Anthony Gordon has opened up on his private chats with Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford after he sealed a permanent move to Barcelona. Rashford in jeopardy Rashford spent the 2025/26 season out on loan at Barcelona. He enjoyed a positive loan spell, contributing 14 goals and as many assists across all competitions. He helped Barcelona retain their La Liga crown. However, the Blaugrana are hesitating over whether to make his stay a permanent one. Hansi Flick’s side have the option of keeping him for £26m but they want to pay half of this or ideally, secure another loan deal. United have made it clear that there is no room for renegotiation and are even willing to welcome Rashford back and sell him elsewhere. Rashford’s desire to remain in Catalonia was put in further jeopardy by the club’s decision to snap up Gordon for £70m last month. There have been suggestions that this spells trouble for Rashford, whose hopes are now hanging by a thread. However, according to Gordon, there is nothing but love between him and Rashford, who has been a big help to him since the switch to the Camp Nou. The two are currently together at the England camp, where they are also competing for the starting left-wing spot at this summer’s World Cup. Gordon’s revelation Gordon told talkSPORT after England’s 1-0 win over New Zealand, “He was just telling me how good the lads are there, the team spirit that they have, which I heard already from the people in Barca.” “So I’m really looking forward to joining up with them. He was also telling me about the city, places to live.” “He’s a lovely guy, very caring. So he was just giving me a bit of information.” Gordon, who is also believed to have been a United target, said of the transfer to Barcelona, “It’s been a bit of a whirlwind of two weeks, but the best two weeks I’ve ever had for me and my family.” “It’s been really good because I’ve told them from a very young age, I said in my interview, that I would get to this point. But they were saying to me, congrats and stuff and this and that.” “I’m not satisfied at all to just play for Barcelona. I want to win everything. This is where my career begins in my mind. So I’m at the stage I always said I was going to be. Now I need to get to the next level again.” England are next in action on Wednesday when they face Costa Rica in another friendly. Featured image Aziz Karimov 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!
Anthony Gordon reveals what Rashford told him after United reject was left in limbo by Barca’s 70m deal
United plotting surprise move to bring back 6’4″ star who left club in 2018 – report
Michael Carrick has a significant war chest at his disposal to strengthen the Manchester United squad after his side’s qualification for the Champions League. Much has been written about INEOS’s desire to transform United’s midfield with at least two new signings, including a marquee name. However, the club’s recruitment team are also keen not to miss out on potential market opportunities to strengthen different areas of the squad. Manchester United eyeing Sam Johnstone According to a report from journalist Alan Nixon, Manchester United are looking at a deal to sign goalkeeper Sam Johnstone from Wolverhampton Wanderers. Wolves are set for a rebuild of their own following relegation to the Championship. Johnstone, 33, is likely to be one of the many departures at Molineux, having made just 12 league appearances last season. He joined the Midlands club from Crystal Palace in a £10 million switch in 2024. United are reportedly showing interest in bringing back Johnstone to Old Trafford. The 6’4″ shot-stopper graduated from United’s academy before permanently leaving the club in 2018. It remains unclear how much Wolves would demand for Johnstone. However, given he has just two years left on his contract, the Red Devils should be able to land him for a reasonable fee. Manchester United to tweak goalkeeping department Senne Lammens remains United’s undisputed number one. Meanwhile, the Mancunians have also handed veteran Tom Heaton a one-year extension to remain as the club’s third-choice goalkeeper. As such, Johnstone is certainly being eyed as the back-up to Lammens. However, currently that role is occupied by Altay Bayindir. Bayindir is attracting serious interest from clubs in Turkey. Once his exit is finalised, United may be able to make a move for Johnstone. Andre Onana has also returned to United upon the expiration of his loan at Trabzonspor. However, the Cameroonian has no future at Carrington, with everyone at the club keen to offload him. 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!
