been terrible, honestly, terrible. 'I'm not sure that in England you you understand exactly what happened to Pogba over the last two, three years. It's a nonsense. I've never seen that before.' Petit also commented on France captain Kylian Mbappe, who has been at war with former side Paris Saint-Germain after leaving the club for Real Madrid in the summer for free. PSG are set to take their wage dispute with Mbappe to court after the French football league's governing body (LFP) ruled in favour of the forward. French media report the 25-year-old, who has not commented on the dispute, is seeking around 55 million euros (£46m) in salary and bonuses he says he is owed by the club. The Ligue 1 champions, however, say Mbappe's contract was 'legally amended' and that he reneged on commitments when he left the club to join Madrid. He has also been the subject of controversy in France in recent weeks having faced criticism in his home country for missing their Nations League games against Israel and Belgium while being available to play for Real Madrid. The forward picked up a muscle injury last month but made his return to the pitch prior to the international break. Though his team-mates have leapt to his defence, Petit has insisted that his reputation has been spiraling since he left for Spain. 'In space of one year, his image has been going down,' he said. 'A year ago, he was the main man here in France. Everybody loved him. But what happened with PSG, what happened in the national team as well, the fight, he was not there. 'His image has not been good at all in France for at least a year now, and it's going down, down, down every single week. 'He knows that he's under huge pressure at Real Madrid, the biggest club in the world. He knows the expectation over there. And this is likely the the priority of Mbappe. Mbappe actually is more focused on the Real Madrid than the national team. 'And I can understand that honestly, but he has to be very, very careful, because, in France, his image is not good at all.'

The ‘real reason’ why Vinicius Jr didn’t win the 2024 Ballon d’Or

The Brazilian winger missed out on the title of ‘best in the world’ to Man City’s Rodri.Vinicius Jr, as you surely know, missed out on the Ballon d’Or last night to Rodri of Manchester City, the midfield lynchpin who has guided his side to unprecedented success both domestically and internationally, taking them to a level previously unseen in England. The Brazilian winger missed out on the title of ‘best in the world’ to Man City’s Rodri. Vinicius Jr, as you surely know, missed out on the Ballon d’Or last night to Rodri of Manchester City, the midfield lynchpin who has guided his side to unprecedented success both domestically and internationally, taking them to a level previously unseen in England. However, the outrage of the apparent ‘robbery’, according to some, suffered by the Spanish club perhaps have a simple and understandable reason: there are a lot of good players in the world and Rodri is one of them. And a lot of them are also at Real Madrid. The vote between the 15-time European champions, as they charged to thetop of LaLiga and the Champions Leaguelast season, was spread out amongstVini Jr, Toni Kroos, Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal, the standout performers for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Thissplit in success on the fieldhas led to thevote for Vini Jr being divided upamongst the aforementioned names, with the Englishman starting off his career at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in a fairy-tale-like way,firing goals in from the startand getting assists for Vini and co. across the season. DaniCarvajal, meanwhile, took his Real Madrid success one step further, winning the Euros with Spain and guiding his team from the right wing, making it his own in attack and defence. AndToni Kroos simply bossed the midfieldfor another season, probably ending on a 101% pass completion rate. This team success that was spread throughout the team - whether Vini Jr was, in your opinion, ‘the best in the world’ or not -makes it even more unlikely that all 100 journalists would choose himas the undisputed star ofLos Blancos. Vinicius Jr got 24 goals; Bellingham got 23. However, the Englishman scored 4more in the domestic competition (19) than Vinicius (15). He also managed more assists (6 vs 5). Carvajal‘s 7 goal contributions puts him up there as well, from right-back. It‘s a tough question that got people wound up last night. I guess the answer is that it’s simply really hard to play elite footballand there are lots of players who are good at doing so. Vini will get his chance again; perhaps he will take it next time.

La Liga president Javier Tebas slams Real Madrid for 'lacking elegance'

The president of La Liga has accused Real Madrid of showing a 'lack of elegance' following the club's dramatic boycott of Monday night's Ballon d'Or awards.European champions Madrid had initially planned to send a delegation of 50 people to Paris, where they were expecting to see Vinicius Junior be crowned as the best male player in world football. The president of La Liga has accused Real Madrid of showing a 'lack of elegance' following the club's dramatic boycott of Monday night's Ballon d'Or awards. European champions Madrid had initially planned to send a delegation of 50 people to Paris, where they were expecting to see Vinicius Junior be crowned as the best male player in world football. Madrid right back Dani Carvajal - who won last season's Champions League with his club and then Euro 2024 with Spain in the summer - was also expected to rank high in the vote organised by France Football. However, shortly before their chartered plane had been due to leave Spain, it was leaked that Manchester City midfielder Rodri was going to beat Vinicius and Carvajal to the top prize. Madrid president Florentino Perez reacted by calling the trip off before the club issued a strong statement. The statement declared: 'If the award criteria doesn't give it to Vinicius as the winner, those same criteria should point to Carvajal as the winner. 'As this was not the case, it is clear that Ballon d'Or-UEFA does not respect Real Madrid. And Real Madrid does not go where it is not respected.' Tebas reacted on Tuesday by telling French newspaper L'Equipe: 'I'm a Madrid fan. The important values of this club are to be a gentleman and to shake hands when you lose. 'I think Real Madrid lost that mentality a long time ago. They should have gone to the ceremony and not questioned the France Football system, which is transparent, with 100 journalists voting. 'Real Madrid's victimhood doesn't have to be and it is exaggerated. I don't know where they're going. We also experience this lack of elegance in Spain.' The leaked info that caused Madrid to boycott Monday's ceremony proved correct. Rodri was indeed announced as the winner of the 2024 men's Ballon d'Or award. Vinicius finished second in the vote, ahead of Madrid team-mates Jude Bellingham and Carvajal in third and fourth respectively. City striker Erling Haaland came fifth. Rodri played 34 Premier League games last season to help City win a fourth straight title. The defensive midfielder then played a starring role in Spain's Euro 2024 triumph in Germany over the summer. Vinicius won La Liga and the Champions League with Madrid last season. The Brazilian, 24, provided six goals and four assists in 10 Champions League games, as well as a further 20 goal involvements in 26 La Liga matches.

Representative for Javier Gil: Content with Juventus Sub Role

The Spanish footballer was a substitute during the 2-2 stalemate against Parma. Javier Gil's agent, Alejandro Camano, informedW TM: "Javier is a talented central defender. Standing at an impressive height of 192 centimeters, he is robust and boasts a skillful left foot. Born and raised in Murcia, he progressed through Alaves before joining Juventus' youth squad in the summer of 2023. The Spanish footballer was a substitute during the 2-2 stalemate against Parma. Javier Gil's agent, Alejandro Camano, informed TMW: "Javier is a talented central defender. Standing at an impressive height of 192 centimeters, he is robust and boasts a skillful left foot. Born and raised in Murcia, he progressed through Alaves before joining Juventus' youth squad in the summer of 2023. "He was thrilled with the call-up and the confidence shown by coach Motta. He understands that there's a long journey ahead and this is just the start, but he's developing and enhancing his skills. Juventus is precisely where Javier aspired to be; he couldn't be more satisfied. "With his natural ability, he has the potential for a brilliant career, just wait and see."

Mikel Arteta provides updates on three Gunners stars

Mikel Arteta has been handed a triple injury boost ahead of a gruelling run of away games while the Arsenal boss is considering giving another teenage goalkeeper his debut.Defensive duo Gabriel and Justin Timber both limped off during Arsenal's draw against Liverpool on Sunday while Gunners captain Martin Odegaard has been out with an ankle injury since September. Mikel Arteta has been handed a triple injury boost ahead of a gruelling run of away games while the Arsenal boss is considering giving another teenage goalkeeper his debut. Defensive duo Gabriel and Justin Timber both limped off during Arsenal's draw against Liverpool on Sunday while Gunners captain Martin Odegaard has been out with an ankle injury since September. Arteta was positive about his key trio ahead of four away trips starting at Preston in the League Cup on Wednesday before clashes at Newcastle, Inter Milan and Chelsea. 'We are still assessing Gabriel but it doesn't look bad at all,' said Arteta. 'He was much better the next day so hopefully he will be fine. He has had some tests. 'Jurrien is fine. He was very tired, he had been out for a while and could not continue the game but there is no new injury there at all. He could not continue so we decided to make a very safe call. But he was fine.' Mail Sport revealed that Odegaard was ramping up his recovery and due to return to training on the grass this week and Arteta confirmed he was hopeful his skipper would return before the international break. 'He's been on the grass for a few weeks, but there is still a few boxes to tick,' he added. 'How fast we can do that last stage of the rehab is a question we'll have to answer once we have players around him and he starts competing with the team. He hasn't done that yet.' There was, however, bad news for Riccardo Caliafiori who looks set to be sidelined for ‘a few weeks’ after his injury against Shakhtar Donetsk. Arteta is considering handing a debut to young goalkeeper Tommy Setford at Deepdale on Wednesday night. The Ajax academy product, whose brother Charlie also plays for the Dutch side and whose father Chris is a professional golfer, joined in the summer only to miss most of the season with a hip injury. If he is to play, it will be the second round in a row that Arteta has fielded a young keeper after Jack Porter started against Bolton in their previous game. 'We brought Tommy because we know he's got the qualities we're looking for with our goalkeeping area,' said Arteta. 'Unfortunately he's been injured so he hasn't really played. 'It's not a question about age, it's that if they play it's because they deserve to the same as the rest of the players. 'At the end of the day we have to reward the people who, each day, they behave in a certain manner and they have the level to play in the manner we want to play in and if that is the case, I don't care if they are players from the academy, youth players or seniors, they will play.'

Jose Mourinho explains his red card against Man United

Jose Mourinho has opened up on the red card he picked up during Fenerbahce's Europa League clash with Manchester United last week.Mourinho, who used to manage United, is now in charge of the Turkish side and led them to a 1-1 draw with the Red Devils last Thursday, with the Portuguese's outfit coming from behind. Jose Mourinho has opened up on the red card he picked up during Fenerbahce's Europa League clash with Manchester United last week. Mourinho, who used to manage United, is now in charge of the Turkish side and led them to a 1-1 draw with the Red Devils last Thursday, with the Portuguese's outfit coming from behind. But the game was dominated by the veteran manager, who was sent off in the second half of the game following protests against a refereeing decision. It was the latest episode of what has been a chaotic managerial career for Mourinho, but he has now opened up on the events which took place just a matter of hours ago. Speaking to Sky Sports, he attempted to explain what happened, and continued to plead his innocence. 'I was just screaming, like everyone on the bench and in the stadium, "It's a penalty, it's a penalty!" without any kind of insult, and I get a red card,' he said. 'I know it's a battle I can never win. Asked if he deserves better treatment, he replied: 'I deserve to be (treated) like everybody else. On the pitch it doesn't matter if you are Lionel Messi or playing your first match. The rules are the same for Messi and the young kid. 'For coaches it's the same thing. It doesn't matter if you are Carlo Ancelotti or a young coach just starting. Ancelotti has to behave the same way as the young kid has to behave.' After the game, Mourinho gave a press conference which grabbed attention for his words aimed in the direction of UEFA. He joked he would be prepared to coach a team near the bottom of the Premier League in England when he leaves Fenerbahce to avoid UEFA competitions, saying: 'I think the best thing I have to do is when I leave Fenerbahce, I go to a club that does not play UEFA competitions. 'If any club in England from the bottom of the table needs a coach in two years, I am ready to go. I don't want to say anything more about it.' He added of his relationship with UEFA: 'I don't want to have special treatment, I want to have honest treatment. Just that. So if I do something wrong punish and pay, but if I do nothing wrong leave me in peace, but it's getting difficult. 'Since that Budapest final it's getting difficult. The feeling is, I am in trouble in Europe. I lost a final in a way that I still don't accept, and since then I feel it (a penalty shootout defeat by Sevilla in the 2023 Europa League final).'

Liverpool's defensive cornerstone, Virgil van Dijk, has shown admiration for Arsenal's William Saliba, stating that the young defender evokes memories of his own early career. In an interview, van Dijk, a decorated player with numerous accolades including the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup, commended Saliba's progress.

Van Dijk, in conversation on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, singled out Saliba when reflecting on defenders who have caught his attention. He noted, "Saliba is making significant strides at present. He's a reliable player and does an excellent job when his team has possession of the ball." When Ferdinand inquired if Saliba's style of play is reminiscent of van Dijk's, the Dutch defender responded affirmatively, "Yes, perhaps. Honestly, at his age, I hadn't reached the level he's at now. That's the beauty of football; there's always something to learn from watching other defenders." Van Dijk continued, "I enjoy observing other players, especially at the highest level, as you can glean valuable insights. Each team defends differently, and it's crucial to be mindful of that. For instance, we at Liverpool dominate possession, and as a left-sided center-half, I've played for many years. It's beneficial to learn from others' positioning and tactics." "I believe you can always learn, no matter your age, and I continue to do so," van Dijk emphasized. Regarding his future at Liverpool, van Dijk, who is 33 and sees his contract ending this season, is in negotiations for an extension. He stated, "Discussions are underway, but the future remains uncertain. My focus is solely on helping Liverpool win upcoming games. The rest we,'ll see."

Real Madrid's President Florentino Perez is reportedly growing increasingly frustrated with the team's performance under Coach Carlo Ancelotti.

As winter approaches, the heat is on for Real Madrid's coach, with President Perez singling out Ancelotti as the main reason for the team's lackluster performance. With winter upon us, Real Madrid's coach Carlo Ancelotti is under the microscope, as President Florentino Perez points to him as the primary reason for the team's underwhelming results. Alfredo Matilla from Relevo has detailed the growing discontent within the club, as Perez calls for immediate action to turn things around. Although not directly confronting Ancelotti, Perez has made his expectations clear through various means. The Real Madrid President is at a loss to explain the team's poor form and attitude, particularly after their defeat to Lille and the revelation that Dortmund outran them by 11km in a Champions League match. Perez's frustration is becoming more evident during his visits to the dressing room. Perez is confident that Ancelotti has the talent at his disposal, with Mbappe, Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo Goes, to perform better. He believes that Ancelotti should not be benching Rodrygo and that all four can coexist on the field. Ancelotti has privately admitted to Perez that he is still searching for the right solution. The Directors' Box at Real Madrid is concerned about several issues, including the team's defensive frailties, Bellingham's performance, and the limited playing time for Endrick Felipe and Arda Guler. The management is puzzled by their minimal involvement, especially given their potential, and believe they should be challenging the starters. The central midfield is a particular point of concern. Tchouameni's form has not impressed, and it's likely he will be spending more time on the bench. Modric's role is also questioned, with the belief that Bellingham and Camavinga should be more central. Perez favors Camavinga but is disappointed with his struggles in the midfield and his occasional deployment as a left-back, which he sees as a misuse of talent. Meanwhile, those close to Perez suggest that Tchouameni's struggles are a result of the tactics, not his ability. The consensus in the club's top offices is that this is the strongest Real Madrid squad in history, making their current performances unacceptable. Ancelotti is charged with improving the team, including integrating Rodrygo, Bellingham, Mbappe, and Vinicius. This report underscores that Ancelotti faces not only on-field challenges but also pressure from the club's hierarchy. Known for his ability to navigate pressure at Real Madrid, Ancelotti has weathered tough moments before, but the current demands leave him with limited room for error.

Ruud van Nistelrooy, who recently took on the role of interim manager for Manchester United following Erik ten Hag's dismissal, has disclosed a conversation he had with Sir Alex Ferguson prior to his debut match at the helm. This exchange seemed to have a positive impact, as United secured an impressive 5-2 victory over Leicester in the Carabao Cup.

