Manchester United are considering options to refinance a massive debt that is due next year, a new report has claimed. Glazers out? Earlier this week, a bombshell report from Bloomberg claimed that certain members of United’s controversial owners, the Glazer family, are keen on selling their stakes in the club after 21 years. The Glazers have been deeply unpopular among the fanbase ever since their leveraged buyout of the club. In addition to extracting money via dividends and failing to inject any investment, they have burdened the club with substantial debt and allowed both the playing squad and infrastructure to deteriorate. The result has been that United have fallen behind their rivals, with standards both on and off the pitch deteriorating. United fans have staged massive protests against the Glazers for years, yet only when INEOS chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe took operational control in 2024 did things start to head somewhat in the right direction. Still, the Glazers’ continued presence is a sore point. Bloomberg revealed that some factions of the Glazers have been quietly plotting their exit for months. It’s said that they want to cash out and finally walk away. The six Glazer brothers collectively own a 51 per cent stake in the Red Devils. Now, the same news outlet states that United are exploring options to refinance $425 million of debt set to mature next year through the private placement market. United’s plan Bloomberg write that the 20-time English champions are in early discussions with banks regarding the matter but nothing has been finalised yet. The club is refinancing debt from 2015, which comes with a fixed interest rate of 3.79%. Thanks to high demand, the new funding may hit $500 million, providing Michael Carrick’s side with additional funds beyond the refinancing. United are gearing up for a huge transfer window. Bolstering the midfield is believed to be the priority. Already, a full agreement has been struck for Atalanta’s Ederson to move to Old Trafford. At least one more midfield signing is expected. Other positions thought to be on the agenda include striker, left-back and left-wing. 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 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 line up ambitious plan that is set to unlock windfall of unexpected riches – report
United’s pursuit of 80m phenom rocked as Man City hold trump card for another of Wilcox’s top targets – Ben Jacobs
Manchester United risk losing out on another key target to their noisy neighbours as Manchester City hold a key advantage in the race for Morgan Rogers, according to a transfer expert. The Heir to Bruno Since signing for Aston Villa in 2024, Rogers has established himself as one of the best attackers in the Premier League, offering a potent combination of ball-carrying and goal-scoring threat. Morgan Rogers Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League37371077-3,285′ UEFA Europa League1512352-1,089′ FA Cup221—167′ EFL Cup10—-23′ Total555114129-4,564′ The England international is set to play a key role for the Three Lions at the World Cup this month. However, his future in Birmingham once the tournament in North America comes to an end is far from certain. Despite Unai Emery’s side winning the Europa League – with Rogers scoring in the 3-0 win over Freiburg – and qualifying for the Champions League with a fourth-placed finish in the Premier League, the 23-year-old is looking for a new challenge. The Villans’ preference is for their best players to remain at Villa Park, with Emery understood to consider the Halesowen native his standout star. However, there is growing acceptance that this summer is the right time to cash in amid growing financial difficulties off the pitch. This has put virtually every top club in England, as well as European champions Paris Saint-Germain, on red alert over a potential deal – with Villa understood to be looking to spark a bidding war. The Red Devils are one of the strongest suitors for Rogers, with Old Trafford chiefs viewing him as a potential successor to Bruno Fernandes. The Villa talisman’s versatility, capable of playing through the middle or out on the left, means he could line up alongside Fernandes before eventually moving inside to the No.10 role when the Portuguese superstar’s time at Old Trafford finally comes to an end. Man City’s ace in the hole Along with United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City are also gunning for Rogers’ signature, with all three having already held initial talks, according to TEAMtalk. Ben Jacobs confirms United’s interest, while revealing a sale worth around £80 million is “expected” as it “suits all parties.” Villa could even sanction it “before the [World Cup] for the right offer.” Crucially, the talkSPORT reporter claims City hold a buy-back clause for Rogers, having sold him as a youngster to Middlesbrough in 2023 without making a first-team appearance. It was at the Riverside Stadium, under the tutelage of Michael Carrick, where he truly flourished and attracted interest from Villa. Interestingly, Jason Wilcox was previously City’s academy director, having brought Rogers to the Etihad from West Bromwich Albion in 2019, with United’s sporting director understood to mirror Carrick as remaining a huge fan of their former protégé. Jacobs states City have “held a conversation about potentially triggering” the clause, though “nothing is advancing yet” on a deal, even if Rogers would be open to returning to his former club. Final Thoughts Rogers ticks virtually every box – young, hungry, versatile, Premier League-proven – INEOS look for in a new signing. A new left-winger is also on the agenda for United to bring more balance to Carrick’s forward line, making the 6’2″ wizard a leading target – with the player himself “very open” to a switch to M16. But the ace in the hole City hold – an unusual one, as buy-back clauses normally only apply to “direct transfers – i.e. Rogers’ move from Middlesbrough”, Football365 states – gives them the advantage over the Red Devils for yet another English talent, having seemingly already won the race for Elliot Anderson. Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social 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.