Former United mastermind in race for high-profile Championship role – report
Manchester United minority owners INEOS have implemented several changes to the club’s football system since taking over in February 2024. The Red Devils’ recruitment policy in the past decade has frequently come under scrutiny, with multiple questionable decisions negatively impacting their finances. INEOS identified that the club’s transfer activity needed a revamp and one of their first decisions was to poach Newcastle United sporting director Dan Ashworth. A standoff followed, with the Magpies finally agreeing a compensation fee for the departure of the former Norwich City academy graduate, who was placed on gardening leave. Ashworth officially joined United in 1 July 2024, taking charge as the club’s new sporting director. Under his leadership, the Red Devils enjoyed a productive summer transfer window, signing Matthijs de Ligt, Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui, Joshua Zirkzee and Manuel Ugarte. Ashworth also played a role in the appointment of former head coach Ruben Amorim in November as Erik ten Hag’s replacement. However, the Englishman was surprisingly relieved of his duties by mutual consent before the end of the year. Ashworth subsequently took up a role as FA’s chief football officer, but now appears that he is all set for a return to club football. Birmingham City want Ashworth According to Football Insider, Ashworth is in the running to become Birmingham City’s director of football. The report states: “Dan Ashworth is a contender to be the next Birmingham City director of football, sources have told Football Insider.” “The 55-year-old former Newcastle and Brighton recruitment chief is competing for the high profile Championship post with ex-Sunderland sporting director Kristjaan Speakman and the Blues’ current academy director Mike Rigg.” Appointing Ashworth was a questionable decision by INEOS, but United continued to operate effectively following his departure. United have coped well since Ashworth’s departure Ashworth’s abrupt departure from Old Trafford surprised many, especially since United had gone to great lengths to secure his signature. It has since been revealed that the decision cost the club approximately £4.1 million. Jason Wilcox initially stepped in as Ashworth’s replacement, before being promoted to the position of Director of Football for the English giants. United signed Ayden Heaven and Patrick Dorgu in January last year, and invested over £200 million in the attack and goalkeeping positions last summer. Their transfer activity has been successful, with Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Senne Lammens all playing key roles in the third-place finish in the Premier League last season. The Red Devils also underwent another managerial change as Michael Carrick replaced Amorim in January and has since been appointed as permanent manager. Premier League Top Five: 2025/26 Season PosTeamGames PlayedGames WonGames DrawnGames LostGoals ScoredGoals ConcededGoal DifferencePoints 1Arsenal38267571274485 2Manchester City38239677354278 3Manchester United382011769501971 4Aston Villa38198115649765 5Liverpool381791263531060 Source: Premier League website. Final Thoughts United have been on the rise in recent months under Carrick and there is genuine optimism among fans about the upcoming campaign. Should INEOS manage to maintain their impressive recent record in the transfer market this year, it will not be long before the Red Devils reestablish their position among Europe’s elite. 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.
