Michael Carrick names the Man United player who ‘disappointed’ him despite 3-2 win over Roma
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has admitted he was disappointed with how Matheus Cunha’s extraordinary performance against AS Roma ended after the Brazilian was sent off during Tuesday’s dramatic 3-2 Champions League victory.
Cunha was the hero at Old Trafford, scoring twice in the closing stages to complete a remarkable comeback after United had trailed 2-0 at half-time.
However, his memorable evening ended in frustration when he received a second yellow card right before the end of the game.
Despite the dismissal, Carrick was full of praise for the Brazilian’s contribution, highlighting the passion and determination that helped United end their nine-match winless run.
Michael Carrick reacts to Matheus Cunha red card against Roma
Speaking after the match, Carrick admitted that Cunha’s dismissal had taken some of the shine off an otherwise outstanding individual performance.
However, the United manager was keen to focus on the qualities that made the Brazilian such an important player during the comeback.
Carrick said (quotes shared by Fabrizio Romano):
“I was a bit disappointed with how it finished, but it just shows how much he cares and he’s willing to do when he’s in that frame of mind. When he’s in that mood, and he plays like that… that’s why we want him here.”
Cunha received his first yellow card for taking his shirt off during a wild celebration following his 86th-minute winner, before receiving a second booking minutes later for a late challenge on Leonardo Balerdi.
Cunha helped Man United end their winless streak
Manchester United appeared to be heading towards another disappointing result after falling 2-0 behind against Roma.
With Carrick already facing intense pressure following nine consecutive matches without a victory, the situation looked increasingly concerning at half-time.
However, United produced a remarkable second-half response, with Cunha playing a central role in all three goals.
The Brazilian won a penalty in the 58th minute, allowing captain Bruno Fernandes to reduce the deficit from the spot.
Cunha then took matters into his own hands during the closing stages.
He scored in the 83rd minute to bring United level before striking again just three minutes later to complete the comeback.
His 86th-minute winner sparked wild celebrations at Old Trafford as United turned a two-goal deficit into a dramatic 3-2 victory.
The result ended the Red Devils’ nine-match winless streak across all competitions and provided Carrick with a much-needed boost.
For Cunha, it was a performance that demonstrated his ability to influence matches at the highest level, although his red card ultimately prevented him from celebrating the final whistle alongside his teammates on the pitch.
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Leeds target £30m-rated midfielder to solve creativity problem in five-club battle
Leeds United are reportedly interested in signing Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara as Daniel Farke looks to address his side’s lack of creativity ahead of the January transfer window.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, the Whites have identified the Brazilian international as a potential midfield addition, keen to improve their attacking quality in the second half of the season.
Gabriel Sara could be an ideal midfield addition
The 27-year-old has established himself as an important player for Galatasaray since joining the Turkish giants from Norwich City in 2024.
Sara has enjoyed an encouraging start to the current campaign, registering two goals and four assists in ten appearances across competitions. His technical ability, creativity and vision could make him an attractive option for Leeds as they look to improve their final-third performance.
The Yorkshire outfit have struggled to convert promising attacking situations into goals, with a lack of imagination and quality in the final pass proving costly in recent weeks.
Sara could help address those concerns. Having previously spent two seasons in English football with Norwich, he would also require less time to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.
The midfielder is understood to be keen to experience top-flight football in England, making a move to Elland Road an appealing proposition.
Leeds face competition for Sara’s signature
However, convincing Galatasaray to sanction his departure will not be straightforward. The Brazilian remains under contract until 2029, which puts the Turkish champions in a strong negotiating position.
Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Everton and Crystal Palace have also explored signing him, with Leeds previously making enquiries during the summer transfer window.
The Whites are also considering Coventry City’s Jack Rudoni and Lyon’s Pavel Sulc as alternative creative options.
Nevertheless, Sara remains an attractive target for Farke. Leeds could benefit greatly from his creativity and attacking contributions, but they will need to beat rival clubs to secure his signature in January.
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‘It was painful’: Liverpool star reveals what club told him about his future
Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has made a surprising revelation about his future at Anfield, claiming he was informed last season that the club had no immediate plans to offer him a new contract.
The Argentina international admitted the news was painful to hear, particularly as he remains keen to continue his career with the Reds.
Speaking to Argentine journalist Gastón Edul, Mac Allister revealed that his situation could still change following significant developments behind the scenes at Liverpool.