United finally have a chance to atone for their 50m blunder by making the obvious call for the next De Bruyne – opinion
In the summer of 2024, Manchester United had the opportunity to sign Joao Neves and secure their midfield for years to come, but instead did the complete opposite. United opted for Manuel Ugarte, agreeing on a £42 million transfer fee for the Uruguayan. That move effectively funded Paris Saint-Germain’s £50 million pursuit of Neves. It was disappointing enough that United may have inadvertently bankrolled the French side’s move for one of their own top targets that summer. But what makes it truly frustrating is that while Neves has gone on to become a massive hit in Paris, Ugarte has flopped massively in Manchester. The South American has failed to establish himself at United, and the club are now desperate to move him on and sign his replacement. Ugarte’s replacement That replacement could come in the form of West Ham United’s Mateus Fernandes. Fernandes was arguably one of the standout Premier League midfielders last season. Despite the Hammers’ struggles, he dazzled. The 21-year-old possesses a rare blend of elite technical control(complete with those Kevin De Bruyne-type passes), positional versatility, and a gritty defensive work rate. It is precisely what United wanted from Ugarte, yet precisely what the 25-year-old has consistently failed to deliver. Fernandes manages to judge the weight perfectly which means it curves away from defenders but towards the attacker without them having to break their stride. Those KDB-type passes. 🎥: @vsports_pt pic.twitter.com/pttKs6FLGx — Ben Mattinson (@Ben_Mattinson_) June 3, 2024 It is therefore logical to move Ugarte on and replace him with Fernandes. However, as straightforward as that may have seemed, particularly with West Ham relegated, it will not be that simple. Yesterday, The Athletic revealed that West Ham are demanding £80 million for anyone wishing to sign Fernandes. While that figure looks steep, it may be wise for United to simply go ahead and strike the deal, and here is why: A move for Fernandes carries unmistakable Neves-to-Paris Saint-Germain vibes. Before the Portuguese star moved to the French capital, United were heavily linked with him, yet never had the courage to splash the cash. PSG did, and the reward has been back-to-back UEFA Champions League trophies. Mateus Fernandes helps United correct the Neves transfer blunder United want Fernandes; he is Premier League proven, and they have a clear picture of what he can offer. It may therefore make sense to simply give West Ham what they want and get the deal done with no fuss. Such a move would be a way for United to atone for the Neves blunder, and in doing so, INEOS would be seeing off stiff competition from the likes of Arsenal and PSG, both of whom are reportedly keen on the midfielder. Some will argue it is unwise to spend such a fee on a relegated player. In this case, however, it may well be worth it given the player’s quality and given all the talk of a midfield transfer domino effect about to unfold across Europe. The knock-on effect from Real Madrid’s anticipated European raid Florentino Perez has just announced that Real Madrid are ready to make a record €150 million bid for a mystery player, and word on the street is that the Spanish giants could be targeting Joao Neves. Should Neves move to the Bernabeu, the suggestion is that PSG would go all in on Fernandes, widely regarded as the closest thing to the midfield engine Neves is. With Neves money at their disposal, it would be virtually impossible for United to compete with the Parisians in the Fernandes race. United must therefore be bold and get the Fernandes deal done soon. A Fernandes signing secures United’s future There are many ways this deal could take United’s midfield to the next level. Every minute Mateus Fernandes spends controlling territory and progressing play is another minute Bruno Fernandes can operate closer to goal and perhaps even break the Premier League assist record he set last season. Beyond that, just picture a young core of Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Leny Yoro, Senne Lammens, Benjamin Sesko, Patrick Dorgu, and Ayden Heaven; that United side would be genuinely frightening once they click. Featured image Clive Rose 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.
