Manchester United are scouting the market for attacking reinforcements, but all signs indicate that their pursuit of Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen will not end on a positive note. The Nigerian striker has been on fire since arriving in Turkey from Napoli in the summer of 2024, initially on a season-long loan. Osimhen hit the ground running with the Lions and powered them to the league title as well as the Turkish Cup in his debut campaign. His efforts earned him a permanent contract and forced his admirers across the continent to take note. Osimhen maintained his goalscoring exploits last season, finishing with 22 goals and eight assists in 33 appearances across competitions for Galatasaray. His efforts were key in the Turkish club’s successful defence of their league title. Victor Osimhen Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Süper Lig22191558-1,713′ UEFA Champions League1010732-841′ Türkiye Kupası10–1-12′ TFF Süper Kupa——- Total332922811-2,566′ Source: Transfermarkt. Osimhen remains under contract until 2029, but that has note deterred his suitors. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person stated that United are also considering a move for the Nigerian this summer. United eyeing attacking reinforcements United enjoyed a goalscoring resurgence last season, banking on their new-look attack that cost over £200 million last summer. Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha were all signed to breathe life into a whimpering attack that had managed just 44 goals in 38 league games in the 2024/25 season. The Red Devils were rewarded for their proactiveness in the transfer market, finishing the campaign third in the Premier League table. United scored 69 goals in 38 league games, with only champions Arsenal (71) and runners-up Manchester City (77) managing to register more strikes. Sesko, Cunha and Mbeumo created history by all getting into double figures, while Bruno Fernandes registered the most assists (21) in a Premier League season. Michael Carrick’s team provided fans with an exciting brand of attacking football that added to the optimism ahead of the new campaign. However, with the Red Devils set to compete in the Champions League and the domestic cups next season, further additions to the attack could be helpful. The English giants would ideally want a new striker to share the goalscoring burden with Sesko, which is why Osimhen has emerged on their wish list. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person, however, suggests that Galatasaray are set to demand £150 million for their prized asset this summer, dampening the mood around Old Trafford. The Nigerian has now provided an update on his future, which will not be received well either. Osimhen not looking to leave Speaking to Fanatik, Osimhen appeared to hint that he would stay with Galatasaray beyond the summer. He said: “We’ve been promoting the Turkish League to the world for years.” “We’re raising the profile of both the country and the league. Next season we’ll be even better and represent Galatasaray even better. We’re the best. We’ve said this time and time again. And next season we’ll be back with the same hunger.” “I’ve missed my team and my fans so much. The best atmosphere in the world is at our stadium. You can come and see for yourselves. Everyone says so.” Final Thoughts Galatasaray’s steep asking price, coupled with the player’s desire to stay in Turkey, suggests that a move for Osimhen may be too far-fetched this summer. United, as such, should consider alternative options to strengthen their attack, including a move for West Ham United’s Crysencio Summerville. Featured image Ahmad Mora 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.
Next season: 30 g/a attacking monster wanted by United provides major update on future
Picture: United star basks in glory with triumphant reaction after inspiring country to big World Cup win
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez was in a very triumphant mood after helping Argentina to see off Austria and book their place in the next round of the 2026 World Cup. Fine form Argentina are enjoying a fabulous World Cup campaign, largely thanks to the heroics of their captain and talisman Lionel Messi. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has been unstoppable so far at the tournament, scoring all five goals for Argentina in their wins against Algeria and Austria. He bagged a sensational hat-trick in the opener vs. Algeria and followed that up with another equally impressive brace on Monday. However, Argentina’s defensive solidity has been equally vital, with Martínez playing a central role in that resilience. With consecutive clean sheets to his name, the United star has been faultless for Argentina, translating his everyday club consistency into flawless performances on football’s ultimate stage. In the meeting with Austria, Martinez contributed seven clearances, 94% pass accuracy and three ball recoveries. He also won three of the four aerial duels that he contested. After the final whistle, Martinez took to social media to celebrate Argentina’s victory. Martinez’s reaction The 28-year-old wrote on Instagram, “Another step forward. We fought together and achieved a huge victory.” “Go Argentina!!” Martinez also spoke to the media and was full of praise for Messi, insisting that no one else in football compares to the iconic forward, who turns 39 on Wednesday. “Honestly, there are no words – all we can do is enjoy it. There’s no point comparing him to anyone else because he’s in a league of his own; he stands alone at the top.” “All we can do is enjoy it, enjoy it. I’m lost for words; I can’t find the words. I just feel such immense joy at having him here day in, day out, and that he’s Argentine.” “We really must appreciate him.” Featured image by Michael Steele/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!
