(3-4-3-1) New Manchester United line up under Thomas Tuchel after recent board meeting decision taken today over new manager
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Man United transfer news LIVE Thomas Tuchel ‘lined up’ amid Erik ten Hag stance as Manuel Ugarte reveals talks
Keep across all the latest Manchester United news, views and transfer rumours in the MEN’s dedicated live blog
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by Amie Wilson, Isaac Johnson, Jack Flintham, Josh Holland
Updated07:26, 4 Sep 2024
Thomas Tuchel, Head Coach of Bayern Munich, arrives at the stadium prior to the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and VfL Wolfsburg at Allianz Arena on May 12, 2024
Thomas Tuchel has been linked with a move to Manchester United(Image: Photo by F. Noever/FC Bayern via Getty Images)
The international break is upon us, meaning that Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has extra time to work out his next move following an afternoon to forget against Liverpool last weekend.
The 3-0 home defeat has led to questions being asked about the United boss. It has also led to some speculation that United may look to bring in a free transfer to help bolster their midfield which was particularly poor against Liverpool.
Former Juventus and France international Adrien Rabiot has been linked with a switch to Old Trafford. The central midfielder has been on Ten Hag’s radar previously but a deal has always failed to materialise.
If United are not able to add to their midfield options they will be looking towards Manuel Ugarte to bolster the midfield. Ten Hag has already admitted the 23-year-old has not had the pre-season anyone would have wanted but after Casemiro’s difficult time against Liverpool, the Uruguayan may be needed sooner rather than later.
He is currently away on international duty, as are several members of the United squad. He could possibly make his debut when the Premier League returns next weekend.
Follow the live blog below for all the very latest United news and transfer updates.
Key Events
DONE DEAL: United make decision on surprise trialist
11:10
07:26Amie Wilson
Good morning
Hello United fans & happy Wednesday!
My name is Amie and I will be guiding you through this moorning and the early afternoon bringing you the latest Manchester United news and rumours.
The transfer window may now be closed, but that doesn’t stop speculation over who may come and go, with United able to use the free transfer market as well as eyes turning to January.
Let’s start by taking a look at some of the stories already from this morning:
Man United handed ideal Casemiro transfer scenario as new Adrien Rabiot claims made
Jose Mourinho can finally sign Chelsea player who he wanted to replace Luke Shaw
Manchester United have one clear weakness nobody is talking about
‘The facts’ – Erik ten Hag and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer disagree on Manchester United progress
Manchester United have given Bruno Fernandes the signing he asked for four years ago
22:45Josh Holland
Thank you
Thank you for joining us through the day.
We’ll bring you all the latest transfer gossip and news from Carrington tomorrow so make sure you stay tuned!
21:48Josh Holland
Injury situation explained
Injuries have been a recurring issue at Manchester United under Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman struggled to field a consistent backfour last season, with Lisandro Martinez, Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and others facing lengthy spells in the treatment room. This season has started worryingly for United in that aspect as well, with Leny Yoro, Rasmus Hojlund and Shaw all currently injured.
It’s a worrying trend at Old Trafford, which will stunt any development for young players and shorten the career of a senior pro. Injuries are part of football, but consistent injury issues, particularly in one area of the pitch, will only expose United’s weaknesses further.
And recent research via Sporting Post has revealed the extent of United’s injury issues. Not surprisingly, Tyrell Malacia has spent the highest number of average days injured per season in Ten Hag’s squad (103.6).
19:26Josh Holland
Souness takes aim at United
Liverpool legend Graeme Souness has called Manchester United “‘FC Hollywood” whilst sharing his belief that Kobbie Mainoo should not be a regular starter.
Souness previously shared doubts over Casemiro’s signing at United in 2022, calling the Brazilian “a steady Eddie” rather than someone who could make much difference at Old Trafford. And the Scotsman has now had his say on the Brazilian’s struggles and Mainoo.
“I have to say this as well, Mainoo might be a player but it’s not me being critical of Man United, someone comes on the scene and there the new George Best, the new Bobby Charlton, the new Denis Law.
“It’s FC Hollywood”
18:33Josh Holland
Ugarte reveals United duo talks
Manuel Ugarte has revealed how Bruno Fernandes and Lisandro Martinez helped him make up his mind to join Manchester United.
The midfielder joined the club for £42m on deadline day to become their fifth summer signing. He has since revealed the role Fernandes and Martinez played in bringing him to the club.
