VAR OFFICIAL STOOD DOWN THIS WEEKEND AFTER MANCHESTER DERBY ERROR

 

The goal was initially ruled before the decision was reversed

The VAR who made an "error of judgement" in awarding a goal to Manchester City in Sunday's derby at Old Trafford has not been appointed to a Premier League game this weekend.

Matt Donohue, along with assistant Blake Antrobus, awarded a goal to City after a VAR check, despite Enzo Fernandez appearing to interfere with play in an offside position in the build-up to Erling Haaland’s goal.

Referees' body Pro Ref conceded it had been an error for Donohue not to send referee Michael Oliver to the screen to determine whether Fernandez’s involvement was sufficient to make him offside. The goal had been disallowed on field for an offside against Haaland, who was found on review to be being played onside by Patrick Dorgu.

Fernandez certainly appeared to have an impact on the actions of United defender Lisandro Martinez and goalkeeper Senne Lammens in his attempt to head the ball in, which would meet the definition for offside to be given.

Donohue made his Premier League officiating debut in May 2024, having gained promotion to the EFL’s assistant referees list in 2014. He has been used extensively as a VAR over the last two years.

Antrobus has also not been appointed to a game this weekend. Oliver will officiate Sunday’s match between Bournemouth and Liverpool.

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney said the decision to give the goal was "baffling".

Rooney told the BBC’s Match of the Day 2: "I’m just so sick of this VAR, I think it’s horrendous. It takes all the emotion off the game, the energy the game’s played with, and to not see that and recognise Fernandez is in an offside position…

"Anyone who’s played the game at any level understands that and knows that he’s in an offside position…to get it so wrong, it’s just baffling."

- RTÉ Sport

JOSÉ MOURINHO REVEALS HE SIGNED CONTRACT TO SUCCEEDED ALEX FERGUSON AT MAN UTD

 

The Portuguese has said in a new Netflix documentary about his life he had agreed to move to Old Trafford in 2013.

José Mourinho has revealed he signed a contract to succeed Alex Ferguson as Manchester United manager in 2013 only to tearfully renege on the deal and return to Chelsea.

The football world was rocked when the Scottish great announced he was retiring having overseen a 13th Premier League title triumph win during a spell of unrivalled dominance at Old Trafford.

United have failed to return to the top of the English game since Ferguson stepped down, with successor David Moyes sacked after only 10 months in charge.

David Moyes did not last long as Alex Ferguson’s successor at Manchester United (Martin Rickett/PA)

Mourinho was later brought in, spending two and a half years in charge from 2016, but revealed in a new Netflix documentary about his life that he had agreed to come earlier.

“I go to Chelsea in 2013 but in that period there is something nobody knows,” the Portuguese said in ‘Mourinho’.

“I think I can say because I don’t hurt anyone with the truth, and I think the objective of this work that we are doing is to tell the truth.

“When I left Real Madrid, I signed with Manchester United to go to Manchester United after .”

Mourinho continued: “I was, of course, very flattered, because Manchester United has an incredible appeal.

“When I say Real Madrid is the biggest club in the world, I have to say that Manchester United is very, very close.

Jose Mourinho celebrates Real Madrid scoring against Ferguson’s United (Martin Rickett/PA)

“But one thing is love for football, and another thing is love for a certain club.

“I think this is more powerful than love for football and, fundamentally, after Real Madrid, I needed to feel that I’m loved.”

Ferguson was one of the footballing figures interviewed for the new documentary and admits he was under the illusion Mourinho was accepting the offer, only for the situation to change in a matter of hours.

“Early evening he phoned me and he was crying,” the United great said. “And he says, ‘Alex, I can’t take it – I’ve given my word to Chelsea, and I’m not going to break my word’.

“The reason he gave to me I could understand, but I was disappointed.”

Mourinho had a strong bond with Chelsea after leading them to two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups during an unforgettable first spell.

The Portuguese parked differences with owner Roman Abramovich to return to Stamford Bridge after leaving Real Madrid, winning another league crown and League Cup before being sacked in December 2015.

Mourinho took in two spells as Chelsea boss (John Walton/PA

“For me to lose the chance to be the coach to succeed Alex Ferguson was dramatic, but I don’t regret because it was a decision that I made with my heart,” Mourinho, now back in charge of Real Madrid, said.

“And I think it is nature that says something that when you do something for love, you are never doing anything wrong. I think it’s nature. I did it for love.

“I went back with the feeling of, yes, I go home, but with big responsibility because what I did before is history, and you don’t want to destroy your legacy.”