Mission Impossible: Club abandon hunt for United’s record-breaker, deal too complex to complete
Manchester United’s resolve over Bruno Fernandes was always going to be tested this summer, given the magnificent season he had just delivered. Reports suggested Turkish heavyweights Galatasaray had earmarked the Portuguese Magnifico as their top summer target, hoping the headline signing would demonstrate their ambition not only to conquer the Turkish league, but also to make an impact across Europe. Record breaker After a season in which Fernandes crowned his brilliance by breaking the Premier League assists record, registering 21 in a single campaign, it was inevitable that top sides would get ideas. Yet while suitors such as Bayern Munich were wise enough to recognise it was mission impossible to prise the Premier League player of the season away from M16, Galatasaray remained bullish that they could get it done. The Turkish side reportedly approached the midfielder’s entourage to gauge whether he would consider a move. Galatasaray make a decision over Bruno Fernandes’ Man United raid Well, those exploratory talks have ultimately led them to one conclusion: the Old Trafford raid is off. Fotomac report that a deal for Fernandes presents a far greater financial challenge than anticipated: “The English club’s asking price of 50 million euros initially made budget planning very difficult for the Galatasaray management. “In addition to the star footballer’s net salary demands, extra obligations such as signing bonuses and performance bonuses were also considered, bringing the total cost to an astronomical level.” Ultimately, Galatasaray conceded it is simply not worth jeopardising their financial structure to force the deal through. Man United should push ahead with a new deal For INEOS, this is at least a welcome outcome. With the unwanted distraction now put to bed, United can move swiftly to offer Fernandes the new contract that has long been mooted, ending any hope of prising him away from Manchester. Once the behind-the-scenes matters are resolved and the ink is dry, Fernandes can focus entirely on guiding United back to the summit. Not long ago, he confessed his greatest wish was to win the Premier League with United. If he sustains the dangerous form he showed last season, that dream is well within reach. Featured image by Molly Darlington/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.
United have double problem in pursuit of 26-yo dynamo considered perfect for Carrick Fabrizio Romano
Manchester United’s pursuit of an ideal successor for Casemiro has seen them linked with a move for Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni. However, it appears that taking him to Old Trafford this summer could be a challenge for INEOS. For the record, the Red Devils were also linked with the Frenchman in the summer of 2022, but Los Blancos won the race. Tchouameni replaced Casemiro at the Santiago Bernabeu, with the Brazilian moving to Old Trafford that year. The veteran midfielder enjoyed a decent stay at the Theatre of Dreams, and was outstanding in the recently concluded season. However, the 34 year old’s stint with United has come to an end this summer, with recent reports suggesting that he is on his way to Inter Miami. The situation has prompted United to turn to the market and it appears that they have rekindled their interest in Tchouameni. Ticks a lot of boxes at Old Trafford Tchouameni has gone from strength to strength since joining Real Madrid, and has won eight trophies at the Santiago Bernabeu, including the league and the Champions League. The Frenchman registered two goals and two assists in 49 appearances in all competitions last season. Aurelien Tchouameni Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played La Liga33311-8-2,623′ UEFA Champions League1313113-1,125′ Supercopa22—-180′ Copa del Rey10-1–13′ Total49462211-3,941′ Source: Transfermarkt. The 26 year old is yet to reach his prime and is already one of the finest defensive midfielders in the world. The Frenchman is not only adept at snuffing out danger and shielding his backline, but he is also assured with the ball at his feet, and has subsequently earned admirers at Old Trafford. Acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano has previously stated that United view Tchouameni as the dream replacement for Casemiro this summer. Recent reports suggest that the Red Devils could have the chance to sign the Frenchman this summer, but the Italian has now provided a contrasting update. Two roadblocks to United’s Tchouameni pursuit Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano reiterated that United remain very interested in Tchouameni. He said: “I have been telling you guys, if you follow the channel, here on YouTube, you know that very well, in April and in May, several times that in case Man Utd had the possibility to decide the perfect player to replace Casemiro, probably internally the name mentioned was going to be Aurelien Tchouameni.” “Perfect defensive midfielder, top European experience, elite player, so interest was absolutely, absolutely confirmed.” However, he pointed out