Van Nistelrooy reached out to the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson for guidance before his first game in charge of Manchester United. The move paid off, as the team delivered a decisive 5-2 win against Leicester in the Carabao Cup, shortly after Erik ten Hag's departure. Van Nistelrooy, who is preparing for a match against Chelsea on Sunday, sought advice from his former mentor, Ferguson, before facing Leicester. The former player, who had a falling out with Ferguson that led to his exit from Manchester United in 2006, has since reconciled with the iconic manager. Van Nistelrooy said, "I did speak with him, and he wished me well. We discussed my current situation and the team's status." "His primary message was well wishes. It's always a pleasure to have a conversation with him." When asked if he ever envisioned returning to Manchester United in such a capacity after his departure, the Dutchman responded, "No, at that time, management wasn't on my mind." "I left for Real Madrid in 2006 to continue performing at the highest level and to maximize my potential as a player." "After my playing career, I began to contemplate coaching. It's a privilege to be back at the club and in the city I cherish." "I enjoy my time here, being around Manchester, engaging with the players and staff, even though many familiar faces are no longer around." Van Nistelrooy's contentious relationship with Ferguson began after he was left on the bench during United's 4-0 League Cup final win over Wigan in 2006. Tensions escalated when he was omitted from the squad for United's 4-0 victory over Charlton in the last game of that season. He recalled, "I started pre-season, but it was clear he was looking past me and focusing on the future of the club with other players." Van Nistelrooy also shared that he contacted Ferguson in 2011 to apologize, mending their relationship on his wife's advice. Despite his impressive record with United, making 219 appearances and scoring 150 goals over five years, Van Nistelrooy admitted to finding it odd to be in the position Ferguson once held while he was a player. He expressed, "In my team talk, I stand before the team, conveying the essence of Manchester United, the atmosphere at Old Trafford, the chants of the fans, and their significance." "You aim to convey the unique pride of playing for this club. It's an honor to share that with the players and to witness their interaction with the supporters." "The support I received was incredible, and it only fuels my commitment, especially in the short term, as we prepare for Chelsea on Sunday."

Two top EPL clubs 'could move for PSG striker Randal Kolo Muani for just £33m

Two Premier League heavyweights have been named as potential destinations for Paris Saint-Germain forward Randal Kolo Muani.The striker, 25, signed for PSG from Eintracht Frankfurt for £77million in 2023 but has managed just 11 goals in 50 appearances. Two Premier League heavyweights have been named as potential destinations for Paris Saint-Germain forward Randal Kolo Muani. The striker, 25, signed for PSG from Eintracht Frankfurt for £77million in 2023 but has managed just 11 goals in 50 appearances. Now the Ligue 1 champions are prepared to offload him in January for between £33m and £42m, according to L'Equipe. The French outlet claims that Arsenal and Manchester United could be potential destinations but that the identity of the latter's next manager - at this stage looking likely to be Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim - will be influential. Kolo Muani was all the rage in the 2022-23 season when he hit 23 goals and provided 17 assists in all competitions for Frankfurt, earning his move to PSG in summer last year. He had been linked with a possible £105m move to United instead and admitted that playing in the Premier League was a 'childhood dream'. In the 2022 World Cup final he had the chance to win the tournament for France but was denied by Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's 'save of the century'. France have been able to get more out of Kolo Muani that PSG, with the forward scoring six goals in 12 international outings this year. In the most recent international break he struck twice against rivals Belgium in the Nations League. However, he has managed just two starts all season for PSG and even winger Ousmane Dembele was chosen over him as the number nine for the 3-0 win at Marseille on Sunday. PSG have reportedly spoken with his delegation and are willing to let him start afresh elsewhere in the new year. Borussia Dortmund and Juventus had been interested in the summer. Kolo Muani, who rose from the French third tier to the World Cup final in three years, is commended for his electric pace and strength.

Ruben Amorim, poised to take the reins at Manchester United, exudes the same commanding presence as Jose Mourinho and is eager to make his mark on the Premier League.

Ruben Amorim's beaming smile was evident when questioned about his admiration for the English top-flight, to which he responded with a resounding "Everything." This up-and-coming coach from Europe was keen to delve deeper into the discussion while in Lisbon. Ruben Amorim's beaming smile was evident when questioned about his admiration for the English top-flight, to which he responded with a resounding "Everything." This up-and-coming coach from Europe was keen to delve deeper into the discussion while in Lisbon. However, Amorim found himself in a bizarre scenario before exiting the media room at Sporting’s training facility. He has pledged to discuss his prospective role at Old Trafford more openly following Friday's Primeira Liga contest against Estrela Amadora. Yet, it's already apparent that Amorim is a compelling figure in the footballing world. And it's evident that he is looking forward to the challenge of English football with great enthusiasm. His pre-match interactions with the press at the club’s training hub — the Academia Cristiano Ronaldo — are so engaging that a countdown timer has emerged on social media for each of his appearances. Entertaining press conferences? Does this remind you of another Portuguese coach? Indeed, when Jose Mourinho arrived at Chelsea at the age of 41, he proclaimed himself the Special One. Amorim is set to take over at Old Trafford even younger, at the age of 39. While Mourinho's birthday falls on January 26th and Amorim's on January 27th, it seems Amorim may tread a similar path to his compatriot in many respects. Although Amorim has not confirmed his move to England, his two press conferences since the United news broke have been captivating. He possesses a sparkle in his eye, a good sense of humor, answers questions thoroughly, and is an excellent communicator in fluent English. These skills will be indispensable at Old Trafford, particularly in his dealings with players, board members, and fan interactions. Mourinho often used his press conferences with a clear intent, a tactic Amorim also employs. While Erik ten Hag conducted himself well during his tenure at Manchester United, he lacked the charisma that Amorim possesses. Amorim's career has been on an upward trajectory, making his journey thus far a smooth one.

The critical 24 hours in Paris in which the Ballon d’Or went to Rodri

On Sunday night, rumours began to circulate that Florentino Pérez would not go to Paris.“This year, for the first time,the winner will not be photographed or interviewed beforehand, as was previously the case,” France Football emphasised to the Ballon d’Or candidates since the finalists were announced back in September. On Sunday night, rumours began to circulate that Florentino Pérez would not go to Paris. “This year, for the first time,the winner will not be photographed or interviewed beforehand, as was previously the case,” France Football emphasised to the Ballon d’Or candidates since the finalists were announced back in September. The organisers of the award aimed toprevent potential winners from declining their invitationsto the gala, a situation that had occurred in the past with players like Messi and Cristiano serving as notable examples. As a result, all finalists understood that the winner would remain a mystery until the envelope was opened. Furthermore, as reported by AS, the sports brand Nike, which represents the two main favourites, Vinicius and Rodri, prepared special golden boots for both players, indicating that they had not chosen a side in the uncertainty surrounding the outcome. The leaks began on Sunday night This uncertainty led Rodri, the eventual winner, to attend the gala with his family and work team, regardless of the result. His travel plans remained unchanged: he arrived in Paris on Monday at noon, rested at a well-known hotel, and approached the gala with the hope of winning the award. Events began to unfold on Sunday nightwhen it was rumoured at the last minute thatFlorentino Pérez would not travel to Paris. No compelling reason was given for his decision, other than speculation that Vinicius would not emerge as the winner. Although Rodri did not consider himself the favourite, he began to sense that he had a chance at the prize. This was more a hypothesis than a certainty: if Madrid’s president was absent in Paris and none of their players received an award,Rodri could become the top contender. On Monday morning,two leaked lists circulated on social media, one naming Rodri as the winner and the other awarding the prize to Vinicius. Speculation regarding the outcome onlyfuelled further uncertainty. The final clue came at the airports: while Rodri landed in Paris without incident, Madrid opted to remain grounded, citing a lack of confidence in their chances of winning. Despite these developments, doubts lingered throughout the day at the Théâtre du Châtelet.Rodri was cautious about getting his hopes up, even though many believed he was destined to win. He remained in the dark;no one officially informed himor his entourage about their winning status prior to the event, so he sat in his seat, waiting for the announcement. France Football’s shift in strategy created a sense of unease and infused the craziest 24 hours of the Ballon d’Or in recent memory with uncertainty. Ultimately,Rodri emerged as the winner, while Madrid chose to stay at home, lacking sufficient confidence in their success. However, the votes were counted, and the results were definitive: the trophy was going to the Spaniard.

Rodri avoids social media and is eager to go back to Man City

Back stage at the Theatre du Chatelet. Almost unreasonably dark and something charmingly dingy about the narrow corridor where actors run between scenes and opera singers rest on those huge studio cases for breathers. Back stage at the Theatre du Chatelet. Almost unreasonably dark and something charmingly dingy about the narrow corridor where actors run between scenes and opera singers rest on those huge studio cases for breathers. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/87/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcg0RuAJclLAAC2THD1Phs794.jpg It feels thin, this thoroughfare. A squeeze. There are tens of people within the orbit of the world’s greatest footballer. Rodri is engulfed by bodies ensuring a safe passage out onto the emptying red carpet and balmy Paris streets at the end of a night when his life changed forever. Dim blue spotlights are preventing complete darkness and the 19th century four-tiered playhouse on the bank of the Seine is, in its own way, a suitable host for Rodri’s ascent to immortality. In thrall to traditionalism, making it work in a changing world. Looked at in awe while refusing to conform. Rodri is ready to go. Earlier in the night, he has appeared overcome with brief paralysis when George Weah read his name from an envelope. He sighs deeply before delivering an acceptance speech in Spanish. He’s had to talk about himself endlessly, and although this particular success gives him personal pride, it is never a favoured pastime. Now it is one minute until midnight. The shimmering Ballon d’Or trophy is actually nowhere to be seen; presumably somebody among the melee is keeping it safe somewhere. ‘I’m really scared to open my phone,’ Rodri tells Mail Sport. ‘I’m going to be spending a month answering people.’ https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/87/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWcg0RuAA4fJAADqBqOO1IU848.jpg https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/87/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcg0RuAIECcAADq2XQ9gaU984.jpg He wants to board the bus to his hotel with girlfriend Laura on their eighth anniversary and his family, to belt out 'Rodri’s on fire' in peace. He soon got his chance for more of that at the Siena restaurant with loved ones and City staff, just as his first club, Villarreal, were lighting up Estadi de la Ceramica to commemorate the triumph. Messages flood in – most notably from a couple of neighbours. Ilkay Gundogan writes a heartfelt post on social media, labelling him a perfect midfielder and revelling in this award not always ending up in the hands of an attacker. Rodri is the first defensive midfielder ever to win, while Gundogan’s wife, Sara, says how a ‘really good person, humble and kind’ is richly deserving of the highest accolade. It is hard not to wonder whether her comments are in someway shaped by Real Madrid refusing to show after becoming suspicious that Vinicius Junior may come a mere second behind a man who went 74 consecutive Manchester City matches unbeaten. Those are the two topics of intrigue to the night. Real’s tempestuous boycott, which drew criticism from the Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente and left Vincent Garcia, the head of organisers France Football ‘unpleasantly surprised’. And why a No 6 has enchanted voters from across the globe. Rodri believes the goals added to his game over the years have helped enormously yet still, this is a man who plays with his shirt tucked in and doesn’t do social media. He doesn’t really go for fashionable, has his style mercilessly mocked by team-mates and is generally at odds with the glitz of Ballon d’Or night. He will always be the man who drove a second-hand Corsa while starring in La Liga. Eventually upgrading to an Audi at City – what decadence - has probably gnawed away at him. If this award isn’t for him, equally he isn’t typically for it either. ‘I was in love with that deep midfield role as a kid,’ he says. ‘There were many players, like Bussy (Sergio Busquets), like Xabi Alonso. This is why I decided to play this role. My aim is that of course I’m not the same player, I try to do it my own way, but I wish the little kids who watch me want to be the same. I think that’s the most important thing in football, trying to translate to the kids. ‘I avoided social media, I didn’t need it. For me I understood how it could waste my time. I focused on what I wanted. But I don’t want everyone to follow the same steps as me. I understand others use it with the same results.’ Fame – rising exponentially since that winner in 2023’s Champions League final – doesn’t appear especially easy for him to deal with. He doesn’t look at that platform with relish, although is becoming spokesman-like on issues surrounding player welfare. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/87/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWcg0RuAEpoCAAChqaS9WSM885.jpg https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/87/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcg0RqAZ4CVAADBs2228VI723.jpg And as success grows, he is giving little bits up to piece together a story of a life up to this point. An achievement of this magnitude offers an opportunity for reflection – aided somewhat by a double knee injury that will keep him out for the season – and there is a story he offers of the first few months during his time at Villarreal that gives a window into self-doubt he has coached out of himself. The sort of self-doubt he had to ignore when critics couldn’t envisage him taking over from Fernandinho as Pep Guardiola’s destroyer a season into life at City, categorising him as too slow. Now his brain is the quickest in the business. ‘When I was 17, I left home with my suitcases to Villarreal to live a dream,’ he recalls. ‘I called my dad crying telling him that it was all over, I had the feeling that this was the end and my father said I’d come all that way and told me to keep going. That changed my mindset. Here I am, a normal kid. ‘I remember that exact moment when I took my luggage, travelled away from the family house alone. Those moments you need to be resilient. I wasn’t performing well. I was 17 and you know, at that age, there is a guy (Lamine Yamal) who was nominated for the Ballon d’Or. 'And I was playing in the second or third division. I really thought my time was coming to an end. That call to my father was important. Now is when you remember those kind of things, the things people don’t know.’ What too has only recently emerged is how Rodri learned English: at a summer camp in the Connecticut woods, eating s’mores and chucking American footballs around as a 14-year-old. Apparently his bunkmates spotted him playing in La Liga on the TV years later and have followed his career since. One wrote a letter to him over the past month, which knocked Rodri for six. In a positive sense, unlike the ACL and meniscus problems. Earlier at the ceremony, Rodri is struggling with the steps as the nominees walk out in pairs. He’s nervously faffing with his bowtie. Didier Drogba, hosting the evening, goes to help him up once Weah reads out the winning name. Weah then presents the golden trophy to him, rather than allowing him to collect – as women's winner Aitana Bonmati has done. The black crutches are regularly taken by whoever is closest and, once the tickertape comes down and there is time for more casual photographs on stage, City’s security staff are scouring the area to see exactly where they’ve been placed. They are eventually found and Rodri is philosophical about the next eight months or so, knowing that not doing this rehabilitation properly, cutting corners, will set him back further. ‘It’s obviously a bad injury and the first time in my career that I have to switch on to recover and not hurry to come back,’ he says. ‘I know how important it is to recover well with the amount of games we have. It would be a mistake to come back sooner just because I want to hurry up. The team is doing great, they are together and being resilient.’ They remain unbeaten without him yet there have been some hairy moments. Rodri’s watching them all from his sofa. ‘They definitely made me feel desperate with the game at Wolves,’ Rodri laughs. ‘I was at home and very close to start running!’ A long road ahead requires navigating before that is a possibility, but this Monday night in Paris is one to savour.

Man United's pursuit of Ruben Amorim is waved through by rivals Man City

Manchester United target Ruben Amorim has not been among the names considered by Man City as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola, Mail Sport understands.The Red Devils entered talks with Sporting Lisbon on Monday for Amorim, as the club seeks a swift appointment following the sacking of Erik ten Hag. Manchester United target Ruben Amorim has not been among the names considered by Man City as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola, Mail Sport understands. The Red Devils entered talks with Sporting Lisbon on Monday for Amorim, as the club seeks a swift appointment following the sacking of Erik ten Hag. It is understood that Amorim was planning to leave Sporting at the end of the season, but was made aware of United’s interest earlier this month and has had two rounds of talks. The 39-year-old has also been linked with reigning Premier League champions Man City if Guardiola opts to leave the club in the summer at the end of his contract. Mail Sport understands Amorim is not under consideration, despite his relationship with Hugo Viana. Man City agreed a deal earlier this month for Viana, a former Newcastle midfielder, to take over as sporting director at the end of the season. He will succeed Txiki Begiristain when the renowned sporting director steps down at Man City. Viana has held the same role at Sporting and made the key decision to pay more than £10million to take Amorim from Braga in 2020. The decision has been seen as the catalyst for their spell of dominance in Portugal in recent seasons. Despite a belief in Portugal that Amorim and Viana would link-up again in England, it is understood Man City prefer for their next coach to align to Guardiola and Begiristain's style of play. Amorim had played down suggestions he could follow Viana to Man City earlier this month. 'We didn't talk about that because they are two completely different paths,' he said. 'I know that people made that connection. Viana's path is Viana's path. My path is my path. 'We only have a professional relationship that won't last forever, but it's certain that the friendship will last.' The 39-year-old is said to be 'wedded' to his 3-4-3 formation which he has adopted with great success at Sporting. Sporting have won two league titles under Amorim and have won nine successive matches at the start of this domestic season. The Portuguese giants are also eighth in the early Champions League table after making an unbeaten start to the competition. Amorim's side have beaten Lille and Sturm Graz in the league phase of the competition, as well as drawing with PSV. Sporting face Man City in their next Champions League match on November 5. Mail Sport revealed last week that Amorim was one of four targets if Ten Hag was axed, and United announced on Monday morning that the Dutchman’s two-and-a-half-year reign at Old Trafford was over. His assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy has been put in temporary charge, but United swiftly opened talks with Amorim and Sporting over triggering the £8.5millon release clause in his contract in Portugal. The 39-year-old, who was interviewed over the managerial vacancies at Liverpool and West Ham earlier this year, is said to be open to a move to Old Trafford. Asked about the links to United in the wake of Ten Hag’s sacking, he said on Monday: ‘I was already expecting this question and obviously I’m not going to talk about the future, because otherwise I’ll always have to comment. I’m very proud to be Sporting coach, that’s all.’ United took the decision to sack Ten Hag with the club lying 14th in the Premier League following Sunday’s defeat at West Ham, and in the bottom half of the Europa League. He was summoned to a meeting with chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth at Carrington on Monday morning and informed of the decision. The 54-year-old Dutchman, who is expected to receive up to £15m in compensation, flew to Holland on a private jet around lunchtime.

