Manchester United have regularly raided Spanish clubs to strengthen their academy. In recent times, the Red Devils convinced Alejandro Garnacho and Álvaro Carreras to leave Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid respectively for Carrington. Both failed to remain in Manchester for long but helped United secure more than £50 million in transfer fees. The tables appear to have turned, with Spanish clubs now targeting United academy stars. Darlington Osuchukwu set for a move to Spain According to journalist Paddy Keogh, highly-rated goalkeeper Darlington Osuchukwu is set to leave Manchester United, with the youngster expected to return to Spain this summer. Born in Murcia, Osuchukwu, who is a giant for his age, is regarded as one of the most promising prospects within the academy ranks. He has made steady progress through the setup since joining United from Spanish side Gazte Berriak at the age of 13. The 16-year-old has committed to representing Spain’s under-17 side despite some involvement with England youth squads. At United, he features prominently for the under-16s and has also been named on the bench for the under-18s. Last year, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Real Madrid are interested in Osuchukwu. However, for now, the name of his next Spanish destination remains unknown. Teammates Jaume Camacho and Josep Camacho have already shared farewell messages for Osuchukwu. On Instagram, Camacho posted a picture of the pair with a message: “End of an era bro, hasta pronto”. La Liga powerhouses chasing JJ Gabriel United also face a battle to keep hold of JJ Gabriel, who is by far the club’s finest academy jewel at present. The electric winger turns 16 in October and holds an Irish passport thanks to his father, former Ireland international Joe O’Cearuill. This makes him a potential “flight risk” for United because he is allowed to play in the European Union from the age of 16. Recently, The Peoples Person covered a report suggesting Barcelona and Real Madrid are “closely tracking” the situation in hopes of luring Gabriel to Spain. 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 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!
United youngster set to join Spanish club, teammates have already bid farewell – report
Ex-United forward recalls being left “embarrassed” by Cristiano Ronaldo in the sauna
Former Manchester United forward Antony has turned his career around since leaving Old Trafford permanently last summer. The Brazilian arrived at the Theatre of Dreams from Ajax in the summer of 2022 as one of the Red Devils’ most expensive signings, but he hardly lived up to expectations. Antony managed just 12 goals and nine assists in 96 appearances for the English giants, a meagre return for a player who reportedly cost around £82 million. After failing to convince then head coach Ruben Amorim, the 26 year old was sent on loan to Betis in January last year. Antony was so impressive in Spain that the LaLiga club ultimately signed him permanently this summer. The Brazilian has done very well since the move, registering 13 goals and nine assists in 41 games this season. Antony Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played LaLiga272575512,074′ UEFA Europa League109632-788′ Copa del Rey43-1–250′ Total4137139713,112′ Source: Transfermarkt. While his time at Old Trafford was nothing to write home about, Antony did get to share the pitch with Cristiano Ronaldo on seven occasions. Antony has now shed light on his experiences behind the scenes with the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. Learned a lot from Cristiano Ronaldo was in his second spell with United when Antony arrived at the Theatre of Dreams. Speaking to Globo Esporte, the Brazilian revealed he learned a lot from the Portuguese superstar. He said: “Cristiano Ronaldo is a great person, you learn a lot from him. He even joked with me once, saying that people think he’s stubborn, but in everyday life he’s very playful.” “I learned a lot from him. He talked about life, books, various subjects outside of football. That was good because it helped me disconnect. He would say, ‘Today we’re not going to talk about football.’ And that made us learn other important things.” “Once in the sauna he joked with me. He showed me his physique and asked if I looked 23 years old. I was even embarrassed because you see the level of care he takes even at almost 40. He’s a role model for everyone.” Unfortunately, Ronaldo’s second coming at Old Trafford failed to live up to expectations. The Portuguese ultimately left around six months after Antony’s arrival following a fallout with Erik ten Hag. No regrets about United move Antony went on to emphasise that, despite his struggles at Old Trafford, he has no regrets about joining United. He said: “Off-field issues have a big influence. I had some problems outside the pitch that hindered me. It was a complicated time, but it served as a learning experience and helped me mature.” “I don’t regret going to Manchester United, I’m grateful to the club. I learned a lot there, and being happy today at Betis is due to those difficult moments I experienced in England.” Having invested heavily in the attack last summer, United have hardly missed the Brazilian this season. The Red Devils have also scored 60 goals in 34 Premier League games so far, a huge improvement on their return of 44 goals in 38 league games last campaign. Final Thoughts Antony will go down as one of United’s most controversial transfers in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era. However, INEOS have shown promise in their recent recruitment, especially last summer, and fans will be optimistic about the upcoming transfer window as well. Featured image Gabriele Maltinti 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.
