In Memoriam of Sir Bobby Charlton: A Giant of the Game
In the early hours of a fateful Saturday morning, the world of football received somber news. Sir Bobby Charlton, the iconic figure whose name resonates with Manchester United and England, has passed away at the age of 86. His remarkable journey through the beautiful game has left an indelible mark on football history.
Sir Bobby Charlton’s illustrious career spanned 17 years, during which he graced the Old Trafford pitch in 758 games. He is widely celebrated as one of the greatest players ever to don the red and white of Manchester United. His impact was not limited to club football; he scored 49 goals in 106 appearances for the England national team, a pivotal figure in their historic World Cup victory at Wembley in 1966.
Records That Speak Volumes
Charlton’s contribution to Manchester United cannot be overstated. He scored an impressive 249 goals during his tenure with the club, which included three league titles and a momentous European Cup win in 1968. This feat catapulted the club to international glory, marking a period of unprecedented success.
On the international stage, Sir Bobby’s passion for the game translated into 106 caps and 49 goals for the Three Lions. The pinnacle of his international career came in 1966 when he lifted the World Cup, etching his name into football folklore. His leadership and skill on the field inspired a nation.
FILE PHOTO: FIFA Ambassador and England soccer legend Bobby Charlton holds up the FIFA World Cup trophy at a kick-off of the trophy’s 10-city tour of Japan in Yokohama, venue of the World Cup final match, west of Tokyo March 9, 2002. The trophy is to tour Shizuoka, Osaka, Kobe, Oita, Saitama, Kashima, Niigata, Sendai, and Sapporo, after which it goes on tour in South Korea. REUTERS/Eriko Sugita ES/CP/File Photo
A Legend Remembered
The news of Sir Bobby Charlton’s passing sent shockwaves throughout the footballing world. Manchester United paid a heartfelt tribute to their hero, describing him as a “giant of the game.” His legacy extends far beyond the pitch, transcending borders and touching the hearts of millions worldwide. Charlton’s influence on and off the field was undeniable.
His 1966 World Cup-winning teammate, Sir Geoff Hurst, expressed the sentiments of many, saying, “We will never forget him & nor will all of football.” Bobby Charlton’s impact stretched beyond the sport, resonating in the hearts of those who knew him. He was a true ambassador of the game.
A Triumph of Character
Sir Bobby Charlton’s journey through football was not without its share of challenges. He was a survivor of the Munich air disaster in 1958, a tragedy that marked a turning point in his life. It was a testament to his character that he played a crucial role in rebuilding a side that ultimately competed in the FA Cup final that very year. This resilience endeared him to fans and peers alike.
Sir Bobby Charlton, Image via Goal
The 1960s witnessed the rise of the ‘Holy Trinity’ at Old Trafford, a trio that included Denis Law and George Best, with Charlton’s presence forming a crucial part of this iconic ensemble. The trio symbolized an era of footballing brilliance that continues to be celebrated today.
A Life Beyond the Pitch
Beyond his playing days, Charlton’s dedication to football remained unwavering. He took up managerial roles, notably at Preston, and served on the board of Wigan. His connection with Manchester United endured, as he returned to the club in 1984, this time as a director, a position he held for an astounding 39 years. His commitment to the club’s success was unwavering.
Beyond Football
Sir Bobby Charlton’s influence wasn’t confined to the boundaries of the pitch. He played a pivotal role in England’s bid to host the 2006 World Cup, showcasing his dedication to the growth of the sport. He was also a bid ambassador for the London 2012 Olympic Games, further solidifying his status as a sports icon both in the UK and globally. His impact extended well beyond football, leaving an indelible mark on the sporting world.
Britain Football Soccer – Manchester United v Wigan Athletic – FA Cup Fourth Round – Old Trafford – 29/1/17 Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney with Sir Bobby Charlton before the match Reuters / Phil Noble Livepic/File Photo
In the wake of Sir Bobby Charlton’s passing, the footballing community mourns the loss of a true legend. He will be remembered not only for his exceptional skills on the field but also for his sportsmanship, integrity, and enduring love for the beautiful game. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his greatness. Sir Bobby Charlton will forever be celebrated as a giant of the game, a symbol of excellence, and a source of inspiration for generations to come.