Kompany aiming to right Bayern's DFB-Pokal wrongs against Mainz

Vincent Kompany insisted Bayern Munich's DFB-Pokal second round tie against Mainz is "just as important as a final", with the aim of improving their cup record.Bayern have struggled in previous editions of the tournament, losing to Holstein Kiel, Borussia Monchengladbach and Saarbrucken in the second round in three of the last four editions. Vincent Kompany insisted Bayern Munich's DFB-Pokal second round tie against Mainz is "just as important as a final", with the aim of improving their cup record. Bayern have struggled in previous editions of the tournament, losing to Holstein Kiel, Borussia Monchengladbach and Saarbrucken in the second round in three of the last four editions. The 20-time champions of the competition reached the quarter-finals against Freiburg in 2022-23 - their best run since winning the title against Bayer Leverkusen in 2020. Wednesday's fixture offers the chance for Bayern to improve their DFB-Pokal record, though Kompany was not underestimating Mainz's threat. "We cannot change the past," Kompany told a press conference. "Now it is about what we can deliver tomorrow. "That is where our entire focus is on. I have a lot of faith in the team." "In my mentality there is no ranking (of competitions)," Kompany added. "It is always only about the next game. "For us it is as important as a final because it is the next game and we want to win it and we will do everything to be successful. "Mainz are strong in one-on-one (situations) and try to put pressure on with their compact game," Kompany added. "It is a Cup game and no easy task. It is important that we keep at it." Kompany led his side back to winning ways in the Bundesliga at the weekend with a 5-0 thrashing of Bochum after losing to Barcelona in the Champions League. Barca's 4-1 triumph ended a run of six games without a win against Bayern in the competition, leaving Kompany's men with three points from their first three games. But victory over Bochum ensured they remained ahead of RB Leipzig on goal difference at the Bundesliga summit. Kompany has seen his team net 12 goals in their last three matches, and was happy with the players' response to their midweek humbling against Barca. "We remained calm and worked on the details to get better," Kompany said of his team's efforts last week. "That is the way it is now as well. Our goal is to take that next step."

Gabriel Jesus, who has experience playing alongside exceptional talents such as Phil Foden and Cole Palmer at Manchester City, is now committed to mentoring Arsenal's rising star, Ethan Nwaneri, to help him reach his full potential. The Brazilian forward has recognized the 17-year-old's prodigious abilities and is eager to guide him on his journey to the pinnacle of football.

In a recent match, Nwaneri demonstrated his exceptional skill by scoring a stunning goal in Arsenal's 3-0 victory over Preston in the Carabao Cup. Jesus acknowledges that Nwaneri may need to exercise patience, much like Foden did during his early days at Manchester City, but is enthusiastic about the young player's future. Jesus shared his thoughts, saying, "I've been around some incredibly gifted young players, including Phil, Cole, and James McAtee at City, who is also very talented. Seeing Ethan in training and in matches is a pleasure for me, as I am a football enthusiast. When I encounter a young player with such quality, I am delighted and naturally, I want to see him develop further." The Arsenal prodigy made history as the youngest-ever Premier League player at 15 years and 181 days, surpassing the previous record held by Harvey Elliott. Furthermore, at 17 years and 223 days, Nwaneri became the youngest Arsenal player to score in his first two starts for the club, breaking Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's previous record. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, believes Nwaneri is ready for more regular playtime, although he has a plethora of talented players to select from. Jesus advises Nwaneri to look up to last season's PFA Player of the Year, Foden, for inspiration if he ever feels impatient about waiting for his chance. Jesus commented, "I've seen players like Phil waiting for their opportunity, and now look at him; he's one of the best players in the world. So, I hope Ethan stays grounded, works hard, and it's only a matter of time before he shines." In addition to discussing Nwaneri's development, Jesus also addressed his own 274-day goal drought, which he ended by scoring the opening goal in the 3-0 win at Deepdale. The £45 million forward admits that the wait was long but insists there were underlying reasons for it, citing reduced playing time and injuries as factors. Jesus concluded by stating his renewed focus on scoring goals, saying, "Now, I am more goal-oriented and more focused on shooting. I am looking to score goals, and it's great to be back on the scoresheet. I want to keep scoring whenever I get the chance. I am here to work hard, stay fit, and when I have the opportunity, enjoy playing football and contribute to the team's victories."

Lautaro Martinez, the captain of Inter Milan, expressed his deep appreciation for Lionel Messi's endorsement for the Ballon d'Or, an accolade he believes should have been awarded to him. In an interview with Icon Magazine, Martinez stated, "It is an immense honor to have the greatest player in history hold such a high opinion of me." He also mentioned his satisfaction with being considered for the prestigious award, which he sees as an acknowledgment of his exceptional performance with both his national team and club.

Martinez further shared his joy in being nominated among the top candidates, indicating that it validates his successful season with Argentina and Inter Milan. Reflecting on his personal growth, he noted, "I have matured both as an individual and as a footballer. When I first came to Italy, I was a 20-year-old youth, and over the past six years, I have become a husband and a father. These life experiences have contributed to my development on the field, and I am proud to have assumed the role of captain for Inter." Lautaro Martinez, the skipper of Inter Milan, has voiced his gratitude for Lionel Messi's support in the recenton Ball d'Or selection process. "Being recognized by the all-time great is a tremendous honor," Martinez expressed in an interview with Icon Magazine. "I am thrilled to be listed among the nominees, as it signifies the outstanding season I've had with both my national team and Inter Milan. "I've grown as a person and a player. "Arriving in Italy at the age of 20, I've evolved into a father and a husband during these past six years. These milestones have helped me enhance my game, and I am honored to be the captain of Inter."

'It's up to them' - Guardiola understands Madrid's Ballon d'Or boycott

Pep Guardiola understands Real Madrid's decision to boycott Monday's Ballon d'Or ceremony, insisting "it's up to them".Rodri scooped the top award in Paris after helping Manchester City win an unprecedented fourth successive Premier League title, while he was part of Spain's victorious squad at Euro 2024. Pep Guardiola understands Real Madrid's decision to boycott Monday's Ballon d'Or ceremony, insisting "it's up to them". Rodri scooped the top award in Paris after helping Manchester City win an unprecedented fourth successive Premier League title, while he was part of Spain's victorious squad at Euro 2024. The central midfielder's importance is highlighted by the fact City have not tasted defeat in any of the 34 Premier League games in which he has featured this year. Rodri pipped Vinicius Junior to the accolade, with the winger and his club sparking controversy by not attending after finding out he would not be winning. The Madrid winger scored 24 goals and provided 11 assists last season, as Los Blancos won a LaLiga and Champions League double. Guardiola empathises with Vinicius, who he feels was also deserving of the award, but highlighted other notable recent examples where the result could have gone either way. "It's up to them," the Citizens boss said. "If they want to congratulate, that's fine. If not, that's fine as well. At Manchester City, we are not here to judge other clubs on what they decide they have to do. "Last year, for example, Erling [Haaland] won the Treble, scored more than 50 goals. I said to him: 'just being there, you have to be so happy'. I said the same to Rodri. If you are in the first two, three or four, it's exceptional. You have to be so satisfied. "Last season, should Erling have won? Yes. Should Messi have won? Yes. It's not important [who wins]. It represents that you and your team-mates have done something really nice that season. "Should it be Vinicius? Maybe. It's [voted by] journalists, you know, not an elite group of people who decide. It's [people] all around the world that vote, not just one country. There are different opinions, and that's what makes football nice, no? "Of course, if [Vinicius] won, it would have been more than deserved. The same with Erling [Haaland] last year. It will be really open. There will be more chance to win." Guardiola also paid tribute to Rodri, who became only the third different Spanish winner of the Ballon d'Or after Alfredo di Stefano (1957 and 1959) and Luis Suarez (1960). The midfielder was also the first Spaniard to make the top three since Andres Iniesta finished third in 2012, with the City head coach acknowledging the dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. "Rodri made an incredible speech," Guardiola added. "He spoke about family, Man City and Spanish football. "In the last decade, Spanish football has made such a difference - they've won a World Cup, a Euros - and Spain were never able to win this award before. Their importance in the last 10 or 15 years has been so important. "I remember once we nominated three players from La Masia. Xavi and Iniesta couldn't win it because Messi's a monster and nobody could beat him - just Cristiano [Ronaldo]. He's a monster and the father of the monster is Messi."

Introducing The Radar, a Sky Sports feature where Nick Wright combines statistical insights with expert commentary to highlight significant narratives across the Premier League. This edition covers:

Jackson's Impressive Scoring Record at Chelsea Nicolas Jackson has already surpassed the 20-goal mark for Chelsea in the Premier League, a feat accomplished in just 44 games. This places him among the top five players who have reached this milestone in fewer appearances, outpacing even Didier Drogba, who required 50 games to achieve the same. At the tender age of 23, Jackson's scoring efficiency not only highlights his immediate value but also his promising future, especially when compared to Drogba's career trajectory at a similar age. Despite his young age, Jackson has shown significant development since joining from Villarreal. He managed the pressure of being Chelsea's primary striker last season and has seen his performance improve further in the current campaign. Among the current players, only Cole Palmer, Mohamed Salah, Erling Haaland, and Bukayo Saka have been involved in more goals. Jackson's productivity has nearly doubled, with his goal or assist rate per minute on the pitch dropping from 148 to 77. This increase in efficiency is a testament to his growth and the impact he has on matches. Werner's Underrated Contributions at Spurs Timo Werner has had a slow start to the season, but his goal in Tottenham's 2-1 Carabao Cup victory over Manchester City marked a turning point. Despite his goal tally being modest, Werner's work rate and off-the-ball movement are invaluable assets to Spurs. His defensive work and ability to create space for teammates are reminiscent of Roberto Firmino's style of play. Werner's selfless running in the final third is highlighted by tracking data, which shows that he averages more off-the-ball runs per game than any player except Firmino over the past five seasons. This attribute not only creates scoring opportunities for himself but also for his teammates. Manchester City's susceptibility to Fast Breaks Manchester City's defense has been vulnerable to fast breaks, as evidenced by their Carabao Cup loss to Tottenham. The team has allowed more shots from fast breaks than any other Premier League side, a significant increase from last season. The absence of Rodri and Kyle Walker has been felt, with the latter's recovery pace being crucial in dealing with such threats. Walker's advancing age and fitness issues have made him less effective in handling fast breaks, which could lead to further issues against teams like Bournemouth, who are known for their counter-attacking prowess. Upcoming Sky Sports Broadcasts Don't miss the upcoming Premier League action on Sky Sports, including Crystal Palace vs. Wolves, Tottenham vs. Aston Villa, Manchester United vs. Chelsea, and Fulham vs. Brentford.

Amorim outfoxed Arteta with tactical display… but lost to Erik ten Hag twice

MANCHESTER UNITED managerial target Ruben Amorim already has experience of getting the better of some of the Premier League's top managers.The Sporting Lisbon boss appears to be in pole position to replace Erik ten Hag in the Old Trafford hot-seat, after the Dutchman was sacked on Monday. MANCHESTER UNITED managerial target Ruben Amorim already has experience of getting the better of some of the Premier League's top managers. The Sporting Lisbon boss appears to be in pole position to replace Erik ten Hag in the Old Trafford hot-seat, after the Dutchman was sacked on Monday. Amorim may have never managed in the Premier League, but his tactics have already come up trumps against some of the division's best managers. Most notably, his Sporting side saw off Mikel Arteta's Arsenal in the Europa League last 16 in 2023. Sporting knocked the Gunners out of Europe with some intelligent tactics that pushed Arteta's side to the limit and ultimately knocked them out on penalties. Amorim's side managed a draw in both fixtures, a 2-2 game at home and a 1-1 effort at the Emirates. And although they didn't win in regulation time, it was Amorim's tactics that impressed the most. Sporting played with a back three when in possession to throw numbers forward and allow Marcus Edwards time to shine. Before dropping into a back five when the Gunners attacked, stunting the efforts of Arsenal's forward line by keeping their shape and stepping up towards the half-way line. And there was a familiar face pulling the strings and orchestrating the rotations in the middle of the park for Sporting in the second leg too - Man Utd's summer arrival Manuel Ugarte. Ugarte, alongside Pedro Goncalves, continuously rotated in and out of position to drag Arsenal's players out of place and create pockets to play into. However, Ugarte was sent off for two yellow card offences later in the game. But it's not just Arteta that Amorim has experience against with the 39-year-old taking on a number of other Premier League bosses. The gaffer found himself facing Oliver Glasner's Eintracht Frankfurt side in the Champions League back in 2022 - winning one game 3-0 and losing the other 2-1. Glasner is now the Crystal Palace manager. While Amorim's tactics against Pep Guardiola have also had mixed returns, earning a 0-0 draw with Man City in the Champions League round of 16 and also losing 5-0 in the other leg. Perhaps the most concerning thing about Amorim's record against Premier League managers is his efforts when he took on Erik ten Hag. Going head to head with Ten Hag's Ajax side in 2021 saw Amorim's Sporting concedeNINE GOALSin two games. The Portuguese side lost 5-1 and 4-2 to Ajax, against a team that featured now-Man Utd stars such as Antony, Lisandro Martinez and Noussair Mazraoui. Amorim has also faced Tottenham during his time as Sporting manager, winning 2-0 and drawing 1-1 to a Spurs side managed by Antonio Conte.

Pep Guardiola says he feels 'so sorry' for Erik ten Hag after his sacking

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his sympathy for Erik ten Hag after the Dutchman was sacked by Manchester United on Monday.Ten Hag was dismissed as United manager with his side 14th in the Premier League table, having finished eighth last season. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed his sympathy for Erik ten Hag after the Dutchman was sacked by Manchester United on Monday. Ten Hag was dismissed as United manager with his side 14th in the Premier League table, having finished eighth last season. Guardiola's City faced off against United seven times during Ten Hag's 29-month reign at Old Trafford. City won four of those games - including a 6-3 victory in October 2022 - but United famously beat their neighbours 2-1 in the final of last season's FA Cup. Speaking on Tuesday, Guardiola had some kind words for his former rival. 'Always I feel sorry for managers [when they are sacked], you know?' Guardiola said at a press conference. 'He's lost his position, so I'm so sorry for him. 'I have a good, I think incredible relationship [with him]. I think he represented Manchester United at the highest level in terms of behaviours, of course. 'Our job as managers is one of the few jobs – in all the jobs in the world – where people are expecting to be sacked. People are expecting you don't have a job. 'I don't see architects or doctors or teachers or anything... the people deciding [their futures don't say]: "Get out." It's only us. It's our job, we have to accept it. Guardiola went on to predict that Ten Hag will 'come back stronger'. The Spaniard added: 'I wish him all the best, he and his family, and of course he's going to come back stronger. 'He knows, I know, everybody knows: our job depends on the results. The results are not good enough. 'I'm saying that, and even myself, I'm not an exception. If the results are not good, there isn't anything that can sustain it. Our job, unfortunately, is as simple as that. You have to get results. 'If you are [there] because you are handsome, or because you [speak well], or have good relationships with the hierarchies, forget about it. 'I have an incredible relationship with my hierarchy, but if I didn't get results, I wouldn't be here. This is a business, and when you become a manager, you have to know it.' Guardiola has been in charge at Man City since July 2016. His current contract is due to expire in June next year.

