Directors Bryan Glazer, Kevin Glazer, Edward Glazer, Darcie Glazer Kassewitz, Michael Edelson, Sir Alex Ferguson, David Gill CBE, Sir Dave Brailsford, Jean-Claude Blanc
Secretary Rebecca Britain
Honorary president Martin Edwards
CONTACTS
For the majority of club enquiries, please phone the main switchboard number on 0161 676 7770, where you will be given a series of options.
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+44 845 230 1989
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MANCHESTER
UNITED FOOTBALL CLUB
Official Manchester United Yearbook 2023/24
Editor Charlie Ghagan
Sub-editor Sean Mullan
Art editor Anthony Moore
Cover design Michael Webb
Contributors Ben Ashby, Steve Bartram, Charlie Bentley, Adam Bostock, Matt Brown, Sam Carney, Paul Davies, Joe Ganley, Courtney Hill, Zoe Hodges, Matt Holt, Adam Marshall, Ian McLeish, Joe Nelson, Mikey Partington, Harry Robinson, Isaac Stronge, James Tuck, Helen Rowe-Willcocks, Jamie Spencer, Nathan Thomas
Thanks to Steve Bennett, Colin Carter, Charlotte Clarke, Ben Davies, Ellie Decrop, Amanda Goodwin, Sophie Jenkin, Michael Leneghan, Felicia Loh, Clare Nicholas, Andrew Ward, Nicola Wellington
Thanks also to all the clubs who kindly granted permission in allowing their official crests to be used in this publication.
Photography
Ash Donelon, John Peters, Matt Peters, Charlotte Tattersall (all Manchester United FC); Alamy, Getty Images
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner and the publishers.
United 2022/23 Yearbook
DAN ASHWORTH
Before we look back on 2023/24, our sporting director welcomes the dawn of a new era...
This is one of my first opportunities to address Manchester United fans since joining the club as sporting director on 1 July, so I want to start by saying how delighted I am to be here.
Although I grew up in Norfolk, I’ve always had a strong attachment with Manchester because my mum and dad were born in Middleton and my grandparents lived their whole lives there.
When I visited as a boy, my dad would take me to games across Greater Manchester and I remember the thrill of my first visit to Old Trafford in the late 1970s, watching the likes of Lou Macari, Jimmy Nicholl and Arthur Albiston.
I can’t claim to have been a partisan United fan – my dad enjoyed watching all the local teams – but I remember the special buzz that always seemed to surround games at Old Trafford, and it’s something I have experienced many times since during my career in football. So it’s going to be an incredibly proud moment entering the directors’ box on the home side for the first time when the Premier League season gets under way against Fulham on August 16.
The close season is always a reset moment for every club, but the sense of renewal has been particularly strong at Manchester United this summer as our new leadership structure takes shape.
Omar Berrada has started as chief executive, and Jason Wilcox as technical director, and I can assure you that we have lost no time in getting to work. Our first
big decision of the summer was to extend Erik ten Hag’s contract as men’s first-team manager to June 2026, reflecting our strong belief in him as one of Europe’s top coaches, and the partner we want to continue working with to get the team back to the levels expected.
We are all clear that last season fell below the required standards in the Premier League and Champions League but, by winning the FA Cup in such impressive fashion, our players and staff showed what they are capable of when everyone pulls together and performs to their potential. Our collective challenge is to reach those levels much more consistently. It’s my job, together with Jason, to create
the right support structures and environment around Erik, the staff and players to make that possible.
Already, I can feel a strong sense of energy and determination around the group, as the players and staff return fresh from their breaks, including some exciting new additions to the squad, and to the coaching team. There are also changes to the physical environment at Carrington as work commences on our season-long £50 million redevelopment of the training ground – evidence of our commitment to improving the club’s infrastructure. This will require some adaptation this season, but all our teams – men’s,
The Reds were back in the pre-season spotlight on 15 July, with 21 players – including a number of Academy talents – getting valuable minutes in Trondheim, Norway
“ OUR FIRST BIG DECISION WAS TO EXTEND ERIK TEN HAG’S CONTRACT TO 2026, REFLECTING OUR STRONG BELIEF IN HIM AS ONE OF EUROPE’S TOP COACHES”
women’s and Academy – will maintain access to high-quality facilities, with the promise of a fully refreshed, world-class site once the project is completed.
Delivering a successful women’s team and a thriving, productive Academy are both key objectives of my job, and I have a strong background in both areas. Women’s football was an important part of my remit in past roles with Newcastle United, Brighton & Hove Albion and the FA, and it will be the same at Manchester United.
Women’s football is arguably the most exciting area of growth in the global game, and we want to be part of that. Last season’s FA Cup win was a fantastic landmark as our
first major women’s trophy, and now we want to build on that with Marc, his staff and the players.
Youth development has also been a huge part of my career and I see it as a crucial element of success for any football club – but especially for Manchester United where homegrown players have such a rich history. The success of our Under-18s during the 2023/24 campaign bodes well for the next generation of men’s talent coming through, and the same is true on the women’s side, with both our Under-21s and Under-16s finishing the season with trophies.
Overall, my first impression is the scale of opportunity available to us at Manchester United as we review
Above: “Women’s football is arguably the most exciting area of growth in the global game, and we want to be part of that,” says Ashworth
Left: Manager Erik ten Hag with his first signing of the summer, Netherlands international forward Joshua Zirkzee
Below: Technical director Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada have had a busy summer in their new roles
and refresh all areas of the club. This remains one of the biggest football clubs in the world, but that is not our measure of success; the focus is on getting back to being among the best on the pitch. It won’t happen overnight, but, together with Omar and his new leadership team, we will not rest until we have achieved it.
OH, WHAT A MONTH!
May 2024 was quite a time for the club we love, with silverware to savour for our men, women and respective Academy teams...
WATCH!
SATURDAY 25 MAY 2024
Erik ten Hag’s charges went into the 143rd FA Cup final as big underdogs against Double-chasing Manchester City, but how the Reds defied the odds in defeating our cross-city rivals at Wembley. Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo grabbed the headlines thanks to their first-half goals to put us two-up, before the entire team held firm to fight off a City comeback after the break. Cue massive smiles and cheers of joy from the boss and players (above) as United lifted the Cup for a 13th time.
ERIK TEN HAG’S REDS WIN THE 2024 FA CUP!
SUNDAY 12 MAY 2024
Just under two weeks prior to the men’s final, 76,082 fans were at the same stadium to witness a slice of history: a first major trophy for Manchester United Women, to go alongside the second-tier success of 2018/19. Unlike our men, Marc Skinner’s Reds were the favourites to lift the trophy, and how they stepped up to the task in hand, putting four past Tottenham without reply. On the back of a mixed campaign in the WSL, it made for a perfect ending to 2023/24, which Skinner (bottom) enjoyed just as much the players on a glorious day at the national stadium.
TUESDAY 14 MAY 2024
Two days later, and only nine miles down the road from Wembley at Stamford Bridge, our U18s faced Chelsea for the right to be crowned Premier League National champions, and once again we’d thrive on the big stage to take the trophy. Ethan Williams scored one and set up another – for namesake Wheatley –in a 2-1 win, adding to the triumphs in the Northern U18 League (which took us to the National final), as well as U18 Premier League Cup final. No wonder lead coach Adam Lawrence (above, right of picture) is so certain that the future looks very bright for these young talents, such as captain Finley McAllister and Louis Jackson (top picture).
WEDNESDAY 1 MAY 2024
A remarkable, trophy-laden month was all kicked off by the United Women Academy, who much like their counterparts in the men’s Academy, followed up on their Northern League title by beating the southern champions for the honour of being national champions. The Reds, lining up in our dark green away kit, faced Arsenal, with the game played in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire. Amelia Oldroyd, Tamira Livingston and Megan Sofield all netted in a 3-1 win on a proud occasion for recently appointed lead coach Melissa Brown (bottom), with the trio of goalscorers equally keen to get their hands on the silverware (below). Congratulations, girls, and to all our champions throughout May 2024 – a month that will live long in the memory!
“WHILE WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT BRILLIANT DAY AT WEMBLEY IN MAY, AGAINST A TOP OPPONENT, WE CANNOT BE FULLY SATISFIED WITH LAST SEASON”
ERIK TEN HAG
This manager says last term proved his team’s strength of character – providing a strong platform for the future
When I first arrived at Manchester United, my main aim was very simple: win trophies. This club had gone six years without winning one, which is too long for a club of this stature and ambitions. So, to have now won two in two seasons is something we can be proud of, particularly the way we won the FA Cup in May, in such convincing fashion against a top opponent. However, while we will always remember that brilliant day at Wembley, we cannot be fully satisfied with last season because, in the Premier League and the Champions League, we fell well short of our objectives. The 2023/24 campaign provided us, as a club, with many
ups and downs. Off the field, we had immense sadness in saying goodbye to the late, great Sir Bobby Charlton, who was such an emblem for everything great about United.
On the field, there were many memorable occasions when we showed our capabilities, either with big performances or moments of brilliance, but we were unable to put together the consistency required to build on the previous campaign in the league and Europe.
I have never before experienced a season with so much bad luck, mainly in terms of the injuries we had to endure, and I believe that if we had enjoyed better fortune with player availability then we would have been able to build more momentum and finish further up the Premier League table.
Having endured such a tough few months, it would have been easy for us to lie down in the final weeks of the season and just wait for it to end. Instead, we showed our spirit, pulled ourselves back to our feet, finished the Premier League season strongly and went to Wembley confident in what we could achieve. Against Manchester City that afternoon, we showed the best of ourselves in every respect and deservedly regained the FA Cup for the 13th time in our history.
It was fitting that we should do it in a very Manchester United way: playing fast, attractive, proactive football, winning with goals from top talents who have come through our youth system and, most importantly, bringing joy to our fans. After all the ups and downs we went through together last season, it meant so much to us all to be able to repay our supporters with the kind of success they deserve.
Of course, I knew all about United supporters even before I arrived here in England, but over the last
“ I KNEW ALL ABOUT UNITED SUPPORTERS BEFORE ARRIVING IN ENGLAND BUT I’VE COME TO SEE YOU TRULY ARE THE BEST IN THE WORLD”
two years I have come to see that you truly are the best in the world. The support we receive isn’t just in big games or when we’re winning trophies; nobody involved with the club will ever forget the unbelievable backing we received last term after producing our worst performance of the season at Selhurst Park.
That unconditional support is very humbling, and it was a huge source of motivation at Wembley because every player in the squad was determined to give our fans something to celebrate after such a long, hard season.
Now, we are once again looking to the future together. With a new ownership structure in place I can speak for everyone at the club when I say that there are exciting times ahead.
That much is clear to see behind the scenes at Carrington, where work has started on the redevelopment of our main building to ensure that our facilities remain among the best in the world. I am very pleased that Dan Ashworth and Jason Wilcox are now in place as sporting director and technical director, and we are already working together very well as a team on our plans for 2024/25 and beyond. With Rene Hake and Ruud van Nistelrooy also coming in as my new assistants, you can feel the sense of fresh energy around the club.
WATCH
A VERY SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO SIR
While 2023/24 was a difficult season, I believe it will prove to be a key chapter of our development as a group. There are lessons to be taken from every training session, every game and every season, and the onus now is on us to show that we have learnt from everything last year taught us. We repeatedly showed our strength of character in the face of a lot of challenges and, while we came under huge pressure throughout the whole season – as is always the case at this club – we came through it to win another trophy and qualify for European competition. Now we have to build on that.
There are some very exciting young talents in our squad, as well
as those with priceless experience and those who are in their physical prime. I think we have a strong blend of age profiles and talents in the group, and hopefully we can strengthen the squad further over the summer. We know there is still a long way to go in this project, but we have shown that, when we follow a good plan, give our all, work as one and harness the power of our amazing supporters, there is no limit to what we can achieve together.
In October, we all said goodbye to Sir Bobby
BOBBY CHARLTON
Once again, it was a season of passionate support from our dedicated fans in the stands, even in the face of a defeat
MATCH REPORTS
From our Old Trafford home in mid-August, to the iconic arch of Wembley Stadium in late May, via 24 other destinations along the way, here’s the game-by-game recollection of the 2023/24 campaign for Erik ten Hag’s Reds...
AUGUST
There are many new faces at Old Trafford as the Reds kick off ’23/24 with two wins from three – including a thrilling fightback victory against Forest...
After a busy summer of ins and outs, alongside eight pre-season fixtures, Monday 14 August brought the return of competitive action for Erik ten Hag’s Reds.
Before the big kick-off, Rasmus Hojlund completed a move at the start of the month, joining Mason Mount, Andre Onana and the
returning Jonny Evans, while Altay Bayindir would later complete the arrivals in early September, alongside loanees Sofyan Amrabat and Sergio Reguilon.
On the pitch, it was a mixed start in the league. Raphael Varane’s header earned a hard-fought home win against Wolves, before a
GOAL OF THE MONTH CASEMIRO V NOTTM FOREST
A brilliantly worked free-kick saw the Brazilian level the scoring just after half-time at Old Trafford.
With United trailing, Fernandes was fouled in an attacking area on the right flank and, when he got up to take the set-piece, there were
initial murmurs from the crowd when our captain opted not to deliver the ball into the box. Instead, he played a square pass to Rashford, who picked out Bruno’s run beyond the defence, and the Portuguese playmaker headed the ball across the goal for Casemiro to convert, rounding off a superb team move.
frustrating 2-0 defeat at Tottenham. It looked as though there may be more disappointment at home to Nottingham Forest, as the visitors took a shock 2-0 lead. But, in thrilling fashion, goals from Christian Eriksen, Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes earned a comeback win. Ten Hag’s men finished the month in eighth
PLAYER OF THE MONTH BRUNO FERNANDES
The captain led from the front in August. It was his inventive pass that got Wan-Bissaka in behind a stern Wolves defence to set up Varane’s winner, before he played a key role in our comeback win over Forest.
place, but only three points behind leaders Manchester City.
Arsenal claimed the first trophy of the season, beating City on penalties in the Community Shield (right), with Leandro Trossard netting a late, late leveller to cancel out an effort from Cole Palmer, who’d go on to enjoy a breakout year at Chelsea.
City were, however, the only team to win all three of their opening league fixtures, closely followed by West Ham, Spurs, Liverpool and the Gunners, each on seven points. At the bottom end, Sheffield United, Burnley, Luton and Everton were all stuck on zero, and it would be an ominous indicator of things to come for the newly promoted trio.
The Hatters were back in the top flight for the first time since 1992, just 10 years after playing non-league football, while the Clarets and Blades returned after one and two-season absences respectively, but the trio lost all seven of their combined August games, scoring only four goals while conceding 18.
As ever in the Premier League, managerial changes can spring up out of nowhere, and just six days before their first outing against the Reds, Wolves parted company with Julen Lopetegui by mutual consent, replacing him with Gary O’Neil.
The biggest win of the opening month came at St James’ Park, as Newcastle triumphed 5-1 against Aston Villa. Despite the result, it was none other than Sir Alex Ferguson himself who noted Unai Emery’s Villa as the most impressive early performers – an observation he would be vindicated in making come the close of the campaign…
Another new season starts as Old Trafford eagerly awaits kick-off against Wolves
UNITED 1
Varane 76
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 0
Varane’s the hero on opening-day home victory
United made a winning start to 2023/24, beating Wolves 1-0 at Old Trafford thanks to Raphael Varane’s second-half header in our Premier League opener.
United’s first sight on goal came as Antony’s pace in behind allowed Marcus Rashford to dart through, only for the latter to be thwarted by outstretched goalkeeper Jose Sa.
Wolves’ Matheus Cunha proved a handful shortly after, powering past challenges from Casemiro and Lisandro Martinez to tee up Pablo Sarabia on the left. His shot flashed just wide of the post, as the visitors gave a warning sign.
Home shouts for a penalty were turned down before the interval as Aaron Wan-Bissaka drove forward down the right before picking out Rashford, whose header struck the arm
WAN-BISSAKA SENT A MEASURED BALL TOWARDS THE FAR POST, NODDED IN BY VARANE
of Nelson Semedo down by his side. Cunha then hit Andre Onana’s post after the break and United’s debutant keeper soon made a fine save to deny the same player after he had decided to go it alone and charged through the midfield.
Alejandro Garnacho lifted the Stretford End to its feet with neat work as time ticked on, shooting after cries from the crowd, only to miss the target. Cunha then again created a Wolves chance that fell to Pedro Neto, with Onana coming to the Reds’ rescue once more.
United went in front with 14 minutes left. After being played into space by a clever Bruno Fernandes chip, Wan-Bissaka sent a measured ball towards the far post, which was nodded in by Varane.
Onana still had work to do, twice denying Fabio Silva, with the second of his saves particularly impressive, after the ball landed at the striker’s feet inside our six-yard box.
The visitors also had strong claims for a penalty waved away deep into stoppage time after Onana collided with Sasa Kalajdzic, but the points would go to the hosts.
MAN OF THE MATCH ANDRE ONANA
POST-MATCH
LEAGUE TABLE DID YOU KNOW?
United started the Premier League season with victory for the 21st time in 32 campaigns – a win rate of 65.6 per cent.
A clean sheet on his debut from the Cameroonian, who fended off all six shots on target against him, while impressing with his distribution – although his challenge on Kalajdzic had much of the crowd holding its collective breath.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 2
UNITED 0
Spurs’ second-half double downs visiting Reds
United’s maiden away fixture of the season resulted in a first defeat, as Tottenham recovered from being second best before the break to win 2-0 with a strike from Pape Sarr and Lisandro Martinez’s own goal.
Erik ten Hag said before the game that he expected to see a more attacking Spurs under their new manager Ange Postecoglou, but it was actually United who began on the front foot. Antony and Alejandro Garnacho provided menace from the flanks and Guglielmo Vicario had to stick out a strong hand to deny Marcus Rashford.
Moments later, Rashford directed a header from Bruno Fernandes’s rabona pass over the bar, while Andre Onana was called into action at the other end by Dejan Kulusevski’s drilled low shot.
United were left bewildered when a VAR check didn’t yield a penalty after Cristian Romero blocked Garnacho’s next attempt with his raised hands, before Varane’s header was tipped over by Vicario.
Spurs went on to hit the woodwork twice before the first half was out,
Pedro Porro smashing a long-ranger against the bar and Sarr’s follow-up deflecting off Luke Shaw on to the post. Sarr had earlier been thwarted by Onana’s best save of the first 45.
The hosts came out brighter after the break and were rewarded four minutes later. Kulusevski’s cutback from the right enjoyed a kind deflection to spin into the path of Sarr, who steamed into the six-yard box and scored on the half-volley.
Onana then denied Destiny Udogie as Spurs threatened to double their lead.
At the other end, Vicario was well beaten when Antony cannoned a shot off the post, but the Italian goalkeeper then produced a world-class save to push Casemiro’s header over the bar.
But Tottenham remained in the ascendancy and Heung-min Son looked certain to score until Shaw superbly blocked his effort.
Substitutes Ivan Perisic and Ben Davies eventually combined for the home side’s killer second goal, the former’s cross flicked on by the latter and taking a last touch off Martinez to land in the net.
SUBS USED: Davies for Udogie 70 • Perisic for Richarlison 70 • Hojbjerg for Sarr 76 • Solomon for Kulusevski 88 • Royal for Porro 88 YELLOW CARDS: Udogie
SUBS USED: Eriksen for Antony 66 • Sancho for Garnacho 66 • Dalot for Wan-Bissaka 66
UNITED 3
Eriksen 17, Casemiro 52, Fernandes 76 pen
NOTTINGHAM FOREST 2
Awoniyi 2, Boly 4
Fernandes puts seal on stirring comeback win
United did it the hard way against Nottingham Forest, recovering from the shock of two early opposition goals to battle back for a precious 3-2 win.
Antony worked goalkeeper Matt Turner in the first minute but Old Trafford was rocked moments later when Taiwo Awoniyi was sent clean through on the United goal, before the Nigerian tucked the ball beyond Andre Onana.
It went from bad to worse minutes later when Morgan Gibbs-White’s free-kick from the right appeared to just hit Willy Boly and bounce past Onana en route to the net, much to the delight of those in the away end.
As the hosts looked for a way back, Turner pushed away a shot from Bruno Fernandes. Anthony Martial was alert to collect the rebound and find Rashford, whose driven cross was flicked in by Christian Eriksen to half the deficit.
Casemiro then forced another stop out of Turner before missing a big chance to level when heading off
DID YOU KNOW?
This was the 13th different Premier League game in which United came from two or more goals behind to win.
target from a Fernandes corner. Forest weathered the storm to regain some control and could have extended their lead in first-half stoppage time when Gibbs-White’s shot struck team-mate Awoniyi. But United took over after the restart and Fernandes produced a moment of magic in the 52nd minute. His free-kick was surprisingly played out to Rashford, who intelligently returned it to the skipper. An unselfish nod across to an unmarked Casemiro followed as the Brazilian rammed the ball home with his second touch to make it 2-2.
Forest’s Joe Worrall was shown a red card for denying a goalscoring opportunity in the 67th minute, having hauled down Fernandes.
It was Bruno who would have the final word with the winning goal, blasting home from the spot after Rashford was clumsily brought down by Danilo. The goal was met with a thunderous roar from the Old Trafford faithful and, despite a nervy finale, a second win of 2023/24 was secured in thrilling style.
MAN OF THE MATCH BRUNO FERNANDES
It was an eye-catching performance from the captain as he claimed his first goal (and assist) of the season, while showing plenty of energy and firm tackling to help inspire the Reds to a comeback victory on home soil.
SEPTEMBER
Mixed results on the pitch for the Reds, as the Premier League campaign gathers pace and our Champions League and Carabao Cup journeys begin...
United played six games across three competitions during September, in what proved to be a tough month results-wise.
The Reds looked set to bring home a point from a visit to face Arsenal, having taken the lead through Marcus Rashford, before two late goals gave the victory to the
hosts. This was followed by another defeat by the same 3-1 scoreline, this time at home to Brighton.
In Europe, the Champions League began with a considerable challenge away to Bayern Munich, and while Rasmus Hojlund got off the mark for his new club, it wasn’t enough as the German side held on to triumph 4-3.
GOAL OF THE MONTH BRUNO FERNANDES V BURNLEY
Fernandes has scored plenty of memorable goals since arriving at Old Trafford in January 2020, but he’s perhaps struck none sweeter than this early-season volley at Turf Moor. Bruno watched Jonny Evans’s perfectly flighted long
pass forward right up to the moment it connected with his right boot, as he produced a stunning first-time hit back across the goal and into the bottom corner. The strike turned out to be the game’s decisive moment and was an effort that Bruno has since labelled as his best in a United shirt.
A win was needed to turn the tide, and it arrived at Turf Moor, where Bruno Fernandes expertly volleyed in an inch-perfect lofted pass from Jonny Evans – making his first United start since March 2015. It was enough to earn all three points and the Reds’ first away success of the season.
PLAYER OF THE MONTH CASEMIRO
Casemiro featured in all six games as our season properly kicked into gear. After scoring two at Bayern, he claimed a goal and an assist as our Carabao Cup defence began, earning him 70 per cent of the fan vote.
Our defence of the Carabao Cup began next, and it did so with the most accomplished display of the season so far, as Alejandro Garnacho, Casemiro and Anthony Martial all found the net to brush aside the challenge of Crystal Palace.
However, there was more frustration when the sides met again at Old Trafford in the Premier League four days later, as this time the visitors left with a 1-0 win, a result that left United 10th in the table.
Manchester City still led the way, but suffered their first defeat in the final outing of September, going down 2-1 at Wolves. Behind them were Tottenham and Arsenal, the only two remaining unbeaten sides.
Spurs in particular were enjoying a resurgence under new boss Ange Postecoglou (right), but were also the beneficiaries of one of the most-discussed – and controversial – refereeing decisions of the season, when VAR failed to intervene after a legitimate opposition goal was ruled out during their win over Liverpool.
Newcastle caught they eye with another big win, as eight different scorers were on target during their 8-0 victory away to Sheffield United. The Blades were rooted to the foot of the table as one of three teams still awaiting their first win, alongside Burnley and Bournemouth.
Luton claimed a first-ever Premier League victory as they beat fellow strugglers Everton 2-1 at Goodison Park, while big-spending Chelsea were having a tough time of it with just one point and no goals from three September games.
Celebrating a job well done as the Carabao Cup defence starts with victory over Crystal Palace
ARSENAL 3
Odegaard 28, Rice 90+6, Jesus 90+11
UNITED 1
Rashford 27
Late sting in the tail denies Reds in the capital
A brace of stoppage-time strikes undid United in north London as Arsenal snatched a last-gasp Premier League victory.
After an uneventful opening, the Gunners went close to breaking the deadlock when Kai Havertz miskicked a golden opportunity.
Despite the hosts being on top, some resilient United defending instead enabled Marcus Rashford to make the breakthrough for the Reds, against the run of play.
Christian Eriksen made an interception and threaded a perfect pass into our no.10’s path, before Rashford cut inside from his favoured left flank and slammed a right-footed shot past Aaron Ramsdale, via the inside of the right-hand post.
Arsenal produced their best move of the half to equalise instantly. Martin Odegaard, arriving at the edge of the area to meet Gabriel Martinelli’s cutback, flashed an effort in past Andre Onana.
United went close to regaining the lead in the 55th minute when Anthony Martial’s near-post shot was saved and Rashford’s rebound drive was blocked.
Arsenal thought they had the chance to go in front when they were awarded a penalty on the hour after Havertz took a tumble, but the decision was overturned after a consultation with VAR.
They should have taken the lead with 10 minutes of the regular 90 remaining, but Bukayo Saka hit a close-range shot straight at Onana.
The Reds seemed to have punished that miss when Casemiro’s incisive pass set Alejandro Garnacho free and the winger kept his cool to slot a low finish past Ramsdale. The flag stayed down, but VAR screens showed the young winger to be fractionally offside.
United woes were compounded in the sixth minute of stoppage time when Saka’s corner from the right found Declan Rice at the back post, and his shot found the net via a cruel deflection off Jonny Evans.
Pushing for an equaliser and what would have been a deserved point, the Reds instead were caught on the counter, conceding a third as Gabriel Jesus sprinted clear from the centre circle, checked inside past the challenge of Diogo Dalot, and rolled the ball into the far corner.
DID YOU KNOW?
Jonny Evans played his 199th United game more than eight years after his last Reds appearance – against Crystal Palace in May 2015.
ARSENAL SUBS USED: Tomiyasu for Zinchenko 76 • Jesus for Nketiah 76 • Vieira for Havertz 77 • Nelson for Martinelli 90 • Jorginho for Odegaard 90+9 YELLOW CARDS: Saka, Jesus UNITED SUBS USED: Maguire for Martinez 67 • Hojlund for Martial 67 • Garnacho for Antony 84 •
Rashford drives at Ben White on a day when our forward would open the scoring in north London
UNITED 1
Hannibal 73
BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION 3
Welbeck 20, Gross 53, Joao Pedro 71
Seagulls seal three points on tough afternoon
The return to action after the season’s first international break began in disappointing fashion as United were beaten 3-1 by Brighton in the Premier League.
Erik ten Hag’s men started the game with real intent and had a first sight of goal six minutes in, when a weaving Marcus Rashford was denied by Jason Steele. Rasmus Hojlund later couldn’t stretch far enough to connect with Rashford’s cross after a slick piece of play.
But for all United’s dominance, the Seagulls took the lead after 20 minutes, when Adam Lallana dummied Simon Adingra’s cross for onrushing ex-Red Danny Welbeck to sidefoot home.
Rashford’s deflected effort hit the outside of the post, before Hojlund thought he had levelled with his first Reds goal, only for a VAR intervention to decide Rashford had carried the ball millimetres over the dead-ball line before finding our no.11.
Chasing the game, the Reds returned from the interval hungry for an equaliser as Hojlund played
DID YOU KNOW?
Defeat ended the Reds’ 20-game unbeaten home run in the league, dating back to a 2-1 loss (also v Brighton) in 2022.
in Rashford, whose shot could only hit the side-netting.
Unfortunately, Brighton doubled their lead moments later through Pascal Gross. After Tariq Lamptey poked the ball into his path, the German fired low past Andre Onana.
Ten Hag turned to the bench in order to make a difference, with young Hannibal winning a free-kick immediately after his introduction, but Rashford’s effort was gathered comfortably by Steele.
Instead, it was at the other end where Brighton added a third, when substitute Joao Pedro beat beyond Onana with a composed finish to all but guarantee maximum points for the visiting side.
United gave the home support a sliver of hope as Hannibal rifled a speculative effort past Steele from distance for his first goal for the club – a moment the young Tunisia international enjoyed immensely.
But it sadly proved to be no more than consolation as the Reds suffered a first home league defeat since the opening day of 2022/23.
BAYERN MUNICH 4
Sane 28, Gnabry 32, Kane 53 pen, Tel 90+2
UNITED 3
Hojlund 49, Casemiro 88, 90+5
Goal-laden encounter ends in narrow Reds loss
A roller coaster tie in Bavaria produced seven goals and quite the spectacle but ultimately disappointment as United were beaten by Bayern Munich.
As had been the case against Brighton, the Reds started brightly and should have scored inside the opening few minutes, with Facundo Pellistri and Christian Eriksen both having sights of goal.
Bayern goalkeeper Sven Ulreich then saved from Marcus Rashford, although the hosts flexed their attacking muscle when Lisandro Martinez’s timely challenge thwarted Serge Gnabry.
The scoring was opened on 28 minutes, when Leroy Sane played a one-two with Harry Kane before his shot from the edge of the box crept out of Andre Onana’s grasp.
Soon afterwards, Jamal Musiala burst through and made the most of a fortunate bounce off Diogo Dalot to tee up an unmarked Gnabry to double the lead and leave the Reds with a mountain to climb.
Ten Hag’s men clawed a goal back four minutes after half-time to briefly raise the hopes of the travelling supporters. It was Rasmus Hojlund’s first for the club, with his
deflected effort rolling past Ulreich to spark passionate celebrations from the Danish centre-forward.
But it unfortunately did not prove to be a launchpad for a comeback, and at the other end Dayot Upamecano’s header from a corner struck Christian Eriksen’s hand, with a lengthy VAR review leading to a penalty that Kane tucked away.
Sane was denied by the base of a post in the 55th minute, while Onana kept out another Kane attempt.
Our stopper produced a further intervention to deny Sane, which he soon followed up with the save of the night as he kept out substitute Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting.
As the clock ticked down, United were given reason to hope. With two minutes left, Casemiro cleverly hooked the ball in despite being on the floor and appearing to be crowded out by Bayern defenders.
However, Bayern quickly went 4-2 up when Mathys Tel lofted high into the net just after Thomas Muller had hit the post. And there was still time for Casemiro to get his second, a header from Bruno Fernandes’s free-kick, during a crazy conclusion to a tough assignment in Germany.
DID YOU KNOW?
Before Casemiro, the last player to score two goals on their UCL proper debut for us was Dimitar Berbatov in 2008 (Memphis Depay did it in a qualifier in 2015).
BURNLEY 0 UNITED 1
Fernandes 45
After a difficult run of results, United returned to winning ways in the Premier League as a spectacular strike from Bruno Fernandes helped to see off Burnley at Turf Moor.
Erik ten Hag’s side came out fighting from the first moments. It led to an early chance for Marcus Rashford, who hit the side-netting after being played in by Hannibal. Fernandes was next to go close, testing James Trafford with a stinging effort that the Clarets keeper did well to parry away.
Burnley soon grew into the half and it took a wonderful stop from Andre Onana to prevent them taking the lead, as he pushed away Zeki Amdouni’s downward header. Amdouni then went even closer when he struck the post from just outside the six-yard box.
It was actually against the run of play when United had the ball
BRUNO HIT A SEARING VOLLEY PAST TRAFFORD, WHO COULD ONLY WATCH AS IT FLEW INTO THE
DID YOU KNOW?
This was the Reds’ seventh clean sheet in nine Premier League trips to Turf Moor, with Burnley only scoring twice throughout that run.
in the net on 25 minutes, as Jonny Evans – making his 200th Reds appearance, and first start for the club since March 2015 – headed in from a corner. But VAR intervened, deciding an offside Rasmus Hojlund had impeded Trafford’s view.
Evans’s luck changed just before the break as he floated a ball over the top of the defence that dropped perfectly on to the right foot of Fernandes. The skipper hit a searing volley past Trafford, who could only watch as the ball flew into the net.
It was a markedly different game after the break, with neither side able to build consistent attacks. That pattern was only briefly interrupted by a drilled Diogo Dalot cross which just evaded the outstretched leg of Rasmus Hojlund. Any contact would have doubled the lead.
With 15 minutes to go, Vincent Kompany ordered a triple change for Burnley in search of an equaliser, but United had a chance for a second goal when Hannibal combined with Rashford, only for the opening to be rebuffed by a packed Clarets defence.
One final Burnley chance from a dangerous free-kick came in stoppage time, but it was well held by Onana as the Reds took the points.
MAN OF THE MATCH BRUNO FERNANDES
The skipper stepped up to provide the moment of the game on the stroke of half-time, connecting with a superb pass from Evans to rifle the ball beyond James Trafford and into the far corner of the Clarets’ net.
UNITED 3
Garnacho 21, Casemiro 27, Martial 55
CRYSTAL PALACE 0
Cup defence starts in style against the Eagles
United cruised into the fourth round of the Carabao Cup with a convincing 3-0 win over Crystal Palace, kicking off the defence of the trophy in ideal fashion.
The tie was initially a slow burner, with the Reds not able to break the deadlock despite dominating the ball for lengthy periods.
It was Sofyan Amrabat, who impressed overall on his full debut, who had the first effort, blazing over the bar. Palace were then forced into an early change as former United goalkeeper Dean Henderson went off injured 19 minutes into his Eagles debut, to be replaced by another former Red in Sam Johnstone.
The opening goal quickly followed, scored by Alejandro Garnacho. The young winger finished smartly from Diogo Dalot’s pass across the face of goal, with Mason Mount and Facundo Pellistri
OTHER RESULTS
Aston Villa 1-2 Everton
Blackburn 5-2 Cardiff
Bournemouth 2-0 Stoke
Bradford 0-2 Middlesbrough
Brentford 0-1 Arsenal
Chelsea 1-0 Brighton
Exeter 1-0 Luton
Fulham 2-1 Norwich
Ipswich 3-2 Wolves
Lincoln 0-1 West Ham
Liverpool 3-1 Leicester
Mansfield 2-2 Peterborough (3-1onpens)
Newcastle 1-0 Man City
Port Vale 2-1 Sutton
Salford 0-4 Burnley
both involved earlier in the move. And Old Trafford had to wait only six minutes for another. Mount and Pellistri were both key again, combining to win a corner. Mount’s subsequent set-piece was headed in by an unmarked Casemiro.
Amrabat was tested a handful of times as a stand-in left-back, showing strength and tactical prowess more than once to close off potential Palace attacks. A half-time reshuffle allowed him to move into a more familiar midfield role.
Palace, meanwhile, brought on Marc Guehi as an extra centre-back to try and limit United’s free-flowing attack, but it only kept us at bay for 10 minutes of the second half.
Following a patient build-up, a sublime ball towards the back post from Casemiro was cushioned home on the half-volley by Anthony Martial, putting the Reds firmly in control of the third-round tie.
Chances for Palace were minimal, although Jean-Philippe Mateta did fizz an effort towards goal that Andre Onana parried to safety.
Substitute Jonny Evans then had a header saved by Johnstone, who also denied Victor Lindelof and Garnacho late on.
9
DID YOU KNOW?
Martial scored his ninth goal in this competition – second only to Marcus Rashford (14) for the most goals among United’s 2023/24 squad.
MAN OF THE MATCH CASEMIRO
The experienced Brazilian put in a vintage all-action display, breaking up play in the middle and shielding the defence superbly, while he also took his goal tally for the season to four in the Reds’ penultimate September outing.
UNITED 0 CRYSTAL PALACE 1
Four days after the Carabao Cup meeting, Crystal Palace returned to Old Trafford in the Premier League and claimed victory with a single first-half strike from defender Joachim Andersen.
The visitors went close to taking an early lead through Marc Guehi, whose header flashed narrowly wide of the mark. Soon after, Rasmus Hojlund was played in by Marcus Rashford and almost made it 1-0 at the other end, nudging the ball past the onrushing Sam Johnstone but seeing his effort cleared off the line by Tyrick Mitchell.
United went on to dominate the early exchanges, but it was to be Roy Hodgson’s Eagles who went ahead in the 25th minute.
The Reds momentarily switched off in defence as Eberechi Eze’s set-piece from the right found its way to Andersen at the back post, and he duly rifled an unstoppable first-time shot past Andre Onana.
Casemiro led the charge for a leveller before the break, just missing the target with a snapshot from Diogo Dalot’s knockdown before narrowly firing over the top from a Bruno Fernandes corner.
An acrobatic attempt from the Brazilian early in the second half also failed to test Johnstone, but eventually, the ex-United Academy goalkeeper was called into action, leaping into the air to keep out Fernandes’s long-range piledriver. Johnstone also repelled Hojlund’s header seconds later.
United players frantically appealed for a penalty as the game reached the hour mark, having seen the ball accidentally strike the hand of Palace captain Joel Ward. But no further action was taken.
Onana saved from Will Hughes, shooting from the edge of the box, as Palace attempted to double their lead after Jean-Philippe Mateta had won the ball back on the byline.
In the search for an equaliser, Mason Mount was next to go close when he missed the target with a header as the clock ticked on to 70 minutes.
Palace continued to survive a late onslaught when a cross from substitute Alejandro Garnacho into the six-yard box cannoned off Andersen and then Mitchell, ultimately being diverted agonisingly past the far post as the visitors held on for a surprise win.
United enjoyed over three-quarters of the possession in this game – our highest percentage of the season at that point.
OCTOBER
Two defeats but three straight wins for Erik ten Hag’s side, with dramatic finishes in the league and Europe, and an emotional farewell to Sir Bobby...
Manchester United, and indeed the entire footballing world, came together to mourn the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton on 21 October. With 758 games and 249 goals for the Reds – totals second only to those of Ryan Giggs and Wayne Rooney respectively – and having been a key player in the historic successes of the
2-1 win for Erik ten Hag’s team, arriving in the 77th minute of a sombre evening at Bramall Lane. Dalot took a touch to get Victor Lindelof’s pass out of his feet, before arrowing his match-winner into the top corner, to provide some joy for all of a Reds persuasion on an emotional night in South Yorkshire. MONTH
Busby Babes and Sir Matt’s great team of the Sixties, as well as an exemplary custodian of the club, the World Cup winner truly embodied the United Way, and his was a loss to all lovers of the beautiful game. From a playing perspective, three useful victories were sandwiched between two defeats as October
GOAL OF THE MONTH
DIOGO DALOT V SHEFFIELD UNITED
Diogo produced a long-range strike that the late, great Sir Bobby Charlton would have been thrilled with, on the day the United legend sadly passed away. The curler from the edge of the box was the decisive moment in the
brought mixed fortunes at home and in Europe. Rasmus Hojlund hit another Champions League brace to continue his fine start to life in the competition with the club, but it just wasn’t enough as Galatasaray left Old Trafford with all three points. Another loss looked on the cards when Brentford visited M16, as the
PLAYER OF THE MONTH SCOTT MCTOMINAY
Continuing the trend of midfielders winning the trophy, Scott’s highlight was his cameo from the bench v Brentford, in which he scored twice late on. He then notched at Sheffield United with a sweet volley.
