Carrick set to take over permanently
Manchester United have reached a broad agreement with Michael Carrick to become the permanent head coach. Work is ongoing to finalise the contracts, but the deal is in place. (2) (4) (6) (10) Carrick has steadied the ship since stepping in on an interim basis and the club are now ready to back him fully. An announcement could even come before the Nottingham Forest match. (4)
De Ligt goes under the knife
Matthijs de Ligt has undergone back surgery and will miss the 2026 World Cup. His injury layoff at United is now extended significantly, leaving a major hole in the defence. (1) No timeline has been given for his return, but this is a serious setback for a player who was expected to anchor the backline.
Mainoo: I nearly quit under Amorim
Kobbie Mainoo has revealed he seriously considered leaving Manchester United during Ruben Amorim's time in charge. "You consider all things," Mainoo said, describing the period as "difficult." (3) (12) The academy graduate is now firmly in the first-team picture, but fans will be stunned by how close it came to falling apart.
Mourinho wants Rashford at Madrid
Jose Mourinho is reportedly keen on reuniting with Marcus Rashford at Real Madrid. The prospect would leave Barcelona fuming, with the Spanish giants also tracking the United forward. (7) Still just a rumour, but the Mourinho connection makes this one worth watching.
Fernandes: I wish we'd signed Rice
Bruno Fernandes has admitted he admires Declan Rice and wishes Manchester United had beaten Arsenal to his signature. "I admire him," Fernandes said, reflecting on what could have been. (8) Rice joined Arsenal in 2023 and has become one of the league's standout midfielders.
Scouting notebook
United are showing interest in Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis, who is being lined up for a record-breaking sale from the Belgian Pro League. (5) Separately, United are reportedly favourites to sign a £50m attacker who has "exploded" this season, though the player remains unnamed. Liverpool and Nottingham Forest are also in the mix. (9)
Fan reactions
The Carrick news has dominated the discussion on Reddit, with supporters largely positive about the move. Many see it as a reward for the stability he has brought since taking over, and the Ornstein confirmation has given it real weight. Join the conversation