Ruben Amorim's Cryptic Reply Hints at Excitement for Man Utd Role

During a press conference on Thursday, Ruben Amorim, the current Sporting Lisbon manager, offered a brief but revealing response when questioned about his potential move to Manchester United. With Erik ten Hag's departure from Old Trafford, Amorim is poised to take over, and his one-word answer to a question about the Premier League spoke volumes about his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. Despite his attempts to be discreet, Amorim's excitement was evident when he was queried about his views on the English top-flight league, to which he succinctly replied with a smile, "Everything." Amorim, who is currently in discussions with Manchester United regarding the terms of his move, including the £8.3 million release clause and the additional costs to bring his coaching staff, was cautious with his words during the media interaction before Sporting's match against Estrela da Amadora. The 39-year-old, who has led Sporting to two Primeira Liga championships since his arrival from Braga, is set to become the first managerial appointment under the new leadership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe at Manchester United. While he was tight-lipped about the specifics of the negotiations, he acknowledged the complexity of such a transfer, stating, "It's a negotiation between two clubs. It's never easy. Even with the clauses, they have to talk." He promised clarity after the upcoming game, saying, "We will have clarification after the game. It will be very clear, so it's one more day. After the game tomorrow, we will have the decision made." Manchester United, who recently triumphed over Leicester 5-2 in the Carabao Cup under the interim management of Ruud Van Nistelrooy, had hoped to expedite Amorim's arrival for the weekend's match against Chelsea. However, due to a 30-day notice period in Amorim's contract with Sporting, further negotiations were necessary. The two clubs have agreed on a £10 million fee for Amorim to join immediately during the international break, allowing him to complete three more matches for Sporting, including a Champions League match against Manchester City. Amorim is then expected to start his tenure at Manchester United from November 11, with his first match in charge scheduled for November 24 at Ipswich Town. United defender Diogo Dalot commented on the potential appointment, saying, "Obviously, he is a good manager. We do not know if he's coming or not, we see the rumors like everybody, but we will focus on what we have here. Doing our job. What the future brings, we will be ready."

Former Manchester United defender Phil Jones has spoken out for the first time regarding the club's decision to dismiss Erik ten Hag, suggesting that the Dutch coach may have grown 'frustrated' in his final months at Old Trafford. The 54-year-old's departure was confirmed after months of conjecture, a period in which United's Premier League standing plummeted to 14th.

Phil Jones has opened up about Erik ten Hag's departure from Manchester United, hinting that the manager might have grown 'frustrated' in his final months at Old Trafford. The 54-year-old's departure was confirmed after months of conjecture, a period in which United's Premier League standing plummeted to 14th. Phil Jones has opened up about Erik ten Hag's departure from Manchester United, hinting that the manager might have grown 'frustrated' in his final months at Old Trafford. The 54-year-old's departure was confirmed after months of conjecture, a period in which United's Premier League standing plummeted to 14th. The situation escalated last week as United's lackluster Europa League campaign continued with a tumultuous 1-1 draw against Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce, followed by a last-minute loss to West Ham on Sunday. United is reportedly focusing on Ruben Amorim as ten Hag's replacement, with Sporting Lisbon announcing on Tuesday that the club intends to trigger the €10million (£8.5m) release clause to free the manager from his contract. Jones, who found himself sidelined by Ten Hag upon his arrival in 2022, shared his views on the manager's exit and his experience playing under him in an interview with BBC's Planet Premier League. He stated: 'I went out onto the pitch knowing it was my last training session, so it's hard for me to understand what he was saying. 'He's very proud of his achievements at Ajax and believes in his ability to make good decisions. 'I don't believe he's overly concerned with public opinion on his decisions, but towards the end of his time at United, it seemed he grew frustrated with the questioning, as evidenced by his repeated emphasis on winning two trophies.' Jones indicated that United's struggles, which began after Sir Alex Ferguson's departure in 2013, extend beyond the manager. 'Looking back to Sir Alex Ferguson's era, the philosophy was if you score four, we'll score five; if you score three, we'll score four. That was our focus. 'We've lost a lot of our identity over the years and have been drifting further from where we need to be. 'Observing the people at the training ground daily, those who have left the club... They are the backbone of the football club. They understand it deeply. 'The approach must return to fundamentals. While we all desire fast, attacking football with plenty of excitement in the stadium, we may need to start from scratch, focusing on being solid, compact, and difficult to beat.

Arsenal reject ambitious transfer offer for Jesus: 'The subject is closed'

Arsenal have rejected an approach from Brazilian side Palmeiras for Gabriel Jesus.Jesus is yet to score in 11 appearances for the Gunners this season and has completed 90 minutes just once. He has fallen behind Kai Havertz in the pecking order and has been relegated to a role as a late substitute in the Premier League. But Mikel Arteta considers the struggling striker an important part of his squad. Arsenal have rejected an approach from Brazilian side Palmeiras for Gabriel Jesus. Jesus is yet to score in 11 appearances for the Gunners this season and has completed 90 minutes just once. He has fallen behind Kai Havertz in the pecking order and has been relegated to a role as a late substitute in the Premier League. But Mikel Arteta considers the struggling striker an important part of his squad. There has been plenty of speculation about his future, with reports from Brazil suggesting that Arsenal could be tempted to sell in January if their valuation - claimed to be in the region of £33.4m - is met. Jesus is under contract with Arsenal until June 2027 and appears keen to stay and fight for his place as the team challenge for the Premier League title. It seems that the feeling between club and player is mutual, judging by comments from Palmeiras president Leila Pereira, who had been keen to bring Jesus back to the club where he started his career in 2015. “Gabriel Jesus is not coming,” Pereira told ESPN. “We got in touch with Arsenal, and they said ‘Leila, there are no conditions whatsoever. We are not going to negotiate on the player.’ "The subject is closed.” Jesus came through Palmeiras’ youth ranks and spent two years playing for the Sao Paulo club before earning a move to Manchester City in 2017. He won four Premier League titles, the FA Cup and three Carabao Cups with City before Arsenal shelled out £45m to sign him in the summer of 2022. The Brazilian striker had a promising debut campaign, but netted just eight times in 2023/24 and an injury in pre-season derailed his start to the current season. The only time he has completed 90 minutes came in a 5-1 thrashing of Bolton in the Carabao Cup, but more opportunities should be on the horizon, with a trip to Preston coming on Wednesday in the same competition. "He came on in a great shape, probably in the best condition he's been with us," Arteta explained earlier this month. "He was flying in pre-season and unfortunately he got that injury straight away that affected him for a few weeks. "He put again a lot of work into it to come back and now he needs to get the rhythm. He's playing a few games, he's started two games in a row vs Atalanta and Bolton, he's come on against Southampton. "So yeah, he's there. Now he needs to earn the right to play more. He's got our full support, he's a player that can play in various positions and he's a really important player for us."

The 'next Jose Mourinho' with a wife who gave up engineering to follow his dream

It has been a dramatic 24 hours at Manchester United, with the Red Devils closing in on appointing a new manager after sacking Erik ten Hag on Monday morning.Ten Hag was relieved of his duties following a disastrous start to the season that saw United lose four of their opening nine league games while also failing to register a win in Europe. It has been a dramatic 24 hours at Manchester United, with the Red Devils closing in on appointing a new manager after sacking Erik ten Hag on Monday morning. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/87/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcg0GiARxiKAAFPw1pS6co798.jpg Ten Hag was relieved of his duties following a disastrous start to the season that saw United lose four of their opening nine league games while also failing to register a win in Europe. United have moved quickly to find his successor, with Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim, 39, reportedly agreeing to take over in a move that will double his salary to £5m-a-year. But what do we know about the man edging nearer to the Old Trafford hotseat? Switching Lisbon for Manchester promises to be a big move for Amorim, but he can count on having the full support of his wife, Maria Joao Diogo. Amorim and Maria married in 2013, and their relationship was put to the test early on when he opted to leave the club he supported as a boy, Benfica, to join Qatari side Al-Wakrah two years later. Maria had forged her own successful career while Amorim was carving out his path in football, achieving a degree in telecommunications engineering before setting up her own interior design business, Dois Tons. She decided to temporarily leave her career behind to join Amorim in the Middle East, and he has spoken fondly of their time together in Qatar, but conceded it was far from plain sailing for the couple. 'I had never played abroad, I had travelled abroad, but I hadn't played,' he explained. 'Qatar, to live in, for the family, is a spectacular country. People have no idea of the quality of life you have in Qatar. It is very family-oriented... If I had to choose to live with my family, I would go to Qatar. 'My wife came to see me, I went ahead to take care of things. She asked me what kind of clothes I could take, where we could live, if it was traditional or not. I told her to take a certain type of clothing and she came there and said to me: "Ruben, I didn't bring clothes to wear here." For now, it was very hot and I told you to be more covered up. When we started investigating, it seemed like they opened the doors. 'There were certain things that confused me: things were not certain, it was always tomorrow. I spent six months in a hotel room with my wife. [When it was time to go to a house] , they were always saying 'Insha'Allah tomorrow' ['Tomorrow, God willing'].' Amorim's stay in Qatar was short-lived, as he returned to Portugal in 2016 before hanging up his boots. From there, his coaching career began, and it could be argued that his move to United has been six years in the making. Back in 2018, Amorim completed a performance internship under Jose Mourinho at United as he got an early taste for life in Manchester. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/87/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWcg0GiAOUhLAADGTkn7mBI767.jpg The pair posed for a photo together at Carrington, and Amorim has made no secret of his admiration for his fellow countryman. When asked in 2021 about the influence Mourinho has had on his career, Amorim told reporters: 'My reference has always been Jose Mourinho'. They share similar philosophies, with Amorim revealing his mentality earlier this year when he said: 'I identify more with the other side, more thinking about how I am going to beat the opponent and how I am going to try to make sure they do not score goals.' Mourinho has always been a serial winner, even triumphing in the EFL Cup and Europa League during a difficult two-year spell at United between 2016 and 2018. Amorim has followed his lead, guiding Sporting to two league titles in the last three years after they had previously gone almost two decades without winning their domestic league. But he is not just a football-mad manager. In fact, before embarking on a professional football career, Amorim started out as an ice hockey player. He enjoyed skating as a youngster and practised the sport in Alverca do Ribatejo, a region to the north of Portugal's capital, Lisbon. More than 20 years have passed since then, and Amorim has now turned his hand to another sport - kickboxing - to help take his mind away from the stresses of football. Videos and images have been posted online of him in the gym on the punchbag as he looks to improve his craft, although he has admitted he is by no means the finished article. Reflecting on his love for kickboxing, Amorim said: 'It’s a hobby. I’m not very good at it but I occupy my time as I like. 'I hate running, I think I’ve run a lot during my career. I find other moments to relieve the pressure.' Yet football is his main priority, and he has shown he is not afraid to take on new challenges in the past. Amorim has managed three clubs to date - Casa Pia, Braga and Sporting - but has never coached outside of his homeland. That could be all about to change if he takes the United job, but Amorim's wife has made a big sacrifice to move to another country before, and could do so again to help him settle into life in Manchester. There is no guarantee that Amorim will be able to turn things around at Old Trafford, but he appears to have the ideal work-life balance and support network in place to give him the best chance to succeed in the toughest job in football.

Mourinho fails knee-slide celebration after Amrabat's 102nd-minute winner

Footage has emerged of Jose Mourinho hilariously failing in a knee slide attempt when celebrating Sofyan Amrabat's 102nd-minute winner as Fenerbahce beat Trabzonspor in Turkey.The match seemed destined for a draw after goals from former Manchester United midfielder Fred, and Edin Dzeko, levelled the game at 2-2 heading into the 12th minute of stoppage time. Footage has emerged of Jose Mourinho hilariously failing in a knee slide attempt when celebrating Sofyan Amrabat's 102nd-minute winner as Fenerbahce beat Trabzonspor in Turkey. The match seemed destined for a draw after goals from former Manchester United midfielder Fred, and Edin Dzeko, levelled the game at 2-2 heading into the 12th minute of stoppage time. However, as all hope seemed lost fellow ex-United man Amrabat found the top corner with the last kick of the game. The Fenerbahce bench went berserk in celebration with Jose Mourinho running onto the pitch to perform his signature knee slide. This time, however, unlike during his days at Porto and Real Madrid, the 61-year-old did not execute it and he face planted into the grass before being mobbed by players and staff. The match was not without controversy as the referee was scrutinised for a number of decisions he made during the match. In his post-match interview with Bein Sports, Mourinho voiced his displeasure at many of the decisions and the system in Turkey, even stating he would not have taken the Fenerbahce job if he was aware of the standard of refereeing. 'The man of the match was Atilla Karaoglan,' claimed Jose Mourinho. 'The invisible man. The referee on the field is just a child. Atilla Karaoglan is the man of the match. 'We don't want to see him in our matches again. We don't want him as a VAR either. We don't want him on the field either. Before I came here, I was told a lot of things and I didn't believe it. It was even worse.' And while Mourinho was happy with the result, he kept his focus on the system in Turkey, and how much he dislikes it. 'We faced a good team and they fought well, but we are playing against the system,' he continued. 'I speak on behalf of all Fenerbahce fans when I say this. That's why we had a joyful celebration. We won against very, very strong people. We will not give up. I am angry with the Fenerbahce managers who brought me here, they told me half of this. 'If they told me the whole thing, I would not come to Fenerbahce. They told me half of the story before I came. If they told me the whole thing, I would not come if I knew.'

Former Manchester United defender Phil Jones has spoken out regarding the club's decision to dismiss Erik ten Hag, suggesting that the Dutch coach may have grown increasingly frustrated during his final days at Old Trafford. Ten Hag's tenure came to an end after a period of intense speculation that saw Manchester United's Premier League standing plummet to 14th place.

Jones, who found himself marginalized by Ten Hag following his arrival in 2022, shared his perspective on the manager's departure and his experience playing under him in an interview with BBC's Planet Premier League. He remarked, "I think he's very proud of what he did at Ajax and I think he backed himself to make good decisions." However, Jones also acknowledged that towards the end of Ten Hag's time at United, he might have become "a bit irritated by people questioning him." The ex-United player pointed out that Manchester United's struggles began well before Ten Hag's arrival, tracing back to the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013. Jones lamented the loss of the club's identity over the years and emphasized the need to return to the basics of solid, compact, and hard-to-beat football. Ruben Amorim is rumored to be the club's top choice to replace Ten Hag, with Manchester United reportedly preparing to trigger the €10 million (£8.5m) release clause in his contract with Sporting Lisbon. Jones, who retired from professional football in August and has been assisting the club's youth teams, highlighted the importance of the club's core personnel who understand its inner workings. As Manchester United moves closer to finalizing a deal with Amorim, the club continues to search for stability and a return to their former glory. The team's recent 5-2 victory over Leicester, with goals from Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Alejandro Garnacho, showcased a dominant performance in the absence of Ten Hag. United is set to face Tottenham in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals following Tottenham's 2-1 victory over Manchester City.

Former AC Milan mentor Capello advises Leao to combat complacency

Leao was not in the starting lineup for Tuesday's match against Napoli, which ended in a loss for his team. Capello spoke to TMW, stating, "All that needs to be said has been said." He described Leao as a player possessing significant talent but also a tendency towards laziness. Capello emphasized, "The battle against laziness is crucial. He needs to realize that he has the potential to become an outstanding player, yet if he persists in his current attitude, he will forever remain a player with unfulfilled potential." Leao was not in the starting lineup for Tuesday's match against Napoli, which ended in a loss for his team. Capello spoke to TMW, stating, "All that needs to be said has been said. "He described Leao as a player possessing significant talent but also a tendency towards laziness. Capello emphasized, "The battle against laziness is crucial. He needs to realize that he has the potential to become an outstanding player, yet if he persists in his current attitude, he will forever remain a player with unfulfilled potential." theRegarding title race, Capello added: "We must not discount Inter, but Napoli will be a formidable adversary. They have a superb coach and exceptional players who have regained their ambition."