Becoming a goalkeeper often requires a touch of madness, and this sentiment is entirely accurate. It’s a role that offers little gratitude and seems hardly worth the trouble. A single mistake can haunt you indefinitely. There’s significantly less margin for error than any other position on the field. As a goalkeeper under the Manchester United microscope of introspection, the stakes are even higher. Such was the life of David de Gea 12 years ago, and now, it’s Andre Onana’s reality.
David de Gea & Andre Onana, Images via Getty Images
But the question looms, who had the more challenging start? What were the nuances of their early struggles? Is there hope for Onana, or should he explore alternative career paths, perhaps as a motivational speaker or a YouTube personality? We’ll delve into these questions as we dissect and compare the turbulent beginnings of David de Gea and Andre Onana at Manchester United.
David de Gea’s Start at Manchester United: De Gea’s Debut and Early Struggles
David de Gea’s arrival at Manchester United was a momentous occasion, filled with great expectations. His debut was no ordinary one; it took place against arch-rivals Manchester City in the 2011 Community Shield, a match United came from behind to win 3-2. However, De Gea’s initial forays hardly inspired confidence. In one instance, City took the lead when David Silva delivered an enticing cross from a free-kick. Unfortunately, De Gea’s hesitation to claim the ball allowed Joleon Lescott to head City into the lead. A week later, a similar narrative unfolded as he let a speculative effort from Shane Long slip under him and into the net.
Moments of Brilliance and Mixed Bag
Amid these early struggles, there were moments of brilliance. After keeping a clean sheet in a 3-0 triumph against Tottenham Hotspur, De Gea’s first heroic moment in a United shirt came when he saved a Robin van Persie penalty in their famous 8-2 thrashing of Arsenal, though he allowed Theo Walcott to get on the scoresheet with a shot between his legs. De Gea’s early games were indeed a mixed bag, with concerns about his lack of physicality persisting.
Andre Onana’s Start at Man Utd: A Non-Conventional Approach
The arrival of Andre Onana at Manchester United was marked by anticipation and excitement, with high expectations for the Cameroonian goalkeeper. However, Onana’s approach during the preseason raised eyebrows, as he often ventured high up the pitch, displaying a proclivity for acting more like an outfield player. This style, which deviated from the traditional goalkeeper role, quickly backfired when he was lobbed from the halfway line in a friendly against Lens.
Early Errors and Moments of Improvement
Onana’s official debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers resulted in a clean sheet, but it was marred by controversy when the visitors were denied a stoppage-time penalty. Onana had completely clattered striker Sasa Kalajdzic, who stood at an imposing 6’7, when trying and failing to claim a cross. Subsequently, a 2-0 loss at Tottenham followed, but blame could hardly be laid at Onana’s door. Nevertheless, the same cannot be said for his performance a week later when he twice made himself smaller, leading to quick-fire goals scored by Nottingham Forest.
Despite moments of improvement, Onana’s early performances faced challenges, with criticism surrounding a 3-1 loss at Arsenal and a 3-1 defeat by Brighton & Hove Albion. While he seemed to find some stability with normal games in the Premier League and Carabao Cup, occasional errors continued to surface.
Andre Onana, Image via Twitter
More Challenges and Errors
Onana’s performances faced further challenges, including a 4-3 loss at Bayern Munich, in which he allowed a slow-moving Leroy Sane shot to find the back of the net. Signs of improvement surfaced when Onana had entirely normal games in the Premier League against Burnley and Crystal Palace, as well as in a Carabao Cup clash against the Eagles. However, he couldn’t escape the occasional error, and in United’s 3-2 loss to Galatasaray, Onana’s poor pass from the back led to Casemiro’s red card, and he was again beaten with ease for Mauro Icardi’s winner.
Finally, in a game against Brentford, an almighty thank you was due to Scott McTominay, whose stoppage-time brace helped overshadow Onana’s blunder that led to Mathias Jensen’s goal down the middle of the goal.
Whose Start Was Worse?
Comparing the challenging starts of David de Gea and Andre Onana, it’s evident that De Gea’s early struggles were punctuated by moments of promise. He faced criticism for his lack of physicality but exhibited his capabilities as a young shot-stopper. Onana, on the other hand, arrived at Manchester United with high expectations, with many considering him to be a finished product. However, his initial performances fell short of the lofty standards set for him, and his willingness to embrace a more unorthodox style drew both curiosity and critique.