- Simon Peach

BREAKING: MANCHESTER UNITED GIVE OLD TRAFFORD UPDATE AS THEY REVEAL SITE FOR NEW STADIUM

Man Utd have confirmed where the club's new stadium will be built as part of the latest milestone on the way to having a 100,000-seater home.

The location of the new Manchester United stadium has been revealed

Manchester United have confirmed the club's new 100,000-seater stadium will be built on land recently purchased from Indurent located around 350 metres away from Old Trafford.

United confirmed the location for the new stadium on Tuesday at the Wharfside Strategic Masterplan and although the stadium won't be built on land currently attached to Old Trafford, they insist it will honour the current ground's history and traditions.

The new ground will be the centrepiece of what is being called a Stadium District, which will be purpose-built for sport, entertainment and year-round activity, with the new stadium serving as the flagship landmark of the wider Trafford Wharfside development.

The masterplan sets out a bold vision for Trafford Wharfside, including new and improved public transport links, enhanced rail connectivity, and extensive walking and cycling infrastructure. The vision is for a diverse neighbourhood creating 48,000 local jobs and 15,000 new homes, with the new stadium acting as the catalyst. It is estimated it could offer a £7.3bn per year boost to the UK economy.

Collette Roche, CEO of the new stadium development, said: “The publication of the Wharfside Masterplan marks another significant milestone in our journey to create a new world-class home for Manchester United at the heart of a vibrant and transformational district for Trafford and Greater Manchester. Together with our partners, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver a destination that creates lasting benefits for supporters, local communities and the wider region for decades to come.

“The proposed stadium site is ideally located alongside Old Trafford, enabling us to preserve the heritage, traditions and matchday rituals that are so important to our supporters, while also providing the connectivity and infrastructure required to deliver a truly world-class fan experience.

“We are committed to building a world-class stadium with our supporters, not simply for them. Atmosphere, affordability and accessibility will remain at the heart of our plans, and we look forward to continuing our engagement with fans and other stakeholders as we move into the next phase of design and development.”

Coun Tom Ross, leader of Trafford council, added: “We are delighted to introduce the masterplan which starts a long journey to piece together what could happen where, to bring this world-class cultural and sporting destination to life.

“We want to create a great place to be, not just on matchdays but every day – and we’re looking for as many residents and businesses as possible to help us to shape this vision, through our forthcoming consultation process.

“Wharfside will become a network of attractive neighbourhoods in which to live, work, wander, explore, relax with family, enjoy nature and wildlife, meet friends, eat out, have a drink, shop and be entertained.

“It will have the best of parks and waterside spaces, housing including affordable options in vibrant and diverse localities, new health and educational facilities, joined up public transport and places to walk, cycle and be active.”

- Tyrone Marshall

ALEX FERGUSON TAKEN TO HOSPITAL AHEAD OF MAN UNITED VS LIVERPOOL

 

Sir Alex Ferguson has been taken to hospital after feeling unwell at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.

The former Manchester United boss was at the ground ahead of the Red Devils' showdown with Liverpool in the Premier League.

Ferguson was taken to hospital as a precautionCredit: Getty

The 84-year-old was taken to hospital as a precaution and it is not believed to be serious.

He was believed to have been taken to hospital more than an hour before kick-off.

talkSPORT's Adrian Durham reports that Ferguson has since been taken home to recover.

Man United take on Liverpool in Sunday's 3:30pm kick-off.

The game sees third take on fourth as Michael Carrick's side look to cement their hold on the top three.

The Red Devils can open up a six point gap on Arne Slot's team with a win, with just three games remaining after Sunday's clash.

Ferguson's record

Since retirement more than a decade ago, the former Red Devils boss has been a regular spectator at both home and away games.

He was a club ambassador for 12 years following his retirement, before his £2m-a-year arrangement was ended by co-owner Jim Ratcliffe last year.

Ferguson is widely regarded as one of the greatest managers of all time.

Ferguson won 13 Premier League titles at Old TraffordCredit: Getty

He took charge of Man United between 1986 to 2013 and made them into one of the powerhouses of world football.

Fergie won a staggering 38 trophies in his time at the club, including 13 Premier League titles.

Alongside the 11 trophies he won in Scotland, he is the most decorated manager in the history of the game.

Ferguson suffered a brain haemorrhage in May 2018 and was rushed to hospital.

However, he made a full recovery and returned to Old Trafford in September the same year.

He would later reflect on how lucky he was to survive the incident.

Ferguson retired as Man United boss 13 years agoCredit: Getty

In his 2021 movie ‘Sir Alex Ferguson: Never Give In’, he said: “There were five brain haemorrhages that day.

“Three died. Two survived. You know you are lucky.”