Erik ten Hag’s last stand: Ranking is not reflecting our performance

On Sunday evening in the press room at the London Stadium, about half an hour after his team had registered the wretched defeat which would mark his final game in charge, Erik ten Hag was looking forward to Manchester United’s next match. On Sunday evening in the press room at the London Stadium, about half an hour after his team had registered the wretched defeat which would mark his final game in charge, Erik ten Hag was looking forward to Manchester United’s next match. Even as the extensive brain trust assembled by Sir Jim Ratcliffe to reinvigorate the playing side of the club were checking the details of his contract ahead of firing him the following morning, it was evident from his demeanour that the manager thought he was still in charge. And after he had spoken about the failings of VAR and his players’ haplessness in front of goal when facing West Ham, he addressed some questions from the media about the forthcoming Carabao Cup tie against Leicester City. As is the way of such arrangements, his answers were to be the subject of an embargo, not to be published until Tuesday lunchtime; there to serve as a preview for the midweek match. Instead, with the benefit of imposed hindsight, they can be seen as a rather sombre obituary for a manager’s career, a swansong for someone who appeared to be as unaware of his impending departure as he was about how to win a football match. Because in his answers was evidence that, while almost every other observer recognised that the performances he has extracted from his team thus far this season have been tantamount to a note of resignation, he really did not see the P45 heading swiftly in his direction. ‘Ranking is not reflecting our performance’ Take his response, for instance, to a question about whether he considered 14th in the Premier League with a negative goal difference a legitimate reflection of his and his side’s capabilities. “We have to do better, that is the ranking,” he said. “But I will tell them [the players] the ranking is not reflecting our performances and our levels.” Clearly his employers did not share such an opinion. For them, the table does not lie. Ten Hag, though, clearly felt time was still on his side. “But at the end of the season we have to get this right,” he continued. “It is not easy when you have so many setbacks at the start of the season and to overcome this, but we have to fight back. It will always help when you have a good start because that gives motivation, gives belief, the confidence will grow. We are now in the process on the other side where we are disappointed and we have to deal with setbacks and now we have to find the fuel from setbacks and disappointments.” ‘There are still four to go’ He was then asked if such fuel might come from success in the cup competitions. Would winning the Carabao Cup constitute a good season for him?  His reply was revealing. “Definitely. It is about trophies,” he said. “I don’t want to go into this debate again. There are not so many trophies you can win, if you win a trophy in top football, that is the most important, that is what the fans expect, what we expect – to win a trophy.” He clearly still believed that the cups he had popped in the Old Trafford trophy room (did he ever mention he had won two?) would continue to shield him from dismissal. “We have had five opportunities and one we missed, that was the Community Shield,” he concluded. “There are still four to go.” Four to go? Given the position he had steered the club to in both the Premier League and the Europa League this season, given how poor his team had played thus far, given his tactical arrangements had been exposed time and again, that was a magnificently optimistic reading of potential silverware. But never mind that. When the meeting with Dan Ashworth and Omar Berrada concluded with his dismissal, he will doubtless have headed back to the Netherlands convinced that he had bequeathed to his successor, whoever that may be, a side already embarked on the pursuit of a quadruple.

Conte stands by Napoli players after shock Atalanta hammering

La Dea stunned the league leaders through goals from Ademola Lookman (2) and Mateo Retegui.“I have to be very honest, I thought it was the right performance from the team. There are certainly some situations on the goals that made the difference, where we can do better, but I cannot fault the team for their hunger and attitude,” Conte told DAZN. La Dea stunned the league leaders through goals from Ademola Lookman (2) and Mateo Retegui. “I have to be very honest, I thought it was the right performance from the team. There are certainly some situations on the goals that made the difference, where we can do better, but I cannot fault the team for their hunger and attitude,” Conte told DAZN. “We saw the statistics, they were very balanced overall. We pressed high and that used up a lot of energy, so I couldn’t have asked for much more. “We’ve done incredibly well so far this season, we faced a team that in my view is stronger than we are right now. I had said that in the press conference beforehand not to shield myself, but because this is an Atalanta side that has been a regular in the Champions League, that last season won the Europa League beating Bayer Leverkusen and they have a squad depth that ought to frighten everyone,” continued the coach. “We need to take this type of match, evaluate and learn as part of the process. Let us not forget, Atalanta got into the Champions League last season and we finished 10th. “They have an old coach, by which I mean someone who has been working with that club for a long time, not that he’s old! It is no shame to lose to Atalanta, if anything they are a reference point for us to look up to and work towards.”

Could Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior move to Saudi Arabia after Ballon d’Or snub?

Vinícius’s camp is taking stock of what happened - and his Ballon d’Or near-miss has fuelled fears he could decide his future is away from LaLiga.Right now, Vinícius Júnior and the people he has around him are taking stock of Monday’s Ballon d’Or disappointment. Frederico Pena, the Real Madrid star’s agent, applies an extremely analytical mindset to the way he works; he’s at pains to avoid impulse-driven responses. The primary conclusion Pena has reached is that the number of Ballon d’Or votes Vinícius received is very likely to have been adversely affected by the presence of two Madrid team-mates - Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal - among the favorites for the award. In particular, it’s felt that votes will have been split between Vinícius and Bellingham. Vinícius’s camp is taking stock of what happened - and his Ballon d’Or near-miss has fuelled fears he could decide his future is away from LaLiga. Right now, Vinícius Júnior and the people he has around him are taking stock of Monday’s Ballon d’Or disappointment. Frederico Pena, the Real Madrid star’s agent, applies an extremely analytical mindset to the way he works; he’s at pains to avoid impulse-driven responses. The primary conclusion Pena has reached is that the number of Ballon d’Or votes Vinícius received is very likely to have been adversely affected by the presence of two Madrid team-mates - Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal - among the favorites for the award. In particular, it’s felt that votes will have been split between Vinícius and Bellingham. Vinícius devastated by Ballon d’Or snub Meanwhile, Vinícius’s advisers are also aware that one of the criteria that Ballon d’Or jurors were told to take into account when casting their ballot was “class and fair play” - how players conduct themselves both on and off the field. In this regard, the Brazilian’s camp believes he has been placed at a disadvantage by the abuse he has to put up with at many stadiums around Spain, and a perceived lack of protection against opposition defenders from referees in LaLiga (in Europe, he feels far better looked after by match officials). Within Vinícius’s camp, it’s felt that these are factors that inevitably have a negative impact on his behavior. These two factors - a split vote between Madrid players and the ‘fair play’ criterion - are thought to be why Vinícius missed out on the Men’s Ballon d’Or, with Manchester City and Spain’s Rodri Hernández scooping the accolade instead. Although Vinícius has remained publicly bullish - posting on social media, “I’ll perform 10x better if necessary. They’re not ready” - privately, the 24-year-old is said to be devastated by missing out on the Ballon d’Or. Vinícius had been widely tipped to win the France Football award for the first time in his career. Ahead of Monday’s gala in Paris,he had flown around 50 people to Spain in anticipation of celebrations, and had prepared a huge party in Madrid. As part of his Ballon d’Or-victory festivities, he was also set to appear at the opening of a new Nike shop in the center of the Spanish capital. Vinícius believed that the trophy was his. Does Vinícius’s future lie away from Spain? But above and beyond Vinícius’s immediate sense of crushing disappointment,his Ballon d’Or near-miss could have longer-term consequences on the forward’s future at Real Madrid. He is starting to lose patience with several things. Firstly - and, as mentioned earlier, this was an influence on what happened on Monday - he feels utterly defenseless when he plays in LaLiga. While he accepts that at times he needs to work harder to ignore fans’ and opponents’ efforts to get at him, he feels Spanish referees are not only failing to protect a star whose playing style justifies soccer’s status as the ‘beautiful game’, but even end up punishing him when he complains about treatment he’s receiving. Moreover, fans’ abuse not infrequently crosses a line, descending into racist slurs - most notably, away at Valencia and in several Spanish-capital derbies against Atlético Madrid. The racism Vinícius has suffered in Spain has taken a heavy toll on him. And the growing constellation of stars at Madrid could also impact Vinícius’ long-term career strategy. Last season, Vinícius saw Bellingham take the limelight away from him in the first half of the campaign, before the Brazilian came back to the fore in the run-in. This term, Madrid have signed Kylian Mbappé, another megastar with whom he must now share top billing (not only in sporting terms, but also from a marketing standpoint). At the Bernabéu,such stiff competition for the spotlight could hinder Vinícius’s chances of going one better in the Ballon d’Or next year, even if Madrid win all seven trophies in play this season. Could Vinícius be tempted to Saudi soccer, Premier League? When it comes to Vinícius’s relationship with both Real Madrid and Spanish soccer as a whole,each of the above ingredients combines to create a highly dangerous cocktail. In 2023, his agent negotiated a short-term extension to his Madrid contract, extending his deal only until 2027. That was no coincidence. Pena wanted Vinícius to remain in firm control of his destiny. As things stand, he’s the most potent, penetrative attacker in the world, more so even than Mbappé, and is on the transfer wish list of every European giant that can afford him (chiefly the Premier League’s most powerful clubs, and Paris Saint-Germain). What’s more,Vinícius is also a target for Saudi Arabian soccer; as this newspaper reported, he was the subject of an eye-watering bid from the Saudi Pro League last summer. It was an offer that Madrid’s president, Florentino Pérez, refused to countenance, but the player himself took a different attitude to the approach. Were he to go to Saudi Arabia, he could sign the biggest contract in the history of men’s soccer. So, despite his commitment to enjoying further success at Madrid, Vinícius was interested in learning more about the Saudi offer, and his agents even discussed the potential for such a switch further down the line. Events such as Monday’s Ballon d’Or disappointment are the kinds of factors thatcould contribute to taking Vinícius down that path, or pushing him towards a league such as the English top flight.

Aguero blasts 'entitled' RMD for reaction to Vini losing out on the Ballon d'Or

Sergio Aguero has labelled Real Madrid 'entitled' in a rebuke of the club's reaction to Vinicius Jr missing out on the Ballon d'Or.The Brazilian winger and his club were outraged by the decision to award the prestigious prize to Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri and boycotted the Paris ceremony on Tuesday night. Sergio Aguero has labelled Real Madrid 'entitled' in a rebuke of the club's reaction to Vinicius Jr missing out on the Ballon d'Or. The Brazilian winger and his club were outraged by the decision to award the prestigious prize to Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri and boycotted the Paris ceremony on Tuesday night. In a statement, the Spanish giants claimed that neither Rodri nor Dani Carvajal winning it proved that UEFA had no respect for the club. This was followed by a report on Wednesday from Vinicius' camp that the 24-year-old believes the snub was down to his vocal opposition to racism. Aguero, who played with Rodri for two seasons at the Etihad, believes his former teammate is a worthy winner of the gong and he slated Madrid for their attitude towards the result. 'Well deserved. Rodri is the best player in the world.' He said on his streaming channel. 'Football is for everyone, not just Real Madrid – they are so entitled.' https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/93/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWchBoyAKVDGAAF7mi_AcDQ912.jpg Vinicius was a hot favourite to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or after his epic contribution helped lead Madrid to a LaLiga-UEFA Champions League double. He hit six goals and four assists in ten Champions League appearances and tallied 20 goal involvements in 26 La Liga matches. He broke his silence just minutes after an emotional Rodri picked up the prize on Tuesday night, in recognition for his roles in Spain's Euro 2024 triumph and his club side's fourth consecutive Premier League. 'I'll do it 10x if I have to. They're not ready,' he posted on X, hinting at future successes.' Reuters later reported that this comment was a reference to his fight against racism in recent years. 'The football world is not ready to accept a player who fights against the system.' A member of the Brazilian winger's management staff is quoted by the outlet as saying. Madrid's statement to AFP said: 'If the award criteria doesn't give it to Vinicius as the winner, those same criteria should point to Carvajal as the winner. 'As this was not the case, it is clear that Ballon d'Or-UEFA does not respect Real Madrid. And Real Madrid does not go where it is not respected.' As a result, Manager Carlo Ancelotti was not present to accept his award for best men's coach and there were no representatives to collect the award for the best men’s team.

Ruben Amorim, the incoming Manchester United manager, has indicated that he will not be pursuing any Sporting Lisbon players during the January transfer window. However, he has not dismissed the possibility of a summer move for the talented Viktor Gyokeres, who has been a standout performer for Sporting Lisbon. Manchester United, struggling with their goal-scoring prowess this season with only eight goals in nine games, could be looking at Gyokeres as a potential solution. The 26-year-old Swedish striker has already found the net 18 times this season, following his impressive 43 goals last term, but his release clause is set at a hefty £84 million.

Amorim has stated, "I’m not going to get any players from Sporting in January. Gyokeres costs 100 million and it’s very difficult." Despite his public stance, behind the scenes, Sporting Lisbon is anticipating that Amorim may target some of his former players, including Gyokeres, when the summer transfer window opens. Gyokeres, who is also being tracked by Arsenal, has not completely closed the door on a move to the Premier League, saying, "Going with Amorim to Man Utd? I don’t know… I’m here. As you can see, I enjoy it at Sporting. It’s nothing I think about. I’m just sad about him leaving. We wish him all the best." In addition to Gyokeres, Amorim is also rumored to be interested in bringing Goncalo Inacio and Ousmane Diomande to Old Trafford. However, Amorim has not yet engaged in any discussions with Manchester United's current players, including his fellow Portuguese, Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes. He has maintained his focus on Sporting Lisbon ahead of his move to Manchester United on November 11, saying, "As for United, I haven’t spoken to anyone — not even the players. I’m focused on Sporting." Former Manchester United winger Nani has shown his support for Amorim, believing he is well-placed to succeed at the club. Nani commented, "He is in an excellent place and has all the conditions to do well." Morten Hjulmand is another player that Amorim may consider bringing in as he takes the helm at Manchester United.

Who is Slavko Vincic, the referee for Real Madrid vs AC Milan UCL clash?

The Rossoneri are the visitors to the Spanish capital in the matchday 4 UCL clash.Slovenian match official Slavko Vincic is set to return to Spain for the fourth matchday of the 2024-25 Champions League new Swiss Model league format. The Rossoneri are the visitors to the Spanish capital in the matchday 4 UCL clash. Slovenian match official Slavko Vincic is set to return to Spain for the fourth matchday of the 2024-25 Champions League new Swiss Model league format. After recently taking charge of the third matchday clash in the Catalan capital between Barcelona and Bayern Munich which saw Hansi Flick’s men run out 4-1 winners, Vincic is set to head to Madrid as Los Blancos welcome Serie A’s AC Milan. The 44-year-old is one of the top referee’s on UEFA’s books at present and was the man in the middle at Wembley Stadium as he oversaw last season’s Champions League final taking charge of Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Borussia Dortmund. He made his Champions League debut in 2016 andhas overseen more than 40 games in Europe’s top club competition.He has also been involved in Europa League games, overseeing the Frankfurt-Rangers final in Seville (2022) and has even officiated in Saudi Arabia taking charge of Al Hilal’s recent win over Al Ahli last month in Riyadh. Vincic’s international pedigree Vincic has featured at three major tournaments and oversaw games at Euro 2020, World Cup 2022 (overseeing Saudi Arabia’s historic 2-1 over eventual winners Argentina)and Euro 2024, officiating three games:Spain vs Italy, Hungary vs Switzerlandand the semi-final betweenSpain and Francein Munich. Who are Vincic’s assistants for Madrid vs Milan? Vincic will head up an almost all-Slovenian team of officials in Madrid withTomaz Klancnik and Andraz Kovacic set to be the assistant referees,andMatej Jugwill be the fourth official. The video assistant referee (VAR) will bePol Van Boekelfrom the Netherlands with the assistant VAR to beTiago Martinsfrom Portugal.

Manchester United's Clash with Arsenal: Can the Red Devils' Surge Secure a Triumph over Their Rivals?