David de Gea with Sir Alex Ferguson, Image via Twitter
In the realm of goalkeeping at Manchester United, both David de Gea and Andre Onana encountered challenging starts. De Gea, despite his initial criticisms and doubts about his physicality, grew into his role as a proven shot-stopper and overcame his early difficulties. His early promise paved the way for a successful tenure.
On the other hand, Onana, expected to be a finished product, has yet to live up to the high expectations set for him. His eagerness to venture outside the traditional goalkeeper’s role has garnered both interest and scepticism. While there is still time for Onana to turn his Manchester United career around, the early signs have raised doubts about his adaptation to the Premier League, which is known for its unforgiving nature.
Andre Onana, Image via Twitter
It’s worth noting that goalkeepers tend to peak later in their careers, so the future holds the key to whether Onana can replicate the success of De Gea or chart a different path in his football journey.
The Manchester United Supporters Trust has released a statement in response to Sheikh Jassim walking away from a potential takeover of the club. They have demanded clarity over the situation of the potential takeover, amidst reports that Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the owner of Ineos, could purchase a 25% stake in the club leaving the Glazers in charge.
United fans have been extremely vocal in their distrust and dissatisfaction of the Glazers’ ownership. Green and yellow flags demanding the American owners to leave have been visible for years at Old Trafford and away. But in spite of a vastly public bidding process this summer, there have been no significant developments.
Manchester United Supporters Trust demands clarity as Sheikh Jassim exits takeover race
“It would be wildly optimistic to think Glazers are acting in the interests of supporters or are making ownership decisions which don’t centre on their own priorities”.
“We call upon all parties to put Man Utd interests before their own interests”.
“If the reports are true regarding INEOS obtaining a 25% stake in our club there are a number of questions which need clarity before supporters can make any judgement on its merits,” the official statement released by the Manchester United Supporters Trust said in their official statement.
Sheikh Jassim offered a sum worth £3.5 billion for a 100% takeover, with £1.5 billion pledged in favour of erasing the club’s massive debts. But, the Glazers found this promise to be unrealistic and have refused to sell to the QIB chief.
It now remains to be seen whether Ineos will end up purchasing a minority stake soon, with the removal of the Glazers to eventually follow.
In another blow to Manchester United’s squad, Casemiro has suffered an injury while on international duty with Brazil. The 31-year-old asked to be substituted after suffering a blow to his ankle in the World Cup qualifier against Venezuela, confirmed head coach Fernando Diniz after the game.
The midfielder did not train with the national team on October 14 either, choosing to stay at the hotel and undergo physiotherapy and recovery instead. Casemiro will probably not be available for Brazil’s upcoming game against Uruguay, with the full extent of the injury yet to be officially confirmed.
Casemiro picks up fresh injury as Manchester United’s selection issues worsen
OSLO, NORWAY – JULY 12: (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
Erik Ten Hag has been forced to field a starting eleven without the likes of Kobbie Mainoo, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Lisandro Martinez, Amad Diallo, Tyrell Malacia, and Luke Shaw in recent weeks. All these players have been sidelined with injuries, while Raphael Varane and Sergio Reguilon only recently gained full fitness again.
The Dutchman was also forced to sideline Antony due to his domestic abuse case, and continues to avoid picking Jadon Sancho after their public row. As a result, the team’s on-pitch performances have suffered leaving them 10th in the Premier League table with 12 points, only one above Chelsea.
United will be keeping tabs on Casemiro’s injury, given that he is unlikely to feature in Brazil’s match against Uruguay. He could also miss the club’s Premier League game against Sheffield United after the international break, adding to their selection problems.
Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani has pulled out of the race to purchase Manchester United, after a round of final talks with the Glazers. The Qatari chief was set to bid a value worth double the €3.5 billion valuation that the American owners set, with €1.5 billion extra planned in the form of investments.
However, the Glazers rejected Sheikh Jassim’s offer once again which has caused the QIB chief to withdraw from the race completely. As a result, the Glazers will continue to stay in charge of the club in spite of the mass protests from fans and the drama surrounding a potential sale over the summer.
Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani withdraws from race to buy Manchester United
Britain’s richest man, Sir Jim Ratcliffe was also in the running to buy Manchester United this summer alongside Sheikh Jassim. But, unlike the Qatari Sheikh, his offer was for a partial takeover with the Glazers still at the club owning a minority stake.
