Manchester United is riding high on a wave of success ahead of Sunday’s derby match. The team has won their last three games, two of which ended in dramatic fashion. Scott McTominay’s injury time brace against Brentford was followed by a Champions League tie with Copenhagen where other under-fire players stepped up. Harry Maguire scored the winning goal thanks to Andre Onana’s penalty save in stoppage time, sending Old Trafford into a frenzy. Maguire is set to play against City this weekend, with Lisandro Martinez still out. Additionally, Kobbie Mainoo is nearing a return from injury after featuring for the Under-19s in the UEFA Youth League.
In other news, there have been developments in the ongoing takeover process. Reports indicate that Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s funding for his 25% stake in United will come solely from INEOS and not from external loans. Stay updated on the latest transfer news and gossip with our live blog.
One player who has expressed his desire to play for United is CSKA Moscow midfielder Maksim Mukhin. The 21-year-old has been a regular feature in his side’s central midfield, scoring twice in 12 league appearances this season. In an interview with Championat, Mukhin said, “I want to play for Manchester United. It would be nice. This can really be achieved if you want it. You have to believe, even if the percentage of such a move happening is small.”
On the other hand, Newcastle will be without Sandro Tonali for their Carabao Cup clash against United. The midfielder has been handed a 10-month ban for breaking Italian gambling regulations. Tonali, who signed from AC Milan in a £55 million deal over the summer, has only played 12 times for Newcastle this season.
Leny Yoro, a 17-year-old Lille sensation, has caught the attention of United and several other clubs. The young centre-back made his debut at the end of the 2021/2022 campaign and has since become a regular starter for Lille. Borussia Dortmund, Atletico Madrid, and Liverpool are also reportedly interested in him.
There is increasing speculation that Jadon Sancho might leave United in January, with a move to Saudi Arabia being the most likely scenario. Sancho has been excluded from the first-team squad after accusing Erik ten Hag of lying in a social media post. While European clubs have shown interest in the winger, a move to the Middle East seems more feasible.
Recently, there has been controversy surrounding Alejandro Garnacho’s social media post in which he used gorilla emojis. Andre Onana, the player depicted in the post, has defended Garnacho and believes that no disciplinary action should be taken against him.
Former United captain Gary Neville has expressed doubts about manager Erik ten Hag’s ability to win major trophies under the current ownership model at the club. Neville believes that the ownership structure is a hindrance to achieving success in the Premier League and the Champions League.
Rumors about David de Gea’s potential return to United have surfaced, but club sources have dismissed them. De Gea’s replacement, Andre Onana, made a heroic penalty save in the recent Champions League match, and it is unlikely that the Spaniard will be offered another chance at the club.
The potential investment by Sir Jim Ratcliffe has raised concerns about the future of CEO Richard Arnold, who is likely to leave the club if the deal goes through as planned. Ratcliffe is expected to bring about changes in the club’s hierarchy.
The FA has contacted United regarding Garnacho’s social media post, and there is a possibility of charges being brought against the winger due to its racial connotations.
Last season, Manchester United managed to reduce their wage bill by £50 million, leading to speculation about the club’s financial management and spending decisions.
Michael Johnson is your soccer guru, providing extensive coverage of soccer. With a global perspective, he delivers match reports, player interviews, and insights into the beautiful game, ensuring readers stay connected to the world of soccer.
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