“We’re in good shape”: Carrick “hopeful” crucial star will be fit to face Liverpool on Sunday
Interim Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has been speaking to the media ahead of the Red Devils’ Premier League clash against arch rivals Liverpool on Sunday. United need a win to clinch Champions League football next season, although a draw might be enough if Brighton don’t get three points against Newcastle on Saturday. Injury News Carrick was first asked about the fitness of Matheus Cunha, Matthijs de Ligt and Luke Shaw. “No, we’re in good shape really,” he answered. “Matheus has done a little bit of work so we’re hopeful, we’re not sure but we’re hopeful. So obviously Matta’s still a little bit further, he’s not involved in the game but other than that, yeah, we’re in good shape.” On Kobbie Mainoo’s new deal The next reporter asked “obviously yesterday the club announced Kobbie Mainoo signed his new deal till 2031. How big a boost is that to the club? And I saw Jason Wilcox describe him as one of the most naturally gifted young footballers in the world. What’s your take on him?” Carrick replied: “Yeah, I’ve been hugely impressed with Kobbie since I’ve been here. I’ve known him quite some time and in different capacities, but certainly been aware of him for a long time. And he epitomises this football club, you know, young players coming through the academy, living, living, breathing the club and coming through with real talent. I’ve seen what he’s doing, the last couple of games particularly, I think he’s been fantastic and the natural thing and the evolution is to obviously sign a new contract. So everyone’s over the moon with that, including me, because I think he deserves it.” The BBC’s Simon Stone then asked: “When we spoke to you a couple of weeks ago about Leeds, we spoke about the rivalry, and you’ve not played that often against them. Clearly you’ve played quite often against Liverpool. Would you still regard it as the biggest game for Manchester United, no matter where the clubs are in the league?” The boss answered: “Certainly one of my favourite games, yeah, without doubt. I think it’s a standout game. I think there’s obviously big games and big rivalries that we have with other teams, but certainly this one is right up there in the history, the ups and downs the past has produced in these type of games, and the excitement and entertainment, and the emotion, which is a huge part of it. It makes it a really special game.” Stone asked “If you think about the game, what thing do you think of first?” “It’s just that edge and that competition, really, and irrespective of league positions over the years, of who’s been on top at certain times or whatever, it’s never really changed the feeling of the game and the emotion and the supporters,” Carrick answered. “And really appreciating what it means to the supporters, I think we have to do that. It’s just a special game, you know, to be part of, and obviously to come out on top is one of the best feelings you’ll get.” The subject then moved back to Mainoo’s new deal. “He hadn’t started a Premier League game until your return,” the reporter noted. “I just wondered, putting football aside, what was it like to first talk to him when you came back? Because I imagine he probably wasn’t full of confidence having not played a lot of football, maybe having that first dip of the early part of his career. So what was that like with Kobbie the person rather than Kobbie as a footballer?” The Wallsend man replied: “Like all the players, I think trying to get that connection and understanding and building relationships, certainly understanding what it had looked like for Kobbie over the last two, three years and the ups and the downs and the big highs and some challenging times and letting him thrive, just giving him that platform to go and be himself.” “And I think he’s evolved, he’s improving all the time. I think you can see that the more responsibility, the more confidence, the more belief he keeps adding to his game, and he’s certainly done that. But yeah, just giving him that platform and that opportunity to go and be the best version, and he’s done fantastic with it. There’s more to come, there’s loads more to come. I keep saying that for some time because he’s such a young man, you know, but he’s in a great spot at the moment.” Asked what he thinks Mainoo could achieve by the time his new contract expires, Carrick answered: “Well, hopefully he’s here for a long time and he’s part of successful teams that win things, win trophies. It has to be the aim. It’s not going to be easy, it’s not going to be straightforward, but that’s got to be the challenge and that’s got to be the aim of Kobbie, is to be the best version of himself and keep pushing, keep improving. But certainly having a platform of a team and, and a football club that’s in a good place to keep pushing forward as well, and we want to be competing for the biggest of trophies, and we’ve done it in the past and we need to do it again.” Squad depth Carrick was then asked if he thinks “the squad is deep enough and big enough to compete