Declan Rice reacts after Roy Keane’s brutal outburst at Arsenal summer signing
Declan Rice made his league debut against Mikel Arteta in the Community Shield as Arsenal’s new midfielder helped his side win their first trophy of the season
Declan Rice says he is “buzzing” to help Arsenal lift the Community Shield with a shoot-out win over Manchester City, despite Roy Keane’s brutal criticism.
Mikel Arteta’s side were late to take penalties after Cole Palmer conceded to City. Leandro Trossard’s deflected shot found the back of the net in the 101st minute to ensure the match would be decided by penalties after a period of continued pressure from the Gunners.
And it was Arsenal who kept morale up as they won 4-1 on penalties to claim their first trophy of the season. Arteta cut a happy figure after the final whistle when it was handed to him by Pep Guardiola – after City won all three of their fixtures last season. But before the game, all eyes were on Arsenal’s three summer signings as Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber made their competitive debuts. However, it appeared Rice had something more to prove after Keane slammed the England international and claimed the Gunners had overpaid for him.
“Obviously he will be surrounded by better players and different demands,” Keane told ITV. “If he plays a bit higher, I think he will definitely have the quality to score more goals. He obviously has the physical strength to get into the penalty area.
“You obviously paid way too much for him. Certainly not worth more than £100m! But a really good player. We will find out in the next couple of years how good Declan is. He shows up every week, he’s a big strong guy. We talked about that physicality, here’s what he’s been missing for the last couple of months. Does he really have that superior quality in terms of seeing a pass and scoring nine or ten goals? We will know soon.
Rice put in a great performance throughout the game and showed why the Gunners paid so much for him. There were occasions when he could have been a bit better in possession, but he won the ball back on several occasions and showed tenacity in his tackles – something Arsenal lacked last season.
After the match, Rice said: “I’m delighted, that’s what I had in mind when I came on board. City gave us what we expected but I’m delighted – so happy. You have to have patience against them, you have to have that.” Mini-games in the match against them, as the manager told us before. “Winning today, my first for the club. I feel I’ve grown a lot over the last three weeks. There’s a lot of information I need to gather on what the manager wants. I’m eager to learn and keep growing, I’m sure we can get everything this season, we just have to stay focused.”
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Manchester United v Athletic Bilbao VIDEO Highlights, player performance, & Reactions as Pellistri Secures Equalizer
A full recap of Man United’s 1-1 draw with Athletic Bilbao on Sunday afternoon at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.
Manchester United ended their 2023 pre-season with a 1-1 draw against Athletic Bilbao in Dublin on Sunday afternoon.
Winger Facundo Pellistri equalized in the last minute in added time to save the draw for the Reds, who had been trailing since the 29th minute.
Bilbao were sent off defender Aitor Paredes after 66 minutes, prompting United to apply a lot of pressure in the closing stages, a tactic that finally paid off with the game’s very last free-kick.
The draw at the Aviva Stadium meant United ended their pre-season with four wins, three losses and one draw from eight games. United will now turn their attention to the season opener against Wolves at Old Trafford in eight days’ time. It remains to be seen whether the club will add new faces to the roster before the season closes.
REPORT: Some United careers may have ended against Bilbao, while others are just starting..
The banner read “Bring on United”. It is unlikely that many of their supporters will ask Erik ten Hag to bring Harry Maguire this season. From Australia to the United States to Ireland, boos have followed Maguire by land and sea. He was initially warmly applauded at the Aviva Stadium, but he turned attack into defense and Nico Williams charged in to give Athletic Bilbao the lead.
United’s full pre-season results
United’s pre-season schedule concludes with this afternoon’s 1-1 draw against Bilbao in Dublin. All attention now goes to next Monday’s season opener against Wolves.
Here’s a full reminder of United’s pre-season results:
v Leeds United – 2-0 (W)
vs Lyon – 1-0 (W)
vs Arsenal – 2-0 (W)
– Wrexham – 1-3 (S)
vs Real Madrid – 0-2 (L)
against Borussia Dortmund – 2-3 (L)
compared to RC target – 3-1 (W)
vs Athletic Bilbao – 1-1 (L)
Player Performance ratings; Manchester vs AthletiCo Bilbao
United ended their pre-season in Dublin this afternoon with a 1-1 draw against Bilbao.
