by Silas Boahene | Sep 6, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Liverpool legend Graeme Souness has voiced concerns about Manchester United’s young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, stating that the 19-year-old is not yet ready to take on a regular starting role for the club. Souness believes it’s premature to expect Mainoo to carry United’s midfield, despite his promising performances since breaking into the first team last season.
Mainoo, who scored the winning goal in the FA Cup final and started in England’s Euro 2024 final against Spain, has been widely praised. However, Souness cautioned against putting too much pressure on the youngster, suggesting he should be gradually integrated into the team through a rotational system.
Mainoo’s start to the current season has been tough, with Manchester United losing three of the four matches he has played, including a 3-0 defeat to Liverpool. As United work to turn their season around, Souness believes that careful management of Mainoo’s development is essential for the player’s growth.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 22, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Manchester United are set to enter contract negotiations with 19-year-old midfielder Kobbie Mainoo once the transfer window closes, according to Sky Sports. The club plans to reward Mainoo for his standout performances this season with an updated contract.
Mainoo, who currently has a long-term deal running until 2027 with an option for an additional year, is set to see his contract adjusted to reflect his growing importance to the team. His representatives are optimistic, noting that his current deal includes performance-related pay increases that acknowledge his development and contributions.
United aims to build their midfield around Mainoo and is also seeking a complementary player, with Manuel Ugarte being a primary target. Mainoo’s recent call-up to the England squad and his role in England’s Euro 2024 campaign, where they finished as runners-up, highlight his rising profile and the club’s commitment to his growth.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 13, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian youngster Fatawu Ganiwu featured for Chelsea’s U18 team on Saturday in a match against Manchester United U18s as part of his ongoing trial with the club. The 16-year-old midfielder has been training with Chelsea’s youth squad, having previously impressed in trials with RC Lens and RB Leipzig.
Ganiwu caught the attention of Chelsea’s coaching staff with a strong performance in a recent friendly against Sheffield United, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Following his involvement with the U18 team, Ganiwu had the chance to watch Chelsea’s first team in action against Inter Milan on Sunday.
Chelsea is considering a potential move for Ganiwu, with co-director of recruitment and talent Joe Shields overseeing the trial process. If successful, the young midfielder could earn a deal with the Premier League club. Another Ghanaian prospect, Vincent Mobilla, is also on trial with Chelsea, as both players aim to secure a move to the English giants and advance their budding careers.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Aug 6, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo has revealed that he accepted a pay cut to join Manchester United on loan in 2020. At the time playing for Shanghai Shenhua, Ighalo received a late-night call from his agent informing him of United’s interest. Determined to make the move happen, Ighalo spent the entire night negotiating and finalizing the deal, despite other offers on the table. He insisted on joining United, even at the cost of a significant salary reduction, emphasizing that playing for the club was his top priority.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 3, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Manchester United is reportedly eager to secure the services of Victor Osimhen from Napoli this summer.
The 25-year-old Nigerian striker has attracted interest from several clubs, including Chelsea, but according to CalcioNapoli24, Manchester United has entered the fray with a proposal involving both cash and player exchange.
United has put forward a deal that includes offering Rasmus Hojlund as part of the package to acquire Osimhen. Hojlund, who joined United last season and impressed during his debut campaign, is seen as a promising talent with a bright future at the club.
The potential departure of Hojlund would come as a surprise given his early impact, but acquiring Osimhen could significantly bolster United’s attacking prowess. Osimhen, known for his prolific scoring ability, contributed 17 goals across all competitions for Napoli last season and played a crucial role in their Serie A success in 2022/23.
As United seeks to strengthen their forward line, Osimhen’s proven track record in Italian football and potential move to the Premier League could offer an enticing new challenge for the Nigerian international.
Negotiations between Manchester United and Napoli are ongoing, with the Red Devils hoping their proposal will persuade Napoli to part ways with Osimhen this transfer window.