that there are two issues that the Red Devils face regarding a deal for Tchouameni. He said: “The problem of this deal is double. One is that Real Madrid so far are yet to open doors to an exit of Tchouameni, so club-to-club.” “And then the salary because Aurelien Tchouameni is on a very big salary at Real Madrid, and for Manchester United to match that salary was not part of the plans.” “So, this is what I should clarify on Tchouameni because there are new rumours, new stories about this. There is no doubt at all that Man Utd dream and love Aurelien Tchouameni. I can guarantee this.” “They super-appreciate the player and they consider him perfect, but at the same time, to be realistic in terms of transfer fee, it depends on Real Madrid and Real Madrid are yet again to open doors to an exit and then also the salary, it’s a point. So, that’s the reality of the situation of Aurelien Tchouameni.” Final Thoughts Tchouameni could be a world-class addition to Michael Carrick’s squad, and also the ideal partner for Kobbie Mainoo. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Real Madrid could offload the player against his wishes this summer, meaning this saga could becoming increasingly interesting in the coming weeks. 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 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 lock horns with Bayern for “exceptional” World Cup maestro as INEOS make contact over 52m deal – report
Manchester United’s pursuit of Felix Nmecha has taken a sharp twist despite INEOS holding talks with the Borussia Dortmund midfielder’s camp, according to the latest report from Germany. World Cup’s Breakout Star Nmecha has enjoyed a superb start to the World Cup at the heart of a rampant Germany side, and has put Curaçao and Ivory Coast to the sword to book themselves a place in the knockout stages already. Julian Nagelsmann, who was a candidate to take charge at Old Trafford before Michael Carrick was handed the job permanently, has deployed the 25-year-old as a box-to-box dynamo, where he is free to rampage up and down the pitch. Possessing an imposing 6’3 frame, with a potent pairing of speed, strength and skill, Nmecha has been described as “exceptional” by his former coach, Nuri Sahin, who believes he can play in any role in midfield. Against Curaçao, the Hamburg native ran riot, spending most of the match in the opposition half, scoring one and assisting another as Germany triumphed 7-1 over the smallest ever nation to compete at the World Cup. The Ivory Coast, with Amad on the right wing, proved a much sterner test for Die Mannschaft, with only a last-minute winner by Denis Undav enough to give them the three points. Nmecha’s defensive acumen and outstanding physical condition were evident throughout a draining 90 minutes in Toronto. These performances mirror the all-action displays he has produced at the Signal Iduna Park, racking up five goals and three assists across 42 appearances in all competitions for Dortmund. Felix Nmecha Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Bundesliga292523–2,190′ UEFA Champions League1093—753′ DFB-Pokal32—-193′ Total423653–3,136′ Source: Transfermarkt. Eyed by Europe’s Elite With the Red Devils focusing on a major revamp in midfield this summer, it is little surprise the Germany international has caught the eye at Old Trafford, with scouts dispatched to watch his progress in North America. Sports Bild reveals United chiefs have made an enquiry to assess the viability of a deal, though they are not alone in the hunt. Liverpool and Manchester City, the club where Nmecha came through as an academy player before leaving to join Wolfsburg in 2021 and then Dortmund two years later, have also made similar approaches. Furthermore, Arsenal and Chelsea are understood to both be keeping tabs, while on the continent, La Liga rivals FC Barcelona and Real Madrid are “confirmed admirers” according to well-placed sources. However, Sports Bild now reveals Bayern Munich have stormed into the race, with sporting director Max Eberl making contact directly with his camp. This presents a major obstacle for United to overcome, as when the Bavarian giant locks onto a German player, it usually ends with one conclusion: a new arrival at the Allianz Arena. Nmecha’s status as an academy player within English football after his time at the Etihad is understood to be a major bonus for his Premier League suitors, though it is unclear at what price point Dortmund are willing to do business. Final Thoughts Initially, Die Schwarzgelben were said to be demanding a fee in excess of £100 million, perhaps emboldened by the figures floated around for players of similar ilk in England. However, a report relayed by The Peoples Person suggested that offers in the region of £50m would bring Dortmund to the negotiating table. Regardless, the number of top clubs expressing interest, and the entry of Bayern into the mix, means United will have to move quickly and decisively if they are to strike first for Nmecha. Any more standout performances at the World Cup will surely see his valuation rise again. 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.