1 goal, 100% long passes, 4 key passes: United sensation tears it up again on international scene as World Cup beckons
Manchester United had numerous players involved in international friendlies on Saturday. Bruno Fernandes Bruno Fernandes has had a wonderful season for his club, breaking the Premier League record with 21 assists. The United catalyst scored a stunning long-distance strike as Portugal beat Chile 2-1. He also had four key passes and created one big chance in the game for his side. The Portuguese star also completed 100% of his long ball attempts. Diogo Dalot Diogo Dalot came on for the second half of Portugal’s win. He completed one key pass and 86% of his attempts found their target. Dalot also had a glorious chance to score but ballooned his effort over the bar from close range. Tyler Fletcher Tyler Fletcher made his second appearance for Scotland in a 4-0 win over Bolivia. He came on as a second-half substitute for the final 10 minutes. Fletcher kept it tidy, completing 100% of his pass attempts. Marcus Rashford The United man had five key passes in England’s 1-0 win over New Zealand. He completed 82% of his passes and had two shots on goal without hitting the target. Rashford was successful in one dribble attempt and won two of his three ground duels in his 45 minutes of action. Kobbie Mainoo Kobbie Mainoo played 45 minutes for England as well, making one key pass. He was tidy on the ball, keeping possession 89% of the time. He also completed 100% of his dribbles and 100% of his tackles in a tidy showing. Matheus Cunha Matheus Cunha came on as a second-half substitute in a 2-1 win over Egypt. He had one shot that was blocked and completed 78% of his passes. Cunha did win three duels too. Former United star Casemiro started the game for the Brazilians. He made one key pass and had one shot on goal. Lisandro Martinez Lisandro Martinez played 63 minutes of Argentina’s 2-0 win over Honduras. He won two of his three aerial battles and completed 100% of his passes. Martinez also had a shot on goal but it did not hit the target. Hinata Miyazawa Hinata Miyazawa played 75 minutes of Japan Women’s 5-0 win over South Africa. She made one key pass and had one shot on target. The Japanese midfielder also won 100% of her aerial duels. Bruno Fernandes’ stats vs Chile StatValue Goals1 Assists0 Big chances created1 Key passes4 Crosses (accurate)7 (1) Accurate passes48/59 (81%) Passes in opposition half (acc.)36/41 (88%) Passes in own half (acc.)12/18 (67%) Long balls (accurate)6/6 (100%) Total shots2 Shots on target1 Shots blocked1 Touches81 Dribbles (successful)1 (0) Was fouled2 Possession lost20 Total carrying distance92.3 m Carries13 Total progression50.5 m Def. contributions5 Tackles (won)1 (0) Interceptions1 Clearances3 Blocked shots0 Recoveries4 Ground duels (won)8 (3) Fouls1 Dribbled past3 Errors leading to shot1 Featured image by Molly Darlington/Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social 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.
Award-winning United ace “definitely” wants to leave this summer, INEOS have a tough call on their hands – report
Manchester United will have to take a call on the futures of several academy graduates who have returned from loan spells. While the likes of Dan Gore and Jacob Devaney are itching to impress Michael Carrick and stake a claim for first-team inclusion, there are others for whom this might be the end of the road. Toby Collyer, who endured two injury-hit loan spells in the Championship, might end up departing, many feel that Radek Vitek could follow the same path. The 22-year-old enjoyed a stunning loan spell with Bristol City, playing 41 times and keeping 12 clean sheets. Brilliant loan spell for Radek Vitek So impressed were the fans and his teammates that the goalkeeper was named their Player of the Year, Young Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year. It was no surprise to learn that the Robins are considering a permanent move for the United shot-stopper. Back at his parent club, there is a gap opening up for the Czechia Under-21 international, with Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir both expected to depart. However, as per the BBC‘s Simon Stone, the Carrington graduate does not want to play second fiddle to Senne Lammens at this stage of his career. Radek Vitek wants to play, not warm the bench While the 6ft 5in monster would love to make it at Old Trafford, he is desperate to play after the season he just had. And it is understandable. However, INEOS are currently not looking at a permanent sale, and are more inclined towards another loan. “I would be really surprised if he spends next season as deputy to Lammens. I don’t think that’s what he wants to do. “[…] Is it more likely he’s going to go on loan? That’s how it’s been mentioned to me. I suppose there’s a possibility he could be sold. In Vitek’s mind, he definitely wants to play.” Selling him would mean pure profit for the 20-time English league champions, but it makes a lot more sense to loan him out, this time to a Premier League side, and see if he can cut it at the top level. 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