“First and foremost, its history, because we all know what a massive club United is,” said Ugarte. ”One of the best teams in the world. I’ve watched a few games since the news started to come out. I’ve also spoken with one or two players – with Bruno and Licha – and I have chatted quite a lot.
“I also spoke a lot with Facu Pellistri and he told me all about everything – the atmosphere that’s generated, the matchday atmosphere that builds up at Old Trafford is incredible.
“So yes, I’m really excited. I’d love to experience United’s legendary stadium as a player and feel the presence of the supporters. I’m really thrilled and, more than anything, eager and excited, while I obviously realise that it’s a great responsibility and I’m prepared for that.
“I’ve never seen anything like it before, these United fans, because, since the news first came out, they’ve been sending me messages. It also made the news in Uruguay and so I also think that the supporters, the real fans, the die-hard United fans, deserve the club to be winning trophies and that’s what we’re hoping to achieve.”
18:15Josh Holland
Barnsley kick-off confirmed
Manchester United’s Carabao Cup third round tussle with Barnsley at Old Trafford has been penciled in for Tuesday, September 17.
United exited the Carabao Cup at just the second hurdle last season, being beaten 3-0 by Newcastle United at Old Trafford at the fourth round stage. They had, of course, beaten the Magpies 2-0 in the final of the competition in 2022/23.
The clash with Barnsley will be sandwiched between back-to-back Premier League away trips for Erik ten Hag’s side, the first of which is against Southampton at St Mary’s on Saturday, September 14. The Reds travel to Crystal Palace on Saturday, September 21.
17:07Josh Holland
New signing ‘buzzing’ to join
Hubert Graczyk has said he is “buzzing” to have joined Manchester United after making the switch to Old Trafford during the summer transfer window.
The shot-stopper, 21, is understood to have joined United earlier in the summer after being released by Arsenal. It is thought that his arrival at the club will officially be announced when United publish their Professional Development League squad.
Reacting to his move to United on his Instagram page on Tuesday, Graczyk posted: “Buzzing to have signed for this massive club, let’s get to work.”
16:35Josh Holland
Amrabat transfer rejected
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag was denied the permanent signing of Sofyan Amrabat by the club’s new hierarchy, according to reports.
talkSPORT have claimed that Ten Hag presented a case to bring Amrabat back to Old Trafford towards the end of the summer transfer window. However, sporting director Dan Ashworth and technical director Jason Wilcox didn’t grant the decision.
(Image: Neal Simpson/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images.)
16:04Josh Holland
Agent confirms Eriksen decision
Christian Eriksen’s agent, Martin Schoots, has confirmed the midfielder will stay at Manchester United.
The Denmark international was linked with a return to Ajax towards the end of the transfer window. However, he will remain part of Erik ten Hag’s side. “There has already been interest from various sides for Christian, but he will stay with United,” he told Voetbal International.
“There were options in the Arab world, Turkey and the MLS, but those were ruled out in advance because Chris and his family want to stay in western Europe. In addition, he is confident that he will get enough playing minutes. Manchester United will play every three days in the coming months, so Eriksen will still be important for United.
“There has been informal contact with Anderlecht but never more than that. Ajax made inquiries in January, but that was too early at the time and the question was not asked this summer. So that was not an issue.
“There was another Dutch club that contacted us, but that was not an option. It is difficult when you play for one of the three biggest clubs in the world to go to a much smaller competition, especially without Champions League football.
“We can put an end to those speculations. At least until the end of the calendar year, then they will flare up again.”
(Image: 2024 Getty Images)
15:33Josh Holland
ICYMI
You may have missed it earlier today. Former Man United academy star Tommy Rowe has rejoined the club as a player-coach, 21 years after he left the club.
Rowe on the club’s books before leaving in 2003 to join Stockport County. The midfielder went on to play more than 500 games in the EFL across stints at Peterborough, Wolves and Bristol City.
The 35-year-old made his Premier League 2 debut last month.
14:56Isaac Johnson
Tuchel ‘lined up’ to replace Erik ten Hag
A report from the Mirror claims that United will re-approach Thomas Tuchel if they ultimately decide to sack Erik ten Hag.
The club are thought to have spoken to the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager over the summer during their end-of-season review before eventually sticking with Ten Hag, who is facing scrutiny after a poor start to the campaign.
