Manchester United u18s hosted Peterborough United in the third round of the FA Youth Cup on Tuesday night. The illustrious cup competition gave the young Red Devils the opportunity to play at Old Trafford, with an announced attendance of 1,378 on the night. Peterborough were always going to be a tough test, having shown strength in cup competitions so far this season. They topped their group in the Premier League Cup with wins against category one academies Stoke City and Norwich City. First half The visitors looked to play out from the back from the start and almost played their way into trouble. Just three minutes into the match, Bendito Mantato stole the ball inside the Peterborough area before squaring to Louie Bradbury, but the United number nine scuffed his effort wide. United controlled possession during the opening stages but did not threaten the Peterborough goal much before taking the lead in the 22nd minute. An excellent turn by Jariyah Shah at the edge of the box created space to pass inside to Junior Brown, who cleverly laid it off with his first touch to JJ Gabriel, who side-footed into the bottom right corner from 18 yards. United almost doubled their lead on the half-hour mark, but some last-ditch defending blocked four shots in a row and kept it just 1-0 at the break. Second half Early in the second half, Gabriel fed the ball to Mantato on the right, who chopped inside his defender in a manner reminiscent of a young Cristiano Ronaldo. Unfortunately, the quality of the finish did not match, as it soared over the crossbar. An incredible double save from the Peterborough keeper denied United their second of the match, initially stopping Mantato’s volley before getting his hand to Jariyah Shah’s rebound attempt. United’s Cameron Byrne-Hughes matched the effort with two saves in quick succession shortly afterwards. Byrne-Hughes did not have to make many saves on the night but was exceptional with his sweeping, not allowing Peterborough to take advantage of their pacey forwards. Gabriel was set free late in the match by a Noah Ajayi flick but was denied as he approached the box by another great last-ditch tackle from Peterborough. The final whistle came with the score still 1-0, putting United through to the next round, where they will play the winner of Cambridge United and Derby County at home. Match facts United: Byrne-Hughes, Helafu (McEvoy 78), Mills, Armer, Kukonki, Thwaites, Shah (Overy 72), Mantato, Gabriel (McCormack 89), Brown (Lusale 59), Bradbury (Ajayi 70) Unused subs: Heath, Plunkett Goals: JJ Gabriel 22 Featured image of Jim Thwaites by James Fearn 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 Colm Murphy A football obsessed Canadian who moved to England to enjoy the beautiful game. Colm has been keen follower of Manchester United’s famed academy since seeing a fresh faced Adnan Januzaj for the club’s u18s and has been writing about football with a focus on youth development for over 10 years. You can follow him X: RedYouthUnited.
Amorim wants £26m La Liga gem to forge dream United partnership with Yoro – report
As Ruben Amorim looks to take Manchester United back to the top, he must be backed with players he believes are tailor-made for his system. Indeed, last January and again in the summer, INEOS moved to secure signings they felt suited the Portuguese tactician’s system. Yet, despite those additions, United remain short of where they ought to be; there is still a sizeable gap between their current level and the standards they aspire to reach. Crucially, that gap can be narrowed if United deliver more precise and high-quality signings for Amorim. Perfect Yoro partner identified According to Teamtalk, one such signing is a £26 million move for Elche’s David Affengruber. The outlet reports: “Ruben Amorim views the 6ft 2in defender as the ideal long-term partner for Leny Yoro. United scouts have watched Affengruber on multiple occasions this season and submitted glowing reports.” Affengruber in demand Nevertheless, while the Red Devils push to secure Amorim’s preferred option, they have been warned to brace for a fierce battle. As Teamtalk adds further: “United face stiff competition to engineer a deal. Juventus, rebuilding after serious injuries, see him as a perfect fit for their back three. At the same time, Atletico Madrid are long-term admirers and believe he would thrive under Diego Simeone’s intense style. Sevilla have also registered formal interest.” Affengruber has even been described as the next Matthijs de Ligt, thanks to his composure, aerial dominance, and ability to step confidently into midfield. It is little surprise, therefore, that he has attracted such widespread interest. Rising influence in La Liga The Austrian defender has featured in all but one of Elche’s 15 league fixtures this season, underlining his consistency. He has played a pivotal role in helping the club climb to ninth in the table, proving himself a commanding presence in Spain’s top flight. David Affengruber (24yo, 🇦🇹) is showing what he’s showed all season vs RM: a composed, reliable CB whose line breaking passes help Elche bypass opp. press & transition quickly, OOP he reads the game V.👍, knowing when to step out/delay/commit to a tackle. Incredible performance. — Emmanuel Lavogez (@LaLigaLavo) November 23, 2025 Although a winter move may prove complicated, Affengruber, whose contract at Elche runs until 2027, remains firmly on the transfer radar. United motivated to win the race As rival clubs circle, United fans will hope INEOS can prevail in the race, particularly given their motivation to strengthen their backline. Affengruber would not only be the perfect partner for Leny Yoro but also a ready-made replacement for Harry Maguire. With Maguire likely to depart as a free agent next summer, the 24-year-old La Liga defensive gem could be his perfect heir. Featured image Ion Alcoba Beitia 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 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.
