Altay Bayindir is poised to be one of Manchester United’s first sales of the summer, with Samuel Luckhurst claiming the goalkeeper is ‘expected’ to sign for Besiktas in June.All aspects of the deal are seemingly set in stone, meaning it’s now just a case of waiting until the window opens for the player to complete the formalities of his move.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYAltay Bayindir to leave United after three yearsUnited paid £4.3 million to sign Bayindir from Fenerbahce back in 2023, but only brought him in to play second fiddle to fellow new arrival and ‘keeper, Andre Onana.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustThe 28-year-old is tied to Old Trafford until June 2027, so it remains to be seen what kind of fee United will demand to facilitate his exit. Presumably, it’ll be a low one, given he’s been deemed surplus to requirements in the lead-up to the summer.Bayindir has made every matchday squad since Michael Carrick took the reins, though he hasn’t featured since September 27.When it became clear Onana was incapable of being the side’s No.1, then-manager Ruben Amorim promoted Bayindir for the beginning of 2025/2026.Yet, when he too failed to impress, INEOS were made to act quickly in the closing days of the window by bringing in a quality shot-stopper, eventually doing so on deadline day in the form of Senne Lammens. Appearances Goals conceded Clean sheets 6 11 0 Bayindir’s 25/26 Premier League recordBayindir will depart while senior counterpart signs new dealHe has enjoyed a stellar debut season between the sticks in M16, which has only further confirmed that his Turkish counterpart has no future at United – at least not if he wants regular game time. A dominant display from Senne Lammens 🧤 🔴 @ManUtd pic.twitter.com/IKcAEjr5NC — Premier League (@premierleague) May 9, 2026While Bayindir will depart, veteran Tom Heaton, 40, is expected to sign a one-year contract to stay on the books until 2027.He hasn’t played a competitive fixture in over three years, but it’s thought that his expertise and influence on the squad and around the dressing room are invaluable.
After Hojlund deal: In-contract Man Utd man who’s made every squad under Carrick now ‘expected’ to return to homeland
“I see Vitinha”: Ex-United coach urges INEOS to sign elite PL maestro, he will be even better than Anderson
Manchester United have been urged to sign Mateus Fernandes as the West Ham United maestro has a higher ceiling than the club’s other targets in midfield. Rebuilding the Midfield The Red Devils are prioritising an overhaul in the middle of the pitch this summer as Casemiro is set to play his final game this weekend. INEOS have decided against triggering a one-year extension in the Brazilian’s contract, while his South American successor, Manuel Ugarte, has proven incapable of ascending to the throne as the team’s anchor in midfield. Two big-money signings are expected to replace Casemiro, while a third could arrive if a buyer can be found for Ugarte. Turkish champions Galatasaray have been strongly linked. The leading target is Nottingham Forest talisman Elliot Anderson, who impressed with two assists in yesterday’s clash with the Tricky Trees. But competition will prove fierce for the 23-year-old England international, with Manchester City understood to be leading the race for his signature. Crystal Palace playmaker Adam Wharton is another name high on the radar, while last summer’s pursuit of Brighton & Hove Albion enforcer Carlos Baleba is expected to be revisited. Sandro Tonali was also considered, though Newcastle United’s exorbitant asking price has deterred the Italian’s suitors. This has led to Fernandes, West Ham United’s 21-year-old box-to-box dynamo, emerging as an alternative, with the Hammers’ expected relegation giving hope of a cut-price deal being struck. Initial demands of around £85 million will drop closer to £60m if Nuno Espírito Santo’s side finish in the bottom three. And United’s former coach, Neil Harris, believes this could prove a blessing in disguise as Fernandes has the potential to become an even better midfielder than Anderson or Tonali – even drawing a comparison to Paris Saint-Germain