Manchester United academy icon Tony Whelan has opened up after being awarded an MBE in the King’s Honours List. United legend Whelan came through the youth ranks at United under Sir Matt Busby and later turned out for the reserves before he was brought back to serve in the academy by Nobby Stiles and Brian Kidd. He assumed multiple roles at United, including academy head of coaching and academy programme adviser. Whelan left United in January 2025 after 34 years of service, during which he was extremely popular and credited with the development of dozens of academy products in Carrington. A total of 97 academy graduates made their first-team debuts for United during his time at the club. In 2020, Whelan was awarded the Premier League’s Eamonn Dolan prize for his contributions to youth development. So it is only fitting that he has now been honoured with an MBE, adding yet further recognition for his services. Whelan’s statement The 73-year-old said in a statement, “I am profoundly honoured , humbled and moved to be appointed MBE in His Majesty The King’s 2026 Birthday Honours List. I accept it with sincere gratitude to the wonderful people I had the privilege to collaborate with in the various departments at Manchester United Football Club during my service there.” “No-one deserves recognition like this entirely on their own merit and, throughout my life (from schoolboy to youth soccer coach), I have rested gently in the bosom of some magnificent guardians, mentors and friends, who don’t realise how much they have contributed to my long-term personal and professional development.” “I will, forever, be indebted to them! Furthermore, it would be seriously remiss if I failed to acknowledge the countless young players I have been fortunate enough to meet. They have enriched my life immeasurably, bringing me boundless inspiration, happiness, joy and, above all, fun. I doff my cap to them!” He added, “It has been a lifetime passion to champion talented schoolboys aspiring to pursue a career in professional football.” “It is my hope that this award will highlight the supreme importance of this ethereal, magical, childhood world and the devotion, dedication and commitment of the staff who work within it.” “Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to those who have been extremely kind and generous to nominate me and to dedicate this accolade to my wife and family for their unconditional sacrifice, support, love and care throughout my coaching journey.” Former United star Lou Macari was also awarded an MBE for his work to tackle homelessness and his services to football. 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 academy legend issues heartfelt statement after receiving incredible national recognition
United’s pursuit of incredible midfield maestro rocked as Liverpool strike first – Fabrizio Romano
Manchester United are running out of time to strike a deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi as Premier League rivals Arsenal and Liverpool storm ahead in the race for the 18-year-old midfielder, according to new reports. Moroccan Maestro Bouaddi is widely considered one of the premier prospects in Europe after a superb campaign at the heart of LOSC Lille’s midfield. Despite beginning last season as a 17-year-old, he is already demonstrating an appetite for the game – both on and off the ball – which belies his age. Bouaddi possesses a 6’1″ frame and an unrelenting engine, racking up the fourth-most minutes out of any teenager in Europe’s top five leagues. But these hard yards are matched by high-level technique as well, with the French-born youngster – who only officially switched his allegiance to Morocco last month – excellent at evading the press and quick interchange. All of this “elite” skillset was on full display in Morocco’s opening match of the World Cup against Brazil, which finished 1-1 despite the Atlas Lions dominating large parts. In the sweltering heat of New York, Bouaddi was the coolest player on the pitch, completely outplaying a Brazilian midfield unit containing both Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes, with the former United star substituted at half-time by Carlo Ancelotti. It was the type of breakout performance on football’s grandest stage that announces an unknown talent to the world, though the Lille starlet has been firmly on the radar of top clubs for many years now – including the Red Devils. On the hunt for midfield reinforcements this summer, INEOS have identified Bouaddi as a “younger prospect” alongside Greek wonderkid Christos Mouzakitis, though West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes is understood to be the priority target after a £39 million deal was already struck for Ederson. However, the Moroccan maestro looks to be the most gifted midfielder of the bunch, as shown by Arsenal and Liverpool both accelerating their interest in recent weeks. United getting left behind A report relayed by The Peoples Person earlier this month revealed Arsenal had seen a £52m bid for Bouaddi rejected by Lille, though The Times claims the Gunners, fresh from their first English title in 22 years, have only opened talks with Bouaddi’s camp. However, Fabrizio Romano also states Liverpool have initiated contact with his agents, while Paris Saint-Germain “absolutely love” him as well. Lille are understood to prefer to sell abroad rather than to a direct rival, limiting the Ligue 1 and European champions’ chances, while club-to-club negotiations are yet to be formalised by either side. It is believed Les Dogues are content to wait until Morocco’s tournament has concluded, as their asking price will grow accordingly with Bouaddi’s burgeoning reputation in North America. A three-and-a-half-year contract signed in December only strengthens their negotiating position. When asked about his future by The Athletic, Bouaddi maturely responded: “For the moment, I am only focused on the World Cup and I cannot answer to this right now, Of course, I’m really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me. But, for now, I’m only focused on the World Cup with Morocco and we will try to give everything to do our best.” Final Thoughts United maintain an excellent working relationship with Lille, having stolen a march on both Real Madrid and PSG to sign Leny Yoro for £52m in the summer of 2024. Old Trafford’s hierarchy will need to repeat this trick quickly and decisively if they are to fend off their domestic rivals to sign the French club’s next outstanding offering. Feature image Christof Koepsel 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.