After it was initially thought that his bid would be rejected, Ratcliffe now appears in pole position to claim 25% of the club for £1.3 billion. This minority investment is part of a long-term takeover process which will see the Glazers eventually removed from ownership.
But, Ratcliffe’s bid is yet to be ratified now that he is the only major player left in the race to buy the club. The final decision will be made after a voting process within the United board.
The Beginning of the Season Has Been Disappointing for Manchester United, but We’ve Identified Five Aspects That Could Offer Fans and Erik ten Hag Some Hope.
When Rasmus Højlund sped through and skillfully slotted the ball past Fernando Muslera, giving Manchester United a second lead against Galatasaray in their UEFA Champions League group stage match on Tuesday, it seemed like a potential turning point.
Manchester United vs Galatasaray, Image via Reuters
However, when Kerem Aktürkoğlu swiftly equalized moments later due to more shockingly poor defending from the home team at Old Trafford, it felt like a familiar setback.
This disappointment was compounded by a red card for Casemiro, a late winner by Mauro Icardi for the visiting team, and United’s sixth defeat in their last nine matches in all competitions.
This was not how things were supposed to unfold.
Every club’s fans are entitled to some preseason optimism, but for Manchester United, it has quickly shifted from title aspirations to crisis concerns, and we’re only in early October. After a relatively promising first year with United, Erik ten Hag is now under scrutiny regarding his ability to restore the club to its former glory.
Rasmus Hojlund Against Galatasaray, Image via Reuters
At the start of the season, we had assigned relatively favourable probabilities to Manchester United’s top-four finish. Nonetheless, with merely nine points accumulated from their initial seven Premier League matches in the 2023-24 season, their prospects for Champions League qualification have significantly dwindled. Presently, there are indications that they might conclude as low as ninth, a situation that was previously considered implausible prior to the season’s commencement.
1. Recovering Players from Injury for Manchester United
Injuries are a common occurrence in all teams, or so you’ll often hear when they are cited as an explanation for poor performance, and there is some validity to that statement.
While injuries are part and parcel of the game, the real challenge arises when they occur in a specific area, as Liverpool fans can attest. In the 2020-21 season, they didn’t suffer a high volume of injuries, but they did lose all of their senior center-backs simultaneously for a significant portion of the campaign. This unfortunate circumstance disrupted their title aspirations early on and nearly cost them a top-four finish.
Luke Shaw, Image via Reuters
Currently, Manchester United’s predicament lies at left-back, where they are facing a shortage of options. With Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and loan signing Sergio Reguilón all sidelined, Sofyan Amrabat has been forced to fill in recently, which was evident in Tuesday’s match as the Morocco international struggled in an unfamiliar role.
Defensive setbacks have been observed throughout the team, with the first-choice center-back pairing of Lisandro Martínez and Raphaël Varane only playing 197 minutes together, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka having already been out of action for nearly a month. Star signings Mason Mount and Rasmus Højlund also missed some of the early part of the campaign due to injuries, while the situations involving Antony and Jadon Sancho have added to the challenges.
Managers seldom enjoy the luxury of having an entirely healthy squad at their disposal. Nevertheless, if Ten Hag can successfully reintroduce at least one dependable choice in every position, it may offer the team a chance to establish stability and boost morale. This would be especially crucial in defense, potentially yielding advantages for the team in the forthcoming matches.
2. Reducing Reliance on the Goalkeeper to Rescue Matches
Manchester United has faced a challenging start to the season, losing six out of their 10 matches in all competitions (with 4 wins). They’ve also conceded 18 goals across all competitions, the highest tally at this stage of the season since 1966-67 when they conceded 20 goals. These two facts seem interconnected.
However, it’s important not to lay all the blame on André Onana for this situation, even though some argue that there might be a connection between the team’s vulnerability in defense and the departure of long-time goalkeeper David de Gea at the end of the previous season.
Andre Onana, Image via Reuters
De Gea was renowned for making spectacular saves to keep United in matches, often considered one of the best at pulling off crucial saves that few others could replicate in key moments. In a way, the team had become somewhat overly reliant on his extraordinary shot-stopping abilities.