Take him the way he is: Surprise ally leaps to defence of United ace amid criticism
Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes justified his reputation as one of the game’s most creative players this season. The Portuguese maestro has been ageing like fine wine and made history this season by registering 21 assists in the Premier League. In the process, Fernandes broke the previous record for the most assists in a Premier League season (20), set by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne. The 31 year old also displayed his adaptability this season, slotting in seamlessly in a midfield double pivot alongside Casemiro in former head coach Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 system. However, it was as a No. 10 under Amorim’s successor, Michael Carrick, in the second half of the campaign that Fernandes truly came into his own. The Portuguese magnifico ran the show, helping the Red Devils secure third place in the Premier League table. That earned him his first-ever FWA Footballer of the Year award, as well as the Premier League Player of the Season award. Fernandes ended the campaign with nine goals and 22 assists in 37 appearances, all but one of which were starts. Bruno Fernandes Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League35359215-3,068′ FA Cup11-1–90′ EFL Cup10—-45′ Total37369225-3,203′ Source: Transfermarkt. United leader and legend Fernandes, who has won the FA Cup and the EFL Cup during his time at Old Trafford, was handed the armband by former manager Erik ten Hag in 2023. He has not only been United’s chief creator, but has also been one of the hardest workers on the pitch. Last season, the Portuguese covered the most distance among United players in the Premier League. While he is highly appreciated by fans, his tendency to wear his heart on his sleeve has received widespread criticism. Fernandes’ behaviour on the pitch, especially his habit of throwing his arms around, has been scrutinised as well. United legend Roy Keane recently criticised the Portuguese for prioritising the assists record, but he made a glaring mistake by incorrectly quoting the player, leading to a war of words with Fernandes. That incident came up on the Stick to Football podcast, where German legend Jurgen Klinsmann joined Gary Neville and co. to discuss several topics. Klinsmann defends Fernandes During the show, United legend Neville asked Klinsmann in jest if assists mattered to him, aiming a dig at former team-mate Keane’s feud with Fernandes. The ex-USA manager, however, defended the Portuguese, insisting that people have to accept Fernandes the way he is. He said: “Maybe, maybe I won’t say it, I did, but I try to keep it on the funny side of things because you will not change people on the field.” “They have their way of doing it. And if Bruno has made that way, you will not change him anymore. You have got to take him the way he is. At least if some goals come out of it, with all the assists that he is doing, fantastic.” Fernandes’ contract expires at the end of next season, and he is yet to sign a new deal. A previous report states that United are confident that their mercurial skipper will extend his stay at the club. Final Thoughts United are hardly ready for life after Fernandes, whose creative output will be tough to match. However, a recent report states that the Premier League giants are prioritising summer transfers ahead of contract renewal talks with the Portuguese. Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.