- Josh Fordham

MAN UTD 'COULD SCRAP' CONTROVERSIAL £200M ROOF IN NEW OLD TRAFFORD PLANS

Manchester United unveiled plans for a new stadium last March but it has now emerged that one standout feature of the proposed 'New Trafford' could now be ditched

Manchester United's design for their proposed new stadium could change(Image: PA)

Manchester United's plans for their new stadium are back under the spotlight amid fresh claims that an impressive new roof which would likely cost around £200million could be ditched.

The Red Devils unveiled plans for a new 100,000-seater stadium last year after deciding to press ahead with plans to leave Old Trafford rather than renovate their current home. It's estimated the entire project would cost around £2bn, though, and updates have been thin on the ground.

A tent-like roof was the most eye-catching aspect of the new design, which was unveiled by Foster + Partners. But The Sun are reporting that the roof Sir Jim Ratcliffe likened to the Eiffel Tower 'may never come to pass'.

It's also noted that specific feature is estimated to cost around £200m alone, highlighting the huge cost of the project. Industry sources also told the publication that Foster + Partners are 'renowned for their expensiveness'.

Behind the scenes, United are understood to still be working on funding for the ambitious project. It's said that there are 'differences' between what is public and what is private in regards to the club's search for backing.

It was claimed back in November that the prospective 'New Trafford' would not receive government funding, with The i Paper saying that the Treasury would not allocate any funding for the stadium.

Ratcliffe previously outlined that any move to a world-class new stadium would not be before 2030, with the hope that work may start by the end of 2025.

United veiled plans for their new stadium last year(Image: PA)

The Ineos chief has made no secret of his desire to see a 'Wembley of the north' built and stressed that any new stadium would have to be one befitting of Manchester United's stature when the plans were unveiled last March.

"The north of England has won 10 Champions League medals, London has two. But London has Wembley, Twickenham, Wimbledon and the Olympic Village," Ratcliffe said.

"The north of England deserves a stadium where England can play football, where we can hold the Champions League final, and one befitting of Manchester United's stature.

"Our current stadium has served us brilliantly for the past 115 years, but it has fallen behind the best arenas in world sport."

- Daniel Marsh

MANCHESTER UNITED DENY THEY WANT MARCUS RASHFORD RETURN

Manchester United have denied any notion that Michael Carrick or the club want Marcus Rashford back at Old Trafford at the end of the season.

Financially, a return doesn’t make sense - his wages are too high and his contract, which runs until 2028, increases as he approaches 28-years-old.

(Source: @AndyMitten)

SIR ALEX FERGUSON | RECORD SIGNINGS FOR MANCHESTER UNITED

 

MICHAEL CARRICK 'NOT OFFENDED' BY MAN UTD PLAN AND 'RESPECTS' DECISION

A Manchester United fan group are pressing on with protest plans this Sunday but Michael Carrick is not offended by them venting their frustration at Old Trafford

Getty

Michael Carrick insists he is "not offended" by the planned protest by Manchester United fans ahead of their clash against Fulham - and vows that it won't impact on the players as they bid to make it three wins from three under him.

Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim until the end of the season and has begun with a bang - first downing Manchester City at Old Trafford before going to Arsenal and beating them in north London. It has United firmly in the hunt to claim a Champions League spot for next season.

There is a feel good factor around the club, but the fans have not changed their mind on holding a protest before Sunday's clash, albeit their anger is directed at Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the overall ownership structure.

United fan group The 1958 is expecting upwards of 6,000 supporters to join their pre-match march to protest against the Glazers and Ratcliffe, who have continued to make unpopular decisions with anger and frustration mounting.

The 1958 group see Ratcliffe, who is in charge of football operations, as very much being in bed with the Glazers as the club's debts of £1.1billion continue to rack up - but Carrick understands their right to air their feelings.

The man in the dugout has maintained: "It doesn't affect the team. I fully respect the supporters. They're incredible. They have been for so long and had a lot of ups and some downs as well, but, you know, I'm not offended by it or anything, and the players certainly aren't. Within the stadium, the support we've felt, and that's been there for all the games that I've watched for quite some time, has been of the highest level and I'm sure it will continue to be like that.

'The connection we've had over the last couple of weeks has been pretty special and we've both fed off that. I think the supporters have fed off it.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is not popular among the Man Utd faithful(Image: James Gill - Danehouse, Getty Images)

"We have as a group, the players certainly have, and that's something we need to keep building on moving forward, because that's exactly how we wanted it to be. I think we've had a good couple of weeks and we're moving in the right direction. We want to keep building on that."