superstar, Vitinha. “When I look at him, I see Vitinha” Harris, who worked at Old Trafford for 21 years in the academy, is adamant it is right that Fernandes is “on the radar” this summer as a target because he is already operating at a “very, very high level.” Speaking to The Breakdown (as relayed by TEAMtalk), the 48-year-old showered the youngster with praise. “I love him. If you didn’t know his age, you’d be thinking that’s a mature player. He’s the kind of player who doesn’t immediately come to the eye if you’re not watching the game, but when you watch him in detail, I think some of the things he does is very, very high level. “I love the players who do the simple things to a high level, and he does all of them. Whether it’s receiving the ball in tight areas, no-touch turns, screens, getting his body in, and engaging contact. For a player so young at 21 years, really exciting player.” Hailing from south Portugal, Fernandes reminds Harris of his compatriots, Bernardo Silva and Vitinha, two of the finest midfielders in world football at present. “He’s a bit of a Bernardo Silva, isn’t he. When he first came to City, he was a particular type of player…and that is the kind of player that becomes very attractive for a sporting director. “You look at PSG [midfield of Vitinha and Joao Neves], and that is their model: players who can receive the ball in tight areas and can play anywhere. That type of player is becoming so attractive to coaches because of that versatility”. Harris concludes that the former Sporting CP star, who was sold to Southampton despite being highly rated by Ruben Amorim, has got potential which neither Anderson nor Wharton can match: “I think he’s got levels that maybe Anderson and Wharton haven’t got to go. When I look at him, I see Vitinha. I see him being a conductor in games with his tempo and things like that.” Final Thoughts Vitinha is the gold standard for midfielders, with the 26-year-old maestro on the verge of delivering back-to-back Champions Leagues for PSG. Any comparison to such a player is the biggest compliment that a footballer can be afforded. United must move heaven and earth to secure Fernandes’ signature this summer as there will not be a better talent available on the market at his price range should West Ham United be relegated. While Anderson is a similarly impressive operator, he will cost nearly double; Wharton is a joy to watch in possession, but lacks the dynamism Fernandes pairs with his technique. Put simply, there must be two Fernandes‘s plying their trade at Old Trafford next season. Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.
Huge injury update provided on United star ahead of final game of the season vs. Brighton – report
A huge fitness update has been provided on Manchester United striker Benjamin Sesko ahead of the final game of the season against Brighton & Hove Albion. Sesko injured Sesko has not featured for United since May 3, when he sustained an injury in the thrilling 3-2 victory over Liverpool. He netted United’s second goal of the game, throwing his body at the ball after Freddie Woodman failed to properly clear Bruno Fernandes’ header. The Slovenian had been dealing with a shin injury, which he aggravated after Ibrahima Konate recklessly shoved him against the advertising boards at Old Trafford. Sesko has not trained with his teammates since. He also missed the goalless stalemate with Sunderland and Sunday afternoon’s 3-2 triumph against Nottingham Forest. The forward was present at Old Trafford for the Forest meeting but was not part of the matchday squad. In his absence, Bryan Mbeumo led the line, with Matheus Cunha and Amad flanking him on either side. Luke Shaw, Cunha and Mbeumo all got on the scoresheet as United secured third place. According to Samuel Luckhurst of The Sun, Sesko will not feature in United’s last game of the campaign against Brighton, meaning his season has already ended. Sesko update Luckhurst writes, “BENJAMIN SESKO is expected to miss Manchester United’s final game of the season at Brighton.” “United decided to let Sesko miss their remaining matches so he can recover from a shin injury he aggravated in the 3-2 win against Liverpool on May 3.” Seeing as Sesko will not be participating in the World Cup following Slovenia’s failure to qualify for the competition, the soonest he can return to action is on July 18, when United face Wrexham in a pre-season clash in Helsinki. Luckhurst adds that Michael Carrick could field a heavily-rotated side against Brighton to give opportunities to a couple of youngsters. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