Bees led going into stoppage time, only for Scott McTominay to conjure up a dramatic finale with two goals to turn the game on its head.
McTominay was on the scoresheet again in the visit to Sheffield United, breaking the deadlock before Diogo Dalot later struck after the hosts’ equaliser to seal back-to-back league wins for the first time in 2023/24.
Back in the Champions League, Harry Maguire’s header and Andre Onana’s stoppage-time penalty save ensured an important 1-0 triumph over Copenhagen, on an emotional night as Old Trafford remembered Sir Bobby for the first time since his passing. Bayern Munich had won three from three, but second place in the groups was still very much up for grabs, with Galatasaray on four points, United on three, and Copenhagen on one.
The final fixture was a Manchester derby date ending in a 3-0 win for City. Disheartening, but the Reds had at least managed to move up
the Premier League table, finishing October two places higher than a month previous, in eighth.
The top five were separated by just four points, with Tottenham holding a narrow lead over Arsenal – both still unbeaten – and City. Liverpool and Aston Villa (below) were only three and four points off top spot themselves. At the other end of the table, the newly promoted trio of Luton, Burnley and Sheffield United continued to struggle, occupying the bottom three places in the relegation zone.
The Blades were now the only team without a win in the top flight and had just one point from their opening 10 games.
Remembering the legendary Sir Bobby Charlton ahead of the away meeting with Sheffield United
UNITED 2
Hojlund 17, 67
GALATASARAY 3
Zaha 23, Akturkoglu 71, Icardi 81
Another high-scoring European tie ends in defeat
Rasmus Hojlund’s first goals at Old Trafford weren’t enough to stop United suffering a second successive Champions League group-stage defeat.
The first home European game of the season started in electric fashion, with Bruno Fernandes missing an early chance created by Hojlund. The Dane soon went from almost creator to goalscorer, opening his account at the Theatre of Dreams with a thumping header from Marcus Rashford’s cross.
However, the lead lasted just six minutes, when ex-Red Wilfried Zaha pulled Galatasaray level by hitting the ball into the ground and beyond Andre Onana after Davinson Sanchez’s direct ball over the top.
Erik ten Hag’s men sought to retake the lead, with Mason Mount and Casemiro each having efforts deflected wide of the target by opposition defenders.
Mount then had a golden opportunity in the closing moments of the first half, but his attempt took an unfortunate ricochet off team-mate Hannibal.
The sides traded chances in the second half, with Victor Lindelof making a crucial block to deny
POST-MATCH GROUP A TABLE
Kerem Akturkoglu immediately after the restart.
At the other end, the ball was nicked off Bruno Fernandes’s toe before he could finish Rashford’s square pass. Hojlund then thought he had his second goal from a composed finish, only to see an offside flag rule it out.
But the wait to go 2-1 ahead didn’t last much longer, as the Dane took advantage of a Sanchez slip to run from his own half and dink the ball over goalkeeper Fernando Muslera.
Galatasaray’s second equaliser was even quicker than their first, as Akturkoglu carved through the defence to finish beyond Onana.
Ten minutes later, a misplaced pass resulted in Casemiro bringing down substitute Dries Mertens with a last-ditch challenge, giving the referee no choice but to point to the spot. He also gave the Brazilian midfielder his marching orders after a second yellow card. Mauro Icardi put the resultant penalty wide, but the striker still ended up as the matchwinner, showing composure to finish one-on-one with a calm, dinked effort, to leave United without a point after two group games.
DID YOU KNOW?
2
Rasmus Hojlund became the second Danish Red to score in a European fixture at Old Trafford. The first? Peter Schmeichel, against Rotor Volgograd in 1995.
Dalot leaps to bring the ball under control on a rainy night in Manchester
UNITED 2
McTominay 90+3, 90+7
BRENTFORD 1
Jensen 26
Scott’s late show gets Old Trafford bouncing
Responding to the defeat by Galatasaray, United marked a return to Premier League action with a sensational stoppage-time comeback against Brentford at Old Trafford.
The Reds began on the front foot, although some teasing early Bruno Fernandes balls in the box didn’t yield anything, while Rasmus Hojlund also just failed to connect with Diogo Dalot’s ping into the area.
Yet for all that early work carving out chances, it was the travelling Bees who took the lead shortly before the half-hour mark.
United failed to clear an attack and the ball ended at the feet of Mathias Jensen, whose effort squeezed in despite Andre Onana getting a hand to the ball.
Marcus Rashford showed great skill to create room in the box shortly before half-time but Thomas Strakosha was equal to the shot in the Brentford goal.
At the other end, Bryan Mbeumo put a curler narrowly wide as the visitors went in ahead at the break.
Against his former club, Christian Eriksen replaced Casemiro at half-time and the Dane had United’s
DID YOU KNOW?
Manchester United won a Premier League game having reached the 90-minute mark in a losing position for the very first time.
first effort after the restart, troubling Strakosha from distance.
Dalot then soon prevented the Reds from going further behind, clearing on the line from a Nathan Collins header that had deflected off Christian Norgaard.
Brentford then had two further chances to double their lead in quick succession. The first came from Neal Maupay, who forced an impressive save out of Onana, tipping it over the bar. From the resultant corner, our no.24 pulled off another fingertip stop – this time from Norgaard.
Anthony Martial looked to have helped United move level in the closing stages by forcing an own goal, but it was chalked off when the Frenchman was flagged offside.
Three minutes into stoppage time, the equaliser finally came through Scott McTominay as he brought the ball down in the box and fired home to make it 1-1.
Moments later, McTominay latched on to Harry Maguire’s flick-on and headed beyond Strakosha to raise the roof at Old Trafford, completing another famous late comeback.
MAN OF THE MATCH SCOTT McTOMINAY
Great Scott! After stepping off the bench in the 87th minute as United chased a goal, our no.39 turned defeat into victory as he scored two in added time – that earned him an overwhelming 87 per cent of the vote for MotM.
SHEFFIELD UNITED 1
McBurnie 34 pen
McTominay 28, Dalot 77
Reds honour Sir Bobby with hard-fought victory
On the day the club said goodbye to Sir Bobby Charlton, United made it back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time in 2023/24 with victory over Sheffield United.
Tributes were paid to one of the Reds’ greatest sons ahead before the game, with black armbands worn following the news of his sad passing at the age of 86 earlier in the day.
The hosts made the brighter, more energetic start, and could have led as early as the third minute when Oli McBurnie forced an important low save from Andre Onana.
The Cameroonian was again required midway through the first half to stop Cameron Archer’s fizzing drive from distance.
Against the run of play, the visiting Reds went ahead just before the half-hour mark as Scott McTominay chested down Bruno Fernandes’s pass to volley in from around 10 yards out.
The lead unfortunately didn’t last long as McTominay was adjudged to have handled a low cross in the box
six minutes later, giving McBurnie the chance to restore parity from the penalty spot.
But even if the Blades deserved to be level, it was United who grew in authority, as Fernandes scorched the bar with a free-kick and Rasmus Hojlund drew a close-range save from Wes Foderingham.
Sheffield United enjoyed a brief spell on top after the break and Onana saved from Rhian Brewster, before the Reds began to turn the screw in search of maximum points.
Hojlund was disappointed not to score after a misplaced pass from Foderingham, and then Sofyan Amrabat crashed one against the Blades’ bar.
Just as the game seemed to be drifting towards an impasse, Diogo Dalot found space on the edge of the area and unfurled an imperious shot into the top corner, sending the away end behind the goal wild. United had to work hard to get over the line, with Harry Maguire resolute at the back against his old club, but ultimately held on for a fitting result in honour of Sir Bobby.
MAN OF THE MATCH HARRY MAGUIRE
Solid throughout in the heart of the United defence, the no.5 also demonstrated his accomplished passing range further forward against his former club, with Maguire pipping fellow defender Diogo Dalot to the MotM prize.
It was December 1962 when Sir Bobby Charlton scored his only goal against the Blades, in a 1-1 draw at
UNITED 1
COPENHAGEN 0
Onana’s spot-kick save preserves home victory
Andre Onana was the hero of the evening thanks to a last-gasp penalty save as United triumphed over Copenhagen in the Champions League.
Old Trafford remembered Sir Bobby Charlton ahead of kick-off with an emotional tribute in the first home game since his passing.
United struggled to settle early on and Copenhagen spurned a good chance to take a fifth-minute lead when Diogo Goncalves headed against the post and Mohamed Elyounoussi’s attempt to convert the rebound was deflected wide.
Rasmus Hojlund fired over the bar against his old club 15 minutes in, but Copenhagen’s willingness to get men behind the ball saw the Reds struggle to fashion many more opportunities in the first half, although Scott McTominay could have extended his goalscoring run with a header off target from Sergio Reguilon’s cross.
Looking for more creativity, Erik ten Hag introduced Christian Eriksen at the break, and the Reds began the second period with much more urgency, although Onana was forced into a sensational save to keep the scores level, tipping wide a vicious shot from Lukas Lerager.
At the other end, Kamil Grabara made a fine stop of his own, keeping out Hojlund’s low effort, but would also have been relieved not to concede a penalty after bringing down Marcus Rashford.
United were decidedly on top and the opener eventually came when Harry Maguire stayed forward after a corner and headed home from Eriksen’s delicious cross.
Garnacho and McTominay missed chances to make it two and the Reds then looked set to be stunned by a last-gasp sucker punch when McTominay was penalised for a high challenge on Elyounoussi in the box.
With all four minutes of stoppage time played, Onana dived the right way to superbly palm away the spot-kick from substitute Jordan Larsson – son of ex-United striker Henrik – and the final whistle sparked scenes of jubilation around the Theatre of Dreams.
DID YOU KNOW?
Onana’s spot-kick save meant he’d kept out an impressive 24 per cent of penalties faced in his career (excluding shootouts).
MAN OF THE MATCH ANDRE
ONANA
Onana kept his cool in the dying embers of the tie as a penalty decision went against us. But after an already commanding display, Andre was determined not to lose his clean sheet as he heroically saved the spot-kick.
UNITED 0 MANCHESTER CITY 3
Haaland 26 pen, 49, Foden 80
Reds’ winning run ends with derby loss in M16
United suffered a 3-0 defeat by local rivals Manchester City as October drew to a close.
The game kicked off to a chorus of ‘There’s only one Bobby Charlton’ following a minute’s applause, as both clubs paid tribute to the late, great footballing icon.
Using that energy, the Reds started brightly and created early opportunities by pressuring City into mistakes. That allowed Scott McTominay to drive at the backtracking City defence, with his effort saved.
A dangerous move saw Andre Onana acrobatically stop the ball reaching the lurking Erling Haaland.
Controversy surrounded the visitors’ opener as a penalty was awarded when VAR flagged contact on Rodri from Rasmus Hojlund some time after the incident occurred, with Haaland dispatching the spot-kick.
Hojlund was set free by an errant City pass five minutes later but he was disturbed by John Stones before he could apply the finishing touch. He skipped over Ederson’s challenge to keep it alive and teed up Bruno Fernandes, who fired over.
DID YOU KNOW?
This was our 1200th fixture in the Premier League, of which the Reds won 731, drew 263 and lost 206 – a win percentage of 61.
Both goalkeepers produced sublime saves in first-half stoppage time, with Ederson denying McTominay and Onana getting back for a wonderful stop when Haaland had the goal at his mercy.
Ederson then had to be equal to a Fernandes effort when United came back out positively at the start of the second half.
But City’s lead was doubled when Haaland added his second, similar to the effort Onana saved at the end of the first 45. Sadly, nothing could be done about the close-range header this time around.
Rashford narrowly missed a chance to get one back with little over 20 minutes to go, after impressively turning Kyle Walker inside-out.
Meanwhile, Onana was called into action to put his body on the line to stop Haaland’s hat-trick.
He saved again from Rodri’s deflected shot after 80 minutes, pushing the ball wide, only for Haaland to recycle the chance and cross low for Foden to steer City’s third into the net, rounding off the scoring on a tough day for the Reds.
NOVEMBER
A Carabao Cup exit alongside some challenging nights in Europe, but three straight league wins help the Reds continue to climb the table...
There may have been frustration in cup competitions, but it was a perfect month for the Reds in the league with three straight wins – and three clean sheets.
A Carabao Cup exit came against Newcastle at Old Trafford, while United were beaten by Copenhagen and drew with Galatasaray in two
high-scoring Champions League affairs. It meant a win would be required on the final matchday, at home to Bayern Munich, as well as a positive result elsewhere, for a chance of reaching the last 16.
However, Bruno Fernandes’s stoppage-time strike clinched a 1-0 Premier League win at Fulham,
GOAL OF THE MONTH
ALEJANDRO GARNACHO V EVERTON
Dalot’s floated cross from the right flank and connected in sensational fashion, looping it out of the reach of Pickford as he dived to his left. Bedlam ensured among our travelling contingent at the opposite end of the stadium, as Garna wheeled away in a cool manner to celebrate in front of a stunned Gwladys Street End. MONTH
It would have been no surprise to see Alejandro’s name being engraved on to the trophy in the moments after his outrageous acrobatic effort hit the back of Jordan Pickford’s net. The winger got his skates on to meet Diogo
before Victor Lindelof’s close-range effort did the same at home to Luton.
That was followed by a superb attacking display at Goodison Park, sparked by Alejandro Garnacho’s sensational early overhead kick that would go on to be named the Premier League Goal of the Season. Marcus Rashford’s penalty and a
PLAYER OF THE MONTH ALEJANDRO GARNACHO
If he wasn’t already making a big enough impression, Garna launched his name into another stratosphere with his goal at Everton. Three days later, his left-footed strike nudged us ahead away to Galatasaray.
third from Anthony Martial put the seal on the 3-0 victory, making it five wins in the last six in the top flight as the Reds rose to sixth, four points off a Champions League spot. It was also a first start for Kobbie Mainoo.
That fine run of form earned further recognition as Harry Maguire and Erik ten Hag received the Premier League’s Player and Manager of the Month awards respectively for their efforts.
For the Toffees, it was another low point in a distressing campaign so far, coming nine days after they
were docked 10 points for breaking profit and sustainability rules –a punishment that pushed them to second bottom in the table. Only Burnley were below them, while Sheffield United occupied the other relegation spot, with Luton in 17th.
At the top, it was now Arsenal who held the advantage – despite suffering a first league loss of ’23/24, at Newcastle – one point ahead of Manchester City, with Liverpool and Aston Villa a further point back.
Tottenham’s promising start came to an abrupt end, as they suffered three straight defeats, first at home to Chelsea (having had two players sent off in a game that also included five disallowed goals), and then against Wolves and Aston Villa.
Chelsea were involved in a similarly frantic clash against City at Stamford Bridge, as a topsy-turvy contest ended in a 4-4 draw after Cole Palmer’s late spot-kick (above). It was the first of a four-game winless streak for the defending champions that would continue into December.
Back home at Old Trafford, the venue for just two of six November games
UNITED 0 NEWCASTLE UNITED 3
Almiron 29, Hall 36, Willock 61
Cup defence comes to an end against Magpies
Having defeated Newcastle to lift the Carabao Cup last season, United this time exited the competition against the same opponents at Old Trafford.
The Reds emerged with a point to prove after defeat in the Manchester derby and controlled the contest in the opening 15 minutes.
Casemiro registered the first shot of the game, an effort gathered comfortably by former United loanee Martin Dubravka.
Matt Ritchie soon threatened for Newcastle, but the first goal came when full-back Tino Livramento won possession and surged forward from defence, playing in Miguel Almiron to clip past Andre Onana.
United chased and pushed for a swift response as Mason Mount poked just wide from Alejandro Garnacho’s dangerous ball towards the near post.
But it was instead Newcastle who struck next, doubling their lead in the approach to half-time through defender Lewis Hall. The left-back hit a headed defensive clearance back towards the Reds’ goal on the volley, and the ball bounced past
DID YOU KNOW?
United’s run of six straight Carabao Cup clean sheets was ended, with it having started in the same round in the previous campaign, at home to Burnley.
Hannibal and Victor Lindelof on its way into the bottom corner of the net. Diogo Dalot fired wide and Mount forced Dubravka into a crucial saves before the interval, but Newcastle maintained a 2-0 advantage going into the break.
That prompted a double change from Erik ten Hag, with the introduction of both Sofyan Amrabat and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
The latter injected a new lease of life into the attack with some slick link-ups down the right, very nearly setting up a goal for Anthony Martial.
On the hour mark, Eddie Howe’s side scored once more to increase their lead. After Joelinton’s intervention, Joe Willock’s driving run through the middle of the park created the space for a shot, and he cushioned a precise effort into the bottom corner to all but secure the victory for the visitors with 30 minutes of the contest still to play.
With Newcastle three goals to the good, the cup tie eventually reached a lull as neither side managed to create any more clear chances, as the Reds’ 2023/24 Carabao Cup campaign was ended.
OTHER RESULTS
Bournemouth 1-2
FULHAM 0 UNITED 1
Fernandes 90+1
Brilliant Bruno conjures another cracking winner
Bruno Fernandes came up with a captain’s goal on his 200th United appearance to crown a spirited team performance, as the Reds beat Fulham away in the Premier League following a dramatic conclusion.
After losing Casemiro and Marcus Rashford within 24 hours of kick-off, there seemed to be another injury setback when Harry Maguire went down with a blow to the head inside two minutes.
He was passed fit to continue after treatment and, as if galvanised by that boost, the Reds found the net through Scott McTominay, although what would have been a deserved opener was ruled out after Maguire was deemed to be offside in the build-up.
The disallowed goal and the best save of the half – Andre Onana brilliantly denying Harry Wilson –both came in the first 15 minutes.
But the ensuing first-half action disappointed, with neither side able to properly get into their stride.
United edged things in terms of possession but Bruno’s tame attempt from range, which was comfortably gathered by Bernd
DID YOU KNOW?
This was United’s 14th stoppage-time goal under Erik ten Hag, and a second successive such winner at Fulham.
Leno, was the only shot on target in the opening period.
Alejandro Garnacho initially carried the greatest threat after the interval, fashioning a couple of opportunities on the left that were thwarted by a combination of Leno and the Fulham defence.
In response, the Cottagers pushed United back, forcing several corners and drawing some excellent stops from Onana, who kept out Wilson again as well as Joao Palhinha, while Diogo Dalot cleared another Fulham attempt off the line.
Facundo Pellistri came on for Antony and produced his first shot on target within minutes, although a diving Leno was equal to it.
Fresh attacking legs in Mason Mount and Anthony Martial were also sent on, with the latter almost producing a moment of magic, when his acrobatic effort flew just wide. Leno also pushed away a stinging Fernandes free-kick.
Thankfully, Bruno won his final battle with Leno, beating him with a driven strike in the 91st minute after Fulham fluffed chances to clear under pressure from both Pellistri and McTominay.
Our Portuguese midfielder stepped up once again in the final moments of the game, striking home with confidence to bring all three points back to Old Trafford – much to the delight of the noisy travelling faithful at Craven Cottage.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE | GROUP A MATCHDAY 4 WEDNESDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2023 | PARKEN STADIUM | 8PM
United were left crestfallen in Denmark on Champions League matchday four, battling for just over half the game with 10 players before ultimately succumbing to a dramatic late Copenhagen fightback.
The Reds seemed far from flustered by the Parken Stadium atmosphere in the opening minutes, with Rasmus Hojlund breaking the deadlock at the back post from Scott McTominay’s final pass in the box to finish a team move that began with Andre Onana and the back four.
Hojlund then had another goal on his former stomping ground with 28 minutes played. The breakaway from Harry Maguire’s headed clearance made its way upfield for Alejandro Garnacho to race through on goal. His effort was saved by Kamil Grabara, but our Danish frontman was there to gleefully gobble up the rebound.
Other chances for local hero Hojlund came and went as United took control, but a huge moment in the closing stages of the first half resulted in play being pulled back for a retrospective VAR check, which climaxed with what seemed a very harsh red card for a foul by Marcus Rashford on Elias Jelert.
By half-time, Copenhagen had managed to score twice to go into the break on level terms.
Mohamed Elyounoussi swept home Diogo Goncalves’s volleyed cross, and then, towards the end of 13 minutes of added time – the result of two medical emergencies in the stands – a penalty was awarded when the ball was kicked against Maguire’s arm from barely a yard away. Goncalves converted.
The Reds retook the lead with a slice of fortune midway through the second half, being handed a spot-kick as Lukas Lerager was punished for a similar arm movement to Maguire’s. Bruno Fernandes ignored the boos from behind the goal to drill his kick high into the Copenhagen net.
But in a game full of stinging twists, the visitors were made to pay when Lerager redeemed himself by sneaking beyond Diogo Dalot at the back post to squeeze the ball in.
Four minutes later, there was further heartbreak, when the ball dropped inside the area to teenage substitute Roony Bardghji to smash home the game’s seventh goal, and what proved to be the winner.
5
DID YOU KNOW?
Hojlund reached five Champions League goals for United in just four games – quicker than any Red in competition history since it was rebranded in 1992.
MAN OF THE MATCH VICTOR LINDELOF
UNITED 1
Lindelof 59
LUTON TOWN 0
Lindelof strikes on historic Hatters visit to M16
A single goal from Victor Lindelof on Remembrance Day helped United emerge victorious when Luton Town visited Old Trafford for the first time in Premier League history.
Following an impeccably observed silence prior to kick-off, the Reds began the afternoon in a calm fashion, patiently seeking to break down a defensive-minded Luton side.
A chance for Rasmus Hojlund came after Harry Maguire’s searching ball over the top put Marcus Rashford into the space on the right. The deflected cross prompted an improvised left-knee finish from the Danish striker, which was somehow scrambled away by visiting keeper Thomas Kaminski when a goal seemed inevitable.
Rashford was involved again when he fired a dangerous ball across the box that was very nearly turned into his own net by a relieved Gabriel Osho.
The pressure was all from the Reds, although Luton’s best opportunity of the first half came as Carlton Morris directed a header towards goal that was parried to safety by Andre Onana.
DID YOU KNOW?
Luton became United’s 50th different opponent in the Premier League, visiting M16 for the first time since 1991.
Five minutes before the break, Hojlund’s through ball found Alejandro Garnacho, but his attempt to take it around Kaminski was thwarted.
United looked to up the tempo after the break, putting pressure on the Hatters with searing runs and good interplay between Garnacho and Sergio Reguilon, before a tactical switch allowed Rashford to return to his favoured left wing.
The Reds’ no.10 duly delivered, causing problems down the flank which resulted in a corner. Bruno Fernandes’s delivery caused a scramble in visitors’ box, with the ball eventually falling to Lindelof, who thundered a shot into the net from close range.
The visitors were forced to advance further up the pitch following that breakthrough but were struggling to fashion any clear-cut chances.
Former Red Tahith Chong came on midway through the second half and won his new side a promising free-kick that Ross Barkley could only fire into a solid United wall.
Meanwhile, a late free-kick from Fernandes didn’t trouble Kaminski as the score remained 1-0.
The Swede worked tirelessly at the back, playing searching balls to the flanks as the hosts sought a breakthrough. And when our goal finally came close to the hour mark, it was Lindelof who got it with a close-range finish.
EVERTON 0 UNITED 3
Garnacho 3, Rashford 56 pen, Martial 75
Garnacho’s stunner paves way to three points
The Reds made it three Premier League wins on the bounce by defying a hostile atmosphere at Goodison Park to convincingly beat Everton.
With Erik ten Hag forced to sit in the stands due to an accumulation of yellow cards, United got off to a flying start thanks to Alejandro Garnacho’s jaw-dropping overhead kick, remarkably reminiscent of Wayne Rooney’s iconic Manchester derby goal from 2011, only three minutes into the game.
The acrobatic right-footed connection with Diogo Dalot’s cross from the right was clean and clinical. As the ball arced over Jordan Pickford, Reds around the world were united in ecstasy and awe, perhaps even some disbelief.
Everton, stung by a points deduction nine days earlier that was fuelling protests in the Goodison Park stands, were otherwise the better team in the first half.
Andre Onana made two saves to deny Dominic Calvert-Lewin and was grateful to Kobbie Mainoo, making his first Premier League start, for the goal-line clearance that kept out a follow-up from former Red James Garner.
The game restarted with a sense that Everton could eventually find an equaliser, but the pivotal next goal was scored by United after a VAR decision favoured Ten Hag’s team.
Anthony Martial was initially yellow-carded for simulation when he went down in the box, but a second look from referee John Brooks resulted in a penalty being awarded instead, which Marcus Rashford stepped up to convert.
Everton responded well to conceding again, with Onana making an incredible flying save to deny Idrissa Gueye, and Dalot getting in the way of a thunderous effort from Abdoulaye Doucoure.
But the Reds also maintained an attacking threat as Garnacho rippled the side-netting, before being replaced by Facundo Pellistri.
The Uruguayan made an immediate impact in the build-up to our third goal by feeding Bruno Fernandes. The captain’s eye-of-the-needle pass found Martial gliding between the Everton centre-backs to coolly dink a first-time finish over Pickford.
Vitaliy Mykolenko later hit the bar, but it would have been mere consolation for a well-beaten Everton.
DID YOU KNOW?
This was United’s 19th Premier League victory at Goodison Park – a tally higher than at any other opposition stadium.
MAN OF THE MATCH KOBBIE MAINOO
In what was the Academy graduate’s first competitive start, the teenager displayed calmness and quality in abundance, controlling the midfield and getting involved at both ends of the pitch.
GALATASARAY 3
Ziyech 29, 62, Akturkoglu 71
UNITED 3
Garnacho 11, Fernandes 18, McTominay 55
European hopes in the balance after lively draw
Another goal-filled Champions League night ended in disappointment for United in Istanbul as Galatasaray fought back from two goals behind in the second half to draw 3-3.
The contest kicked off amid a swirl of boos and hisses from the home fans and early Galatasaray efforts from Hakim Ziyech, Lucas Torreira and Dries Mertens rained down as the hosts had the best of the opening 10 minutes.
However, it was United who would be first to profit, going on to take control with two quick goals.
First, a lovely team move involving Antony, Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Hojlund ended with the ball being blasted high past goalkeeper Fernando Muslera by Alejandro Garnacho’s left boot after the final ball was played by our skipper.
Bruno then added to his assist with a strike of his own, rasping a magnificent drive from 25 yards above the helpless hand of Muslera.
It was dreamland, rather than the ‘nightmare’ promised by one banner that was unfurled pre-match.
But Galatasaray soon responded when Ziyech whipped a free-kick past Andre Onana, who was left
DID YOU KNOW?
Fernandes moved on to 15 goals in 44 European games for United after his stunning first-half strike in Turkey.
unsighted by decoy runs next to the defensive wall as the ball was struck.
The intensity didn’t relent and Mauro Icardi had a would-be equaliser ruled out by VAR for the tightest of offsides.
United’s two-goal advantage was restored 10 minutes into the second half as Erik ten Hag’s team countered and Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s low cross from acres of space on the right was turned in at the near post by a sliding Scott McTominay.
It didn’t take long for the home side to hit back again, though, as a teasing second Ziyech free-kick got the better of Onana, who got a hand on the ball but unfortunately couldn’t keep it out.
That reawakened Galatasaray and they were level nine minutes later thanks to an unstoppable strike from substitute Kerem Akturkoglu, from just inside the area.
In an attempt to get us back ahead, a series of efforts saw Garnacho curl one narrowly wide, McTominay spear a low drive just the wrong side of the post and Facundo Pellistri twice shoot over the bar. Agonisingly, Fernandes also clipped the post in the 85th minute with a measured shot from distance.
MAN OF THE MATCH BRUNO FERNANDES
In a dominant start for the Reds, it was Bruno who had the most influence. He scored a sublime goal from distance, signalling his class, having assisted Garnacho seven minutes earlier to give United an 11th-minute lead.
DECEMBER
A busy end to the year sees United exit European competition, but a Boxing Day thriller at home boosts morale, as does Hojlund’s Premier League first...
The final month of 2023 was truly a mixed bag for United, with eight games, two invigorating wins and a hard-earned point at Anfield, but also four league defeats and a European exit.
After being beaten at St James’ Park in December’s opening fixture, the Reds bounced back by defeating
Chelsea 2-1, Scott McTominay continuing his good scoring form with another match-winning brace. Bournemouth then claimed a shock win at Old Trafford, before the European campaign sadly came to an early end when Bayern Munich also edged to victory against us. But resilience was shown in a 0-0 draw
GOAL OF THE MONTH RASMUS HOJLUND V ASTON VILLA
The Dane’s first Premier League goal proved to be a belated seasonal gift, arriving in United’s thrilling come-from-behind win on Boxing Day. With the encounter poised at 2-2, Rasmus latched on to a loose ball following a Bruno
Fernandes corner and showed his instinctive nature to volley it in off the post. “It meant a lot,” he said, speaking to MUTV afterwards. “You could see the relief in my celebration. It was a good moment, getting the three points... a good comeback, first Premier League goal, you couldn’t have written it much better.”
away to Liverpool, as United became the first visiting team to avoid defeat at Anfield in 2023/24, as well as the first club to keep a clean sheet against Jurgen Klopp’s side in the campaign. Disappointment arrived during losses on the road at West Ham and Nottingham Forest, but sandwiched between them was
PLAYER OF THE MONTH ALEJANDRO GARNACHO
Tasked with playing on the right and the left in December, the 19-year-old more than made his mark, registering two goals and two assists, securing him the POTM prize for the second successive month.
a memorable recovery victory at home to Aston Villa, who had taken a 2-0 half-time lead on Boxing Day.
Two strikes from Alejandro Garncho, followed by an emotional winner from Rasmus Hojlund – his first goal in the Premier League –had Old Trafford bouncing, and showed that Erik ten Hag’s men still had plenty of fight left.
The first managerial changes since Julen Lopetegui left Wolves in August came at Sheffield United, who replaced Paul Heckingbottom with the returning Chris Wilder (right) after a 5-0 loss to Burnley sent them bottom, and Forest, who brought in Nuno Espirito Santo after dismissing Steve Cooper in the wake of a run of one win in 13 league games.
All the thoughts of the Premier League were with Luton’s Tom Lockyer, who suffered a cardiac arrest during his side’s visit to Bournemouth, causing the game to be abandoned. After being taken to hospital, his recovery was a thankful sight for everyone in football.
At the turn of the year, Liverpool topped the table, followed a little surprisingly by Aston Villa, who had enjoyed a fine month with wins over third-placed Manchester City and Arsenal in fourth. Indeed, United were the only team to beat the Villans in December.
Everton had managed to recover from their points deduction and climbed out of the drop zone, where once again the three promoted sides now sat. Luton were only a point off safety, but Burnley and Sheffield United were starting to be cut adrift.
Fans arrive at Old Trafford in festive spirit for the Boxing Day fixture against Aston Villa
NEWCASTLE UNITED 1
UNITED 0
December starts with narrow defeat on Tyneside
United’s run of Premier League wins in November unfortunately wasn’t carried into December as Newcastle secured victory courtesy of Anthony Gordon’s goal at St James’ Park.
The match got under way in sub-zero conditions in the north-east of England. Eddie Howe’s side were the were the beneficiaries of an extra day’s rest after both clubs had been in Champions League action in midweek and the refreshed Magpies roared out of the blocks early on.
Although a chance for Alejandro Garnacho was saved by Nick Pope’s feet, the Reds then had to weather the black-and-white storm, as Andre Onana saved from Miguel Almiron, Harry Maguire blocked with his heel to deny Alexander Isak, and a Jamaal Lascelles header just missed the target.
Kieran Trippier then went even closer to breaking the deadlock as he hammered a trademark free-kick against the crossbar, before Onana quickly leapt up to claim the bouncing loose ball.
DID YOU KNOW?
This game saw United concede a league goal from open play on the road for the first time in nearly three months, since facing Arsenal in September.
Another Maguire block also denied Fabian Schar as he took aim with a powerful strike in the closing stages of the first half.
Newcastle maintained their pressure following the restart, with Luke Shaw on hand to twice cut out menacing crosses and Onana gratefully collecting a tame shot from Joelinton.
But United couldn’t hold out any longer when Trippier slid a low ball across to the back post, where the oncoming Gordon tapped in.
The hosts had the bit between their teeth and, bar an off-target header from Maguire, the play was still tilted towards the wrong end of the pitch from a Red perspective as the minutes ebbed from the contest.
Newcastle were forced into a goalkeeping change when Pope injured his shoulder and had to be replaced by former United loanee Martin Dubravka. His first duty was to pick the ball out the net, but it would not count as Maguire had strayed into an offside position prior to diverting in Antony’s shot, as the visitors were left frustrated.
UNITED 2
McTominay 19, 69
CHELSEA 1
Palmer 45
McTominay’s at the double to down Londoners
United bounced back from disappointment on Tyneside with a morale-boosting midweek victory at Old Trafford thanks to a brace from Scott McTominay.
There were four changes from the previous game and Rasmus Hojlund, back in the team, forced an early save from Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez with just three minutes on the clock.
Bruno Fernandes then had a golden chance to open the scoring when United were awarded a penalty after a VAR review of a challenge on Antony, but his low effort was kept out by Sanchez, with Garnacho sending the rebound over.
Both sides were going blow-for-blow following that save, but it was McTominay who found himself in the right place to break the deadlock. Harry Maguire’s shot was deflected into the path of the Scotland international, who placed the ball out of the reach of an unsighted Sanchez.
The visiting stopper prevented an unmarked McTominay from doubling his tally quickly afterwards, making an instinctive double save from point-blank range.
Andre Onana had saved crucially from Nicolas Jackson in a one-on-one opportunity, while Raheem Sterling was fortunate to avoid a booking after trying to win a penalty when challenged by Victor Lindelof inside the area.
But Chelsea’s equaliser on the brink of half-time was still against the run of play, when Cole Palmer weaved into the area and slotted a low effort back across the goal into Onana’s far corner.
The two teams emerged from the interval just as energetic as they had left off.
An ambitious Alejandro Garnacho bicycle kick sailed over the bar before he had another effort that curled just inches off target.
Goalscorer McTominay then emerged exactly where United needed him again, meeting Garnacho’s cross at the back post.
After a VAR check for a potential foul on Levi Colwill, Old Trafford roared in delight as the goal stood.
Garnacho was denied by a Reece James block before whistling an attempt narrowly wide, but it mattered not as the Reds celebrated a welcome win.
DID YOU KNOW?
This game saw United go 11 home fixtures unbeaten against Chelsea, with the Blues winless at Old Trafford since 2013.
MAN OF THE MATCH SCOTT McTOMINAY
Another dynamic display from the Scotland international, who netted once in each half to see us to an important league win on home soil against the Blues. The midfielder claimed a huge 72 per cent of the votes on the club app and ManUtd.com.
UNITED 0 BOURNEMOUTH 3
Solanke 5, Billing 68, Senesi 73
Cherries earn shock first victory at Old Trafford
From the midweek high of beating a long-time rival in the win over Chelsea, United were stunned by Bournemouth in the Premier League as the visitors won at Old Trafford for the first time in their history.
It was the Cherries who made the brighter start in the Manchester rain and that was rewarded with a goal when they took an early lead through Dominic Solanke’s slick finish.
Lewis Cook latched on to an attempt to play out from the back and he squared the ball for the striker to flick in to the far corner.
Erik ten Hag’s side came close to an almost instant equaliser through a towering Harry Maguire header that was tipped over the bar by back-pedalling goalkeeper Neto.
A golden chance for Marcus Tavernier to double Bournemouth’s lead was fired straight at Andre Onana, but the midfielder was at the heart of the action once more as he nodded in the rebound from Solanke’s parried free header. Thankfully, on this occasion, an offside flag ruled it out to keep the deficit at one.
Solanke went on to hit the post in the closing stages of the half after
DID YOU KNOW?
Prior to this game, we’d been unbeaten in all 10 previous home meetings with Bournemouth, dating back to 1949.
a quick transition followed a sloppy United pass in midfield. Solanke was proving a thorn in our side and it took a last-ditch Harry Maguire challenge to deny the no.9 another opportunity before the interval.
Some sustained United pressure after the restart led to a flurry of efforts from Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Hojlund, which were all blocked before they could reach the target.
Diogo Dalot also had an excellent chance to fire the Reds level but could only hit the side-netting.
Moments later, the Cherries added a second goal, picking off a misplaced pass on the halfway line before Philip Billing rose highest in the middle to head home from a precise Tavernier delivery.
Tavernier was the creator again less than 10 minutes later as Bournemouth got their third of the afternoon, his corner perfectly placed for Marcos Senesi to nod in past Onana.
Things seemingly went from bad to worse when Dango Ouattara bundled past Onana and thought he had added a fourth, but VAR once again intervened for handball on an afternoon to forget for the Reds.
UNITED 0 BAYERN MUNICH 1
Coman 71
Reds exit Europe as Bayern edge group contest
United’s Champions League campaign came to an end on matchday six of the group stage following a battling and ultimately narrow defeat to Bayern Munich.
Erik ten Hag’s side showed heart and commitment against the already-qualified Germans but were unable to find the goal that was needed to provide any chance of progressing to the knockout stage.
The Reds answered the manager’s pre-match call to press Bayern high up the pitch in the early stages, showing plenty of endeavour and energy in an attempt to lift the Old Trafford faithful.
The visitors had the game’s first chance when Harry Kane’s tame shot was easily collected by Andre Onana, and from there they started to gain a foothold.
Onana was called upon again to keep out a Joshua Kimmich strike
DID YOU KNOW?
Despite United not progressing in Europe, the Reds were the joint-highest scorers in Group A, level with Bayern on 12 goals.
from distance, while Luke Shaw returned the favour at the other end, stinging the palms of visiting goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
Leroy Sane spurned a great opportunity to put Bayern ahead just over 30 minutes in when he miscued his attempt from a superb Kingsley Coman cross.
The Reds continued to work hard all over the pitch to thwart the Bundesliga outfit, but were dealt defensive blows when Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw were both forced off through injury.
Into the second half and Bruno Fernandes reacted in disgust to blasting over from the edge of the box after linking up with substitute Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
United were now in the ascendency and Alejandro Garnacho fired in a dangerous low cross that Min-jae Kim had to scramble away.