Euro giants ready to offload key star in bold bid to land £45m‑rated United gem – report
Ahead of the January transfer window, all eyes will be on Kobbie Mainoo, with many keen to see whether he stays or departs. Of all his talents, and despite the hype surrounding him, Mainoo has yet to cement a place in Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim’s project. While he earns the occasional cameo appearance, the 20-year-old appears to have been relegated to the bench. Searching for game time For a player with ambitions of developing his craft, the current situation hardly aids his growth. Eager to play more and hoping to impress enough to be considered for England’s squad at next summer’s FIFA World Cup, Mainoo is now being linked with a winter exit. As the young midfielder weighs up his options, United legends Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand have urged him to walk away from Old Trafford in pursuit of regular football. Mainoo a wanted man Should he leave United, reports suggest at least 12 clubs are ready to pounce. Among them, two stand out: Italian champions Napoli and Bundesliga heavyweights Bayern Munich. Bayern are said to be in talks with Mainoo’s representatives over a permanent January move. Yet Napoli, long-time admirers of the midfielder, are also pressing hard to secure his signature. Napoli’s sacrifice to land Mainoo Journalist Luca Marchetti, quoted by Area Napoli, revealed the lengths to which the Partenopei are willing to go to bring Mainoo to Campania. “Are steps needed now to speed things up?” Marchetti asked. “We can already talk about progress with Mainoo, because the player would have no problem accepting. But to conclude a deal, Manchester United must agree terms, and space must be created—both financially and technically—to bring the boy in as soon as possible. For this reason, rumours suggest Lorenzo Lucca could depart in January to make room for new arrivals.” The fact that Antonio Conte is prepared to sacrifice his summer signing Lucca underlines just how determined Napoli are to land the Englishman. Whether this bold move allows them to beat Bayern to the signing of Mainoo remains to be seen. Looking ahead Either way, the hope is that the United midfielder enjoys a stronger second half of the campaign. Given his talent, he deserves the chance to prove his quality and stake a claim for a place in England’s squad, another opportunity to play among the very best after his Euro 24 exploits. 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 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.
“The only thing I would regret…”: United ace living the dream, says agent
Manchester United took a decisive step towards addressing their goalscoring troubles this summer by signing Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. The Red Devils mustered just 44 goals in 38 Premier League games last season, with neither Rasmus Hojlund nor Joshua Zirkzee managing to impress. Ruben Amorim was determined to add a new focal point to his attack and Sesko was identified as the ideal candidate for the job. The Slovenian had gone from strength to strength in recent seasons for the Bundesliga club, and had registered 21 goals in 45 appearances last campaign. The Premier League giants secured his signature for a reported €76.5 million fee, with a further €8.5 million in add-ons. Unfortunately, Sesko has endured a slow start to life at the Theatre of Dreams. Sesko’s Old Trafford woes Amorim was cautious in his initial approach with the Slovenian, utilising him from the bench to help the player acclimatise to the rigours of the Premier League. Sesko did eventually become a first-team regular, and has since registered two goals and one assist in 12 outings. Benjamin Sesko Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League11211-618′ EFL Cup1—-90′ Total 25/2612211-708′ Source: Transfermarkt. The 22 year old is currently sidelined with a knee injury, but a recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that he is close to returning to full fitness. That will be a huge boost for United, who are set to lose both Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo to AFCON duty in the coming days. While the Slovenian’s time at the Theatre of Dreams has not panned out as expected so far, the player has no regrets about the move, according to his agent Elvis Bašanović. Sesko living a dream Speaking to Slovenian news outlet Ekipa, Bašanović revealed that the move to United was a dream come true for Sesko. “Right now, when he was injured, he had a little more time, so I visited him in Manchester and I honestly asked him: how do you see your decision about Manchester United now, when you also have a little more time to think about it,” said Bašanović. “He said: ‘Elvis, the only thing I would regret and I would regret it for the rest of my life, would be not deciding for Manchester United’.” The agent went on to add that Sesko’s move will inspire a whole generation of footballers in the country, which has population of just over two million. He said: “It was the best possible decision, because Beni made his dream come true.” “What you dream about as a child, and he has now shown other children that there is a path, that it is possible to get from small Radeče to Manchester United. This is a great thing he is doing for all of Slovenia and future generations.” Final Thoughts A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person states that United always expected Sesko to take his time to come to terms with English football. The Slovenian is considered a generational talent who could become the long-term solution to the Red Devils’ goalscoring conundrum. As such, the focus now will be on getting the player back to full fitness and providing him with a set-up that works to his strengths. The club is reportedly pleased with Sesko’s dedication and efforts in training, and there is a belief that it is only a matter of time before he comes into his own. Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social 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.