Big changes at United as club axes under-21s from two tournaments to fast track development – report
After finishing in third place in the Premier League last season, Manchester United are set for a bumper schedule in the new campaign, with Champions League football back on the agenda at Old Trafford. Michael Carrick will be navigating a busy fixture list, with United also expected to improve on their disastrous cup campaigns last term, which resulted in the lowest number of games played in a century for the club. Given the additional games, spaces in the squad will be up for grabs, and United’s academy will be hoping for a breakthrough or two as the season wears on. Under-21 pull-outs With that in mind, United chiefs have made the executive decision to pull the under-21s out of the EFL Trophy and National League Cup for the upcoming campaign. As reported by the Manchester Evening News, the decision has been made to reduce the bloated schedule at youth level and offer the youngsters a clearer pathway to being involved in the first team. The EFL Trophy gave United’s youth players the chance to play against some professional outfits last season, with them beating Notts County but suffering defeats to Barnsley and Lincoln City, which saw them eliminated at the group stage. Getting the balance between game time at youth level and individual development in and around the first team squad is something INEOS are looking at closely, and pulling out of the two competitions will allow closer attention to be paid to potential stars. United are expecting their PDP group to be slightly smaller this season and will hope they can turn one or two of the talented youth squads into first team members who can help Carrick’s side in the new season and save them a pound note in the upcoming transfer markets. Plenty to play for With multiple competitions open for registration, there will still be opportunities for United’s youngsters to compete for a trophy or two in knockout formats. The under-21s will continue to compete in the Premier League International Cup, and the under-19s will enter the coveted UEFA Youth League after the first team secured their ticket back to Europe’s top table. United have also said they remain in support of all the competitions at youth level and will review their programme ahead of the 2027/28 season to decide whether to re-enter. With pre-season just around the corner and plenty of first team stars currently away at the World Cup, supporters will get the chance to cast their eye on some of the up-and-coming talent in United’s ranks over the coming weeks. United’s warm-up fixtures for the season are based across Europe this summer rather than the taxing tours further afield that the club have opted for in recent years. The first pre-season game takes place against Wrexham in Helsinki on 18 July as Carrick gets ready for his first full season in charge. Featured image Christopher Furlong 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 Conner Botterill Conner Botterill has been with The Peoples Person for three years. A lifelong red with degrees in Sport and Journalism and Philosophy and Psychology through the Open University. His favourite match attended was the unforgettable night in Paris in 2019 under the guidance of one of his idols, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Conner still believes he has a chance of making United’s first team through his 5-a-side career.
United plot move to sign “incredible” ex-Liverpool star who was brilliant in PL last season – report
Manchester United’s intention to bring in a versatile attacker could lead to a controversial signing. Liverpool academy product Michael Owen moved to United as a free agent in 2009 after spells at Real Madrid and Newcastle United. Nevertheless, that decision made him a very unpopular figure on Merseyside. Now, United are eyeing another academy product of the Reds who is set to become a free agent upon the expiration of his contract on 30 June. Manchester United keen on Harry Wilson According to SportsBoom, Manchester United have entered the race to sign Harry Wilson, who is nearing the end of his time at Fulham. Wilson joined Fulham from Liverpool on a permanent basis in 2022 after several loan stints away from Anfield. In London, the 29-year-old Wales international has established himself as one of Fulham’s most reliable attacking threats, recording 36 goals and 46 assists for the Cottagers. Last season, he was directly involved in a brilliant 17 goals in the Premier League. Described as “incredible” by Marco Silva, Wilson is now ready to follow his former manager out the door. It is claimed Fulham have all but accepted that hopes of tying him down to a new deal are fading fast. Apart from United, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur are keeping tabs on the right-winger’s situation. “His blend of creativity, versatility and top-flight know-how has earned him widespread respect throughout the game,” the report underlines. Crysencio Summerville also admired at Manchester United Crysencio Summerville is another attacker on United’s shortlist, with the Red Devils targeting more affordable forwards than the likes of Yan Diomande and Iliman Ndiaye. It is believed United see huge potential in the £43 million-rated West Ham winger, who is set to depart the club following their relegation to the Championship. However, Summerville’s valuation may increase, given his performances for the Netherlands in the World Cup and the growing list of suitors. Featured image Ryan Pierse 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!