“Extraordinary player” has already undergone “unofficial” medical to join United – Fabrizio Romano
Ederson is all set to become Manchester United’s first signing of the Michael Carrick era. Earlier today, Fabrizio Romano claimed that United and Atalanta have “completed all documents” to seal a deal worth €45 million for Ederson. The Italian journalist has now shed more light on the big-money signing as well as United’s plans upon the completion of this deal. Ederson to become Manchester United player On his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano revealed that a first unofficial Manchester United medical for Ederson has already taken place with the authorisation of Atalanta. It is understood that Ederson will fly to England after his holidays and put pen to paper on his United contract. Furthermore, despite interest from elsewhere, the 26-year-old reportedly had his heart set on a move to Old Trafford “since months ago”. Earlier this year, Atletico Madrid unsuccessfully tried to sign the combative midfielder. Ederson Serie A stats: 2025/26 Season Appearances30 Minutes per game75 Touches57.6 Key passes0.8 Accurate passes39.7 Interceptions 0.9 Tackles 2.0 Source: Sofascore Described as a “dynamic blade runner” by The Athletic, the Brazilian is expected to add much-needed steel and athleticism to United’s midfield following the departure of his fellow countryman, Casemiro. Ederson’s former manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, once insisted the player is destined for the top, stating: “In terms of physicality, regains and the timing of his runs, Ederson is definitely an extraordinary player, one cut out for teams at the very highest level.” Manchester United working on more signings Romano asked his viewers to “stay tuned” because “in the next days” he will drop more updates concerning United’s midfield overhaul. He added that the Premier League giants are already “working on it” behind the scenes after Ederson, as Michael Carrick will get at least one more midfielder ahead of next campaign. At the moment, it seems Mateus Fernandes is going to be that player. The West Ham United gem is expected to leave the Hammers following their relegation to the Championship. A separate report claims talks are ongoing for Fernandes and “representatives remain confident of a deal.” Featured image by Simone Arveda/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!
Ex-United star stoops to new all-time low after latest career setback – Fabrizio Romano
Former Manchester United forward Anthony Martial has suffered a fresh setback in his career, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed. United spell Martial departed United in May 2024, having arrived at the club in 2015 from AS Monaco. At the time, he was regarded as one of the best youngsters in the world and it was a real coup for United to land him. The Frenchman enjoyed a fairytale start to life at United, scoring a memorable solo goal against bitter rivals Liverpool. His first medal followed that season as United won the FA Cup under manager Louis van Gaal. The striker also won the Carabao Cup twice and was part of the Jose Mourinho squad that completed the club’s all-time collection of trophies by claiming the Europa League in 2017. Martial’s spell at Old Trafford included some good times, but overall, it’s considered a disappointment. He never delivered his obvious talent on a regular basis, partly because of his own limitations and partly because of persistent injuries. His best individual campaign at United came in 2019/20, when he finished as the club’s highest goalscorer with 23 goals. He made 317 appearances for the 20-time English champions, scoring 90 goals in that period. His final appearance was on 9 December 2023, against Bournemouth in the Premier League. Setback After leaving United, Martial joined Greek Super League side AEK Athens. He enjoyed a promising start and it finally seemed like a fresh start for him after his difficulties in England. However, his performances and fortunes soon declined and his time there ended in September 2025. He then moved to Liga MX club Monterrey (Rayados), signing a two-year deal through 2027. Now, Romano has confirmed that Martial has departed Rayados by mutual consent. The Italian journalist wrote on X, “EXCL: Anthony Martial and Rayados have agreed on contract termination on a mutual agreement.” “The French striker leaves Mexican side as a free agent.” 🚨🇫🇷 EXCL: Anthony Martial and Rayados have agreed on contract termination on a mutual agreement. The French striker leaves Mexican side as a free agent. 🇲🇽 pic.twitter.com/FAPFFZRd4H — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 6, 2026 The 30-year-old made just 20 appearances in all competitions for Rayados, contributing one goal and three assists along the way. It was a disappointing 2026 Clausura campaign for Rayados as they finished in 13th place and failed to make the playoffs. Martial will now have to look for another new club as he moves into the next phase of his career. 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!