on maybe four fronts next year and play 60 games rather than 40?” He replied: “Well, it’s certainly a different challenge to what we’ve had over the last three or four months. It’s a natural one. I think it’s where we want to be, so it’s a real positive if that is the case. If we get in the position that we want to finish in the league to be able to do that. And obviously evolving all the time, you know, I think always trying to improve, always trying to be stronger, whether that’s quality, whether that’s depth, whether that’s the makeup of the squad, the balance of the squad, the balance of the team, constantly pushing to move forward really.” Casemiro’s longevity Jamie Jackson then asked “you played central midfield for this club until you were sort of 36, 37. Casemiro’s now 33, 34. What’s the key to doing it as you get a little bit older? Why has Casemiro been so good this year? And also, do you actually give him any advice, or you just don’t need to because he is quite an accomplished player?” The manager responded: “Yeah, it’s quite interesting in terms of how much you give certain players. Even younger players, you think sometimes you need to help them a lot and give them a lot. Other times you actually— a little bit like the Kobbie scenario really, of knowing when to come off and just let them develop and let them thrive.” “There’s a little bit certain players want more than others. And then there’s the stage when there’s a lot of experience and you’re kind of crossing the 30 mark and you’re in them stages. Players are a lot of the time a little bit what they are and trusting them to know themselves as well and speaking to them on a level really where there’s an understanding there.” “And certainly with Case, that’s been the case of knowing what he’s good at, what he can bring to the team, trying to play to his strengths if anything. And having that real trust in his experience and the level that he has. And to play for so long at such a level, it takes a lot. It takes a lot of sacrifice. It takes a lot of work.” “It’s not easy. That was something I was personally proud of, sustaining it for a period of time. And certain players have different types of careers. There’s big spikes and maybe a bit of a dip. Some players are a bit more steady. But to do what he’s done over such a long period of time takes a lot of credit. Well, it takes a lot of work and a lot of credit from everyone for doing what he has.” The boss was then asked what it would mean to finish ahead of Liverpool this season. “Yeah, I just think this probably shows the improvements of the group really and getting stronger and then to be coming into this game in such a good position on the back of good results and trying to achieve and moving forward,” he replied. “So I’m fully aware of the situation in the league and how close it is between us, but that’s not something really we’ve focused on going into this game. I think it’s a one-off game. I think they’ve got some terrific players, they’re a good team, they won the league last year, and obviously we respect everything that goes into the game. So we’re treating it as that, as a one-off game. The league position is what it is, but Sunday’s a whole different ball game.” The next reporter asked “what does it say about the respective standings of yourselves and Liverpool and the enduring global appeal of both clubs that even though you’re not going for the title, even though it’s between City and Arsenal, this is still the standout game, the biggest game, and it’ll be watched around the world by tens of millions of fans. What does that say about the two clubs?” He answered: “First of all, it’s a real privilege for all of us to be involved in it, in whatever capacity. And I think that’s the beauty of football though, in the end, we all get wound up at times in different ways about what’s going on week to week from club to club and the ups and downs. But talking about a career as an individual, of sustaining a career, but to sustain a level of performance over a period of time for each football club. And then there’s a way of how you do it as well and what the standards look like, what it means, what the behaviours and what you stand for as a football club. It’s two incredible, incredible football clubs. And to be so close together in so many ways, titles and geographical, it’s not, not far away. To have such an impact for us over such a period of time is quite special, you know, and I think we all appreciate that.” The embargoed section of the press conference will be released just after 10.30pm tomorrow evening and will be covered here in full. 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 Red Billy Red Billy is the managing editor of The Peoples Person, author of three books and two magazines and totally obsessed with football’s transfer market. Billy first saw United live in 1971, watching George Best, Bobby Charlton and Denis Law, before becoming a League Match ticket book holder from 1975/76 and a writer since 1995. Billy still insists Matteo Darmian and Alex Telles could have made it at United given half a chance.