United agree new deal with “crucial figure” behind transformation under Carrick – Fabrizio Romano
Manchester United assistant coach Steve Holland has put pen to paper on a new deal with the club, Fabrizio Romano has revealed. From Despair to Delight Holland, 56, was brought in to be Michael Carrick‘s right-hand man when the former midfielder was appointed caretaker coach in January following INEOS’s bombshell decision to sack Ruben Amorim. This sent shockwaves across Old Trafford, with supporters fearing yet another dismal season under the new hierarchy after the worst campaign in the Premier League era last year, culminating in the abject defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the final of the Europa League. But Carrick, capably supported by Holland and a coaching staff which includes Travis Binnion, Jonathan Woodgate, Craig Mawson and Jonny Evans, has transformed the mood from despair to delight across his five months at the helm. United secured Champions League qualification with three games to spare, putting Liverpool to the sword at the Theatre of Dreams with a late Kobbie Mainoo winner in the process. A third-place finish, the highest since Erik ten Hag’s debut campaign in the 2022/23 season, was confirmed by yesterday’s 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest. Bryan Mbeumo clinched the three points courtesy of Bruno Fernandes, who matched the Premier League’s all-time assist record with an excellent cross for the Cameroonian. There is a sense of growing positivity heading into a pivotal summer, where the identification of a successor to the departing Casemiro will make or break the transfer window. The Right-Hand Man Carrick has been confirmed to be remaining in place after INEOS decided he was the best candidate available. The Wallsend native has signed a two-year contract, with the option for an additional twelve months. But Italian transfer expert Romano reveals Holland, the right-hand man who has been integral to United’s improvements, particularly from a defensive perspective, has also been offered – and now accepted – the same deal. 🚨 Not only Carrick: Steve Holland has also signed new contract at Manchester United. Seen as crucial figure into Carrick’s backroom staff, Holland stays and puts pen to paper until June 2028 plus option until 2029. pic.twitter.com/Yh7Us8JfGx — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 18, 2026 Tweet: “Not only Carrick: Steve Holland has also signed new contract at Manchester United. Seen as crucial figure into Carrick’s backroom staff, Holland stays and puts pen to paper until June 2028 plus option until 2029.” Holland has a wealth of experience at the highest levels of both club and international football, having been Gareth Southgate’s assistant for England and a key member of Chelsea’s coaching staff across multiple managers, including Jose Mourinho. The Stockport native, who is a boyhood United fan, is known for being a strict figure in the dressing room, often playing the ‘bad cop’ to the head coach’s ‘good cop’. He is an outstanding tactical mind, with a particular focus on defence and transitions. It is no surprise United have significantly improved their defensive structure since his arrival. Final Thoughts In terms of auditions, Carrick and his coaching staff have exceeded even the most optimistic of INEOS’s predictions. And with their primary targets, such as Luis Enrique or Thomas Tuchel, proving unobtainable, the decision to stick rather than twist is a sensible one. Along with the head coach and his assistant, the rest of the support staff are expected to also remain in place as United’s hierarchy look to maintain the sense of stability ‘Carrick & Co.’ have brought on and off the pitch. Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.