News filtered through from the group’s other game that Copenhagen had taken the lead over Galatasaray in a further obstacle to United’s hopes of progressing to the last 16.
Yet the players were focused on doing their bit, though clear-cut openings were proving harder to come by.
Then came the killer blow. United were unable to get a tackle in as Bayern skirted across the box and Kane stabbed the ball through for Coman, who took a touch to steady himself before hammering past Onana, bringing this season’s European journey to an end.
LIVERPOOL 0 UNITED 0
Stout display earns useful league draw at Anfield
After a difficult run of results, and with a considerable injury list, United earned a battling point against Liverpool at Anfield, as Erik ten Hag’s squad refused to accept defeat.
Given the respective form of the two sides going into the contest, the hosts began as favourites, but Ten Hag’s men arrived in Merseyside in determined mood and managed to ride out waves of early crosses during a furious start.
Kobbie Mainoo demonstrated the precocious maturity in midfield that was rapidly earning the manager’s trust, while the United defence held firm and won several offside calls due to a well-organised backline.
Further up the pitch, Rasmus Hojlund was an often isolated figure, with the attacking trio struggling to produce connectivity.
The United away end didn’t complain, however. They wanted fight from the team, and those calls were firmly answered. Headers by
Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate from corners were Liverpool’s clearest first-half chances, while shots from midfielders Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch sailed harmlessly over the United bar.
The hosts continued to press after the interval, albeit without the same ferocity of the early stages.
Trent Alexander-Arnold hit the side-netting, but United put together an encouraging move when Mainoo seemed to put Alejandro Garnacho in on goal. Agonisingly, AlexanderArnold got back just in time.
Andre Onana made saves from Mohamed Salah and Konate, either side of United’s most fluent play, when Hojlund fired into goalkeeper Alisson’s midriff. Scott McTominay then shot over, although Liverpool pushed United further back as the clock ticked closer to full-time.
Joe Gomez hit the side-netting and there was a nervy wait as VAR checked a potential handball against Luke Shaw inside the area, but his arm was in a natural position.
Some resolute defending from Raphael Varane and others helped clinch a defiant point, secured even despite the late drama of Diogo Dalot being sent off following two quickfire yellow cards.
DID YOU KNOW?
United drew a league match for the first time since April 2023 against Spurs, having then gone 23 games without a stalemate.
MAN OF THE MATCH RAPHAEL VARANE
Alongside equally experienced team-mate Jonny Evans, the French defender stood firm to help us take a draw at Anfield. Varane seemed to be in the right place at the right time over and over again, taking 36 per cent of the fan vote.
WEST HAM UNITED 2
Bowen 72, Kudus 78
Second-half strikes give the Hammers victory
United’s pre-Christmas trip to London Stadium ended in a disappointing 2-0 defeat to West Ham in the Premier League.
The opening stages were tentative, but the Hammers enjoyed the first sight of goal as wideman Emerson forced Andre Onana to parry the ball with a curling effort from the edge of the box.
The Reds eventually began to get a foothold in the game, building nicely from the back where Academy graduate Willy Kambwala was making his first-team debut alongside Jonny Evans, in the absence of four senior centre-backs due to injury and illness.
There were few openings, but, after half an hour, United seemed to find some attacking groove.
Antony had an attempt saved by Alphonse Areola, before setting up team-mate Alejandro Garnacho for a close-range effort that was again halted by the Frenchman.
Garnacho almost forced Lucas Paqueta to turn the ball into his own goal, his block landing on roof of the net.
DID YOU KNOW?
Willy Kambwala became the 11th and final player to make their United debut during the calendar year of 2023.
Kobbie Mainoo’s half-volley then came close to wrong-footing Areola as it bounced just in front of him.
The best move of the first half saw intricate play on the edge of the area result in Antony fizzing a dangerous ball across the face of goal, with Rasmus Hojlund and Garnacho unable to connect.
West Ham started the second half better and, with nearly an hour played, Onana acrobatically stopped Jarrod Bowen’s header from a pinpoint corner delivery.
Yet Bowen eventually fired the Irons ahead with the first part of a quickfire double.
He latched on to Paqueta’s well-executed dink over the top, and persisted in forcing the ball across the goal-line despite Onana getting a glove on the forward’s initial effort.
Minutes later, David Moyes’s side were two goals to the good after the in-form Mohammed Kudus doubled their tally.
Reacting to a mistake in the middle of the park, he drove towards goal and pulled his effort across Onana, into the bottom corner.
UNITED 3
Garnacho 59, 71, Hojlund 82
ASTON VILLA 2
McGinn 21, Dendoncker 26
United battle back in Boxing Day blockbuster
Rasmus Hojlund’s first Premier League goal ensured United emerged victorious against Aston Villa in front of a buzzing Boxing Day crowd at Old Trafford after fighting back from 2-0 down.
On his first start since November, Christian Eriksen made his returning intent clear, hitting a loose ball first time on the half-volley sweetly but straight at Emiliano Martinez.
It soon fell to Villa to ask questions and they led when John McGinn whipped a free-kick into the box that managed to evade everyone and find its way into the far corner.
Another set-piece, just five minutes later, led to Unai Emery’s visitors doubling their lead.
Clement Lenglet nodded the ball back into the middle from a corner towards the outstretched leg of Leander Dendoncker, whose reactive touch was enough to send the ball into the back of the net from close range, despite the Belgian being surrounded by United players.
The Reds tried to turn up the pressure with a flurry of quality chances on the half-hour mark from Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, but none
of the trio were able to properly test Martinez. Rashford then flashed another shot wide just before half-time that some inside the stadium thought had gone in.
Two goals behind, the Reds responded after the break as Garnacho took the ball round Martinez and slotted home, only for VAR to rule the no.17 was offside from Rashford’s original pass.
More frustration followed as penalty claims for a challenge on Rashford by Martinez were waved away by the referee.
Unhampered by the setbacks, Rashford switched play to Garnacho in exactly the same fashion as before. The Argentina international finished his chance once again, and it was game on.
The relentless young winger then levelled the scores with his second goal, picking up a loose ball in the box and letting off an instinctive shot that took a deflection off Villa’s Brazilian defender Diego Carlos.
And it was Hojlund who grabbed the winner, volleying in off the post when a corner bounced off McGinn, before the Dane sprinted to a jubilant Stretford End to celebrate.
DID YOU KNOW?
United picked up 26 victories in 36 home games across all competitions in 2023 – a win rate of 72.2 per cent.
MAN OF THE MATCH ALEJANDRO GARNACHO
It was Garnacho who scooped the award following this Boxing Day classic, leading the Reds’ thrilling comeback from 2-0 down. The teenager was a livewire throughout and capped off a fine team display with two well-taken goals.
NOTTINGHAM FOREST 2
Dominguez 64, Gibbs-White 82
Rashford 78
Final outing of 2023 sees hosts take the spoils
The Reds’ final fixture of 2023 ended with a frustrating 2-1 defeat away at Nottingham Forest, with Erik ten Hag’s side ultimately unable to find a spark at the City Ground.
Even though a shot came inside 60 seconds as Kobbie Mainoo got his head in the way of Nicolas Dominguez’s strike, the first half was lacking in real goalmouth action or overall quality.
Raphael Varane risked an own goal with a deflection on ex-Red Anthony Elanga’s ball across the box and the hosts were marginally the better side, despite Forest goalkeeper Matt Turner looking nervous at times in possession.
Ten Hag introduced Scott McTominay in place of Mainoo at half-time, but the pattern of the game remained largely the same.
A second change saw Amad make his first appearance for the club for more than two years.
United’s first shot after the break was a cracking one as Diogo Dalot smacked a post from distance.
DID YOU KNOW?
Amad made his 10th United appearance, last playing against Young Boys in the Champions League in December 2021.
But the visitors were unable to build on it and the opening goal arrived for Forest on 64 minutes.
It was all too easy from a Red perspective as Dominguez found in space in the box, and placed his finish past Andre Onana after build-up play involving Elanga and Gonzalo Montiel.
The equaliser came when Turner’s errant pass out was taken by Alejandro Garnacho, who fed Rashford for a first-time finish.
Everything hinged on one dramatic minute as Garnacho set up Christian Eriksen to shoot, with Turner diving to push the ball away.
Although Amad was on to the rebound, Bruno Fernandes tried to dummy the intended pass and, instead, Forest broke in numbers.
Capitalising on poor marking, Elanga passed to a grateful Morgan Gibbs-White, who rifled past Onana to make it 2-1.
Turner thwarted Fernandes and Amad towards the end, while a handball shout inside the box left the officials unmoved.
NOTTM FOREST UNITED
JANUARY
A shortened start to the new year for the Reds, with a lively Premier League draw sandwiched between two FA Cup wins on the road to reach round five...
There were just three games in the calendar for United to kick off the new year, with a two-week gap between the second and third as part of the Premier League’s staggered winter break.
Two of those came in the FA Cup as the Reds’ involvement in another competition began. First was a trip
to Wigan in the third round, as Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes got the goals to clinch victory.
Next in the Cup was a visit to Newport County for a first-ever competitive meeting between the sides. Efforts from Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo seemed to have set the course for a routine win, but the
GOAL OF THE MONTH RASMUS HOJLUND V TOTTENHAM
After his first effort in the Premier League won December’s award, Hojlund hit a hot streak and got himself on the scoresheet in each of his next five league appearances. The first of those was a blazing piledriver against
Tottenham, which was voted as January’s premium attempt. Marcus Rashford had put the Spurs defenders on the back foot as he jinked his way into the box from the left, before Hojlund took over, worked the ball into some space and slammed the four-goal contest’s deadlock-breaker into the roof of the net.
League Two side hit back and were level early in the second half.
Antony and Rasmus Hojlund did eventually manage to kill the game off, securing safe passage to the fifth round and setting up another away tie, this time at Nottingham Forest.
Between those two Cup clashes was the one Premier League fixture
PLAYER OF THE MONTH KOBBIE MAINOO
Mainoo played every minute of our wins against Wigan and Spurs. And in our third and final game, away to Newport, he ticked off his latest career milestone, netting his first professional goal for the Reds.
of the month, at home to Tottenham Hotspur. Twice United led against Ange Postecoglou’s side, as Rasmus Hojlund made it back-to-back goals at Old Trafford and Marcus Rashford bagged a welcome effort of his own. But Richarlison and Rodrigo Bentancur netted in response each time to ensure Spurs took a point.
With some teams playing up to three times in the league January, and the Reds’ next league outing coming on 1 February, United were now in ninth in the table, only three points off sixth but 11 behind fourth.
Liverpool topped the table, five points clear of Manchester City (who had a game in hand) and Arsenal, but the Merseysiders were faced with the daunting prospect of a future without Jurgen Klopp, as the German announced his departure at the end of the season after nearly nine years in charge.
Spurs and Aston Villa were vying for a Champions League spot in fourth and fifth respectively, while Newcastle, Brighton, United and
Chelsea made up the top half. Everton had been dragged back into the bottom three, ahead of Burnley and Sheffield United, as Luton’s boosted their survival chances by climbing to 17th (below), with Brentford and Forest casting a nervous eye over their shoulders.
The Africa Cup of Nations also kicked off, with Andre Onana and Sofyan Amrabat flying the flag for the Reds, although sadly both Cameroon and Morocco were knocked out in the Round of 16, as hosts Ivory Coast took the trophy.
The Reds run out ahead of what would be a rollercoaster FA Cup trip to Newport
WIGAN ATHLETIC 0
UNITED 2
Dalot 22, Fernandes 74 pen
Our FA Cup journey began with a relatively comfortable win at Wigan’s DW Stadium as Erik ten Hag’s men took the first step on the road back to Wembley.
Wigan’s counterattacking approach almost paid off when Andre Onana blocked from Thelo Aasgaard in the early stages.
United soon began to cut through the lines and Scott McTominay turned an effort just wide of the post following a sweeping team move.
Wigan did not heed the warning signs and fell behind when Alejandro Garnacho’s cross evaded Rasmus Hojlund at the back post, but Marcus Rashford recovered possession and laid it Diogo Dalot, who found the far corner with a shot full of bend.
Latics goalkeeper Sam Tickle somehow prevented Rashford’s effort crossing the line after an fumble, then stuck out a leg to stop Hojlund opening his FA Cup account. Soon after, Garnacho went on to rattle the crossbar from distance and McTominay headed wide.
It was a similar story after the break, as the impressive Kobbie Mainoo stung the palms of Tickle and another McTominay effort was deflected behind.
DID YOU KNOW?
This was United’s first FA Cup away tie since March 2021, with the previous eight all having been played at Old Trafford or as a neutral fixture at Wembley.
The tie remained in the balance entering the last 20 minutes, but Liam Shaw’s mistimed challenge on Bruno Fernandes resulted in a penalty, which the skipper dispatched. Tickle made three further saves late on, denying Bruno a brace, smothering Rashford’s shot and tipping Garnacho drive wide.
OTHER RESULTS
Arsenal 0-2 Liverpool
Blackburn 5-2 Cambridge
Brentford 1-1 Wolves (2-3replay)
Chelsea 4-0 Preston
Coventry 6-2 Oxford
Crystal Palace 0-0 Everton (0-1replay)
Fulham 1-0 Rotherham
Gillingham 0-4 Sheffield United
Hull 1-1 Birmingham (1-2replay)
Luton 0-0 Bolton (2-1replay)
Maidstone 1-0 Stevenage
Manchester City 5-0 Huddersfield
Middlesbrough 0-1 Aston Villa
Millwall 2-3 Leicester
Newport 1-1 Eastleigh (3-1replay)
Norwich 1-1 Bristol Rovers (3-1replay)
Nottm Forest 2-2 Blackpool (3-2replay)
Peterborough 0-3 Leeds
Plymouth 3-1 Sutton
QPR 2-3 Bournemouth
Sheff Wed 4-0 Cardiff
Shrewsbury 0-1 Wrexham
Southampton 4-0 Walsall
Stoke 2-4 Brighton
Sunderland 0-3 Newcastle
Swansea 2-0 Morecambe
Tottenham 1-0 Burnley
Watford 2-1 Chesterfield
West Brom 4 -1 Aldershot
West Ham 1-1 Bristol City (0-1replay)
AFC Wimbledon 1-3 Ipswich
MAN OF THE MATCH KOBBIE MAINOO
The youngster had the spotlight on him once again, and he put in a dazzling performance in midfield, controlling play while dropping back to contribute hugely in the defensive third as United preserved a clean sheet.
MAN OF THE MATCH RASMUS HOJLUND
UNITED 2
Hojlund 3, Rashford 40
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 2
The Dane got the nod from 42 per cent of our voters, following an admirable display up front. He netted once and set up Rashford for our second to give the hosts the lead for the second time shortly before the half-term break.
Spurs hit back twice to deny Ten Hag’s charges
United’s only Premier League fixture in January finished in a 2-2 draw as Tottenham left Old Trafford with a point following a back-and-forth encounter.
The Reds flew out of the traps and took the lead on three minutes. Rasmus Hojlund collected the ball after Marcus Rashford had been dispossessed and smashed past Guglielmo Vicario for his second league goal in as many games.
Spurs pressure almost resulted in an equaliser when Diogo Dalot intervened to clear off the line from Rodrigo Bentancur. But Ange Postecoglou’s side did level on 18 minutes, as Pedro Porro’s corner was nodded in by Richarlison.
In a chance to retake the lead 10 minutes before the break, Hojlund picked the pocket of Porro out
Richarlison 19, Bentancur 46 DID YOU KNOW?
Martinez made a welcome return after 116 days out injured, last playing v Bayern in September.
wide. The Dane teed up Bruno Fernandes inside the penalty area, but a last-ditch tackle from Cristian Romero saved the visitors.
Rashford’s cross almost forced an own goal from Destiny Udogie, who thanked his lucky stars that the post stood in the way. The Reds did retake the lead just moments later, though, with Rashford passing a low effort beyond Vicario’s reach after a neat one-two with Hojlund.
Spurs hit the bar through Romero at a corner in first-half stoppage time and the visitors immediately found the net after the break. Timo Werner’s driving run and cutback was smashed home at the near post by Bentancur, squaring things up at 2-2.
Lisandro Martinez was greeted with rapturous applause from the stands when he was brought on with almost half an hour to play following a lengthy injury absence.
Postecoglou’s men finished the stronger and enjoyed a succession of corners that came to nothing.
For United, Scott McTominay rose well but steered a late header wide in the last of the action.
EMIRATES FA CUP | FOURTH ROUND SUNDAY 28 JANUARY 2024 | RODNEY PARADE | 4.30PM
NEWPORT COUNTY 2
4
Reds survive Cup scare from League Two hosts
Following a two-week winter break, United returned to action at Newport County’s Rodney Parade in the FA Cup fourth round, where they were pushed hard by the League Two side.
Antony bent a shot wide inside the opening three minutes but soon after he was involved in the build-up to the first goal, collecting a Bruno Fernandes pass down the left and cutting the ball back for the skipper to finish low past Nick Townsend.
Another chance fell to Antony, who lifted a shot over the bar from a promising position, before the second goal came on 13 minutes.
It was a maiden senior strike for Kobbie Mainoo, as he swept the ball into the far corner in expert fashion when picked out by Diogo Dalot.
Only the woodwork denied Alejandro Garnacho number three – a driven attempt that cannoned off the bar. Meanwhile, debutant Altay Bayindir made a first real save when comfortably holding a shot from Will Evans. The hosts did manage to pull one back,
DID YOU KNOW?
Bayindir became the first Turkish player to line up for United, with Turkey becoming the 50th nation to represent the Reds.
however, when Bryn Morris’s spectacular, if deflected, drive gave Bayindir no chance.
The mood had shifted and Newport levelled at the start of the second half when Evans scored via a deflection off Raphael Varane.
There was a sense of relief when United went back in front. Luke Shaw cut in to bend a shot that hit the far post, but Antony was there to steer in the rebound.
As nine minutes of injury-time was announced, Evans fired a long-ranger wide as County battled for a famous result.
But instead United made sure of victory when Rasmus Hojlund converted a loose ball inside the box.
OTHER RESULTS
Blackburn 4-1 Wrexham
Bournemouth 5-0 Swansea
Bristol City 0-0 Nottm Forest (1-1replay,Forestwinonpens)
Chelsea 0-0 Aston Villa (3-1replay)
Everton 1-2 Luton
Fulham 0-2 Newcastle
Ipswich Town 1-2 Maidstone
Leeds United 1-1 Plymouth (4-1replay)
Leicester 3-0 Birmingham
Liverpool 5-2 Norwich
Sheff Wed 1-1 Coventry (1-4replay)
Sheffield United 2-5 Brighton
Tottenham 0-1 Manchester City
Watford 1-1 Southampton (0-3replay)
West Brom 0-2 Wolves
MAN OF THE MATCH BRUNO FERNANDES
The captain was a thorn in Newport’s side for the entire game, netting early and providing his usual energy, determination and flair in midfield – and indeed, all over the pitch – as Erik ten Hag’s side progressed in the Cup.
FEBRUARY
Improved form in the Premier League and FA Cup, as United win five out of six fixtures in the month and move one step closer to a Wembley return...
The Reds were really starting to build some form now, with five wins from six games, including four out of four on the road.
The opening match of this run was undoubtedly the most eventful, away to Wolves. Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford both scored again, and despite the hosts getting
one back from the spot, it all looked all over when Scott McTominay made it 3-1 on 75 minutes.
Wolves, however, then scored twice, including in the fifth minute of stoppage time, to seemingly snatch a highly improbable point. But late drama is a cornerstone of this club, and moments later, Kobbie Mainoo
GOAL OF THE MONTH KOBBIE
MAINOO V WOLVES
Pedro Neto’s 95th-minute leveller looked to have rescued Wolves a point, despite United leading 3-1 with five minutes of normal time to play. Enter Mainoo. The youngster – yet to score his first league goal at this point – puffed
his chest out and put the team on his back as he glided through several defenders to score a last-gasp decider. Receiving the ball with opponents around him, Mainoo jinked away from Joao Gomes, nutmegged Max Kilman, pushed into the space created by Omari Forson’s decoying run and curled home a brilliant low finish.
continued his fine break-out season by curling in a superb winner.
It was a moment to get the hearts racing, and three days later we swept West Ham aside at Old Trafford; Alejandro Garnacho bagging a brace after Hojlund’s opener. The in-form Dane broke the deadlock once more at Villa Park,
PLAYER OF THE MONTH RASMUS
HOJLUND
He may have missed our final two February matches through injury, but he already had enough credit in the bank for this award, having struck five goals in four games, as well as setting up Rashford at Wolves.
before another late winner – this time from McTominay – earned a 2-1 away success; a feat that was repeated at Luton’s Kenilworth Road seven days later, as Hojlund struck twice in the first seven minutes.
Defeat at home to Fulham, despite Harry Maguire appearing to have earned a late point, was a setback, but yet another last-gasp clincher duly arrived in the FA Cup at Forest, with Casemiro putting United into the quarter-finals and a mouthwatering tie against Liverpool.
With five goals in four league outings, Hojlund had clearly found his feet in England’s top flight, and he was rewarded with the division’s Player of the Month award.
Meanwhile, there was another change of management, this time at Crystal Palace. Having been taken ill during a training session, later thankfully making a full recovery, Roy Hodgson stepped down, with Oliver Glasner coming in as his replacement. Despite having failed to win a game since December,
Everton (below) were given a boost and rose to 15th as their points deduction was reduced from 10 to six. It meant Luton took their spot in the drop zone, with Burnley and Sheffield United still occupying the bottom two places.
Meanwhile, a tight and tense battle at the top was being played out by Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal, with just two points separating first from third. It was also Jurgen Klopp’s side who triumphed in the Carabao Cup final, beating Chelsea 1-0 after extra-time.
Singing loud and proud during the thrilling victory at Molineux
MAN OF THE MATCH KOBBIE MAINOO
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS 3
Sarabia 71 pen, Kilman 85, Neto 90+5
UNITED 4
Rashford 5, Hojlund 22, McTominay 75, Mainoo 90+7
Mainoo’s late stunner settles Molineux thriller
A sublime piece of individual skill from teenager Kobbie Mainoo earned three priceless Premier League points for United in a seven-goal classic against Wolves at Molineux.
The deadlock was broken after just five minutes, as Alejandro Garnacho, Diogo Dalot and Rasmus Hojlund combined to set up Marcus Rashford for an expert first-time finish from the edge of the area.
Hojlund himself deservedly made it 2-0 midway through the first half. The Dane’s finish was somewhat fortunate, but his run to the near post earned that luck, superbly anticipating what would come next from Luke Shaw’s overlapping run into the box.
There was more to come before the half-time whistle. Casemiro headed just wide, Hojlund almost earned a goal from closing down Jose Sa, and Bruno Fernandes skewed a great chance wide when set up by Garnacho.
Hojlund and Casemiro also had the ball in the net, only to be denied by offside flags on both occasions.
DID YOU KNOW?
Hojlund became the youngest United player to both score and assist in consecutive Premier League matches (20y 362d).
Following the restart, Wolves began to threaten when Lisandro Martinez made a sensational clearance from Max Kilman’s header, with Andre Onana beaten.
But United chances soon flowed again, as Sa saved from both Casemiro and Hojlund.
Wolves got back into the game when Casemiro was penalised for an apparent clip on Pedro Neto inside the area, and a penalty was awarded. After a VAR check, the decision was confirmed, and Pablo Sarabia scored from the spot.
Scott McTominay looked to have wrapped up the points with an instinctive downward header from a corner just two minutes after coming off the bench: 3-1 United.
But Kilman poked in from within the six-yard box before Neto beat a wrong-footed Onana to agonisingly level the scores in the fifth minute of added time. Yet the final twist was still to come. Mainoo received the ball in the inside-left channel, ghosted past two defenders, and curled the most delectable shot past Sa, off the post and into the net.
After receiving United’s Player of the Month award only hours earlier, Mainoo put in another solid performance to snatch the victory, with his silky stoppage-time winner leading to an ice-cold celebration for every Red to rejoice in.
Mainoo celebrates in style after his brilliant late masterpiece to seal our victory at Molineux
UNITED 3
Hojlund 23, Garnacho 49, 84
WEST HAM UNITED 0
Garnacho at the double as Hammers are beaten
United’s return to Old Trafford marked the closest home fixture to the 66th anniversary of the Munich Air Disaster and a 3-0 win over West Ham was a fitting performance for commemoration.
Following the laying of wreaths by the respective managers, the early minutes saw both sides easing their way into the encounter.
The visitors had the first chance when Jarrod Bowen’s tame effort was easily held by Andre Onana.
United’s goalkeeper was soon required to make a more challenging save, tipping Tomas Soucek’s close-range header from a corner wide of the post.
Bruno Fernandes then went close to breaking the deadlock, forcing visiting stopper Alphonse Areola to push away his long-range effort.
The opening goal came from Rasmus Hojlund. He seized on a ball won well in the centre of the park by Casemiro, before twisting to create an angle and drilling home a shot beyond Areola
Many thought the in-form Dane would double the lead seconds before the half-time whistle,
following his overlapping run with Alejandro Garnacho on the left side. But he striker powered his effort just wide of the post.
Areola had to be replaced at half-time by Lukasz Fabianski and it was a tough introduction for the veteran Pole.
Within five minutes of the restart, Garnacho cut inside from the right wing and let off a left-footed shot that deflected off defender Nayef Aguerd on its way into the net.
Erik ten Hag’s side looked hungry for more towards the hour mark, with every venture forward seeming as though it could result in a goal.
But the loss of Lisandro Martinez to a knee injury, after he initially tried to play on, was a blot on an otherwise positive afternoon.
Diogo Dalot made a heroic block from Bowen after a lofted through ball, throwing himself in front of the shot after sprinting back to deny the one-on-one chance.
Garnacho topped things off in the final 10 minutes, fed by Scott McTominay in the right channel and effortlessly sliding the ball past a motionless Fabianski.
DID YOU KNOW?
On his 21st birthday, Hojlund became the youngest player to net in four straight Premier League games since Spurs’ Dele Alli in 2017.
MAN OF THE MATCH ALEJANDRO GARNACHO
After netting twice and putting in an emphatic display, it was no wonder that two-thirds of the fan vote went to our young winger. His skills and lightning pace caused constant headaches for opposing full-back Emerson Palmieri.
The future’s bright! One of the photos of the season as three of our young stars salute Garnacho’s first goal
MAN OF THE MATCH ANDRE ONANA
ASTON VILLA 1
Douglas Luiz 67
UNITED 2
Hojlund 17, McTominay 86
McTominay’s late header earns impressive win
Scott McTominay’s late bullet header secured United’s third consecutive Premier League win as the Reds defeated Aston Villa.
Diego Carlos twice intervened early on to deny us the perfect start, cutting out Alejandro Garnacho’s low cross bound for an unmarked Rasmus Hojlund and, shortly afterwards, stopping the Dane with a last-ditch tackle.
Garnacho soon fired just wide from outside the box with his left foot, but there wasn’t much longer to wait for a goal.
Harry Maguire leapt magnificently at the far post at a corner, heading the ball back across goal where Hojlund was waiting unmarked to sweep home.
Andre Onana was called into important action twice in quick succession midway through the first half, showing strong hands to parry John McGinn’s powerful 20-yard drive behind, and then rushing out to close down Ollie Watkins.
The hosts continued to attack but United repeatedly closed ranks and shut the door to go into the break deservedly 1-0 ahead.
Onana’s third brilliant save came almost immediately after
8
DID YOU KNOW?
McTominay’s winner was his eighth goal of the season – already ensuring a personal best scoring campaign for the midfielder.
the restart, instinctively blocking from Watkins six yards out.
Diogo Dalot also cleared Jacob Ramsey’s scuffed headed attempt towards the far corner just in front of the goal-line.
Onana’s sharp reflexes denied Clement Lenglet from point-blank range, but the ball was quickly recycled by the home side and Douglas Luiz was in the right place to fire into the roof of the net.
Garnacho then shot inches past the far post, before being denied by compatriot Emiliano Martinez as the game approached the closing stages.
But to the to the jubilation of the away fans, Villa’s resistance was finally broken with four minutes of the 90 remaining.
Kobbie Mainoo’s skill out wide led to a crossing chance for Dalot, whose first-time delivery was powerfully headed home past Martinez by McTominay.
TO THE JUBILATION OF THE AWAY FANS, VILLA’S RESISTANCE WAS BROKEN WITH FOUR MINUTES LEFT
It was a close run thing but the Cameroonian keeper took the majority of the fan vote after making eight vital saves at Villa Park – some of which showcased his sensational reactions to keep us in the contest.
ASTON VILLA UNITED
LUTON TOWN 1
Morris 14
UNITED 2
Hojlund 1, 7
Red-hot Rasmus’s early brace does the damage
Rasmus Hojlund’s sixth and seventh Premier League goals in the space of just six appearances since Christmas delivered United’s fifth successive win, on a first Premier League trip to Luton’s Kenilworth Road.
For the first time since 19 August, boss Erik ten Hag was able to field an unchanged side, and it paid dividends when a long ball forward was misjudged by Hatters defender Amari’i Bell, allowing Hojlund to run through on goal. He slotted past Thomas Kaminski to become the youngest player to score in six straight games in the competition.
United were all over the hosts and Kaminski batted away Marcus Rashford’s deflected shot. But the second goal quickly came when Hojlund cleverly and casually diverted Alejandro Garnacho’s sighter into the far corner with his chest with only seven minutes on the clock.
Not long afterwards, Luton hit back to half the deficit as Carlton Morris nodded former United winger Tahith Chong’s deflected shot beyond an advancing Andre Onana to galvanise the home crowd.
POST-MATCH LEAGUE TABLE
With half an hour gone, a mix-up at the back created an opening for Cauley Woodrow, but Raphael Varane did well to block, and the half-time whistle brought with it a welcome chance to reset.
Substitute Scott McTominay couldn’t get out the way of Bruno Fernandes’s goalbound effort in his first real involvement, before Diogo Dalot was denied by Kaminski.
The Belgian keeper also got down well to deny Rashford’s lashed attempt with his left foot.
When Fernandes bypassed Kaminski by taking the ball round him, Luton had Albert Sambi Lokonga to thank for getting back to block. Fernandes then tested Kaminski from a free-kick, and a frustrated Garnacho curled an effort that was destined for the top corner, only to be deflected behind.
At the other end, Luton were still posing questions with their direct style of play.
Hojlund’s hat-trick hopes were quashed by Kaminski but United hearts were in mouths when Ross Barkley’s flicked header from a stoppage-time corner clipped the top of the United crossbar.
DID YOU KNOW?
With Rasmus Hojlund’s seven-minute double, this was the quickest United had ever taken a 2-0 lead in a Premier League away game.
MAN OF THE MATCH RASMUS HOJLUND
The in-form forward stole the show by netting a quickfire double in the opening seven minutes. With an hard-working performance to accompany the goals, he eased to the Man of the Match prize with 75 per cent of the vote.
UNITED 1
Maguire 89
FULHAM 2
Bassey 65, Iwobi 90+7
Winning run comes to an end in painful fashion
The Reds’ seven-game unbeaten start to 2024 was ended in an agonising manner as Fulham snatched a late victory at the Theatre of Dreams
After an opening 15 minutes devoid of chances, it was the visitors who had the game’s first real openings, as Alex Iwobi twice sent efforts wide.
Rodrigo Muniz then went close from a corner when his header was palmed away by Andre Onana, with Sasa Lukic unable to turn in the rebound.
United gradually grew into the game, and Alejandro Garnacho unleashed a signature curling strike from the left that Antonee Robinson judged well to head clear.
Diogo Dalot then took aim, encouraged by the crowd, grazing the post with a thunderous effort.
The Cottagers were lift similarly frustrated when Muniz shrugged off Victor Lindelof and pinged his shot against the woodwork.
Ex-Red Andreas Pereira had an attempt beaten away by Onana, and Garnacho’s next opportunity was tipped behind by Bernd Leno as the first half ended goalless.
DID YOU KNOW?
A positive for United was a first senior start for young attacker Omari Forson, who had made his Reds debut in January as a substitute against Wigan.
Fulham struck first on 65 minutes. Andreas’s corner fell to Calvin Bassey, whose first attempt was blocked, before he rifled high into the roof of the net.
United injected a sense of urgency in a bid to equalise, and Bruno Fernandes did well to create space for an opening before his eventual shot was held by Leno.
Harry Maguire thumped a header over from Christian Eriksen’s corner, but the centre-back would soon have the Reds on terms.
Taking position further up the pitch, he held the ball up well before dinking it to the back post, with Garnacho bringing the ball down and eventually finding Bruno on the edge of the area. Our captain looked to curl one into the far corner, where Leno palmed it away into the path of Maguire, who was alert enough to knock it home.
Pressure continued to mount on the visitors’ goal, with Leno repelling a couple of Fernandes attempts.
But it was instead Fulham who grabbed a winner, as Adama Traore set up Iwobi to clip a low finish in past the wrong-footed Onana and leave Old Trafford stunned.
NOTTINGHAM FOREST 0 UNITED 1
Casemiro
89
Casemiro wins it late to book a last-eight spot
An 89th-minute winner from Casemiro ensured United beat Nottingham Forest 1-0 in a closely contested FA Cup fifth-round tie at the City Ground.
Bruno Fernandes was the architect of a huge early chance for the Reds, playing a low ball across the penalty area that Antony smashed against the crossbar with a first-time effort.
United’s fast start continued when Scott McTominay’s point-blank header was saved by Matt Turner.
At the other end, Forest’s first real chance was a tame Divock Origi shot stopped by Andre Onana.
Taiwo Awoniyi was keen to make his presence felt, with early efforts minutes apart blocked by Victor Lindelof, and saved by Onana.
OTHER RESULTS
Blackburn 1-1 Newcastle (3-4onpens)
Bournemouth 0-1 Leicester (aet)
Chelsea 3-2 Leeds
Coventry City 5-0 Maidstone
Liverpool 3-0 Southampton
Luton 2-6 Manchester City
Wolves 1-0 Brighton
DID YOU KNOW?
United reached a 48th FA Cup quarter-final – the most of any team in the competition’s long history.
Turner spectacularly clawed out another McTominay header, while Neco Williams and Fernandes had opportunities before half-time.
Yet neither team was truly on top despite the frequency of chances.
Awoniyi was the home side’s biggest goal threat in the first half and maintained that status early in the second, testing Onana within four minutes of the restart.
The Reds goalkeeper also parried away a powerful left-footed attempt from Origi moments later.
As United weathered a storm and regained some control, a 20-yard Antony snapshot was caught by Turner, before Marcus Rashford had a penalty appeal waved away after being sandwiched.
Many in the away end held their breath as Fernandes produced an innovative outside-of-the-boot curler which narrowly evaded the goal in the 63rd minute.
Shortly after, Fernandes connected with Antony’s pass, only to see it comfortably gathered by Turner in the Forest goal.
The contest could have swung either way in the closing stages, but it was United who snatched victory.
With a little more than a minute of normal time left, a low Fernandes free-kick from the left flank bounced up off the turf and was met by the stooping head of Casemiro to seal passage to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup without the need for extra-time, and an enticing home tie against Liverpool.
MAN OF THE MATCH CASEMIRO
A brilliant header in the final moments secured United’s victory, with the Brazilian a very worthy matchwinner following a display of sharp decision making, alongside hard work and good communication in midfield.
MARCH
Another mixed bag across three Premier League games, alongside one of our greatest triumphs over Liverpool to book an FA Cup semi-final spot...
This month saw a win, a draw and a loss for the Reds in the league, starting with defeat away in the derby, but only after a solid start though Marcus Rashford’s opener and two goals in the final 10 minutes from the hosts. Rashford’s penalty after Bruno Fernandes scored with a spot-kick
of his own resulted in a 2-0 home win over Everton, before Mason Mount’s injury-time effort – his first for the club – was frustratingly cancelled out by an even later Brentford goal. The standout result of the month, however, came in the FA Cup quarter-final, as Liverpool visited Old Trafford on a remarkable
GOAL OF THE MONTH AMAD V LIVERPOOL
The match-winning nature of Amad’s extraordinary goal against Liverpool was likely decisive in it being picked ahead of Rashford’s derby thunderbolt in our vote, but we won’t be taking any credit away from the
technique involved in the finish. Having received the ball from Garnacho on the break, and with Conor Bradley scampering across to close him down, Amad cleverly took the ball away from the defender before managing to reverse a low strike back across the goal, just out of the reach of a diving Caoimhin Kelleher.
afternoon. After Scott McTominay’s earlier opener, the visitors looked to have turned things around and were heading for the last four following goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Mohamed Salah, only for Antony to send the game to extra-time after coming off the bench. Liverpool led again through Harvey Elliott’s
PLAYER OF THE MONTH ANDRE ONANA
Results were mixed in March, but Andre’s displays were consistent, earning him a first POTM prize. After some big saves v Liverpool in the Cup, a fine double stop was a highlight in the draw away to Brentford.
deflected effort, but Rashford made it 3-3, before – in the 121st minute – United won possession when defending a corner, broke up field, and Alejandro Garnacho set up Amad to roll the ball into the corner. He was sent off after removing his shirt in celebration, but we very much doubt he cared all that much, as Old Trafford erupted into bedlam.
United’s opponents for the semi-finals would be Coventry, who produced a stunning late turnaround of their own away to Wolves (right), while Manchester City and Chelsea would lock horns in the other semi.
Back in the league, Nottingham Forest became the second team to incur a points deduction in 2023/24, having four chalked off for, like Everton, breaching profit and sustainability rules. By the end of the month, Forest were only outside the drop zone on goal difference. Still Luton, Burnley and Sheffield United made up the bottom three, although Everton were only three points clear of danger.
United had ended Jurgen Klopp’s hopes of signing off with four trophies in his final campaign as Liverpool boss, but his side were still top of the pile, two points ahead of Arsenal and three clear of City.
Erik ten Hag’s men were in sixth, and despite having a game in hand over fourth-placed Aston Villa, an 11-point deficit meant that Champions League football for 2024/25 was starting to look unlikely at this point in the campaign.
MANCHESTER CITY 3
Foden 56, 80, Haaland 90+1
UNITED 1
Rashford’s rocket not enough as City fight back
A resilient United display was unfortunately not enough to claim any points from the Manchester derby after Marcus Rashford’s spectacular early strike at Etihad Stadium.
Bruno Fernandes started the game in an unfamiliar ‘false 9’ position as Erik ten Hag planned to overload midfield, and the skipper was the furthest player forward as Andre Onana fed him with a long goal-kick in the eighth minute. Fernandes controlled the ball and laid it back to Rashford, whose unstoppable 25-yard drive kissed Ederson’s crossbar before nestling in the back of the net.
The hosts stuck to their calm, possession-centric game and Phil Foden soon tested Onana, who saved with his feet and later denied the same player with his left hand, before also thwarting Rodri’s volley.
