European Leagues

Man United want Wolves coach O’Neil to replace Ten Haag

Manchester United want to speak to Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach Gary O’Neil about a role in a potential new coaching setup at Old Trafford, sources have told ESPN.

With Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos group now in charge of football operations at United following the completion of their purchase of a 27% stake in the club in February, sources have said that the new regime, led by Ineos director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford, are attempting to build a new coaching structure led by a head coach.

And while no final decision has been made on Erik ten Hag’s future as manager, sources have told ESPN that United have already assessed England manager Gareth Southgate, Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi and Brentford’s Thomas Frank as potential successors.

O’Neil, who was appointed manager at Molineux last August following the departure of Julen Lopetegui, has guided Wolves into contention for European qualification this season after keeping Bournemouth in the Premier League during his first top-flight job last season.

And sources have told ESPN that the 40-year-old has been made aware of United’s interest, with senior figures from the club expressing a desire to discuss his intentions.

Sources have confirmed United’s interest in O’Neil to ESPN, although the role that they may be prepared to offer is not known. Aside from assessing managerial options, sources have said United are also looking at bolstering their entire coaching team.

O’Neil signed a three-year contract when taking charge of Wolves last summer, leaving United with the prospect of having to pay compensation should they choose to offer him a job at the club.

The former Middlesbrough, Portsmouth and West Ham United midfielder started his coaching career with Liverpool U-18s having been hired by Michael Edwards during his time as the club’s sporting director.

Edwards and O’Neil had previously worked together during Portsmouth’s time in the Premier League in the early 2000s.

Man United declined to comment about the possibility of talks with O’Neil when approached by ESPN.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Raphael Onyedika reflects on first UCL Goal

Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika expressed his excitement after scoring his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.

Despite Brugge’s 3-1 loss, Onyedika couldn’t hide his pride in the achievement. “I don’t know how to put it, but it’s an amazing feeling to score my first goal in City’s stadium. I’m so proud,” the Nigeria international told Flashcore.com.

Onyedika acknowledged that while Brugge took the lead, they struggled after conceding. “We knew it would be difficult after we got the first goal; we were a bit sloppy. And when we conceded the first goal, they had more momentum and energy, so it was much more difficult for us because of our mistakes.”

The goal will surely be a memorable moment for the young midfielder as he continues his Champions League journey.

Premier League

David Raya doubtful for Arsenal’s clash against Manchester City

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that goalkeeper David Raya may miss the Gunners’ crucial Premier League fixture against Manchester City on Sunday.

Raya was absent from Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Girona in the Champions League, with Neto stepping in for his debut after joining on a season-long loan from Bournemouth.

Although Neto conceded the opening goal to Arnaut Danjuma in the 28th minute, Arsenal responded with Jorginho’s penalty and a spectacular goal by rising star Ethan Nwaneri.

Arteta did not provide specific details on Raya’s injury but noted, “He certainly could not play, and he’s injured, and that’s it. We’ll see how it improves.”

When asked whether Neto could continue in Raya’s absence, Arteta expressed confidence in the experienced goalkeeper, stating, “That’s why he’s here, to do that job… I’m very happy that he played and we won again.”

Arsenal will be hoping Raya recovers in time for the vital clash as they look to maintain their strong position in the league.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Tella celebrates first Champions League goal in Bayer Leverkusen win

Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has joyfully celebrated his first-ever UEFA Champions League goal after netting in his team’s 2-0 triumph over Sparta Prague on Wednesday night.

The Nigeria international struck in the 64th minute, sealing the victory and helping Leverkusen advance to the Round of 16. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the former Burnley star, who was playing in England’s second-tier league just two years ago.

Taking to social media after the match, Tella shared his excitement with a heartfelt message accompanied by a photo from the game:

“Dreams come true,” he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso praised Tella’s performance as the team comfortably secured their place in the next stage of Europe’s elite competition. Tella’s rapid rise continues to inspire fans and players alike as he establishes himself on the European football stage.