There are huge expectations around Manchester United’s 18-year-old wonderkid Chido Obi, and rightfully so, given his phenomenal goalscoring record. United made the move to sign Obi from Premier League rivals Arsenal in 2024, when the Danish striker was just sixteen years old. To the surprise of many, he found himself amongst the first team squad just months later, eventually becoming one of the youngest players to represent the Red Devils in a Premier League match. There were questions as to whether Obi’s involvement in the first team squad had come too soon, though. These questions have become more frequent following a disappointing campaign this year. With that in mind, it is vitally important that United find the talented striker a loan move that allows him to showcase his talents and further develop as a footballer. A bright start To say that Obi hit the ground running at United would perhaps be an understatement, given he scored a hat-trick on his first start for the U18s. Mere months later, he made his first team debut, with Ruben Amorim bringing him on in the 90th minute of a 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur. With injuries mounting up and a lack of attacking options, the Dane became a regular in first team squads, going on to make eight appearances for the club and often making a positive impact without managing to find the back of the net. He finally netted his first two senior goals for the Red Devils in a pre-season friendly against Hong Kong. A solid second season United opted against sending Obi out on loan last summer, instead choosing to give him a full season in the academy at Old Trafford. The hope was that this would allow him to develop out of the spotlight. However, Amorim took a strange swipe at the Glostrup native in November, calling out his struggle for regular playing time in the U21s. He has proven his former manager wrong, though, racking up eighteen appearances for the U21 team and finding the net nine times. Next season is key While Obi has clearly developed his game during his time in the academy, it is now time for the test of the lower leagues of English football. Experiencing the physicality of such a league would surely help him bulk up, further preparing him for the demands of Premier League football. A good loan move will ensure Obi returns to Old Trafford a more complete player, whereas a bad loan move has the potential to stunt his development, effectively wasting a year of his career. Ethan Wheatley is a good example of a current United player who has struggled on loan this season. Despite making 37 appearances for Bradford, Wheatley has managed just seven goal involvements and often looks out of his depth in the league. Dan Gore, however, has enjoyed a much more successful loan in League One. Despite Rotherham’s season ending in a disappointing relegation to League Two, Gore produced a series of stellar performances throughout the season. He was recently voted the club’s player of the season by a local paper. When assessing suitable destinations for Obi, the recruitment team need to prioritise how important the fine finisher will be for his new team and whether their playing style will bring the best out of his game. If he ends up at the right club, he could be in for a very special year that allows him to build on his incredibly positive start to life at Old Trafford. Featured image Lewis Storey 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 Mike Walsh Mike Walsh is an experienced freelance journalist who has written about a variety of topics over multiple years. He is very happy to finally be writing about the Red Devils, especially now that his favourite player, Michael Carrick, is in charge of the team.
United will unleash 18-yo wonderkid as an unstoppable goal-scoring demon with one key decision – opinion
United ace with an “eye for goal” sparks excitement by admitting fans are yet to see his best
Last summer was arguably Manchester United’s best transfer window in years. The signings: Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Senne Lammens have been quite impactful and thoroughly worthy of the millions Ineos splashed. Well ahead of next season, it will be interesting to see how the four kick on and help United battle on multiple fronts. And as we look forward to what they have in store, Mbeumo has gone ahead and made some promises, ones fans will hope he keeps. Mbeumo: You are yet to see the best version of me In an interview with The i paper, Mbeumo admits: “I had a good start, I would say. But every year in my career, I have always come back better than I was before. Every season, I want to improve. If it hasn’t been enough, it can only be better. I always wanted more, even if it was going really well. I always tried to beat records. “I’m still happy because obviously it’s been a top season, especially collectively, so I think with hard work, it can only get better.” Mbeumo was certainly revolutionary in his first few months at United. Even before Cunha and Sesko found their footing, he was the man electrifying United’s attack. Tricky last few months Yet in the second half of this season, he has drifted somewhat. Had he maintained his brilliance, he would have better numbers than his current tally of nine league goals and three assists. Worryingly, in his last nine games, he has neither scored nor assisted, with his last goal coming in early February when he netted in United’s 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur. Mbeumo needs to rediscover his mojo It is concerning how little impact he has had these last few months. Hopefully, he can shake off that poor form and make good on his promises next season. Keen to take this United project to the next level, United certainly need everyone firing. Mbeumo, at his best, should drive this team to glory; even Michael Carrick knows it, having once confessed that he sees the Cameroon international as one with an “eye for goal”. Featured image by Michael Regan/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 Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.