Already there is talk of Carrick landing the job beyond this season, although the original plan was for the club to eye a new permanent manager come the summer. Carrick's results could make him hard to ignore however with 15 games of the season remaining.

- Samuel Meade

MANCHESTER UNITED OVERHAULING CLUB NEXT YEAR | SIR JIM RATCLIFFE

 

MAN UNITED CELEBRATE HISTORIC WIN OVER PSG AS MARY EARPS BOOED ON OLD TRAFFORD RETURN

Man United experienced a historic night as they made a winning Champions League debut at Old Trafford

Mary Earps made her Old Trafford return in the Champions League (Getty Images)

Marc Skinner hailed a historic night after Manchester United made a winning Champions League debut at Old Trafford.

The famous ground hosted women's European football for the first time and United made it three wins from three in the league phase with a 2-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain.

Much of the focus was on the return of Mary Earps, who was a Red Devils favourite until leaving for the French capital at the end of her contract last summer, a decision that did not go down well with many United fans.

Earps' comments about that choice, which she attributed partly to a perceived lack of urgency from United to tie her to a new deal, as well as the much-publicised criticism of Hannah Hampton and Sarina Wiegman in her autobiography meant it was no surprise that she was booed.

The reaction from the near 15,000-strong crowd was largely negative, although there were also cheers, and Earps was received warmly by her former team-mates at the end.

She could do nothing about either of the United goals, which came from Melvine Malard in the first half and Fridolina Rolfo in the second, with Olga Carmona equalising just before the break.

Earps' successor as number one at United, Phallon Tullis-Joyce, was missing after picking up knock, meaning a first start of the season for Safia Middleton-Patel, and Skinner was full of praise for the 21-year-old.

Of the performance, he said: "It had everything who we are, it had a together team that wanted to bounce back from a poor performance against Villa that we can put firmly in the rear view now because to come out like that, even with the news of Phallon not being in the starting line-up and Saf coming in the way she's done tonight, she's my player of the match.

"It shows everything - our commitment, how much we love the fans, how much we love the club. You won't get a more together team and we needed it. Three fantastic goals tonight. From our perspective Mal's individual but then the team one.

"I'm incredibly happy with that because, if you'd have said to me we're sitting on nine points with Lyon and Barcelona after three games, I'd have bit your hand off. Congratulations to all the players and staff because we've made history. "

Match-winner Rolfo was delighted to play her part, saying: "It felt amazing. I'm so happy for this win.

"It was a tough game today, a physical opponent, but we won and I'm super happy I could help the team with scoring a goal as well."

Of the reception given to Earps, she added: "I didn't pay that much attention to it. I just heard the boos when she got the ball. I saw some signs as well with Mary on them, so it was mixed."

- Eleanor Crooks, PA

THE SIMPLE TRUTH ABOUT MAN UTD, THE GLAZERS AND A SAUDI TAKEOVER BY TURKI AL-SHEIKH

Manchester United have been in the hands of the Glazer family for 20 years, during which time around £1.2bn has been spent on debt interest, repayments, dividends and fees, after a takeover that loaded the club with debt

Avram Glazer, Executive Co-Chairman of Manchester United, and his family have never been popular in Manchester(Image: Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

The Glazers have treated Manchester United like a cash-cow. For two decades, the Floridian billionaires, who own a 48.9 percent stake in the club, have been making hay while the sun shines.

They have done so having loaded the club up to its eyeballs with debt. Since their 2005 takeover, around £1.2billion has been spent on debt interest, repayments, dividends and fees to the Glazers. They have sat back and milked a club they view as a business, more than a footballing institution for as much as they possibly could.

Despite not winning the Champions League since 2008 or the Premier League title since 2013, United continue to boast record revenues. Never mind losses of £33m, the latest figures in June showed United generated revenues of almost £670m. And this is despite the team not even being in the Champions League.

They are largely reviled by United fans. But they don't care. And when you've got the cash coming in like they have, who would want to give up such a good thing?

Certainly, not the Glazers.

You'd have to be 'filthy rich' to even get them to the table to persuade them to sell a piece of their United pie. But on thing that Turki Al-Sheikh most definitely is, is 'filthy rich'.

Turki Al-Sheikh has been linked with a move for Manchester United(Image: TKO Worldwide LLC via Getty Images)

A billionaire worth in excess of £2billion, he's the head of the sporting division of the Saudi Arabian government. And the man masterminding a sportwashing campaign aimed at improving his nation's atrocious reputation when it comes to human rights, the treatment of women and political controversies.

The Saudis have the keys to the kingdom when it comes to LIV Golf, while Formula One has succumbed to the Middle East kingdom's vast wealth too. So has snooker, with darts poised to follow. In 2034, the World Cup heads there too.