“It’s sometimes harder than…”: Bruno Fernandes spills the beans on United’s new secret weapon
Manchester United may have invested more than £200 million in the attack last summer, but none of their new signings have been more influential than Bruno Fernandes this season. The Red Devils oversaw an attacking overhaul last year, with several of the deadwood offloaded on loan or permanent deals. INEOS invested heavily in Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, who have already cemented their place in the starting XI this season. Sesko is now the club’s top scorer with 11 goals to his name, while Cunha and Mbeumo have been equally decisive. However, United have relied heavily on their mercurial skipper Fernandes to power them to third in the Premier League table after 34 games. The Portuguese is now an assist away from equalling Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry’s record of 20 Premier League assists, and he has four games to make history. Bruno Fernandes Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League31318194-2,708′ FA Cup11-1–90′ EFL Cup10—-45′ Total33328204-2,843′ Source: Transfermarkt.More freedom under Carrick Fernandes recently sat down with Opta Analyst to discuss his form since arriving in England. When asked about his transition from goalscorer to creator-in-chief in recent times, the Portuguese said: “It’s about space. Over the years, teams know you better, so they don’t want to allow you as much space as they probably would have allowed me when I first came to the club because they didn’t know me as much.” Fernandes has had a lower non-penalty expected goals (0.14) per 90 under caretaker manager Michael Carrick than under previous managers but is enjoying a higher expected assists (0.40). The Portuguese was deployed in a pivot role by former head coach Ruben Amorim earlier this season, before Carrick reinstated him in his favoured No. 10 position. Fernandes outlined how the Englishman has given him more freedom to express himself, adding: “I float a lot in that zone there now with Michael [Carrick]. He doesn’t want me to just be stuck in the middle, so often asks me to find that pocket [of space].” The Portuguese also explained why he has drifted more to the right, stating: “The outswing crosses are very dangerous. The inswing cross is much harder for them to head the ball as there’s less power on the ball normally and not as easy for them to put power on the ball when heading.” Set-piece prowess Fernandes has set up 10 goals from set pieces this season, just one short of Steven Gerrard’s record from the 2013/14 campaign. The Portuguese has been key to his team’s recent set-piece dominance, with only Arsenal (22) scoring more non-penalty set-piece goals than United (20) this season. Fernandes went on to suggest that creating goals from set plays is actually a lot tougher than it looks, adding: “When we talk about set-pieces and needing to hit the ball in the right space, it’s sometimes harder than a standard pass. The way corners and free-kicks have been, my teammates ask me and demand where they want the ball. Sometimes I’m going to get it right, sometimes not so much.” “I will tell you that five years ago, I would go to take a corner and just put the ball into the middle of the box and let’s see if someone gets it. And nowadays I have to hit a spot, so sometimes it’s even harder to get an assist from a set-piece than it actually is in open play.” The importance of taking risks Fernandes is often criticised for losing possession, but it is an outcome of his tendency to take risks, a trait he shares with some of the most creative players in the history of the beautiful game. The United skipper insists operating in the No. 10 position demands more risks, stating: “The position I play requires more risk than the other ones.” “When you play in a team where you probably have to be the one to try and create chances more often than other players, you’re going to end up missing more opportunities and more chances than the others.” The Portuguese has registered the most progressive passes under high pressure (91) in the Premier League this season. Fernandes further elaborated on the matter, adding: “It’s about putting the stats together with the eye test to understand why you missed that shot or a pass.” “If I miss a pass trying to make something happen by playing the ball forward, I don’t mind it. Because if I don’t take that risk, I might miss eight out of 10, but I’ll get at least one right, and we win the game by that.” Final Thoughts Bruno Fernandes has created 114 chances in the Premier League this season, five short of his personal best from the 2022/23 campaign. Second on that list this season are Declan Rice and Dominik Szoboszlai (61), highlighting the gulf in class between the Portuguese and the rest of the league. If United are to compete for the league next season, they must sort out their talismanic skipper’s future, especially since his current contract expires in just over a year. Very few players have had as much impact on a Premier League club in recent years as Bruno Fernandes has at Man Utd. 2025-26 has been one of his best, with the Portuguese now just one assist away from equalling the Premier League seasonal record. pic.twitter.com/BoLOX4us8n — Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) May 1, 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.
