Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has indicated that Benjamin Sesko could return for Monday’s meeting with Bournemouth, but two other stars will certainly not be available for selection. United aiming to win consecutive games Having beaten Wolverhampton Wanderers 4-1 earlier this week, United will undoubtedly head into the Bournemouth game eager to make it back-to-back Premier League wins for just the second time this season. The victory over Wolves catapulted United to sixth place in the table. Three points against the Cherries would massively boost the club’s bid to finish within the guaranteed Champions League places. A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Amorim may have to get a result vs. Bournemouth without the services of Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt and Sesko. The trio missed training on Thursday, fuelling speculation that they are not fit enough for the contest. Speaking to reporters ahead of the game, Amorim has confirmed that Maguire and De Ligt are still recovering but Sesko could play, although he is dealing with food poisoning. Amorim’s presser Amorim said, “Maguire is out De Ligt is out. Ben, we have to see if he is available. He had some food poisoning – we have two trainings still.” He further noted about De Ligt, “I think he has something in his back. I don’t know for sure. He finished the game against Crystal Palace, but sometimes he feels pain, and we have to be careful with that.” There are still doubts over whether Amad, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui will feature against Bournemouth as they are required to be with their respective national teams ahead of the start of the Africa Cup of Nations. Asked about the three players, Amorim answered, “We are still in conversations with the national teams. The game is Monday, they are here and training, but we are preparing all the scenarios for the game.” The Portuguese coach added, “I don’t know if it’s going to be the same situation. It depends on the games and every national team has an idea of when they want their players. I expect to know today.” “It’s frustrating, but at the same time, nobody knows who is going to play, so it’s a good thing. We have players to cope with everything. With a long week, you can see a lot of things and work on stuff to prepare for any situation.” Mason Mount has picked up form over the past few weeks, with the England international playing a key role in United’s uptick in performances and results. When Mount starts, United boast an impressive win rate of 71.4% in comparison to the 25% whenever he doesn’t start. Mason Mount’s impact for Manchester United this season 🔴 pic.twitter.com/k9slPwA1FV — Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 12, 2025 Having been made aware of this stat, Amorim explained, “I think it’s hard to make that connection. It’s a fact [good record when Mount starts], but it’s not just that. We have to look at the way the game was, but he’s a very, very smart player, he’s really technical.” “Because sometimes to be a technical player is not just having fun with the ball. It’s the quality of the pass, the reception, how to receive the ball, and with these things he’s really smart. He can balance our team quite well, so he’s a very good player.” Amorim was full of praise for Andoni Iraola and Bournemouth, warning that they remain a serious threat despite a slight decline in results. “I think they are a top team, top manager, with special players. I don’t look to their results, I look at the way they face every opponent, and they press really strong. They are really direct in the game, they can play with different options in front, which gives us a lot of options to work and prepare for the game.” “I expect a Premier League game that is really tough, but we need to win, especially at home, which is the goal.” He said about Iraola, “Special. The way they play the game like a big team, what he is doing for some players. He is improving players and you can look at that team and think several of their players can play at a high level, so it’s an amazing job from the manager.” United vs. Bournemouth kicks off at 8pm. Featured image Matt McNulty 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 massive bid shocks Real Madrid, 21-yo superstar destined to join Red Devils – report
Real Madrid have supposedly given up on their pursuit of Manchester United target Adam Wharton. Real are going through a rough patch under Xabi Alonso, whose star-studded side are crying out for a tempo-setter in the middle of the park, having lost Toni Kroos and Luka Modric in the space of just over a year. It has been widely reported that Los Blancos are interested in Wharton. However, United’s financial muscle have reportedly blown them out of the water. Manchester United in pole position to sign Adam Wharton According to Defensa Central, Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton “will almost certainly not be moving” to the Spanish capital. It is claimed United are willing to pay a lot more than Real president Florentino Pérez would for the Englishman’s services. The Premier League giants also desperately need a midfielder who doesn’t treat the ball like a hot potato. The Spanish outlet suggest United are set to launch a staggering €100 million bid to win the race for Wharton, who is known for his calmness under pressure and passing vision in possession. Adam Wharton Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League13-21-1,035′ Conference League5—-238′ UECL Qualifiers2—-180′ Community Shield1-1–85′ Total21-31-1538′ Source: Transfermarkt It is added that Wharton’s “immediate future points to” Old Trafford. Accordingly, Real are now considering signing Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar. The technically gifted Dutchman, who is also being monitored by United, has been compared to Luka Modric. Crystal Palace open to selling Wharton Wharton joined Palace from Championship outfit Blackburn Rovers in January of 2024. The 21-year-old is tied to Selhurst Park until the summer of 2029. Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming Palace have decided to sell Wharton if a significant offer comes in next summer. Wharton’s record breaking sale would allegedly help the Eagles offer a more lucrative deal to star striker Jean-Philippe Mateta. Featured image Eddie Keogh 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!
