8 godzin temu
Manchester United head into Sunday's clash against Liverpool with plenty of off-field drama overshadowing their recent mixed form. Despite their mid-table position, Ruben Amorim's side enter the Anfield encounter in better shape than their struggling hosts.
The Red Devils secured a 2-0 victory over Sunderland in their last outing and beat Chelsea two weeks prior, sandwiched around a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Brentford. Liverpool have endured three consecutive defeats under Arne Slot, desperately needing to reignite their Premier League title charge.
Rooney hits back at Rashford
Wayne Rooney has delivered a stinging response to Marcus Rashford's recent comments about Manchester United's "inconsistent environment" contributing to his poor performances. The former United striker rejected his former teammate's explanation for falling out of favour under Amorim.
"I think the environment hasn't been right but that is down to yourself," Rooney said on his Wayne Rooney Show. "If you are not playing well or you get left out of the team then I think it is easier to blame the environment and whether that is right or wrong."
Rooney added that poor performances stem from individual application rather than external factors. "In games we have seen with him where we know he can do more, we know he can run more - that is nothing to do with an environment," he explained.
Amorim addresses pressure
Ruben Amorim has responded to Sir Jim Ratcliffe's public backing, which included a commitment to give the Portuguese coach three years to prove himself. The United boss expressed gratitude while emphasising his focus remains on immediate results rather than long-term assurances.
"I know and Jim knows that football is not like that," Amorim explained. "The most important thing is the next game. You cannot control the next day in football so I know that but it is really good to hear that also because of the noise."
The former Sporting Lisbon manager revealed the pressure he places on himself often exceeds external expectations. "Sometimes the pressure I put on myself and the team is often so much bigger than them," he admitted.
Transfer maneuvering continues
Bryan Mbeumo is reportedly working behind the scenes to convince Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba to join Manchester United. According to The Sun, the Cameroon internationals have been spending increased time together on national duty.
United made a failed attempt to sign the £100 million-rated Baleba during the summer transfer window. Brighton chairman Tony Bloom confirmed interest from United but stated they told the club Baleba "wasn't available this summer".
Mbeumo has reportedly adopted a "big brother" role with Baleba, sharing insights about playing for a prestigious club like United. Whether this influence will impact future transfer negotiations remains uncertain.
Sources used: "Mirror", "Manchester Evening News", "Daily Star", "The Sun" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