As we previously discussed, De Gea’s ability to make crucial saves appeared to decline in recent seasons. While Onana has certainly delivered some noteworthy saves this season, he has also let in a notable number of goals. The decision to acquire the former Ajax and Inter goalkeeper was influenced by his skill with his feet, but when the opposition consistently scores, it elevates the urgency of addressing his goalkeeping performance over his distribution abilities.
Looking at the statistics, Onana has featured in all 10 of United’s games this season, facing 50 shots on target and conceding 17 goals (excluding own goals) from an expected 15.8 goals on target (xGOT). This means he has conceded approximately 1.2 goals more than what one would typically expect from a goalkeeper.
Andre Onana’s XGOT in 2023-2024 Season Across All Competitions as of now, Image via Opta Analyst
When we compare André Onana’s performance to David de Gea’s first 10 games of the previous season, some interesting insights emerge. De Gea conceded 17 goals from just 43 shots on target, with an expected goals on target (xGOT) of 14.3. This means he conceded 2.7 goals more than expected during that period.
It’s worth noting that some of the matches in that timeframe were in the Europa League, not the Champions League. Taking this into account, Onana’s record doesn’t appear too unfavorable when compared to his predecessor.
Andre Onana’s XGOT in 2022-2023 Season Across All Competitions in First 10 Games Only, Image via Opta Analyst
The performance of the Cameroon international hasn’t been without flaws thus far, but it seems that the main issue might stem from a deficiency in defensive support. This leads us to the next topic…
3. Restoring Casemiro to His Real Form or Turning to Amrabat
The acquisition of Casemiro was a significant turning point for Manchester United’s fortunes last season. The former Real Madrid midfielder brought a relentless, win-at-all-costs mentality that had been missing at the club. He was known for making crucial tackles, scoring important goals, and stepping up when it mattered most.
However, this season, something seems off. Among United players who have featured in at least half of their 10 games, only Aaron Wan-Bissaka (3.2) has averaged more tackles per 90 minutes than Casemiro (2.9). However, none of his teammates have been dribbled past by opponents as frequently as Casemiro, who allows opponents to get past him 2.4 times per 90 minutes. In the Premier League, only Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai has been dribbled past more often, but unlike Casemiro, Szoboszlai isn’t a defensive midfielder and doesn’t play the same protective role in front of the defense.
Casemiro’s ball retention has also been a concern. While fellow midfielders Bruno Fernandes (76%) and Christian Eriksen (82.9%) haven’t been setting passing accuracy records, Casemiro (83.4%) plays in a deeper-lying midfield position, which would typically involve controlling the game while allowing others to take more high-risk, high-reward passes. However, his pass map against Galatasaray illustrates that he has been attempting to force plays too often, resulting in turnovers and the opposing team gaining possession.
Casemiro’s Pass Map vs Galatasaray, Image via Opta Analyst
The notable positive aspect about Casemiro is that he continues to be, somewhat inexplicably, one of Manchester United’s primary goal threats. He is currently the top scorer for the team in all competitions this season, having scored four goals. Only Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford (both with 28 attempts) have taken more shots than his 20.
However, Casemiro’s second yellow card against Galatasaray, resulting from a reckless challenge on Dries Mertens, was a desperate attempt to prevent a goal after a poor pass from Onana. Some might argue that he didn’t have much of a choice, but it was undeniably a rash and clumsy action.
If Manchester United can figure out how to get Casemiro back to something resembling his form from last season, it could have a significant impact. If not, perhaps Erik ten Hag should consider deploying the ever-energetic Sofyan Amrabat in Casemiro’s usual position.
Casemiro Against Galatasaray, Image via Reuters
Amrabat, currently on loan from Fiorentina, ranked joint third among midfielders for tackles (16) at the last FIFA World Cup and led in possession regains (57). He also recorded 26 recoveries in the defensive third, the highest among the same group of players. In Serie A, his 89.3% passing accuracy in open play was only surpassed by four midfielders (with a minimum of 1,000 minutes played) last season.
Alternatively, Amrabat could be used alongside Casemiro to provide greater protection to the back four, reducing the defensive burden on Casemiro.
4. Reviving Marcus Rashford’s Form
Discussing players who need to recapture their form from the 2022-23 season, Marcus Rashford has indeed struggled to replicate his previous performances.
Last season, he scored an impressive 30 goals in 56 games in all competitions, taking a total of 167 shots (including blocks), resulting in an expected goals (xG) value of 24.3.