The 27-year-old has just 18 months remaining on his current deal, raising questions about his long-term future amid reported interest from Real Madrid.
Alexis Mac Allister reveals Liverpool contract decision left him hurt
Mac Allister opened up about the uncertainty surrounding his future during an interview with Gastón Edul.
The World Cup winner revealed that Liverpool officials had previously communicated their intention not to renew his contract, at least at that stage.
He admitted the decision was difficult to accept, given his desire to remain at Anfield.
He said (quotes shared by Fabrizio Romano):
“Everything can happen before I am a free agent. We are in a situation where I have a year and a half left on my contract, where last season it was conveyed to me that the club’s idea was not to renew my contract, at least for now. And well, obviously it was a painful, unpleasant situation.
“I still had time or still have time left at this club, which is what I want most, to continue here. The reality is that the manager has changed, the sporting director has changed, and new investors are coming into the club. So I think today I am in a position where anything can happen, and well, we will see in the future. I am happy here.”
? Alexis Mac Allister on his future: “Everything can happen before I am a free agent”.
“We are in a situation where I have a year and a half left on my contract, where last season it was conveyed to me that the club’s idea was not to renew my contract, at least for now. And… pic.twitter.com/1coBVciJUp
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 4, 2026
Alexis Mac Allister keen to stay at Liverpool despite Real Madrid links
Mac Allister’s admission comes amid speculation linking him with a potential move to Real Madrid.
The Spanish giants have reportedly been monitoring the Argentina international’s situation as they assess possible midfield reinforcements.
With the midfielder approaching the final 18 months of his contract, his future could become an increasingly important issue for Liverpool.
Allowing a player of Mac Allister’s quality to enter the final year of his deal without an agreement would potentially create a difficult decision for the club.
Mac Allister has re-established himself as an indispensable cornerstone of Andoni Iraola’s side.
The Argentine playmaker has produced a series of dominant displays in central midfield this season, with the World Cup winner even chipping in with some important goals, in particular in the Champions League.
Liverpool could either attempt to secure his long-term future or face the possibility of increased transfer speculation as his contract approaches its expiry.
However, the midfielder has made it clear that his preference is to remain at Anfield.
His declaration that continuing at Liverpool is what he wants most will provide encouragement to supporters concerned about his future.
It also suggests that an agreement could still be possible if the club decides to reopen discussions
With Real Madrid closely monitoring his situation, Mac Allister’s elite level of performance has sparked intense debate among supporters and pundits alike, who believe his resurgent form warrants a complete U-turn from the board and a fresh contract offer.
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Manchester United find potential solution to complicated January pursuit of 12-goal star
Manchester United are reportedly considering a loan move for Al-Ahli striker Ivan Toney as Michael Carrick looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the January transfer window.
According to a report from Football Insider, the Red Devils are exploring a temporary deal to bring the England international back to the Premier League, rather than committing to an expensive permanent transfer.
Ivan Toney could be an ideal attacking addition
The 30-year-old has continued to impress in Saudi Arabia, establishing himself as one of Al-Ahli’s most important players. His goalscoring record has attracted attention from several clubs, with Manchester United now considering a move to strengthen their forward line.
Toney has scored 12 goals in just nine Saudi Pro League appearances this season, while he managed an impressive 41 goals across all competitions last term. His performances show he remains a prolific goalscorer who can make an impact at the highest level.
Manchester United could benefit from signing an experienced centre-forward, particularly with Benjamin Sesko currently sidelined through injury. Toney’s physical presence, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing could give Carrick a reliable option up front.
The former Brentford striker also has considerable Premier League experience, having established himself as one of the competition’s most dependable forwards before moving to the Middle East in 2024.
Manchester United explore loan solution for Toney
However, negotiating a permanent transfer could prove extremely difficult. Toney earns a substantial salary at Al-Ahli, while the Saudi club faces no financial pressure to sell its leading goalscorer.
United are therefore considering an initial loan arrangement to avoid taking on his lucrative contract.
Toney has previously shown little urgency to return to English football, meaning the Red Devils may also need to convince him that a move to Old Trafford represents the right opportunity.
Nevertheless, a temporary agreement could provide United with a practical solution to their attacking problems without requiring a significant long-term financial commitment.