Kobbie Mainoo could earn a place in Amorim’s team if he makes this adjustment to his game – report
Kobbie Mainoo remains heavily linked with a move away from Manchester United in January after struggling for game-time under Ruben Amorim this season. The English midfielder has managed just 273 minutes of first-team action this season, and is yet to start a game in the Premier League. Kobbie Mainoo Stats CompetitionMatchesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League10––––183′ EFL Cup11–––90′ Total111–––273′ Source: Transfermarkt. Even Manuel Ugarte, who has divided opinion among fans since arriving at the Theatre of Dreams, has recorded more minutes (359) than Mainoo this season. Highly rated at Old Trafford Mainoo burst onto the scenes under former manager Erik ten Hag, and it was soon clear that United had a gem on their hands. The 20 year old’s composure, impressive ball control and vision enabled him to break into the national squad, and he even started the Euro 2024 final, which England lost 2-1 to Spain. Yet all of that appears to be from a different era at the moment, with Ten Hag’s departure putting a dent in Mainoo’s development. The youngster was in and out of the starting XI following Amorim’s arrival last season, but things have taken a turn for the worse this campaign. The Portuguese head coach has preferred the ageing pair of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro as his midfield pivot. Amorim’s decision to opt for experience over youth has hurt Mainoo, whose only start this season came in the disappointing defeat to Grimsby Town in the EFL Cup second round. The Englishman came off the bench in the final minutes of the 4-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this week and with the situation unlikely to change, an exit in the winter looks likely. Journalist Ben Jacobs has now outlined where the player has to improve to convince Amorim. Mainoo need to be more physical Speaking on The United Stand, Jacobs said: “Yeah I think the footballing intelligence of Mainoo is the area in which Amorim wants him to work.” “Specifically what he does, I’m told anyway, off the ball rather than on the ball. What we know about Kobbie Mainoo is that he’s technical, he has strong composure, when he has the ball at his feet he’s intelligent.” “Amorim wants someone who is more physical and can go into ‘beast mode’ which is what we see from Elliot Anderson. One area that is being worked on with Mainoo, who is very precise with the ball is how he gets the same precision of thought and movement off it.” A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Mainoo has a strained relationship with Amorim. Meanwhile, Napoli are reportedly eyeing a move for the Englishman in January, although the club’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, has remained tight-lipped about the matter. Final Thoughts United’s need for a physical midfielder is well documented, especially since Casemiro is on the wrong side of 30 and out of contract next summer. Amorim’s demands of Mainoo, as such, are understandable, especially as it appears that he is fighting with Bruno Fernandes for a place in the starting XI. Meanwhile, Casemiro has also been in inspired form this season, which has hurt the Englishman’s cause. However, with the Brazilian’s future uncertain, it is time Amorim tested the Mainoo-Bruno pivot in midfield. Unless the young midfielder secures regular game-time, he may be forced to consider a new adventure either in January or next summer. 🚨🏴 Napoli remain among +10 clubs keen on Kobbie Mainoo since August, still very attentive to the situation. Deal depends on Man United decision as Amorim doesn’t want to lose players while many are away for the AFCON. 🎥🇮🇹 https://t.co/tOuSsLKWqF pic.twitter.com/lIxereV3h0 — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 11, 2025 Featured image George Wood 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.