Why Amad has made World Cup history
Sponsor Image – white adidasSponsor Image – white Snapdragon NewsMUTVTicketsUnited StoreTeamsClubOne week to go!Be ready for PL ticketsBuy your 2026/27 MembershipBuy your 26/27 MembershipBuy your 26/27 MembershipPre-sale and 10% discountAC Milan ticketsClick hereClick hereNew home kitAmad 16 shirtsThe impressive IvorianShop nowShop nowRelated ContentYou might also like Amad reacts to being the toast of Ivory CoastNews8 hours agoAmad reacts to being the toast of Ivory CoastAmad reacts to being the toast of Ivory CoastNews8 hours agoAmad reacts to being the toast of Ivory CoastAmad scores winner as Ivory Coast beat EcuadorNews9 hours agoAmad scores winner as Ivory Coast beat EcuadorAmad scores winner as Ivory Coast beat EcuadorNews9 hours agoAmad scores winner as Ivory Coast beat EcuadorWhen Reds have previously met at World CupsFeatures4 days agoWhen Reds have previously met at World CupsWhen Reds have previously met at World CupsFeatures4 days agoWhen Reds have previously met at World Cups;
Watch Amad’s dramatic winner for Ivory Coast
Sponsor Image – white adidasSponsor Image – white Snapdragon NewsMUTVTicketsUnited StoreTeamsClubNew home kitAmad 16 shirtsThe impressive IvorianShop nowShop nowOne week to go!Be ready for PL ticketsBuy your 2026/27 MembershipBuy your 26/27 MembershipBuy your 26/27 MembershipRelated ContentYou might also like When Reds have previously met at World CupsFeatures4 days agoWhen Reds have previously met at World CupsWhen Reds have previously met at World CupsFeatures4 days agoWhen Reds have previously met at World CupsHow Fernandes is ‘ruling the roost’ alongside RonaldoFeatures2 days agoHow Fernandes is ‘ruling the roost’ alongside RonaldoHow Fernandes is ‘ruling the roost’ alongside RonaldoFeatures2 days agoHow Fernandes is ‘ruling the roost’ alongside RonaldoBruno’s World Cup underdogs might surprise youNews4 days agoBruno’s World Cup underdogs might surprise youBruno’s World Cup underdogs might surprise youNews4 days agoBruno’s World Cup underdogs might surprise you;
United hit by fresh uncertainty as blockbuster summer deal delayed again after weekend hype – report
Patience will be key in Manchester United’s move to seal the deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson. Club-to-club agreement Credible sources have confirmed that United and Atalanta have struck a deal for the Brazilian, with the Samba star set to move to Manchester for a £35 million fee with £3.8 million in add-ons. Yet, no sooner had reports of the agreement dropped than a fresh complication emerged. Ederson, who had not initially made Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad, received a late call-up to link up with the national team, replacing injured Roma right-back Wesley. The call-up meant that his medical for the Old Trafford switch would have to be postponed. When Ederson will have his medical On Saturday, a report relayed by The Peoples Person claimed that INEOS had decided to press ahead with the medical stateside, with the tests pencilled in for Sunday in the USA. That, however, never happened. Manchester Evening News have now stepped in with a sobering update on when the medical will actually take place, rubbishing claims it was imminent: “The deal is still only expected to be wrapped up once Brazil have been knocked out of the World Cup.” United fans, then, will simply need to be patient. The Ederson deal is going through, just not yet. Enjoy his World Cup showing In the meantime, supporters may as well settle in and watch whether Ancelotti hands the 26-year-old any minutes in the USA. Intriguingly, having come in as cover for a right-back, Ederson has reportedly been trialled in that position during Brazil training. Whether that is where he earns his minutes remains to be seen, but it should make for fascinating viewing for those already counting down the days to his Old Trafford arrival. Featured image by Marco Luzzani/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.