“For the last few years…”: Anderson names favourite United player from current squad
Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes has already etched his name in Old Trafford folklore. The Portuguese Magnifico, who rose through the ranks at Boavista and also spent time in Serie A with Udinese and Sampdoria, first gained prominence with Sporting. The 31 year old’s performances prompted the Red Devils to prise him away in January 2020, and the player took no time to settle in the Premier League. Such was his influence that, despite only playing half a season for the English giants, he was named the club’s Player of the Season at the end of the campaign. Fernandes has since won the trophy three more times and could create history by winning it again this year. The Portuguese, however, has more records in sight in the coming weeks. Fernandes has 19 Premier League assists to his name this season, one short of the record held by Kevin De Bruyne and Thierry Henry. With four games remaining, the Portuguese could write his name among the legends of the league. Bruno Fernandes Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League31318194-2,708′ FA Cup11-1–90′ EFL Cup10—-45′ Total33328204-2,843′ Source: Transfermarkt. The United skipper’s tenacity, brilliance on the ball, vision, and work ethic have all made him the darling of the Old Trafford faithful. Former Red Devils midfielder Anderson has now lavished praise on Fernandes. United’s most important player Anderson was recently asked by United legend and former teammate Rio Ferdinand on Rio Ferdinand Presents to name his favourite player from the current squad. The Brazilian did not bat an eyelid in naming Fernandes and also explained what sets him apart from the rest of the squad. He said: “Now, I think for me it’s Bruno Fernandes, for the last few years he’s done it by himself. Not by himself, but he’s been more important because I think Manchester have done some, not the right choices for the club.” “For this club, you need to not just be an unbelievable player, you need to understand the club.” Fernandes has registered 106 goals and 106 assists in 323 appearances for the English giants to date. The Portuguese is only the third player after Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney to register 100 goals and 100 assists for United in the club’s history. United should have signed Neymar Fernandes has certainly been one of United’s best signings in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era. However, Anderson went on to argue that the Red Devils should have also targeted Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, adding: “I don’t understand, they have money, they pay, they have money to buy big players.” “Players resolve the problem, they don’t hide, I don’t know why when Neymar is fit they don’t take Neymar from PSG. They don’t take Mbappe from PSG, these are big players, some clubs need big players.” United have moved away from superstar signings of late and are now trying to pick up the next big talent before they become household names. Neymar, meanwhile, has also struggled with injuries in the recent past, so the club’s decision is understandable. Final Thoughts Fernandes will enter the final year of his contract this summer and is yet to sign a new deal. A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that United want their talisman to stay, but he wants assurances about the club’s ambitions before signing a new deal. 📊Most chances created by month in the Premier League this season: ◉ Aug: Bruno Fernandes (12) ◉ Sep: Jack Grealish (12) ◉ Oct: Phil Foden (12) ◉ Nov: Jeremy Doku (14) ◉ Dec: Martin Odegaard (20)◉ Jan: Bruno Fernandes (13) ◉ Feb: Morgan Gibbs-White (15)◉ Mar:… pic.twitter.com/OXPC2dGwFT — Squawka (@Squawka) April 30, 2026 Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social 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.