However, in the current 2023-24 season, Rashford has made nine appearances, managing just one goal from 28 shots with an xG of 2.7. His remarkable shot conversion rate from the previous season has plummeted dramatically from 18% to a mere 3.6%. Consequently, a player who averaged a goal every 143 minutes in the 2022-23 season has only scored once in 768 minutes this term.
Marcus Rashford’s Season Comparisons, Image via Opta Analyst
Until a recent match where he chose to pass instead of shooting, Marcus Rashford hadn’t shown signs of shyness in front of goal. In fact, only Erling Haaland (32) had attempted more shots in the Premier League than Rashford’s 28. However, the crucial issue seems to be that he’s not finding the space to shoot as frequently as before. Out of Rashford’s 28 shot attempts, 17 have been blocked, which is five more than any other player in the league (Eberechi Eze with 12). In the previous Premier League season, out of his 108 shots, only 27 were blocked.
In a recent 3-1 home defeat to Brighton, Rashford was involved in eight shot-ending passing sequences, but none resulted in goals, despite him taking the shots. Furthermore, in the match against Galatasaray, he didn’t attempt a single shot during his 68 minutes on the pitch. It’s unclear whether this was a conscious effort to adopt a more composed approach or if his form has led to a lack of confidence.
Like Casemiro, it’s difficult to believe that Rashford has suddenly become a significantly lesser player. If Erik ten Hag can help him regain the confidence he exuded last season, there’s every reason to believe he’ll return to scoring crucial goals in important moments. His assist in the recent match showcased his ability to contribute positively.
5. Building Around Rasmus Hojlund
Amidst the discussion of areas that need improvement, it’s essential to highlight one of the few bright spots at Old Trafford.
Reflecting on Rasmus Højlund’s goal to make it 2-1 against Galatasaray, it exuded a certain aura. The game hung in the balance when Davinson Sánchez slipped, and Højlund seized the opportunity, displaying excellent ball control in wet conditions and finishing with precision. It didn’t ultimately lead to victory for United, but that can hardly be attributed to the young striker.
Højlund may not have arrived with an extensive senior goal record despite his substantial summer transfer fee, but you can already discern what attracted United to him. His movement, touch, and confidence appear to be at the required level.
While the young Dane is yet to score his first Premier League goal, there’s optimism that, with opportunities created by his teammates (instead of relying on defensive mishaps), Højlund will start finding the back of the net. In a recent match, he tried to carry the team on his shoulders, but was let down at the other end of the pitch.
At the age of merely 20 years and 241 days, Rasmus Højlund achieved a historic feat by becoming the youngest player to score in his initial two Champions League appearances since Erling Haaland accomplished it in 2019. Furthermore, he joins an exclusive group as the fourth player to net three goals in his first two Champions League outings for Manchester United, alongside Dimitar Berbatov (4), Romelu Lukaku (3), and Wayne Rooney (3).
While Højlund may currently trail Casemiro as United’s overall top scorer, with a goal-scoring rate of 0.6 goals per 90 minutes, it’s only a matter of time before he takes the lead.
Addressing these issues on the pitch is crucial, and there’s still plenty of football left to be played. While some might feel that a simple call for change would suffice, Manchester United’s challenges must be resolved through action and performance on the field.
Champions League 23/24 results: Arsenal and Manchester United were both stunned in their Champions League round 2 matches, with defeats to Lens and Galatasaray respectively. On the other hand, Real Madrid earned a hard-fought victory over Napoli at the Estadio Diego Armando Maradona.
Union Berlin were overcome by Portuguese side Braga, who completed a 3-2 comeback to win the game and deny the Champions League debutants a first-ever win in the competition.
Champions League 23/24 results: Matchday 2, 3 October
RB Salzburg 0-2 Real Sociedad
Union Berlin 2-3 Braga
FC Copenhagen 1-2 Bayern Munich
Inter Milan 1-0 Benfica
Napoli 2-3 Real Madrid
Manchester United 2-3
Galatasaray
Lens 2-1 Arsenal
PSV Eindhoven 2-2 Sevilla
Manchester United stunned by Galatasaray at home
Via Galatasaray’s Twitter
Goals from Mauro Icardi, Wilfried Zaha and Kerem Akturkoglu allowed the Turkish champions a massive win at Old Trafford. Rasmus Hojlund scored a brace to make it three goals in two Champions League appearances, but the red card to Casemiro in the second half changed things completely, allowing Icardi to score the match-winning goal and keep Erik Ten Hag’s side pegged to the bottom of their group.