Our United editor Samuel Luckhurst was at the Aviva Stadium and here’s a look at how he rated the players out of ten…
Tom Heaton
Did well again and readily adapts to Erik ten Hag’s demands of a proactive goalkeeper. Inaki Williams’ goal was nearly blocked. 6
Aaron Wan-Bissaka
He has done almost nothing in the last third, that’s what he will be judged on. Open conversation with Ten Hag; maybe she’s coming out of his shell. 5
Victor Lindeloff
Switched to the left side of central defense and was comfortable with him. He showed a sense of adventure as United looked to equalise. 6
Harry Maguire
He made some sloppy mistakes before his pass interception led to the opener. booed and then applauded. He showed resilience to assist Facundo Pellistri. 6
Alvaro Fernandez
He got off to some crowd pleasers in the final third but came close to giving away a penalty. Ten Hag seemed satisfied with his effort. 6
Dan Gore
He dutifully took over the role Kobbie Mainoo seemed to fill for most of the preseason and got back to work. 6
Christian Eriksen
He should have been more in charge and still looks a long way off the form of him in the early months of last season. His free kick went just over the goal. 5
Pellistri Factor
Started brilliantly and should have played Omari Forson. He slacked off in the first half but won in the second, surprising Athletic. Foul several times then equalized. 8th
Donny van de Beek
A possible swan song for the Dutchman, so unconvincing and replaced at halftime. Perhaps an appropriate epitaph to his United career. 4
Omari Forsson
Back on the left wing, he wasn’t quite as threatening as he was against Borussia Dortmund before his penalty retirement. 5
Jadon Sancho
He missed one-on-one in the third minute with a weak left foot. A few nice clutches before it arrived an hour later. 6
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Hannibal Mebri
Started urgently, causing a cynical foul by Aitor Paredes which led to his expulsion. Bad luck with a volley. 7
Johnny Evans
Deserved the highest acclaim of the afternoon. Beaten easily by Williams. 5
joe hugill
Had an enviable presence in pre-season but didn’t do much after his arrival. 5
Noam Emeran
Neat cameo appearance. 6
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Matching points: Man United close to ‘incredible’ £70m ace, imagine him and Rashfod – Opinion
Man United: Imagine Mount & Rashford
The Chelsea midfielder is set to move to Old Taffo this summer.
Manchester United have been one of Mason Mount’s hottest opponents in recent weeks and now a new update for the player’s suit this summer has surfaced.
What’s the news on Man United’s move to Mason Mount?
According to the Times, the Chelsea midfielder has agreed personal terms to become a Man United player this summer.
As things stand, it’s claimed the Red Devils are set to make Mount their first signing of the summer, with Egik ten Hag keen to bring more creativity to his midfield build this summer. and Chelsea looking to concede to ensure they don’t lose a huge fortune on a fee next summer. Would Mason Mount fit for Man United?
While the most promising concern for Elyk ten Hag will be cente-foгwaгd гole this summerг, an opportunity to increase the quality and attacking aspects at heart center is an opportunity they cannot afford to continue.
While Man United can boast some highly regarded midfield talent, they are certainly part of the squad looking to age with Chгіstіan Eгіksen, Casemігo and Fгed all in their thirties at this point and plus Bгuno Feгnandes, three of the more experienced first team players.
Consequently, Mount’s performance offers the Dutch manager the opportunity to continue his career at Old Taffo by not only injecting a number of youngsters into midfield but also playing an important role. a high level of quality and a quirky mentality that suits those decorated games that make it feel.
The 24-year-old Champions League winner – who is “incredible” in Joe Cole’s words – offers flexibility in working with him having experience in a variety of roles. It’s about his illustrious caгeeг so faг, but he could be the fantastic outlet Ten Hag is looking for who can combine with one of his England teammates to make Unіted an unstoppable fighting force. Maccus Rashford has been one of the standout performers for the Manchester side this season – scoring 30 goals and 11 assists in all competitions and scoring every 104 minutes, an impressive feat unmatched by any other player in the team but Feñandes added the second goal less than half (14).
Now Mount could give the fast wing even more chances to create chances, bringing constant creativity to midfield and crossing the attacking lines to form a dangerous attacking threat.