Publicly, Al-Sheikh - better known as Turki - has his claws into boxing. You'll have seen him calling up Eddie Hearn and making the Matchroom Boxing supremo jump into action whenever he fancied in the Hearn's Netflix documentary. Turki's £1bn collaboration with DAZN, via Matchroom, has seen the biggest fights head to Saudi.

For starters, INEOS, who own a 27.7 per cent share of United, are not in the conversation. Sir Jim Ratcliffe remains committed to the English giants, and has no interest in selling what he spent a lifetime striving to get his hands on.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has no interest in parting with his stake in United(Image: PA

On the other hand however, the Glazers would be willing to sit round a table if the price was right.

Yet, it would stretch even Turki's cavernous pockets. United's current value is around £2billion, but the Glazers would want a 'premium' based on potential future values. They've seen what Chelsea went for a few years back, not to mention the valuation of US sports teams, most notably those in NFL.

United are refusing to comment, and claim to have no knowledge of any negotiations taking place with the Saudis. But the Glazers could be plotting a sale in secret back in the United States. Who knows?

But there is one thing that we do now. One thing that remains as true as it has always been: Money talks.

And nowhere is that more true, nowhere does money speak louder, than in football.

The rest of sport is succumbing to Saudi. If Turki wants United, why would it be any different?

- Jeremy Cross

RUBÉN AMORIM'S BLUNT SACK ADMISSION AHEAD OF MAKE-OR-BREAK MAN UNITED MATCH

Ruben Amorim is facing increasing pressure at Manchester United, with the Red Devils having made their worst-ever start to a Premier League season under his stewardship

Ruben Amorim has spoken about a potential Man United exit(Image: Jan Kruger, Getty Images)

Ruben Amorim has confessed he faces the axe at Manchester United if he fails to turn around the club's dismal form. The Portuguese boss is staring down a crucial clash against Sunderland at Old Trafford today, following United's catastrophic Premier League campaign that has yielded a measly seven points from six matches.

The embattled coach acknowledged he must start delivering victories, or else the Red Devils will have little choice but to dismiss him and his backroom team after less than 12 months at the helm.

"Nobody here is naïve," declared Amorim. "We understand that we need results to continue the project.

"We will reach a point that is impossible for everyone, because this is a very big club with a lot of sponsors, with two owners. It's normal. You can't run away from the results. Then you have the baggage from last season, but last season for me doesn't matter.

"We have had six games this season, and we lost three. So it's the results. But imagine if we won the first game against Arsenal and then you don't miss the penalty and you win against Fulham, even without playing really well.

"Imagine if this happened, then the trust in everything about our club, the system, the way we play, would be completely different.

"So if you win, everything is okay. If you lose, you're doubting everything about yourself, about your team-mates, about the coach - everything.

"What I want is to see my team - winning or losing - playing the same way and we're not doing that. I just need one more game, because football is like that. We need one more game, we win, we get some hope and then in the next game we will see.

"That is always the same thing, so I don't need a lot of time. All that matters is the next game and the next game. We have to perform and we need to win."

United sit 14th in the Premier League ahead of this weekend's crucial clash against Sunderland at Old Trafford. Should they lose and results go against them over the next few days, the Red Devils could potentially find themselves marrooned in the relegation zone - something that will surely set alarm bells ringing at Old Trafford.

- David McDonnell Chief Manchester United Football Correspondent and Daniel Orme Football Writer

BENJAMIN SESKO PUTS RIVALS ON NOTICE AS HE EXPLAINS EARLY MAN UTD STRUGGLES

Benjamin Sesko does believe he's improving everyday at Manchester United but accepts that the Premier League requires him to hit a new level as he seeks his first goal

Benjamin Sesko is still waiting for his first Man Utd goal(Image: Nigel French/Allstar)

Benjamin Sesko is adamant that his top form at Manchester United is coming as he concedes the level of the Premier League is "certainly much higher" than he's been used to.

The Slovenian made a £74million switch from RB Leipzig in the summer and has been tipped to help solve the goalscoring issues at Old Trafford. So far though Sesko has only been used from the bench, appearing as a substitute in all three league matches.

In those cameos he's struggled to make much of an impact and is still waiting for his first goal in his new colours. The 22-year-old arrived with a reputation as one of Europe's best young forwards and hit double figures in the Bundesliga last season.

Now in England though Sesko has acknowledged that the demands are far higher with the level of football going up. As a result he's improving as he rubs shoulders with some high quality players and believes his best football will come.

He told Ekipa: “The level of the matches is certainly much higher, the players and teammates are also at a higher level. After all, English football is at the highest level in the world of football.