Italian expert lifts lid on why United should snub tempting move for Serie A star full of magic
It is the worst-kept secret that the Red Devils’ transfer priority this summer has been to revolutionise their midfield. That revolution has already begun, with an Ederson deal agreed and two more midfielders expected to follow. Yet while a huge chunk of Manchester United’s transfer budget is earmarked for midfield, there may still be room for other deals, and the left wing is another area of interest. Manchester United have no natural left-winger at the club, and there is growing recognition that this needs to change. Rafael Leao transfer opportunity Interestingly, reports relayed by The Peoples Person suggest Rafael Leao could be the opportunistic left-winger target the 20-time English champions turn to. Leao wants out of AC Milan, and with the Serie A outfit reportedly willing to let a player of his calibre leave for as little as £43 million, it is a deal that looks too good to ignore. The Portuguese whiz, whom Zlatan Ibrahimović praised for bringing “magic” to the pitch, has already hinted at a willingness to move to Old Trafford. However, INEOS are yet to act on his transfer, and while they may be weighing that decision, they have received a transfer warning. Leao has issues Italian expert Paolo De Paola, via Tuttomercatoweb, has explained why a player of Leao’s profile may not be what Manchester United need in their dressing room. “I believe there’s a group within Milan, led by Leao, that hasn’t helped the coach much,” said De Paola, reacting to Leao’s claim that head coach Massimiliano Allegri was playing him out of position. “Pulisic, Loftus-Cheek, Fofana, and Tomori, who also raised eyebrows in the last match. “Allegri’s excellent management of the players hasn’t been seen; he was betrayed in the very last match to qualify for the Champions League.” Those comments find an echo in Sky Sport presenter Fabio Caressa’s reaction to Leao’s remarks about life under Allegri: “I think when Leao said he gave Milan his all, the response would have been: ‘We haven’t noticed in the last three years,’” Caressa noted via TMW. INEOS have a tough decision to make about Leao As gifted as Leao undoubtedly is, and he may well just need a fresh start to rediscover his best form, there remain genuine question marks surrounding him. His ability is not in doubt. However, for many, it is his character that poses the bigger concern. Much of the opposition to signing him stems not from scepticism about his quality but from doubts about his character. 🚨 CHAOS ON THE PITCH! Ivan Román and Rafael Leão have both seen red after the confrontation. 🟥😳 pic.twitter.com/ypJmJhoGSh https://t.co/2S2RyNmLqF — No Context World Cup (@NoContextEPL) June 6, 2026 Whether Manchester United choose to overlook those concerns remains to be seen, but it is a tricky decision INEOS must now make. Featured images Marco Luzzani 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.
United willing to smash transfer record to sign world-class star, he prefers to join Red Devils over PL rivals – report
Manchester United are prepared to dig deep into their pockets to hand Michael Carrick a technically secure and physically imposing midfield. Atalanta’s midfield dynamo Ederson looks set to be the first of at least two arrivals. The €45m signing has not generated much fanfare, but he is highly rated by Jason Wilcox, who believes the robust Brazilian is well-suited to the Premier League. Furthermore, INEOS remain keen to bring in a marquee midfielder, and a report in Italy suggests they are willing to break their transfer record to get a deal over the line. Manchester United ready to meet Newcastle’s demands for Tonali According to Gazzetta dello Sport (via the Manchester Evening News), Newcastle United want €115 million (£100m) to part ways with Sandro Tonali this summer. Tonali has been pushing to depart St James’ Park since January. However, Newcastle are in no hurry to fulfil the Italy midfielder’s wish, especially after selling Anthony Gordon to Barcelona in a big-money deal. The Magpies now find themselves in a relatively good financial situation. As such, they have no intention of letting Tonali leave on the cheap, three years after signing him from AC Milan in a deal worth around £60m. However, the Italian publication claims Newcastle’s price tag does not scare Manchester United, Arsenal and Manchester City. It is understood the Premier League giants are willing to meet Newcastle’s demands. Paul Pogba remains United’s record signing after his £89m move from Juventus in 2026. A decade later, INEOS are allegedly prepared to pay more than that for another midfielder. Last month, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming United could “spend close to £300m” this summer in theory. As such, the Red Devils certainly have money to sign Tonali. Whether the box-to-box midfielder, known for his relentless work rate, is worth paying that much is a different debate. Sandro Tonali prefers Manchester United over City City are leading the race to sign Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest. However, Forest have turned down their opening bid. Recently, Fabrizio Romano claimed that City consider Tonali a strong alternative to Anderson in the event they fail to find an agreement with Forest. Sandro Tonali Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League35-24-2,545′ UEFA Champions League11112-955′ EFL Cup4-21-219′ FA Cup322–300′ Total53377-4,019′ However, it has been previously reported that United are Tonali’s preferred destination, as the 26-year-old believes he will get more time at Old Trafford and considers that crucial. Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social 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!
