Michael Carrick failed to welcome a new signing at Manchester United during the transfer window but the Red Devils remain on course following a dramatic late victory over Fulham
Manchester United decided against making any first-team signings with the January transfer window now shut. However, caretaker manager Michael Carrick has secured victory in his opening three fixtures at the helm.
Following a summer that saw them bring in players like Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, United chose not to spend any money during the winter window. These signings were made for head coach Ruben Amorim, but he was sacked in January following a 14-month tenure in charge.
Carrick has taken over as caretaker boss and following victories over Manchester City and Arsenal, his team secured a dramatic 3-2 triumph against Fulham to maintain their perfect start under his guidance. Meanwhile, loanee Marcus Rashford continues to impress at Barcelona, with reports suggesting a decision has been reached about his future.
JOIN US ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
The England international has suffered a setback off the pitch after being overlooked by a United legend. Here, the Daily Star Sport looks at the latest news from Old Trafford.
Marcus Rashford overlooked
Rashford moved to Barcelona during the summer and has made a significant impression under Hansi Flick. He has netted 10 goals across all competitions.
Despite his productive loan spell, United legend Nani still believes Rashford doesn’t compare to one of his Barcelona teammates, Lamine Yamal. In a video shared on social media for Goal, Nani was tasked with comparing some of Europe’s top attacking talents.
Initially, the Portuguese legend was asked to pick between Barcelona’s Yamal and Chelsea prospect Estevao. He plumped for the former. Next up, Rashford and Bukayo Saka were presented to Nani for his judgement. He backed Rashford before making several additional choices.
In the subsequent round of selections, it was Rashford and teammate Yamal who were pitted against each other. At this point, Nani overlooked the United loanee and declared: “Right now? Lamine Yamal.”
In fairness to Rashford, the 39-year-old subsequently selected Yamal as his top pick from all the players he was asked about, stating: “He’s my type of player.”
Casemiro U-turn blocked
Back in January, Rashford’s teammate at his parent club Casemiro was the subject of a shock announcement. It was confirmed the Brazilian is poised to depart when his contract expires at the end of the season.
A farewell video was published last month with United making it crystal clear that the 33-year-old will not remain at the club beyond the summer. However, the Brazilian has shone in his recent outings.
Under Carrick’s guidance, Casemiro has appeared assured in midfield and bagged a goal and an assist in the victory over Fulham. Supporters have urged United to reverse their decision to release Casemiro, but Sky Sports reports they will not be changing course.
The report suggests that whilst supporters are questioning why United are allowing the Brazilian to depart, he ranks amongst the club’s highest earners, is approaching his 34th birthday, and United have established a long-term strategy for their midfield. All of these factors, according to the report, contribute to the club’s resolute position preventing any kind of reversal regarding Casemiro and the player staying at Old Trafford.