"But I am very much looking forward to the coming period, also because I am getting better and faster in every training session, and I am also progressing in my football mentality every day. I wanted to move to England and fortunately my wish came true.”

Sesko's only start came in the embarrassing Carabao Cup loss at League Two Grimsby Town. The striker copped criticism for stepping up late in the shootout, but it later emerged that the Slovenian had been struggling with cramp, hence his late inclusion.

Ruben Amorim passed up the chance to bring on Sesko during Saturday's win over Burnley, which did raise eyebrows. When Matheus Cunha was forced off in the first-half the United boss instead chose to bring on Joshua Zirkzee, with Sesko getting 20 minutes at the end.

Nevertheless Amorim is adamant that Sesko has a huge ceiling and believes he will enjoy a stellar career at Old Trafford. He said when he signed: “I think he has great potential in everything he does.

"He can play different types of football. He's going to feel that the Premier League is really aggressive, he's going to learn, but he has a great potential and I can see Ben being a striker for Manchester United for a lot of years. That's why we paid so much money - to have a striker that will have his history in our club."

- Samuel Meade

MANCHESTER UNITED: A CONUNDRUM OF CULTURE AND TACTICAL FAILURE

Last year, the appointment of the bright, up-and-coming Portuguese coach, Ruben Amorim, was meant to signal a new dawn for Manchester United. Tasked with changing the club's fortunes and reviving the winning culture at Old Trafford, he arrived with a sense of hope and purpose. But ten months on, the team has only sunk to new lows, leaving everyone to wonder just how much further there is to fall.

The season began with an air of excitement, and the arrival of a new frontline offered glimpses of the good days that United fans have long craved. That enthusiasm was quickly extinguished, however, with an embarrassing defeat to a fourth-tier side, Grimsby Town, in the Carabao Cup. The football world has come together to condemn Amorim's tactical system, which often employs a five-defender, two-midfielder setup. Many online tacticians have called for a change to a more traditional 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation.

Yet, a fundamental question remains: if a certain system is required just to beat a team four divisions below, is the problem truly with the manager's tactics or the players' commitment?

As Manchester United prepares to go again, the club is as unpredictable as ever. One thing is certain, though. To buy himself time for the rebuild, Ruben Amorim needs to start winning football matches, whether he plays with ten defenders or two.

- Paschal Magoti

'THIS IS BIG BOY STUFF' - ROY KEANE AND MICAH RICHARDS HAVE FURIOUS ROW IN STUDIO ABOUT MAN UNITED PLAYER

Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir prompted a huge clash between Roy Keane and Micah Richards after the Red Devils' loss to Arsenal.

The Red Devils were beaten 1-0 at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon in their Premier League 2025/26 season opener, with Bayindir left culpable for the winning goal.

Bayindir had a moment to forget for Arsenal's winner against United on SundayCredit: Getty

His error sparked a heated debate between Keane and Richards at full timeCredit: Sky Sports

Stand-in goalkeeper Bayindir was surprisingly named in the starting line-up by Ruben Amorim in place of Andre Onana.

The Cameroon international had not been expected to feature due to a hamstring injury suffered last month.

However, Amorim confirmed prior to the match that he had been available for the fixture.

His decision to start Bayindir instead backfired just 13 minutes in as the Gunners took the lead through Riccardo Calafiori.

A corner from Declan Rice caught the keeper off guard as the ball dropped under the crossbar with Bayindir only able to flap at it.

Surrounded by players from both sides, Bayindir was only able to palm the ball onto the head of Calafiori with the Italian nodding home from a yard out.

Following the match, Keane and Richards were involved in a heated debate about the goal in the Sky Sports studio.

The pundits failed to see eye-to-eye on the United keeper's decision-making for the goal.

As Richards attempted to explain his stance that Bayindir needed more protection from the Arsenal players by his teammates, Keane fumed: "Micah, this is big boy stuff."

He continued: "There's going to be mismatches. If they've got a lot more players bigger than you're leads, then you're going to be outmatched somewhere."

Bayindir was unable to claw away a Rice corner as Calafiori scored the winning goalCredit: Getty

Richards hit back by arguing: "But not in the centre (of the goal)."

Keane replied: "That's the goalkeeper, you can't babysit a goalkeeper."

His fellow pundit did agree on Bayindir's fault in the goal, though, admitting: "I agree with you that the goalkeeper should definitely do better.

"But I also believe he should be protected a lot more."

Why did Onana not play?

Amorim had been asked about his selection choice between the sticks prior to the match.