A year in football is a brief period, yet it can mark a significant transformation. Recall the same weekend last year when Arsenal made a formidable claim for the Women's Super League title, defeating the previously unbeaten Manchester City, even after failing to convert a penalty. A year in football is a brief period, yet it can mark a significant transformation. Recall the same weekend last year when Arsenal made a formidable claim for the Women's Super League title, defeating the previously unbeaten Manchester City, even after failing to convert a penalty. This victory ignited a winning streak of four matches, during which Arsenal netted a total of 16 goals, including an emphatic 4-1 victory over Chelsea, who would go on to become the champions. The team's momentum was palpable, and fans flocked to the Emirates to witness Arsenal setting new benchmarks. Arsenal broke yet another attendance record against Emma Hayes' Chelsea, and the team exuded a clear message: 'Arsenal is back'. They quickly became the league's envy. However, tougher times lay ahead. The initial optimism faded, and the confidence that once filled the stands began to ebb away after a string of lackluster performances, culminating in the departure of manager Jonas Eidevall. The Swedish manager insisted that the team's performances were better than the results suggested, but in reality, Arsenal had lost their way and risked being left behind. Even with two wins since Eidevall's departure, confidence in N5 remains fragile. The situation at Manchester United mirrored the frustrations felt throughout last year's tumultuous campaign. Marc Skinner's team had been "inflated by the success" of the previous season, and their standards slipped. Many voices called for Skinner's departure following the team's underperformance. Though the calls grew louder, they never reached a peak as United finished fifth, salvaging their season by winning the FA Cup. Now, a month into the 2024-25 season, it seems fortune has shifted. Manchester United are on an upward trajectory after an unbeaten start, joining Manchester City and Chelsea as one of three teams yet to taste defeat. The team has steadied and is sailing towards calmer waters, while Arsenal, now without a manager, desperately seek a clear path forward. This weekend's match is timely—two teams on seemingly diverging paths meeting at this critical moment is significant. For Arsenal, it's an opportunity to prove that their recent struggles are not indicative of a broader, more concerning downturn. And for Manchester United—who have only lost one of their last four home games against Arsenal in the WSL—an opportunity to demonstrate significant progress and solidify their position among the title contenders. No statistic better encapsulates the situation than this: Arsenal has made a league-high 12 changes to their starting lineup this season as they search for form, while Manchester United has made the joint-fewest (3). A stable team often signals harmony within the camp. And this, Skinner's

Halloween Hilarity: Top Costumes of the Spooky Season

🎃 Happy Halloween, everyone! 🎃 Welcome to our revamped feature—Halloween Hilarity! In response to your feedback, we've merged humorous memes with daily jokes to amplify the fun for our audience and enhance your viewing experience. We wish you all a fantastic Halloween! 🎃 Happy Halloween, everyone! 🎃 Welcome to our revamped feature—Halloween Hilarity! In response to your feedback, we've merged humorous memes with daily jokes to amplify the fun for our audience and enhance your viewing experience. We wish you all a fantastic Halloween! Humor Highlight of the Day Spotlight on the most creative Halloween costume "Secret to clinching the Ballon d'Or?" Rodri: Halloween attire tailored for Tottenham enthusiasts Man United squad's reaction to the latest managerial departure https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/EB/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWckhFGAB-4GAAbzadLZ9qs065.jpg Article 1: The Enigma of Endrick's Bench Warming at Real Madrid @Josedad: Endrick ????️ The press is chuckling at my bench-warming status Don Carlos ????️ Be grateful for your seat because your role model's era has long passed and you can't impact today's football @Shmonny: 🏆 Former Real Madrid forward, Antonio Cassano on Rodri's Ballon d'Or win: "Rodri's 2024 Ballon d'Or victory is justified. Many in Madrid are disgruntled, but they overlook 2013 when Ribery dominated with Bayern Munich yet Ronaldo took the prize." @Baffaboriello: "Pedri ????: Show Gavi the Ballon d'Or or expect an ElClasico rerun!" @Constantinetino: Cease the propagation of baseless claims; the lad is green and it's premature for such talk

Paris Saint-Germain is reportedly keeping a close eye on the contractual developments of Vinicius Jr. with Real Madrid, as per a Relevo report. The Spanish giants are said to be keen on retaining the Brazilian winger as a key figure in their long-term plans, with discussions already underway to extend his stay beyond the current contract's expiration in 2027. Despite this, Vinicius Jr. is taking his time to sign, seeking an opportune moment to enhance his financial package in Madrid.

In the wings, PSG, along with Manchester United, Chelsea, and Al-Nassr, are believed to be interested in luring the 24-year-old to their respective squads. For PSG, the pursuit of Vinicius Jr. carries a more personal dimension, as they aim to retaliate against Real Madrid and its president, Florentino Pérez, following the summer transfer of Kylian Mbappé from Paris to Madrid. This move is seen as PSG's strategic response in the ongoing rivalry between the two football powerhouses. Source: GFFN | Nick Hartland Paris Saint-Germain is said to be closely observing the contract negotiations between Vinicius Jr. and Real Madrid, with an intention to potentially sign the player. Real Madrid is eager to secure Vinicius Jr.'s future, initiating talks to extend his contract, yet the player is taking his time, possibly to negotiate better terms. PSG, along with other clubs, is interested in Vinicius Jr., with PSG's interest being particularly motivated by a desire to counter Real Madrid's acquisition of Kylian Mbappé.

Slot breaks his silence on Ten Hag's Man United sacking

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has offered his thoughts on Erik ten Hag's sacking at Manchester United.Ten Hag was axed by United on Monday after a little over two years in charge following a disappointing start to the season, with United down in 14th in the Premier League and yet to register a win in Europe. Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has offered his thoughts on Erik ten Hag's sacking at Manchester United. Ten Hag was axed by United on Monday after a little over two years in charge following a disappointing start to the season, with United down in 14th in the Premier League and yet to register a win in Europe. Slot only arrived in England this summer, but played his part in Ten Hag's downfall as he led his Liverpool side to a 3-0 win at Old Trafford last month. Despite the rivalry that exists between Liverpool and United, Slot has offered some sympathy for Ten Hag's situation, and has tipped his fellow Dutchman to bounce back. 'He's a Dutch manager which makes it even harder for me, for us as Dutch people,' Slot said at a press conference ahead of Liverpool's trip to Brighton for their Carabao Cup tie on Wednesday. 'Always your first thoughts are with the person. We are all in this job so we know it can happen, but if it happens, especially because I know him a little bit and I know how much work he puts into it, then to get this news for him is a pity. 'But we also know, especially coming from Holland, how well he did at Ajax and that he won two trophies over here so we will see him in the near future somewhere at a big club again. At this moment, for him and his family it's a big disappointment.' Prior to his arrival at Anfield, Ten Hag had appeared to aim a jibe at Slot back in May when he downplayed Feyenoord's achievements last season. Feyenoord finished seven points behind champions PSV Eindhoven, and Ten Hag told Voetbal International: 'People have been going overly lyrical about Feyenoord. 'Feyenoord were steady this year, but not top. PSV Eindhoven were two classes better in all areas. In terms of dominating the ball, in terms of putting pressure, in terms of intensity, you name it.' https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/8B/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcg4UeAalLRAADvfFf7chE771.jpg He added: 'PSV Eindhoven were better than the rest by such a long distance, even so much better than Feyenoord.' But Slot gained his revenge earlier this season as Liverpool eased past United, and he has now outlasted Ten Hag in England. United have moved swiftly to find Ten Hag's replacement, with the Red Devils edging nearer to appointing Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim. Meanwhile, Ten Hag boarded a plane back to the Netherlands on Monday where he is set to spend some time with his family after being relieved of his duties at United.

Eddie Howe responds to being BOOED by Newcastle fans for taking Tonali off

Eddie Howe has asked supporters not to boo his substitutions as he called for unity amid Newcastle’s winless run.Fans have let their feelings be known during the last two matches when Howe has withdrawn Sandro Tonali not long after the hour mark. Eddie Howe has asked supporters not to boo his substitutions as he called for unity amid Newcastle’s winless run. Fans have let their feelings be known during the last two matches when Howe has withdrawn Sandro Tonali not long after the hour mark. Newcastle have slipped to 12th in the Premier League after five without victory and, while some fans and observers have criticised the functionality of the team’s midfield, there are others who believe it has been wrong for Howe to take off Tonali. He has been replaced by Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff in recent matches. Howe, though, would rather the booing did not happen during a game, as he asked supporters and the team to stay together ahead of Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup tie at home to Chelsea. ‘Firstly, I love the fact supporters regard Sandro in the highest esteem as I do,’ he said. ‘The only thing I would ask is that any frustrations towards me or any decisions are reflected after the game, not in the moment. I think it’s difficult then for the players coming onto the pitch. Not that it should necessarily affect their performance, but it just does create an element of doubt. ‘The difficult decision I have, especially in midfield, is that we have three outstanding players starting the game (Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton). Then, you’re losing the game and you’re trying to make changes that you feel can help us, without leaving it too late. Ultimately, I’ve judged it on goals and creativity and trying to get as many of them in the team as I can when we chase a game.’ Howe added: ‘At this moment, it is very important I back the players - show strength, show calmness in what I believe in what we are doing, but not blindlessly carrying on if things are not working. ‘Unity is the most important thing. The hardest thing when the team isn’t getting the results that we want is to stay unified. The supporters have been incredibly good, look at them at Stamford Bridge (on Sunday). ‘We talk about the reaction to Sandro’s substitution, and I understand that, but the reaction after the game was incredible. It is not the first time they have backed us in defeat or difficult runs. It means so much to us because it gives us the best chance to fight back as quickly as possible.’ Tonali has not scored since his debut against Aston Villa on the opening day of last season - albeit with a 10-month betting ban in between - and that was also the only time he has started a Premier League match Newcastle have won. Howe said following Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at Chelsea that he believed there was more to come from the Italian, and he added: ‘Of course there is more to come from him and the whole team. More from him means more influence on the game. Technically, he is an outstanding player. To see that technical ability, we want him to get the ball more. ‘Playing as a No.8 we need more of a goal threat, too. That is such a key thing for the players in those positions. We have struggled for goals as a team. We need goals from every angle. Everyone has to contribute.’ Meanwhile, Howe has given a robust defence of his midfield unit. ‘I am happy (with the midfield),’ he said. ‘I don’t think it’s absolutely perfect at the moment, because the results will tell you it’s not. But if you look at the team functioning, especially in the last three performances, we’ve been good in the main. We have been creating chances and have been more than competitive. I don’t see something that is drastically wrong looking at the team. ‘The results will say the blend isn’t great, but I think our general performances in midfield I haven’t had an issue with. I don’t have a negative issue with our midfield. We have three outstanding starting players. Relationships do take time to build. These things don’t happen overnight, but I’ve seen enough to know that those three players can work in tandem together well.’

Amorim 'is set to take charge of Man United as soon as SUNDAY against Chelsea

Man United are closing in on the appointment of Ruben Amorim as manager, amid reports he could take charge of the Red Devils this weekend.The Premier League giants are in talks with Sporting Lisbon over Amorim, with the club making quick progress. Man United are closing in on the appointment of Ruben Amorim as manager, amid reports he could take charge of the Red Devils this weekend. The Premier League giants are in talks with Sporting Lisbon over Amorim, with the club making quick progress. Interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy is reportedly expected to only take charge of one match having been placed in temporary charge on Monday following the sacking of Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman will lead the club in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday against Leicester City, but the tie is expected to be his only match as interim boss. According to the Times, Amorim could be in place for Man United's next Premier League match this Sunday against Chelsea. Sporting are set to host Nacional in the Portuguese League Cup on Tuesday night. Ahead of the match, Amorim had been asked about links to United in the wake of Ten Hag’s sacking. ‘I was already expecting this question and obviously I’m not going to talk about the future, because otherwise I’ll always have to comment,' Amorim said on Monday. 'I’m very proud to be Sporting coach, that’s all.’ The fixture could be Amorim's final match in charge, with Portuguese newspaper Record reporting the 39-year-old could then travel to England on Wednesday. The report claims Man United are keen to finalise a deal with the hope Amorim could take charge - rather than observe - their next Premier League match. Man United host Chelsea on Sunday at Old Trafford in a high-profile Premier League clash. The Red Devils will be hoping to recover from a nightmare start to the season, with the club languishing in 14th in the table. Ten Hag oversaw three wins, two draws and four defeats in the top flight this season prior to his dismissal. The results have left Man United already seven points adrift of the Premier League top four and six behind Sunday's visitors Chelsea. Sporting have reportedly already lined up Amorim's successor with the club currently top of the Primeira Liga having won their opening nine matches. The Portuguese giants are expected to appoint Joao Pereira to take charge of the team, according to A Bola. The outlet state that the club have already precautionary plans for Pereira to be elevated from his role as manager of the club's B team. Pereira had three spells as a player at Sporting during his career, with the right back part of their title winning team under Amorim in 2021.

Exclusive: Dan Ashworth's Tactic to Outmaneuver His Former Team

It has come to light that Newcastle United has been informed that a prospective senior analyst is required to serve a stint at a competing club before joining their ranks, with Manchester United's Dan Ashworth being the orchestrator of this delay. Earlier this year, Luke Dickson communicated to the Manchester United hierarchy his intention to leave and join Eddie Howe's first-team coaching staff in a significant role. Newcastle United has been informed that a prospective senior analyst is required to serve a stint at a competing club before joining their ranks, with Manchester United's Dan Ashworth being the orchestrator of this delay. Luke Dickson communicated to the Manchester United hierarchy his intention to leave and join Eddie Howe's first-team coaching staff in a significant role earlier this year. However, the powers that be at Old Trafford, with Ashworth at the helm as sporting director, have informed the 28-year-old that he cannot commence his new role until November. This decision has been met with a collective sigh within Newcastle, with some viewing it as a retaliatory move following Ashworth's own departure from St James' Park in February. He was placed on gardening leave and only officially started at Manchester United in June after a £3 million compensation package was settled. Despite the cost-cutting measures being implemented by the new INEOS-led administration, it is said that Dickson, a native of Berwick, will not receive any severance pay due to his decision to leave for his childhood club. Nevertheless, after five years as the lead academy analyst, he is still required to fulfill a contractual gardening leave period. Ashworth's exit from Newcastle was contentious, with Mail Sport revealing earlier this year how the then-sporting director sent an email in February to Omar Berrada, the incoming chief executive at Manchester United, indicating his desire to accept a similar role at Old Trafford. However, Ashworth inadvertently sent a blind copy to his Newcastle email address before realizing his mistake and deleting the evidence. This alerted his employers to his covert discussions, initiating a protracted and chilly process for his departure. It appears that relations have not improved in the interim. SAUDI CUTS AND THEIR IMPACT ON NEWCASTLE We have been informed that the recent news of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund reducing international spending will have no effect on Newcastle United. Club chairman and PIF governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan announced a decrease in investment from 30 to 18-20 percent at the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, signaling a renewed focus on the domestic economy. However, it is understood that while the proportion of foreign investment may decrease, the actual monetary investment is likely to increase. Most importantly, investment plans for established companies in their portfolio, such as Newcastle, remain unchanged. Sources insist that PIF's commitment to the project is unwavering, but fans and observers believe that the extent of their interest will only be measured by the scale of plans to redevelop St James' Park or construct a new stadium. As always, actions will speak louder than words.

Vinicius Jr blames his fight against RACISM for losing out on the Ballon d'Or

Vinicius Jr believes that his public fight against racism cost him the Ballon d'Or, a report has claimed.The Brazilian missed out on the prestigious award to Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri, while Real Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham came third. Vinicius Jr believes that his public fight against racism cost him the Ballon d'Or, a report has claimed. The Brazilian missed out on the prestigious award to Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri, while Real Madrid teammate Jude Bellingham came third. The Spanish giants grabbed headlines before Tuesday's ceremony in Paris when it was reported that players and coaches had decided to boycott the ceremony after learning Vinicius Jr would not be taking home the top honour. The 24-year-old took to social media after he was confirmed as the runner-up, writing on X: 'I will do it 10 times if I have to. They're not ready.' According to Reuters, this comment was a reference to his fight against racism in recent years. 'The football world is not ready to accept a player who fights against the system.' A member of the Brazilian winger's management staff is quoted by the outlet as saying. Vinicius has been at the centre of discussions on racism in football, having been target to abuse at least 16 occasions in recent years. Last month, he suggested that Spain should not host the World Cup in 2030 unless action is taken over the issue. His remarks were quickly dismissed by LaLiga president Javier Tebas, who labelled them as 'incoherent'. 'I think that, if you look, you will see that his statements were not entirely consistent with what he himself says in the interview.' He told Football Espana. 'At the same time that he was saying that perhaps the World Cup should be re-considered, he was also saying that Spain is not a racist country. 'Let's remove what is incoherent and keep what is coherent: that Spain is not a racist country, and on that I agree with Vinicius. The forward broke down in tears at a press conference earlier this year when discussing the subject. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/89/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWcg2vKAIJGjAADCUvE7XQ8378.jpg 'If the situation with racism in Spain does not improve before 2030, the World Cup would have to be moved to a different location,' Vinicius Jnr said. 'So I hope that Spain can evolve and understand how serious it is to insult a person because of the colour of their skin, because if things don't evolve in 2030, I think we have to change the venue, because if the player doesn't feel comfortable and doesn't feel safe playing in a country where he can suffer racism, it's a bit complicated.' Vinicius was a hot favourite to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or after his vital contribution helped lead Madrid to a LaLiga-UEFA Champions League double. He hit six goals and four assists in ten Champions League appearances and tallied 20 goal involvements in 26 La Liga matches. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/89/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWcg2vGAGDTCAADYgk54vyU437.jpg 'If the criteria of the award do not proclaim Vinicius the winner, those same criteria must proclaim Carvajal the winner,' a statement from Madrid ahead of the ceremony. 'Since this has not been the case, it is obvious that the Ballon d'Or and UEFA do not respect Real Madrid. And Real Madrid is not where it is not respected.'