62 Serie A powerhouse wanted by United makes major decision on his future report
Manchester United remain linked with several players in the transfer window right now, although they are yet to confirm any new arrivals. The English giants are expected to upgrade their midfield before the start of the new campaign in a bid to address Casemiro’s departure. The Red Devils are keen to ensure that the Brazilian’s absence is not felt next season, and recent reports suggest that they have already agreed to sign his compatriot Ederson from Atalanta. While further additions to the midfield are expected before the end of the window, other positions also remain on the agenda for INEOS. United have looked defensively vulnerable in recent seasons, although they have displayed signs of improvement under Michael Carrick. However, with Harry Maguire already on the wrong side of 30 and Matthijs de Ligt coming off an injury-ravaged season, the Red Devils could target a new defender this summer. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person has named Juventus centre-back Gleison Bremer as an option for the job. United monitoring Bremer Bremer is currently with the Brazil squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, although he is yet to make an appearance at the tournament. The 29 year old is coming off a mixed campaign where he missed 18 games for club and country due to injuries. Bremer ended the season with four goals and three assists in 31 appearances across all competitions for the Serie A giants. Bremer Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Serie A2625435-2,175′ UEFA Champions League44—-304′ Italy Cup11—-90′ Total3130435-2,569′ Source: Transfermarkt. With Juventus finishing sixth in the league last season and missing out on the Champions League, the 6’2” defender’s future has been subject to speculation this summer. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person stated that Bremer could be open to an exit from Turin in search of greener pastures. However, a contrasting update has now emerged from Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio that will hardly please United fans. Bremer not planning Juventus exit Bremer is not looking to leave this summer and is even willing to extend his stay at the club, according to Di Marzio. The journalist wrote: “Despite rumours suggesting the Brazilian might leave Turin this summer transfer window of his own accord, the centre-back – according to information obtained by our editorial team – intends to remain with the Bianconeri and would like to extend his stay for a long time to come.” Di Marzio goes on to insist that Juventus’ director of football strategy, Giorgio Chiellini, is the reason for Bremer’s decision. He continued: “One reason, in particular, is his long-standing admiration for Giorgio Chiellini.” “The former Italian defender, now Juventus’ Director of Football Strategy, is an idol for Bremer, who would like to follow in his footsteps and end his career with Juventus. For his part, there has been – and still is – no indication that he wishes to leave. He is very happy at Juventus and wants to stay.” The journalist added that the Brazilian is least pleased with the rumours circulating in the media of a possible departure from Turin, as he has no desire to leave. Di Marzio also confirms that the player has not received any offer to tempt him to change his stance. He concludes: “In the transfer market, of course, anything can always happen, but as things stand there are no circumstances that would lead to his departure, nor are there any offers that are causing him to waver from his current stance.” Final Thoughts United are unlikely to be too disheartened by the recent developments, given that Bremer will turn 30 in March. Instead, the Red Devils should continue their pursuit of a younger replacement for Maguire such as Chelsea starlet Josh Acheampong. Feature image Omar Veiga 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.
Maguire admits Amorim was inches away from making grave error that would’ve spelt disaster for United
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has revealed that former head coach Ruben Amorim was just inches away from making a transfer mistake that would have had serious repercussions for the club. Disastrous spell Amorim was sacked by United in January this year, bringing to an end an extremely turbulent 14-month stint in the dugout. Appointed in November 2024 as a replacement for Erik ten Hag, Amorim arrived to much fanfare and expectation. However, he struggled to have an immediate impact, as he went about trying to implement his controversial 3-4-2-1 system. There were calls for him to change his approach and adopt a style of play that was more suited to the players at his disposal, but he stubbornly stuck to his principles. He led the Red Devils to a lowly 15th-place finish in the Premier League, while also losing to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final. The start of the 2025/26 campaign was slightly more positive, but defeats like the 3-1 loss to Brentford in September served as timely reminders that the team was not out of the woods yet. As the January transfer window neared, Amorim became increasingly agitated, presumably by the club’s hesitance to dip into the market for reinforcements. The final straw was his rants before and after the draw with Leeds, in which he publicly aimed digs at the hierarchy. It later emerged that his relationship with director of football