Ineos risk losing Vivell as former United boss wants to reunite with him at top European club – report
Christopher Vivell is playing an influential role in Manchester United’s rebuild under INEOS. The German mastermind was appointed as United’s director of recruitment on a full-time basis last year. He drove the pursuit of Benjamin Sesko and is also thought to be keen on signing Aurelien Tchouameni to replace Casemiro. However, United might soon find themselves in a battle to keep hold of Vivell. Ralf Rangnick sets sights on Manchester United man According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Ralf Rangnick wants to reunite with long-time collaborator Christopher Vivell. The pair first worked together at Hoffenheim in the early 2010s before Vivell followed Rangnick to the Red Bull football network. Rangnick, who was Manchester United’s interim manager during the second half of the 2021–22 season, is currently the head coach of the Austria national team. However, he is on the radar of AC Milan. Milan are set for a major rebuild, having parted ways with Massimiliano Allegri and key members of their football structure. The Rossoneri’s primary option for the technical director role is Austria coach Rangnick. The German has flown to the USA for the World Cup, but he has already made his demands known to Milan’s hierarchy. According to the Italian newspaper, Rangnick wants to work with Southampton director of sport Johannes Spors and Vivell at San Siro. It is suggested that Rangnick’s plan is to appoint Vivell as head scout of Milan in order to implement his vision swiftly and effectively. The Serie A giants are expected to communicate their final decision to the Austrian in the coming days. Rafael Leao prepared to leave AC Milan Meanwhile, Milan are thought to be open to sanctioning the exit of their talisman, Rafael Leao. Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming United hold “some genuine interest” in the Portuguese winger. He is seen as a “market opportunity” by Old Trafford chiefs. Leao has already announced his desire to leave Milan after seven years in Italy. The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!
United dealt decisive blow in pursuit of West Ham star as he dramatically rules out summer switch – report
Manchester United are plotting a triple raid on east London with three West Ham United stars, including club captain Jarrod Bowen, in their crosshairs this summer. Triple Threat The Red Devils are finalising plans to overhaul Michael Carrick‘s squad, with the priority being a complete revamp in midfield as Casemiro will leave this month and Manuel Ugarte is up for sale. A £38 million deal has already been struck for Atalanta dynamo Ederson, while talks are underway to make Mateus Fernandes – West Ham’s 21-year-old maestro – the second signing. The Hammers are demanding £80 million for the Portugal international, however, and growing interest from Europe’s elite may spark a bidding war that United are unable to win. Defensive reinforcements are also on the agenda as the club looks to add another left-back to their ranks. Luke Shaw’s injury-free season will not be repeated next year if the 30-year-old Englishman is the only option in Carrick’s squad, given that Patrick Dorgu is expected to remain stationed further forward. El Hadji Malick Diouf has enjoyed a fine maiden campaign in the Premier League after joining West Ham from Czech side Slavia Prague last summer. The Senegal international is one of the names on United’s list, with his combination of physical and technical traits seen as the “perfect profile” to complement Shaw. However, INEOS are intent on adding more firepower to Carrick’s attack, despite spending over £200 million on a new attacking trident of Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha last year. The ineffective performances of Joshua Zirkzee will see the Dutch forward – a false nine in the truest sense – placed in the shop window, with a return to Serie A considered the most likely landing spot. In his place, United want a more experienced No. 9, while another option on the wing is also desired – which has led Bowen to emerge as an unlikely target, given the 29-year-old England international is versatile enough to play right across the frontline. Bowen makes his position clear West Ham’s relegation will force a fire sale this summer, with over £100 million needed to be generated to deal with the descent into the Championship. This explains why their best players, such as Fernandes and Diouf, are being linked with exits. And while Bowen has no shortage of suitors himself, with the Red Devils joined by Chelsea, Liverpool and Newcastle United in their admiration of the Leominster native, he has issued a clear directive on his future in east London. The Sun reveals Bowen has “stated his desire to get the Hammers back to the Premier League after their relegation.” This position is mirrored by the club, who have told his various suitors they “want to keep their captain” this summer. West Ham may still be forced to sell Bowen if their financial situation demands it, but the direction of travel from player and club is that he will remain at the London Stadium, having done everything he could to keep Nuno Espirito Santo’s side up this season. Jarrod Bowen Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League38389114-3,409′ FA Cup332—360′ EFL Cup11-1–90′ Total424211124-3,859′ Final Thoughts The fact that Bowen turns 30 in December made him a surprise option for United, given how INEOS have sought to move away from signing older players. However, his track record of goals in the Premier League is outstanding, particularly as it comes in a defensive side languishing near the bottom of the division. His versatility, having played on both wings and as a striker for West Ham, was another plus, as are his leadership qualities in an increasingly ‘young’ dressing room at Old Trafford. However, it is his personality which is set to rule him out as a target due to his loyalty to his current club. 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.