Now, it is being claimed that United could make another enquiry given Tuchel has yet to find new employers after leaving Bayern at the end of last season.
This claim comes after CEO Omar Berrada told MEN Sport ahead of Sunday’s match with Liverpool that he “absolutely” has faith in Ten Hag to succeed at United.
Former Bayern Munich boss, Thomas Tuchel (Image: 2024 Stefan Matzke – sampics)
14:37Isaac Johnson
Ashworth pleased with Fernandes retention
Earlier in the window, there had been inklings that a bid from Saudi Arabia could arrive for Bruno Fernandes this summer.
The captain had said that he would only renew terms with United if the club wanted him to stay. No bid ever arrived and Fernandes subsequently duly signed a renewal last month that keeps him at Old Trafford until 2027.
Speaking to MEN Sport, sporting chief Dan Ashworth said he was happy to keep hold of the playmaker.
“Retaining your best talent… Bruno, clearly, had an unbelievable season. He’s been brilliant since he’s been here, his game availability is fantastic – I hope I haven’t jinxed that yet (touches wood).
“His output is brilliant, his output on and off the pitch is really good as well, the influence he brings to the other players as captain, I can’t speak highly enough of him. It was a crucial part of the transfer strategy as well.”
14:03Steven Railston
Why a 35-year-old joined United
As one source said recently, sometimes you need a player on the pitch to give academy players “a good f****** talking to’ because football is a brutally competitive environment.
The noise at Premier League grounds drowns out what the players are saying, but anyone who follows football down the English pyramid will know what an unforgiving place football can be because in-game conversations are often audible.
Nobody wants to be on the losing side – it’s kill or be killed. That is the reality of senior football and it helps explain why Premier League clubs are opening their doors for players in the winter of their careers to take on hybrid academy player-coach roles.
(Image: 2023 Allstar)
13:29George Smith
Erik ten Hag has to break his golden rule again
Manchester United’s start to this season has felt very similar to 2022/23.
They have lost two of their opening three Premier League matches; they have been beaten by Brighton & Hove Albion; they have already faced Liverpool at Old Trafford; and they have locked horns with a team from west London.
The pattern of the results has been different but one element has been identical: a defensive-minded midfielder was unveiled ahead of a clash with Liverpool at Old Trafford.
(Image: Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images.)
12:51Isaac Johnson
Cole hits back at Ten Hag critics
United hero Andy Cole has branded criticism of Erik ten Hag as “nonsense” and says the United boss deserves to be in the hot seat at Old Trafford.
Speaking to Betfred about the pressure being applied to the United boss following Sunday’s 3-0 loss to Liverpool, Cole said:
“I don’t really entertain that nonsense. I really don’t. Everybody’s going to have an opinion and say what they have to say and want to say.
“Ultimately, Erik ten Hag’s in charge and he deserves to be in charge because winning two cups in two seasons isn’t doom and gloom.
“I understand that they’ve lost in a big game at home against Liverpool and it wasn’t a game that we lost many times when I was playing for Manchester United, but we’re only three games in.”
“It’s not as if Manchester United have been terrible in all those three games. They beat Fulham and they were unlucky against Brighton. For me personally, it can’t be doom and gloom and we just need to let Erik get on with his job.”
12:40Isaac Johnson
Souness criticises Mainoo usage
Graeme Souness says Kobbie Mainoo should not be shouldering the midfield pressure he is doing at his age at United and suggested his quality has been over-hyped.
Speaking on talkSPORT, the ex-Liverpool captain said of the 19-year-old:
“If anyone shows anything, they’re put into superstardom category, way before they’ve even become a good player.
“And Mainoo right now should be a player that’s flitting in and out of a good team – not coming in and being asked to stand up and play against the very best teams.
“He might be a player one day, but he’s certainly not the go-to man at United like they’re making him out to be in midfield.”
(Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images.)
12:09Isaac Johnson
‘De Ligt is ready for Premier League’
Former United coach Rene Meulensteen believes Matthijs de Ligt is ready to succeed in Premier League football, despite his shaky start to life at the club.
The centre-back came on before Brighton’s winner 10 days ago, before being taken off after conceding three against Liverpool on Sunday.
But speaking to The Sun, Meulensteen is confident De Ligt will turn out to be a good signing.