PL side demanding Earth-shattering fee to part with magical playmaker United are crazy for – Telegraph
Manchester United are desperate to keep hold of Bruno Fernandes for the foreseeable future. This is why INEOS are ready to smash their wage structure in order to convince their record-breaking superstar to stay for another four years. The 31-year-old‘s current deal is valid until next year, and even though the Red Devils have the option of triggering a one-year extension, they would prefer to see the club captain put pen-to-paper on a new deal. There is a general consensus that with the 20-time English league champions heading in the right direction under Michael Carrick, the Portugal international will rebuff interest from across Europe and Saudi Arabia to stay at the Theatre of Dreams. INEOS need to find the right successor for Bruno Fernandes However, the co-owners will be well aware of the fact that the time is drawing near for the club to find a successor for the best player in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era. CaughtOffside have claimed that Morgan Gibbs-White is on United’s radar following his impressive season for Nottingham Forest last time out. “Arsenal and Manchester United could face a major challenge if they decide to push seriously for Morgan Gibbs-White this summer, with Nottingham Forest determined to keep hold of one of their most important players.” The Englishman netted 18 times across all competitions while also registering seven assists, and his eye for goal and ability to create moments of magic have wowed scouts. Morgan Gibbs-White fits the bill, but his price remains a sticking point Arsenal are also lurking, but it will not be an easy deal to crack. The Telegraph have claimed that Forest will be demanding a record fee to let the former Wolverhampton Wanderers ace leave. “Anderson’s team-mate Morgan Gibbs-White is also the subject of high-profile interest, following a superb season, but Forest do not want to sell him and would demand close to the fee they have put on Anderson’s head.” The Manchester City target could fetch close to £125 million, a price United refused to match despite their concrete interest. So it makes it highly unlikely that INEOS will stump up a similar amount for Morgan Gibbs-White this summer. If he does not agree a contract extension with Forest, United could revisit their interest the following summer. Feature image Clive Brunskill via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
United superstar set for surprise World Cup position change, INEOS could copy this formula to save millions – report
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez enjoyed a stellar end to the campaign under Michael Carrick. The Argentine, who missed the first half of the season due to an ACL injury, was heavily involved after returning to full fitness at the end of November. Martinez was a rock at the back following Carrick’s arrival and the subsequent switch from the 3-4-3 system to the 4-2-3-1 formation. The 28 year old dominated play from the centre-back position, where his aggression and ball-playing skills helped propel United to third in the Premier League table last season. Indeed, the only games Martinez missed under Carrick were those for which he was injured or suspended. Lisandro Martinez Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsSecond Yellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League1813—-11,231′ FA Cup11—–79′ EFL Cup——– Total1914—-11,310′ Source: Transfermarkt. The Butcher is currently with the Argentina team preparing to defend their title at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is expected to be a starter under Lionel Scaloni. However, it now appears that Martinez may have to operate in an unconventional role for La Albiceleste’s opening game of this year’s mega event. Martinez in contention for unorthodox role According to Diario Hoy, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni and coach Luis Martin are deeply concerned about Nicolas Tagliafico’s recent injury. While La Albiceleste have Facundo Medina in their squad, Martinez has emerged as an unconventional option to cover at left-back. The report states: “Although the team’s line-up will start to take shape during this Sunday’s training session, which will be held behind closed doors, the fact is that Facundo Medina and Lisandro Martínez are the leading candidates for that role.” Should Medina get the go-ahead for the left-back position, the Butcher will start in his natural centre-back position. The report continues: “At the moment, Medina is the frontrunner, as he is more accustomed to playing in that position and already did so in the friendly against Iceland.” “If the manager opts for him, the Manchester United defender would start alongside Nicolás Otamendi, whilst Cuti Romero might not make his return until the match against Austria, so as not to overwork him following his injury lay-off.” “The other possibility is that Cuti and Otamendi form a centre-back partnership, with Licha moving out to the wing – a position he has occasionally filled and even played in during some World Cup qualifiers.” Argentina also have Nicolás González and Valentín Barco in the squad, and both could cover at left-back. However, the report states that neither is being considered for the position, with one of Medina or Martinez likely to be selected for the job. Has Martinez played at left-back for United? Martinez famously filled in at left-back for United in the 2024/25 campaign during the final weeks of Erik ten Hag’s reign. The Argentine started in the position in the 2-1 win over Brentford in the Premier League and the 1-1 draw against Fenerbahce in the Europa League. When the Dutch manager lost his job and Ruud van Nistelrooy was briefly in