Official: Multiple-game absence confirmed for United star after national team announcement
Manchester United forward Amad has officially been called up by the Ivory Coast for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations tournament. Earlier on Tuesday, Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé unveiled his squad, naming Amad as one of his options in the attacking department. 🚨 OFFICIEL – Liste des Éléphants 🇨🇮🐘🔥 Le sélectionneur dévoile les joueurs retenus pour la CAN 2025 !#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 pic.twitter.com/sAaarcjMyu — Côte d’Ivoire 🇨🇮🐘 (@FIFCI_tweet) December 9, 2025 The reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions begin the defence of their title with a Group F clash against Mozambique in Marrakech on December 24. The Ivorians are also poised to face Cameroon and Gabon in their group. Amad’s expected call-up is the culmination of his vital performances and growing stature at United. Under Ruben Amorim, he has become a key player, forming part of the select group the Portuguese coach appears to fully trust. The 23-year-old has made 14 Premier League appearances for United this term, contributing one goal and three assists in that period. His sole goal was the equaliser in last month’s 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. While he didn’t get on the score sheet, Amad was crucial on Monday evening as United put Wolverhampton Wanderers to the sword in a 4-1 triumph at the Molineux. Amorim told reporters that he is hoping to keep Amad, Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon) and Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco) for as long as possible before they eventually depart for AFCON. The United head coach remarked [as quoted by The Sun], “The club is talking with the national teams. Let’s wait for the middle of the week.” “I don’t know for sure, but we are doing our job and the national teams are talking with us and that is a good sign.” United fans will certainly be hoping that the club and respective associations can reach an agreement that suits all concerned parties. The Red Devils are next in action on Monday, December 15, when they welcome Bournemouth to Old Trafford. Featured image Alex Pantling via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
United trio join unstoppable Fernandes in receiving big honour after 4-1 victory over Wolves
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been joined by two of his teammates in a team of the week selection, following the club’s 4-1 triumph over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday. Fernandes dazzles against Wolves Fernandes ran the show as United cruised past Wolves to catapult themselves into sixth place in the Premier League table. United took the lead in the first half through Fernandes, who made the very best out of an underwhelming pass from Matheus Cunha. However, the game was level at half-time after a response from the hosts. The Red Devils came out firing after the break and retook the advantage thanks to Bryan Mbeumo, who tapped in a Diogo Dalot cross into the back of the net after Sam Johnstone desperately came rushing out of his line. Mason Mount made it 3-1 for United shortly after the hour mark with a close-range volley after Fernandes brilliantly found him inside the box. Fernandes’ penalty kick late on completed the rout and sealed all three points at the Molineux. A number of United players performed well but it was Fernandes who stood out head and shoulders above the rest. Beyond his goals and assist, he completely dominated the midfield, and Wolves simply had no answer for some of the sensational things he pulled off. A true captain’s performance from Bruno Fernandes against Wolves 🤌 pic.twitter.com/Xk3BPO8g2W — Premier League (@premierleague) December 9, 2025 His exploits have earned him WhoScored’s Premier League Player of the Week. He has also been named in the Team of the Week, alongside Dalot, Amad and Matheus Cunha. 🌟 Premier League Player of the Week – Bruno Fernandes. #MUFC | @ManUtd pic.twitter.com/7bq5bHSNJW — WhoScored (@WhoScored) December 9, 2025 United trio join Fernandes Fernandes is the highest-rated player in the Team of the Week with a score of 9.53. He features in a midfield also consisting of Mateus Fernandes (West Ham) and Rayan Cherki (Manchester City). WhoScored note that since joining United from Sporting CP, Fernandes is the highest-rated Premier League player (7.33) to play a minimum of 150 games. It’s even more impressive that he continues to deliver in a largely unfamiliar deeper midfield role. Amad and Dalot, with ratings of 7.87 and 7.95 respectively, form the full-back pairing of a back-four unit that also has Ruben Dias (Manchester City) and Michael Keane (Everton). Cunha boasts an 8.48 rating. Premier League Team of the Week. 🔥 Read more on the stats behind each player’s inclusion in this week’s best XI: https://t.co/Jg4dAV1mZg#MUFC #LFC #MCFC #NUFC #EFC #CFC #WHUFC https://t.co/KZbyrYFpyz pic.twitter.com/620wQuj2eK — WhoScored (@WhoScored) December 9, 2025 United are next in action on Monday, December 15, when they welcome Bournemouth to Old Trafford. 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 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!