Bayern continue winning run in UCL Group Stage
After beating Manchester United 4-3 in their opening game, Bayern travelled to Copenhagen for their second game. They found themselves down by one goal shortly into the second half, after Lukas Lerager found the back of the net.
But, Jamal Musiala and Mathys Tel were able to help their side complete a 2-1 comeback and earn six points to remain at the top of their group. The Bavarians continued their record of staying unbeaten in the group stage with the win.
Via Twitter
Napoli defeated by fiery Madrid performance
Arguably the match of the night, Real Madrid overcame Napoli to win 3-2 and make it two wins in two games. Vinicius Jr marked his return from injury with a clinical finish, while Jude Bellingham made it 9 goals in 8 games since signing for Los Blancos this summer.
Alex Meret unluckily conceded an own goal after Federico Valverde’s shot deflected and ricocheted off the crossbar to end up in the back of the net, which proved to be the difference maker.
Manchester United youngster Hannibal Mejbri is set to sign a new deal with the club in the coming weeks. Negotiations are expected to start by the end of the year between the player’s entourage and the club to reach an agreement soon.
The youngster put in a remarkable display recently when he broke the record for the most distance covered in a game for Manchester United since 2019 with 12.9km against Burnley. As of now, he also leads the list of the most pressures and sprinting pressures per 90 minutes.
Hannibal Mejbri to sign new contract with Manchester United
Via Fabrizio Romano’s Twitter
The 20-year-old also scored an exceptional goal against Brighton when United lost 3-1 to them, and has now impressed with a stellar outing against Burnley. The board is keen to tie him down to the club with a new deal, and the player is eager to do the same.
The Tunisian spent last season on loan with Birmingham City in the Championship and has been integrated into the first team by Erik Ten Hag this season. With the youngster slowly growing into an impressive figure, it will be interesting to see whether he can retain his spot with so many senior midfielders also at the club.
He had offers from Sevilla in July, and the Spanish side continue to monitor his situation. And if United cannot reach an agreement with Hannibal Mejbri over a new deal, they run the risk of losing a talented youngster with a contract running down quickly.
Jadon Sancho has been exiled from all of Manchester United’s services including the dining area and training at Carrington after the public fallout between the two. The player has been training alone after his comments that he was being scapegoated.
The winger was left out of the matchday squad against Arsenal for not meeting standards in training, according to Ten Hag. But, the player responded shortly after through an Instagram post where he asked fans to not believe the manager and his reasons for leaving him out of the squad.
Jadon Sancho deactivates Instagram after off-pitch debacle with Ten Hag
The Instagram post that Sancho made was deleted shortly after it went up. In addition, the player has now deactivated his Instagram account as well for reasons currently unknown.
Fellow Manchester United players Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw have reportedly asked Jadon Sancho to apologise to Erik Ten Hag. But, the tension between the two parties persists for the time being while the former Borussia Dortmund man is now exiled.
He has failed to live up to the potential he showed at Borussia Dortmund since his £73 million move in 2021. And now, an exit in the January transfer window could follow if the situation doesn’t improve behind the scenes at Carrington.
For Erik Ten Hag, things keep getting worse with their injury crisis. Antony has also been sidelined after the domestic abuse case that is currently ongoing, leaving the Dutchman in a difficult position with on-pitch performances also suffering.
David De Gea will consider retiring from professional football if he doesn’t receive an offer from a top European club soon. The transfer window is shut in Europe, but free agents can still be signed and registered.
However, he has not received an offer to be a starter at any top European club. The likes of Bayern made an offer to the player to sign him, but he turned them down since he wouldn’t be the first choice keeper there.
David De Gea considering retirement after no offers
He was presented with a new deal by United which he signed, but the club changed their mind at the last minute by offering him another deal with a lower salary.
David De Gea didn’t accept the second offer and chose to leave United after more than a decade at the club. The 33-year-old has not commented on his future or revealed whether the reports about retirement are true. But, it is quite shocking to see him without a club even at this stage of the season.
It was expected that he would finally join Real Madrid after the ACL injury to Thibaut Courtois early in the season. But, Madrid opted to sign Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga on a loan deal instead of signing De Gea.