Standout United starlet makes no secret of his sky-high objective ahead of FA Youth Cup final vs. City
Manchester United talent Yuel Helafu has revealed he is looking to etch his name into the club’s history books when he and his teammates face Manchester City in the FA Youth Cup final on Thursday. Helafu’s rise Helafu joined United at the start of the season after impressing against the club’s developmental side with his grassroots team. He caught the attention of United figures, who moved swiftly to sign him and add him to the academy ranks. The defender has since featured prominently for the Under-18s under Darren Fletcher. Such has been the trajectory of Helafu’s development that he has also lined up for the Under-21s, despite being just 17. Even more remarkably, Helafu has trained with the United first team this season, under both Ruben Amorim and interim head coach Michael Carrick. The teenager spoke to club media ahead of the FA Cup youth final against City and revealed his desire to secure the victory and make history as the latest United side to bag the prestigious trophy. Ambitious Helafu The Yorkshire-born player said, “I’m a United fan so it means everything playing for this club. I hope to represent them in the first team in the coming years. Winning the FA Youth Cup will mean everything. Obviously, the club has a massive history of winning it and it will be the 12th time if we win it. Hopefully, I can be part of the FA Youth Cup history at Man United.” “Even just wearing the suits [beforehand] is a good feeling. You look sharp, you look fresh.” He said about the coaching staff, “I think they’ve definitely helped us to get to where we are now. The detail that they give to us in training and games, wherever it may be, they help us so much. And Fletch and Col [Colin Little] have both been footballers, so they know how hard it is and they give us the best detail possible to make us the best players.” “He [Fletcher] will keep us calm. He’ll just make sure we’re ready for it because he knows, if we’re ready, then we can beat anyone.” Asked about his performances this term, Helafu remarked, “I’m happy. I’m proud of where I’ve come to. I’ve had different experiences, playing with the Under-18s and the Under-21s, training with the first team. Yeah, it’s all helped me to become the player that I am now.” “I’ve had a couple of positions. I think, when I first started out, I was like a winger and then I just got pushed about everywhere really – striker, winger. Eventually, when I was about 14, I played right-back in a couple of games and, from then, I just stayed there.” “I think, personally, I’m like an inverted full-back. So I like to go inside, connect in the middle, and, like, control the game from a right-back position. But, as a right-back, you’ve got to have the complete package. So I want to do the inside or outside role and everything.” He continued, “It was only last season when I became a proper inverted full-back, and then I’ve just taken it into this season and done well there. Obviously, you’ve got ones [right-backs] here that I can look up to.” “Noussair Mazraoui, Diogo Dalot. And then you’ve got Reece James, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Achraf Hakimi. All very good right-backs and I’ve just learned from them.” Carrick has made it a habit to watch youth games since his arrival at the club, and Helafu does not take his presence for granted. “It gives us an added drive, knowing that the first-team boss is watching, because we want to impress him. And that’s where we want to get to in the future. So just give him good ideas about us.” “I think we can all be proud of the season, definitely. But we want to show how good we’ve been with a trophy because, obviously, we lost in the Premier League Cup final, and I think winning the Youth Cup will be a statement of how much we’ve progressed and how good of a team we are.” The FA Youth Cup final kicks off at 19:00 BST at the Joie Stadium. Featured image Alex Livesey 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 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!