Chelsea academy among Europe’s top five leagues in the top 15% of their midfield players on shot attempts, shots on goal, aggressive cages, ball touches and rough passes thought he could be a key asset when playing the last ball in the penalty area or even using scoring chances with confidence.
With that in mind, it will be interesting to see how Ten Hag Mount uses when he joins the Red Devils this summer and whether he can live up to the high expectations for next season that come with his prestigious £70m price tag.
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Transfer news LIVE: Neymar talks on PSG exit, Mbappe move detailed and Man Utd’s Kane stance clear
Manchester United’s hopes of signing Harry Kane are dwindling, unlike Arsenal’s pursuit of Declan Rice, with the West Ham captain confirmed to be on the move once the summer transfer window opens
The summer transfer window doesn’t open for a few days’ time, but that isn’t stopping clubs from making huge moves
Ahead of Wednesday’s opening, Liverpool have already confirmed the signing of Brighton midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, while Arsenal are poised to make their first bid for West Ham captain Declan Rice, who’s played his final game for the club. Also in the Premier League, Manchester United are expected to kick into gear – despite their long-running takeover saga still not being resolved – with Erik ten Hag hoping to capture Harry Kane as well as Mason Mount, who the Red Devils have agreed personal terms with.
On the continent, Jude Bellingham is on the verge of completing a dream move by signing for Real Madrid. And Lionel Messi is on the move, too, after announcing that he’ll be playing in the United States next season, making the decision to join Inter Miami, the MLS club which David Beckham co-founded
West Ham line-up Rice replacement
West Ham are preparing to sell captain Declan Rice this summer and have earmarked Ajax holding midfielder Edson Alvarez as a replacement, say The Guardian.
The Mexican international could be available for a fee in the region of £45million, which is around half the price that the Hammers could attain for Rice.
Maddison tops Newcastle shortlist
Newcastle are keen on another summer of strong recruitment with Leicester City playmaker James Maddison top of their wanted list.
That is according to the Daily Mail, who mention that Premier League trio of Brighton’s Moises Caicedo, Manchester United’s Scott McTominay and Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher are also on the club’s targets.
Pulisic on Milan radar
Christian Pulisic is likely to be among the exodus from Chelsea this summer with Milan monitoring a move.
That is according to Gazzetta dello Sport, who claim that the 24-year-old winger would be willing to lower his annual salary to complete a move to the Rossoneri.
Blues knocked back over Onana
Chelsea want to sign Inter goalkeeper Andre Onana but their approach of €40million has been rejected, say Calciomercato.
The Cameroonian starred in the Champions League final for the Italian giants, and Mauricio Pochettino wants him to replace Kepa Arrizabalaga this summer.
Chukwueze on the move
Milan want to sign Villarreal forward Samuel Chukwueze this summer, according to Sky Sports Italia.
Chukwueze has frequently been linked with a move to the Premier League while Real Madrid are said to be monitoring his situation this summer.
Chelsea must change Havertz price
Chelsea will have to lower their £70million asking price for Kai Havertz if they are to move on the German international this summer, say the Telegraph.
Havertz is on Real Madrid’s attacking shortlist this summer but the Spanish giants are not willing to go above £50million – with the player keen for a move.
Real Madrid’s Kane stance
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti is continuing to push the club to land Harry Kane this summer but the club are prioritising a long-term approach for Kylian Mbappe.
Kane, 29, is out of contract at Tottenham next summer and this summer is likely to be the last opportunity Spurs have to cash in on the striker before risking him leaving as a free agent. Their preference is to sell him to a club outside of England and not to a direct rival.
The England international is on Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag’s target list this summer as he is on red alert to sign a central striker at Old Trafford. United are desperate to sign an elite central striker and Ten Hag believed Kane’s contractual situation will mean that a deal is possible.
Bayern want Lucas decision
The France international may well be on the move this summer.
Spurs want Sancho
Tottenham are weighing up a £50million move for Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho, say the Daily Star.
Sancho has failed to reproduce the form he showed at Borussia Dortmund across his two seasons at United, despite showing semi-frequent glimpses of his quality.
16:24Colin Millar
United lose hope on Kane
Manchester United are increasingly resigned to the fact they will not sign Harry Kane this summer, The Times reports.