26-yo United ace has astonishing managerial trend that Michael Carrick will hope to break report
Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt began the 2025/26 campaign as an undisputed starter under former head coach Ruben Amorim. The Dutchman was a revelation at the back, operating either as the central centre-back or the right-sided centre-back, as required. De Ligt’s performances earned him United’s Player of the Month award for November, yet the 26 year old has not kicked a ball since the start of December. De Ligt was initially sidelined with a back injury and as things failed to improve, he had to undergo surgery to address the matter. In his absence, United oversaw significant changes in the backroom. Ruben Amorim departed after failing to inspire change despite investing over £200 million in the squad last summer. Michael Carrick arrived as the Portuguese’s temporary replacement, secured a third-place finish in the Premier League courtesy of a run of 12 wins in 17 games, and bagged the full-time job. De Ligt, meanwhile, is expected to return to full fitness in the early stages of next season, when he will continue a surprise managerial trend. De Ligt’s strange managerial record According to Flashscore, De Ligt has played under a new manager in every season of his career. In his 11 seasons as a professional, the Dutchman has played under 10 different managers, with only Erik ten Hag managing him twice, albeit at different clubs! The Dutchman rose through the ranks at Ajax and broke into the senior side in 2016 under Peter Bosz. A year later, the Dutch manager lost his job and Marcel Keizer took over the Eredivisie side. Keizer, however, did not last long either, with De Ligt playing under Ten Hag the following campaign, before leaving in the summer of 2019 to join Juventus. At Turin, the Dutch defender continued the bizarre trend, playing under Maurizio Sarri, Andrea Pirlo and Massimiliano Allegri. De Ligt joined Bayern Munich in 2022 and started his spell at the Allianz Arena under Julian Nagelsmann. The following year, the German was sacked and Thomas Tuchel took over, ensuring that De Ligt’s record remained intact. The Dutch defender arrived at United at the end of his second season, and the managerial curse appears to have followed him to Old Trafford. De Ligt has played under two managers at United Ten Hag oversaw a reunion with his former player at the Theatre of Dreams in the summer of 2024, but could not survive the managerial curse. The Dutch manager lost his job in October that year, with Ruben Amorim taking charge the following month. De Ligt was a first-team regular under the Portuguese head coach until his injury at the end of last year. A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person suggests that United have no desire to part ways with the defender this summer despite his fitness woes. That means that when the Dutchman returns to action next season, he will be playing under Carrick, and the strange record will continue. However, United fans will hope that the Englishman will finally lift the curse and relieve De Ligt of the unwanted record. Matthijs de Ligt: Details of Managers played under YearManagerClub 2016Peter BoszAjax 2017Marcel KeizerAjax 2018Erik ten HagAjax 2019Maurizio SarriJuventus 2020Andrea PirloJuventus 2021Massimiliano AllegriJuventus 2022Julian NagelsmannBayern Munich 2023Thomas TuchelBayern Munich 2024Erik ten HagManchester United 2025Ruben AmorimManchester United 2026 (Tentative)Michael CarrickManchester United Final Thoughts While United vastly improved their defensive performances under Carrick, they still remain vulnerable at the back. De Ligt was a rock under Amorim, and fans will hope that he can be a pillar in the club’s resurgence under the Englishman next season. 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 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.