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Real Madrid appoint global sporting superstar to board in surprise announcement
Tennis legend Rafael Nadal has announced that he has accepted a proposal to join Real Madrid’s board of directors, marking a significant new chapter in his long-standing relationship with the Spanish football giants.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion revealed that club president Florentino Pérez and the board had invited him to take up a position within the club’s leadership structure.
Nadal, a lifelong Real Madrid supporter and honorary club member, expressed his excitement at the opportunity to contribute to the club’s future.
Rafael Nadal confirms Real Madrid board appointment
Nadal announced the development on social media, thanking Pérez and the club’s leadership for offering him the position.
The former world No. 1 said:
“I want to thank President Florentino Pérez and the Board for proposing that I join the Board of Directors of Real Madrid. I have accepted this proposal with great excitement, a desire to learn, and with willingness to contribute everything I can.”
Quiero agradecer al presidente Florentino Pérez y a la Junta que me hayan propuesto formar parte de la Junta Directiva del @realmadrid.
He aceptado esta propuesta con mucha ilusión, ganas de aprender y aportar todo lo que pueda.
??? https://t.co/HgLCmWjOPq pic.twitter.com/cFBQnUVW6j
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) November 4, 2026
Real Madrid have also welcomed the development, describing the opportunity to bring Nadal into the club’s leadership as an immense honour.
His reputation for professionalism, resilience and sporting excellence has made him one of Spain’s most recognisable sporting figures.
Rafael Nadal’s lifelong connection with Real Madrid
Despite growing up in a family with strong Barcelona connections, Nadal has always been an enthusiastic Real Madrid supporter.
His uncle, Miguel Ángel Nadal, played for Barcelona during the 1990s and was part of Johan Cruyff’s celebrated side.
However, Rafael developed an allegiance to the Catalan club’s biggest rivals.
His connection with Real Madrid was formally recognised in March 2011, when Pérez awarded him honorary club membership.
Nadal has since been a familiar presence at the Bernabéu and has regularly expressed his affection for the club.
He has also reportedly played an informal role in transfer discussions.
In 2014, Nadal was said to have contacted Pérez to recommend signing Marco Asensio, who was then emerging as a promising youngster at Mallorca.
The midfielder subsequently joined Real Madrid and went on to enjoy considerable success at the club.
Nadal’s proposed move into the boardroom would therefore represent a more formal role within an organisation he has supported throughout his life.
Famous football crossovers
Nadal’s transition into Real Madrid’s boardroom adds to a storied history of high-profile crossovers between elite football clubs and figures from other sports and entertainment domains:
LeBron James & Liverpool: NBA superstar LeBron James acquired a minority stake in Liverpool FC in 2011 via Fenway Sports Group, later converting his holding into a main FSG equity stake while routinely promoting the club globally.
Tom Brady & Birmingham City: NFL legend Tom Brady became a minority owner and chairman of the advisory board at Birmingham City in 2023, applying his expertise on nutrition, health, and recovery to the club’s athletic operations.
Giannis Antetokounmpo & Nashville SC: Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo joined the ownership group of MLS club Nashville SC alongside Hollywood actress Reese Witherspoon.
JJ Watt & Burnley: NFL defensive icon JJ Watt and his wife, former USWNT star Kealia Watt, invested in Burnley FC in 2023, actively embedding themselves in the club’s community and commercial identity.
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Newcastle and Everton prepare £30m battle for in-demand midfielder
Newcastle United and Everton are reportedly interested in signing Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara as several European clubs prepare to compete for his signature ahead of the January transfer window.
According to a report from Fussball News, the Brazilian international has attracted interest from multiple clubs, with Napoli and Roma also monitoring his situation. Galatasaray could consider selling the midfielder if they meet their financial demands.
Gabriel Sara attracts Premier League interest
The 27-year-old has become an important member of Galatasaray’s midfield since joining from Norwich City in 2024. His technical ability, creativity and contribution in the final third have made him an attractive proposition for several European clubs.
Sara has enjoyed an encouraging start to the 2026/27 campaign, registering two goals and five assists in 13 appearances across competitions. His impressive performances have strengthened his reputation and attracted attention from clubs looking to improve their midfield options.
Newcastle and Everton are particularly keen on securing his services, with both Premier League clubs reportedly prepared to invest around £25-30 million to bring him to England.
Newcastle could benefit from adding another creative presence in midfield, while Everton are also looking to improve their options in that department. Sara’s previous experience in English football with Norwich City could help him adapt quickly to the demands of the Premier League.