With Onana only returning to training days before the fixture, he opted against playing his first-choice goalkeeper despite him being available.

Meanwhile, veteran Tom Heaton was included on the substitutes bench ahead of him.

The Portuguese explained: "We try to choose the best players for each game, so next week is a different life.

"This week, we chose these players. No (he is not injured), he’s recovered but the other guys did so well during pre-season, so I need to balance that."

Onana has not played for United since their post-season friendly against the ASEAN All-Stars in May.

Meanwhile, Bayindir made four pre-season appearances for the Red Devils.

Amorim's side are next in action away to Fulham next Sunday before a trip to Grimsby in the Carabao Cup on August 27.

- Ciaran Wiseman

JOHN OBI MIKEL ON JOINING CHELSEA AMID INTEREST FROM MANCHESTER UNITED

 

BRYAN MBEUMO LANDS AT OLD TRAFFORD

 

MAN UTD STAR MARCUS RASHFORD 'SACKED' AS HE GETS 'CLOSER' TO BECOMING 'A GARETH BALE RAGEN'

Marcus Rashford has been linked with a move to Barcelona.

Man Utd forward Marcus Rashford is now ‘closer’ to sealing a move to Barcelona after Aston Villa chose not to take up their option, according to reports.

Rashford left Old Trafford in the January transfer window as Aston Villa took him on loan for the remainder of the season after a falling out with Ruben Amorim.

The Man Utd forward was directly involved in ten goals in 17 matches at Villa Park in a successful loan spell that has once again boosted his reputation around Europe, to the delight of the Red Devils.

It is clear that Rashford has to leave this summer unless there is an incredible U-turn from Amorim, who publicly stated in January that he’d rather play his goalkeeper coach than the Man Utd forward.

When asked why Rashford wasn’t being selected, Amorim replied in a press conference: “It’s always the same reason: the training, the way I see a footballer should do in life. It’s every day, every detail.

“If things don’t change, I will not change. It’s the same situation for every player, if you do the maximum and right things we can use every player.

READ: Transfer rumour power ranking: Man Utd eye Villa star, Spurs to raid West Ham?

“You can see on the bench we miss a bit of pace on the bench. But I would put [Man Utd goalkeeper coach Jorge] Vital before a player who doesn’t give the maximum every day.”

Amorim did admit that he was “really happy” to see Rashford doing well on his loan spell, he commented in April: “All players on loan will return and then the club will decide what to do at the end of the season. The talent of Rashford, Antony… we are really happy because if you put players on loan you want them to perform.”

But Rashford is still expected to leave Old Trafford this summer with Aston Villa confirming his departure on Monday and ending any speculation that they could trigger the £40m option for the England international.

And reports in Spain claim that Rashford is ‘closer to Barca after being sacked’ by Aston Villa and ‘remains on the agenda’ at the Catalan giants.

Rashford, who is also attracting interest from Bayern Munich, could now ‘arrive for a reasonable price’ at Barcelona with Man Utd making ‘it very clear that they have no room in their plans for the English star’.

His departure from Aston Villa ‘once again opens the door for him to end up at Camp Nou’ with the Man Utd forward ‘still dreaming of joining’ Barcelona.

But Barcelona boss Hansi Flick ‘does not approve’ of the England international’s arrival – despite Deco’s admission that the La Liga side were considering him – and it ‘makes Rashford’s arrival extremely difficult’.

Amid rumours he could end up at Barcelona, Man Utd academy graduate Demetri Mitchell reckons Rashford would be a Gareth Bale ‘regen’ if he ended up playing in La Liga.

Mitchell wrote on X: ‘Rashford in La Liga would be frightening when he gets back to his best, could be like a Bale Regen.’

Another former team-mate of Rashford’s, Timothy Fosu-Mensah is hopeful that the Man Utd forward can be “happy” wherever he ends up next season.

Fosu-Mensah told The Independent: “I just want him to be happy. Everybody just wants him to be happy. The most important things is for him to feel good, for him to feel happy. Look, the quality is definitely there. Nobody needs to say anything about this quality, because he’s a top player.”

- Joe Williams

RUBEN AMORIM PRAISES MANCHESTER UNITED UNSUNG HERO 'WHO NEEDED 10 MINUTES' TO SHINE IN ATHLETIC CLUB WIN

Ruben Amorim piled the praise on his Manchester United substitutes after they inspired a comeback victory over Athletic Club in the Europa League semi-final second leg. Mikel Jauregizar gave the visitors a deserved lead at Old Trafford but the Basque club failed to capitalise on their dominance as United staged an impressive second-half performance.