United leader set to sign new deal to stay as agreement with club nears – report
Manchester United goalkeeper Tom Heaton is reportedly poised to remain at the club beyond the end of the season, as he nears an agreement. Goalkeeping overhaul United are set to sanction major changes to their goalkeeping department this summer. Andre Onana is expected to leave following the impressive rise of Senne Lammens. Onana has spent the 2025/26 season out on loan at Turkish outfit Trabzonspor. It’s believed that the Cameroonian is eager to return to United and fight for his place, but United want a parting of ways. Trabzonspor are said to be keen on keeping Onana permanently. There is also Altay Bayindir, who has primarily served as a backup goalkeeper since his switch from Fenerbahce three years ago. Bayindir was given a run of games by Ruben Amorim at the start of the campaign but he failed to justify his selection and eventually lost his place to Lammens. Besiktas appear to be showing the strongest interest in Bayindir and it looks increasingly likely that his time at Old Trafford is over. Last week, The Peoples Person covered a report which stated that United were “exploring a new contract” for Heaton. His current terms expire in June. Now, Samuel Luckhurst of The Sun has provided an update on the situation, indicating that Heaton is all but guaranteed to stay. Heaton update Luckhurst writes, “TOM HEATON is set to sign a new one-year contract with Manchester United.” “United expect to agree a renewal with third-choice goalkeeper Heaton, who rejoined the club in 2021.” “Retaining former England international Heaton would also ease United’s issues with homegrown players when they re-enter the Champions League next season.” Heaton last played for United in the 2023 League Cup semi-final second leg clash against Nottingham Forest. The veteran shot-stopper is part of the leadership group in the dressing room. Feature image Orlando Ramirez via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
United pulling out all stops to sign £152m superstar, CL giants ready to sell their talisman – report
Joshua Zirkzee has failed to make the most of what may have been his final opportunity to cement his place at Manchester United. With the in-form Benjamin Sesko sidelined, Michael Carrick started Zirkzee against Sunderland. However, the Dutchman was substituted just after the hour mark after struggling to make an impact away from home. Against Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford, he was introduced late in the game. Zirkzee was handed several chances to get on the scoresheet, but could not add to his goal tally of two. However, now, Zirkzee could help United bolster their frontline with a high-profile attacker. AC Milan open to lowering their demands for Rafael Leao According to CaughtOffside, AC Milan are more open to “creative offers” for Rafael Leao than they were previously. Leao is still under contract until 2028 and has a huge €175 million release clause (£152.2m). However, the electric winger is facing an uncertain future at San Siro after a difficult campaign, during which he was jeered off by his own fans. Eager to resolve the situation, Milan would reportedly negotiate far below that figure if the right proposal arrives. The report states: “Leão is exactly the kind of player who gets big clubs excited. He is quick, powerful, stylish on the ball and capable of doing things that most wide forwards simply cannot. When he is confident, he can carry the ball from deep, beat defenders in isolation and completely change the mood of a match.” As such, his availability has alerted Europe’s biggest clubs, including United. Manchester United ready for player-plus-cash deal United need more “explosion in attack” and there is a feeling that they require “a truly dominant left-sided threat” who can scare defenders every week. In that regard, the Portugal international makes perfect sense. It is claimed United are exploring a player-plus-cash deal and could offer players such as Marcus Rashford, Joshua Zirkzee or Manuel Ugarte to lower the fee for Leao. Rafael Leao Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Serie A28935-1,839′ Italy Cup21—107′ Supercoppa Italiana—— Total301035-1,946′ Milan could allegedly open talks from around €50m if a strong player is included. Zirkzee is thought to be one of the names who could “become relevant”. Before moving to United, Zirkzee was regarded as one of Serie A’s most promising players, thanks to his prolific stint at Bologna. Featured images Marco Luzzani via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
Luckhurst: Carrick dealt early blow for final-day clash as in-form United star is ruled out vs Brighton
Benjamin Sesko is poised to miss Manchester United’s final game of 2025/2026 through injury.After securing a third-placed finish following yesterday’s 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest, the Reds travel to the Amex on Sunday in hopes of ending the season on a high against a notorious bogey team.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYBenjamin Sesko to miss out vs Brighton and Hove AlbionYet, they will have to do so without Sesko.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustSamuel Luckhurst has revealed this morning that the Slovenian international is unlikely to return in time to play again and finish off his season. #mufc prepared to let Sesko sit out final game at Brighton to protect shin injuryhttps://t.co/ptVmbU1jfI — Samuel Luckhurst (@samuelluckhurst) May 18, 2026As a result, it means he will have recorded 11 Premier League goals in 30 appearances (17 as a starter) in his maiden term in England, which is a pretty respectable return for the 22-year-old. Appearances Starts Goals Minutes played 13 6 7 595 Sesko’s record under CarrickWhy is Sesko injured?Sesko missed out on Sunday, as well as against Sunderland a week prior, after a persistent shin problem was re-aggravated when facing Liverpool on May 3.He was barged off the field by Ibrahima Konate and crashed down the steep drop into the advertising boards, leading to him being withdrawn at the interval after scoring in the first half. Manchester United are FLYING! Benjamin Šeško doubles their advantage! 🔴 pic.twitter.com/MNQuFma3kO — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026There were hopes he would make a swift recovery in time to continue his scintillating form and add to his tally before the culmination of the season, but it doesn’t look like that’ll be possible.Who else is unavailable for United?United confirmed last Friday that Matthijs de Ligt had decided to undergo surgery for the back injury that has kept him out of action since November 2025.It means there is no chance of a World Cup inclusion for the centre-half. However, it should resolve the ongoing issue he has been trying to rehabilitate from for the last six months.Then, he will ideally be ready for the beginning/early stages of 2026/2027.