Galatasaray demand €40m for Sara
However, convincing Galatasaray to sanction his departure will not be straightforward. The Turkish giants are reluctant to lose an influential player and reportedly value him at approximately €40 million.
They could nevertheless be willing to negotiate a deal worth around €35 million if an interested club presents a suitable offer.
Napoli and Roma are also monitoring developments, increasing the competition for his signature.
With several clubs interested in the Brazilian midfielder, Galatasaray could face a difficult decision in January. Newcastle and Everton may need to improve their financial proposals if they want to secure his services.
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Liverpool explore January move for Man United-linked defender amid uncertain future
Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde as Andoni Iraola looks to strengthen his defensive options ahead of the January transfer window.
According to a report from Medium, the Reds are prepared to explore a deal for the Spanish international, whose future at the Catalan club has become increasingly uncertain following his reduced involvement under Hansi Flick.
Alejandro Balde could be an ideal defensive addition for Liverpool
The 23-year-old has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter this season, with competition from Joao Cancelo and other defensive options limiting his opportunities.
Balde was previously regarded as one of Barcelona’s most exciting young talents, showcasing his pace, attacking instincts and ability to contribute in the final third. However, his lack of regular football could encourage him to consider a fresh challenge elsewhere.
Liverpool could benefit from a quality left-back, particularly as Milos Kerkez has yet to consistently deliver the performances expected of him since arriving at Anfield. The Hungarian international needs greater competition, and Balde could provide an excellent alternative.
His technical ability, recovery pace and experience at the highest level would make him an attractive option for Iraola. Furthermore, the opportunity to work with a manager who could offer him a prominent role might appeal to the Barcelona defender.
Barcelona could sanction Balde departure
However, Liverpool will need to find an agreement with Barcelona before progressing with their interest. The Spanish giants are increasingly open to allowing the defender to leave in January after his disappointing start to the campaign.
Manchester United are also monitoring his situation, while several other Premier League clubs have been offered the opportunity to sign him.
A loan arrangement could provide Liverpool with an opportunity to assess his performances before considering a permanent transfer.
With Barcelona willing to listen to offers and Balde keen to secure regular playing time, a move to Anfield could benefit all parties involved.
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Arsenal receive midfielder enquiry from Bayern Munich amid contract uncertainty
Arsenal could have an important decision to make over Martin Ødegaard in 2027, with Bayern Munich continuing to monitor the Gunners captain while uncertainty surrounds his next contract.
The 27-year-old remains a hugely important figure for Mikel Arteta, but his current deal expires in June 2028.
Arsenal have already begun informal discussions over an extension, with the club understandably keen to avoid allowing one of their most valuable players to enter the final year of his contract.
Bayern and Juventus monitoring Ødegaard situation
According to Daily Briefing, ayern Munich and Juventus are among the European heavyweights keeping close tabs on Ødegaard, with Bayern having maintained contact with his representatives over several years.
That Bayern interest is supported by Sky Sport Germany, which reported that Ødegaard can imagine playing for the Bundesliga champions at some stage.
Bayern have had repeated contact with his camp in previous years, although importantly, he is not currently considered one of their priority transfer targets.
Bayern are monitoring the situation and that other major European clubs have made enquiries.
The Juventus interest appears less advanced at this stage, with no similarly strong recent indication that a formal bid is being prepared.
Arteta has made his feelings about Ødegaard very clear. After his excellent start to the campaign, he said:
“That’s the Martin we know and we love; he is our captain. We need to keep giving him the ball and letting things happen.”
New Arsenal contract should remain the priority
For Arsenal, selling Ødegaard should only become an option if contract negotiations genuinely break down.
He is captain, one of Arteta’s main creative players and an important part of Arsenal’s pressing structure. Replacing all three qualities would be considerably harder than simply finding another attacking midfielder.
Bayern’s interest is worth watching, particularly because Ødegaard is reportedly receptive to playing there eventually. But there is currently no formal negotiation between the clubs.
Arsenal therefore still control the situation.
The sensible move is to secure Ødegaard on a new long-term contract during the coming months. If that proves impossible, a major sale in 2027 may become financially sensible but at the moment, keeping him should clearly be the priority.