United star closes in on remarkable awards hat-trick with latest nomination after outstanding WSL season
Manchester United star Jess Park is in line to land another top award following her latest nomination. Sensational season Despite United’s disappointing end to the 2025/26 campaign, it was still an incredible campaign for Park, having joined the club from cross-town rivals Manchester City last summer. Park arrived as part of a swap deal that saw Grace Clinton head the other way. Park wasted no time in rendering herself a key member of the squad. Within a very short period, she became the attacking lynchpin for United, partnering academy graduate Ella Toone. Park managed an impressive nine goals and five assists for United across all competitions. For her contributions, she was named United’s Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year. Now, it has been confirmed that the 24-year-old is in the running to claim the PFA Women’s Player of the Year award. Coveted award The ‘Top Six’ shortlist has been announced after votes were collected from players across the Women’s Super League. To scoop up the accolade, Park will have to ward off stiff competition from Kirsty Hanson (Aston Villa), Yui Hasegawa (Manchester City), Lauren James (Chelsea), Alessia Russo (Arsenal) and Bunny Shaw (Manchester City). The Top Six for the PFA Players’ Player of the Year. 🏆 Voted for by the players. pic.twitter.com/fW0Jj3Ck2g — PFA (@PFA) June 5, 2026 Bunny Shaw was voted Women’s Footballer of the Year for the second time in the Football Writers’ Association annual awards last month. United captain Bruno Fernandes won the men’s equivalent. Fernandes is also in contention to win the PFA Men’s Player of the Year. Kobbie Mainoo has been nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year. Park will learn her fate on 25 August at the PFA Awards ceremony in Manchester, where the winner will be revealed. Featured image Ben Roberts Photo 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 wizard shortlisted for major award after form that has left Amorim looking absolutely foolish
It has been a season of two halves for Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo. After initially struggling for game time and reportedly even considering leaving the club on loan, the young central midfielder became a key part of Michael Carrick’s side and reminded the world of his incredible talent. Mainoo is one of the most complete players to have emerged from Manchester United’s academy in decades. His composure on the ball is staggering, and his passing range is flawless. He is a player who, at just 21 years of age, has already proven himself comfortable on the biggest stages in the world. Perhaps then, it should come as no surprise that his fine form in the second half of the season has seen the Mancunian shortlisted for a prestigious award. Although, if you flashed back to just December, his shortlisting would have seemed almost impossible. A tough time After establishing himself as a key player under Erik ten Hag and scoring the winning goal in an FA Cup final, it seemed as if Mainoo had the world at his feet. This feeling was reinforced when he forced himself into England’s starting eleven at the 2024 UEFA European Championships, even starting the final against Spain. However, Ruben Amorim’s appointment spelled trouble for the burgeoning talent. In his first half-season at the club, it quickly became clear that the Portuguese manager did not trust Mainoo in a midfield two. He tried him as a number ten and even played him as a striker in a desperate bid to find a place for the composed midfielder. In his second season, though, Amorim neglected Mainoo altogether, with his only start coming in United’s embarrassing EFL Cup defeat to Grimsby Town. It seemed as though the England international would have to leave the club in order to protect what had once seemed such a promising career. Mainoo’s revival After a string of disappointing results and performances, Amorim left Old Trafford in January and was quickly replaced by former Red Devil Michael Carrick. From the outset, the former Middlesbrough manager seemed the perfect man to reignite Mainoo’s career, given that he was one of the best central midfielders the Premier League has ever seen. It immediately became clear that Mainoo had the full trust of his manager when he started Carrick’s first game, playing a key role in a 2-0 victory over fierce rivals Manchester City. From there, Mainoo kicked on and never looked back, displaying surprising stamina levels for somebody who had barely kicked a ball in the first half of the season. Across the remainder of the season, Mainoo produced a string of brilliant performances, culminating in the Mancunian scoring the winning goal against rivals Liverpool in a 3-2 victory in May. These exceptional performances earned Mainoo a new five-year contract that ensures he will continue to stun fans at Old Trafford for years to come. The young midfielder’s technical brilliance and impeccable attitude even earned him a place in England’s World Cup squad, where he will wear the number 16 shirt, just as his manager did before him. Heading to a World Cup on the back of only half a season of football is testament to Mainoo’s immense performances since Carrick took charge. A well-deserved achievement Perhaps there is no greater indication of the impact Mainoo had on United and the Premier League as a whole in the second half of the season than the fact that he has been included on the shortlist for Young Premier League Player of the Year. The supremely skilled midfielder will face off against Rayan Cherki, Max Dowman, Eli Junior Kroupi, Rio Ngumoha and Nico O’Reilly for the coveted award. The fact that many of his competitors have played many more minutes throughout the season just goes to show the colossal impact Mainoo has had in a short space of time. With the academy graduate set to be a key player next season, United fans can expect even bigger and better things in the future. 