Sporting fan bursts into tears live on TV after question about Amorim leaving

A SPORTING fan burst into tears when asked about Ruben Amorim's potential switch to Manchester United.The Portuguese has emerged as the favourite to take over at Old Trafford following Erik ten Hag's sacking. A SPORTING fan burst into tears when asked about Ruben Amorim's potential switch to Manchester United. The Portuguese has emerged as the favourite to take over at Old Trafford following Erik ten Hag's sacking. United are reportedly looking at several candidates including Thomas Frank and Gareth Southgate. But Amorim is their No1 choice and United are willing to trigger his £8.3million release clause. Amorim is said to be open to the switch too, which is not good news for Sporting fans. Supporters flocked to the Jose Alvalade Stadium ahead of their game against Nacional and some were asked about Amorim's future. One elderly fan burst into tears when asked about the prospect of the 39-year-old leaving the club. He was only able to muster a few words before clasping his hand his hand over his mouth, before wiping away tears from his eyes. Amorim is a popular figure amongst fans after leading Sporting to their first league title for 19 years. He followed up that success by winning the Primeira Liga again last season, and this term he has a 100 per cent record from nine games. Amorim has built a reputation for improving players while handing opportunities to young players - which bodes well for United's young talent. While he is described as a “master trash-talker” in press conferences – a genius in getting his message across, creating a narrative while deflecting pressure away from his players. As one source told SunSport: “There is no one like him.”

The Pressure is On: Can Van Nistelrooy Revive Manchester United's Fortunes?

The tenure of Erik ten Hag at Manchester United appeared to be on borrowed time after the FA Cup triumph, and as anticipated, his dismissal came on Monday. In a swift move, Ruud van Nistelrooy, a former star of the club and fellow Dutchman, was appointed as the interim manager. Following the FA Cup victory, Erik ten Hag's position at Manchester United was precarious, and his eventual sacking was not a surprise. The club has wasted no time in seeking a permanent replacement, with Ruben Amorim from Sporting CP being the top candidate. Amorim is set to clarify his future after Sporting's league match on Friday, but it's almost certain that Van Nistelrooy, who led the team to a 5-2 victory over Leicester City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday, will be at the helm when Chelsea comes to visit on Sunday. Manchester United's home matches against other top-tier teams this season have been disappointing under Ten Hag, with losses to both Liverpool and Tottenham by a 3-0 margin. Will the team's performance change with Ten Hag's departure? What can we anticipate? United has an impressive record against Chelsea at home, remaining unbeaten in their last 11 league games (W5 D6), and they are aiming for a third consecutive win against the Blues at Old Trafford for the first time since 1957. However, United has only accumulated 11 points after nine Premier League games this season (W3 D2 L4), marking their second-lowest total at this stage, only surpassed by the 2019-20 season when they had 10 points. United has only lost four of their opening nine Premier League games on two occasions, both under Ten Hag in the last two seasons. The last encounter between these teams in April saw Chelsea win a thrilling match 4-3 at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea last won three consecutive league games against United in March 2011. United vs Chelsea is the most drawn fixture in Premier League history, with 26 of the 64 previous meetings ending in a draw, and the Opta supercomputer predicts a close match this time around. In 37.8% of the model's simulations, United wins. Chelsea wins in 37.3%, with a draw probability of 24.9%. A New Dawn Ten Hag's Premier League record at United is a 32% loss rate (27/85), which is the joint-highest percentage along with David Moyes (11/34). Of his 27 defeats, 26% came via stoppage-time goals, the highest percentage of any manager to lose 20+ games in Premier League history. While Amorim is expected to join soon, Van Nistelrooy has the opportunity to bring back a positive vibe to Old Trafford. United, currently 14th in the standings, is in desperate need of a win. Their recent five-goal performance was a much-needed morale booster, especially considering their struggles with converting chances. Only Southampton and Crystal Palace have scored fewer Premier League goals this season than United (eight). </

Garnacho's brother reacts to Amorim's imminent appointment as Man Utd's manager

Alejandro Garnacho's brother has delivered his verdict on Ruben Amorim's imminent appointment as Manchester United's new manager.Sporting Lisbon have announced that Amorim is on the brink of moving to Old Trafford, with United 'expressing interest' in paying his £8.3m release clause. Alejandro Garnacho's brother has delivered his verdict on Ruben Amorim's imminent appointment as Manchester United's new manager. Sporting Lisbon have announced that Amorim is on the brink of moving to Old Trafford, with United 'expressing interest' in paying his £8.3m release clause. Amorim is expected to take charge of Sporting for one final time tonight as they face Nacional in the Portuguese Cup, before joining United. With Amorim closing in on replacing Erik ten Hag, Roberto Garnacho has taken to X to post his reaction to the change in the dugout. 'Just praying to see a Man United which the fans are fully behind the manager and criticising the players when it's needed!' he wrote. 'Let's go Reds, hope good things coming for us.' Roberto's post appears to suggest that United fans had lost faith in Ten Hag after a dire start to the season. United have lost four of their opening nine league games to sit 14th in the table, while they are yet to win in Europe this term. His comment on criticising players could be construed as a thinly-veiled dig at supporters, with boos ringing around Old Trafford becoming a regular occurrence this season. The Red Devils have been beaten 3-0 at Old Trafford by Liverpool and Tottenham, while also losing on the road to Brighton and West Ham. That loss at West Ham on Sunday proved to be the final straw for Ten Hag, and Amorim will now be charged with bringing the feel-good factor back to United. He will not be in place for Wednesday night's Carabao Cup tie against Leicester City, with Ruud van Nistelrooy set to take charge of that match. But United hope he will be ready to lead the team this weekend when they host an in-form Chelsea side on Sunday afternoon.

Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting into champs… he can revive Man Utd

WHEN a 35-year-old Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”.Sporting ended that 2019/20 campaign in fourth, 22 points off champions Porto with Amorim their third manager in seven months. WHEN a 35-year-old Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”. Sporting ended that 2019/20 campaign in fourth, 22 points off champions Porto with Amorim their third manager in seven months. Optimism and hope was at an all-time low. But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals. Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term. He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival. And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the Continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford. Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up. After his early retirement as a player at the age of 32, Amorim would spend his time at the Faculty of Human Kinetics at University of Lisbon, listening to lectures held by Jose himself. Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”. Amorim knew the great man more than most thanks to his brother-in-law Antero Henrique – a former Porto communications director who worked with Jose during his ‘Special One’ years at the Estadio do Dragao where he lifted the Champions League in 2004. Ironically, Henrique was also targeted by United as a sporting director before switching their attention to Dan Ashworth – a man who normally gets it right when it comes to recruiting managers. But Ashworth should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won't be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.” And yet, you cannot help but compare the two. Amorim is described as a “master trash-talker” in press conferences – a genius in getting his message across, creating a narrative while deflecting pressure away from his players. As one source told SunSport: “There is no one like him.” There is an admirable arrogance within him, backed up by his early success, including becoming one of the most expensive managers in history after his £8.65m move from Braga to Sporting. This summer, his agents were reluctant to ship out his CV to top clubs, insisting: “You don’t need one when you’ve won two titles.” He then demands the final say over footballing decisions when taking charge at a club. After retiring, he was offered a role with Benfica's B team – having made 150 appearances for the club over seven years – but opted for Braga instead, where he would have more control. On his first day at Sporting, he showed the dressing room his preferred formation of 3-4-3 and told them they needed to fit into that system or risk not playing. Vasco Seabra, former head coach of Sporting’s rivals Estoril, said: “Amorim is always trying to improve his players. “He works with young talent but also with experienced players as well and what they all have in common is that they fight. They are really intense. “The players connect with him easily.” When in talks with both West Ham and Liverpool this calendar year, he requested a full revamp of the coaching staff, wanting to bring his huge eight-man team with him. His stubbornness over his back three has sometimes cost him jobs, with Anfield bosses unwilling to rip up their entire defensive unit to accommodate him. Amorim is not afraid to take on big egos and bad eggs, especially during his infamously tough training sessions at Sporting. During one session in April 2022, he sent ex-Leicester striker Islam Slimani home early for a lack of involvement and commitment. Three months later, Slimani was sold. But there is also a warm side to him, a humble side that Jose severely lacks. After flying to London to speak to West Ham back in April, he subsequently apologised to the fans. And unsurprisingly, he was welcomed back with open, loving arms, such is the relationship and trust he builds with his players. Vitor Campelos, head coach of Portuguese top-division side AVS, said: “He is the kind of coach who likes to bet on young players.” There is no shock then that Manchester City had been teeing up Amorim to be Pep Guardiola’s natural replacement after Sporting’s director of football, Hugo Viana, was named as the successor to Txiki Begiristain at the Etihad. And for all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face that City have no answer for.

Flick seeking improvements in Champions League despite derby win

Hansi Flick demanded Barcelona to make improvements from their second half showing against Espanyol when they return to Champions League action in midweek.Barca moved nine points clear at the top of LaLiga with a 3-1 win over their Catalan rivals, as Dani Olmo's brace and Raphinha's deft finish handed them a comfortable advantage at the break. Hansi Flick demanded Barcelona to make improvements from their second half showing against Espanyol when they return to Champions League action in midweek. Barca moved nine points clear at the top of LaLiga with a 3-1 win over their Catalan rivals, as Dani Olmo's brace and Raphinha's deft finish handed them a comfortable advantage at the break. However, the hosts were unable to build on their lead after the interval, with Espanyol pulling a goal back in the 63rd minute through captain Javi Puado. Espanyol also had two goals disallowed following VAR reviews, but Barca were able to hold on to claim an 11th win of the season. Barca's three goals saw them take their tally to 40 for the season, the second-highest they have managed after 12 LaLiga games in their entire history (42 in 1950-51). But Flick was left wanting more at full-time, insisting his side must improve before taking on Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League on Wednesday. "The second half today, I told the team that I would accept it because they have done a great job so far. But on Wednesday we need a better performance," Flick said. "The derby is always complicated. In the first half the team showed a great level and in the second half we didn't play as we usually do. "We lost a lot of balls and that's one of the reasons why Espanyol were able to pull one back. "We have to improve on that... But the important thing is the victory and I would highlight the concentration of all the players."

Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly in the mix to sign Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr., as the Brazilian winger has rejected new contract negotiations, sparking interest from top clubs. According to Spanish media outlet Relevo, the 24-year-old, who has been a standout performer in La Liga and was a contender for the Ballon d'Or before Rodri's victory, is being pursued by several teams, with the Premier League giants among them.

Vinicius Jr., whose contract extends through 2027, has attracted the attention of Manchester United and Chelsea, who are keen to secure his services. However, they are not alone in their pursuit, as Paris Saint-Germain, the French champions, are also interested in acquiring the star winger. This interest is particularly notable given the tense relationship between Real Madrid and PSG over the prolonged pursuit of Kylian Mbappe. PSG is said to be eager to exact a form of revenge on Real Madrid by luring Vinicius Jr. away under similar circumstances. Real Madrid's management is desperate to prevent such an outcome and is intent on showing their appreciation for Vinicius Jr.'s contributions. In addition to European interest, Vinicius Jr. has also been the subject of a massive offer from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. The proposal, which was rumored to be in the region of €1 billion over five seasons for a move to Al-Ahli, highlights the global demand for his talents. Despite the intense interest, Real Madrid is determined to retain Vinicius Jr. for the long term. However, for now, discussions regarding a new contract have been postponed. Vinicius Jr. has been a key figure at Real Madrid, contributing to three LaLiga titles, two Champions Leagues, a Copa del Rey, and two Club World Cups. His performance last season, with 24 goals and 11 assists, had many anticipating a Ballon d'Or win, a disappointment that was deeply felt by both the player and the club.

Man Utd players 'felt Ten Hag took punishment of Ronaldo and Sancho TOO FAR'

Senior Manchester United players felt Erik ten Hag went too far with his punishments for Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho, according to reports.Ten Hag was sacked by United on Monday after a little over two years at the club following a dismal start to the season. Senior Manchester United players felt Erik ten Hag went too far with his punishments for Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho, according to reports. Ten Hag was sacked by United on Monday after a little over two years at the club following a dismal start to the season. His time at Old Trafford was littered with disagreements with players, including Ronaldo when he was just months into his new job. Ten Hag and Ronaldo fell out in October 2022 when the Portuguese superstar refused to come on as a late substitute against Tottenham. Ronaldo was banished from first team training in a move that was initially supported by the United squad. However, things turned when Ronaldo was prevented from getting back into the dressing room to retrieve a pair of trainers and had to get an academy player to pick them up for him, with some senior stars believing the outright ban on using first team facilities amounted to an 'unnecessary humiliation', as reported by ESPN. Just days later, Ronaldo conducted a bombshell interview with Piers Morgan where he accused Ten Hag of disrespecting him. Ronaldo's United contract was subsequently terminated by mutual consent as he left the club for the second time to join Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Nassr. But that was not the only public fall-out that involved Ten Hag during his time at United. The following season, Ten Hag had a bust-up with Sancho after leaving the winger out of his squad for a 3-1 defeat by Arsenal due to his 'performance in training'. Sancho hit back on social media, accusing his manager of making him a 'scapegoat', and Ten Hag responded by exiling the England international from his squad. Sancho was forced to train, eat and change on his own, and refused to apologise to Ten Hag despite encouragement from his team-mates to do so. As the stalemate continued, it is understood that some players felt Ten Hag was being too harsh on Sancho, and that ordering him to apologise in public was an unnecessary demand. With no olive branch in sight, Sancho was loaned out to former club Borussia Dortmund in January 2024 for the rest of the season. He flourished on his return to Germany, helping Dortmund reach the Champions League final as he delivered a man of the match display in their semi final first leg victory over PSG. Following that performance, ESPN states United representatives reached out to high-profile pundits to tell them to stop talking so positively about Sancho as it would put United in a bad light. Sancho returned to Carrington in the summer, and with no club willing to match United's asking price for the 24-year-old he was brought back into the first team squad after reaching a truce with Ten Hag. Ten Hag was not comfortable with bringing Sancho back into the fold, though, as he wondered whether his authority would be questioned, and this led to Sancho being loaned out to Chelsea on deadline day in August. Chelsea will have an obligation to buy Sancho for £23m next summer, which represents a £50m loss for United after they bought him for £73m in 2021. Sancho has also started well at Chelsea, registering three assists in his first five league appearances, while Ten Hag is now back in the Netherlands after being put out of his misery at United.

Simeone lauds son Giuliano's 'growth' after netting first Atletico goal

Diego Simeone lauded his son Giuliano after his first LaLiga goal helped Atletico Madrid on their way to a 2-0 victory over Las Palmas on Sunday.The 21-year-old latched on to Nahuel Molina's pass before firing the ball beyond Jasper Cillessen, before Alexander Sorloth sealed the win seven minutes from time. Diego Simeone lauded his son Giuliano after his first LaLiga goal helped Atletico Madrid on their way to a 2-0 victory over Las Palmas on Sunday. The 21-year-old latched on to Nahuel Molina's pass before firing the ball beyond Jasper Cillessen, before Alexander Sorloth sealed the win seven minutes from time. Atletico's victory moved them up to third in the table, a point behind Real Madrid, who have a game in hand after their game with Valencia was postponed. But the day belonged to Simeone, who followed in his father's footsteps with his first goal for the club in only his eighth match in the Spanish top-flight. The strike came almost 20 years after his father and manager, Diego, scored his last goal for the club against Real Madrid. Though Simeone was thrilled by his son's achievement, he was keen to focus on the importance of the victory that saw them return to winning ways in the league. "He's working well, he's training well... it's important for his growth. As long as there is humility, the heart always responds," Simeone said. "We are happy, we needed a match that would give us a good feeling. We were able to take the game where we wanted and we were able to win an important match." Simeone, however, said he did not see his son any differently from other players in his squad, who started only his second league game this season on Sunday. "He did what he had to do, that's why he is at Atlético. He has a responsibility that has no name. They are footballers. "Those who run play and those who run less, play less," he told a press conference. "The club didn't spend money to buy a son on. He is a boy who was in the youth academy... we believe he can help. "He will have good games and bad games, but for sure he has what it takes."