“Players are responding”: Ex-United coach hails Amorim as he credits his “crocodile skin” for team’s drastic turnaround
Former Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy has praised Ruben Amorim’s resilience, crediting it for the club’s improved fortunes over the past two months. United enjoying uptick in form Amorim endured a troubled spell upon his arrival as Erik ten Hag’s replacement in November last year. He led United to a woeful 15th-place finish in the Premier League while also losing the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur. Amorim endured a patchy start to the 2025/26 campaign and at one point, it appeared like he was at genuine risk of losing his job. However, co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe came out and publicly expressed his support. Ratcliffe also declared that Amorim would be handed at least three years to try and turn things around at Old Trafford. United have since lost only once in their last nine Premier League games, a marked improvement in results. Last night’s 4-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers catapulted the Red Devils to sixth place in the Premier League table and one point adrift of the final guaranteed Champions League spot. McCarthy spoke to Sporty TV and lauded Amorim’s “crocodile skin” for United’s turnaround. McCarthy praises Amorim McCarthy, who served under Erik ten Hag before his exit in June 2024, told the news outlet [as quoted by A Bola], “You know, I felt very sorry for him, because he arrived at United at a very difficult time… new ownership, new change of guard.” “The team wasn’t playing at the level it should have been, but he arrived with a clear plan. This was what he wanted to achieve, and he remained true to his philosophy.” “I mean, everyone criticised him, and it’s not easy to be in that position when you’re being criticised, and the whole world is watching and judging.” The Kenya national team boss continued, “They’ll never get it right; the team isn’t good, but he was probably one of the only people who believed in himself so much. He turned things around, you know, and he has a strong character. He must have crocodile skin to be strong and stick to his philosophy.” “He has also made the players believe that what he is doing is right because the players are responding, and they are winning games. He beat Liverpool, he beat Chelsea, I’m happy with that. It’s good progress. So, I’m looking forward to seeing Ruben Amorim’s revolution in the near future.” United return to action on Monday, December 15, when they host Bournemouth. Kick-off is at 8pm. Featured image Warren Little 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 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 make shock offer to sign 39-yo mentality monster on free transfer, he has won it all – report
Manchester United’s attack brought their A-game against Wolves, but their defence endured yet another frustrating outing. Jean-Ricner Bellegarde took advantage of some calamitous defending from the visitors to clinch Wolves’ first Premier League goal since late October. Ruben Amorim’s back-three system has conceded 22 goals in 15 league games this term and has kept just one clean sheet all season, underlining the need of a leader to take charge at the back. Manchester United make offer to Sergio Ramos According to Cadena SER, as relayed by Fichajes, United have “made an offer to sign” Sergio Ramos in January. Considered one of Real Madrid’s most successful captains, Ramos has left Mexican side Monterrey. The 39-year-old Spaniard enjoyed a solid campaign in Liga MX, and Monterrey wanted to renew his contract. The legendary defender had no desire to listen to their offers, as he is aiming to return to Europe. Sergio Ramos Stats ClubAppearancesGoalsYellow CardsTrophies Real Madrid67110121822 Sevilla8710210 Paris Saint-Germain58663 Monterrey327100 Spain18023243 It is claimed Ramos is considering his options, and the possibility of moving to the Premier League is on the table. Negotiations between Ramos and United are thought to be at an early stage and “nothing is finalised”. Ramos a no-go for Man United The ex-PSG star’s wealth of experience and his leadership qualities make him an appealing option for most clubs. However, his ageing legs are likely to struggle to cope with the overwhelming demands of the Premier League. Further, Ineos want to reduce the age of United’s squad. They are reportedly in no hurry to offer new contracts to Harry Maguire and Casemiro. Both players will be free to speak to overseas clubs in January. Accordingly, the suggestion that United have already tabled a proposal to sign Ramos, who turns 40 in March, seems far-fetched. It is advised to take the claim with a huge pinch of salt. Featured image Manuel Velasquez 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!