Jonny Evans, playing in his first away derby since 2012, was marshalling the backline superbly alongside Raphael Varane and the pair helped restrict Erling Haaland’s involvement until the prolific
Rashford 8 DID YOU KNOW?
Norwegian somehow sidefooted over the top of the crossbar with the goal gaping. Jeremy Doku was the next to test the reflexes of Onana when the second half began.
But the hosts were on a run of scoring in 48 straight top-flight home games and, on 56 minutes, Foden’s left-footed arrow made it 1-1 to keep that streak going, an effort equally as good as Rashford’s.
Foden and Kevin De Bruyne began to pull the strings and the Reds sought to defend deep and keep space at a premium.
The opportunities were not being created at the speed they were in the first period and Onana continued to claim the majority of the balls flung into his six-yard box.
City were relentless though and the decisive moment came with 10 minutes to play, Foden swapping a one-two with Julian Alvarez and firing into the bottom corner.
United fought hard and remained in the contest until the end, but when Rodri dispossessed Sofyan Amrabat in stoppage time, Haaland was there to slip the ball beyond Onana.
UNITED 2
EVERTON 0
Pair of penalties help Reds pick up three points
A brace of first-half penalties from Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford ensured United returned to winning ways in the Premier League with a 2-0 victory over Everton.
The Toffees threatened first when a teasing Dwight McNeil free-kick evaded his team-mates and was gratefully grasped by Andre Onana.
Marcus Rashford was soon denied a shot at goal from a promising position, winning a corner that Raphael Varane headed straight at keeper Jordan Pickford.
The next foray forward led to the opening goal as Alejandro Garnacho was brought down by James Tarkowski inside the box. Fernandes stepped up and put just enough on the penalty to beat Pickford low to the England goalkeeper’s left.
McNeil and Fernandes both missed the target as the sides traded more chances, while
the United skipper then tested Pickford with a free-kick from the edge of the box.
James Garner’s curler also called Onana into action, and the Toffees would pay the price for missed chances when Garnacho was felled by Ben Godfrey for a second penalty.
Fernandes this time handed the duties to Rashford, but it was the same result as he converted after sending Pickford the wrong way.
An eventful opening half drew to a close with Victor Lindelof being denied by Pickford and Raphael Varane blocking from McNeil.
Two Garnacho attempts in the second period couldn’t extend United’s lead, while Onana kept out Abdoulaye Doucoure’s ploy to sneak the ball inside the near post.
Pickford was also equal to a low Fernandes drive, before denying a scuffed shot from Lindelof from the subsequent corner.
The away side kept pushing for a route back into the battle, but big chances continued to evade them and United came on stronger with time ticking away.
The Reds were soon awarded a third penalty, but an offside flag preceded the foul on Rashford.
MAN OF THE MATCH ALEJANDRO GARNACHO
Fernandes became our all-time leading scorer of penalties, overtaking the record held by Ruud van Nistelrooy.
A clear winner in the vote, with the forward having an impressive 49 touches in the game, including 10 inside the opponents’ box. Crucially, he won two penalties that were both tucked away to help United claim the victory.
UNITED 4
McTominay 10, Antony 87, Rashford 112, Amad 120+1
LIVERPOOL 3
Mac Allister 44, Salah 45+2, Elliott 105 (after extra-time)
Amad strikes to win an all-time FA Cup classic
United edged out Liverpool to triumph in a seven-goal FA Cup quarter-final thriller – a game that will go down as one of the most memorable in club history.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka was the first to go close when his shot was comfortably held by Caoimhin Kelleher, who also tipped wide Marcus Rashford’s early curler.
The early pressure paid off when the Liverpool goalkeeper parried Alejandro Garnacho’s attempt and Scott McTominay ensured nobody would reach the rebound before him to score.
Andre Onana had been a spectator for much of the first half, until a counter down the left resulted in Luis Diaz drilling a shot into the Cameroonian’s strong hands.
Liverpool then thought they had equalised through Wataru Endo, but were denied as Mohamed Salah was shown to be marginally offside during the build-up. United’s defence
was, however, breached shortly before the interval through Alexis Mac Allister, whose effort near the edge of the box took a slight deflection on its way into the net.
Liverpool then went ahead in first half stoppage time as Salah swept up the rebound after Onana had denied Darwin Nunez.
The away side almost went further ahead on the hour mark as Onana turned away a thundering close-range effort from Nunez, followed by Rasmus Hojlund’s heroic block to deny Diaz at close-range.
Throwing everything forward to level, the all-out-attack approach from Erik ten Hag paid off when Alejandro Garnacho managed to bundle to ball to Antony on 87 minutes. The Brazilian was surrounded but twisted to squeeze in a low shot that nestled into the bottom corner.
United began extra-time with momentum, although Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott was the next player to find the net from just outside the box, a deflection into the ground taking the ball beyond Onana.
But when it appeared the tie was slipping away, McTominay fed Rashford, who finished coolly to level.
As penalties beckoned, Garnacho led a break from a Liverpool corner, driving forward and finding Amad to roll the ball into bottom far corner.
MAN OF THE MATCH AMAD
It was the Ivory Coast international who took the spotlight with his winner in the dying embers of extra–time, but he did plenty more to impress throughout his 35 minutes on the pitch, which even a red card couldn’t spoil.
Liverpool’s long wait for an FA Cup win at Old Trafford went on, with their last such victory coming in 1921.
Old Trafford erupted and the young winger was even sent off for a second yellow card after removing his shirt in the celebrations – though it was tough for anyone with United connections to worry at this point!
Two late goals lead to rollercoaster of emotions BRENTFORD 1
Ajer 90+9
UNITED 1
Mount 90+6
Two stoppage-time goals saw the Premier League points shared in a dramatic climax to United’s meeting with Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium.
The Reds began with confidence until the hosts slowly emerged as the first half’s dominant force.
Amid resilient United defending, there was no let-up from Brentford as Ivan Toney hit the post from an astute through ball, and then Mathias Jorgensen clipped the top of the bar with another header.
Toney and Yoane Wissa both fired over as the first half drew to a close, with United struggling to get forward or sustain periods of possession.
Yet, of Brentford’s 13 attempts on goal before the break, only one had so far found the target.
As the sides came back out after the break, there were flickers of a greater attacking impulse from Erik ten Hag’s visiting Reds.
Rasmus Hojlund lost his footing upon being played in, though still managed to force an effort goalwards, drawing a reflex save from Mark Flekken.
DID YOU KNOW?
Four of the five goals in the two ’23/24 meetings between the sides were scored in stoppage time.
Before long, the Bees’ pressure was reasserted, with Wissa and Toney each missing the target.
And, having lost Raphael Varane to injury at half-time, United were also then forced to deal without Victor Lindelof due to a knock.
It prompted a return for Lisandro Martinez into the defence, but he couldn’t stem the tide of chances.
VAR ruled Toney to be just offside when he put the ball in the net, before substitute Bryan Mbeumo rattled the United bar with another presentable chance.
Nine minutes of stoppage time were indicated by the fourth official following a clash of heads between Diogo Dalot and Neal Maupay, and this period would see both sides get their goals.
Mason Mount fired United into an unlikely lead based on the balance of play, the substitute calmly finishing after a short pass from Casemiro.
But Brentford refused to throw in the towel and launched their response with a long kick upfield.
Toney controlled the ball and pulled it back towards the penalty spot where Kristoffer Ajer arrived to side-foot a last-gasp equaliser.
MAN OF THE MATCH ANDRE ONANA
Picking up his fourth such award of his debut season in Manchester, Onana displayed real quality with a string of important saves – most notably a superb double stop to thwart the Bees’ dangerous attackers.
APRIL
There were goals aplenty during United’s six games in April, with 29 in total and five matches including at least four being scored
Six of those came in the FA Cup semi-final against Coventry. Scott McTominay, Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes had the Reds in control before the hour, and while the Championship outfit showed incredible spirit to fight back and take the game to extra-time – and so nearly won it in the final minute – it was ultimately United who
A high-scoring league run brings plenty of entertainment, while the Reds reach a 22nd FA Cup final in dramatic fashion against Coventry...
triumphed on penalties, setting up a repeat of last year’s final against Manchester City.
As far as Premier League matters were concerned, there was disappointment at Stamford Bridge, as Chelsea scored in the 100th and 101st minutes to snatch victory, followed by successive 2-2 draws, at home to Liverpool (featuring another superb Kobbie Mainoo goal) and away to Bournemouth.
Bottom side Sheffield United were on the brink of relegation when they visited Old Trafford, but showed
GOAL OF THE MONTH KOBBIE MAINOO V LIVERPOOL
A goal eerily akin to Federico Macheda’s curler against Villa, also at the Stretford End, just two days after its 15-year anniversary. Like for Macheda, the effort was Mainoo’s first senior strike at Old Trafford, and he couldn’t have
dreamt it coming in a much better scenario than edging us in front v Liverpool. He took Wan-Bissaka’s fizzed pass under his control, with his back to goal, before turning and bending the ball inside the far post. The celebrations were brilliant, and it’s just a shame it wasn’t a match-winner, following Salah’s late penalty to level.
fight to surprisingly twice lead either side of Maguire’s equaliser, before a Fernandes brace and a late goal from Rasmus Hojlund gave the Reds the win. The Blades’ relegation would be confirmed three days later as they lost to Newcastle (right).
Another struggling side visited M16 next, although Burnley managed to leave with a useful point, as Zeki Amdouni scored a late penalty after Antony had made it 1-0. It meant United went into the final month of the season knowing a top-four finish was no longer possible.
PLAYER OF THE MONTH BRUNO FERNANDES
Bruno came to the fore once again in the campaign’s penultimate month, scoring seven goals, alongside two assists, in six games – no wonder he took 72 per cent of the fan vote for POTM.
Elsewhere, Everton were deducted another two points, taking their new total to eight, after further profit and sustainability breaches, but a strong run of form meant they were guaranteed to stay up by the end of April. Indeed, with Sheffield United now down, it would be two from three of Nottingham Forest (below right), Luton and Burnley.
Liverpool’s title challenge collapsed as they won just one of their six league outings, crucially dropping points at both Old Trafford and Goodison Park, and while
Arsenal were now top, their damaging home loss to Aston Villa meant City now had control of their own destiny, sitting in second and one point off first but with a game in hand.
Any chance of English success in UEFA competitions seemed to be fading fast, as both City and Arsenal were knocked out of the Champions League, while Liverpool and West Ham exited the Europa League, leaving Aston Villa as the Premier League’s sole remaining representative, in the Europa Conference League semi-finals.
A glorious Wembley day for an extraordinary FA Cup semi-final
CHELSEA 4
Gallagher 4, Palmer 19 pen, 90+10 pen, 90+11
UNITED 3
Garnacho 34, 67, Fernandes 39
Topsy-turvy encounter ends in late heartbreak
An impressive United comeback ultimately proved in vain as Chelsea conjured up their own recovery in stoppage-time to inflict an agonising 4-3 league defeat at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea’s early pressure paid instant dividends when right-back Malo Gusto’s deflected low delivery fell kindly for Conor Gallagher inside the United box, and the England man swept a finish beyond Andre Onana.
Erik ten Hag’s side responded with efforts from Bruno Fernandes, blocked, and Antony, saved.
But Chelsea fired a warning when Mykhailo Mudryk’s shot dropped just wide of the far post, and this was soon followed up by the home side doubling their advantage.
Marc Cucurella lost his footing in the penalty area under a challenge by Antony, with Cole Palmer scoring past Onana from the spot.
Chelsea were punished for some earlier missed chances when United deservedly drew level with two goals in the space of just five minutes before the half-time break.
Alejandro Garnacho benefited when Moises Caicedo conceded possession, charging forward and
3
DID YOU KNOW?
Garnacho became the first teenager to score two or more goals in three games of a Premier League season since Michael Owen in 1998/99.
finishing coolly past Djordje Petrovic in the Chelsea goal. Moments later, following a sprawling Onana save to deny Enzo Fernandez, United’s Fernandes buried a powerful header at the back post into the net, from Diogo Dalot’s cross: 2-2.
There was then relief when Gallagher’s last shot of the half cannoned back off the post.
After the restart, Harry Maguire threatened a fifth goal of the frenetic game after he went on a barnstorming run and unleashed a shot that narrowly missed the target.
Casemiro and Palmer also had efforts and the chaos needed a cutting edge, thankfully provided by Antony as he bent a cross with the outside of his left foot for Garnacho to stoop and bravely head in. Advantage United.
But everything turned again when, in the 100th minute, Palmer converted his second spot-kick of the night after Dalot’s challenge on substitute Carney Chukwuemeka. And there was still time for Palmer to receive a pass from a right-sided corner and fire home a deflected shot, delivering the final hammer blow of an extraordinary contest.
UNITED 2
Fernandes 50, Mainoo 67
LIVERPOOL 2
Diaz 23, Salah 84 pen
Two stunning United goals light up lively clash
Spectacular strikes from Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo helped United to a 2-2 draw in another riveting clash with rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford.
It started every bit the energetic, blow-for-blow bout witnessed on the same pitch three weeks earlier in the FA Cup.
Alejandro Garnacho had the ball in the net after just 180 seconds by rounding goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, but was ruled offside.
One blink later, Andre Onana repelled a powerful Dominik Szoboszlai shot with a strong hand.
A set-piece was United’s undoing for the opener, when Darwin Nunez’s flick on at a Liverpool corner was stabbed in from close range at the back post by Luis Diaz.
The visitors began to dominate and sent warning shots from Salah and Nunez that missed the target.
MAINOO SPAN TO DISPATCH AN INSTINCTIVE CURLED SHOT INTO THE TOP CORNER
DID YOU KNOW?
Ten Hag lost just one of his five meetings with Klopp’s Liverpool before Klopp’s summer exit, United winning two and drawing two since the start of the 2022/23 season.
The onslaught of Liverpudlian pressure prior to half-time was always going to need a moment of magic if it was to be disrupted after the restart, and it duly arrived.
A misplaced pass across the halfway line from Jarell Quansah invited Fernandes to spot Kelleher stranded in no-man’s land, and Bruno let off an audacious strike from inside the centre circle that fell inside the right-side post.
The spectacular long-range strike galvanised Erik ten Hag’s side, with United finding routes to goal easier to come by and only being denied on a couple of occasions by the palms of Kelleher.
But there was no stopping Mainoo on 67 minutes, as he received the ball in the box with his back to goal and span to dispatch an instinctive curled shot which nestled perfectly in the top corner.
With six minutes to play, Liverpool got their leveller from the penalty spot when Aaron Wan-Bissaka went to ground trying to steal the ball from Harvey Elliott. Salah converted.
Further chances came at both ends but none were taken and the Premier League points were shared.
MAN OF THE MATCH KOBBIE MAINOO
Mainoo’s maiden goal at the Theatre of Dreams was the highlight of another milestone day for our no.37, as he showed the extent of his talent in a busy midfield, getting up and down the pitch to help his team-mates.
BOURNEMOUTH 2
Solanke 16, Kluivert 36
UNITED 2
Fernandes 31, 65 pen
Bruno hits back twice to save us on south coast
United were held to a 2-2 draw for the second consecutive weekend in the Premier League, as Bruno Fernandes netted equalisers in each half against Bournemouth at Vitality Stadium.
The home side had stunned Old Trafford with a 3-0 win in December and were threatening to inflict a double over United.
Their first fruitful foray forward saw Dominic Solanke take advantage of an unfortunate Willy Kambwala slip to fire past Andre Onana for the opening goal on 16 minutes.
Marcus Rashford almost levelled just three minutes later, firing into the side netting after a weaving run.
But the Reds were under the cosh and, not for the first time, Fernandes rode to the rescue by finding a way to restore parity for the visitors against the run of play.
Alejandro Garnacho’s cutback from the right clipped a defender inside the six-yard box and the skipper lashed a volley into the roof of the net to put us back on level terms.
Bournemouth didn’t wait long to retake the lead. Justin Kluivert had more time than he would have expected in the penalty area as he
sized up his finish and lashed the ball past Onana. Milos Kerkez could then have made it three for the Cherries, bouncing his first attempt into the ground and on to the bar, before awkwardly nodding the rebound over the top.
Kluivert’s close-range volley was soon also denied by a breathtaking Onana save as United attempted to withstand the home barrage. The game was noticeably different in its second 45 minutes, being more even in terms of possession and falling short of the first half’s attacking intensity. Mercifully, Onana had much less to do and a stronger foothold provided a platform for United to equalise for the second time.
Kobbie Mainoo’s deflected shot ricocheted into the arm of Adam Smith, prompting the referee to point to the spot. VAR didn’t overrule and, against a chorus of boos from the home supporters, Fernandes converted the spot-kick.
When Ryan Christie’s run into the box was halted by Kambwala, the hosts got a stoppage-time penalty of their own, only for VAR to rule that contact was made outside the area.
DID YOU KNOW?
This was the 10th time in 227 United appearances that Fernandes scored two or more goals in a single game.
MAN OF THE MATCH BRUNO FERNANDES
It was hard to look beyond the impact of the skipper during a challenging afternoon on the south coast – a game which saw Fernandes having to twice haul the Reds level against the Cherries in a game that would ultimately finish level.
COVENTRY CITY 3
Simms 71, O’Hare 79, Wright 90+5 pen
UNITED 3
McTominay 23, Maguire 45+1, Fernandes 58 (after extra-time, United win 4-2 on penalties)
Reds survive big scare to reach final on penalties
United needed penalties to progress to a second successive FA Cup final after a dramatic semi-final clash with Coventry City at Wembley Stadium.
Early United pressure paid off midway through the first half when the overlapping Diogo Dalot put in a first-time cross that was turned into an empty net by Scott McTominay at close-range.
Coventry had been prolific in previous rounds and it took a vital last-ditch intervention from Dalot to prevent Ellis Simms from tapping in an equaliser.
Dalot’s next burst forward produced a chance for Marcus Rashford, who saw his effort parried on to the crossbar by Bradley Collins.
Yet it was 2-0 from the resultant corner, as Harry Maguire guided the ball back across the goal and into the net with his head.
Just before the hour mark, Fernandes got a third after taking over possession from Rashford in the box and firing a low strike that
OTHER RESULT
Manchester City 1-0 Chelsea
DID YOU KNOW?
Coventry boss Mark Robins played in the Reds’ last FA Cup semi that ended 3-3 – against Oldham in 1990.
deflected in. Yet a spirited Coventry were not for fading as proceedings ticked into the final 20 minutes, pulling one back as Simms swept the ball just inside the near post.
The momentum swung for the Championship team and Callum O’Hare further reduced the deficit when his long-range effort looped up off Aaron Wan-Bissaka and into the goal to make it 3-2 to United.
Onana saved from Victor Torp, but there was more drama when Luis Binks’s close-range effort in the 93rd minute was adjudged to have struck the arm of Wan-Bissaka, and Haji Wright converted the penalty to send the game into an extra 30 minutes.
Fernandes hit the bar in extra-time as United regained some much-needed control, before Simms did similar in the second half of the added period.
A shoot-out was fast approaching but more chaos saw a would-be Coventry goal in stoppage time ruled out for an offside in the build-up to Torp’s finish and following a lengthy VAR check.
Casemiro was denied with the opening penalty of the shoot-out, before Wright and then Dalot each scored theirs. Torp and Christian Eriksen followed suit, with Onana then saving from O’Hare.
Fernandes gave United the lead before Coventry captain Ben Sheaf blazed over, setting it up for Rasmus Hojlund to fire us into a record 22nd FA Cup final, much to the relief of every watching Red.
MAN OF THE MATCH BRUNO FERNANDES
A deserved second consecutive award for our Portuguese midfielder, whose influential performance helped United take a 3-0 lead, before he was needed to pull his team through extra-time and a nail-biting shoot-out.
MAN OF THE MATCH BRUNO FERNANDES
UNITED 4
Maguire 42, Fernandes 61 pen, 81, Hojlund 85
SHEFFIELD UNITED 2
Bogle 35, Brereton Diaz 50
Entertaining league tussle sees Blades blunted
Erik ten Hag’s Reds returned to winning ways in the Premier League in an eventful 4-2 win over struggling Sheffield United.
Blades goalkeeper Wes Foderingham was troubled in the first minutes when forced to tip wide from Diogo Dalot.
Casemiro then twice reached corner deliveries without making clean contact, before Foderingham saved from Alejandro Garnacho.
But there was a price to pay for not capitalising on the early pressure as Jayden Bogle intercepted Andre Onana’s pass to Dalot and slotted the ball inside the near post to score.
The Reds found a reply less than 10 minutes later when Garnacho collected a Fernandes free-kick on the left flank, crossing into the penalty area for Maguire to expertly head in against his boyhood team.
Garnacho almost provided the lead seconds later, a close-range effort kept out by Foderingham’s reactive save.
United already had work to do in the second half, yet it was the visitors
DID YOU KNOW?
Bruno’s brace helped him reach double figures for league goals for the third time in the last four seasons.
who once again made their mark as Ben Brereton Diaz latched on to a Ben Osborn cut-back a few yards out to retake the lead.
There was drama on the hour mark when Maguire was pulled down inside the box, and the referee’s whistle sounded for a penalty just as Dalot managed to scramble the loose ball into the Blades’ net. Play was brought back to the spot, although Bruno Fernandes ensured the controversy didn’t last by scoring.
The captain soon had the Reds ahead, accepting the invitation from the stands to shoot and thundering a left-footed attempt beyond the grasp of Foderingham.
Fernandes then turned provider when he drilled a pass across the face of goal for Rasmus Hojlund to poke home and make sure of the three points.
There was also time for Ethan Wheatley to come on as United’s 250th Academy debutant, and he almost had a goal to celebrate when set up by the magnificent Fernandes.
A remarkable 86 per cent of voters considered Fernandes worthy of his third Man of the Match award in a row, after yet another display of excellence and leadership, not to mention two goals to further his tally for the season.
UNITED 1
Antony 79
BURNLEY 1
Amdouni 87 pen
Frustration for United after late Clarets penalty
United dropped points against Burnley at Old Trafford as a result of some late penalty drama, at the end of a tense Premier League encounter.
The away side threatened early when David Datro Fofana shot straight at Andre Onana.
Moments later, Alejandro Garnacho put United’s first opportunity over the bar, while Antony forced a save from Arijanet Muric and later dragged a shot wide.
It was all United and Muric palmed a powerful shot from Bruno Fernandes on to the post.
But from Burnley’s first corner, which was only partially cleared, Wilson Odobert released a rocket on the edge of the box that looked goalbound until it was tipped over by the alert Onana.
The Cameroonian also pulled off a fantastic reflex save when Josh Cullen’s effort was headed goalwards by Lyle Foster. Onana was in action again as Foster outran Harry Maguire down the right, our keeper saving with his chest.
At the other end, a promising Reds move ended with Garnacho finding the side-netting. The same
player created the first real chance of the second half, darting down the left and cutting the ball back for Antony, who was once more denied by goalkeeper Muric.
United were itching for an opener and Garnacho had another chance following a corner, forcing Muric into a fingertip save over the bar.
The breakthrough finally came with 11 minutes of the 90 left as Antony picked off a stray pass from Sander Berge, raced towards goal and kept both his cool and his feet to finish under pressure into the bottom corner.
Frustratingly, Burnley were given a way back into the game eight minutes later as Onana caught substitute Zeki Amdouni in the box when trying to punch the ball clear.
The initial claims were waved away until VAR intervened and instructed the referee to look again. He changed his mind and Amdouni stepped up to score.
Searching for a winner, United then had a penalty claim for a potential handball turned down. And then, with the game’s final big chance, Onana pulled off another big save to deny Odobert.
MAN OF THE MATCH ANTONY
United’s six fixtures in all competitions in April produced 29 goals – that’s an average of 4.83 goals per game.
The Brazilian gave United the lead after 79 minutes, earning him the bulk of the praise and recognition from supporters in the Man of the Match voting – United’s no.21 claiming his first such award of the season.
MAY
United’s season ended in memorable fashion, as we silenced the critics to beat favourites Manchester City and lift the FA Cup for the 13th time.
After a testing campaign, the Reds showed the kind of resilience for which the club has become renowned, and typically with youth products at the forefront, as Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo scored before a late City fightback was repelled in a famous win. Champions League football for ’24/25 may not have been achieved,
After a shaky start, the season’s final month sees back-to-back wins to end our league campaign, before a wonderful performance at Wembley to beat our Manchester rivals...
but trophies are what the history books will remember, and it was another one in the cabinet, as well as two in two years for Erik ten Hag.
The league campaign concluded with two wins and two defeats in May. After being beaten by Crystal Palace and Arsenal, the Reds bounced back to impressively defeat Newcastle and Brighton before the showpiece occasion at Wembley, ultimately finishing in eighth place.
Victory in the Cup final was a fitting send-off for Raphael Varane, who made his final appearance
GOAL OF THE MONTH KOBBIE MAINOO V MAN CITY
If you’re like us, you’ll have lost count of how many times you’ve watched this goal. While its significance in securing a trophy is a factor, the flowing nature of its move cements it as one to revisit again and again. The midfielder
was involved early in the build-up, spreading the ball out to Rashford on the left, and when his crossfield pass sought out the tricky feet of Garnacho, United were in business. The latter travelled before picking out Bruno Fernandes on the edge of the box, who intelligently reverses the ball for Mainoo to finish first time. Beautiful stuff.
before departing at the end of his contract at the end of the campaign. Compatriot Anthony Martial also said goodbye after nine seasons at Old Trafford.
Defeating City was made all the more impressive as it came in the wake of Pep Guardiola’s team securing their fourth straight Premier League title, edging out Arsenal on the final day. Liverpool and the outgoing Jurgen Klopp came third, while Aston Villa were fourth.
Taking the other European places were Tottenham and United in the
PLAYER OF THE MONTH KOBBIE MAINOO
Starting all five games, Kobbie coolly opened the scoring against Newcastle, before a goalscoring, MOTM display in the Cup final. By month’s end he’d also be named in England’s Euro 2024 squad.
Europa League, while the Europa Conference League spot went to Chelsea. Those competitions were won by Atalanta and Olympiacos in 2023/24, while Real Madrid lifted the Champions League for the 15th time as they beat Borussia Dortmund at Wembley (below).
As had seemed likely for the majority of the season, the three sides who had been promoted the previous year – Luton, Burnley and Sheffield United – made a swift return to the Championship, to be replaced by Leicester and
Southampton, after a year away each, and Ipswich, back in the top flight for the first time since 2002.
The end of the campaign brought with it numerous managerial departures: as well as the already confirmed exit of Klopp, May saw Mauricio Pochettino, David Moyes and Robert De Zerbi leave Chelsea, West Ham and Brighton respectively. Vincent Kompany surprisingly swapped relegated Burnley for Bayern Munich (below).
And so, that was that for another season. There were tough spells for
United, but the campaign ultimately ended in celebration, and with young talents such as Rasmus Hojlund, Garnacho and Mainoo breaking through, there’s plenty of reason to believe in a positive 2024/25 and beyond for the Reds. Bring it on!
The FA Cup final – and the season – ends in celebration as the final whistle sounds at Wembley Stadium on 25 May
CRYSTAL PALACE 4
UNITED 0
Rough night for Reds as Palace ease to victory
Two goals either side of half-time saw United beaten 4-0 by Crystal Palace on a difficult evening in south-east London.
The Eagles had an early penalty appeal turned down when Tyrick Mitchell lost his footing under pressure, while both teams had put together some encouraging early sequences of play to no avail.
Then came the opening goal, via a penetrative run from Michael Olise after receiving the ball from a throw-in just inside his own half.
He jinked his way towards the penalty area, unleashing a low strike across Andre Onana and into the bottom corner of the net.
Daniel Munoz was also causing problems up and down the flank. After blocking a shot from Mason Mount on our no.7’s first start since November, the Palace wing-back combined with Olise, cutting the ball back, only for the attempt to hit team-mate Jean-Philippe Mateta before it reached the goal.
Another Olise chance made by Mitchell on the opposite side was gratefully scooped up by Onana.
United had the ball in the net but Rasmus Hojlund was penalised for jumping with goalkeeper Dean Henderson as he looked to get a decisive touch.
After that, the second from Palace, just before half-time, was particularly frustrating as the in-form Mateta dribbled past Jonny Evans to rifle in.
Onana was needed to stop Eberechi Eze’s scuffed shot after the restart, before another United goal was ruled out – this time Casemiro was flagged offside as he bundled in a rebound from his own header.
Palace got their third after mounting a series of dangerous attacks. Mitchell was the one to do it, turning in Joachim Andersen’s ball across the six-yard box.
A bad night got worse when Olise scored his second goal. Munoz won the ball from Casemiro near the touchline and played the ball back to his winger, who worked a shooting angle and powered past Onana from the edge of the box.
Dalot’s block would deny Olise a hat-trick, while Odsonne Edouard struck a post in stoppage time.
This fixture saw Casemiro and Jonny Evans become United’s 14th
UNITED 0 ARSENAL 1
Trossard 20
Title-chasing Gunners claim
narrow win in M16
United pushed Premier League title contenders Arsenal all the way at Old Trafford before ultimately succumbing to a slender 1-0 defeat.
The Reds were again without captain Bruno Fernandes, who was missing a game due to injury for only the second time in his club career.
There was a first United start in three years for Amad, and the young Ivory Coast international carried a threat and on one occasion managed to breach the otherwise well marshalled 18-yard line, going down under a challenge – but no penalty came.
By that point, Arsenal were ahead, having taken the lead arguably against the run of play as Leandro Trossard met Kai Havertz’s cut-back inside the six-yard box.
United’s key first-half chances fell to Rasmus Hojlund, who unfortunately slipped at the crucial moment to send his shot high and wide, and Alejandro Garnacho, whose attempt also cleared the top of the crossbar.
There was a similar opening to the action in the second 45 minutes, with United the first to launch an attack of note.
Garnacho drove at Ben White down Arsenal’s right and managed a shot that soared into the side netting instead of beating goalkeeper David Raya, much to the relief of the visiting fans.
Andre Onana’s goal came under a more direct threat in the 79th minute when Gabriel Martinelli cut inside from the left and fired a shot that was pawed over the bar with a big left hand – another to add to the Cameroonian’s impressive showreel in his debut United season.
Later, Onana dived low in the same direction to tip Declan Rice’s curling effort past the post, with the Gunners having recycled the ball after our stopper pushed away an errant Aaron Wan-Bissaka header from a corner.
Erik ten Hag turned to Academy products Omari Forson, Willy Kambwala and Ethan Wheatley in the search for an equaliser that would have restored some pride after a difficult week.
Although, as the heavens opened and the rain poured, it was another graduate in Garnacho who threatened to dent Arsenal’s title hopes, worrying Raya with a shot that flashed just wide as the visitors held on.
UNITED 3
Mainoo 31, Amad 57, Hojlund 84
NEWCASTLE UNITED 2
Gordon 49, Hall 90+2
Old Trafford campaign ends with rousing victory
United signed off at Old Trafford for the 2023/24 season with a battling performance to claim all three points in a five-goal thriller against Newcastle.
There was early danger when Anthony Gordon pounced on a loose ball, only for Sofyan Amrabat to rush back and put in a perfectly timed tackle in the penalty area.
Bruno Fernandes, back in the team after injury but in a ‘false nine’ role to keep Rasmus Hojlund fresh, was instrumental in the opening goal as he dummied Amad’s pass that made its way to an unmarked Kobbie Mainoo in the box. Played onside, he calmly picked his spot.
It took a last-ditch intervention from Casemiro to steal the ball from Gordon just yards out, while appeals for a penalty after Amrabat’s simultaneous challenge were dismissed as Newcastle pushed up.
Casemiro also then had to head the ball clear of the goalmouth to preserve United’s half-time lead.
The Magpies made a fighting start to the second period and
DID YOU KNOW?
This was a landmark night for Rashford, who reached 400 games for the Reds.
equalised when Jacob Murphy swept a cross from the right into the box where Gordon was there to knock the ball in.
Amrabat was then the hero as a Newcastle breakaway resulted in the Morocco international throwing his body in front of a shot from the dangerous Alexander Isak.
It was a platform to retake the lead and when Fernandes’s corner was only partly cleared, Amad was lurking just inside the area to score with a fierce rising drive.
Andre Onana pulled off a fine save from Joelinton’s towering header, before Rasmus Hojlund was introduced in a bid to extend the advantage. It paid off – on the pitch for just over a minute, the striker knocked the ball past centre-back Dan Burn and found the angle to squeeze it into the far corner.
Lewis Hall’s long-distance effort curled away from Onana and into the net in stoppage time, setting up a grandstand finish as Newcastle threw everything forward, but 3-2 was how it finished.
MAN OF THE MATCH BRUNO FERNANDES
In his first game back following a two-week injury absence, Bruno won his ninth Man of the Match award of 2023/24, pipping Amad in the fan vote. Our no.8 chipped in with an assist for Hojlund, and was instrumental throughout.
BRIGHTON & HOVE ALBION 0 UNITED 2
Dalot 73, Hojlund 88
United had to settle for eighth place in the final Premier League table, despite finishing the campaign with a 2-0 win away at Brighton & Hove Albion.
A largely listless opening 45 minutes saw the Seagulls carve out the better chances but there was little to enthuse the watching fans at the Amex Stadium.
Jakub Moder made an important challenge to prevent Alejandro Garnacho going through, and there was a brief sight of goal with a Bruno Fernandes chip that lacked the elevation required to trouble goalkeeper Jason Steele.
Seconds later, Andre Onana had to be alert to block a Valentin Barco effort with his leg.
Adam Webster was proving a threat from set-pieces, heading wide and also forcing Lisandro Martinez to clear from close to his own goal-line.
In between those chances, Scott McTominay blazed over for United at the other end.
Joao Pedro looked certain to open the scoring half-an-hour in, tearing through when the ball came
DID YOU KNOW?
Hojlund ensured he finished level with Bruno Fernandes as United’s joint-top league scorer with his 10th of 2023/24.
off Fernandes inside the Reds’ box, but thankfully he fired a glaring opportunity wide of the post.
Brighton thought they had gone ahead five minutes after the interval, when Moder was left unchecked beyond the far post and teed up Pedro. The Brazilian’s attempt was cleared off the line by Casemiro and Adam Lallana’s rebound deflected off target.
It prompted a Reds response: Garnacho’s drive cannoned off Webster’s head and flew wide, before McTominay was crowded out when the ball fell to him.
A shot from the Scot was later blocked, and Amad put an effort too high. But a goal finally came on 73 minutes. Casemiro’s long through ball flicked off Igor Julio and ran on to Diogo Dalot, who kept his cool and slotted a precise finish past Steele.
With time running out, Hojlund collected a pass from substitute Christian Eriksen and went on his own, shifting the ball on to his right foot and shooting low into the net, crowning the win – the ideal preparation for Wembley...
MAN OF THE MATCH DIOGO DALOT
The Portuguese full-back scored the opening goal at the Amex, in a game that saw him start on the left of defence. It was a moment he no doubt relished just as much as the clean sheet as Diogo and the Reds claimed the win.
MANCHESTER CITY 1
Doku 87
UNITED 2
Garnacho 30, Mainoo 39
Unforgettable day at Wembley as City are beaten
Manchester United were crowned FA Cup winners for the 13th time following a heroic 2-1 victory over Manchester City at Wembley.
Alejandro Garnacho had the game’s first attempt on goal, with Stefan Ortega called into action to save his swerving effort.
A Scott McTominay snapshot just after the quarter-hour mark was blocked, before Mateo Kovacic had to nip in to deny Bruno Fernandes after loose play from Ortega.
City were not so lucky in the 30th minute though, when Diogo Dalot’s searching ball in behind was headed over an onrushing Ortega by Josko Gvardiol, and tapped into an empty net by Garnacho.
Bernardo Silva had his side’s first shot on target soon after but Andre Onana stood firm to hold it.
United seemed to have a second goal on 37 minutes through Marcus Rashford, only for the flag to go up for an offside against Garnacho.
But just a few minutes later the lead was doubled, with Kobbie Mainoo on the scoresheet.
DID YOU KNOW?
Erik ten Hag became the first-ever manager to win silverware in each of his first two seasons with United, adding to the Carabao Cup in 2022/23.
A sweeping move saw Garnacho find Fernandes in the box, and our captain intricately kept the move flowing from right to left, finding Kobbie with a first-time pass which the teenager slotted back across Ortega and into the bottom corner.
A Fernandes shot blocked by John Stones was the last notable action of a half as Reds fans joyously celebrated a 2-0 advantage.
Early into the second 45, Jeremy Doku’s ball across the box found Erling Haaland, who curled a menacing first-time effort against the crossbar.
It took a brilliant save from Onana to keep out a long-range effort from Kyle Walker on City’s next attempt to reduce the deficit.
Substitute Julian Alvarez then powered a shot over the bar before rolling another narrowly wide.
Ortega parried from Garnacho in a brief moment of Reds respite, before Onana again had to keep out Walker.
A Fernandes free-kick kept Ortega busy, but City’s efforts finally paid off when Doku came inside from the left and fired in a low effort that crept past Onana.
That goal, and the seven minutes of additional time, ensured a nervy end to the game.
But, roared on by the noisy Red Army in the stands, United held on until the final whistle to secure a thrilling victory and end the season as winners of the 2023/24 FA Cup.
MAN OF THE MATCH KOBBIE MAINOO
We had so many heroes on the day, but Mainoo took the prize ahead of Garnacho following a monumental midfield display, the youngster scoring what would prove to be the decisive goal in our 13th FA Cup triumph.
MEN’S TEAM: PROFILES & STATISTICS
A player-by player assessment of Erik ten Hag’s Reds throughout 2023/24, alongside a breakdown of every United fixture in the league, two domestic cups and continental competition...
Position Goalkeeper
Born Nkol Ngok, Cameroon, 02.04.96
Signed from Internazionale, 20.07.23
United debut v Wolves, 14.08.23
Previous clubs Ajax, Internazionale
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 38 games
FA Cup 5 games
League Cup 2 games
Europe 6 games
Total 51 games
INTERNATIONAL RECORD:
40 caps for Cameroon
24 ANDRE ONANA
For the first time in 13 years, United had a new first-choice goalkeeper when 2023/24 kicked off. Far from being daunted by replacing David De Gea, summer signing Onana brought the confidence and credentials of playing in the previous term’s Champions League final, albeit one in which his Inter team were edged 1-0 by Manchester City.
The tables would be turned at the end of the Cameroonian’s debut campaign, but firstly there was a period of inevitable adjustment to English football for the former Barcelona youth goalkeeper who spent seven-and-a-half years with Dutch giants Ajax – some of those during Erik ten Hag’s tenure – before his one-season stint in Italy’s Serie A Onana’s assimilation was not aided by an ever-changing defence – he had to operate behind 15 different centre-back partnerships.