Rodri explains remarkable journey to win football's biggest prize

Rodri broke his silence on Real Madrid’s decision to boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, after the Spanish midfielder became the first Premier League player to win the Ballon d'Or since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008. Rodri broke his silence on Real Madrid’s decision to boycott the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, after the Spanish midfielder became the first Premier League player to win the Ballon d'Or since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/87/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcg0c-ARDfrAADuqcll1jQ639.jpg ‘They have their decision. They didn’t want to be here for their reasons. I accept that, said Rodri. ‘I just focus on my club and my team-mates and the people who are here and happy to congratulate me and that’s it.’ Speaking during the official press conference after the ceremony where he beat Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jnr to the coveted prize, the Manchester City midfielder said: ‘Winning the Ballon d’Or is something you never think of - my dream was to play in the Spanish first division and professional football and I didn’t even think about these things. 'I was a kid watching players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo lifting these kinds of trophies every year and my dream was to play one day with them. ‘I never put a target on myself to be this kind of player. If you see the mountain from down below, of course it’s going to be very high but if you have small goals in your life, you will increase your level and you will be up and very high so I think this is what happened to me. ‘I never thought about winning the Ballon d’Or but in the recent years, I’ve performed at the highest level and the people that voted were romantic about the football I played so I’m very pleased,’ the 28-year-old added. The Men’s Ballon d’Or is elected by a jury of football journalists representing the top 100 countries in the FIFA Men’s Rankings. During the presentation where George Weah, who won the honour in 1995, awarded Rodri the trophy, the Spaniard recalled how he thought his career had ended at 17 while at Villarreal. ‘When I was 17, I left home with my suitcases to Villarreal to live a dream,’ he said. ‘I called my dad crying telling him that it was all over, I had the feeling that this was the end and my father said I’d come all that way and told me to keep going. That changed my mindset.' Asked by Mail Sport about that tale after, Rodri elaborated: ‘When you arrive in this moment at the top of the world, the only person that knows what you have come through is you. 'I remember the exact moment when I packed my luggage and travelled away from the family house and those moments are where you have to be really resilient. 'In that moment, I wasn’t performing well I was 17 and you know, at that age, there is a guy (Lamine Yamal) who was nominated for the Ballon d’Or. And I was playing in the second or third division in Spain. 'I really thought that my time was coming to an end. That call to my father was important. Now is when you remember those kind of things - the things people don’t know.’ Rodri, who was on crutches during the evening, is currently out with an ACL injury that will see him play no football for the rest of this season.

Guardiola congratulates Rodri and feels sorry for sacking of Ten Hag

Guardiola congratulates Rodri and feels sorry for sacking of Ten Hag“Hopefully it can give him this energy to recover well for next season to be with us again!”.What do you think of Real Madrid not going to Ballon d’Or? Guardiola congratulates Rodri and feels sorry for sacking of Ten Hag “Hopefully it can give him this energy to recover well for next season to be with us again!”. What do you think of Real Madrid not going to Ballon d’Or? “They want to go, it's fine, they don't, it's fine. They want to congratulate, it's fine, they don't, it's fine. We are not here to judge what other clubs decide what they have to do”, says Pep Guardiola. “I'm so sorry for Erik ten Hag”. “I have an incredible relationship and he represents Man United in the highest level in terms of behaviour”. “This game always depends on results, we can be at risk…”. “He’s going to come back stronger”.

'Rodri's on fire': Man City star celebrates Ballon d'Or triumph by singing along

Manchester City star Rodri was seen celebrating his Ballon d'Or success at a restaurant on Monday night.The Spanish midfielder — out for the season with a double knee injury — became the first Premier League player to win the award since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008. Manchester City star Rodri was seen celebrating his Ballon d'Or success at a restaurant on Monday night. The Spanish midfielder — out for the season with a double knee injury — became the first Premier League player to win the award since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008. Rodri, 28, helped City to a fourth straight league title this year and was an integral member of Spain’s European Championship winning side. Rodri has lost only one club game in 18 months. There was controversy on the night as Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr refused to attend the ceremony after being snubbed - but that didn't dampen Rodri's spirits. Shortly after he won the award, a video appeared on social media that showed the 28-year-old wildly celebrating his achievement in a restaurant. The video, posted on Man City's X account, showed Rodri sat in a restaurant - alongside team-mate Ruben Dias - singing 'Rodri's on fire!'. The City duo - accompanied by an entire table of people - belted out a loud rendition of the chant while chucking their napkins in the air. Rodri and his friends continued their singing throughout the night and also carried on waving the napkins above their heads as they celebrated the Spaniard's victory. Soaking in the adulation on Monday night, the visibly emotional midfielder said: 'Incredible night for me today. If you will let me, I would like to speak in my language of my country. In Spanish, he added: 'I always said that one of my key things is that I try to improve every day. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/93/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmchBSOAHF9QAADcAh2U80c388.jpg https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/92/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWchBSOAffT5AACgZCiHOtc464.jpg 'I was a traditional midfielder but when I realised I needed to get better in terms of assists and goals. You have to be like a striker because we always play in the frontal area. That is the key to improving every day. 'People don't know me much, I am just a normal guy. I try to enjoy my profession, try to be a good person, a leader, and learn every day from the best. 'I am a calm person until I get upset. I am a normal guy and try to say to my kids that you don't need to be crazy and try to do your best. 'I am feeling much better. A big big injury, it's part of life and sport. I try to look at the best part of this and be positive.'

Al-Hilal FC Maintains Unbeaten Streak in Saudi Pro League with 1-1 Tie Against Al Nassr

Al-Hilal FC's impressive streak remains unblemished after a draw with Al Nassr. 2024/2025 Saudi Professional League Al-Hilal FC's impressive run in the Saudi Pro League continued as they secured a 1-1 draw against Al Nassr, extending their unbeaten streak to 45 matches. Match Events The match kicked off with an early goal by Talisca for Al Nassr, putting the home team on the board within the first minute. Throughout the match, both teams had their moments, with Al-Hilal FC's Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr's Talisca being key figures. The equalizer came in the 77th minute when Sergej Milinkovic-Savic headed the ball into the net, leveling the score and maintaining Al-Hilal's unbeaten record. Despite late efforts from both sides to secure a win, the match ended in a draw, with the points shared at Al Awal Park at King Saud University. Match Report Al-Hilal FC, despite not winning, moved one point clear of Al-Ittihad at the top of the league standings. The draw ended Cristiano Ronaldo's streak of scoring in four consecutive games, but he remained Al Nassr's most significant threat. Line-ups Al Nassr FC's lineup included notable players such as Ronaldo, Brozovic, and Talisca, while Al-Hilal FC's squad featured Milinkovic-Savic and Lodi. For more detailed insights and analysis of the Al Nassr FC vs Al-Hilal Saudi FC match, click here.

Exclusive: Arsenal's Scheduling Conflict Between Men's League Cup and Women's Champions League

Arsenal is grappling with a scheduling conflict that impacts both their men's League Cup and women's Champions League commitments. The women's team is set to welcome Bayern Munich to the Emirates on Wednesday, December 18. Arsenal's men's team is scheduled for a League Cup quarter-final match, coinciding with the women's team's Champions League group stage game. The women's squad is preparing to host Bayern Munich at the Emirates on December 18th. The League Cup quarter-finals are also scheduled for the same week, with Arsenal drawing a home game against Crystal Palace. This presents a complex scheduling issue for the club. Crystal Palace has a match against Brighton on December 16th, broadcasted live on Sky Sports, which rules out the possibility of their Cup match against Arsenal on the following Tuesday. While the Premier League match might be rescheduled to Sunday, it still wouldn't provide sufficient time for the Cup match to be played on Tuesday. div December 19th is not a viable option either, as Arsenal and Palace are set to face each other again on December 21st. Moving the women's game to Wednesday 18th is an option, but Borehamwood's Meadow Park, their former home venue, does not comply with UEFA's stadium requirements. Mail Sport reports that the EFL is in charge of deciding the date for the League Cup match. Arsenal declared that all Women's Super League matches and Champions League group and knockout stage games would be held at the Emirates. Tickets for the women's match against Bayern have been available since September 28th.

Guardiola backs Ten Hag 'to come back stronger' after Man Utd dismissal

Pep Guardiola is confident Erik ten Hag will "come back stronger" after he was sacked by Manchester United.Ten Hag's two-year tenure at Old Trafford came to an end on Monday following the Red Devils' 2-1 defeat to West Ham in the Premier League 24 hours earlier. Pep Guardiola is confident Erik ten Hag will "come back stronger" after he was sacked by Manchester United. Ten Hag's two-year tenure at Old Trafford came to an end on Monday following the Red Devils' 2-1 defeat to West Ham in the Premier League 24 hours earlier. During the Dutchman's time at United, he faced Guardiola seven times, losing five matches and winning two, with one of those victories coming in the FA Cup final in May. Ten Hag, however, has failed to build on that success at Wembley. United find themselves 14th in the Premier League, picking up 11 points from their first nine games. "I feel very sorry for him, it's one of the best jobs in football. There's only us, it's not teachers or architects or something like that," Guardiola said. "I wish him all the best and he will come back stronger. If the results aren't good enough, you get sacked. No-one is different, myself included." Ten Hag took charge of 85 Premier League games and lost 27 of them. That is the highest total of losses by any United manager since Alex Ferguson. His loss rate of 31.8% is the second worst of all Red Devils managers in the Premier League era after David Moyes (32.4%), who was only in position for 34 matches. United faced 1,739 shots in their 128 games under Ten Hag. In comparison, since the 2022-23 season, City have faced 717 fewer shots than the Red Devils despite playing six more games in that time. Ruud van Nistelrooy, who joined Ten Hag's coaching staff this past summer, will take charge as interim head coach during the club's search for a permanent replacement.

Emi Martinez and his stunning Wag are BOOED mercilessly at Ballon d’Or ceremony

EMI MARTINEZ and his wife were mercilessly BOOED as they arrived at the Ballon d'Or.But the Argentine, 32, had the last laugh as he defended the Yashin Trophy.The pantomime villain is hated by French fans following his antics in the 2022 World Cup final. EMI MARTINEZ and his wife were mercilessly BOOED as they arrived at the Ballon d'Or. But the Argentine, 32, had the last laugh as he defended the Yashin Trophy. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/8A/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcg3yuAC3FWAAHmjrq76Oo450.jpg The pantomime villain is hated by French fans following his antics in the 2022 World Cup final. Not only did he put in a superb performance and play his genius mind games in the penalty shootout, Martinez riled up the France supporters even more with his provocative celebration with the Golden Glove trophy. However, Martinez was crowned Yachine Trophy winner in 2023 following his World Cup exploits. And on his return to Paris on Monday night, he was given another hostile reception. The Aston Villa stopper, decked out in a black tuxedo, headed down the red carpet holding hands with his glamorous partner Mandinha, who opted for a flowing red number. However, the boos were clear to hear - and neither of them particularly seemed to see the funny side. Martinez did give a brief thumbs-up - but whether that was genuine or a sarcastic response to someone out of shot was uncertain. The couple then posed for photos before heading into the Theatre du Chatelet for the prestigious awards ceremony. And once inside, Martinez was confirmed as the world's best goalkeeper for the second year running after helping Villa into the Champions League and winning the Copa America with Argentina. He pipped the likes of Spain No1 Unai Simon, Real Madrid stopper Andriy Lunin and Gianluigi Donnarumma to become the first goalkeeper to defend the crown. In the overall Ballon d'Or award, Martinez finished 18th in the vote - ahead of Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Antonio Rudiger, Cole Palmer and others. However, it was Rodri who collected the top men's award after his exploits with Manchester City and helping Spain win Euro 2024. Rodri beat Real Madrid trio Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham and Dani Carvajal plus Erling Haaland and home-favourite Kylian Mbappe in the vote. His compatriot Lamine Yamal came eighth but secured the Kopa Trophy for the best young player aged 21 or under. The 17-year-old starred for Spain at the Euros and became the third Spaniard in four years to collect the gong - following Pedri, Gavi and then Bellingham. In the Ballon d'Or Feminin for women's football, it was more success for Spain as Aitana Bonmati collected her second trophy on the bounce. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/8A/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmcg3yqAdPiUAAGoguZeY54587.jpg

Luke Shaw suffers injury setback - with Man Utd star still yet to feature

Luke Shaw has suffered a setback in his recovery from injury with the Manchester United left back still yet to feature for the club this season.Shaw has not played for Man United since February after suffering from injury problems. Luke Shaw has suffered a setback in his recovery from injury with the Manchester United left back still yet to feature for the club this season. Shaw has not played for Man United since February after suffering from injury problems. He had returned to make three appearances for England at the European Championships in Germany, but sustained a calf problem ahead of the Premier League season with Man United. The left back was originally scheduled to return in September, before his comeback was pushed back until after the October international break. In his final press conference as Man United manager, prior to his sacking on Monday, Erik ten Hag revealed Shaw had suffered a setback. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/94/720x-/-/-/CgAGVWchDN-AUFiDAACF_XhvrhU729.jpg 'The process is not going as we expected, that's the truth,' Ten Hag said when previewing their Carabao Cup tie with Leicester. 'The setback - if you want to call it like this - but we want to do it very careful because when he is now dropping again we have made the wrong process. 'So we want to be very careful, we know his past. 'We have to do this right because we want him to be available because he will have a big impact on our performances and also on our levels. 'We can't have it where he plays for some games then drops out again, we will do it very careful.' Shaw's absence has left Man United without a recognised left back so far this season, with Tyrell Malacia having been absent for 17 months due to knee problems. Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui have been forced to deputise at left back in their absence. https://img.allfootballapp.com/www/M00/59/94/720x-/-/-/CgAGVmchDN6AciQhAACBt2tU-PY376.jpg Man United interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy will have to decide who features at left back on Wednesday in their Carabao Cup tie with Leicester at Old Trafford. The match could be his only fixture in charge of the Red Devils. Man United are in talks to appoint Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim as head coach, with the hope he could be in place to lead the team against Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday.

Sporting set cut-price fee for Gyokeres despite £85m clause, eyed by 4 EPL clubs

Sporting Lisbon are reportedly prepared to let Viktor Gyokeres leave the club next summer, with four Premier League clubs in the race for the Swedish forward.Gyokeres is currently contracted to the Portuguese giants until 2028, with his release clause set at £85million. Sporting Lisbon are reportedly prepared to let Viktor Gyokeres leave the club next summer, with four Premier League clubs in the race for the Swedish forward. Gyokeres is currently contracted to the Portuguese giants until 2028, with his release clause set at £85million. According to the Sky Germany, an agreement has been reached that Gyokeres will be able to leave for between £50-58million. Gyokeres will reportedly not leave the club during the January transfer window, but a move next summer is considered likely. The report claims Premier League giants Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Man City are among those tracking Gyokeres. The quartet have reportedly been informed of the significant drop in the 26-year-old's price tag. Manchester United are not considered to be in the race at this stage, but the Red Devils position could change if Gyokeres' current head coach at Sporting Ruben Amorim takes charge of the Premier League side. Gyokeres has been a stunning success at Sporting since joining from Championship side Coventry in a £20millon move in 2023. His debut season at the Portuguese club saw the forward score 43 goals and provide 15 assists in 50 matches. Gyokeres' form in front of goal proved vital in Sporting securing the Portuguese title last season. Gyokeres' form has continued for Sporting so far this season, with 14 goals and four assists in their 14 matches to date. Two of his goals have come in victories in the Champions League, which have helped Sporting to eighth place after three matches in the new look competition. The forward has also scored 10 times for the Swedish national team in 24 appearances. Gyokeres previously played for Premier League outfit Brighton with the Seagulls signing the forward as a teenager. He spent time on loan at St Pauli, Swansea and Coventry, before joining the Sky Blues on a permanent basis in 2021. Sporting moved for the forward after he scored 22 goals in 50 matches for Coventry, after the club were beaten in the play-off final in 2023. Coventry will reportedly be due 15 per cent of a future fee from Gyokeres' next move.