Jason Wilcox had broken beyond repair. United named Michael Carrick as Amorim’s replacement. Carrick’s hiring proved to be a masterstroke by INEOS. The legendary midfielder secured a third-place finish with multiple games to spare and subsequently secured Champions League football after a two-year absence. Carrick was handed the job on a permanent basis in May. Perhaps Amorim’s most inexplicable act while at United was his handling of Kobbie Mainoo. For reasons best known to himself, the Portuguese coach often overlooked Mainoo, even preferring the uninspiring Manuel Ugarte over him. One of Carrick’s first calls was restoring Mainoo to the team. The Carrington academy graduate played a key role in United’s brilliant run since the turn of the year. His performances earned him a place in the England squad for the 2026 World Cup. He did not feature in the opener against Croatia but will be hoping for minutes later this evening when the Three Lions face Ghana. Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast on Netflix, Maguire attempted to explain Amorim’s treatment of Mainoo. Maguire also acknowledged that selling Mainoo would have been a grave error by United. Maguire’s remarks Asked why Amorim didn’t trust Mainoo, and whether the United defender was baffled like everyone else outside United, Maguire said, “I think it all stemmed down to that we played a formation where it was two (in midfield) and he wanted Bruno to be one of those two.” “I think he wanted a real defensive one alongside Bruno, and Kobbie was young, inexperienced and didn’t know the position as well.” “If Ruben was still the manager now, Kobbie would probably have been shifted on and be looking for a new club.” Maguire added, “It would have been a mistake; he’s a Manchester lad, he’s come through the academy, and we want those players in our club to drive our club forward for the next 10 years.” “Hopefully he’s at the club for the next 10 years because he has the ability to do so.” Last week, Amorim was named the new AC Milan boss following Massimiliano Allegri’s dismissal. 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 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’s pursuit of Mateus Fernandes rocked as West Ham star wants to join major PL rival instead – report
Manchester United face one fewer rival for Mateus Fernandes after Real Madrid reportedly pulled out of the fiercely contested race for the 21-year-old midfielder, though the Spanish giants’ reasoning will cause panic at Old Trafford. Eyed by Europe’s Elite Despite suffering the ignominy of back-to-back relegations, first with Southampton and now West Ham, Fernandes remains one of the most in-demand players in the market this summer, with a host of top clubs across Europe identifying him as a target. The Red Devils are understood to be frontrunners, having held talks with the player’s camp and received confirmation that he considers a switch to M16 a ‘dream move’. The chance to play in the Champions League alongside his boyhood idol, Bruno Fernandes, is a strong motivator. However, Arsenal, Aston Villa, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur have all expressed interest in the West Ham starlet, while on the continent both Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are admirers as well. Driven by Jose Mourinho, who has returned to the Santiago Bernabeu 13 years after his first spell, Los Blancos have made advances to gauge the viability of a deal, with the ‘Special One’ understood to want more energy and work rate in midfield. The Portuguese tactician is even willing to sacrifice members of his existing cohort, including potentially Aurélien Tchouaméni and Eduardo Camavinga, to fund a pursuit, with the two compatriots represented by the same agent, Jorge Mendes. Real rule themselves out But Spanish outlet AS now reveals Real Madrid have “ruled out” a move for Fernandes after making an “initial enquiry”, because the one-cap Portugal international “prefers to go to Tottenham, where he believes he has more opportunities to develop.” At the request of new manager Roberto De Zerbi, Tottenham are moving aggressively to overhaul the Italian’s squad. A £52 million deal has already been struck to reunite him with Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke, while an £85 million bid for Sandro Tonali has been rejected by Newcastle United. But the Lilywhites are also pursuing Fernandes, despite the rivalry with West Ham, as De Zerbi has identified the spine of his side as the key weakness which almost saw them face relegation themselves. The fact that Real Madrid have bowed out due to their belief in Spurs’ stranglehold on the race for the Olhão native will send shockwaves down the corridors of power at Old Trafford. However, there is a growing sense in M16 that the noise around Fernandes is being primarily driven by Mendes, who has a well-earned reputation for extracting maximum value for his clients through these exact tactics. United’s hierarchy are understood to remain confident in their pursuit of the midfielder, though West Ham’s refusal to budge on an £80 million valuation is proving difficult to overcome. The Athletic reveals a formal offer is expected soon, suggesting belief that a compromise can be struck. Interestingly, AS claims Real Madrid have now pivoted towards Chelsea maestro Enzo Fernández instead, with talks already underway to prise him from Stamford Bridge. Featured image Justin Setterfield 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.