With World Cup fever about to ramp up, United’s top 10 international appearance makers named
Manchester United’s players have been huge protagonists on the international stage for decades and have tasted substantial success on the global stage. This can be seen in recent years when Paul Pogba won the World Cup in 2018 with France and Lisandro Martinez in 2022 with Argentina. With the World Cup starting next month, many United players will be dreaming of making their mark on the biggest of global stages. Here is a comprehensive list of the top 10 United players who have the most international caps to their name. Man United players with most international caps PlayerNationsAppearancesGoalsYears Active Cristiano RonaldoPortugal2261432003- Angel Di MariaArgentina145312008-2024 Edinson CavaniUruguay 136582008-2022 Edwin van der SarThe Netherlands13001995-2008 Romelu LukakuBelgium124892010- Zlatan IbrahimovicSweden122622001-2023 Wayne RooneyEngland120532003-2018 David BeckhamEngland115171996-2009 NaniPortugal112242006-2017 ChicharitoMexico109522009-2019 1) Cristiano Ronaldo The Portugal legend has incredibly played 226 times for his nation and is still going, likely to lead the line for his nation in the upcoming World Cup. At 41 years old, this upcoming tournament will be his sixth as Ronaldo aims to guide his side to glory. 2) Angel Di Maria While far from a United legend after spending just one year at the club in the 2014-2015 season, Di Maria is an all-star for his nation. The winger played 145 times for his country and was part of the side that won the World Cup in 2022. 3) Edinson Cavani The Uruguayan only spent two seasons at United but was a cult hero as supporters fell in love with his goalscoring antics. He played an incredible 136 times for his nation, scoring 58 goals and playing in numerous World Cups and Copa Americas, being crowned champion in 2011. 4) Edwin Van der Sar United’s legendary keeper kept playing until he turned 40 and was also a stalwart for his international side. The former Juventus and Ajax man kept goal for the Dutch for many years and helped his side come close to glory on numerous occasions. 5) Romelu Lukaku The Belgian’s club career has stalled lately as he struggles for game time at SSC Napoli. There was a time, though, when he was one of the hottest strikers in world football and he boasts an incredible goalscoring record for his nation with 89 strikes. 6) Zlatan Ibrahimovic The impressive Swedish striker towered over his international opponents for numerous years, scoring 62 times for his nation. 7) Wayne Rooney Rooney held the distinction of being his club and country’s top scorer for a while before Harry Kane knocked him off the top of England’s all-time list. The Englishman, who won everything at club level, will be disappointed never to have won silverware for his nation. 8) David Beckham Beckham played 115 times for his nation and captained the side for numerous years. He had a rollercoaster time, from being public enemy number one after being sent off against Argentina in 1998 to being the hero in 2002 when his penalty defeated the same opponents. 9) Nani The United winger played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo for many years at international level and was part of the 2016 Euros winning squad. He played over 100 games for his nation and only retired from international football in 2017. 10) Chicharito The United super sub Chicharito managed over 100 appearances for his national side and scored 52 goals in a decade of service for his nation. 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 Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
“Absolutely. No doubt.” Skinner defiantly bites back at criticism over United Women’s performances
Manchester United Women welcome Brighton & Hove Albion to the Progress with Unity Stadium as their Champions League hopes for next season continue to fade. Marc Skinner’s side are currently four points behind Chelsea in second place and would need the Blues to drop points against Leicester City this weekend, before beating their great rivals in the final match of the season. Ahead of United’s Saturday match against Brighton, head coach Marc Skinner spoke to the press. Leah Galton departure Skinner first addressed Leah Galton’s departure from the club this summer, which was announced earlier this week. He claimed, “first and foremost, she deserves to be honoured. I’ve worked with a lot of high-level wingers, but I’ve never met a player quite like Leah. Her ability to beat players and her pace — it’s incredible. She’s made a massive impact on this club and leaves a real legacy. She’ll always be welcome back here with her family.” Brighton Skinner took the time to praise Saturday’s opponents, Brighton, and in particular their recent form against top teams such as Manchester City and Arsenal. He stated, “when we go into this game against Brighton, we have to be at that level where we’re attacking and putting Brighton on the back foot. If we do that, then we can win the game. But there’s definitely growth from them, and I’m sure they’ll be happy with where they’re at.” Injury updates After the return of Ella Toone in the last match, Skinner confirmed that “everyone else