Official: United duo locked in fierce battle to land coveted honour
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes are competing to come out on top in the race to win a major accolade, it has been confirmed. Lethal partnership Casemiro and Fernandes have played a crucial role this season to help the club secure a sensational return to the Champions League after a two-year break. The pair were vital cogs under now-sacked head coach Ruben Amorim, and have even taken on greater responsibility since Michael Carrick was named as the Portuguese coach’s replacement. Fernandes and Casemiro have started all games they’ve been available for under Carrick. Casemiro only missed last weekened’s goalless stalemate with Sunderland but he is expected to be back for the upcoming meeting with Nottingham Forest, having trained with his teammates at Carrington today. Both Fernandes and Casemiro are chasing landmark milestones with just two games of the season left. Fernandes is on 19 assists, just one shy of matching the Premier League assist record, which is held jointly by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry. Meanwhile, Casemiro is one goal away from reaching double figures for the first time in his career. In a recent interview with Rio Ferdinand, Casemiro detailed how much he loves playing with Fernandes. The Brazilian hailed Fernandes’ killer instinct, which he said puts him in a completely different class to others. Fernandes has assisted six of Casemiro’s nine strikes. But the pair are rivalling each other to scoop up the latest PFA Fans’ Player of the Month award. Award battle Earlier on Wednesday, the PFA confirmed that Fernandes and Casemiro feature in a shortlist of six players who are in the running for the coveted prize. For either star to land the award, they will not only have to ward off competition from each other, but also from Jarrod Bowen (West Ham), Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City) and Noah Okafor (Leeds United). The PFA Select Car Leasing Fans’ Player of the Month nominees for April. 🏆 Premier League vote ➡️ https://t.co/Dr3epkHJal pic.twitter.com/aQyqmha9r5 — PFA (@PFA) May 13, 2026 You can vote for Casemiro and Fernandes here. The pair will be eager to link up once more on the pitch against Forest this weekend as they look to end the season strongly. Featured image Jan Kruger 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 make crucial decision about Carrick’s number two next season, it will be a masterstroke – report
Manchester United seem to be edging closer to appointing their new permanent head coach. Ruben Amorim was sacked after a hugely disappointing tenure, with the Red Devils languishing in sixth place, 11 points behind Aston Villa in third. At that stage, INEOS would have been happy with Europa League football, but caretaker head coach Michael Carrick had other ideas. He arrived as a breath of fresh air, notching memorable wins over Manchester City and Arsenal in his first two games in charge. Carrick deserves a new deal Performances have since tailed off but not results, with the Red Devils currently in third and having qualified for the Champions League with four games left to play. From utilising players in their natural positions to getting the best out of forgotten stars, the former United midfielder could not have done any more. As reported, Carrick is expected to be offered the head coach role. Steve Holland is also expected to be offered a new deal with him. Holland has impressed internally and been pivotal to the results in the past months. He planned to stay 6 months but #MUFC want him to stay longer https://t.co/MENcKeE4U5 pic.twitter.com/BAqjHnFlZE — Sully (@SullyTalkz) May 13, 2026 It marks a remarkable turnaround in fortunes, which explains why the co-owners are mulling over handing him the reins on a permanent basis. Not only Carrick, but even his support staff deserve credit for the upturn in form, most notably assistant head coach Steve Holland. Results would not have been possible without Steve Holland The former England and Chelsea assistant boss knows how to handle the pressure that comes with a job of this magnitude and it has shown in the way he has managed the squad. His arrival has certainly added defensive solidity to the team, while his coaching sessions have impressed players. Which is why, according to Sully, INEOS are also planning to offer the Englishman a new contract as well. “As reported, Carrick is expected to be offered the head coach role. Steve Holland is also expected to be offered a new deal with him. Steve Holland staying will be beneficial for Carrick “Holland has impressed internally and been pivotal to the results in the past months. He planned to stay 6 months but MUFC want him to stay longer,” Sully wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Having the experience of Steve Holland alongside him will help Carrick moving forward and, hopefully, the duo can stitch a long and successful partnership together at the Theatre of Dreams. Feature 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 Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