Bayern Munich transfer insider confirms club’s stance on Kobbie Mainoo ahead of January window
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has been linked with numerous clubs ahead of the January transfer window, including Bayern Munich. This comes as he continues to experience a limited number of minutes on the pitch. While he has appeared in ten Premier League games this season, he is yet to start a match. Understandably, this has resulted in a mountain of rumours about whether or not Mainoo will remain at Old Trafford, given his struggles to gain Ruben Amorim’s favour. The transfer race explodes A multitude of clubs appear to be taking an interest in Mainoo if reports are to be believed. Napoli have been heavily linked with the 20 year old. It was reported that the Italian club is expected to sign Mainoo in January on loan for the rest of the season. Furthermore, Man United’s bitter Premier League rivals Arsenal are also expected to be interested, while Real Madrid is allegedly monitoring the English midfielder. With Bayern also expected to jump into the race, the Bundesliga champions’ stance on the player appears to have been confirmed in a fresh update. Bayern’s view on Mainoo The Peoples Person relayed that Bayern are in contact with Mainoo’s representatives over a permanent move in January. Of course, this would almost certainly bring in more money than a short-term loan. But all might not be as it seems, according to Bayern transfer expert Christian Falk. “I heard other rumours that Bayern want to sign the Manchester United star in the winter. This is not a topic for Bayern Munich,” Falk confirmed in his CF Bayern Insider post. “For the summer, of course, they have a long shortlist for players in the midfield. They’re searching for a successor for Leon Goretzka, who is currently set to become a free agent in the summer.” “Kobbie Mainoo is a player who could be a prospective target, but Bayern are indeed searching for younger players,” Falk explained, adding, “I’m not sure if Mainoo fits in this, but of course he’s an option.” Strangely, it seems that the Bavarians may feel that a 20 year old is already too mature for their project, with the club instead focused on teenage signings. Still, Amorim could benefit by keeping Mainoo at the club, especially with the likes of Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo heading to the African Cup of Nations from late December until January. Featured image Shaun Botterill 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 Mathew Cohen A faithful Manchester United supporter, Mathew has worked as a football writer and analyst for SB Nation, FanSided, and now The Peoples Person. Mathew’s heroes include David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Alex Ferguson, all of whom played their part in creating some special childhood memories.
Manchester United closing in on transfer targets says Skinner
Manchester United head coach Marc Skinner says that the club are closing in on a couple of their January transfer targets. The Red Devils have lacked depth in their squad at times this season and Skinner is keen to add more depth and experience when the transfer window re-opens. When speaking in a Manchester United press conference, Skinner confirmed that the club are closing in on a couple of deals ahead of next month’s window. “We are already hopefully close to a couple of players which I think will be exciting,” Skinner said. We need to be creative within the parameters but what Id say is we need to add to the group. I must stress that it is not because of the quality of my players, its just the depth to be able to continue the experience, especially with the level of competition. Weve got Champions League, a tough game against Spurs, Champions League again and then a quarter-final. The level of competition is there. “The club have been looking into that and they have been for ages, so theres a plan, theres a focus. Hopefully, we are close to a couple and if we could bring in more, thatd be nice.” Commenting on where his squad may be strengthened, Skinner hinted at the attacking positions, although he’s keen to add to all areas. He said “We need to add to the frontline. Id like to add some depth to all of the units – defence, midfield and attack where we can have a little bit of adaptation so we dont become the same team. What I dislike is when we have one style, we need to mix that style. “I want to be bringing in players in each unit to freshen things up with quality and experience.” One player who could leave Manchester United is attacker Geyse who has been on loan at National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club Gotham FC. Skinner said that discussions on the player’s future are ongoing. He said “Right now, Geyse is in the off-season because she has played all the way through [for Gotham]. We are looking at all of the options, so either way, I dont know yet. The club are looking at it with Geyse and her representatives and everything is on the table at the minute.” Manchester United are next in action on Sunday when they play host to Tottenham Hotspur in the Barclays Women’s Super League. About The Author Daniel Pentland I am the editor and owner of the WSL Full-Time brand which I launched in 2018. I am an accredited journalist with the FWA, SJA and AIPS. I have reported from various levels of men’s and women’s elite football since 2016.
FA Cup fixture details announced
Friday 12 December 2025 12:30Manchester United will face Brighton & Hove Albion in the Emirates FA Cup third round at Old Trafford on Sunday 11 January.Ruben Amorim’s side will begin our quest for silverware at 16:30 GMT. The match will be broadcast live by TNT Sports from the Theatre of Dreams, as United bid to follow up on our 4-2 Premier League success against the Seagulls this term. Both sides will have three full days’ rest prior to the fixture, as United travel to Burnley and Brighton visit Manchester City in top-flight fixtures on Wednesday 7 January.January’s tie is a rerun of the 1983 final, which Ron Atkinson’s men won 4-0 in a replay, with skipper Bryan Robson scoring twice. The last time the two sides met in the competition was in the 2023 semi-final, when a penalty shootout was required to edge past the south-coast outfit, following a 0-0 draw at Wembley. All in all, we are unbeaten in eight FA Cup ties against our next cup opponents.The last time we lifted the trophy was in 2024, when goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo helped secure a memorable 2-1 triumph over Manchester City in the final. The Reds have won the famous competition 13 times, with only Arsenal boasting more successes on 14.Recommended:Friday 12 December 2025 12:30Back to Top
Small gains, big progress
Our exclusive shots from Thursday’s gym session are definitely worth a look.