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 Mike Walsh Mike Walsh is an experienced freelance journalist who has written about a variety of topics over multiple years. He is very happy to finally be writing about the Red Devils, especially now that his favourite player, Michael Carrick, is in charge of the team.
Bruno Fernandes on track for more glory as he closes in on PFA award after record-breaking season
This time last summer, it was up for debate whether Bruno Fernandes had played his last game for Manchester United, with the Saudi Pro League preparing an eye-watering offer for the Portuguese star. However, after lengthy conversations, United convinced their talismanic skipper to stay in the North of England and be a part of the rebuild under then head coach, Ruben Amorim. A year on, it is the same promise made to United’s main man, but with Michael Carrick now in charge and no major pressure from the Middle East to tempt Fernandes away. Despite the club suffering shock exits in both domestic cup competitions, United, under Carrick, managed to salvage something from what could have been a disastrous season and qualify for next year’s Champions League via an impressive third-place finish. Additionally, Champions League football has all but guaranteed Fernandes will stay on at Old Trafford after his outstanding individual performance over the campaign saw him break records and guarantee himself a place in Premier League folklore. Nomination for huge Premier League award Bruno’s 21 assists broke the Premier League record set by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne respectively, resulting in accolades galore for the United man who carried the team on his back once again. After winning the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year for the record-breaking fifth time, Fernandes was voted as the Football Writers’ Player of the Season and has now been nominated for the most prestigious award of them all. As confirmed by the club, United’s captain is one of six names shortlisted for the coveted PFA Men’s Player of the Year, voted for by his fellow professionals. Fernandes faces competition from Manchester City duo Rayan Cherki and Erling Haaland, with Arsenal’s trio of David Raya, Gabriel, and Bruno’s main competition for the gong, Declan Rice. It is widely expected that only Rice could pip Fernandes to the honour after an impressive season from the England man led to the Gunners securing their first Premier League title in over two decades. Joining a special list Should Bruno top the voting, he will become the first United player since Wayne Rooney (2009/10) to win the award and join a star-studded list of past winners from the club. Mark Hughes was the first winner from United for his efforts in both the 1988/89 and 1990/91 seasons, with Gary Pallister scooping the prize in 1991/92. Eric Cantona is next on the list in 1993/94. United then had three separate winners on the spin, with Roy Keane in 1999/2000 followed by Teddy Sheringham and Ruud van Nistelrooy. Cristiano Ronaldo won back-to-back votes in 2006/07 and 2007/08, with Ryan Giggs recognised for his stellar career and campaign in 2008/09. Players across the Premier League will have already cast their votes, but due to the busy summer with the World Cup, the winner will not receive their prize until Tuesday 25 August. The ceremony is set to be held in Manchester, which Fernandes will be hoping proves to be a good omen for the United star, who might even have a World Cup winner’s medal added to his collection by that time. A Portuguese success in the U.S. would move Fernandes into another level of conversation entirely and firmly secure his place as one of the greatest players of his generation. The 31-year-old is undoubtedly United’s best signing since Sir Alex Ferguson, and whilst the top team prizes have eluded him so far at Old Trafford, it is wonderful to see him getting the recognition he deserves for another exceptional individual campaign. Everyone connected with the club will be wishing Bruno all the best and hope he can kick the new season off with a sign of things to come, with some silverware in his hands. Featured 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 Conner Botterill Conner Botterill has been with The Peoples Person for three years. A lifelong red with degrees in Sport and Journalism and Philosophy and Psychology through the Open University. His favourite match attended was the unforgettable night in Paris in 2019 under the guidance of one of his idols, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Conner still believes he has a chance of making United’s first team through his 5-a-side career.