United plot to ruin Liverpool’s plan to sign all-action Dortmund star, £35m bid will seal the deal – report
Manchester United are interested in signing Borussia Dortmund defender Daniel Svensson, according to a new report. Swedish Army Knife Svensson has enjoyed a breakout season at Signal Iduna Park after signing for Die Schwarzgelben on a permanent deal last year. The Sweden international initially joined on loan from FC Nordsjælland in February 2025, with Dortmund chiefs impressed enough to then activate the £6.5 million buy-option the following summer. The 24-year-old left-back, who is capable of playing on both sides or in midfield, has made 44 appearances this season, emerging as a key player in Nico Kovac’s side. This positional versatility and tactical awareness make him an invaluable tool in a manager’s arsenal, while a report in Germany indicates his physicality and speed have put a number of clubs in England on red alert. Arsenal, Liverpool and Leeds United have been most strongly linked with a swoop this summer, but TEAMtalk reveals the Red Devils are also keeping close tabs on the flying full-back. Liverpool, in particular, are said to be keen as they look to reinforce their defence after a shambolic season at Anfield, giving United extra motivation to strike a deal ahead of their bitter rivals. United dispatch scouts United are understood to have dispatched scouts to attend Dortmund games on multiple occasions this season, with Svensson a target in their crosshairs. The report states that Jobe Bellingham, Nico Schlotterbeck and Karim Adeyemi are also under consideration. INEOS are intent on signing a new left-back to provide competition to Luke Shaw, as Patrick Dorgu will remain in his new role on the wing next season. Despite Shaw‘s awful injury record, the Englishman has stayed fit this year and managed to start every Premier League match. However, with the prospect of an increased schedule as European football will return to Old Trafford, additional support is needed to help him manage the workload. Svensson appears a perfect candidate, given he has the versatility to provide cover elsewhere on the pitch as well as the profile to thrive in England. It is described as an “open secret” he wants to play in the Premier League as well. Dortmund are understood to be asking for a fee in the region of £35 million, though the German giants may wait until after the World Cup, as an impressive showing for Sweden could increase his market value. But if United were to strike before their rivals get the chance and table a £35m offer, it would be extremely difficult for Dortmund to turn down a “dream move” for their defensive jewel, who will be keen to sort his future before heading off to the tournament in June. Featured image Pau Barrena 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.
Darren Fletcher says red-hot United academy star is “more than capable” of playing for the senior side
Manchester United Under-18 manager Darren Fletcher has showered praise on starlet JJ Gabriel. The young academy player has caught the imagination of fans with his performances this season, although a first-team bow has not been possible due to FA norms. Still only 15 years old, Gabriel has been a regular feature for the Under-18 side this campaign, registering 26 goals and four assists in 28 appearances. His efforts have already seen him win the inaugural Premier League Under-18 Player of the Season award. JJ Gabriel Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played U18 Premier League2322233–1,968′ FA Youth Cup55312-498′ Total28272642-2,466′ Source: Transfermarkt. The Englishman is part of the team that has reached the final of the FA Youth Cup, where they will lock horns with bitter rivals Manchester City on 14 May at the Joie Stadium. Gabriel has already trained with the senior side on several occasions this season, even earning praise from Bryan Mbeumo. The teenager became the youngest goalscorer in United’s FA Youth Cup history following his goal in the 1-0 win over Peterborough in the third round of the tournament in December. There is belief that the player could make his record-breaking bow for the senior side next season, and Fletcher has now shared his thoughts on the matter. Ready to join United’s pre-season tour Speaking to The Athletic, Fletcher insisted that Gabriel has been a pleasure to work with. He said: “JJ’s an amazing talent and has an enthusiasm for football that he brings to the pitch every day: to learn, to want to play and be on the ball. He’s been a pleasure to work with. He’s a fantastic kid.” The United Under-18 manager went on to state that the young centre-forward is ready to make the jump up to the senior side and join them in the upcoming pre-season tour, adding: “All our players are capable of going on pre-season, not just JJ. It’ll depend on who else is selected and what he needs for his next step.” “Getting variation in your development is really important. We want him to go up there and thrive. We need to get him in the position to do that, and even if he doesn’t, that’s not the end of the world. We always need to be careful. They need to experience