Ex-Red urges United to sign PL star who met with Amorim over summer, he’s who the fans ‘want to see’
Nani has urged his former club, Manchester United, to try to facilitate a deal for Antoine Semenyo.It comes amid growing anticipation that the Bournemouth talisman will be on the move in the winter after it was confirmed that his contract contains a £65 million release clause (£60m upfront and £5m in add-ons).His fee and availability have sparked the interest of a host of clubs – such as strugglers Liverpool, who are again looking to splash the cash when the window opens in an attempt to rectify their turbulent title defence. Appearances Goals Assists 14 6 3 *Semenyo’s league record in 2025/2026 thus far (Transfermarkt)What happened with United and Semenyo over summer?(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)United, on the other hand, first established their desire to sign Semenyo back in the summer.Talks were held over a potential switch before they signed Bryan Mbeumo, with Manchester Evening News even claiming that Ruben Amorim met with the Cherries star to gauge where his head was at and whether he’d be enticed by the opportunity of moving to Old Trafford.Ultimately, nothing materialised from the discussions, and the Ghanaian went on to commit his future to Bournemouth by putting pen to paper on a five-year deal.However, it looks as though he only did so to ensure he could oversee a relatively seamless exit when he did decide to leave, thanks to the addition of the release clause. 🚨 Bournemouth may be powerless to prevent Antoine Semenyo sale in January. Contract includes £65m release clause – available to all clubs but must be triggered by set date so #AFCB get time to replace. Applies again in summer at lower price @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/jKz4rcH6qF — David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) November 17, 2025Nani would like to see Semenyo at United(Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)David Ornstein recently suggested United retain their interest in Semenyo heading into January – and Nani is encouraging them to act on it.“I think all the players who have the ability to move forward at speed, being able to dribble, able to shoot, to score goals, to assist and just have that general creativity in the moment would suit Manchester United,” said the four-time Premier League winner when pressed on United’s potential transfer business, as cited by the Metro.“That’s the type of player the fans want to see. However, we know that when players come to Man United, this is totally different. It’s a different environment, different pressure, different mentality, [and] different job, and then they have to adapt.“I hope that if we get Semenyo, he can come with his attitude, with this mentality, and he can put all of his talent on the field and help the team.”
United locked in transfer battle with Chelsea for 20-yo midfield general turning the PL into his playground – report
Manchester United are reportedly interested in Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki, who is also on the radar of another Premier League giant. United aiming to bolster midfield During the summer transfer window, United focused the bulk of their efforts on reinforcing their attacking department after a goal-shy 2024/25 campaign. United splashed in excess of £200m on the arrivals of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Brentford and RB Leipzig respectively. The club also snapped up goalkeeper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp on deadline day. United considered signing a midfielder, having identified Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba as their top target. However, a move for the Cameroonian was abandoned upon learning his excessive price tag. United postponed their plans to bring in a midfielder until next summer, when more funds are likely to be available for a top-class player. Interest in Baleba remains intact but he’s not the only one on the club’s list. Other options are Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) and Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest). United appear to be keen on acquisitions who have already proven themselves in England and according to Sky journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Sadiki also has admirers at Old Trafford. United want Sadiki Tavolieri claims that United will battle Chelsea for the signature of Sadiki, who has certainly looked the part since Sunderland’s return to the top flight. He has been crucial in the success the Black Cats have enjoyed this term as they currently sit in ninth place in the standings. Sadiki has started in 15 of the 16 games Sunderland have played, featuring for 90 minutes in all of them except last week’s 3-0 loss to Manchester City. A strong and athletic defensive midfielder, Sadiki has caught the eye with his exceptional reading of the game and ball-winning capabilities. While not a flashy playmaker, his passing is good, often keeping it simple and efficient. He can also be deployed in central defence. Tavolieri notes that both United and Chelsea are prepared to step up their pursuit of the 20-year-old. Chelsea have already been in contact, enquiring about Sunderland’s asking price. 🚨 EXCL – Man United en pince pour Noah Sadiki, Chelsea en contact direct avec… Sunderland ! 🐈⬛⚪️🔴 🇨🇩 Toutes les infos ICI ⤵️ 🗞️🔗 https://t.co/yvH42b8oO5 🇨🇭 @SkySportCH #mercato #MUFC #CFC #SAFC #RDC — Sacha Tavolieri (@sachatavolieri) December 12, 2025 United are also believed to have held discussions with Sadiki’s representatives and could turn to him if Baleba proves unattainable once again. Featured image George Wood 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!