2 VICTOR LINDELOF
The basic story of Lindelof’s 2023/24 – his seventh campaign as a Red – was two solid blocks of football broken up by a couple of injuries… and a sweet return to fitness at the very end for the dependable Swede. Victor was in action from the opening game of the season, coming on at half-time to replace Lisandro Martinez, and he continued to be a very useful tool for Erik ten Hag during the first phase of proceedings, featuring in 17 of the season’s first 20 games up until the end of November. This included slotting into a full-back position on occasion when needed, aside from his specialist centre-back role – and also included a glamour moment much further up the pitch, as he firmly fired in the winning goal against Luton Town at Old Trafford on Remembrance Day – United’s 2,500th match at Old Trafford.
During the win over Chelsea in early December, United’s injury curse struck Victor, with him having to come off at half-time, and, coupled with a surgical procedure, he then missed the rest of the month’s action, as well as all of January. He was back in action as a sub at home to West Ham in February, and returned to his groove as a reliable and adaptable defensive option for Ten Hag.
A hamstring issue picked up against Brentford at the end of March disrupted the Iceman’s flow, but there was a bonus at the end of the season, as he won his fitness race to make the bench in the FA Cup final at Wembley, coming on in that nervy period of stoppage time to shore up the backline and help see United to victory. That was Victor’s third major trophy as a Red, and he also passed the 250-appearance milestone during the campaign.
If Lisandro Martinez, another Ajax alumnus, had experienced better luck with injuries, the goalkeeper might have been quieter, although he still managed to keep 13 clean sheets across all competitions.
Andre topped the Premier League chart for saves made (149) and sometimes had to produce breathtaking stops that earned him nominations for Save of the Month – in November (v Luton), February (v West Ham) and April (v Burnley). He won the latter award, but the real glory came in two FA Cup ties at Wembley. In the semi-final, Onana’s superb save from Coventry’s Callum O’Hare turned the penalty shoot-out tide in United’s favour; in the final, as the Reds led 2-0, he shut out City for so long that Jeremy Doku’s eventual strike was rendered too little, too late. Thanks in no small part to Onana, the silverware was ours.
Signed from Benfica, 01.07.17
games, 0 goals
Other 1 game, 0 goals
Total 235 (24) games, 4 goals
Position Defender
Born Vasteras, Sweden, 17.07.94
Position Defender
Born Sheffield, England, 05.03.93
Signed from Leicester City, 05.08.19
United debut v Chelsea, 11.08.19
Previous clubs Sheffield United, Hull City, Wigan Athletic (loan), Leicester City
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 126 (14) games, 6 goals
FA Cup 13 (4) games, 3 goals
League Cup 10 (2) games, 0 goals
Europe 33 (4) games, 2 goal
Total 182 (24) games, 11 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD:
63 caps for England, 7 goals
5 HARRY MAGUIRE
The 2023/24 campaign was one where Maguire showed his true worth to the United cause. In a season beset by injuries, with the central defensive cohort particularly decimated, Maguire was among those forced to have a spell on the sidelines at various points, but when available showed that he will always put his body on the line for his team. There will have been understandable disappointment at losing the club captain’s armband to Bruno Fernandes but Maguire rolled up his sleeves and enjoyed one of his most effective campaigns in recent years. He was voted the Premier League Player of the Month for November after a steadfast run of games that delivered three league wins in a row and three clean sheets – becoming only the third United defender ever to receive that award, after Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja
6 LISANDRO MARTINEZ
After a broken metatarsal ended Martinez’s impressive debut season early, it was a great boost all round that he was fit and pencilled into Erik ten Hag’s starting XI come the opening game of 2023/24, against Wolves. So there was some concern when Lisandro came off at half-time in that game with a niggle, but five days later he played the full 90 minutes against Tottenham.
In keeping with a theme that dogged Erik ten Hag’s squad throughout the season, though, injury was indeed around the corner: two games later, against Arsenal, he aggravated the previous foot injury, and though Licha bravely battled on through a couple more games, it was announced on 29 September that he had indeed re-injured his right foot and would unfortunately be kept out of action on the sidelines for an “extended
period”. That lasted until mid-January, when Martinez was back on the field again, against Spurs from the bench. But it was to remain stop-start for the Argentinian, who picked up a knee injury in early February against West Ham, then after returning at the end of March he sustained a calf strain that ruled him out for a month.
Ten Hag stressed that Martinez was doing everything he could to be back before the end of the season, and he duly got a start under his belt in the last match of the league campaign at Brighton, paving the way for inclusion in the FA Cup final starting XI. Licha was superb at Wembley as part of a fantastic defensive unit, lasting as long as he could before cramp forced him off.
Sorely missed at various points during the campaign, he’s someone United fans will sincerely hope is blessed with an injury-free 2024/25.
Vidic. After the first of those wins, away to Fulham, manager Erik ten Hag praised the centre-back, saying: “Harry showed leadership, and in and out of possession he was very good. I’m very pleased with that performance from him.”
Displaying consistency and composure at the back – and popping up with some vital moments in attack, with a brilliant assist for Scott McTominay’s winner against Brentford and his own winning goal at home to Copenhagen in the Champions League – he was also resilient in the face of an everchanging centre-back partnership, at various points lining up alongside seven different team-mates. Harry missed the last month of action for United through injury – which would sadly cost him a place at the Euros – but he’ll be proud of what he achieved over the campaign.
Position Defender
Premier League 32 (6) games, 1 goal
FA Cup 3 (2) games, 0 goals
League Cup 4 (1) games, 0 goals
Europe 10 (1) games, 0 goals
Total 49 (10) games, 1 goal
INTERNATIONAL RECORD: 20 caps for Argentina, 0 goals
Position Defender
Born Lille, France, 25.04.93
Signed from Real Madrid, 14.08.21
United debut v Wolves, 29.08.21
Previous clubs Lens, Real Madrid
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 58 (10) games, 2 goals
FA Cup 9 (1) games, 0 goals
League Cup 3 games, 0 goals
Europe 12 (2) games, 0 goals
Total 82 (13) games, 2 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD: 93 caps for France, 5 goals
19 RAPHAEL VARANE
A mainstay for Erik ten Hag alongside Lisandro Martinez during our 2022/23 campaign, Varane’s progression was somewhat halted in an injury-hit season across the backline for the Reds in 2023/24.
Starting just 16 times in the Premier League, Rapha’s second goal for the club, something of a collector’s item, came against Wolves in a narrow 1-0 opening-day victory. From there, the experienced Frenchman continued to marshal our defence alongside a plethora of different centre-back partners including Jonny Evans, Casemiro, Willy Kambwala and Victor Lindelof to name but a few.
A monumental Man-of-the-Match display came away at Liverpool in a 0-0 draw at Anfield, with his importance magnified by our Dutch boss as the season progressed. “We know what he [Varane] is capable of,
20 DIOGO DALOT
Nothing underlines how valued Dalot’s contributions were to United’s 2023/24 campaign more than the fact he was selected by his peers as their choice for Players’ Player of the Year.
In an award-winning term for him, no outfield Red made more than Dalot’s 50 appearances for Erik ten Hag’s team, with the Portuguese defender’s versatility in being able to flank both sides of the backline of particular importance to the boss in an injury-hit season for his squad.
On the pitch, Dalot was a consistent performer and able to chip in at both ends. Goals away to Sheffield United, Wigan and Brighton, along with five assists – including the cross that teed up Alejandro Garnacho’s goal for the ages at Everton – were highlight moments in his season, as was a stunning last-ditch block to deny Jarrod Bowen in the 3-0 home win over West Ham.
As far as all-round performances go, perhaps none were better than his displays in the seismic FA Cup victories over Liverpool and Manchester City, with his efforts in the latter helping to ensure the second trophy of his Old Trafford career, following Carabao Cup success in the previous term.
“I think we have ended well what has been a tough season,” he said after victory over City in the final. “It means a lot winning this trophy. This was a very big step for us and next season we will do things better.”
Other notable landmarks included passing a century of Premier League appearances, as well as reaching the 150 mark in all competitions for United.
Before fully turning the page to 2024/25, Dalot headed to Germany with Portugal for Euro 2024, where he started two games for his country as they progressed to the quarter-finals.
he has many such performances and I think he did very well in the partnership with Jonny Evans,” said Ten Hag after his battling display on Merseyside.
It transpired in the final months of the season that Varane’s time at the club would come to an end upon the expiry of his deal in M16. And what better way to end than with an FA Cup success against your crosstown rivals? The 31-year-old played every minute of our terrific 2-1 win against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City side at Wembley and admitted it was the fairy tale ending upon calling time on his chapter at Old Trafford.
“What a finish – this season has been tough, but the team has been very resilient and at the end we have that happiness,” summed up the defender after his 95th and final appearance for the club. We wish Raphael all the best for the future.
Position Defender
Born Kingston-upon-Thames, England, 12.07.95
Signed from Southampton, 27.06.14
United debut v West Ham United, 27.09.14
Previous clubs Southampton
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 177 (14) games, 3 goals
FA Cup 22 (3) games, 1 goal
League Cup 8 (4) games, 0 goals
Europe 40 (6) games, 0 goals
Other 1 game, 0 goals
Total 248 (27) games, 4 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD:
31 caps for England, 3 goals
23 LUKE SHAW
Shaw, who passed the 10-year mark with the club this summer, having arrived from Southampton in June 2014, had become a near permanent fixture in Erik ten Hag’s XI during the manager’s first season at Old Trafford, making as many appearances as he had in any of his previous terms at United, but a succession of injuries thwarted the full-back’s attempts to build on that over the course of the most recent campaign.
No one was more disappointed by this than Luke himself, who shared his feelings on social media after our final outing of the season. ‘This has definitely been the most frustrating season for me,’ he began, in an honest post, that started by celebrating United’s FA Cup success at Wembley. ‘I have had setback after setback and have worked so hard to get back to fitness, but things just
29 AARON WAN-BISSAKA
The south Londoner has often been competing with Diogo Dalot for the right-back spot in Erik ten Hag’s team but, due to the impact of numerous defensive injuries for the Reds, both spent time filling in on the opposite side at left-back for United throughout 2023/24.
Wan-Bissaka began the season in fine style, assisting Raphael Varane’s late winner against Wolves at Old Trafford, setting up what looked to be the start of an impressive season for the defender.
However, a hamstring injury after just five minutes of our match at home to Brighton in September led to our no.29 unfortunately not playing again in the Premier League until the start of November.
This also meant Aaron was absent from the first three matches of United’s frustrating Champions League campaign,
before returning to action against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup.
After rotating with Dalot at right-back in the run up to the new year, another injury ruled the wideman out from February through to March, and his eventual return to fitness was a welcome bonus, given the worries at left-back. After playing every minute of the 1-1 draw at Brentford on his weaker side, he then started all of the Reds’ 11 remaining fixtures in the league and FA Cup.
While alternating with Dalot at left-back for the majority of the run-in, former Crystal Palace man Wan-Bissaka was trusted on his natural side for the Cup final against Manchester City, and put in an inspired display as part of a solid backline, helping to lay the foundation for the Reds to go and win the trophy and gain Europa League qualification for 2024/25.
haven’t gone my way. I pushed so hard to get back before the end of the season and the final, but some things just aren’t meant to be.’
Having played every minute of our opening two games, a muscle injury then kept the defender out until November’s trip to Everton, before he featured in 12 of the 16 matches that followed – missing four fixtures in the midst due to a minor issue – prior to suffering a season-ending problem that brought a premature finish to his term, with an early withdrawal in February’s win away at Luton.
Nonetheless, our no.23 spent the remaining months working hard behind the scenes and pushing for a return to action. Ultimately Shaw did enough to be included within Gareth Southgate’s England squad for Euro 2024, finally joining the action at the quarter-final stage after finding his match fitness.
Position Defender
Born Belfast, 03.01.88
Signed from Trainee; unattached
United debut v Coventry City, 26.09.07
Previous clubs Manchester United, Royal Antwerp (loan), Sunderland (loan), West Bromwich Albion, Leicester City
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 138 (16) games, 4 goals
FA Cup 11 (5) games, 0 goals
League Cup 19 (1) games, 1 goal
Europe 26 (7) games, 2 goals
Other 2 (3) games, 0 goals
Total 196 (32) games, 7 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD:
107 caps for Northern Ireland, 6 goals
35 JONNY EVANS
It was a mixed season for United, with disappointment in the league tempered by the superb FA Cup final triumph against Manchester City. But for Evans, a return to Old Trafford at the age of 35 was Boys’Own stuff. The defender played 198 games in his first spell, between 2007 and 2015, and added a further 30 appearances in 2023/24 under Erik ten Hag, culminating in that epochal Cup final win. Evans was introduced in the 73rd minute at Wembley, replacing Lisandro Martinez, with plenty still to be done to ensure victory.
Through the last 17 minutes of normal time, and the further seven minutes added by the officials, the presence of Evans – steeped in the traditions of the club, with endless experience to guide his team-mates – was critical. It was a fitting end to a season where Evans regularly stepped in to steward a backline
53 WILLY KAMBWALA
Centre-back Kambwala was making his name in the Academy at the start of the 2023/24 season, but was still probably considered a little way off the first-team picture at the outset of the campaign.
Then the United injury crisis started to bite. By the start of winter, Erik ten Hag’s options in the centre of defence were decimated, which meant that opportunity knocked for the DR Congo-born player, who has represented France at youth level. Willy was called into the matchday squad for the first time for the trip to Anfield in December, and was handed his first start – and indeed, a senior debut – away to West Ham, partnering Jonny Evans in the centre of defence and playing 84 minutes before being replaced by Sergio Reguilon. Explaining his decision to call up the 19-year-old, Ten Hag said “He’s athletic, calm on the ball,
he made a good impression in training. It’s a big moment for him.”
From there further match action was to follow, including an impressive 90 minutes in the pulsating 2-2 home draw with Liverpool in the Premier League. In a frantic match that threatened to reach the crazy heights of the FA Cup quarter-final win against the same opponents just weeks before, Kambwala delivered a performance of huge personality and grit. That was reflected in the club’s Man of the Match poll, where fans voted him third, behind only scorers Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.
July saw Kambwala move to Villarreal, with his final United performance coming in the league match with Arsenal in May, before he was selected as one of the substitutes in our famous FA Cup final triumph. We wish Willy well for the next chapter of his career in Spain.
often ravaged by injuries in the centre-back positions.
A standout moment came at Anfield in December, when he and Raphael Varane led a depleted United team, captained by Scott McTominay, to a goalless draw at Anfield. But perhaps his best performance of the term came at Turf Moor, against Burnley, where he made his 200th club appearance. Evans seemed to have given United the lead in the first half, only to see his goal ruled out by VAR. But, unperturbed, the defender later launched a perfectly measured long ball for Bruno Fernandes to dispatch, helping us to win the game.
Those were the highlights from a remarkable comeback season from Jonny, but the abiding memory of Evans’s contributions will be the consistency and maturity that he delivered throughout, earning him an extension for the 2024/25 campaign.
Position Midfielder
Born Huizen, Netherlands, 21.08.96
Signed from Fiorentina (loan), 01.09.23
United debut v Burnley, 23.09.23
Previous clubs Utrecht, Feyenoord, Club Brugge, Hellas Verona (loan), Fiorentina
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 10 (11) games, 0 goals
FA Cup 2 games, 0 goals
League Cup 1 (1) games, 0 goals
Europe 4 (1) games, 0 goals
Total 17 (13) games, 0 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD:
57 caps for Morocco, 0 goals
4 SOFYAN AMRABAT
Amrabat grew in influence over the course of his season-long loan move from Fiorentina and ended the campaign by playing a key role in the glorious FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.
The Morocco international also had to show his versatility by filling in at the problem position of left-back, as he did on his debut away to Burnley in late September, but, understandably, he produced his best form in the midfield engine room.
Although he performed well in November’s 0-0 draw at Liverpool, his pause in domestic action, after that stalemate, appeared to disrupt any rhythm and momentum.
Following injury, he spent time away at the Africa Cup of Nations, representing his country as they reached the last 16, and only reappeared for the Reds in the win at Aston Villa on 11 February.
7 MASON MOUNT
‘Ending a frustrating 2023/24 with a trophy,’ read Mason Mount’s Instagram post after the Reds’ FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, and there could be no more succinct summary of the midfielder’s debut term in M16.
Procured from boyhood club Chelsea ahead of the campaign, the England international arrived to bring his high-octane approach to the Reds’ engine room. However, Mason was reduced to just 20 outings all term as he found his campaign decimated by injury.
Ten Hag’s faith in the new recruit was evident in the opening stages of the season, with Mount starting the season-opening win over Wolves and August’s trip to Tottenham, but thereafter he sustained a knock which led to his first spell on the sidelines that would unfortunately restrict his impact and playing time.
Nevertheless, by early October he had made six starts for his new club, a total which would only be added to against Luton in November and, after a calf injury cost him almost four months, May’s trip to Crystal Palace.
Amid the months of frustration, Mason did enjoy the high point of netting a maiden Reds goal in March’s draw at Brentford, after which Ten Hag saluted the 25-year-old’s contribution. “He deserved that moment of glory,” said the Dutchman. “For a player who came in and suffered so many injuries and worked so hard all the time, and had so many setbacks, it was so frustrating.
“He has great abilities and I am sure he will contribute and he will become a big player for United.”
We’re sure he’ll come back stronger and kick on in 2024/25.
Thereafter, the midfielder’s industry and experience proved valuable, particularly when Casemiro was forced to switch to centre-back, and Erik ten Hag began to rely upon his services.
The manager made the call to select him in the starting XI at Wembley for the derby game that would provide the biggest success of United’s 2023/24 season.
Quite clearly fired up for the occasion, Amrabat produced a sterling display and was tireless in helping the Reds upset the odds to lift the trophy.
Although his loan was due to expire in the summer, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for a hard-working player, who has shown he is capable of competing in the Premier League and able to fulfil his duties with no lack of diligence and professionalism.
Throughout the undulations of 2023/24, Fernandes remained the Reds’ chief attacking inspiration, creating chances for others with proficiency and consistency, while also adding another 15 goals to his growing haul. Confirmed as club captain ahead of the campaign, the attacking midfielder continued to chase on-field omnipresence, leading by example as he turned in a string of sweat-soaked shifts.
His Premier League highlights included a last-gasp winner at Fulham, a 45-yard rasper from the centre-circle to draw the Reds level against Liverpool (his 50th goal in the division), plus a stonking left-footer from long-range to confirm victory over Sheffield United – the latter coming amid a career-best run of scoring in five successive matches. Voted the Reds’ Player of the Month in both August and April, the
14 CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN
The Danish midfielder’s second season as a Red may not have hit the heights of his maiden campaign, but he could still be relied upon to provide a creative spark and a range of clever passing whenever called upon by Erik ten Hag.
Although Eriksen played 28 times in 2023/24, compared to 44 the previous term, his presence invariably brought increased positivity to the side.
This was demonstrated in his first start of the campaign when, with United 2-0 down inside five minutes at home to Nottingham Forest, he sparked a recovery and a 3-2 comeback win by applying a deft flick to a low Marcus Rashford cross.
He showed his ability to create for others on our away trip to Arsenal, his raking pass sending Rashford off on a run that resulted in the striker’s stunning finish. But there then
followed a spell flitting between the starting XI and the bench, as Ten Hag explored midfield combinations. Sadly, against Luton, he suffered a knee injury that paused his season.
After missing 10 matches, he returned as a sub in our defeat at West Ham, then was a starter in the stunning 3-2 comeback victory against Aston Villa on Boxing Day. Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo being the preferred two in the heart of midfield limited his opportunities, but he played an important 40-minute cameo in our unforgettable 4-3 FA Cup win against Liverpool and again in the semi against Coventry – in which he converted his kick in the shoot-out. While it was not the season he would have wanted, Eriksen showed he still has plenty of ability and desire, as he’d go on to demonstrate in an emotional return to the European Championship this summer.
skipper went on to win the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award for his ceaseless efforts, lifting the prized statuette for the third time in his four-and-a-half-season Reds career.
Fittingly, the toughest campaign of Fernandes’s time at Old Trafford ended on a dizzying high, with the Portuguese lifting the FA Cup at Wembley. The skipper turned in a superb display throughout the hard-earned victory over Manchester City, highlighted by a sublime assist for Kobbie Mainoo’s eventual winner.
Speaking afterwards, Bruno admitted: “It’s a long season, it was difficult, and this was our last chance to get something positive from the season. We had to suffer. We had to sacrifice, but we also had to put some quality into the game. And we did great things.” For the club captain, such excellence came as standard.
UNITED RECORD:
FA Cup 4 (2) games, 0 goals
League Cup 2 (2) games, 1 goal
Europe 8 (4) games, 0 goals
Total 51 (21) games, 3 goals INTERNATIONAL RECORD: 134 caps for Denmark, 42
Position Midfielder
Born Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil, 23.02.92
Signed from Real Madrid, 22.08.22
United debut v Southampton, 27.08.22
Previous clubs Sao Paulo, Real Madrid, Porto (loan)
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 48 (5) games, 5 goals
FA Cup 7 (1) games, 3 goals
League Cup 6 (2) games, 2 goals
Europe 13 (1) games, 2 goals
Total 74 (9) games, 12 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD:
75 caps for Brazil, 7 goals
18 CASEMIRO
After an often-brilliant first season, Casemiro’s sophomore campaign as a Red proved more challenging.
He kicked off 2023/24 as one of our most dangerous goalscoring threats – netting four times before the end of September, including a double in the helter-skelter 4-3 defeat at Bayern Munich.
But he was often impacted as the holding midfielder by a tweak in the team’s midfield set-up, particularly during transitional moments.
The chaotic 3-2 defeat against Galatasaray saw him sent off for the third time in his United career, after he conceded a penalty while trying to stop a near-certain goal.
He was then kept out for almost three months after suffering a hamstring injury against Newcastle in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup. His return to the side, away to Newport County in the FA Cup,
37 KOBBIE MAINOO
“At the moment, he’s not there, but we’ve seen him against Arsenal [in pre-season] – he’s ready to pick that role. He absolutely will have games.”
While the injury Mainoo suffered on our summer tour of the USA was a blow, Erik ten Hag knew the teenager would return to play a significant role in his Manchester United midfield, and so it came to pass, with the Academy graduate making his first Premier League start away to Everton in late November.
Kobbie starred at Goodison Park that day and never looked back, missing just two of our remaining 34 fixtures to quickly become a mainstay in one of the more impressive Old Trafford breakthrough campaigns.
There are obvious highlights in what Kobbie has himself admitted was an “up-and-down season overall”. His expertly taken FA Cup
final goal will be cherished for years to come, while league efforts against Liverpool and Wolves were among the finest scored across the division.
But what really impressed fans was Mainoo’s composure and maturity, both on and off the pitch.
Gareth Southgate was clearly taken by the Stockport-born midfielder’s emergence, too, awarding the then 18-year-old a first England cap – against Brazil, of all teams – during the international fixtures in March, before his involvement for the Three Lions at the Euros this summer.
Just two years on from his role in our most recent FA Youth Cup success, Mainoo is all set to be a fixture in the Reds’ engine room for years to come, with team-mate Casemiro predicting he will be “one of the best midfielders in the Premier League, easily”.
coincided with the team’s best run of the season – a spell of form which yielded five consecutive wins.
One of the high points of the Brazilian’s season came when he nodded home a vital late winner in the FA Cup fifth-round tie at Nottingham Forest.
When serious injuries befell Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw, and more defenders began to suffer smaller issues, Erik ten Hag was left with little choice but to deploy his experienced no.18 at centre-back, where he filled in valiantly for much of the season’s remaining weeks.
After helping United reach the FA Cup final from that position, Casemiro was unfortunately ruled out of the showpiece game against Manchester City after noticing a tight hamstring in the build-up. It meant he finished the season on 32 appearances, scoring five goals.
Premier League 24 (1) games, 3
Position Midfielder
Born Lancaster, England, 08.12.96
Signed from Trainee
United debut v Arsenal, 07.05.17
Previous clubs None
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 117 (59) games, 19 goals
FA Cup 17 (7) games, 5 goals
League Cup 8 (2) games, 2 goals
Europe 29 (13) games, 3 goal
Total 171 (81) games, 29 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD:
52 caps for Scotland, 9 goals
39 SCOTT McTOMINAY
A midfielder he may be, but McTominay certainly demonstrated his eye for goal, for both club and country, in 2023/24, reaching double figures for United for the first time in his career.
The early weeks of the season saw McTominay primarily used as a substitute, yet his ability to remain fit was once again a benefit for Erik ten Hag, who, after a couple of starts and McTominay’s late match-winning brace against Brentford in October, started Scott in the next nine Premier League fixtures.
McTominay’s attacking threat was most notable at the back end of 2023, as he netted a brace to help the Reds to a 2-1 victory over Chelsea, while Scott scored his first-ever Champions League goal in United’s 3-3 draw at Galatasaray.
Immediately after the new year, our no.39 found starts a bit more
9 ANTHONY MARTIAL
An emotional Instagram post on 27 May 2024 signalled the end of a United career that began almost nine years earlier with a dream debut – scoring a stunning solo effort against Liverpool, of all teams, during a 3-1 victory at Old Trafford.
The Frenchman used his social media account to say goodbye, thank ‘the best supporters in the world… from the bottom of my heart’, and confirm what many fans had expected to happen after another unfortunately disrupted campaign.
Illness and injury limited our no.9 to just seven starts and a further 12 appearances from the bench, and all of these were made within the first five months of the season.
What proved to be his last outing was the home Premier League defeat to Bournemouth on 9 December, when Martial was replaced early in the second half by Rasmus Hojlund
– the young striker who prematurely had to shoulder much of the goalscoring burden in his absence.
Martial did find the net twice during his final term, with both strikes setting the seal on 3-0 victories.
First, he was on target in one of the Reds’ most complete performances of 2023/24, as Crystal Palace were sent packing in the third round of the Carabao Cup.
And then, against Everton in November with what turned out to be his final goal for the club, he collected a Bruno Fernandes pass with instant control and knocked a typically clinical finish into the corner.
Unfortunately, Martial played no part in United winning the FA Cup for the first time since May 2016 – when his exciting first campaign had finished in fitting style with silverware. Plenty of fond memories left behind – au revoir, Anthony, et merci
infrequent but, as he always has, the midfielder remained patient for his chance. Scott was soon once again a regular name in the starting line-up, scoring and assisting in a wild FA Cup quarter-final tie against Liverpool at Old Trafford, won memorably 4-3 by United after extra-time.
A goal in the semi-final win over Coventry at Wembley preceded a successful end to the season for our no.39, who played every minute of our last three league fixtures, before helping the Reds lift the FA Cup with a triumph over Manchester City – his second winner’s medal with the Reds since his May 2017 debut, accompanying a Carabao Cup success in 2022/23.
While this summer’s Euros didn’t go too well for McTominay and his fellow Scots, he took home a small consolation from Germany as the scorer in the 1-1 draw with Switzerland.
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 149 (60) games, 63 goals
FA Cup 18 (9) games, 5 goals
League Cup 14 (7) games, 9 goals
Europe 39 (20) games, 13 goals
Other 1 game, 0 goals
Total 221 (96) games, 90 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD: 30 caps for France, 2 goals
Position Forward
Born Manchester, England, 31.10.97
Signed from Trainee
United debut v Midtjylland, 25.02.16
Previous clubs None
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 205 (67) games, 83 goals
FA Cup 27 (9) games, 9 goals
League Cup 14 (9) games, 14 goals
Europe 48 (21) games, 25 goals
Other 0 (2) games, 0 goals
Total 294 (108) games, 131 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD:
60 caps for England, 17 goals
10 MARCUS RASHFORD
“If you back me, good. If you doubt me, even better,” explained Marcus Rashford in an emotional interview with ThePlayers’Tribune during the latter half of the 2023/24 season.
Following on from his career-best 30-goal haul in 2022/23, the England forward endured a tough campaign, his search for sustained top form mirroring United’s stuttering collective fortunes.
A fleet-footed livewire on his day, Rashford provided glimpses of his enduring excellence, including netting a scorching opener at Arsenal, a phenomenal long-ranger against Manchester City, which was named the Premier League’s Goal of the Month for March, plus a crucial extra-time equaliser against Liverpool in an FA Cup classic at Old Trafford.
Though his eight-goal total frustrated him, United’s no.10 could
11 RASMUS HOJLUND
In terms of debut seasons, Hojlund’s first in English football was a highly promising one, given the young Dane captured the hearts of United supporters of all ages, and he claimed silverware along the way, too.
After opening his goals account for the Reds away to Bayern Munich in September, the former Atalanta man had to wait a while longer for his maiden Premier League strike, with Rasmus notching the winner in a 3-2 triumph over Aston Villa on Boxing Day, sparking pandemonium inside Old Trafford in the process.
From there, off he went, becoming the youngest-ever Premier League forward to score in six successive games. Featuring 43 times in total across all competitions, Erik ten Hag truly showed faith in the 21-year-old across a testing season, with fellow forward Anthony Martial missing for large parts of the campaign due to
injury problems. “We are very happy with our recruitment, that we recruited the right character, because he can perform under stress,” said Ten Hag of his no.11 after the victory at Luton in February. “When things go against him, like in the first half of the season, he has the abilities to have a strong character, to be resilient, to be determined and score goals, and that is what we saw when we scouted him.”
February saw Hojlund scoop the Premier League’s Player of the Month award, as well as our own club prize, and he finished the 2023/24 term with a creditable 16 strikes, more than any other United player.
His hold-up play, combined with a deadly eye for goal in all kinds of different situations, mean the young striker has laid the perfect foundations to kick on and continue his popular status at the Theatre of Dreams next season.
also reflect on excellent strikes against Tottenham and Wolves during a clear upturn in form across the latter half of the season.
Maintaining his knack of showing himself in the biggest games, Marcus also shone in the season finale against City at Wembley, playing a major role in Kobbie Mainoo’s winner with a sensational crossfield ball, just moments after having a goal of his own ruled out for offside.
Rashford ended a testing term with the fifth major honour of his Reds career, having been on the losing side just twice in 2024 and fresh from passing 400 appearances for his boyhood club. As Marcus himself warned: “Every time I’ve been down, physically or mentally, I always feel like that’s when I turn it around and play my best football for United and England.” As such, he’ll no doubt be eager to get going in 2024/25.
Position Forward
Born Copenhagen, Denmark, 04.02.03
Signed from Atalanta, 05.08.23
United debut v Arsenal, 03.09.23
Previous clubs Copenhagen, Sturm Graz, Atalanta
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 25 (5) games, 10 goals
FA Cup 5 games, 1 goal
League Cup 0 (2) games, 0 goals
Europe 6 games, 5 goals
Total 36 (7) games, 16 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD: 18 caps for Denmark, 7 goals
With expectations high after a stellar season on loan at Sunderland in 2022/23, the winger was handed a chance to shine in pre-season.
However, a knee injury suffered in the win over Arsenal in New Jersey came as a real blow and frustratingly kept Amad sidelined until the very end of 2023. Even after a cameo appearance at Nottingham Forest in our final game of the year, he would have to remain patient for an opportunity to impress.
As work continued behind the scenes on tactical elements and his off-the-ball involvement, aside from a brief substitute outing against Fulham, it was the FA Cup that offered a route to minutes on the pitch. And this was something Amad grabbed with both hands when scoring the extra-time winner against Liverpool in the quarter-final, to forever etch his name into the
17 ALEJANDRO GARNACHO
The exciting young winger was one of our stars of 2023/24, capping a fine second season as an established first-team player with the opening goal in the FA Cup final victory against Manchester City.
Indeed, Garnacho provided many of the most exciting moments of the campaign – not least his stunning overhead kick at Everton that was later voted both United’s and the Premier League’s Goal of the Season.
Although he played 50 times in ’23/24, initially Alejandro had to show patience. Nine of his first 11 appearances of the campaign were as a substitute, but from November onwards he was a mainstay of Erik ten Hag’s side.
From the moment he struck his Wayne Rooney-esque overhead kick three minutes in to the 3-0 victory against Everton, Garnacho never looked back. His speed, dribbling and
direct running made him a handful for opposition defences, with his 10-goal return from the wing a healthy one for a player who only turned 20 after the season had ended.
His two goals against Aston Villa set up a thrilling 3-2 comeback on Boxing Day, another double provided a more routine victory against West Ham in early February, with a third brace coming in April’s seven-goal thriller at Stamford Bridge.
While his strike at Goodison was the more spectacular, it was his effort at Wembley on 25 May that carried most importance. It not only set up the Cup triumph, but also reminded everyone why the Argentinian has become one of United’s most important players.
There’s no doubt that our no.17’s star is on the rise, and he’s set to be a cornerstone upon which the Reds will look to build in the years to come.
storied history between the great rivals as he rolled in a composed finish in the 120th minute.
The red card for removing his shirt in celebration prompted a one-game ban but he came on in the semi-final shoot-out win over Coventry City and appeared in each of our final seven Premier League matches.
In the last Old Trafford clash of the campaign, a thumping strike against Newcastle United registered his first Premier League goal and, although Amad was very unlucky not to get on in the FA Cup final, his celebrations at full-time showed he realised just how much he had contributed to his team earning the silverware.
Certainly, the potential is there for Amad to have an even bigger impact in 2024/25, with manager Erik ten Hag feeling there is still plenty more to come from the talented Ivory Coast international.
Position Forward
Born Madrid, Spain 01.07.04
Signed from Atletico Madrid, 11.09.20
United debut v Chelsea, 28.04.22
Previous clubs Atletico Madrid
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 35 (22) games, 10 goals
FA Cup 7 (3) games, 2 goals
League Cup 5 (2) games, 1 goal
Europe 5 (7) games, 2 goals
Total 52 (34) games, 15 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD:
6 caps for Argentina, 0 goals
Position Forward
Born Osasco, Brazil, 24.02.00
Signed from Ajax, 01.09.22
United debut v Arsenal, 04.09.22
Previous clubs Sao Paulo, Ajax
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 38 (16) games, 5 goals
FA Cup 6 (3) games, 3 goals
League Cup 5 (1) games, 1 goal
Europe 11 (2) games, 2 goals
Total 60 (22) games, 11 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD:
16 caps for Brazil, 2 goals
21 ANTONY
It was a difficult second season for the Brazilian winger, who missed several weeks of action in the autumn due to personal issues.
However, in an injury-hit campaign for the Reds’ squad, our no.21 still featured in 38 games – only six fewer than his previous term in Manchester – and, although his minutes were reduced, he contributed some important goals, none more so than the right-footed equaliser which took the FA Cup quarter-final classic with Liverpool to extra-time.
Earlier in the Cup run, the former Ajax winger spared United’s blushes at Newport County, restoring our lead after the League Two side had threatened to cause an almighty shock. Although he was an unused substitute in the final victory over Manchester City, his part in helping the Reds clinch the famous trophy for the 13th time should not be forgotten.
28 FACUNDO PELLISTRI
Wideman Pellistri would have been hopeful of adding to his 10 first-team appearances for the Reds in 2023/24 following some encouraging displays in pre-season – the high point coming at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, when he fired home a leveller against Athletic Club with the final kick of the friendly. Substitute runouts would come his way once the Premier League season kicked off – including in our opening two games, v Wolves and Tottenham – before a first start of the campaign came in Bavaria, as he played 81 minutes of our narrow loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Another start would follow six days later as Crystal Palace were put to the sword in the Carabao Cup – Pellistri playing the full 90 in the 3-0 win – but our no.28 soon returned to an impact sub role, with manager Erik ten Hag encouraging the talented winger to “make a step from bench player
coming on and often having an impact to [being] a starting player”.
November saw him set up Bruno Fernandes’s late winner at Fulham, but such was the competition for places, with Amad’s return from injury providing Ten Hag with an additional option out wide come the turn of the year, the January transfer window saw Pellistri join Granada on loan for the rest of the season.
Having enjoyed two previous spells on loan in LaLiga, both with Alaves (making 35 appearances), Spain’s top flight was again an appealing destination for the Uruguayan, who went on to score twice in 15 games as Granada battled to avoid the drop. Alas, relegation couldn’t be averted, but his goal and assist in a 3-3 draw at Barcelona showcased his undoubted talent, which he’d continue to show for his country at the 2024 CopaAmerica
Antony’s joy at ending his Premier League drought when scoring against Burnley in April was evident to see, as he celebrated with a Sonic the Hedgehog toy –a special tribute to his son, Lorenzo.
Antony’s sumptuous assist for Alejandro Garnacho’s second goal at Chelsea earlier that month – an insouciant flick of the left boot, which dissected the Blues backline to devastating effect – was also a reminder of what the former Ajax favourite is capable of on his day, and he’ll be hoping to provide plenty more of those moments next time around in 2024/25.
“I know that there is a lot that can be improved and I’ve worked on this,” he said, shortly after the game at Stamford Bridge. “I was delighted with the assist for Garnacho and you can definitely expect a lot of good things ahead.”
UNITED RECORD:
Premier League 1 (12) games, 0 goals
FA Cup 0 (2) games, 0 goals
League Cup 1 (2) games, 0 goals
Europe 2 (4) games, 0 goals
Total 4 (20) games, 0 goals
INTERNATIONAL RECORD: 22 caps for Uruguay, 2 goals
SQUAD MEMBERS
Other players to feature for the men’s team...
Injuries to Erik ten Hag’s squad were not an untold story throughout the 2023/24 campaign and, as the saying goes, it was very much a case of ‘next man up’ as the boss utilised the full extent of his first-team group, and rewarded talented youngsters from the Academy with opportunities to impress.
Thirty-two players in total represented the Reds across 2023/24, although no one tallied up more matches than goalkeeper Andre Onana, who turned out in 51 of United’s 52 competitive games between August and May. It meant limited minutes elsewhere in the goalkeeping department, but Altay Bayindir did take the gloves while Onana was at the Africa Cup of Nations with Cameroon, for the FA Cup fourth-round win away to Newport in January. “I’m feeling special today because I was the first Turkish player playing [for United], I’m feeling very proud of myself,” the summer signing said, with a wide smile on his face, as he spoke to MUTV after making his debut for the club in the 4-2 victory.
Fellow goalkeeper and Academy graduate Tom Heaton did not add to the two appearances he made in the prior campaign, but there is little doubting how valuable his experience would have been to a positional department containing Bayindir and Onana, in their first season at Old Trafford.
On the back of winning the Denzil Haroun Reserve-Team Player of the Year award in 2022/23, young midfielder Dan Gore made his first-team bow in September’s Carabao Cup win against Crystal Palace, before later getting his first taste of Premier League football in the Boxing Day success over Aston Villa at Old Trafford, as a late sub. A January loan move to League One outfit Port Vale followed soon after for Gore, as the 19-year-old eyed further development opportunities with more senior minutes.