that, but it’s making sure it’s at the right time, and understanding why and what the needs are.” “Once you get thrown in there, you’re judged very, very quickly, rightly or wrongly. It’s important that we do right by his development. JJ’s more than capable to go in, as are a lot of our young players. They all get experiences with the first team. It goes under the radar how many of our young players get tastes of the first team.” Gabriel part of an impressive United bunch While Fletcher was full of praise for Gabriel, he also pointed out the entire team’s contribution to the player’s rise. He stated: “We have to remember he’s a kid and also, he’s been part of a really good team.” “JJ has recognised the amount of help he’s had from team-mates to get on the ball into those positions to score goals. We’ve got a lot of good players. JJ has scored the goals, and goals always get the limelight.” “He’s bought into – as all the attacking players have – the out-of-possession stuff, the real team ethos. JJ takes constructive criticism fantastically and I’ve got a great relationship with him. He has a major future.” Final Thoughts It already appears that United have a generational talent on their hands and they must carefully nurture him to help him reach his true potential. There is already a queue forming to prise Gabriel away from Old Trafford, so the Red Devils have to ensure they secure his future as well. 26 G/A in 23 game at U18 level… at 15. JJ Gabriel is on another level. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/MtdCm4RgD4 — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) May 13, 2026 Featured image Alex Livesey 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 Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.
Madrid perform stunning Tchouameni U-turn, ready to sell him to United on one key condition – report
Real Madrid are reportedly open to offloading midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni to Manchester United, but one key requirement must be fulfilled for a transfer to get over the line. United want Tchouameni Heading into the summer transfer window, United are prioritising midfield reinforcements. Casemiro is set to leave at the end of the season upon the expiry of his contract, while an exit is also on the cards for Manuel Ugarte, who has struggled to make an impact since his move from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024. There have been suggestions that United could look to recruit up to three top-class midfielders as they prepare to play Champions League football next season and potentially mount a title charge. It’s looking increasingly likely that Michael Carrick will be handed the Old Trafford hot seat on a permanent basis, having done a tremendous job in an interim role since Ruben Amorim was sacked. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United are prepared to splash in excess of £150m on midfielders alone. In recent weeks, Tchouameni has emerged as a genuine target for United as they step up their transfer plans. United’s interest in the Frenchman can be traced as far back as 2022, when he was making waves at AS Monaco. But Madrid beat United to his signature. After two consecutive days of infighting that sent Fede Valverde to the hospital unconscious, his future at the Santiago Bernabeu now looks uncertain. Last week, Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed that while United admire Tchouameni, Madrid have no desire to let him go. Now, a fresh report has suggested the opposite, and it may be good news for United. Tchouameni update Sully, who has proven to be a reliable source for United news, alleges, “Roundtable understands that Real Madrid would be open to letting Aurelien Tchouaméni leave, only on the basis that the player himself asks to leave.” “It is up to Manchester United to try to convince him to join, as the Spanish giants want to keep him.” “His current stance is that he wants to stay, and if he does stay, Madrid will look to renew his contract, as it expires in 2028.” Sully urges caution, warning that this could also be a case of Tchouameni’s agent trying to look for a better deal for his client. Yet, United’s appreciation of him remains firm and the club are willing to pounce if they receive encouragement. United are next in action on Sunday when they host Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford. Featured image Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey 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 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 line up surprise swoop for Spanish dribbling wizard, he’s ideal for new project – report