is back, barring Terry (Elisabeth Terland) and Dom (Dominique Janssen), who are back training on the field. It’s probably come a little bit too early for them, so maybe the Chelsea game they could be involved.” He also confirmed that Galton was training this week and could make a return to the first team on Saturday. His own future After a highly successful start to the season, United have fizzled out over the final two months, exiting all the cups and now looking destined to miss out on the top three league places that secure European football. Skinner’s own future has also come under pressure at times. The head coach was then asked if he still thinks he is the right person to lead the team forward, and he gave a defiant response. He retorted, “absolutely. Absolutely — no doubt. From my perspective, you’ve seen the growth of our team over the years that we’ve been alive. If you look at the job we’ve done over that duration, there have been highs and lows — of course there are in any season.” Skinner also suggested that the board and club were fully behind him, and he claimed, “yeah, absolutely. We’re fully aligned — there’s no doubt about that. Whatever people say about me, I have to focus on performances. I’ve always done that. I’m honest and truthful, and I’ll put myself in that position to make sure we get this team to winning ways.” Finally, he claimed the key to his side winning the match against Brighton was being more aggressive on the ball and starting to take the chances that they have been creating. Man United Women record vs Brighton Games playedMan United winsDrawsBrighton winsUnited goalsBrighton goals 1712143910 Source: aiscore.com 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 Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
United aim to seal European fate by breaking 10 year curse over fierce rivals
Manchester United will welcome Liverpool to Old Trafford on Sunday, looking to open up a six-point gap between the two sides in the league table. The two English giants have played one another 245 times, with United coming out on top on 92 occasions. Liverpool have been victorious 82 times, and there have been 71 draws between the two teams. Here are four plotlines to get the blood racing ahead of the huge match on Sunday afternoon. Man United record vs Liverpool Games playedMan United winsDrawsLiverpool wins 245927182 Source: 11v11.com Correcting poor record The Red Devils have found facing Liverpool tough going in recent years. The BBC reports that United have only won three of their last 19 league matches against their old enemy. Liverpool have also won three of their last five away visits to Old Trafford, including the last one when they thrashed Erik ten Hag’s side 0-3. In fact, August 2022 was the last time United beat Liverpool at Old Trafford, when goals from Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford secured a first league win for Ten Hag. United also came out on top in an incredible FA Cup quarter-final 4-3 in 2024, when Amad scored a winner in added time of extra-time. Chance for rare league double Owing to Liverpool’s recent success in the fixture, United have not been able to record a league double over the Anfield side since Louis van Gaal achieved it in the 2015–2016 season. A 3-0 win at Old Trafford was followed up with a 2-1 win at Anfield. United famously beat Liverpool 2-1 last October, with Harry Maguire scoring a late headed winner. Therefore, a victory on Sunday would see United achieve something they have not managed in a decade. United have a strong record against their great rivals historically, though, doing the double over them eight times in the Premier League era. Massive improvement in home form One of the reasons behind United’s massive strides forward this season has been their home form. Last season, they finished the league in 15th and had the 14th best Premier League home record. This season has seen a sea change in fortune, as they now have the third best home record and also currently sit in third place. If they were to beat Liverpool this weekend, it would be their seventh win in their last eight home matches. Champions League The Red Devils are inches from achieving their goal after vital victories over Chelsea and Brentford. Just two points from their remaining four matches would ensure that Champions League music will be heard once again at Old Trafford. Therefore, a win would see United secure qualification for Europe’s elite competition. If Brighton and Hove Albion drop points against Newcastle United on Saturday and AFC Bournemouth do not beat Crystal Palace on Sunday afternoon, the Reds will be guaranteed Champions League before their match even takes place. Featured image Michael Reagan 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 Alex Browne Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Alex has a Master’s degree from Queen’s University Belfast and La Universitat Rovira i Virgili in Tarragona, Spain. Having lived in the country since 2011, Alex is The Peoples Person’s Spanish football expert and is fluent in both Spanish and Catalan. He dreams of witnessing a United captain triumphantly hoisting the Premier League and Champions League trophy in the air once more.
