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.
Howard Webb explains why VAR “couldn’t” overrule controversial Sesko strike vs Liverpool
Blockbuster update as Elliot Anderson’s nailed-on Man City move gets blown out of the water – report
Manchester United are looking to make a world-class addition to the midfield this summer, and it is no wonder they have their eyes on Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson. The Red Devils are laying down succession plans for Casemiro, who is set to leave Old Trafford at the end of the season as a free agent. The Brazilian has been in red-hot form under caretaker manager Michael Carrick, bringing drive and tenacity to the middle of the park. His partnership with Kobbie Mainoo has been key to United’s rise in recent months. The Red Devils have already qualified for next season’s Champions League and are third in the Premier League table after 36 games. INEOS are now determined to replace Casemiro with an aggressive midfielder, and one could argue there is no one better than Anderson in the Premier League. Premier League’s best midfielder? Anderson has been a revelation for Nottingham Forest this season and has been a dominant presence in the middle of the park. He has won the most duels in the Premier League (284), suggesting that he could be the ideal partner for Mainoo at the Theatre of Dreams. However, the 23 year old has also been quite impressive with the ball at his feet. Among midfielders in the league, Anderson has registered the fourth-most successful long passes (115) and the most successful short passes (1,813). The Englishman has registered four goals and three assists in 48 appearances across competitions for Forest this season, all but five of which have been starts. Elliot Anderson Stats: 2025/26 CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League3635427-3,180′ UEFA Europa League128-131833′ Total4843431014,013′ Source: Transfermarkt. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person stated that Manchester City are leading the race for Anderson ahead of the summer. An update on the situation has now emerged, and it will delight United fans. Anderson prefers United move According to SportsBoom, United are the favourites to sign Anderson this summer. The report states: “Manchester United have cranked the heat to boiling point in their pursuit of Nottingham Forest midfield star Elliot Anderson, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.” “United’s top brass are said to be captivated by Anderson’s all action style. They see him as the missing piece in a midfield built to dominate at home and in Europe.” The report states that while City were previously in the driving seat, the dynamics of the race have now shifted. It adds: “City had been confident of landing him, but the mood is shifting. Anderson is believed to favour a move to Old Trafford, drawn by the club’s resurgence and renewed belief.” It is believed that City and Chelsea remain attentive to the situation and are ready to pounce if United slip up. United preparing £80 million offer While Anderson’s future remains subject to speculation, Nottingham Forest are unwilling to let their prized asset leave easily. The player is under contract at the City Ground until 2029, giving the West Bridgford club an advantage in potential negotiations. The report goes on to state that United are preparing an £80 million offer for the Englishman, adding: “The numbers are huge. Forest want close to £100 million for their prized asset. United are preparing an offer nearer £80 million, a bid designed to test resolve and force a decision.” Final Thoughts Anderson’s arrival could solve a major issue in United’s squad and transform them into title challengers. As such, the Red Devils must do everything possible to ensure they secure his services. Elliot Anderson has won possession 8.30 times p90 on average this season, the most of any player across Europe’s top five leagues. At the top of the list? 📝 pic.twitter.com/HrYLJyQQcx — Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) May 11, 2026 Featured image Jack Thomas 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.