Fellow midfielder Hannibal also opted for a similar tact in the winter window, having been part of Ten Hag’s squad in the first half of the campaign. Before joining LaLiga club Sevilla, the Tunisia international netted his first senior goal for the
Hannibal comes on for one of his 10 appearances in 2023/24
Reguilon provided defensive cover in the first half of the season
Forson would play seven games for the Reds
Bayindir tasted victory on his debut in South Wales
Reds – a long-range strike v Brighton – in the first of his 10 appearances.
On-loan defender Sergio Reguilon also headed out in January, as he returned to parent club Tottenham following a short stay at Old Trafford. With Tyrell Malacia sidelined for the full season and Luke Shaw injured for much of Reguilon’s stint, the Spaniard’s availability at left-back will have been of value to the boss, as he played 12 times before spending the second half of the campaign with Brentford.
Jadon Sancho was introduced as a substitute in our opening three matches of the term, against Wolves, Tottenham and Forest, before spending the rest of the season back at former club Borussia Dortmund in Germany.
Donny van de Beek also made a temporary move to the Bundesliga, joining Eintracht Frankfurt in January, after making two appearances in the first half of the season. Both of those matches were against Crystal Palace, in September’s respective Carabao Cup and Premier League meetings, and marked a welcome competitive return from a serious injury.
It was a promising season in the professional career of young
midfielder Omari Forson. January saw the London-born midfielder became the 249th Academy graduate to progress to first-team action, coming on for his debut during the final minutes of the 2-0 win away to Wigan Athletic in the third round of the FA Cup. That would prove to be the first of seven senior appearances during 2023/24 for the youngster, including four Premier League games. At the end of the season, Forson was offered the chance to extend his stay at the club, but opted to sign for Serie A side Monza to look for more regular first-team football.
United’s injuries, coupled with the Academy’s highly positive season, saw several youngsters rewarded with first-team involvement at various points of the season. Alvaro Fernandez, Rhys Bennett, Joe
Hugill, Shola Shoretire, Radek Vitek, Harry Amass, Toby Collyer, Louis Jackson, Dermot Mee and Habeeb Ogunneye were all involved in Ten Hag’s matchday squad at least once, as was striker Ethan Wheatley off the back of an impressive season for our trophy-winning Under-18s.
Forward Wheatley became the club’s 250th Academy graduate to play for the first team when he was brought off the bench in April’s 4-2 win over Sheffield United, and later went on to play further cameo roles in May’s fixtures against Crystal Palace and Arsenal. Speaking after making his debut in the win over the Blades, Wheatley told us: “It’s a great club with a massive history, especially in the Academy. It’s just an honour to make my debut, and that number 250 is just a little extra as well.”
Gore in action on his senior bow, at home to Crystal Palace
Midfielder van de Beek in action prior to his loan switch
A landmark season for Wheatley – our latest Academy graduate
LOANEES
Reds racked up
the minutes away from M16,
at clubs across the UK and mainland Europe…
Manchester United continued to utilise the loan system in 2023/24, in order to obtain valuable minutes for senior and rising stars away from Old Trafford.
Young winger Facundo Pellistri followed up 14 games for Erik ten Hag’s side in the first half of the campaign with 15 further matches – and two goals – for LaLiga outfit Granada in 2024.
The Spanish club was also where full-back Alvaro Fernandez, who was named Preston North End’s Young Player of the Year in 2022/23, headed for his next loan step earlier in the campaign. In his homeland, the Spaniard tallied up 14 appearances before a mid-season switch to Portuguese giants Benfica, who exercised the option to make his move permanent after he spent the second half of the term at Estadio da Luz.
Back in Spain, Hannibal played six times for Sevilla from January onwards, under the tutelage of former Watford boss Quique Sanchez Flores. The Tunisia international, like Fernandez, is a former Denzil Haroun ReserveTeam Player of the Year winner at United, as is midfielder Dan Gore, who had the opportunity to go out on his first senior loan spell when signing with Port Vale in January.
It was an ideal new chapter for Gore, on the back of making his senior debut for United and his Premier League bow earlier in the campaign, and the move was something he and his family were keen to explore.
“My dad was shocked,” he told Vale’s media team shortly after signing. “He was like: ‘Son, you’ve got to go there.’ He just knew they’d take care of me and obviously, at this stage of my career, I need that because I’m still developing.”
The midfielder played his first game as a Valiant against Portsmouth later that week, but unfortunately picked up an injury and was subsequently sidelined for the remainder of the campaign. The 19-year-old, who also underwent shoulder surgery in June, will be champing at the bit to get back on the pitch, be that back at United or back out on loan again.
Fernandez helped Benfica to a second-place finish in Portugal
Bennett’s switch to Stockport included a first senior start
Rhys Bennett, Joe Hugill, Maxi Oyedele and Radek Vitek are other fine Academy propsects who enjoyed invaluable experience in 2023/24 with spells at various levels of England’s footballing pyramid, at Stockport County, Burton Albion, Forest Green Rovers and Accrington Stanley respectively, in the second half of the latest campaign.
Meanwhile, Sonny Aljofree (Altrincham), Sam Mather, Sam Murray (both Rochdale) and Tom Wooster (Macclesfield) were the latest batch of young Reds to benefit from an innovative loan system that meant they could train with and play for United’s Under-21s while benefiting from the experience and challenges of non-league football with their newly assigned clubs on an intermittent basis.
Brandon Williams made 17 appearances in Ipswich Town’s promotion-winning season from the Championship under former Reds coach Kieran McKenna, while Charlie McNeill scored once in three games in the opening half of the campaign for Stevenage, before being recalled.
Vitek kept three clean sheets in his first four games for Accrington
Hugill was straight off the mark for Burton with a debut goal
Williams netted twice in the Tractor Boys’ promotion push
North of the border in Scotland, Will Fish returned to Hibernian off the back of a first stint with the Hibees in 2022/23. This time around, the centre-back got a maiden taste of senior European football in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers, while only one fellow outfielder made more appearances for the club than Fish’s 45 across all competitions, as they ultimately finished eighth in the Scottish Premiership.
‘I can only apologise, this season wasn’t good enough for a club like this,’ Fish began, addressing the Hibs fans in a post-season message on his X account. ‘I promise I’ve absolutely loved playing for Hibs and had some incredible memories along the way. Good luck for the future… better times are coming!’
Speaking of going back to familiar territory, Jadon Sancho was on Borussia Dortmund’s books again for the second half of the campaign – having arrived at United from BVB in 2021 – and helped the German side reach the Champions League
Left Fish missed just five of Hibernian’s 50 games across all competitions, taking him to 66 total appearances for the club
Below Midfielder van de Beek made the temporary switch to Germany in a bid to return to his best after a long injury absence
Bottom McNeill was on target once for Stevenage in League One, finding the net in a 3-0 victory at Leyton Orient
final at Wembley Stadium in May, where they were beaten 2-0 by Real Madrid.
Donny van de Beek also headed to the Bundesliga in the winter, joining Eintracht Frankfurt, and featured eight times in total as the club finished sixth and secured Europa League football for the forthcoming campaign. Forward Mason Greenwood spent the 2023/24 term with Getafe, in Spain’s top division, playing 36 times and scoring 10 goals.
DEPARTURES
Players to leave United on a permanent basis...
There was a welcome guest at United’s team hotel on the eve of November’s draw with Galatasaray in Turkey, as ex-Reds midfielder Fred caught up with his old team-mates and staff, just a few months after departing the club. The Brazilian called time on his Old Trafford stay after five years to join Galatasaray’s Istanbul rivals Fenerbahce ahead of 2023/24, posting at the time on social media: ‘It was five years of a true dream for me and my family. I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunity [to play for United]. Forever a Red!’
Fred’s compatriot Alex Telles also bid a fond farewell in the summer, before joining up with his former United peer Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, while Eric Bailly was another player to head to Turkey, signing for Besiktas before a mid-season move back to Villarreal, from where he initially transferred to the Reds in 2016.
Closer to home, there were several players who departed Old Trafford for a new chapter that saw them remain in the English game. Anthony Elanga, Dean Henderson and Teden Mengi began new periods in their careers, having each graduated from our Academy, all with fellow Premier League clubs.
All three faced United over the course of the term too, including on debut for now-Crystal Palace keeper Henderson, who returned to Old Trafford to make his Eagles bow in September’s Carabao Cup tie, which was curtailed prematurely for him due to first-half injury. It was the first of 20 Palace appearances for Dean throughout the season, which he ended with a call-up to England’s final squad for the summer’s Euros.
Elanga’s inaugural year with Nottingham Forest saw him register
Telles
would link up with a familiar face in Saudi Arabia
a combined total of 14 goals and assists in 39 appearances, which included teeing up Forest’s opener in their 2-1 league win against United at the end of December.
The Sweden international came up against his former club three times across the campaign – with an FA Cup fifth-round tie an addition to the two league meetings – while Mengi played the entirety of both of Luton’s top-flight duels with the Reds.
The aforementioned defender featured in 30 of the Hatters’ league games, and in all five of their cup outings, establishing himself as an important member of Rob Edwards’ backline and a shining light for the club from Kenilworth Road, despite relegation from the Premier League.
“For a younger player to step up, come away from home, out of his comfort zone and perform at the highest level as he has is astounding,” said the Luton manager of Mengi.
Another young player that had a new environment to settle into was Charlie Savage, who left M16 to play League One football with Reading. The midfielder, whose sole United appearance came in a Champions League tie against Young Boys in 2021, was a regular for his new club in 2023/24, scoring five times in the 45 occasions he took to the field.
Czech-born keepers Matej Kovar and Ondrej Mastny moved
Bishop departed United after three-and-a-half years
on to Bayer Leverkusen and Vysocina Jihlava respectively, with the former featuring 17 times in Leverkusen’s historic Doublewinning season in Germany, before representing his nation at Euro 2024.
Isak Hansen-Aaroen, Marc Jurado and Logan Pye – all members of our 2022 FA Youth Cup winning squad – will have closed their Old Trafford chapters with fond memories, when starting fresh with Werder Bremen, Espanyol and Burnley respectively.
Fellow Academy graduate Mateo Mejia was a winter arrival at Spanish side Sevilla, while Nathan Bishop – who spent time with both the first-team and Academy set-ups following his arrival from Southend United in 2020 – signed for Sunderland in August, the same month that young Noam Emeran, who scored our opening goal of pre-season against Leeds in Oslo, moved to Dutch side Groningen.
Outgoings continued at the conclusion of the term, with French duo Anthony Martial and Raphael Varane making emotional exits upon the conclusions of their contracts.
Omari Forson, who made his senior bow in January’s FA Cup win at Wigan, also left at the end of the month, joining Italian side Monza, with forward Charlie McNeill and defender Brandon Williams also moving on to pastures new, alongside U21 player-coach Tom Huddlestone
Savage was a regular in his first season with the Royals
MEN’S TEAM: RESULTS & LINE-UPS, 2023/24 SEASON
APPEARANCES, GOALS & ’23/24 PL STATISTICS
UNITED MEN’S TEAM, 2023/24 APPEARANCES & GOALS
1 Man City 38 28 7 3 96 34 +62 91
2 Arsenal 38 28 5 5 91 29 +62 89
3 Liverpool 38 24 10 4 86 41 +45 82
4 Aston Villa 38 20 8 10 76 61 +15 68
5 Tottenham 38 20 6 12 74 61 +13 66
6 Chelsea 38 18 9 11 77 63 +14 63
7 Newcastle 38 18 6 14 85 62 +23 60
8 UNITED 38 18 6 14 57 58 -1 60
9 West Ham 38 14 10 14 60 74 -14 52
10 Crystal Palace 38 13 10 15 57 58 -1 49
11 Brighton 38 12 12 14 55 62 -7 48
12 Bournemouth 38 13 9 16 54 67 -13 48
13 Fulham 38 13 8 17 55 61 -6 47
14 Wolves 38 13 7 18 50 65 -15 46
15 Everton 38 13 9 16 40 51 -11 40
16 Brentford 38 10 9 19 56 65 -9 39
17 Nott’m Forest 38 9 9 20 49 67 -18 32
18 Luton (R) 38 6 8 24 52 85 -33 26
19 Burnley (R) 38 5 9 24 41 78 -37 24
20 Sheff United (R) 38 3 7 28 35 104 -69 16
PREMIER LEAGUE TOP GOALSCORERS
Player Club Gls
Erling Haaland Manchester City 27
Cole Palmer Chelsea 22
Alexander Isak Newcastle United 21
Phil Foden Manchester City 19
Dominic Solanke Bournemouth 19
Ollie Watkins Aston Villa 19
Mohamed Salah Liverpool 18
Heung-min Son Tottenham Hotspur 17
Jarrod Bowen West Ham United 16
Jean-Philippe Mateta Crystal Palace 16
Bukayo Saka Arsenal 16
PREMIER LEAGUE TOP ASSISTS
Player Club Assists
Ollie Watkins Aston Villa 13
Cole Palmer Chelsea 11
Kevin De Bruyne Manchester City 10
Morgan Gibbs-White Nottingham Forest 10
Anthony Gordon Newcastle United 10
Pascal Gross Brighton & Hove Albion 10
Brennan Johnson Tottenham Hotspur 10
Mohamed Salah Liverpool 10
Heung-min Son Tottenham Hotspur 10
Martin Odegaard Arsenal 10
Kieran Tripper Newcastle United 10
TEAM STATISTICS (ALL COMPS)
Played: 52
Wins: 26 (including one win after extra-time, and one after a shoot-out)
Draws: 7
Losses: 19
Biggest win: 3-0 v Crystal Palace (H, 26.09.23) ↑, Everton (A, 26.11.23), West Ham United (H, 04.02.24)
Biggest crowd (home): 73,612 v West Ham United (04.02.24)
Biggest crowd (away, not inc. neutral): 75,000 v Bayern Munich (20.09.23)
The full story of the season for Marc Skinner’s Reds, as well as player profiles for the entire first-team squad, and detailed statistics covering four competitions...
“AT WEMBLEY I GOT A CHANCE TO LOOK AT ALL THE FANS AND SAVOUR THE HAPPINESS WE CREATED. IN LIFE, WE CHASE SUCH MOMENTS!”
MARC SKINNER
The MUW boss looks back over a rollercoaster season that ended so sweetly with silverware...
It was a historic season for our team. In May, we added a Women’s FA Cup to this great club’s history, seven months after competing on the European stage for the very first time. Of course, these are moments we want to keep delivering in the years to come. At the same time, we know our performances have to be more consistent in the WSL than they were last term, and that’s something we’re focused on fixing as we look to the future. Having come close to success in the WSL and FA Cup in 2022/23, winning silverware was a primary objective for us going into 2023/24.
For our supporters, lifting the FA Cup on that special day at Wembley in May was something none of us will forget. This team is six years old, and we already have a major trophy, so we are building towards a bright future. Thinking back to that final, the goals and noise from our fans live with me. But I also think back to when we were on the podium and the players were set to lift the trophy. I got a chance to look at all the fans and savour the happiness we created. In life, we chase such moments! Nevertheless, as a head coach I don’t like reflecting for too long. Anyone in football knows that if you stay still, you stop progressing. So, we’ve got to keep working hard to find ways to make more days like that possible for our United family. That includes competing in the Champions League again, which we got a first taste of last season. While the result didn’t go our way over two legs against PSG, it gave us belief that we could compete at that level. When we drew the first leg at home, we were in the ascendancy and could have scored more that night. But in the away leg, I felt we were below our standards in the first half. We were better after half-time and were unfortunate with
“OUR EVER-PRESENT FANS ARE THE ENERGY BENEATH WHAT WE’RE TRYING TO ACHIEVE. WE SAW THAT LAST SEASON, IN BOTH THE GOOD AND BAD TIMES”
a few decisions that you need to go your way in big games. It wasn’t to be, but these are moments we can grow from. It was a proud moment, and the challenge for us now is to return there. We’ve got to get back to some fundamentals and build our foundations properly again so we’re stable, and that starts in the league. None of us wanted to finish where we did in the WSL last season. We wanted to challenge for the title again, having come so close in 2022/23, but we were not able to do that. It gives me not only the fire to push this team forwards, but also a rude awakening of what we must do to achieve the successes we want. We’ve got to continue to invest and to drive our own standards.
I said after the first game of the season, despite winning at Aston
Villa, that we were dominant but couldn’t take our chances, and that’s something that was probably a theme of the season as it went on. We had our struggles against Arsenal, Chelsea and City in the WSL, but when I reflect on that, I know things could have been very different had we taken the opportunities we created at certain points in some of those games. That is where we had the edge the season before. This time around, we didn’t and then we made uncharacteristic, costly mistakes. We need to have this unbelievable drive to be the very best of ourselves every single day. If we do that, we can get close to the season before, when we only lost three games out of 31 in all competitions. That’s the level we have to get to. Hopefully
as we progress, we can get to that level consistently. It’s the remedy and the poison because we’ve jumped so far so quickly. We want to win. But once you set those standards, if you drop them for a second, it feels worse than it actually is, but it’s probably the reality of where we’re at.
As in the WSL, we didn’t achieve what we set out to do in the Conti Cup. It was another trophy we’d identified to try and win, so for us to go out on a technicality was disappointing. We’d gone through in the most difficult group and lost out as a result of another team fielding an ineligible player. It just didn’t feel right. But there were positives: the 7-0 win over Everton was a standout performance, and we were able to reward several players with debuts in those games.
Home and away, we were able to count on your incredible support from the stands once again
Our squad has continued to develop. One of the strengths of our team is its togetherness, and it’s something I want to continue to build on. You grow when you add different cultures to your team and we were able to do that again with Hinata, Melvine and Geyse coming in, to name a few. We recruited every signing because they are great people as well as great footballers, and hopefully we can get more out of such players next season.
The WSL is the most difficult league in the world, I have no doubt, and coming into that is a challenge for any player. You have to be at your very best every time. Sometimes you hit the ground running; sometimes you don’t.
As you’ve seen with Lisa Naalsund, it took her a while to get used to this league. But, last season, we got to where she’s up to the level of performance that will help us progress. We bring players in to make a difference and you can see the quality they have. We just need the consistency in their performance, and that can take time. You have to give them that. You also need players to come up in big moments. Ella Toone deservedly got her hands on our Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year and Goal of the Season awards and is someone who stepped up to deliver when the team needed her. You look at the Leicester goal specifically and her goal in the final, too. Ella has that quality, and there’s even more to come from her. I’ve got to push her, and drive her standards every day.
Ella shared the Players’ Player of the Year prize with Maya Le Tissier, who has had a brilliant second year with us. Maya is an incredibly gifted footballer. She has a great mentality, a great personality, and she wants to win everything! As such, she wants to get better every day, staying out at training to do extras, and she’s the type of person that develops a culture within a team. I’m pleased we identified her and brought her to United, because I think she’ll be a huge part of this club for many years. Speaking of the future, I’d like to congratulate our Under-16s and
Under-21s on winning silverware, which is exciting for the future. Development and results don’t always go hand-in-hand in youth football, but winning trophies puts you in a moment where you face adversity. You face a moment where it’s not certain and you’ve had to make it certain, and that builds a lot for the experience of a player.
As long as I’ve been in women’s football, Manchester United’s youth teams have always had incredible talent and they’ve done so well to nurture that talent. I think we do a fantastic job here.
For me, it’s always been part of my DNA as a coach to embed young players into teams. It doesn’t matter about age, but it does matter whether you’re ready or not. I’ll continue to do that, because it’s such a big part of our heritage as a club. And so, there are players next year we want to include, that we want to bring into pre-season with us. There’s a balance between education as well, but I want to make sure we can try each year to progress
some players into an opportunity to train and play with the first team.
I want to give credit to the supporting team as well. The support the players get from staff is key. It’s not just the players; it’s everyone involved together, and the staff play a huge part in the feel of our team.
‘Everyone’, it goes without saying, includes our ever-present fans, who are the energy beneath what we’re trying to achieve here. You have seen that last season, in both the good and bad times. There have been moments where, especially at Wembley, we were able to give a bit back and I want more of that.
Next season, I want us to drive our standards even more. I want us to make sure we’re putting ourselves in a position where we can compete for titles. I’m excited to be part of our new growth with INEOS, and the culture and structure we’re building. I want that to be lived and visible for everybody to see. We have the best fans in the world and delivering success for them in the future is something I look forward to. ●
“I’M EXCITED TO BE PART OF OUR NEW GROWTH, AND THE CULTURE AND STRUCTURE WE ARE BUILDING AT THE CLUB”
HISTORY MAKERS
After going so close to glory the previous term, winning silverware was a primary aim in ’23/24 – and the Reds rose to the FA Cup challenge...
United Women entered the new campaign on the back of a historic 2022/23 season, which included a record-high finish and points tally in the WSL, a first FA Cup final appearance and the clinching of an inaugural Champions League berth.
Having narrowly missed out on silverware in both the league and Cup, there was one premier motivation as 2023/24 kicked off: to win a first major trophy since the team’s formation five years earlier.
“We created so much history last season, but Manchester United is about winning trophies and that’s certainly something we want to do,” stated captain Katie Zelem during the Reds’ pre-season trip to Germany, where a duel with Bayern Munich was an apt test ahead of a term in which United were preparing to make another step up to compete among Europe’s elite.
A 2-2 draw with Leicester and a narrow 1-0 win over Everton – both at Carrington – had provided stern battles against fellow domestic top-flight opposition to get the summer preparations under way, before the trip overseas offered a chance for the side to properly
reform the bond that had been so important to the prior season’s success, while integrating the first batch of arrivals. Defensive duo Gemma Evans and Evie Rabjohn, of Reading and Aston Villa respectively beforehand, were members of the travelling party, as were ex-Rangers midfielder Emma Watson and Geyse, a versatile attacker fresh off the plane from Barcelona.
All four played a part in the clash with Bayern, which included the latter netting for the first time as a Red, in a useful outing that ended in a narrow 3-2 loss to the German side.
Returning to home soil after a beneficial camp, mid-September triumphs over fellow WSL outfits Liverpool and Spurs completed the pre-season schedule, as Marc Skinner’s squad was bolstered by further new faces before the competitive opener.
Spanish World Cup-winning midfielder Irene Guerrero, and Hinata Miyazawa – recipient of the tournament’s Golden Boot prize for her goals with Japan –arrived to boost United’s midfield options, while Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Gabby George and Melvine Malard (loan) all added further
top-level experience and quality to the goalkeeping, defensive and attacking ranks respectively.
ACTION-PACKED START
When the season did get under way on 1 October – delayed due to the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand – it was well worth the wait for all of a Reds persuasion, and particularly for those who were among the 12,533 at Villa Park.
Starting on the road for the first time since our inaugural WSL term in 2019/20, United kicked things off with a come-from-behind win over
Leigh Sports Village was busier than ever for United games in 2023/24, with record numbers flowing through the turnstiles
Carla Ward’s Aston Villa, that had sparked into life after a 74th-minute red card for ex-Reds winger Kirsty Hanson, following what was judged to have been a high challenge on her former colleague Hayley Ladd. Despite having a numerical advantage, things didn’t initially go to plan for Skinner’s Reds, with Rachel Daly putting the hosts ahead just moments after they had been reduced to 10 players. United’s fighting spirit would soon come to the fore though, with Lucia Garcia finding space to fire us back on terms with a low strike, before an
The impressive opening-day win against Reading was a strong sign of what was to come in the league for Skinner’s side
Geyse – one of eight senior summer arrivals – in action on her debut at Villa Park
expertly executed looping header from Rachel Williams in stoppage time ensured a winning start.
That resilience was on show again in a blockbuster home opener just five days later, as Arsenal were the visitors to Leigh Sports Village for a Friday-night clash in the WSL, watched by a record LSV crowd for a United Women game, of 8,312, who were eagerly anticipating seeing the Reds back on our own turf.
Leah Galton pounced on a goalkeeping mistake to draw us level after Stina Blackstenius’s early opener, before Malard made an instant impact off the bench on debut, netting a go-ahead goal that would get her season-long loan from Lyon off to a flying start. It looked to be a strike that would be another late game-winner, having arrived in the 81st minute, but Cloe Lacasse’s stoppage-time equaliser for the Gunners meant the points were shared at the full-time whistle.
There was no time to dwell on what might have been, with focus quickly turning to the first half of our inaugural UEFA Women’s Champions League assignment in the following midweek: a two-legged second qualifying round tie against French giants Paris Saint-Germain.
Battling from behind once more, after Tabitha Chawinga’s deadlock-
breaker had found a way through the Reds’ austere defensive efforts – led by a succession of excellent saves from Mary Earps – Malard played the super-sub role once more, coming on to nod home a leveller that took the tie to Paris for the second leg at 1-1.
United headed to the French capital a week later, by way of a draw at home to Leicester in the WSL – a game that would sadly see Gabby George’s season end through injury – but the Reds would ultimately come up short in our quest to reach the group phase of the Champions League, despite Norwegian midfielder Lisa Naalsund’s first goal for the club.
Lieke Martens had restored PSG’s advantage on aggregate before Naalsund’s first-time finish in the second half, which the hosts followed up with two more goals to seal their progression.
“I’m sad it ends now but I hope we can build on it and hopefully come back stronger,” said our Norwegian goalscorer afterwards, disappointed that her inaugural strike didn’t go towards a winning effort in Europe.
Elimination meant the Reds would enter the Continental League Cup via Group B, where Everton, Leicester, Liverpool and Man City were waiting. Before kicking off that
cup campaign, however, there were WSL points to be won in a pair of games either side of the season’s first international break.
BIG WINS, RECORD CROWD
First up was a trip to the Toffees, where the Reds produced an emphatic response to the midweek defeat in France, thrashing Everton 5-0 at Walton Hall Park, to underline intentions of returning to Europe’s top table once more in the future.
Malard was again among the scorers, ensuring she was quickly becoming a fans’ favourite, while Nikita Parris and Williams hit braces as the Reds concluded a busy sixgame month with a resounding win.
The south coast was the location of our first game after the international hiatus, with the Reds’ resolve tested once more in our November opener, as Skinner’s side twice came back from a trailing position against Brighton. A wonder strike from Ella Toone – something that would become a theme of the
A historic European away day as the Reds walk out in Paris
Toone celebrates a wonder strike at Brighton –it would become quite a theme of the season...
campaign – had drawn us level at 1-1, before 98th-minute heroics from Williams (on four goals for the season by this point) ensured Guro Bergsvand’s 89th-minute goal didn’t send us home empty-handed.
Williams’s fine start to her second season at the club continued in the next outing, as she netted in another high-scoring win over Everton, this time to help us get up and running in the Conti Cup, by powering home a pinpoint Jayde Riviere cross. The Toffees were beaten 7-0 on this occasion, at LSV, with Parris (3),
Ladd, Geyse and Galton also on target, as Rabjohn and Tullis-Joyce became the latest debutants.
Geyse and Parris were also among the scorers in a 5-0 WSL thumping of West Ham that followed, as the Reds began to build some momentum with another sizeable victory, set up by a dominant first-half performance.
Back-to-back big wins were a welcome sight as the Reds returned to Old Trafford for the first time in 2023/24, for a blockbuster Manchester derby clash with City.
A record women’s home crowd of 43,615 watched Zelem nudge United ahead from the penalty spot, but this time Skinner’s team were prevented from kicking on, with City instead turning the game on its head before leaving M16 as 3-1 victors.
MOMENTUM ON THE ROAD
The Reds hit the road looking to get back to winning ways, with the first of three successive away fixtures presenting Liverpool as the opponents for the first time in the campaign, on matchday two of our Conti Cup schedule.
Parris got the only goal, striking home from the edge of the penalty area, as United triumphed once more on Merseyside. American goalkeeper Tullis-Joyce was due credit for her role in the victory, on the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday in her homeland, ensuring Parris’s attempt was the sole one on the scoresheet. A stunning reaction stop kept out a hooked effort from Missy Bo Kearns, after Phallon had →
Tullis-Joyce takes the plaudits after a memorable clean sheet against Liverpool in the Conti Cup
given a polite shove to Kearns’s team-mate Leanne Kiernan to set herself. It was the first of what would be three wins and as many clean sheets in a row for the Reds following the derby defeat. Nikita notched again as we took three WSL points from Bristol City, via a 2-0 victory, with Hinata also finding the net for the first time. A scoring appearance in the South West would prove to be the Japan international’s final outing for us until late March, due to a long-term ankle injury picked up while representing her nation in the international break.
After the pause for another round of national-team fixtures, it was Tottenham who were put to the sword in the capital by four goals – a procession started by Hannah Blundell’s cross-shot finding its way in – keeping up a healthy run of away form that ensured we remained unbeaten on our travels domestically in 2023/24, ahead of two final home outings before the winter break. The first
of those December matches came in the Conti Cup, with a 100 per cent record in the competition maintained – and top spot in the group acquired going into the final round of fixtures – when Leicester City were beaten 3-1 at LSV, before Liverpool took revenge for their cup loss by taking all three points from a league clash that closed out our 2023 three days later.
“This year we are having to adapt, we are having to evolve,” explained head coach Skinner, after we were narrowly beaten by Matt Beard’s side. “There have been stumbles
this season. We are not always on the same page – we have to make sure we are all on the same page on a more consistent basis.”
United ended the calendar year occupying fourth place in the WSL, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference and seven points behind leaders Chelsea, knowing there was much work to be done in the league when the campaign resumed on the other side of the festive period.
BACK TO IT
Preparations for a big second half of the season properly kicked into gear in Malta, as the Reds returned to the Mediterranean island for a winter training camp, having first done the same the year before.
A 2-1 win over Dutch club PSV while out there got that winning feeling back, and Skinner’s players experienced it again when kicking off 2024 – and our Women’s FA Cup campaign – with a 5-0 win over thirdtier Newcastle in the fourth round. It was the fifth time in the season
The season’s two Old Trafford fixtures drew a combined attendance of 72,352, although the Reds couldn’t add to our four previous wins in M16
“THIS YEAR WE’RE HAVING TO ADAPT, WE ARE HAVING TO EVOLVE” – MARC SKINNER
that United had come out on top in a game by four or more goals, and a marker of ambition for the new year from Skinner’s Reds, with Toone’s curled opener from the edge of the box a particular highlight –as much as the superhero-style celebration that followed!
Chelsea had been the only WSL side that we’d not met in the first half of the campaign, meaning an early assembly after the new year, as our league season resumed with a trip to Stamford Bridge. The Blues, who narrowly beat us to the title in 2022/23, emerged 3-1 winners, exRed Lauren James netting all three.
The big games kept on coming, as did the competitions, as January’s derby showdown with Manchester City in the Conti Cup decided the winner of Group B, and the automatic progressor to the quarter-finals of the competition.
Goals from Chloe Kelly and Lauren Hemp meant Parris’s stoppage-time effort was only a consolation, as our crosstown rivals leapfrogged us to finish top. Nevertheless, United’s nine points looked to be enough to send us through as one of the competition’s two best second-place sides, but a later points deduction for Aston Villa due to the fielding of an ineligible player meant it was they who took our spot as one of the runners-up with most points, having been demoted from Group A’s summit following the deduction, and went through with Tottenham. As such, it felt like a very harsh exit
to the competition for United. That decision came a day after the Reds ensured focus remained on what we could control, by completing a league double over Villa, as Parris scored twice, and Toone made an unprecedented 150th appearance for the team. “It’s really special, something I never thought would happen,” said a breathless Toone, after playing her part in the victory. “I absolutely love playing for this club, the club I’ve grown up supporting and every time I step on to the pitch it’s special. Hopefully there’s many more appearances to come.”
Another home triumph at LSV, over Brighton the following week –Parris adding another brace to her growing tally in a 2-0 win –was perfect preparation for the resumption of the FA Cup.
CUP PROGRESSION
Championship side Southampton were the opponents in the fifth round and, despite a brief scare when Lexi Lloyd-Smith cancelled out Toone’s opener to draw the Saints level in the second half, two brave close-range headers from Williams made sure United went marching on to the last eight. Aoife Mannion’s late introduction was a further positive, as she returned from a long-term injury that had kept her sidelined for the entirety of the campaign to that point.
With progression secured in the Cup, attentions turned back to the league and an important clash in the race for a top-three place. If we
Some warm-weather training proved beneficial for the squad, including some Academy prospects, in early January
“LAST SEASON, I SAT AND WATCHED CHELSEA PICK UP THAT TROPHY AND THOUGHT: ‘NAH, NOT NEXT YEAR’” – RACHEL WILLIAMS
could beat Arsenal in front of a bumper crowd at Emirates Stadium, as we had done in the previous season, the Reds would go a point behind the hosts in third.
Departed forward Alessia Russo got our winner on that occasion, but this time she was on the Gunners’ side and helped them to take all the points, with a win that would leave our hopes of an immediate return to the Champions League a tall order.
Two more points were dropped in the capital when we kicked off March at West Ham after a late equaliser cancelled out Williams’s early opener, but despite
a stutter in the league, the Reds continued to power on in the FA Cup. Having beaten Brighton on the way to finishing runners-up in the prior campaign, United again got the better of the Seagulls in the competition, this time at the quarter-final stage, with a four-goal triumph by the seaside setting up a rematch of last year’s final with Chelsea in the semi-finals.
Before that mid-April clash were three important WSL games, from which Skinner’s side took six points from nine available. Either side of a derby defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad, it was Naalsund’s double
that downed Bristol City, before a comeback win at home to Everton at the end of March. After the Toffees had taken an early lead, a momentum-swinging eight minutes after the break, which yielded three goals, proved decisive. It saw Millie Turner and Toone (2) net, before Galton completed the scoring late on against Brian Sorensen’s side.
The FA Cup then took centre stage once more, as Chelsea arrived in Leigh for a blockbuster last-four clash. In the mid-April sunshine, Lucia Garcia’s header from pointblank range meant United made the brightest start, before Williams
followed suit to make it 2-0 midway through the first half. A staunch defensive effort followed, even if former Red James’s goal back on the stroke of half-time did prod the nerves of the home contingent around LSV, and United held on to secure a return to the FA Cup final, just shy of 12 months after defeat to the Blues under the arch.
Garcia and Williams were our scoring heroes at LSV that day, but Earps more than earned another crack at a winner’s medal, with an inspired performance – the high point being an incredible full-stretch stop to deny James a second goal.
THE HOME STRETCH
Before heading to the capital, full focus switched back to the WSL, as United pushed to keep our slim hopes of a top-three place alive.
A 2-2 draw with Tottenham in an exhilarating dress-rehearsal of the forthcoming final did mathematically do that after Maya Le Tissier bundled home a last-gasp equaliser, in the week she signed a new contract with the club, but our ambitions of Champions League football for the following campaign were dashed later in the day when Arsenal confirmed a third-place finish by beating Leicester.
A positive response was produced though when the Foxes were our next opponents at King Power Stadium, as the Reds looked to mount a strong finish to the league campaign and build some momentum ahead of the Cup final.
Toone, shortly after coming on as a sub, made sure those objectives were fulfilled in the East Midlands, with a long-range rocket that found the top corner proving to be the only goal of a successful day on the road.
Prenton Park was the next destination with the hope of a similar result against Liverpool at the start of May, and while a 1-0 scoreline was repeated, this time it went in favour of the hosts after Jenna Clark nodded in at the far post during first-half stoppage time. It was an outcome that saw United
drop below our North West rivals and into fifth, the position in which we would finish the campaign.
WHAT A DAY AT WEMBLEY
There was one WSL game to go in 2023/24 – an Old Trafford clash with Chelsea on the final day – but not before Skinner’s team had the opportunity to play for the right to lift the FA Cup. Spurs were the opponents at Wembley – in front of 76,082 supporters – and as a nervy first half approached its culmination, a moment of magic turned the game in United’s favour.
In similar fashion to at Leicester a fortnight earlier, Toone brilliantly opened the scoring with a curler from distance and the Reds never looked back from that point on. Williams then diverted home a flighted free-kick into the box from skipper Zelem to create further breathing room just after half-time, before Garcia struck twice before the 75-minute mark to ensure there was enough time for our fans in attendance to enjoy the magnitude of the encounter, with little worry of the tide turning against us.
“We’ve had ups and downs this season, but we are on such a moment and we’re going to enjoy it,” said Williams after helping United to record a historic FA Cup victory, and a first piece of silverware since the Championship glory of 2019. “Last season, I sat and watched Chelsea pick up that trophy and thought: ‘Nah, not next year.’ We’re here, we’ve won it, and these are the days you want.”
Having soaked in every bit of the celebrations under the arch, the Reds brought the trophy back to the Theatre of Dreams six days later and paraded it on the pitch after the full-time whistle of our seasoncloser at home to Chelsea. A big victory for the visitors meant they also had their own bit of silverware to lift in M16, as they retained their WSL crown ahead of Man City.
Skinner’s Reds, after securing a significant honour of our own, will be keen to kick on as 2024/25 comes around and being part of the pack looking to dethrone Chelsea will no doubt be a central objective in the months ahead. Bring it on!
Party time after the landmark FA Cup triumph at Wembley, with Williams (left) among our goalscorers
An assessment of the season for every Red to pull on the famous shirt
A total of 33 fixtures were played across four competitions for Marc Skinner’s Reds in 2023/24 – record numbers on both counts for United Women. Eight players made at
27 MARY EARPS WOMEN’S TEAM PROFILES & STATS
Earps hit a milestone in October when she played her 100th United game, in the WSL clash with Leicester. In December, she was named BBC Sports Personality of the Year and a month later retained her Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper title. When the Reds beat Chelsea to reach the FA Cup final, it was in no small part due to her brilliance, including an astonishing reaction save to deny Lauren James. Mary’s clean sheet at Wembley would be her penultimate game as a Red ahead of her move to Paris Saint-Germain on 1 July.
least 30 appearances, while a trio – Hannah Blundell, Maya Le Tissier and Ella Toone – featured in every game. An early Champions League exit would be followed in
Position Goalkeeper
DOB 07/03/1993
Previous clubs
Leicester City, Nottingham Forest, Doncaster Rovers Belles, Coventry City (loan), Birmingham City, Bristol City, Reading, Wolfsburg
United record
125 apps/0 goals
International career
50 caps/0 goals for England
January with a group-stage elimination in the Conti Cup – albeit in contentious circumstances – but the Reds’ long and ultimately triumphant run in the FA Cup would offer much
91 PHALLON TULLIS-JOYCE
It hasn’t been easy competing with the keeper named the world’s best by FIFA, but Tullis-Joyce impressed when her chances came in the Conti Cup. A cat-like reflex save helped secure a 1-0 win over Liverpool; showcasing the 6ft stopper’s dexterity. That was the second of four appearances, while the New Yorker has thrown herself into life off the pitch since moving to Manchester, with the keen marine biologist named a 2023/24 PFA Community Champion for her work supporting Manchester United Foundation.
opportunity for squad rotation, with 19 players used over five matches en route to lifting the trophy at Wembley. Here’s a player-by-player review of a landmark campaign...