Mason Mount drew the second leg level with a stunning effort from the edge of the box, before Casemiro headed in a second to put his side ahead on the night. Rasmus Hojlund poked in a third to seal the victory and Mount grabbed a spectacular brace with an effort from close to the halfway line.

Mount and fellow substitute Amad Diallo drew most of the praise for their contribution from the bench, though Amorim was also full of praise for Kobbie Mainoo, who helped United control the midfield battle in the closing stages of the match.

Mainoo the unsung hero

Speaking after the 4-1 victory over Athletic Club on Thursday night, Ruben Amorim made sure to praise the Manchester United substitutes for their impact. Most of the praise was for Mason Mount, though the United head coach also drew attention to the role Kobbie Mainoo played from the bench.

"I'm so happy for him. He is such a player. He works really hard, he has quality," Amorim told TNT Sports. "I really like Kobbie Mainoo, just 10 minutes but everything he did was really good and sometimes you're on the bench and can change the game.

“When you see that kind of guy like Mason working hard every day, eating well, having ice baths, when you have this kind of player you just want to help him. He is perfect for this position as he can be a midfielder, but also runs like a winger so I'm really happy for him.

"When you have a full squad you can think about the game. Sometimes we're surviving with people in different positions, but with more options you can change the game and push forwards and these things can help you win games."

- Rich Fay

FORMER ROCHDALE MIDFIELDER THOMPSON DIES AT 36

Former Rochdale midfielder Joe Thompson has died at the age of 36.

He was diagnosed with cancer for a third time in April last year, five years after he retired from playing.

Thompson was found to have stage four lymphoma - a type of blood cancer - which had spread to his lungs after twice recovering from the disease during his playing career.

The Bath-born player began and finished his career with Rochdale, and had three spells with the club.

Rochdale said they were "devastated" and that he had passed away peacefully at home on Thursday with his family by his side.

"We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality," Rochdale said., external

"He faced every battle head-on, both on and off the pitch. His journey and indomitable spirit have been an inspiration for everyone who has been touched by his story.

"Above all of that, Joe was a loving husband to Chantelle and an incredible father to Thailula and Athena Rae.

"Our thoughts are with Joe's family and friends at this incredibly sad time."

Thompson was first diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013 and again in 2017.

But, after twice being given the all-clear, he notably went on to score the goal which saw Rochdale avoid relegation from League One in 2018.

He retired from playing in 2019 after making 203 appearances for Rochdale and saying he had "pushed his body to the absolute limit".

Thompson's wife Chantelle said during his illness he had "walked every step with courage and pride".

"Joe has made such an impact on so many people and we are forever grateful for him blessing us with his presence and for being so strong and staying with us as long as he did against the odds," she said.

"I know he will be deeply missed by everyone and the world will not be the same without his contagious energy."

Thompson came through Manchester United's academy from the age of nine before going on to join Dale, where he spent the majority of his 13-year career.

He also played for Tranmere Rovers, Carlisle United, Southport and Bury.

He was first diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma while at Tranmere in 2013 and was given the all-clear the following year.

After being diagnosed with cancer again in March 2017 during his third spell with Dale, he was able to return to football during the 2017-18 season after being told he was in "complete remission".

In his finest moment for Rochdale, Thompson scored against Charlton Athletic to secure their place in League One for another season, describing his goal as "written in the stars, fate, destiny".

Following the end of his playing career, Thompson worked in the media as a pundit as well as mentoring and as a motivational speaker.

In October 2024, he took part in a 21-mile fundraising walk in order to raise awareness of cancer treatments following his third diagnosis.

About 300 people took part in the walk from Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium to Rochdale's Crown Oil Arena home.

Tributes to Thompson poured in following news of his passing.

Manchester United described him as "a man who epitomised our club's values," before adding: "We are saddened to share that Joe Thompson has passed away.

"A warm personality who had a deep connection with our club from a young age, our thoughts are with Joe's family and friends at this difficult time."

Tranmere and Carlisle both sent their condolences to Thompson's family and said they would be holding a minute's applause at their home games on Friday.

"Joe was an inspiration to all those who knew him," both clubs said.

Bury added: "Our thoughts are with Joe's family and friends at this sad time. RIP Joe - Once A Shaker Always A Shaker."

Southport said: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of former player Joe Thompson. We send our deepest condolences to all of Joe's friends and family at this tough time."

In 2019, Thompson received the Sir Tom Finney award at the annual EFL awards ceremony, an honour presented to a player who has had an outstanding career and contributed an exception amount to the Football League and game in general.

The EFL described Thompson as "an inspiration to so many" and added: "The EFL is deeply saddened by the passing of Joe Thompson. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and former clubs at this very difficult time."