From Italy: Man United star’s agent now working overtime to seal early summer transfer after ruthless Ratcliffe decision
Manuel Ugarte’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is seemingly working overtime to seal a summer transfer for the player after he has fallen hugely out of favour at Manchester United.According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the 25-year-old has been offered to both AC Milan and Juventus ahead of the window opening on June 15.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYManuel Ugarte: The state of playIt comes after United put a price tag of £25 million on Ugarte, which would be considered feasible in comparison to other midfielders for the Serie A clubs. Manuel Ugarte will be available for sale for around £25m this summer [@samuelluckhurst] — utdreport (@utdreport) April 28, 2026Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustWhile he has been deemed surplus to requirements at Old Trafford, the Montevideo native clearly did enough during his spells with Sporting Lisbon and Paris Saint-Germain to warrant such mega-money moves.PSG shelled out £51m to activate his release clause when he was plying his trade in Portugal, while the Red Devils paid £42m upfront to sign him from the French giants after only one season.Yet, it goes without saying that Ugarte’s value has plummeted since he has so noticeably struggled in the English top flight. 🗣️ “I don’t want to talk about specific players, it’s a team thing. When it’s a team thing, it’s a manager thing.” Rúben Amorim is asked about Manuel Ugarte’s effort in West Ham’s second goal and if there is a culture issue at United.#MUFC pic.twitter.com/3PtN9lfRXr — Stretford Paddock (@StretfordPaddck) May 11, 2025In the aftermath of his dismal display during the Reds’ defeat to Leeds United a fortnight ago, Sir Jim Ratcliffe is said to have personally made the call to facilitate Ugarte’s exit this summer. Appearances Starts Unused Minutes played 7 1 6 155 Ugarte’s record since Michael Carrick was appointedWhere might Ugarte end up if not Italy?That won’t deter foreign suitors from feeling as though he can still do a job for them, though.Some players simply cannot hack the Premier League, but can perform to a high standard elsewhere – just look at the likes of Antony and Rasmus Hojlund.Should Milan and Juventus rebuff Mendes’ proposal to negotiate a switch for his client, it’s previously been reported that Ajax and Galatasaray have had Ugarte on their shortlist since January.
Just in: Departing 43-year-old emerges as Carrick’s biggest threat for Man Utd role
While Michael Carrick could be the leading candidate for the permanent role at Manchester United, Andoni Iraola could still pip him for the job.The Red Devils sacked Ruben Amorim in January and brought in Carrick as an interim coach until the end of the season.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThe 44-year-old has been making the most out of this unexpected opportunity. He has thus far won nine of his first 13 matches in charge, while losing only two, and drawing as many.Andoni Iraola posing a threat to Michael Carrick’s confirmation at Man UtdThanks to his remarkable results, Carrick has placed Man Utd in third place, with only one win away from sealing mathematical qualification for the Champions League.Therefore, most pundits and observers believe Carrick has done enough to earn himself a permanent contract.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustThe 44-year-old’s chances have also been boosted by the unavailability of some of the biggest names in football management, the likes of Thomas Tuchel (England), Carlo Ancelotti (Brazil), and Luis Enrique (PSG), who are all expected to prolong their current tenures.And yet, INEOS could still launch a casting, even if it features less prominent profiles than the ones mentioned above.According to the Telegraph journalist Jason Burt, Iraola is now a genuine candidate for the Man Utd role, even if Carrick remains the ultimate favourite.The source insists that the Spanish tactician can be considered the Englishman’s most concrete challenger for the role.The Premier League giants have decided to delay any decisions until they officially book their place in the Champions League next season.But with this achievement looming ever closer, we can expect some major developments on this front in the coming days and weeks.Why Man United are considering IraolaSince taking over Bournemouth in 2023, Iraola has established himself as one of the most exciting up-and-coming head coaches in the Premier League.The 43-year-old saw some of his finest players getting sold in recent years, including Antoine Semenyo and Milos Kerkez. And yet, the Cherries continue to register impressive results under his guidance. He would like to bow out with a historic European qualification. Iraola’s Career Stats Apearances Average Points Bournemouth 123 1.41 Rayo Vallecano 136 1.46 CD Mirandés 49 1.45 AEK Larnaca 29 1.62 While it remains to be seen if the Spaniard will achieve this objective, his departure from Vitality has long been announced, with Marco Rose arriving as a replacement.As the source explains, Iraola, who is enticed by the possibility of living in London, has two capital suitors in Chelsea and Crystal Palace.The former midfielder’s dream role would have been at Athletic Bilbao, where he had spent the bulk of his playing career. However, the Basquan club has already reached an agreement with Edin Terzic.The Telegraph also points out that those close to Iroala refuse to label him as a ‘project’ coach who is stubborn in his ideas, insisting he’s much more pragmatic than he’s perceived.Nevertheless, many would struggle to understand the logic of ditching Carrick, who knows the club inside out and has already shown so much promise in his first three months at the club, in favour of an even younger manager with zero experience at managing big clubs.