United strike gold in pursuit of incredible PL maestro, talks held over £60m switch to Old Trafford – report
Manchester United are accelerating their interest in Mateus Fernandes after the club’s recruitment team delivered glowing reports on the West Ham maestro, according to a new report. Portuguese Playmaker Despite facing the ignominy of back-to-back relegations, Fernandes‘ reputation as one of the Premier League’s best midfield prospects continues to grow by the week. West Ham signed the 21-year-old for £42 million from Southampton last summer after the Saints finished bottom of the table in a dismal season at St Mary’s. Fernandes was a rare bright spot amidst a sea of underperformance on the south coast, which led the Hammers to strike a big-money deal. Now, in an unfortunate twist, the former Sporting CP star faces the same fate with his new side, as they are locked in a dogfight with local rivals Tottenham Hotspur to avoid relegation. West Ham are currently 18th, two points behind Tottenham Hotspur and a much worse goal difference, with a daunting trip to St James’ Park to face Newcastle this weekend. The momentum for survival appears to reside in north, rather than east, London. However, even if Nuno Espirito’s side were to drop down to the Championship, it was believed they would demand a massive fee to let the Portugal international depart the London Stadium – potentially as high as £84 million, double their initial investment. This would have presented United, on the hunt for up to three midfielders this summer, with a serious problem in terms of financing a deal while retaining sufficient funds to secure two other targets. Price Drop Attacking Football correspondent Paddy Keogh dismisses this £84 million valuation as “not accurate”. Instead, he claims the price will “be closer to £60 million” should West Ham be unable to survive, noting there is no relegation clause despite many reports suggesting there was. United have held talks with Fernandes’ camp to gauge interest, with the player said to be very open to a switch to Manchester. Captain and compatriot Bruno Fernandes has even recommended his namesake to the club’s hierarchy. Keogh reveals the analytical team at Old Trafford “love” the Hammers’ dynamo, who is capable of playing in a variety of roles in midfield, further strengthening his reputation. Chelsea and Manchester City are both understood to have also tabled enquiries, while European champions Paris Saint-Germain are also interested. The French giants’ sporting director Luis Campos is always on the hunt for the best Portuguese talent, presenting a potential obstacle United will find hard to overcome. Final Thoughts Interestingly, Keogh notes United were interested in Fernandes last year, with Ruben Amorim – the manager who gave him his debut in Lisbon – said to be a huge fan of the all-action midfielder. And while the 41-year-old tactician no longer resides at the Theatre of Dreams, Fernandes offers United a dream option in midfield if they can fend off interest from Europe’s elite to secure his signature this summer with a £60m raid on the capital. Featured image Julian Finney 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.
Ineos don’t want “exceptional” United star to be part of Carrick’s squad, prepared to sign his replacement – report
Michael Carrick is reportedly in line to be handed the permanent head coach role at Manchester United. This appointment is far from high-profile, but it has previously been reported that there is a feeling internally at United that “getting this summer’s recruitment drive right is even more important than the appointment of the next head coach.” Ahead of the summer, the United hierarchy have already made a major transfer decision. Manchester United want to get rid of Andre Onana According to ESPN, Manchester United are open to signing a goalkeeper this summer as they are aware that they need a strong squad ahead of their return to the Champions League. It is believed that United are not planning to include Andre Onana in their squad next season. Erik ten Hag’s marquee signing arrived from Inter Milan in a £43.8 million deal after impressing in the Champions League. Pep Guardiola even labelled him as an “exceptional” ball-playing goalkeeper. However, Ruben Amorim shipped him out on loan to Trabzonspor after a horrific 2024/25 campaign. In comparison, Onana has had a positive season in Turkey. It is claimed the Cameroon shot-stopper was hopeful of returning to United to compete with the side’s new undisputed number one Senne Lammens ahead of next season. However, he is not in the club’s plans. “Work is set to start to find suitors for Onana, who is under contract at Old Trafford until 2028,” the report adds. Altay Bayindir likely to return to Turkey Current No. 2 Altay Bayindir is also expected to depart, having attracted interest from the Süper Lig. Bayindir started the season as Amorim’s first-choice goalkeeper, but the Turkish star has not featured for United under Carrick. Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Bayindir has reached an agreement in principle to join Besiktas this summer. Featured image by 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 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!