Position Goalkeeper
DOB 19/10/1996
Previous clubs
Miami Hurricanes (college), Reims, OL Reign
United record 4 apps/0 goals
3 GABBY GEORGE
When George signed for United at the end of the summer window, it marked a full circle in her career. The versatile defender has been a United fan since birth and grew up as part of the club’s youth structure before carving out a senior path at Everton. But in just her fourth game back –October’s home draw with Leicester – Gabby suffered the devastation of an ACL injury. It was the second of her career, and it would end her season. Gabby was able to return to the grass at Carrington just under six months later, and she’ll be hoping for better luck in 2024/25.
5 AOIFE MANNION
Mannion signed a new contract last summer but injury cruelly delayed her first appearance of 2023/24 until she featured as a late substitute for Republic of Ireland during February’s international break. Aoife’s first United start of the campaign came in the thumping win over Everton on Easter Sunday – the start of a spell that saw the versatile defender provide vital depth and injury cover in a less-familiar right-back role. That included 90 minutes in April’s historic FA Cup win over Chelsea, when she contained the mercurial Guro Reiten.
Position Defender
DOB 02/02/1997
Previous clubs
Everton
United record
4 apps/0 goals
International career
2 caps/0 goals for England
4 MAYA LE TISSIER
Across 2023/24, Le Tissier was the only United player to feature in every minute of every game. That level of dependability is why she’s already racked up 64 appearances in just two seasons at the club, the Channel Islander marking game no.50 in January’s WSL win over Aston Villa. Leadership skills have continued to shine through, even though she didn’t turn 22 until April. A contract extension was announced the day after her birthday and she finished 2023/24 as the team’s joint Players’ Player of the Year. Maya also added to her two England caps in February’s victory against Austria.
Position Defender
DOB 24/09/1995
Previous clubs
Aston Villa, Birmingham City, Manchester City
United record
35 apps/0 goals
International career
7 caps/0 goals for Republic of Ireland
6 HANNAH BLUNDELL
Coming off an outstanding season at left-back in 2022/23, Blundell initially switched over to the right in the early of weeks of the new campaign, before George’s season-ending injury ensured it was short-term. The former Chelsea defender spent most of the months ahead back on the left and ultimately started all but one game across every competition, scoring once to kick-start December’s win at Spurs. Off the pitch, June 2024 was a big month for Hannah, as she married her partner Tom Pett, a midfielder for Cheltenham Town.
Position Defender
DOB 18/04/2002
Previous clubs
Brighton & Hove Albion
United record
64 apps/4 goals
International career
3 caps/0 goals for England
Position Defender
DOB 25/05/1994
Previous clubs
Chelsea
United record
91 apps/3 goals
International career
3 caps/0 goals for England
14 JAYDE RIVIERE
Although an experienced Canada international with an Olympic gold medal to her name, this was –remarkably – a first full season of professional club football for Riviere following the end of her college career, a short stay in a development league and her arrival at United in January 2023. A first start away against PSG was a baptism of fire, but the growth in the right-back’s confidence with each performance was clear to see during autumn and into winter. Injuries limited her game time in early 2024, but she regained fitness in time to start at Wembley.
21 MILLIE TURNER
With 31 appearances in 2023/24, Turner is hurtling towards 150 in a United shirt. Her reputation as one of the best and most consistent centre-backs in the WSL was underlined in November by a first England call-up in almost three years, which would lead to a senior Lionesses debut in February. A real presence in both boxes, this was also the joint best goalscoring season of Millie’s career, with three. One was a stunner in the rout of West Ham, while she got the ball rolling in our Cup quarter-final win against Brighton with a typically solid header.
Position Defender
DOB 22/01/2001
Previous clubs
Michigan Wolverines (college), AFC Ann Arbor
United record
23 app/0 goals
International career
45 caps/1 goal for Canada
Position Defender
DOB 07/07/1996
Previous clubs
Everton, Bristol City
United record
144 apps/10 goals
International career
1 cap/0 goals for England
15 GEMMA EVANS
A “diehard defender” by her own admission, and someone who will “do anything I can to make the team better”. Evans brought grit, WSL nous and much international experience, as well as crucial versatility, into the backline upon her July arrival from Reading. Over the course of 2023/24, she started nine games across all competitions, at either centre-back, left-back or right-back, depending on the needs of the team. She also stepped off the bench 10 times, when fresh defensive legs or an extra layer of protection was needed in the second half of games.
25 EVIE RABJOHN
Rabjohn’s recruitment in the final weeks of 2022/23 was driven by her immense long-term potential and it’s been a year full of learning since. Part of that has been about building mental resilience, after the high of making her United debut against Everton in the Conti Cup in November was soon followed by the discovery of a stress fracture in her foot. When fit, the teenage full-back was a regular selection in first-team matchday squads, but she also had the chance to be part of the U21 side that became national champions.
Position Defender
DOB 01/08/1996
Previous clubs
Cardiff City, Yeovil Town,
Bristol City, Reading
United record
19 apps/0 goals
International career 56 caps/1 goal for Wales
Position Defender
DOB 28/04/2005
Previous clubs
Aston Villa
United record
1 app/0 goals
International career England U17/U19
7 ELLA TOONE
Our Player of the Year and joint Players’ Player of the Year for 2023/24 also became the first Red to reach 50 goals when she netted in March’s 4-1 win over Everton at LSV. Ella scored many outstanding strikes in 2023/24 and her Wembley screamer that set the team on the way to FA Cup glory would be voted United Women’s Goal of the Season, ahead of similarly brilliant ‘Tooney’ efforts against Newcastle, Brighton and Leicester. While such long-range rockets understandably grabbed her the headlines, Ella’s all-round play just behind the attack was equally key to the team.
10 KATIE ZELEM
A year on from the heartbreak of Wembley defeat, Zelem got to experience the euphoria of lifting the FA Cup in her fifth season as United skipper. Hot on the heels of Toone, she was another to hit 150 appearances in 2023/24, doing so in February’s trip to Arsenal. Creativity in midfield and her delivery from set-pieces remained huge weapons and Zel led the team with assists (10 in all competitions). As one of the ‘Originals’ it’ll be strange not seeing her in a United shirt next season following her June exit, but she leaves as a club legend.
Position Midfielder
DOB 02/09/1999
Previous clubs
Blackburn Rovers,
Manchester City
United record
164 apps/53 goals
International career
50 caps/19 goals for England
8 IRENE GUERRERO
A few months into her time at United, Guerrero admitted feeling surprised at the sheer level of support from United’s fans, especially those travelling up and down the country to follow the team. “They never give up on you,” the World Cup winner remarked, with those same fans staying firmly behind her despite only seeing the no.8 start one game, alongside six substitute runouts. An early-season injury made things difficult for Irene, who has had to adapt to a new country, but a quality assist against Everton on her debut was evidence of her undoubted ability.
Position Midfielder
DOB 20/01/1996
Previous clubs
Liverpool, Juventus
United record
161 apps/32 goals
International career
12 caps/0 goals for England
12 HAYLEY LADD
Ladd saw her role change over 2023/24 as competition for midfield places grew, but she still became just the sixth Reds centurion in February, having also been lauded as a “key leader” by Marc Skinner upon signing a new contract in December. Our no.12 captained the side against Liverpool in the Conti Cup and put in a fine all-round WSL display away to Spurs that month. Behind the scenes, she’s long been tipped for a future in coaching and took the next steps towards that when she completed her UEFA ‘A’ License qualification.
Position Midfielder
DOB 12/12/1996
Previous clubs
Real Betis, Levante, Atletico Madrid
United record
7 apps/0 goals
International career
26 caps/5 goals for Spain
Position Midfielder
DOB 06/10/1993
Previous clubs
Arsenal, Kokkola Futis 10 (loan), Coventry City, Bristol City, Birmingham City
United record
104 apps/12 goals
International career
93 caps/2 goals for Wales
16 LISA NAALSUND
Hard work paid off for Naalsund in 2023/24 as she hit her stride in the second half of the season and nailed down a regular starting place. She was particularly commended for her attitude and training displays during January’s Malta camp, bringing an all-action quality to the centre of the pitch while showing an eye for goal that would see her end the season with five goals – a powerful strike from outside the box against Brighton in the FA Cup being a highlight. Her ability to press high to win the ball or force mistakes in opposition territory is an increasingly valuable asset.
9 MELVINE MALARD
Brought in on loan from European heavyweights Lyon, it took Malard just five minutes to open her WSL account after coming off the bench v Arsenal in October. Four days later, she had the honour of becoming our first ever scorer in the Champions League –a competition she’s won previously with Lyon. An effervescent presence on and off the pitch, the livewire no.9 went on to provide many quality moments, such as her display away to Spurs in December, before turning the screw on the same opposition at Wembley.
Position Midfielder
DOB 11/06/1995
Previous clubs
Arna-Bjornar, Brann
United record
29 apps/5 goals
International career
20 caps/0 goals for Norway
20 HINATA MIYAZAWA
Last summer’s World Cup Golden Boot winner made her debut on the opening day at Aston Villa and featured in 12 successive games in all competitions until a foot injury while on international duty in December unfortunately sidelined her until the end of March. Miyazawa’s intelligent attacking link-up has stood out, such as when she played in Malard to score just five minutes into both players’ maiden LSV game in October, against Arsenal. But with one season in England now under her belt, Hinata will be hoping it serves as a solid foundation to kick on.
Position Forward
DOB 28/06/2000
Previous clubs
Lyon, Fleury (loan)
United record
29 apps/7 goals
International career
22 caps/6 goals for France
11 LEAH GALTON
An adored member of our remaining 2018 ‘Originals’, Galton gave fans plenty to celebrate in January when she extended her contract. Her sixth season at the club came with five assists, behind only Toone, Zelem and Naalsund. Among them were the lofted far-post cross for Williams’s decisive goal in our FA Cup win at Southampton, and the first-minute centre for Garcia to nod us ahead in the semi against Chelsea. Leah’s season sadly ended 50 minutes into the Wembley final with an ankle injury, but it didn’t stop her savouring the win.
Position Midfielder
DOB 28/11/1999
Previous clubs
Tokyo Verdy Beleza, Mynavi Sendai
United record
17 apps/1 goal
International career
36 caps/9 goals for Japan
Position Forward
DOB 24/05/1994
Previous clubs
Leeds United, Hofstra Pride (college), Sky Blue FC, Bayern Munich
United record
135 apps/37 goals
International career
England U15/U17/U19/U23
17 LUCIA GARCIA
From accidentally dropping an expletive on live TV following our season opener to tripping on the steps down from Wembley’s Royal Box to a chorus of cackles from her team-mates, Garcia raised many smiles off the pitch in 2023/24. But her actions on it, particularly in the FA Cup, had a defining impact for her team. Four goals in the competition included one in the semi, and a final brace that capped off a thumping win, with Lucia again showing her poacher’s instinct to find the net. She departed the club at the end of June following the expiry of her contract.
23 GEYSE
A first season in England following her club-record transfer from Barcelona showed plenty of promise. Geyse’s electric pace and mesmerising dribbling captured the imagination of fans delighted to welcome only the team’s second ever South American player. The understanding between Geyse and Parris was particularly devastating during February’s WSL win over Brighton, Geyse laying on both goals for our no.22 with carbon copy cutbacks from the right. Geyse was also part of the Brazil squad that finished runners-up at the inaugural Concacaf W Gold Cup in March.
Position Forward
DOB 14/07/1998
Previous clubs
Oviedo Moderno, Athletic Club
United record
60 apps/16 goals
International career
46 caps/11 goals for Spain
Position Forward
DOB 27/03/1998
Previous clubs
Centro Olimpico, Corinthians, Madrid CFF, Benfica, Madrid
CFF, Barcelona
United record
26 apps/2 goals
International career
56 caps/8 goals for Brazil
22 NIKITA PARRIS
Our top scorer in 2023/24, Parris’s final tally of 16 goals was only two short of Jess Sigsworth’s club record mark for a single season, set during 2018/19. After sitting out a few games in the early weeks of the campaign, former club Everton took the brunt of a sudden burst into form in late October as ‘Keets’ scored five times against them across WSL and Conti Cup meetings less than three weeks apart. Into the new year, further impressive Parris braces followed against Newcastle in the FA Cup, and Aston Villa and Brighton in the league.
28 RACHEL WILLIAMS
Age has not slowed Williams down, with her 11 goals being her most prolific campaign since 2011 when she was the WSL’s first Golden Boot winner. Rach led the way for United in the FA Cup, finding the net five times – in the fourth round, fifth round, semi-final and final. She has primarily been used as an impact sub since joining United in 2022, with the majority of her appearances again coming off the bench, but starts in the Chelsea semifinal and then at Wembley for our biggest game of the season highlight just how much she is trusted.
Position Forward
DOB 10/03/1994
Previous clubs Everton, Manchester City, Lyon, Arsenal
United record
57 apps/25 goals
International career
71 caps/17 goals for England
Position Forward
DOB 10/01/1988
Previous clubs
Leicester City, Doncaster
Rovers Belles, Leicester City, Birmingham City, Chelsea, Notts County, Birmingham City, Tottenham Hotspur
United record
56 apps/17 goals
International career
13 caps/4 goals for England
SQUAD MEMBERS
Others involved within MUW’s first-team squad
There was plenty of buzz and excitement when United sealed the signing of Scotland midfielder Emma Watson, then just 17, from Rangers, for whom she had previously appeared in the Women’s Champions League.
Having arrived on 25 August, an ACL injury during a training session on international duty in September ended her season before it had even started. Emma’s maturity was something Marc Skinner referenced when she first arrived and, several months into her rehab, she was feeling level-headed and positive about the situation. “It’s just football, it’s life, injuries are a part of the
sport,” she reflected in late March. “I probably will have more injuries, hopefully never as severe as this, but it’s just a learning experience and something that I’m going to grow from.”
Throughout the campaign, the Reds had a number of young players on the fringes of the first team, learning as they go. Teenage defender Lucy Newell, our U21 Players’ Player of the Year, regularly trained with the seniors and was named on the bench for the Conti Cup visit of Everton. She was also part of the squad that travelled to Malta in January, as well as splitting her time between the
U21s and a dual registration with West Bromwich Albion.
Olivia Francis and Phoebe Chadwick were two others on the plane to Malta, later earning themselves places on the bench for the FA Cup trip to Southampton in February. The latter was also among the substitutes against Manchester City in the Conti Cup in late January.
After United’s coaching staff made the decision to cut short her loan at Everton to consider other development opportunities, Alyssa Aherne became a regular feature of Marc Skinner’s matchday squads in the second half of the season.
The exciting winger turned 20 in February and was chosen for games against Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea in the WSL and FA Cup, among 11 first-team involvements.
Newell made a senior matchday squad for the first time, against Everton
Aherne was on the bench for 11 of our final 15 first-team fixtures
Watson will hope to kick on next season after a lengthy injury absence
LOANEES AND DEPARTURES
Those to play elsewhere, and those who moved on
United Women arranged loans over the course of 2023/24 for a number of emerging talents seeking to supplement their ongoing development with senior game time.
For Grace Clinton, a season at Tottenham was another huge stride towards fulfilling her sky-high potential. She thrived in a resurgent Spurs side, who were bouncing back from a disappointing 2022/23 campaign, and quickly became a regular starter for their new boss Robert Vilahamn, providing four goals and four assists from midfield in her 20 WSL appearances.
Grace also helped them to a maiden FA Cup final but was ineligible to play against the Reds at Wembley. Her overall performances didn’t go unnoticed by Sarina Wiegman, as she was called up to the senior England squad for the first time in October and made her debut against Austria in February, scoring inside the first 19 minutes.
In January, goalkeeper Safia Middleton-Patel joined Watford for the remainder of the campaign. The Hornets were already struggling at bottom of the Women’s Championship and Saf’s efforts in goal – including two impressive clean sheets in six appearances – were ultimately not enough to save them from relegation.
Left-back Jess Simpson saw her season-long loan to Bristol City end after only five weeks due to an ACL injury, while Keira Barry spent the campaign with Crystal Palace’s Championship-winning squad but was limited to one appearance because of injury problems.
Eleanor Ashton joined ex-United team-mate Rebecca May at Derby
County, helping the Ewes win the FA Women’s National League Plate and scoring in the final. Burnley finished second in the WNL North with Bella Reidford in their ranks, and Layla Proctor combined captaining our Under-21s with a dual registration loan at Huddersfield Town.
There were also similar moves for Holly Deering and Jennifer Handy to Liverpool Feds, Mayzee Davies to AFC Fylde, and Fay Al-Qaimi to Stoke City during the season.
As for permanent transfers since the end of August, Martha Thomas left for Tottenham in September, notably going on to score winning goals in a north London derby and their FA Cup semi-final.
Maria Thorisdottir and Sophie Baggaley both made the switch to Brighton, while Carrie Jones also stayed within the WSL by joining newly promoted Bristol City, as did Adriana Leon with Aston Villa.
Ivana Fuso began a new chapter in the Championship with Birmingham, with Vilde Boe Risa swapping Manchester for Madrid as she joined Atletico in Spain’s LigaF
Middleton-Patel was a bright spark for relegated Watford
Baggaley missed just three WSL games for Brighton in 2023/24
Clinton’s fine season included a first senior England cap
Thorisdottir was reunited with the Reds in the WSL
Simpson’s loan switch to Palace was unfortunately cut short by injury
APPEARANCES, GOALS & ’23/24 WSL STATISTICS
WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE, FINAL TABLE
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 Brighton 22 5 4 13 -22 19
10 Leicester 22 4 6 12 -19 18
11 West Ham 22 3 6 13 -25 15
12 Bristol City (R) 22 1 3 18 -50 6
UNITED WOMEN’S TEAM, ALL-TIME APPEARANCES & GOALS
for
UNITED WOMEN’S 2023/24
United’s biggest win of the campaign, against Everton in November (League Cup group stage).
16 30 2 7-0 8,312
Goals scored by United across all nine domestic cup ties in 2023/24 – that’s an average of 3.3 per game.
Number of minutes missed by Maya Le Tissier over the course of the season, as the defender started and finished all 33 United fixtures across four competitions.
The Reds’ LSV attendance record was beaten when Arsenal visited in October. (With designated seating starting at LSV next season, this number could easily be beaten in 2024/25!)
Number of players to reach a century of games – Earps and Ladd, joining Toone, Zelem, Turner and Galton on that list.
Goals scored by substitutes in 2023/24 – an impressive figure, following on from 17 sub scorers in 2022/23.
FA WOMEN’S SUPER LEAGUE, TOP ASSISTS
Half of Parris’s 2023/24 goal tally
the Reds came in the WSL (eight of 16)
Only Manchester City’s Lauren Hemp supplied more WSL assists last term than Zelem
WOMEN’S TEAM: RESULTS & LINE-UPS, 2023/24 SEASON
It’s time to salute the United players who picked up the club’s individual prizes come the season’s end...
PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARDS
MEN’S TEAM
Bruno rewarded for standout first term as skipper by
completing hat-trick of Sir Matt Busby awards
Bruno Fernandes led by example in his first season as Erik ten Hag’s permanent captain, with his 28 direct goal involvements across all competitions being a team-leading tally. In the days before hoisting aloft the FA Cup trophy in front of Wembley’s Royal Box, the skipper picked up the third Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award of his United career, as his efforts across 2023/24 term were recognised by our supporters in prestigious fashion.
“It’s really special,” Fernandes said, upon proudly receiving his silverware at Carrington. “I think everyone knows the connection I have with the fans. I feel appreciated every time I step on the pitch, and I have them on my side so I’m really grateful for them voting for me.”
A Player-of-the-Month-winning August saw Bruno set out his stall for the campaign, and he would go on to win the fan-voted club prize again in April, while being nominated for it three further times. He played a true skipper’s role in the early-
season victory over Nottingham Forest as United came from 2-0 down to record a 3-2 success at Old Trafford, setting up Casemiro’s leveller before slamming home the winning penalty, and he made another decisive contribution in our next league win, away to Burnley. His technique-perfect volley at Turf Moor was the only goal under the lights on a memorable September’s evening in east Lancashire, and the first of several efforts that could be counted unlucky to have come in the same term as Alejandro Garnacho’s masterful overhead kick for the ages when it came to picking a Goal of the Season. Long-range strikes against Galatasaray, Liverpool and Sheffield United could have also been realistic contenders in alternative years and were all moments of magic from the man who reinforced his reputation as United’s ‘Portuguese magnifico’. When Fernandes found the net it was often memorable, but our →
Fernandes has taken immense pride in leading the team out throughout the 2023/24 campaign
“ EVERYONE KNOWS THE CONNECTION I HAVE WITH THE FANS. I FEEL APPRECIATED EVERY TIME I STEP ON THE PITCH”
no.8 also made his mark in the moments where it really mattered. Telling of his character and will to put the team on his back when needed, all 10 of his Premier League strikes in 2023/24 were either equalisers or goals to give United the lead. Six of those came during the aforementioned award-winning April, which ensured the Portuguese finished the season strongly, ahead of a summer representing his nation at the Euros in Germany.
Bruno was at his brilliant best in the run-in, despite picking up a rare injury, and completed 2023/24 with another 48 appearances under his belt – a tally only bettered among the Reds’ outfielders by fellow end-of-season award-winners Diogo Dalot and Alejandro Garnacho.
Dalot finished second in the voting behind his compatriot
Fernandes but did have a highly consistent campaign, rewarded with the Players’ Player of the Year prize. Diogo’s ability and versatility to flank both sides of Ten Hag’s defence would have no doubt been appreciated by his team-mates as much as his telling contributions at both ends of the pitch.
A superb last-ditch sliding block to deny West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen an almost-certain goal in February’s clash at Old Trafford was enjoyed maybe in equal measure to our no.20’s strikes away to Sheffield
DALOT’S AVAILABILITY, CONSISTENCY AND WORK RATE DREW ACCLAIM FROM OUTSIDE CARRINGTON
United, Wigan and Brighton – all of which nudged the Reds ahead in eventual victories.
Dalot’s availability, consistency and work rate was recognised by those with whom he shares the dressing room throughout the term, but also drew acclaim from outside of the Carrington walls.
United legend Gary Neville –a man who knows what it takes to be successful in Dalot’s position – has not been short on plaudits for Diogo and, speaking midway through the campaign, said: “United might have the right-back for the future [in Diogo]. There is a lot there: he’s six foot; he’s strong; he’s powerful; he’s good on the ball. He defends his back post really well.”
While Dalot took home the Players’ Player prize, it is perhaps even an understatement to say Garnacho was a deserving winner of our men’s Goal of the Season accolade, for his incredible effort away to Everton in November.
The strike was the highlight of another formative campaign for the budding Argentina international, which also saw him finish inside the top four of the voting for the Sir Matt Busby award, just behind his fellow Academy graduate and good friend Kobbie Mainoo, who ended the polling in third place.
While Dalot, Garnacho and Fernandes were grateful for their individual end-of-season awards, there is little doubting that they would have gained a greater satisfaction from helping the Reds to end the campaign by securing the club’s 13th FA Cup. All three were impressive in May’s memorable derby win under the arch and have each firmly established themselves as key members of Ten Hag’s developing squad, as the page prepares to turn to 2024/25.
Dalot would make it a Portuguese double in the POTY awards, alongside his compatriot Fernandes (below right)
This year also saw the launch the inaugural Fan Award named after passed away earlier this year aged It will be a permanent feature of our
HALL OF FAME
Every previous Player of the Year winner for our men’s side
MANCHESTER UNITED SUPPORTERS’ CLUB PLAYER OF THE YEAR
1971/72 Willie Morgan
1972/73 Willie Morgan
1973/74 Jim Holton
1974/75 Lou Macari
1975/76 Lou Macari
1976/77 Brian Greenhoff
1977/78 Steve Coppell
1978/79 Jimmy Greenhoff
1979/80 Joe Jordan
1980/81 Joe Jordan
1981/82 Ray Wilkins
1982/83 Bryan Robson
1983/84 Ray Wilkins
1984/85 Mark Hughes
SHARP/MANCHESTER UNITED PLAYER OF THE YEAR
1985/86 Paul McGrath
1986/87 Paul McGrath
1987/88 Brian McClair
1988/89 Bryan Robson
1989/90 Gary Pallister
1990/91 Mark Hughes
1991/92 Brian McClair
1992/93 Paul Ince
1993/94 Eric Cantona
SIR MATT BUSBY PLAYER OF THE YEAR
1994/95 Andrei Kanchelskis
1995/96 Eric Cantona
1996/97 David Beckham
1997/98 Ryan Giggs
1998/99 Roy Keane
1999/00 Roy Keane
2000/01 Teddy Sheringham
2001/02 Ruud van Nistelrooy
2002/03 Ruud van Nistelrooy
2003/04 Cristiano Ronaldo
2004/05 Gabriel Heinze
2005/06 Wayne Rooney
2006/07 Cristiano Ronaldo
2007/08 Cristiano Ronaldo
2008/09 Nemanja Vidic
2009/10 Wayne Rooney
2010/11 Javier Hernandez
2011/12 Antonio Valencia
2012/13 Robin van Persie
2013/14 David De Gea
2014/15 David De Gea
2015/16 David De Gea
2016/17 Ander Herrera
2017/18 David De Gea
2018/19 Luke Shaw
2019/20 Bruno Fernandes
2020/21 Bruno Fernandes
2021/22 Cristiano Ronaldo
2022/23 Marcus Rashford
MANCHESTER UNITED PLAYERS’ PLAYER OF THE YEAR
2005/06 Ryan Giggs
2006/07 Cristiano Ronaldo
2007/08 Cristiano Ronaldo
2008/09 Nemanja Vidic
2009/10 Wayne Rooney
2010/11 Nani
2011/12 Antonio Valencia
2012/13 Michael Carrick
2013/14 David De Gea
2014/15 David De Gea
2015/16 Chris Smalling
2016/17 Antonio Valencia
2017/18 David De Gea
2018/19 Luke Shaw
2019/20 Anthony Martial
2020/21 Luke Shaw
2021/22 David De Gea
2022/23 Marcus Rashford
Valencia, 2012
Morgan, 1972
WOMEN’S TEAM
Toone takes a pair of
prizes, while sharing the Players’ Player award with team-mate Le Tissier
Being presented with three individual awards next to the Old Trafford pitch was a fitting way for Ella Toone to mark her unforgettable 2023/24 with United. The attacking midfielder, who developed in the club’s youth ranks and has been a near-permanent fixture in the senior XI since the launch of our professional women’s side in 2018, was the star performer in a season that saw the Reds celebrate a first major trophy. Her efforts across the campaign saw her leave M16 after our final-day game against Chelsea with two Player of the Year awards to her name – one voted for by the fans and the other by her team-mates – to go with the Goal of the Season prize that she had clinched with a
stunning strike in the triumphant FA Cup final a weekend earlier.
Marc Skinner’s side never looked back from the moment
Toone’s long-range rocket broke the deadlock at Wembley in the win over Spurs, and it was a moment of quality that Ella had proved over the course of the term was not a one-off. Extraordinary strikes
PREVIOUS WINNERS:
UNITED WOMEN PLAYER OF THE YEAR
2018/19 Katie Zelem
2019/20 Hayley Ladd
2020/21 Ona Batlle
2021/22 Ella Toone
2022/23 Alessia Russo
UNITED WOMEN PLAYERS’ PLAYER OF THE YEAR
2021/22 Alessia Russo
2022/23 Hannah Blundell
against Brighton, Newcastle and Leicester were also highlights of a campaign in which Ella reclaimed our supporter-decided Player of the Year trophy from departed Red (and good friend) Alessia Russo, having previously won it in 2021/22.
While Toone’s award collection for 2023/24 – which also includes a team-high four Player of the Month prizes – speaks for itself, her season’s story also includes celebrating more than just silverware. Our no.7, who is the team’s all-time top appearance maker and scorer, played her 150th game for the club in January’s home win versus Aston Villa, before reaching the 50-goal landmark in March’s triumph over Everton.
Tyldesley-born Toone was a clear winner of the fans’ Player of the Year, claiming nearly half of all votes and finishing ahead of Mary Earps and Lucia Garcia, but shared the players’ prize with another team-mate deserving of acclaim for her campaign, in Maya Le Tissier.
The centre-back – who was also presented as an award-winner before kick-off against Chelsea –experienced no sophomore slump in her second year and impressed while playing every minute of our 33 games across four competitions. It came after a debut term in which Maya also featured in every fixture following her signing from Brighton, as the England international’s consistent performances made her a favourite among fans and peers alike. News of our no.4 signing a contract extension was therefore well received in April, and it is expected that she will continue to be a mainstay of the spine – alongside Toone – in the Reds’ side for years to come.
Toone gets her hands on all her individual awards for 2023/24, to go alongside her FA Cup winner’s medal
Le Tissier and Toone get to share the Players’ Player trophy
The players rewarded for their standout development at youth level with the Reds
A season of real progress for Ethan Wheatley saw the young forward crowned the latest winner of the Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award.
Wheatley became our 250th Academy graduate to play for the men’s senior side when he was brought on in April’s win against Sheffield United at Old Trafford and, while it saw the club reach a historic landmark, it was a proud personal moment for the 18-year-old on the back of a notable goalscoring campaign in the youth ranks.
The Stockport-born striker displayed strong form for our U18s throughout the team’s successful season, in which Adam Lawrence’s side celebrated a national league and cup double. Ethan netted twice in the young Reds’ Premier League Cup final victory over Man City and was on target again in the triumphant north-versus-south showdown with Chelsea for the league title.
Speaking after making his senior bow, Wheatley, who also represented our U21s in 2023/24, said: “Adam Lawrence, Colin Little, all of the staff, the analysts, they’ve all helped me. I’ve been able to stay on the pitch this season and work on
using my body, little technical bits as well. I’m feeling a lot more confident with the way I’m playing.”
Ethan can also take belief from the fact he takes the baton as the prize’s latest recipient from Kobbie Mainoo, who has enjoyed a storybook ascent over the last 12 months, after joining a list of past winners that includes Marcus Rashford, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.
While Wheatley was presented with his award before the men’s late-season win over Newcastle, Elyh Harrison received the Denzil Haroun Reserve-Team Player of the Year prize. The goalkeeper forced his way into Travis Binnion’s U21s and gained valuable experience at Premier League 2 level, while also playing his part in the U18s’ successes. Elyh made important saves in the final triumphs over Chelsea and City, capping off a
fine campaign in which he showed both his shot-stopping qualities and ability to play with the ball at his feet, becoming only the second keeper to win the reserve accolade after Kevin Pilkington in 1994/95.
On the women’s side, Amelia Oldroyd was named U21 Player of the Year, while the players voted Lucy Newell as their POTY, after she performed excellently for both our U21s and West Brom during a loan spell, as well as regularly training with Marc Skinner’s first team.
At U16 level, no.10 Sienna was named POTY for her consistent displays, with defenders Dixie and Holly voted Young POTY and Players’ POTY respectively. Awards were also given to three players who epitomise the club’s values, with Jen Handy and Holly Deering receiving the prizes at U21 level, and Millie for the U16s.
U21 POTY Oldroyd
Players’ Player winner Newell
Wheatley and Harrison receive their awards at Old Trafford
THE ACADEMY
The full story of a highly positive year across United’s youth teams, with multiple trophies to celebrate...
TRIPLE SUCCESS FOR UNDER-18s
It was an incredible season finale for our teenage Reds, as they completed a clean sweep of silverware
A hugely impressive campaign for United’s Under-18s concluded with the young Reds being crowned U18 Premier League national champions – the third and final piece of silverware won by the team in a matter of weeks.
The 2023/24 season all began for the Academy youngsters with participation in two overseas tournaments: SuperCupNI (formerly the Milk Cup) in Northern Ireland and the Mladen Ramljak Memorial Tournament in Croatia. Then, between their opening two league fixtures, Adam Lawrence’s side competed at the Otten Cup in the Netherlands.
“I think these competitions, tours and tournaments are one of the special things at this club,” said Lawrence, the lead coach who joined United initially as U16s coach two years previously. “They’ve been amazing for the players.”
Those pre-season challenges against high-level opposition such as Hertha Berlin, Liverpool,
Valencia, Dinamo Zagreb and Feyenoord helped United to quickly hit their stride. The U18s won their first 14 games of the regular season on the bounce, a feat never before achieved by this age group.
The Reds netted four in both of their first two games before a defining win at home to Nottingham Forest. Ashton Missin’s first-half sending-off for United, and the visitors’ subsequent penalty, left the Reds trailing by a goal and a player at the break. Despite the numerical disadvantage, they rallied and triumphed in traditional United
fashion, with a 91st-minute winner. It set the tone for the season to come in its resilience and composure, as Victor Musa scored from the penalty spot under pressure. Late drama followed again a week later away at Sunderland, as Finley McAllister pounced on a loose ball to fire home in the 95th minute.
Resilience was demonstrated, and confidence cemented from there on. Newcastle had five put past them before another comeback win, this time against Derby, then six were scored at Leeds and three at Blackburn (a
Musa hat-trick). United rattled along without great drama, seeing off Wolves, Everton and Newcastle before encountering a first real bump in the road. While flying high in the league, United were rocked by a surprise FA Youth Cup defeat at Swindon Town. The young Reds had narrowly navigated past Derby with a 1-0 win in the third-round tie, played at Old Trafford, but were hit twice by an impressive Robins outfit preventing us from adding to a record 11 Youth Cup crowns. →
The Reds are crowned U18 Premier League champions after victory at Stamford Bridge
“We love to see the boys under pressure,” Nick Cox, Director of Academy, said after his side’s Youth Cup exit. “I actually get a bit worried about teams that win every week and teams that find it comfortable. It means we haven’t found them an appropriate challenge point.
“Tonight was a stretch, they found it difficult, they found that hard, and they’ll have done a serious amount of learning.”
After the 2-0 defeat to Swindon, the Academy coaches thus focused not only on the mistakes but what the response would be. And it couldn’t have been better.
United welcomed title rivals Manchester City to Carrington just days later and, in a tightly contested affair, Louis Jackson’s second-half strike, which evoked passionate celebrations, proved pivotal. Elyh Harrison, who would receive the Denzil Haroun Player
ADAM LAWRENCE AFTER OUR PREMIER LEAGUE CUP FINAL WIN V MANCHESTER CITY
“There’s a lot of noise in the changing room. We get to see genuine joy. It’s special. And I thought one of the really nice things was seeing the injured players who’ve contributed throughout the season, even if they couldn’t be on the pitch tonight, celebrating with the others. There’s a togetherness about this group that’s been there from the start of the season. You get groups that have a certain dynamic and the desire to get better every day and push each other.”
of the Year award for his excellent performances across U18s, U19s and U21s football, then kept the visiting Blues at bay with a string of impressive saves.
And so, the winning league run went on, for another two games.
Leeds were unable to avenge their 6-0 home defeat in October, instead suffering a 4-0 loss at Carrington, and Liverpool were then next up to complete a thrilling fortnight of rivalries for the Reds.
United put in one of their finest performances of the season but were continually pegged back in an entertaining 4-3 victory, which proved the ideal warm-up for the visit of Arsenal four days later in the U18 Premier League Cup. In another thriller, this one requiring extra-time, United triumphed 4-2 thanks partly to an Ethan Williams brace. Few games all season better showed the
IN THE NATIONAL FINAL AT CHELSEA, ONCE MORE THE TEAM SHOWED DISCIPLINE, WORK ETHIC AND QUALITY TO TRIUMPH
A familiar sight during the season as Wheatley celebrates after scoring the opener in May’s final at Stamford Bridge
Lawrence (right) celebrates with assistant Colin Little
group’s impressive levels of fitness, work ethic, and game management.
The record-breaking string of league victories eventually ended with back-to-back 2-2 draws at Derby and Nottingham Forest, though the unbeaten run continued after Jim Thwaites’s superb 92nd-minute equaliser at the latter.
Middlesbrough were beaten comfortably at Carrington before a 5-0 thumping of Crystal Palace in the U18 Premier League Cup semi-final preceded the end of the league run. United’s young players were left bitterly disappointed after a 4-1 loss at Manchester City in early March, but they didn’t let it get to them, following up with a 5-2 win against Blackburn – inspired by a four-goal haul from electric winger Bendito Mantato, still only 16.
The benefit of overseas experiences showed itself again as United took the opportunity of a pause in the fixtures to visit the south of France over Easter. They faced Monaco and Nice in highly competitive friendlies and the work done on the fantastic
training pitches of both clubs paid dividends. United returned to England to record a stunning 9-1 away win at Liverpool, in which Ethan Wheatley (Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year) put in a particularly impressive striker’s display, netting himself a hat-trick and showing off his all-round game.
Wins against Stoke and Wolves in the space of four days ensured a large enough gap to main chasers City, giving the Reds both the northern title and plenty of confidence going into an U18 Premier League Cup
against our local city rivals. Wheatley’s
first-half double at a busy Leigh Sports Village was enough to see off the Blues on a special night for Mancunian youth football. Lawrence’s Reds concluded the regular league season with a home victory over Everton before a final opportunity at silverware: the U18 Premier League national final against southern title winners Chelsea, at Stamford Bridge. Once more, the team showed discipline, work ethic and quality to triumph, lifting a third trophy in a month before parading all three at Old Trafford a day later to great applause and adulation. ○
Amass takes aim during a rare defeat, in the FA Youth Cup
A high-five for Jack Fletcher after derby day success
THE LINE-UPS
Match-by-match details from across the season
U18 PREMIER LEAGUE
MIDDLESBROUGH 0
UNITED 4 (Nolan 4 pen, Munro 20, Williams 39, Jackson 43)
The first-year and second-year scholars, all set to represent the Reds’ U18s in the season ahead...
SECOND YEARS
Victor
Sekou Kaba
• Reece Munro
• Zachary Baumann
• Jacob Devaney
• • Jaydan Kamason
• Jack and Tyler Fletcher
FIRST YEARS
Daniel Armer Defender
James Bailey Midfielder
Cameron Byrne-Hughes Goalkeeper
Frederick Heath Goalkeeper
Amir Ibragimov Forward
Godwill Kukonki Defender
Bendito Mantato
Jim Thwaites Midfielder
• Godwill Kukonki
• Cameron Byrne-Hughes
• Amir Ibragimov
• Bendito Mantato
BUILDING ON THEIR EDUCATION
The story of the season for our eldest Academy Reds – some of whom made the step up to senior level in ’23/24
A pre-season fixture in front of 34,248 supporters in San Diego began a campaign full of varied challenges for Travis Binnion’s U21 squad. Some have since represented the first team, others have been regular participants in senior training, and a select few have enjoyed fruitful loan spells, too.