Neville says there’s one clear ‘exceptional’ Casemiro successor who’s a cut above INEOS’ alternative targets
There’s an acceptance at Manchester United heading into the summer window that their acquisition of Casemiro’s successor needs to be spot on.If not, they risk botching up one of the most pivotal parts of the squad’s rebuild in recent years.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYUnited got a closer look at Anderson in action on SundayThat’s why Gary Neville believes that there is one candidate who’s a cut above the rest in comparison to INEOS’ other targets: Elliot Anderson.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustThe Nottingham Forest talisman joins the likes of Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba and Ederson on United’s shortlist, with the club planning to sign at least two midfielders when the transfer period gets underway.Casemiro bid farewell to the Old Trafford faithful yesterday in his final home appearance, while his ideal replacement, Anderson, was sharing the pitch with him.Although United sealed a 3-2 win to rubber-stamp their third-placed finish, Anderson was a bright spark throughout the contest.The 23-year-old recorded two stellar assists for Morato and Morgan Gibbs-White, ensuring he did his bit to try and get a result over the line for the visitors. Morato scores his first goal for Nottingham Forest! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Ed4vWrw75H — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 17, 2026In fact, Anderson performed so well that he earned the highest Fotmob rating (nine) of any player across both sides after registering the most touches (110), most defensive contributions (20) and joint-most dribbles (three).He also made 14 final-third passes, four accurate crosses, four long balls and won nine ground duels.Given that Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada were all in attendance, it’ll only intensify their desire to add the player to United’s ranks ahead of 2026/2027. Bruno Fernandes and Elliot Anderson after the game 👀 🎥 [@NathSalt1] pic.twitter.com/hyopNAbWGP — utdreport (@utdreport) May 17, 2026What Neville had to say about ‘exceptional’ AndersonNeville would certainly back any move made by his former club, as he said of the England international post-match: “What I like about Anderson is the fact that he looks forward and he contributes.“The two crosses for the goals were exceptional. I see too many crabs playing central midfield. You can’t have too many people who play five-yard passes back and sideways. You need to put players in there who are going to look forward and punch passes through the lines and have their heads up.“Elliot Anderson can do that. He can take set-pieces. So for me, he would be an outstanding candidate to come here.“But if you believe what you hear, Manchester City also want him, so if it’s a straight fight between the two Manchester clubs, it’ll be interesting to see who he chooses.”