A left winger signing is one Manchester United are expected to prioritise this summer. Moving on, Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, and Alejandro Garnacho mean the Red Devils have no natural left wingers at the club. Missing such a profile is a real risk, and INEOS knows that all too well, which is why they are keen to address it. However, while that transfer need is obvious, some of the fantastic wingers linked with a move to Old Trafford are either available at a fortune or subject to intense competition. Therefore, INEOS needs to be wise about whom they target to land a good deal without overpaying. Take winger search to Spain Consequently, one shrewd option could be a move for Ander Barrenetxea. . According to Marca, “Both Chelsea and Manchester United have closely monitored the Real Sociedad attacker’s progress throughout the season. “These clubs have little hesitation in spending a significant amount of money, and Barrenetxea is a player who fits the bill for their new projects ahead of next season.” Who is Ander Barrenetxea? To begin with, Barrenetxea is a versatile, 24-year-old right-footed Spanish winger who plies his trade for Real Sociedad. He primarily plays on the left wing, cutting inside, and is known for his technical dribbling, explosive acceleration, and high-energy pressing. Moreover, he is as natural a left winger as they come. While his numbers are not yet eye-catching, three goals and five assists in 29 La Liga games this season, watching him dazzle in 1v1 situations suggests it is only a matter of time before he starts posting serious numbers in front of goal. According to Transfermarkt, the Spaniard has a market value of €20.2 million (£17m). Notably, he is also reported to have a €75 million (£65m) release clause, though it is unrealistic for Sociedad to hold out for that figure. With Chelsea also interested, however, the Spanish club could still hold out for a decent offer, just not one as exorbitant as the fees being demanded for the likes of Yan Diomande or Ilman Ndiaye. Featured image Florencia Tan Jun 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 Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.
Howard Webb explains why VAR “couldn’t” overrule controversial Sesko strike vs Liverpool
Manchester United found themselves at the centre of VAR confusion recently when, during their 3-2 victory against Liverpool earlier this month, Benjamin Sesko scored a controversial goal. Sesko bundled home after Freddie Woodman deflected Bruno Fernandes‘ headed pass – though he was not awarded the assist – onto his body, knocking the ball into the net without knowing much about it. A VAR review took place at the time, checking to see whether the ball touched Sesko’s hand on the way in, but, much to the frustration of Liverpool fans, the goal was eventually allowed to stand. Now, however, an official explanation has been provided as to why the goal stood, given by the chief refereeing officer, Howard Webb. A key fixture The fierce local derby is always a key fixture for fans of both clubs, but on this occasion there was far more at stake than just bragging rights. The match was vital in the race for the Champions League places, with Kobbie Mainoo’s emphatic strike securing a return to the elite competition for United. The Red Devils got off to the perfect start in the game, finding themselves 2-0 up early in the first half thanks to Matheus Cunha’s deflected strike and Sesko’s tap-in. Unfortunately, United did not come out for the second half with the same intensity they displayed in the first and soon found themselves drawing the game, thanks to goals from Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo. However, Mainoo had the final word and celebrated his new contract with a match-winning strike, leaving Liverpool fans to seethe over Sesko’s goal that they felt certain should have been disallowed. No clear evidence Webb appeared on the latest instalment of Match Officials Mic’d Up to discuss a series of controversial decisions made over the last few weeks. Among these was the decision to allow Sesko’s goal against Liverpool. “The clip speaks for itself. I think it probably does hit the hand,” said Webb. “But of course, the VAR need that conclusivity. They need to be absolutely certain that it does.” “It doesn’t matter what we think, it’s what they think. We do ask them to be sure that something needs acting on.” “Certainly Sesko doesn’t deliberately handle this, he doesn’t make himself big. It’s all very natural. But of course, the laws of the game require any goal that comes off the hand from the player who scores immediately, the goal needs to be disallowed. That means the VAR has no option but to start looking for that.” “Sometimes it looks like they’re being too forensic and you hear the VAR looking from various angles. They want to get it right, if it does conclusively come off the arm. But they don’t get to that level of certainty.” “They probably think it does [come off the hand] as well but they need to be absolutely categorical to get involved. They couldn’t find it. That’s why the on-field decision stood.” Regardless of whether it was the right decision or not, United fans certainly will not be complaining about yet another victory over their fierce rivals. Featured image by Michael Regan/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 Mike Walsh Mike Walsh is an experienced freelance journalist who has written about a variety of topics over multiple years. He is very happy to finally be writing about the Red Devils, especially now that his favourite player, Michael Carrick, is in charge of the team.