“The Under-21s had a very mixed season on the pitch,” reviewed Binnion, who oversees the entire Professional Development Phase (U17-U21). “It’s a difficult team as, in many ways, it’s not a team in the traditional sense; we see it more as an opportunity for players to get games at this level, all of whom are at different points in their development.
“Some of these players train with the first team, others are returning from loans or preparing to go out on loan. Some are progressing from the U18s, others returning to the U18s, and some are even playing up from the U16s. For all of these players, it’s a necessary and vital stage, and the variety within the games is good
across three competitions: Premier League 2, UEFA Youth League and the EFL Trophy.”
It was the latter tournament that provided an early season highlight. United triumphed on penalties over eventual League Two champions Stockport County in front of 1,400 travelling Reds at Edgeley Park. The youngsters dominated proceedings against their elder counterparts and, while they lost concentration to concede in the 13th minute of added time, the staff were impressed at how they then regained composure
to succeed in a shoot-out. Binnion stated both at the time and after that the inability to see out victory after a good display provided key lessons for the future. His side were beaten 8-1 at Bolton Wanderers by a good senior team and then suffered another last-minute setback, this time leading twice at Salford City only to lose 4-3. “The learning of these games was really valuable,” he says. “But we didn’t see games out that we needed to.”
United were thus knocked out on fine margins, and it was a similar
story in the UEFA Youth League (U19s) where the young Reds weren’t clinical enough to earn proper reward for several positive performances.
A notably youthful side showed a clear determination to play out from the back and dominate possession, a commitment which the best opposition capitalised on in tight games. Several excellent periods did shine through, including a controlled three-goal second half at home ▶
Ethan Williams (facing the camera) celebrates after the Reds take the lead away to Spurs in April – the Reds’ 18th fixture of the newly formatted Premier League 2
to Galatasaray and a blistering two-goal start at Copenhagen. Positives to take, then, but it was certainly a shame not to progress into the knockouts.
In the newly formatted 26-team Premier League 2, United started the majority of games with a line-up younger than our opponents.
That didn’t prevent the side from qualifying for the end-of-season 16-team knockouts, with a 12th-place finish. Highlights included a blistering 10-1 triumph over Stoke City, Sam Mather’s quartet of goals in victory at Old Trafford against Norwich City, a 2-1 derby win over Manchester City at Leigh Sports Village and a highly creditable 2-2 draw at league-leading Tottenham.
This latter achievement was a source of pride not for the result – United teams always aim to win –but due to the context of the game. “Due to first-team involvement for many players, we were a really young side that day,” Binnion explained afterwards.
Indeed, the first team’s higher-than-average injury count has seen PDP players support nearly 600 first-team training sessions, with 25 of the 44 players who appeared in matchday squads coming from the Academy, including both graduates and current U21s. Four made senior debuts: Dan Gore (September), Willy Kambwala (December), Omari Forson (January) and Ethan Wheatley (April). The latter’s bow gave him the honour of becoming our 250th Academy graduate, a landmark celebrated globally.
“What makes it so special is that it’s not been manufactured,” reflected Nick Cox, Director of Academy. “It’s been achieved organically as a consequence of our commitment to youth, as a consequence of that way of life. As for Ethan, he was back at school on Thursday morning! That’s how it works at Manchester United.” Indeed, education is a core part of the Academy programme
and achievements in this area are celebrated as much as those on the pitch. Staff were proud to see 80 per cent of second-year scholars achieve their target grade or above, 10 players receive BTEC Extended Diplomas, another 10 complete the Sporting Excellence Professional apprenticeship, and three finish their UEFA ‘C’ Coaching certificate.
In addition, ‘A United Education’ –the Academy’s informal programme away from formal schooling – saw the boys learn how to cook steak, pasta, eggs, fish and other dishes –preparing them for time away from home – and attend workshops on vital life skills such as understanding social media use, taxes, safe driving, mental health, developing resilience and career planning.
This complements their on-pitch development, which concluded for the U21s with an end-of-season knockout game against Arsenal at Borehamwood. The Gunners put in an impressive display to finish as 6-2 winners.
EDUCATION IS A CORE PART OF THE ACADEMY PROGRAMME AND ACHIEVEMENTS IN THIS AREA ARE CELEBRATED AS MUCH AS THOSE ON THE PITCH
PREMIER LEAGUE 2 TABLE
Several players in that United side had recently returned from loan moves, with 13 players exiting temporarily to gain experience. Will Fish’s 45 appearances for Hibernian in Scotland, Radek Vitek’s excellent displays for Accrington Stanley in League Two and Sam Mather and Joe Hugill’s first senior goals for Rochdale and Burton Albion respectively were the stand-out loanee achievements. But all those who’ve left the club temporarily benefited significantly, including a dozen who spent time at Football League and National League clubs across the country as part of the Pro Experience Programme. The innovative scheme, launched in 2021, sees players spend a week or two in a senior football environment, preparing them for future full loans or first-team experience. Wheatley, for example, spent time at Forest Green Rovers in the autumn, helping prepare him for a senior bow in April. Thanks to the U18s’ success, United will once again compete in the UEFA Youth League in 2024/25 – as well as
Mather’s four goals at Old Trafford was another season highlight
Academy coach Dave Hughes and Binnion watch on during the April victory at Southampton
The Reds go on the attack against Stockport County in the EFL Trophy –a brilliant away day at Edgeley Park
THE LINE-UPS
Match-by-match details from across the season
PREMIER LEAGUE 2
CRYSTAL PALACE 3 (Rak-Sakyi 45+3, Trialist 76, Raymond 90+7)
The 2023/24 season saw United reach a new milestone of players to have risen from youth ranks to first team. Here’s the decade-by-decade roster...
Mark Jones
1930s
Tom Manley
Jackie Wassall
Johnny Carey
Stan Pearson (↑)
Jimmy Hanlon
1940s
Joe Walton
Charlie Mitten
John Aston Snr
Johnny Morris
James Pegg
Johnny Anderson
Sammy Lynn
Robert Brown
Brian Birch
1950s
Frank Clempson
Jeff Whitefoot
Tom McNulty
Don Gibson
Billy Redman
Cliff Birkett
Jackie Blanchflower
Johnny Scott
Eddie Lewis
David Pegg
John Doherty
Bill Foulkes
Duncan Edwards
Dennis Viollet
Les Olive
Noel McFarlane
Paddy Kennedy
Albert Scanlon
Freddie Goodwin
Geoff Bent (↑)
Billy Whelan
Walter Whitehurst
Wilf McGuinness
Eddie Colman
Ronnie Cope
Bobby Charlton
David Gaskell
Tony Hawksworth
Gordon Clayton
Alex Dawson
Peter Jones
Kenny Morgans
Mark Pearson
Shay Brennan
Bobby Harrop
Joe Carolan
Reg Hunter
Johnny Giles
1960s
Nobby Lawton
Jimmy Nicholson
Frank Haydock
Ian Moir
Nobby Stiles
Harold Bratt
Ronnie Briggs
Sammy McMillan
Phil Chisnall
Dennis Walker
David Sadler
George Best (↑)
Willie Anderson
Wilf Tranter
Albert Kinsey
John Fitzpatrick
John Aston Jnr
Bobby Noble
Jimmy Ryan
Brian Kidd
Francis Burns
Frank Kopel
Alan Gowling
Jimmy Rimmer
Carlo Sartori
Steve James
Don Givens
Paul Edwards
1970s
Tony Young
Willie Watson
Ian Donald
Tommy O’Neil
Sammy McIlroy (↑)
John Connaughton
Peter Fletcher
Arnie Sidebottom
Brian Greenhoff
Clive Griffiths
Paul Bielby
Arthur Albiston
David McCreery
Jimmy Nicholl
Tony Grimshaw
Jimmy Kelly
Peter Coyne
Steve Paterson
Jonathan Clark
Martyn Rogers
Andy Ritchie
1980s
Mike Duxbury
Scott McGarvey
Norman Whiteside (↑)
Alan Davies
Mark Hughes
Mark Dempsey
Graeme Hogg
Clayton Blackmore
Billy Garton
Stephen Pears
Nicky Wood
Gary Walsh
Tony Gill
Deiniol Graham
Lee Martin
Russell Beardsmore
Mark Robins
David Wilson
Derek Brazil
Mark Wilson
1990s
Mark Bosnich
Darren Ferguson
Ryan Giggs
Paul Wratten
Ian Wilkinson
Gary Neville
David Beckham
Nicky Butt
Keith Gillespie
Ben Thornley
Colin McKee
Paul Scholes
John O’Kane
Simon Davies
Chris Casper
Kevin Pilkington
Phil Neville
Terry Cooke
Michael Appleton
Michael Clegg
John Curtis
Phil Mulryne
Ronnie Wallwork
Michael Twiss
Wes Brown (↑)
Danny Higginbotham
Alex Notman
Nick Culkin
John O’Shea
Luke Chadwick
Richie Wellens
David Healy
2000s
Paul Rachubka
Michael Stewart
Danny Webber
Daniel Nardiello
Jimmy Davis
Lee Roche
Danny Pugh
Kieran Richardson
Mads Timm
Darren Fletcher (↑)
Mark Lynch
Chris Eagles
Eddie Johnson
Phil Bardsley
Paul Tierney
Jonathan Spector
Gerard Pique
Sylvan Ebanks-Blake
Giuseppe Rossi
David Jones
Darron Gibson
Lee Martin
Ritchie Jones
Adam Eckersley
Michael Barnes
Kieran Lee
David Gray
Ryan Shawcross
Phil Marsh
Fraizer Campbell
Jonny Evans (↑)
Danny Simpson
Ben Amos
Danny Welbeck
James Chester
Richard Eckersley
Federico Macheda
Joshua King
2010s
Ravel Morrison
Tom Cleverley
Paul Pogba
Zeki Fryers
Larnell Cole
Michael Keane
Will Keane
Ryan Tunnicliffe
Scott Wootton
Robbie Brady
Adnan Januzaj
James Wilson
Tom Lawrence
Tyler Blackett
Jesse Lingard
Saidy Janko
Andreas Pereira
Reece James
Paddy McNair
Tom Thorpe
Cameron
Borthwick-Jackson
Donald Love
Joe Riley
Marcus Rashford (↑)
Tim Fosu-Mensah
James Weir
Axel Tuanzebe
Joel Pereira
Scott McTominay
Angel Gomes
Josh Harrop
Demi Mitchell
Tahith Chong
James Garner
Mason Greenwood
Brandon Williams
Di’Shon Bernard
Ethan Laird
Dylan Levitt
D’Mani Mellor
Largie Ramazani
Ethan Galbraith
2020s
Teden Mengi
Dean Henderson
Shola Shoretire
Anthony Elanga
Hannibal
Will Fish
Tom Heaton
Zidane Iqbal
Charlie Savage
Alejandro
Garnacho (↑)
Charlie McNeill
Kobbie Mainoo
Dan Gore
Willy Kambwala
Omari Forson
Ethan Wheatley
Many of our ‘Class of ‘92’ would go on to become European champions in 1999
POINTS MEAN PRIZES FOR UNITED GIRLS
Under-21s receive rich reward to conclude campaign of impressive progress, with success also coming for younger MUW age groups...
The young Reds get their hands on the trophy on 1 May in Hemel Hempstead, following the win against southern champions Arsenal
As the first team secured silverware with an emphatic Wembley win in the Women’s FA Cup final, inspired by Academy graduate Ella Toone’s long-range opener, it represented another season of fantastic youth development at United.
Our Under-21s became English national champions, securing their crown with a 3-1 victory over Arsenal in the national play-off final in May. Goals from Amelia Oldroyd, Tamira Livingston and Megan Sofield in Hemel Hempstead capped off a strong season for the group, who had sealed the Academy Northern Division title a week before in the most incredible of games. Requiring a draw to finish top, United trailed Leicester City by three goals, only to show – in the words of head coach Melissa Brown, who took charge in February – “remarkable determination, togetherness and character to come away with the result.” Second-half strikes from
Aoife Farrell, Layla Proctor and Sofield brought the game level, giving United the required point to claim top spot. As per league rules, a penalty shoot-out followed to determine a bonus point, and with two saves from keeper Jen Handy, Brown’s Reds took that home as well.
“I’m so proud of this talented group of special players and people,” Brown reflected after.
“The whole squad and staff should be incredibly proud of what’s been achieved this season.”
In fact, the entire Academy set-up should be proud. Ten of the girls involved in the national play-off
final have progressed right through the age groups, and success has continued at lower age groups, too.
The U16s had their own final victory over Arsenal, with goals from Scarlett (two) and Jessica (one) leading United to success at Northampton’s Sixfields Stadium in April. Having lost to the Gunners in the previous season, this was a particularly satisfying triumph.
Both United Women Academy teams capped off their seasons by parading their trophies at Old Trafford as the FA Cup-winning first team signed off their WSL campaign.
Academy graduates contributed to the senior team’s success, in different ways. Five young players – Olivia Francis, Holly Deering, Phoebe Chadwick, Lucy Newell and Mayzee Davies – travelled with Marc Skinner’s squad for a mid-season training camp in Malta and participated regularly in training during the rest of the campaign, while graduates Katie Zelem, Millie Turner and Ella Toone started in the FA Cup final itself as the Reds overcame Tottenham.
Away from United, a number of Reds within the Professional Game Academy (which covers the older youth teams, beginning at U15) were recognised at international level for England and Wales.
Younger players within the Girls’ Academy – in both the Foundation (U10-U11) and Youth Development (U12-U14) phases – were also able to have their photo taken with the Women’s FA Cup trophy at their end-of-season Old Trafford awards night – an experience that can only help inspire them to reach such heights in the years ahead.
“ THE WHOLE SQUAD AND STAFF SHOULD BE BE INCREDIBLY PROUD OF WHAT’S BEEN ACHIEVED”
Proctor showed real leadership for the U21s throughout the season
Brown and her backroom team enjoyed a glorious end to 2023/24
The U16s also beat the Gunners, as they won the WPGA Cup
ALL-TIME RECORDS
From our Newton Heath days in the late 19th century, to the formation of Manchester United Women in 2018, here is the complete list of team honours and player records...
MEN’S TEAM HONOURS BOARD
Every trophy lifted, from 1908 to 2024...
Celebrating a first Europa League triumph, in 2017
FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP WINNERS 2008 United 1 LDU Quito 0
INTERCONTINENTAL CUP WINNERS 1999 United 1 Palmeiras 0
EUROPEAN CUP/UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE WINNERS
1968 United 4 Benfica 1 (aet) 1999 United 2 Bayern Munich 1 2008 United 1 Chelsea 1 (wononpens)
EUROPEAN CUP WINNERS’ CUP WINNERS 1991 United 2 Barcelona 1
UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE WINNERS 2017 United 2 Ajax 0
FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION ONE WINNERS 1908, 1911, 1952, 1956, 1957, 1965, 1967
PREMIER LEAGUE WINNERS 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2013
FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION TWO WINNERS 1936, 1975
(continued >)
Above: Illustrations and photographs, as seen in TheIllustratedSportingandDramaticNews, tell the story of United’s first FA Cup final victory, v Bristol City at Crystal Palace on 24 April 1909
Below: David Herd (9) celebrates scoring our second goal in the 1963 FA Cup final win against Leicester alongside Denis Law (10) and Bobby Charlton (11) . For Sir Bobby, who we sadly lost in October 2023, it would be the second of five major trophies won with the Reds
SIR BOBBY AND THE REDS WIN THE 1963 FA CUP
(shared)
(shared)
FA YOUTH CUP HONOURS BOARD
(wononpens)
(wononpens)
(wononpens)
George Best faces Swindon in the
Youth Cup final – by which
Alejandro Garnacho lifts the Youth Cup in 2022
Lisandro Martinez with our most recent major honour
MOST APPEARANCES
The top 100 list of games played for Manchester United’s men’s team...
NAME YEARS APPS
1. Ryan Giggs 1991-2014 963
2. Sir Bobby Charlton 1956-73 758
3. Paul Scholes 1994-2011, 2012-13 718
4. Bill Foulkes 1952-69 688
5. Gary Neville 1992-2011 602
6. Wayne Rooney 2004-17 559
7. David De Gea 2011-23 545
8. Alex Stepney 1966-78 539
9. Tony Dunne 1960-73 535
10. Denis Irwin 1990-2002 529
11. Joe Spence 1919-33 510
12. Arthur Albiston 1974-88 485
13. Roy Keane 1993-2005 480
14. Brian McClair 1987-98 471
15. George Best 1963-74 470
16. Mark Hughes 1983-86, 1988-95 467
17. Michael Carrick 2006-18 464
18. Bryan Robson 1981-94 461
19. Martin Buchan 1972-82 456
20. Rio Ferdinand 2002-14 455
21. Jack Silcock 1919-34 449
22. Gary Pallister 1989-98 437
23. Jack Rowley 1937-55 424
24. Sammy McIlroy 1971-82 419
25. Steve Bruce 1987-96 414
26. Denis Law 1962-73 404
27. Marcus Rashford 2016- 402
28. Lou Macari 1973-84 401
29. Peter Schmeichel 1991-99 398
30. Paddy Crerand 1963-71 397
31. Steve Coppell 1975-83 396
32. Nobby Stiles 1960-71 395
33. David Beckham 1992-2003 394
34. John O’Shea 1999-2011 393
Clockwise from top-left: Giggs leads the way for most United appearances, across a 23-year career with the first team; Charlton, Stepney, Best, Law and Stiles walk out to face Chelsea in 1970 – all five feature in the top end of our list below; Meredith holds the record for our oldest-ever first-team player, at the age of 46 years and 281 days; Macari clocked up more than 400 appearances during a 11-year stay at Old Trafford, with Marcus Rashford overtaking the Scot in the 2024 FA Cup final.
43. Mikael Silvestre 1999-2008 361 44. Shay Brennan 1958-70 359 45. Cristiano Ronaldo ’03-09, ’21-22 346 46. Johnny Carey 1937-53 344 47. Stan Pearson 1937-53 343 48. Darren Fletcher 2003-15 342 49. Antonio Valencia 2009-19 339
50= Billy Meredith 1907-21 335
50= David Sadler 1963-73 335
52. Charlie Moore 1919-30 328
53. Alfred Steward 1920-32 326
54. Chris Smalling 2010-19 323
55. Lal Hilditch 1919-32 322
56. George Wall 1906-15 319
57. Anthony Martial 2015-24 317
58. Fred Erentz 1892-1902 310
59. Alex Bell 1903-13 309
60. Charlie Roberts 1904-13 302
61. Ray Bennion 1921-32 301
62. Nemanja Vidic 2006-14 300
63. Willie Morgan 1968-75 296
64. Dennis Viollet 1953-61 293
65. Kevin Moran 1979-88 289
66. Frank Stapleton 1981-87 288
67. Juan Mata 2014-22 285
68. John Aston Snr 1946-54 284
Above: Brown, Solskjaer and Evra made a combined total of over 1,100 appearances
Left: Vidic finished his United career bang on 300 games
Above: Evans is a belated addition to the top 100 following his return to the club in July 2023
69. Paul Ince 1989-95 281
70. Roger Byrne 1951-58 280
71. Johnny Berry 1951-57 276
72= Henry Cockburn 1946-54 275
72= Andy Cole 1995-2001 275
72= Luke Shaw 2014- 275
75. Norman Whiteside 1982-89 274
76. Brian Greenhoff 1973-79 271
77. George Stacey 1907-15 270
78= Harry Moger 1903-12 266
78= Brian Kidd 1967-74 266
78= Edwin van der Sar 2005-11 266
81. David Herd 1961-68 265
82. Lee Sharpe 1988-96 263
83. Ashley Young 2011-20 261
84. Victor Lindelof 2017- 259
85. Walter Cartwright 1895-1904 257
86. Dick Duckworth 1903-13 254
87. Scott McTominay 2017- 252
88. Stewart Houston 1974-80 250
89. Jimmy Nicholl 1975-81 248
90= Sandy Turnbull 1907-15 247
90= Harry Gregg 1957-66 247
92. Clayton Blackmore 1984-93 245
93= Paul Pogba 2011-12, 2016-22 233
93= Bruno Fernandes 2020- 233
95. Jesse Lingard 2014-22 232
96. Nani 2007-14 230
97= Gordon McQueen 1978-85 229
97= Phil Jones 2011-23 229
99. Jonny Evans 2007-15, 2023- 228
100. Ruud van Nistelrooy 2001-06 219
MOST GOALS SCORED
Who has found the net on the most occasions for our men’s team?
NAME YEARS GOALS
1. Wayne Rooney 2004-17 253
2. Sir Bobby Charlton 1956-73 249
3. Denis Law 1962-73 237
4. Jack Rowley 1937-55 211
5= Dennis Viollet 1953-61 179
5= George Best 1963-74 179
7= Joe Spence 1919-33 168
7= Ryan Giggs 1991-2014 168
9. Mark Hughes 1983-86, ’88-95 163
10. Paul Scholes 1994-11, ’12-13 155
11. Ruud van Nistelrooy 2001-06 150
12. Stan Pearson 1937-53 148
13= David Herd 1961-68 145
13= Cristiano Ronaldo’03-09, ’21-22 145
15= Tommy Taylor 1953-58 131
15= Marcus Rashford 2016- 131
17. Brian McClair 1987-98 127
18. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 1996-’07 126
19. Andy Cole 1995-2001 121
20. Sandy Turnbull 1907-15 101
21= Joe Cassidy 1893, 1895-1900 100
21= George Wall 1906-15 100
23. Bryan Robson 1981-94 99
24. Lou Macari 1973-84 97
25. Anthony Martial 2015-24 90
26. David Beckham 1992-2003 85
27. Eric Cantona 1992-97 82
28. Enoch West 1910-15 80
29. Bruno Fernandes 2020- 79
30. Frank Stapleton 1981-87 78
31. Sammy McIlroy 1971-82 71
32= Brian Kidd 1967-74 70
32= Steve Coppell 1975-83 70
34= Tommy Reid 1929-33 67
34= Norman Whiteside 1982-89 67
36= Bob Donaldson 1892-97 66
36= Stuart Pearson 1974-79 66
36= Dwight Yorke 1998-2002 66
39. Charlie Mitten 1946-50 61
40. Javier Hernandez 2010-15 59
41= Jack Peddie 1902-07 58
41= Robin van Persie 2012-15 58
43. Tommy Bamford 1934-38 57
44= Harold Halse 1908-12 56
Nani 2007-14
George Anderson 1911-15
Clockwise from top-left: Tommy Taylor and Ruud van Nistelrooy (below Taylor) have the best goals-per-game ratio in the top 100; McTominay is a new addition to the select group, while Rashford and Fernandes have risen up the rankings over the past year
68= Paul Pogba 2011-12, 2016-22 39
70. Gordon Strachan 1984-89 38
71= Dick Smith 1894-98, 1900 37
71= John Downie 1949-53 37
73= Billy Meredith 1907-21 36
73= Jimmy Greenhoff 1976-80 36
73= Lee Sharpe 1988-96 36
73= Andrei Kanchelskis 1991-95 36
77= Henry Boyd 1897-99 35
77= Alfred Schofield 1900-06 35
77= Johnny Morris 1946-49 35
86= Willie Bryant 1896-1900 33
86= Tommy Arkesden 1903-06 33
86= Denis Irwin 1990-2002 33
89. Gerry Daly 1973-77 32 90. Colin Webster 1953-58 31
91= Billy Griffiths 1899-1905 30 91= John Aston Snr 1946-54 30
77= Albert Scanlon 1954-60 35 77= John Connelly 1964-66 35
Jackie Blanchflower 1951-57
David Sadler 1963-73
100= John Aston Jnr 1965-72 27
BIGGEST VICTORIES
Victory over Anderlecht in our first European Cup home fixture remains United’s all-time record win
All smiles as Barnsley are swept aside with seven goals in 1997, with Cole and Giggs both on the scoresheet at Old Trafford
Five of Rowley’s 211 United goals came in a single fixture
Five of the Best from Georgie, against the Cobblers
against Blackburn, Berba?
OTHER RECORDS
Our hat-trick heroes, United’s penalty kings, and the clean-sheet loving goalkeepers...
HAT-TRICKS, MEN’S TEAM
1. Denis Law 1962-73 18 (three goals x14, four goals x4)
2. Jack Rowley 1937-55 12 (three goals x8, four goals x3, five goals x1)
3. Dennis Viollet 1953-61 9 (three goals x8, four goals x1)
4. Wayne Rooney 2004-17 8 (three goals x7, four goals x1)
5. Sir Bobby Charlton 1956-73 7 (three goals x7)
6= Joe Cassidy 1893, 1895-1900 6 (three goals x6)
6= Tommy Reid 1929-33 6 (three goals x6)
6= Stan Pearson 1937-53 6 (three goals x6)
6= David Herd 1961-68 6 (three goals x5, four goals x1)
6= Ruud van Nistelrooy 2001-06 6 (three goals x5, four goals x1)
PENALTIES
SCORED, MEN’S TEAM
No other Red comes close to Law when it comes to trebles
Charlton and Viollet plundered a combined 16 hat-tricks between them between 1954-66
The lethal Pearson registered a hat-trick on six occasions
Bruno bags his final 2023/24 penalty, away at Bournemouth
De Gea stands 10 clear in the clean-sheet standings
WOMEN’S TEAM HONOURS BOARD & RECORDS
WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS 2019
APPEARANCES, WOMEN’S TEAM
1. Ella Toone 2018- 164
2. Katie Zelem 2018-24 161
3. Millie Turner 2018- 144
4. Leah Galton 2018- 135
5. Mary Earps 2019-24 125
6. Hayley Ladd 2019- 104
7. Hannah Blundell 2021- 91
8. Kirsty Hanson 2018-23 90
9. Ona Batlle 2020-23 77
10. Amy Turner 2018-21 67
Toone is honoured after reaching the 150-game mark in January 2024
Top: The 2024 Women’s FA Cup winners huddle up ahead of a momentous 90 minutes
Above: Trophy no.1 came in 2019, when the Reds won the Championship to reach the WSL
Right: The 2023/24 season saw Ladd (right) join Galton in our ‘100 club’ for appearances
The club’s associated charity uses football to engage and inspire young people to build a better life for themselves, as well as uniting the communities in which they live....
MANCHESTER UNITED FOUNDATION
ANOTHER PROUD YEAR
The Foundation celebrated its 17th birthday in 2023/24 – a campaign it can look back on with immense satisfaction, as we discover...
Manchester United Foundation was founded in 2007 as a lasting tribute to the Busby Babes, who, of course, famously demonstrated what can be achieved when young people are given an opportunity. It’s an ethos which remains to this day, and is equally true off the pitch as it is on it, courtesy of the Foundation’s life-changing work across Greater Manchester.
Through the delivery of 112 projects, centred around community outreach and education, the Foundation strives to nurture and develop the potential of young people aged 5-25, as well as offering incredible enrichment opportunities to its participants.
Working across 77 partner schools and 23 free community football sites, spanning areas of the highest social deprivation across
Greater Manchester and beyond, the Foundation delivers long-term and sustainable impact on its young people; helping them to become healthier, happier, more socially connected and employable.
“Our staff are incredibly passionate about supporting young people and enhancing their lives in any way we can,” says John Shiels MBE, the Foundation’s chief executive. “It’s a source of great pride for us all, knowing the impact that we can make. But against a grave landscape of a cost-of-living crisis and rising poverty, we know there is always more work to be done.”
During 2023/24, the Foundation delivered over 25,000 sessions, encompassing more than 36,700 delivery hours and, incredibly, positively engaging nearly 39,000 young people. But against the backdrop of a cost-of-living
crisis and with 250,000 children living in poverty in our region, the Foundation is always seeking to do more for its young people.
Responding to the needs of participants – the Foundation’s Youth Voice panel had expressed concerns about staying warm during winter – United’s associated charity invested £100,000 in distributing over 22,000 warm winter clothing items.
It was an initiative complemented wonderfully by the generosity of matchgoing United fans, for the visit of Brentford to Old Trafford in October. The Foundation called on fans to donate coats that day, and they responded emphatically, with 2,000 donated, which were redistributed to local children and families in need. An identified charity in Ukraine also benefited from the donations.
What that level of support means was neatly summed up at the time by Andrew Williams, one of the Foundation’s primary school delivery officers. “We have young people who come to school with just their uniform, so having the opportunity to give things out to our lovely families, they’ll be so delighted,” he said. “And knowing it’s come from the Foundation makes it more special.”
John Shiels added: “The Manchester United badge is an incredible engagement tool for us in our delivery – we understand the prestige it carries, and how it can inspire young people. None of what we do would be possible without fans’ support, so it’s our duty to continue serving our young people, to set out to make a difference, and give the fan base pride as the beating heart of the community.”
“None of what we do would be possible without fans’ support,” says Foundation chief executive Shiels
Kit recycling is just one way Foundation volunteers help the environment
Andre Onana joins one of the Foundation’s popular Street Reds sessions
Surveyed Foundation participants in 2023/24 displayed 70 per cent improved levels of happiness, life satisfaction, social engagement and a sense of belonging, as a result of the charity’s work
United 2023/24
ELECTED DURING THE SUMMER BREAK, YOUNG PEOPLE FROM THE PARTNER-SCHOOL NETWORK NEED TO STAY ON THEIR TOES TO AID THE REDS ON THE PITCH!
AT THE HEART OF MATCHDAY
The exciting ways in which many Foundation participants took centre stage last season...
A United matchday is like no other – 73,000 fans packed inside one of world football’s most iconic venues is a sight to behold, whatever the occasion.
It’s a feeling that resonates even more strongly knowing the sense of community that runs deep throughout our fan base, no matter whether they’re supporting the team from home or the stands. Of course, this special sentiment is
one made possible by thousands of unsung heroes. The feeling of utmost pride from a Foundation perspective, though, emanates from the role that its participants often play when the world’s spotlight arrows its gaze over Old Trafford. It truly is the stuff of dreams for a young person to get so close to the action of a capacity crowd in M16. And without getting on to the hallowed turf itself, there’s no
closer view of the pitch than the one enjoyed by the Foundation’s partner high school pupils, when playing the role of ball assistants on matchday.
Elected during the summer break, young people from the partner-school network are chosen by staff to represent the Foundation with this important role for each home matchday, needing to stay on their toes to aid the efforts of the Reds on the pitch.
It’s a pressured role, perhaps even more so given how much United means to these young people – take ESSA Academy student Gideon’s reaction (pictured) to a Scott McTominay goal against Liverpool in March’s memorable FA Cup win as evidence aplenty!
Gideon said: “I wanted to become a ball assistant to watch matches live and get the job done correctly. One of my best memories being a ball assistant was when Rasmus Hojlund scored his first league goal, against Aston Villa. I’ve developed my confidence, team-work and ability to take on board instructions.”
Forty-one young people from across partner high school and partner SEND schools were involved in Old Trafford matchdays as ball assistants in 2023/24, completing the job admirably. And there were more than 100 further experiences made possible by the Foundation – including mascot experiences, Champions League flagbearers and chances to take penalties on the pitch at Old Trafford – in a season filled with memorable moments for participants.
Many more youngsters also benefit from ticket opportunities at Old Trafford. The Foundation provided more than 2,000 tickets in 2023/24 – rewarding participants and supporters who have gone through difficult times of late.
It’s been another season to remember in this sense, with young people involved with the Foundation cherishing these special memories for years to come.
FAN IMPACT
There’s no doubt that the Foundation is changing lives across our region; an effort that everyone concerned can be proud of – particularly our fans, whose contribution to this incredible work is undeniable.
Throughout last season, fan support was a constant in the Foundation’s work – with generous donations made, and heartening roles played, by supporters taking part in fundraising initiatives.
The Foundation has been the beneficiary of fans donating their tickets at every home fixture –raising more than £567,000 from 26 men’s team home matches. This will make an immeasurable difference to the young people the Foundation serves, with the equivalent amount enough to fund 17 Street Reds sites – where the Foundation delivers free community football sessions for young people across Greater Manchester – for a year.
The Foundation was also pleased to be present at fan ‘Warm Up’ events, which invite fans from across the world to Old Trafford on the weekend of a home fixture. The Foundation offers signed memorabilia and unique prizes through raffles
and auctions at these events, which across six events raised £25,000 for its work with young people. And, with the sun now set on 2023/24, it’s apt to recall how more than 100 fans selflessly watched the night sky settle over Old Trafford in November, again in the name of the Foundation.
Forming part of a wider effort to support vulnerable young people, the Old Trafford Sleep Out called on fans to spend the night sleeping rough; showing solidarity with rough sleepers and raising vital funds for both the Foundation and youth homelessness charity, Centrepoint. Once more, fan efforts played a major part in another big success – with £47,000 raised to support both organisations’ vital ongoing work with young people in the city.
There were plenty more selfless efforts by fans to support the Foundation, and as ever, there’s much more in store for our associated charity in what’s sure to be another action-packed season come 2024/25.
As a ball assistant, many Foundation youngsters got very close to the action
Stepping out on to the pitch in the famous kit on matchday – what an experience!
The Warm Up events, as well as the Old Trafford Sleep Out (above) were among the many highlights of the campaign
MEMBERS AND MUSC
It’s time to salute the United Members, as well as the 300-plus supporters’ clubs, many of whom had additional reasons to celebrate throughout 2023/24. If you’re not yet signed up yourself, find out more over the page...
JOIN THE JOURNEY!
Be part of an exciting new era for the mighty Reds as a United Member
Becoming a United Member is more rewarding than ever, with levels of membership for the forthcoming season to suit every Red.
By signing up for the 2024/25 campaign you can unlock ticket access to United home matches, exclusive discounts and digital content, not to mention more
surprises and delights throughout the season (more of that over the page!). If you’re not already signed up, here are the four main levels of membership for 2024/25... →
Much like these fans, we can’t wait for the new season to start, and as a United Member you’ll unlock ticket access to join them at home games
PREMIUM MEMBERSHIP
£75
For the ultimate Red Devil! Get exclusive home match ticket access, discounted United Women match tickets, a premium membership pack, the biggest club discounts (with up to 50 per cent) off, exclusive competitions, all-access to MUTV for the 2024/25 season, on top of all the benefits from full membership (see right).
FULL MEMBERSHIP
£40
For the dedicated fan who wants the personalised full membership pack, as well as all the ‘Lite’ benefits (right).
LITE MEMBERSHIP
£35
For the fan who wants access to match tickets as well as those must-have club discounts.
JUNIOR MEMBERSHIP
£20
For the under-16 fan who wants their own exclusive membership pack and benefits experience.
FORWARDING MEMBERSHIP
£20
For the fan who simply wants to receive forwarded United tickets throughout the 2024/25 season.
PRIZED MEMBERS
How a number of lucky Reds were rewarded in different ways over the course of last season...
Signed shirts, match tickets, the chance to meet a United great –such prizes were all given out last season to United Members (in Premium and Junior categories) who entered the monthly competitions the club put on exclusively for such Reds.
The prize for September 2023 was a kit bundle – one each of our home, away and third shirts – as well as a pair of tickets for the Crystal Palace match (as showcased on these pages by young Nathan, who won the prize in the Junior Member category, and took his grandad to
Old Trafford). The prize for October was tickets for the Manchester derby, which included the chance to meet legendary ex-Red Gary Pallister (Mark Whetton won this prize in the Premium Member bracket, and took his son Jack with him for a very special experience at the Theatre of Dreams, while Junior Member winner Aidan was also a winner that month).
In November, draw winner Jon Hinchliffe bagged a kit signed by the full squad; in December Jevon Stammers won a private tour of Old Trafford, while January’s prize included tickets for the game against Tottenham and attendance at the ‘Warm-Up’ event the night before the match (complete with legend Q&A). The lucky Reds to enjoy these experiences were Michael Seabourne (Premium) and Daisy Covell (Junior).
THERE’S NO CATCH OR OTHER OBLIGATION, WITH COMPETITIONS SIMPLY BEING AN EXTRA BENEFIT TO REWARD SUPPORTERS
In March, Mike Ford won a Mary Earps signed shirt, before lucky Members selected in April’s draw won the opportunity to play at Old Trafford at the fan pitch day. The final month of the season saw a renewal competition for Members who acted quickly to sign up for 2024/25. The prizes? Three signed shirts, won by Maan Al Arrayed (signed Rashford shirt), Tessa Gallon (signed Casemiro shirt) and Mika Pohjola (signed Onana shirt).
If you’re not yet signed up for 2024/25, click here
May also saw United Members given access to the #ILOVEUNITED VIP fan experience event, held in Mexico City. It saw over 150 supporters attend the up-close and personal event with United legends Andy Cole and Wes Brown, with food and beverage provided, as well as a DJ set at Toledo Rooftop bar, in the heart of the Mexican capital.
The surprises didn’t stop there, either, with Treble winner Cole knocking on the doors of some local Members with a brilliant gift: our stylish new home kit!
In order to be eligible for future competitions throughout 2024/25, you’ll need to be a United Member (Premium or Junior) but there’s no catch or other obligation, with it simply being an extra benefit to reward supporters. So if you are a Member, keep an eye out for email communications from the club.
Nathan and his grandad enjoy a September day out
This is what a kit bundle looks like!
Winners Jevon and Jared Stammers enjoy their private Old Trafford tour
Club legend Pallister gets back on the hallowed turf alongside October’s lucky winners
The new home shirt, delivered to your door (and signed) by a club legend. Very nice!
MUSC’S MILESTONE
Last season saw us surpass 300 supporters’ clubs – which one is closest to where you live?
NORTHERN IRELAND
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND
1
WALES
SCOTLAND
ENGLAND
ISLANDS
NON-GEOGRAPHIC SUPPORTERS’ CLUBS
MUSC L ❤ VES THE CUP!
Whether at Wembley itself, or at viewing parties far closer to home (such as in Kyiv, pictured), our supporters’ clubs had so many reasons to cheer on 25 May as Erik ten Hag’s Reds won the FA Cup after beating Manchester City. Here’s a taster of the worldwide celebrations...
• Qatar Reds are so up for the Cup!
• The Gibraltar branch watch the action unfold
• Cup celebration time for our Reds in Iraq
• Hong Kong Reds – as packed as a stand at Wembley!
• Kolkata Reds savour a day to remember
• Omagh Reds drink in the derby victory
• Muckamore, Ireland, makes some noise as we find the target!
• The early start in San Francisco was most definitely worth the effort...
• Pontypridd Reds squeeze in for a Wembley selfie
• Members of our Mumbai branch in the stands
• Eyes glued forward in Singapore
• Washington DC show their love for MUFC on FA Cup final day
• ...and definitely not forgetting MUWSC, who all had an unforgettable day at Wembley for the Women’s FA Cup final –before getting their own hands on the trophy back at Old Trafford!
• Packed to the rafters in Sydney, Australia
• The Youth Supporters’ Club huddle up behind their flag at the national stadium
BRANCHING OUT
Here are a few more of our supporters’ clubs, which continue to spread across the globe...