Mourinho makes Arsenal player with “charisma and personality” his top transfer target
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Man United pursuit of La Liga midfielder complicated by Luis Enrique interest
Manchester United’s pursuit of Pablo Barrios has become more complicated, with Paris Saint-Germain now emerging as serious competition for the Atlético Madrid midfielder.
United have been tracking the 23-year-old for some time and recently made an enquiry about his situation as they continue assessing midfield reinforcements for 2027.
Barrios’ combination of defensive discipline, athleticism and ability to progress the ball makes him an attractive fit, but PSG’s growing interest is bad news for a club that already faces a difficult negotiation with Atlético.
PSG are firmly in the race for Barrios
According to TEAMtalk, Man United have contacted Atlético Madrid about Barrios, although their interest remains at an exploratory stage and no formal negotiations have begun.
United reportedly used their recent Champions League trip to Madrid to gather more information on the midfielder after Barrios scored inside the opening minute of Atlético’s 2-0 victory over them.
The bigger concern is PSG. TEAMtalk reports that Luis Enrique is a major admirer and that the French champions are currently viewed as one of the clubs most capable of testing Atlético’s resolve.
Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City have also monitored Barrios, making this an increasingly crowded transfer race.
Atlético are under no pressure to sell. Barrios signed a contract running until 2030 and TEAMtalk reports that his deal contains a huge €500million release clause, designed to give the Spanish club maximum negotiating control.
United’s admiration is long-standing. TEAMtalk previously reported that club scouts were impressed by Barrios while initially watching Conor Gallagher, with the Spaniard subsequently being discussed as a strong long-term midfield fit.
Man United did not need PSG to enter the race
For United, PSG entering the race changes the economics of the deal.
Barrios was already going to be expensive because of Atlético’s strong contractual position. Adding a wealthy rival with Champions League ambitions and a Spanish coach who knows the player’s profile well could push the eventual price even higher.
That is particularly problematic for United because midfield is only one of several areas requiring investment. The club are also planning defensive and attacking additions, so spending an enormous fee on Barrios would reduce flexibility elsewhere.
Stylistically, he makes sense. United need more control in central areas, and Barrios offers the kind of two-way midfield presence they have often lacked. But this is no longer a straightforward recruitment opportunity.
If PSG move aggressively, United may have to decide whether Barrios is genuinely worth a premium fee or whether they should redirect their resources towards more attainable targets.
Bruno Fernandes has clear preference on next move if he leaves Man United
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Just in: Liverpool ready to open talks over deal for experienced defender
Liverpool are preparing to discuss a new contract with Virgil van Dijk as the club look to keep their captain at Anfield beyond the end of the 2026/27 season.
The 35-year-old’s current deal expires next June, creating an important decision for both player and club.
Despite his age, Van Dijk remains central to Andoni Iraola’s defence and has played every minute of Liverpool’s Premier League campaign so far.
TEAMtalk says new Van Dijk deal is being considered
According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are open to extending Van Dijk’s stay, with a 12-month contract plus possible options among the structures under consideration.
There is no immediate rush to complete negotiations, but Liverpool want the Netherlands international to understand that they still view him as an important part of their plans.
Van Dijk is also settled at Anfield and remains open-minded about continuing his stay.
One issue could be wages. Van Dijk remains among Europe’s highest-paid defenders, and TEAMtalk reports that some adjustment may be required if a new agreement is reached.
His leadership is nevertheless considered especially valuable as younger defenders such as Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni develop around him.
The development represents a change from earlier reporting. Liverpool planned to wait until 2027 before making a final decision, allowing them to assess Van Dijk’s performances, fitness and long-term role first.
Keeping Van Dijk for another year makes sense for Liverpool
Liverpool still need to plan for life after Van Dijk, but that does not mean they should rush his departure.
His experience, leadership and organisational ability remain extremely difficult to replace immediately. Keeping him for another season would allow Liverpool to introduce his eventual successor gradually rather than forcing a new signing to assume that responsibility straight away.
The club are already monitoring younger centre-backs and also working on Ronald Araújo’s permanent future, so extending Van Dijk would not prevent the defensive rebuild.
A short-term agreement therefore looks like the ideal compromise. Van Dijk would remain the leader of the defence while Liverpool continue preparing the next generation behind him.
At 35, a lengthy contract would carry obvious risk. But based on his current importance, another 12 months at Anfield could benefit everyone involved.
Liverpool and Man United to battle for top young player who is likely to move next summer
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