Lisandro Martinez sale: the right decision at the right time for United – opinion
Life comes at you fast especially at Manchester United, where difficult conversations are often the only kind of conversations. Away from the obvious big call needed regarding the next permanent head coach, United have huge decisions to make in terms of strengthening their squad ahead of next season. That certainly includes looking outward for reinforcements but also peering into their own dressing room, from where misfits must be moved on, money recouped for reinvestment and weak links replaced with stronger bonds. Martinez under the microscope There should be very few untouchables in United’s current squad; that’s not to say the club should be spending time actively trying to sell three quarters of their first-team roster, but should offers come in they should be listened to attentively. Until recently, Lisandro Martinez would firmly have been one of those untouchables, a backline lion bringing bite and guile to the Red Devils. It feels like a default position but one worth interrogating because it might not actually be true. Depending on how far you are willing to stretch the term “recently”, the Argentine has alternately been suspended, injured, or in erratic form a world away from the calm dominance he showed when he first arrived at Old Trafford. Untouchable no longer And for that reason, all of a sudden United should be preparing for life without Licha. Not actively looking for suitors or scrawling his name in three-foot letters on the transfer list, but quietly preparing a contingency plan should an offer come in that makes financial sense to accept. Whether that plan involves more game time for Ayden Heaven, exploiting a market opportunity like Marcos Senesi on a free transfer or investing in a replacement is just another item on an already jam-packed agenda. United have had to get used to playing without Licha anyway, and at this point only sometimes look better with him on the pitch. The squad is surprisingly rich in centre-back options, including Heaven and elder statesman Harry Maguire, and so much time have they spent on the field that it’s no longer correct to say that Martinez walks straight back into the starting lineup just because he’s fit. Considered alongside his apparently worsening disciplinary record – he has always been spiky, but lately seems to be opting for overt, ill-judged aggression over the hard-but-fair robustness that was once his calling card – and it is not the prettiest picture for the 28-year-old. Still an asset On his day, the diminutive Argentine is borderline unplayable both in and out of possession. He has bullied forwards twice his size as the squad’s most ferocious defender, and is one of the best passers of the ball at the club – should he leave, his playmaking from deep would certainly be tricky to replace. At present there is no indication that he will be heading for the exit this summer, and this is not in itself a bad thing. Martinez is a massive character in the dressing room, one that commands respect and generally appears a force for good in a squad slowly piecing itself together. But the cracks are starting to show, and a big club wouldn’t think twice about accepting a decent fee should one be offered – if one comes in, United must show that a big club is indeed what they are. 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 Joe Ponting Joe has spent more than half his life writing about football and all of it following United. As a child he told a doctor his name was ‘Paul Scholes’, but could never pick a pass like him no matter how much he tried. He cut his teeth working in print media for local newspapers and entered football journalism covering the grassroots game for the Non-League Paper. Here he achieved a career high, interviewing United legend Sir Bobby Charlton to get his views on the lower echelons of the football pyramid. To kill time during international breaks Joe writes album reviews and has strong views on post punk for Plus One Magazine.
“Freak of nature”: United close in on 6’3 English monster, scouts blown away by his transformation – report
Manchester United have reignited their interest in Borussia Dortmund dynamo Jobe Bellingham after a major change at the Signal Iduna Park, according to a new report. Midfield Rebuild The Red Devils’ urgent priority this summer is a complete revamp of their midfield unit. Casemiro will leave a major hole in the squad once his contract expires at the end of the season, while Manuel Ugarte has failed his trial as deputy for the Brazilian. INEOS are intent on signing three new options in the middle of the pitch if a buyer can be found for Ugarte, with a focus on Premier League-proven operators such as Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali, Adam Wharton and Carlos Baleba. An inside source claims United are planning to sign the latter before the World Cup, after agreeing personal terms with the Brighton enforcer last summer. But the hierarchy are also interested in adding a younger, more affordable option to this cohort. Olympiacos starlet Christos Mouzakitis and Lille wonderkid Ayyoub Bouaddi both feature high on the club’s radar. However, United are also understood to be considering Bellingham, younger brother of Real Madrid superstar Jude, as an option for this role. United sent scouts to Germany United expressed interest in signing the 20-year-old midfielder when he was still plying his trade in England, first with boyhood club Birmingham City and then Sunderland. But Dortmund convinced the 6’3 powerhouse to follow the family footsteps by choosing the Bundesliga as the next stage for his fledgling career after striking a £33 million deal with the Black Cats. Initially, it had appeared to be a mistake, however, with the England under-21 international struggling to adapt to the new environment and failing to gain Dortmund boss Nico Kovac’s trust. But the old adage that form is temporary, class is permanent has rung true for the highly-rated youngster, as he has enjoyed a superb second half of the season. Convincing Kovac of his qualities, both on and off the pitch, Bellingham has started 18 of Die Schwarzgelben’s last 20 matches, with TEAMtalk revealing he is now considered a “central figure” in the Croatian coach’s plans. This outstanding form has “not gone unnoticed across Europe”, the report states, as a “number of elite clubs are keeping close tabs on Bellingham’s progress.” This includes United, who have dispatched scouts to Germany on numerous occasions to watch a number of Dortmund’s stars. But a well-placed source has “admitted that Bellingham’s development has become an increasingly frequent discussion point among United’s recruitment staff in recent months.” Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City are understood to be keeping a close eye on the situation, while Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are also mentioned as suitors. TEAMtalk concludes that Bellingham is “now firmly back under consideration as a potential option” at Old Trafford. Final Thoughts Bellingham’s skillset is an exciting one, possessing the ability to play a number of different roles in midfield, and his athleticism and experience lend itself to a jump to the Premier League. One former teammate at Sunderland, Dan Neil, has described the Birmingham native as a “freak of nature” due to his power and physicality at such a young age. But Dortmund are tough negotiators who often command top dollar for their prized assets. The price United would likely need to pay to extract him from the North Rhine-Westphali will exceed the budget – believed to be between £20-40m – assigned to their ‘younger prospect’ in midfield. Feature image Dean Mouhtaropoulos 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 set for transfer tug-of-war with PL rivals over £52m Danish warrior identified as Casemiro’s heir – report
Manchester United are eyeing several midfielders from the Premier League and abroad as they look to sign a proper replacement for Casemiro this summer. The Red Devils are preparing for life after the veteran Brazilian, whose contract expires at the end of the season. The English giants have opted to part ways with the 34 year old and are planning to infuse the middle of the park with fresh blood. United already have Kobbie Mainoo in their ranks, who has forged a rock-solid partnership with Casemiro since the arrival of caretaker manager Michael Carrick in January. The Red Devils now want a combative midfielder this summer who can fill the Brazilian’s boots and complement the Englishman. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba, and Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali are among the Premier League-proven candidates on INEOS’ wish list. However, INEOS have not limited their search to the English top flight, with candidates also being assessed from foreign leagues. One player who has been linked with a move to Old Trafford since the tenure of former head coach Ruben Amorim is Morten Hjulmand. The ideal Casemiro replacement for United? Hjulmand has been a mainstay in the middle of the park for Sporting since arriving at the Jose Alvalade Stadium in the summer of 2023 from Lecce. A year later, he was handed the armband, signifying his rising importance to the team. The Danish midfielder was heavily tipped to move to the Theatre of Dreams after Amorim took charge in November 2024. Unfortunately, the move never materialised, and while the Portuguese head coach departed at the beginning of this year, Hjulmand continues to be named as an option for United – and rightly so. This season, the 26 year old has registered two goals and six assists in 43 appearances for the Portuguese club, all but one of which have been starts. Morten Hjulmand Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Liga Portugal2625248–2,235′ UEFA Champions League1010––5–910′ Taça de Portugal55–22–501′ Allianz Cup11––––90′ Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira11––1–90′ Total43422616–3,826′ Source: Transfermarkt. The defensive midfielder’s leadership qualities also make him a fine replacement for Casemiro, whose dressing-room presence will be missed next season. Previous reports have mentioned Manchester City among Hjulmand’s admirers, and a fresh update now suggests that another Premier League club has entered the race. Arsenal in contact for Hjulmand Arsenal are keeping a close watch on Hjulmand ahead of a possible move this summer, according to Caught Offside journalist Mark Brus. The report adds that while the Dane is not a priority for United, he remains on their wish list and could be available for €60 million. A source with knowledge of the situation told the journalist: “Arsenal were in touch recently, Man United are also asking to be kept informed. Sporting have given clubs the signal – he has a €80m release clause, but start negotiations at around €60m and there’s a chance he can go.” “This is their model, and has been for a long time. They know this is a chance to make significant profit on the player, and he’ll be keen to make the step up to a higher level as well.” The report, however, cites Arsenal’s lengthy pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres last summer to point out that a move for Hjulmand will not be a straightforward affair. Sporting are hoping for a bidding war for the Dane this year, which could take his price tag closer to the €80 million mark. Final Thoughts United are correct to assess all their options, given that replacing Casemiro this summer will be a huge task. The Red Devils need someone who can hit the ground running at Old Trafford, which is why they are expected to prioritise Premier League-proven signings. Featured image Francesco Pecoraro 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.