The England captain is Erik ten Hag’s main striking target but United are said to believe that Spurs will not countenance a sale this summer to a Premier League rival.
Real Madrid are also interested in the striker, but United may have to wait a year for Kane’s contract to expire.
16:00Colin Millar
Silva’s Man City future
Manchester City are basking in the glory of their treble success but risk losing several key players this summer with Bernardo Silva wanted by Paris Saint-Germain.
The Portugal international has been on Barcelona ’s wanted list for over a year with boss Xavi Hernandez confirming they wanted a deal last summer, which did not come to fruition. Silva is now a key transfer target for PSG, who are looking to replace Lionel Messi.
City boss Pep Guardiola has repeatedly refused to sanction Silva’s exit despite the player’s keenness for pastures new. The playmaker played a pivotal role in the club’s successes this campaign but he has made no secret internally that he was open to a move away from the Etihad.
Gundogan’s Saudi offer
Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan has received an offer to move to Saudi Arabia this summer, say Foot Mercato.
Gundogan remains a key member of City’s starting line-up and netted twice in their FA Cup final success this summer but may leave this summer.
The club want him to stay but his latest offers comes amid strong interest from Barcelona in the midfielder, with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain also lingering for his signature.
Nacho confirms Real Madrid decision
Real Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez has confirmed he is staying on at the club next season.
“I’ve decided to stay at Real Madrid. There are offers as always but I want to stay one more year, I’m so happy about it.”
Neymar on Saudi list
Al-Hilal missed out on a transfer for Lionel Messi, but they are now turning to signing Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain.
That is according to CBS Sports, who claim that PSG would be delighted to offload the Brazilian’s wages as they restructure their squad.
Mirror Football understands that PSG are keen to sell Neymar this summer, so this is one to keep an eye on.
Roma confirm Aouar signing
Roma have confirmed the signing of Houssem Aouar following the expiration of his contract at Lyon.
Back in 2023, the midfielder was strongly linked with a move to Arsenal.
Gunners go for Castagne
Leicester City may undergo somewhat of a mass exodus this summer following their relegation.
Belgian international Timothy Castagne is now emerging as a target for Arsenal, who want more depth in the right-back position.
West Ham are hoping to sign Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe as part of a player-plus-cash swap deal for Declan Rice.
The Sun claim that Rice is close to joining the Gunners but West Ham want something in return for their captain as well as cash.
A lack of fitness and increased competition forced Smith Rowe out of Mikel Arteta’s side for much last season.
His future is now uncertain, despite signing a new long-term deal in 2021 and also being given the No.10 shirt.
:10John Cross
Inter president wants Lukaku stay
Inter Milan president Steven Zhang is determined to find a way to broker a new deal for Romelu Lukaku.
Zhang described the on-loan Chelsea striker as “amazing” even after Lukaku’s incredible miss in the Champions League final Lukaku, 30, wants to stay at Inter for another season rather than return to Stamford Bridge this summer to try and resurrect his Chelsea career under Mauricio Pochettino.
Belgium striker Lukaku was only a substitute in the final but his performance will always be remembered for the jaw-dropping miss in the dying stages against Manchester City. Lukaku had the whole goal to aim at from point blank range but headed straight at City keeper Ederson who kept the ball out.
That miss will arguably be remembered even more than City midfielder Rodri’s winner in the final. It also highlighted all of Lukaku’s problems as he is no longer a starter at Inter, is wasteful in front of goal and his huge contract is a massive problem for Chelsea.
Lukaku was signed two years ago for £97.5m, has three years left on his £325,000-a-week deal and Inter cannot realistically afford to buy him so only want another loan deal which does not really help Chelsea as they look to balance the books.
But Zhang said: “He showed great attachment to Inter. He loves Inter, that’s very clear. He’s an amazing guy. But the guy has a contract with Chelsea, so we have to wait to talk to them to understand.”
Guardiola’s future in discussion
Pep Guardiola admitted that chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak had already spoken to him about his future at Manchester City.
“Please don’t talk to me about going again,” he joked. “My chairman told me the Champions League final is in London next year – and I can’t tell you what I said to him! I am a good manager – thank you Pep – but I can’t win a treble every single year.”
“Maybe people will now give us credit for winning five Premier Leagues. Maybe we can now build a museum to show off all of our trophies.”