“I think he’s equipped for the Premier League football, because of his physique and he’s a young player with experience in Champions League.
“It’s going to be interesting run of developments in the upcoming games whether Ten Hag is going to go for a partnership with De Ligt and [Lisandro] Martinez which means [Harry] Maguire is falling by the wayside again.”
(Image: Getty)
11:38Isaac Johnson
Ashworth explains Sancho exit
Sporting director Dan Ashworth has explained the reasons behind Jadon Sancho’s exit to Chelsea.
Having missed the opening 1-0 win over Fulham before being left out of the squad that lost to Brighton, Sancho secured a season-long loan to Chelsea, who have an obligation to buy at the end of the campaign.
Asked whether the move was sanctioned because there had been no future for him at United, Ashworth replied:
“Nothing to do with that. It was a decision that we made – if it’s right for Jadon and it’s right for us to move on.
“He wanted to explore the opportunity at Chelsea, like Scott wanted to explore the opportunity at Napoli, like Aaron wanted to explore the opportunity at West Ham.
“We’re not in a position where we’re kicking players out of the club.”
Jadon Sancho completed a deadline day transfer to Chelsea. (Image: Chelsea FC)
11:10Key Event
DONE DEAL: United make decision on surprise trialist
Manchester United have appointed Tommy Rowe as their player-coach role in the academy.
The Manchester Evening News revealed in July that United were considering the appointment of Rowe and that he was set to play as a trialist in an Under-21 pre-season game.
The 35-year-old has now officially joined the club in the hybrid position, which will see him help coach the Under-21s and give on-field feedback to players.
10:44Isaac Johnson
Fernandes ‘misses’ Portugal training
A report from native outlet Record says Bruno Fernandes has missed Portugal’s first training session of the international break due to his flight being delayed.
United teammate Diogo Dalot managed to arrive in time, as spotted in training photos. It is thought the first session back was only consisted of recovery work.
Portugal are due to play Croatia on Thursday before taking on Scotland on Sunday, both being Nations League matches.
(Image: Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images.)
10:16Isaac Johnson
Fernandes: We cannot win PL
Bruno Fernandes has conceded that this Manchester United squad does not have the credentials to form a title chase this season.
The club captain was speaking candidily to Portuguese media after Sunday’s 3-0 defeat to Liverpool, which leaves United with just three points after three games.
“Yes, I am perfectly aware that this Manchester United is not ready to win the Premier League,” Fernandes began.
Bruno Fernandes acknowledged the Manchester United squad lacks title credentials(Image: DAZN Portugal)
09:45Tyrone Marshall
Erik ten Hag’s fate could rest on two factors
Twenty-four hours after an underwhelming Europa League schedule was confirmed for Manchester United, they had to face up the prospect of another season threatening to unravel. This wasn’t how it was supposed to be.
While Manchester City look forward to fixtures against Inter, Juventus and PSG and Liverpool face AC Milan and Real Madrid, United’s most enticing European fixtures are a battle of Britain against Rangers and a Jose Mourinho reunion in Istanbul.
Missing out on the Champions League places by eight points wasn’t considered enough to dispense with the services of Erik ten Hag, who saved his job by winning the FA Cup final. A cup alone won’t keep him in that gig this season.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag(Image: Michael Regan/Getty Images)
09:22Isaac Johnson
Dan Ashworth and Omar Berrada Q&A
MEN Sport and other journalists sat down with United chiefs Damn Ashworth and Omar Berrada this weekend ahead of the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool.
A broad range of topics were covered including transfers, the exit of Jadon Sancho and the retention of Erik ten Hag.
“I’m very excited and very optimistic at what we have in front of us,” said Berrada. “I think we’re starting to put the right pieces in place and I’m absolutely convinced that we’re going to be successful.”
(Image: Amazon Prime Video)
08:52Isaac Johnson
‘Ugarte is unreal’
Former United midfielder Owen Hargreaves is excited about what impact Manuel Ugarte will have on his new team.
His arrival has increased in significance following Casemiro’s poor performance against Liverpool on Sunday. Hargreaves believes Ugarte could be what United need to stablise the midfield.
He told Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel:
“The manager has got to say, right, I have got Casemiro there, he’s one of our best players, he’s on a big contract. I have got to put somebody around him to help him, and I will tell you who might be that guy – Ugarte.
“That kid is unreal out of position. He’s a walking tackl
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