Gary Lineker explains how Marcus Rashford could land bombshell return to Old Trafford
Having just secured the La Liga title during his season-long loan at Barcelona, the upcoming summer transfer window could define the rest of Marcus Rashford’s career. Though there is a clause in his loan granting Barcelona the chance to sign him for just £26 million, it is currently unclear whether the Catalan giants are interested in keeping him at the club. Though other clubs will undoubtedly show interest in the England international should he return to his parent club, legendary striker Gary Lineker believes there is one figure at Manchester United who may be able to convince the speedy winger to return to Old Trafford permanently. A title-winning season Though he probably has not started as many games as he would have liked, Rashford has definitely made an impact during his time on sunnier shores. Across his 43 appearances for the iconic club, the knuckleball specialist has scored 13 goals and provided ten assists. Recently, he scored the first goal, a truly unstoppable free-kick, against fierce rivals Real Madrid to clinch the La Liga title with three matches to spare. Despite his heroics and impressive contributions to the team, not all Barcelona fans have taken to Rashford, which perhaps explains why there is believed to be some reluctance from Barcelona to sign the winger on a permanent basis. No shortage of suitors Since rumours broke that Barcelona may not keep Rashford at the club, a plethora of huge clubs have shown an interest in signing the United youth product. Arsenal, Newcastle, Tottenham Hotspur and Bayern Munich have all been linked with the goalscorer, who would certainly be a welcome addition of pace and flair within any of those squads. Despite having no shortage of options, prolific goalscorer and renowned pundit Gary Lineker believes the Englishman might yet have a future at Old Trafford. A return to United? Speaking on The Rest Is Football, former England international Lineker was hesitant to rule out Rashford featuring for the Red Devils once again. He believes his relationship with Michael Carrick, who has an impressive win rate at the helm of United, could be key to a return. “And if he doesn’t go, will he? I think there’ll be clubs looking to snap him up, to be perfectly honest, at that sort of price tag, considering what you get for your money nowadays, because I think it’d be difficult for him to go back to Manchester United.” he said. “Although I can see it, if with, you know, Michael Carrick, who I’m sure he respects and, you know, [Ruben] Amorim is not there anymore, who clearly, you know, they didn’t see eye to eye. “But so, you know, it’ll be interesting to see what happens there. A lot of star players, star performances this season for Barcelona.” Prime years to come No matter where Rashford ends up, Lineker is certain the winger’s best years are still ahead of him. He said: “He’s 28, Marcus, 29 [in] October. So, I think, I mean, he’s in his prime. And obviously, in my time, you’d have gone 28, 29, you’d have been slightly nervous about, you know, extending a long contract or something. “But I think nowadays, you know, the new 32 is 35, probably, at least with some players, a lot more. So, yeah, I think he’s still got some great years left in him. He’s certainly not been overplayed, like a lot of players. So that will be in his favour.” Whatever the future holds, Rashford has the ability to be a success at any club. Featured image Alex Caparros 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 star will agree blockbuster new deal if INEOS appoint Carrick, fans will be over the moon – report
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes will make a final decision on his future if Michael Carrick is confirmed as the club’s permanent head coach, according to a new report. Carrick’s at the wheel Earlier today, it was confirmed that the executive branch have settled on Carrick as their first-choice option to lead the team next season. The decision will ultimately rest with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, as the Glazer family are happy to cede responsibility over football decisions to their co-owner. A meeting is expected this week to discuss the recommendation, but it would be a major surprise if the British billionaire overruled it. The former midfielder has exceeded his brief as interim boss – to qualify for the Champions League – having fended off Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to take charge in the wake of Ruben Amorim’s dismissal. A top-five