FOOTBALL

United Linked With January Move for Ruben Neves Under Carrick

Ruben Neves
January 2026

United are reported to be accelerating a move for Neves, valued around £20m, to strengthen midfield immediately. The club view midfield control as a core weakness and see Neves as a longer-term fit even under an interim, with funds ready to deploy quickly if conditions allow.

Klopp Distances Himself From Real Madrid Job Tal

Jurgen Klopp
January 2026

Klopp said he was genuinely surprised by Madrid’s decision and rejected any suggestion he is a candidate to replace Alonso. He framed the sacking as proof of extreme expectations and short time horizons at Madrid, saying the situation did not trigger any desire to return to management.

Sol Campbell Says Spurs Could Sound Out Amorim Amid Frank Pressure

Ruben Amorim
January 2026

Campbell claimed Tottenham are likely discussing Amorim as a potential successor if results do not improve under Frank. He argued Spurs are a “different animal” than Brentford, with higher demands; strong performances are now required to calm pressure while the club quietly evaluates alternatives.

Carrick Set to Be Named United Interim, New Staff Incoming

Michael Carrick
January 2026

United plan a revamped coaching group under interim boss Carrick, adding Holland as assistant and Woodgate as coach, plus Evans returning to the setup and Binnion promoted internally. Carrick moved quickly after winning the interim race to assemble a backroom team combining national-team experience, Premier League pedigree, and club links ahead of Saturday’s Manchester derby.

Mbappe Breaks Silence After Alonso Exit, Clash Claims Surface

Kylian Mbappe
January 2026

Mbappe publicly thanked Alonso and wished him well after an eight-month spell ended; reports claim Mbappe argued with Alonso over tactics and Mbappe ignored a post-match guard-of-honour instruction. Pressure built from inconsistent results and the 3-2 Super Cup defeat; Alonso left by “mutual agreement” and Arbeloa took over as caretaker, with fallout rumours pointing to dressing-room and boardroom friction.

Spurs Threaten to Beat Villa to Conor Gallagher Deal

Conor Gallagher
January 2026

Tottenham are reportedly positioned to hijack Aston Villa’s move for Gallagher, who may return to the Premier League after limited starts at Atletico this season. Despite strong first-season adaptation and Simeone praise, Gallagher’s reduced role has opened the door; Spurs and Villa both want midfield depth and could act quickly if Atletico entertain offers.

Rooney Open to United Assistant Role Under Carrick

Wayne Rooney
January 2026

Rooney said he would return to Manchester United as Carrick’s assistant if asked, calling it a “no-brainer.” He argued United need staff who understand the club’s culture and identity, claiming recent external hires have not restored the “family feel,” and ex-players could help reset standards and spirit.

Alonso Sacked at Real Madrid as Mendieta Questions Fit

Xabi Alonso
January 2026

Real Madrid ended Alonso’s tenure by “mutual agreement” and installed Arbeloa as interim; Mendieta said Alonso’s high-press approach was never going to work at Madrid. Mendieta argued Madrid historically do not sustain compact, high-press defending across matches, so Alonso’s Leverkusen-style system failed to translate and the team “broke” during games.

Moritz Wagner Returns After ACL as Magic Head to Europe Games

Moritz Wagner
January 2026

Moritz Wagner played his first NBA game in over a year after ACL recovery, as Orlando travels to play Memphis in Berlin and London; Franz hopes to return from a high ankle sprain by Berlin. Moritz tore his ACL in December 2024 and returned with a short cameo; the team then flew to Europe for two showcase games aimed at growing German basketball exposure.

Mertesacker to Step Down as Arsenal Academy Manager

Per Mertesacker
January 2026

Arsenal confirmed Mertesacker will leave his role as academy manager after eight years, ending a tenure that helped shape multiple first-team graduates. He cited a desire for a new professional challenge, will remain through the season to support continuity, and plans to help ensure a smooth handover before departing.