United blindsided as Liverpool seize control of race for 60m PL maestro despite Wilcox holding talks – report
Manchester United’s pursuit of Alex Scott is under threat as Liverpool prepare to enter the race for the 22-year-old midfield maestro, according to a new report. Big changes at Anfield In a twist that few saw coming, Liverpool decided to dismiss Arne Slot last weekend, despite having publicly backed him throughout a difficult campaign on Merseyside. A combination of poor form, internal divisions in the dressing room, and growing animosity from the fanbase left the American owners with no other choice but to relieve the Dutch manager of his duties. However, another important factor was undoubtedly the availability of Andoni Iraola, fresh from overseeing the best season in AFC Bournemouth’s history. The Reds believe he is the perfect candidate to take charge at Anfield, possessing a personality and philosophy which mirror Jurgen Klopp’s. The Spaniard was considered as a potential option for the Red Devils during INEOS’s extended review to settle on the long-term successor to Ruben Amorim. In the end, United’s hierarchy decided to stick with Michael Carrick, rewarding the interim boss with the permanent job. But the confirmation of Iraola as Liverpool’s next head coach may quickly come back to haunt United, as he is already plotting a reunion with Scott, one of his protégés at the Vitality Stadium. Iraola is pushing hard The England under-21 international, who is currently training with the Three Lions ahead of the World Cup as a back-up, has enjoyed a superb season at the heart of Bournemouth’s side. While his stats do not jump off the page, he has been integral in implementing Iraola’s high-energy approach, predicated upon counter-pressing and forcing transitions, which has seen the Cherries qualify for Europe for the first time in their 127-year history. Alex Scott 25/26 season stats Matches playedGoalsAssistsMins played 39413062 While this style of football can often resemble chaos, Scott’s technique and intelligence help bring calm to the storm of Bournemouth’s play. He is comfortable receiving the ball under pressure, as well as being able to make penetrating passes between the lines. But these technical gifts are balanced by an unrelenting engine and work rate out of possession – two prerequisites to play under Iraola. He is also understood to have an excellent attitude, as demonstrated by his humility in travelling with Thomas Tuchel’s squad, despite having missed out on an official call-up. With United planning a major overhaul of their midfield unit this summer, it is little surprise Scott has emerged as a key target. Carrick is said to be a huge admirer of the former Bristol City star, having faced him many times in the Championship while manager of Middlesbrough. United have held initial talks to gauge the viability of a deal, with Bournemouth so far failing in attempts to lock their midfielder down on a new contract. However, Sports Boom reveals Iraola is already “plotting an ambitious move” to sign Scott, with the prospect of a reunion said to be a “significant advantage in the race for his signature.” Bournemouth are “hopeful of reaching an agreement over a new deal”, and will not allow another one of their highly rated talents to leave the south coast “without a fight.” A price tag of £60m is understood to have been set. Final Thoughts Interest in Scott is not limited to the north-west of England, with both Arsenal and Chelsea also keeping tabs on the Guernsey native. If United are to strike a deal ahead of their rivals, sporting director Jason Wilcox will need to move quickly to agree terms with both the player and his club. If not, Iraola’s desire to “stamp his mark” at Anfield will see Liverpool jump the queue and secure Scott’s signature before the INEOS chief gets the chance. Featured image Justin Setterfield 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.