finish was confirmed over the May bank holiday with a triumphant 3-2 win over Liverpool at Old Trafford, courtesy of a late Kobbie Mainoo winner. United boast the best form in the Premier League since Carrick was appointed, but INEOS are understood to have been as impressed with his conduct off the pitch as the results he has produced on it. Similarly, the players themselves have thrown their full support behind the 44-year-old Englishman. Key members of the dressing room, including Fernandes, are believed to have made the case for the current coaching regime to remain in place after such an impressive second half of the campaign. Fernandes’ future is decided The Mirror reveals Fernandes, who continues to be linked with a bombshell exit, is now ready to commit his long-term future once Carrick’s position is confirmed. “United are keen to get Carrick in place before the end of this month, so he can start planning for next season. Carrick has proved a hugely popular figure within the squad and has been the frontrunner for several weeks. And Carrick’s imminent appointment is expected to result in captain Bruno Fernandes committing his long term future to United as well,” the report states. The Portugal international’s contract expires in 2027, though the club can trigger an automatic one-year extension. However, it also contains a release clause worth £57 million to clubs outside of England. And given Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal are expected to renew last summer’s interest in luring him to the Middle East with an eye-watering offer, while European giants Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain also keep tabs, there have been doubts swirling around the club’s best – and most important – player. Final Thoughts Fresh from his best season in a red shirt, with Fernandes a shoo-in to win every Player of the Year award on offer in England as he stands on the verge of breaking the Premier League’s assist record, United simply cannot afford to let the 31-year-old talisman leave. Talks are understood to be underway to agree a new deal, but this crucial development of Carrick remaining at the helm may be the impetus needed for both parties to strike an agreement. Stability and certainty are two fundamentals when convincing a footballer to sign a contract – the interim boss becoming the permanent one provides both. 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 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.
Official: United issue huge fitness update on key star ahead of Sunday’s clash against Nottingham Forest
Manchester United have issued an immensely positive update on midfielder Casemiro ahead of the final home game of the season this weekend. Casemiro fears Casemiro was missing last weekend as United were held to a drab goalless stalemate by Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. In his absence, Michael Carrick opted for a midfield pivot of Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount. Manuel Ugarte was also absent. Mount failed to replicate the impact that Casemiro has had this season, further highlighting the Brazilian’s importance to the team. United confirmed that Casemiro was not available for selection against the Black Cats because he was not ready to play, presumably due to a small issue. Carrick hinted as much when he suggested that he was hopeful the player would be back for the Nottingham Forest clash. Now, United have revealed that Casemiro trained with his teammates on Wednesday afternoon and is very likely to be present for the meeting with Vitor Pereira’s men on Sunday. Casemiro update United say, “Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has returned to training at Carrington, after missing the goalless draw at Sunderland.” “Manuel Ugarte was also present, after suffering a back problem, prior to the visit to the Stadium of Light.” “Carrick could provide a further update on Case and Manu when he sits down for his pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon.” Having confirmed that he will leave United at the end of the season upon the expiry of his contract, Sunday is poised to be an emotional day for Casemiro and his family. The five-time Champions League winner will get the chance to bid the Old Trafford crowd farewell as he looks forward to the next step in his illustrious career. He previously admitted that he will be struggling to hold back tears. United vs. Forest kicks off at 12:30 pm. 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 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!