charge on interim basis, Martinez started at left-back against Leicester City in the EFL CUP, helping the Red Devils secure a 5-2 win. While the Butcher can fill in at full-back, there is no denying that he is at his scintillating best when operating as a centre-back. However, having been an unused substitute in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, Martinez will be desperate to feature for his nation this time, regardless of his position. Meanwhile, United are already in the market for a new left-back this summer, so they are likely to keep a close watch on the developments. The Butcher’s ability to slot in at full-back could end up having a bearing on the Red Devils’ transfer plans. Final Thoughts Martinez has suffered with injuries in recent times but remains indispensable for United when fit. Fans will hope that the Argentine can have a memorable tournament and come back unscathed. Feature image Molly Darlington 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 make final decision on giving Marcus Rashford a fresh start under Michael Carrick report
Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford’s future is rapidly becoming a headache for INEOS. The Englishman spent last season on loan at Barcelona after being deemed surplus to requirements by former head coach Ruben Amorim. Once considered one of the brightest young talents to emerge from Carrington, Rashford hit the ground running at Camp Nou. He soon became a first-team regular under Hansi Flick, helping the Catalans win the LaLiga title as well as the Supercopa de Espana. He finished the campaign with 14 goals and 14 assists, but that has not been enough to convince the Catalans. Barcelona have a €30 million purchase option in Rashford’s deal, but they are not planning to exercise that clause, especially after investing a fortune in Anthony Gordon. Marcus Rashford Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played LaLiga3218893-1,762′ UEFA Champions League11554–579′ Copa del Rey4311–249′ Supercopa20—-32′ Total492614143-2,622′ Source: Transfermarkt. The situation has added to the uncertainty regarding the player’s future. A recent report states that Michael Carrick, who initially took over from Amorim in January and has been confirmed as the next permanent manager, is willing to include Rashford in his squad. An update on the situation has now emerged. United take final decision on Rashford According to the Manchester Evening News, Barcelona have not officially informed United that they will not take up the purchase option in Rashford’s deal, which is available until Monday, 15 June. As such, the Red Devils are waiting until Tuesday before changing their approach. The report also adds that United have decided not to reintegrate the Englishman into Carrick’s squad. It states: “As of Tuesday, United will need to be more proactive in finding a buyer for Rashford, having made the decision that the academy graduate won’t be reintegrated into Michael Carrick’s squad, despite having played alongside the club’s former midfielder and been coached by him previously.” The English giants are desperate to remove Rashford’s £325,000-a-week wages from their books, especially since there is no guarantee that he would start ahead of Matheus Cunha and Patrick Dorgu. The report states that the club hierarchy are standing by the decision taken by Amorim, adding: “The decision to axe Rashford from the first-team squad after a series of disciplinary indiscretions was taken by Ruben Amorim, but backed by director of football Jason Wilcox, and that stance remains in place.” United will be hoping Rashford has a good World Cup Rashford is currently with the England squad at the World Cup, and a good showing at the mega event could prompt other suitors to take advantage of his situation. Bayern Munich have been mentioned as an option, although recent reports suggest that they have not initiated any move for the player yet. However, the Englishman’s versatility could prove tempting for the Bavarians, who have decided against pursuing a permanent stay for Nicolas Jackson. Rashford is adept at operating through the middle and could provide cover for Harry Kane. Meanwhile, there’s also interest in the Englishman from Chelsea, while MEN insist that Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and Arsenal are also keeping a close watch on his situation. As such, things could change between now and the end of the season. Final Thoughts United are working to add the right characters to their squad as they look to return to their heyday, and the Rashford situation is proving to be a distraction. As such, the sooner it is resolved, the better it will be for all parties involved. Featured image Mike Hewitt 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 in Numbers: Feeling good
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Whelan ‘profoundly honoured’ to receive MBE
Sponsor Image – white adidasSponsor Image – white Snapdragon NewsMUTVTicketsUnited StoreTeamsClubOne week to go!Be ready for PL ticketsBuy your 2026/27 MembershipBuy your 26/27 MembershipBuy your 26/27 MembershipPre-sale and 10% discountAC Milan ticketsClick hereClick hereThe 2026/27 home shirtYour look, your wayBuy now at United StoreBuy now at United StoreRelated ContentYou might also like Lou Macari receives MBENews3 days agoLou Macari receives MBELou Macari receives MBENews3 days agoLou Macari receives MBESir David Beckham added to Hollywood Walk of FameNews2 days agoSir David Beckham added to Hollywood Walk of FameSir David Beckham added to Hollywood Walk of FameNews2 days agoSir David Beckham added to Hollywood Walk of FameUnited to face Milan in WroclawNews6 days agoUnited to face Milan in WroclawUnited to face Milan in WroclawNews6 days agoUnited to face Milan in Wroclaw;