Dixon: £35m Man Utd man is ‘an Arsenal player’, he will 100% be leaving Old Trafford this summer
Lee Dixon believes that when he’s at his best, Marcus Rashford is a perfect fit for Arsenal.The forward, valued at £35 million by Transfermarkt, will be leaving Manchester United this summer, and it isn’t a guarantee that he’ll be joining Barcelona permanently.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYArsenal among Rashford’s suitors if Barcelona switch collapsesIn fact, reports have even suggested that Arsenal have begun considering a shock swoop for Rashford in the event that Barcelona opt against activating his £26m buy option.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustWhile the player is keen to stay put at Camp Nou after a successful season, the decision is out of his hands. Marcus Rashford: “If I was a magician, I would stay at Barcelona” 🪄 pic.twitter.com/H1rtRT75HA — BBC Sport (@BBCSport) May 10, 2026The La Liga champions will have to shell out the full fee to United in the coming weeks, or else he will return to Carrington for pre-season while an alternative move is explored.How Rashford has fared in CataloniaHansi Flick and the board are delighted with the impact Rashford has had on their season, though.In 48 appearances for the Blaugrana, he has returned a hugely impressive 14 goals and 14 assists across all competitions.His stellar free-kick conversion against Real Madrid last Sunday helped Barcelona on their way to confirming their status as league winners, having also won the Spanish Super Cup via an El Clásico victory back in January. 1 – Marcus Rashford is the first Barcelona player to score a free-kick against Real Madrid since Lionel Messi in October 2012. Classic. pic.twitter.com/g14ynFmeTw — OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) May 10, 2026What Dixon had to say about RashfordIt remains to be seen whether anything could materialise between Rashford and the Gunners, or even if he’d even be open to representing one of United’s direct Premier League rivals after spending his entire career (21 years) on their books. Appearances Goals Assists 426 138 79 Rashford’s complete record for UnitedDixon, despite admiring the 28-year-old’s capabilities, does have his reservations over a potential transfer.“Being an ex-Manchester United player, Marcus Rashford to Arsenal doesn’t sit well with me because I don’t really like United,” the pundit told BOYLE Sports, as relayed by the Metro. “But as a player, I’ve always been a big fan of his.“Obviously, he dropped off his levels. What happened at the end of his United career was unfortunate. It didn’t end particularly well. He flitted in and out of the Barcelona set-up.“He’s a player on his day that is absolutely, you know, he’s an absolute Arsenal player; he’s got pace, he’s direct.“However, I’m not sure you can trust him, so I think Arsenal could do better.”
As well as Casemiro, Malacia: One Man Utd man left Old Trafford yesterday knowing he’s played his final game for the club
Given he was an unused substitute once again yesterday, it seems relatively safe to assume Manuel Ugarte has already played his final game for Manchester United.That is, of course, unless Michael Carrick grants the midfielder some minutes out of sympathy during Sunday’s campaign-ender away to Brighton and Hove Albion.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYManuel Ugarte oversees quiet Old Trafford goodbyeBoth Casemiro’s and Tyrell Malacia’s impending exits were acknowledged by the club following the 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest, with their contracts due to expire at the end of June.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustHowever, the fact that Ugarte’s move will take some negotiating when the window opens means he was unable to have the send-off he’d have liked in the side’s final home outing of 2025/2026.Instead, he watched on from the bench for the entirety of the clash, but he did take part in the lap of appreciation at full-time. 🚨Manuel Ugarte walks down the OT tunnel for potentially one last time.👋❤️ pic.twitter.com/iWf7a2BlNJ — (fan) Zaid ✍🏼🇾🇪 (@ZaidBalll) May 17, 2026INEOS preparing to tear up Ugarte’s contractIt has previously been reported that in the aftermath of the Reds’ dismal defeat to Leeds United last month, Sir Jim Ratcliffe personally green-lit Ugarte’s sale when visiting Carrington.The Uruguayan international oversaw a disastrous display in the middle of the park after being given the nod by Michael Carrick for the first time.Ugarte’s starting XI inclusion only came due to Kobbie Mainoo being injured, so he dropped out of the side for the subsequent fixtures, and has yet to feature since.Indeed, he was unused for the games against Chelsea, Brentford, Liverpool and Forest, and was ruled out of the trip to Sunderland last week. Appearances Starts Unused Minutes played 7 1 8 155 Ugarte’s league record under CarrickIt’s a sorry end to the 25-year-old’s M16 tenure, especially when considering that he’s only been on the books for 20 months.Yet, fans appreciate that kind of ruthlessness from INEOS, where they can make snap decisions to offload players who have been deemed surplus to requirements (Antony and Rasmus Hojlund spring to mind).
