ROOMERS
Wayne Rooney seems set for an exit. Latest reports indicate that his agent has arrived in China to discuss a potential move to the Chinese Super League. Rooney has become frustrated with his lack of starts and game-time under Jose Mourinho this season. Although no deal is in place, Rooney has been told that he can leave by the end of next week’s Chinese transfer deadline.
DOUBLE WHAMMY
In a blow to United ahead of Sunday’s showdown against Southampton at Wembley, Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Michael Carrick limped off with injuries in midweek. Mkhitaryan has hamstring problem while Carrick is dealing with calf niggle. Jose Mourinho also seemed to rule them out of the Cup final. The situation will become much clearer after further medical tests.
DERBY ON THE CARDS?
Manchester United and Manchester City could face each other in pre-season before next campaign. Both clubs will embark on a Tour of the United States and a play in the International Champions Cup. A derby was also scheduled last pre-season in the Bird’s Nest in Beijing but the match was suspender due to inclement weather.
LINDELOF LATEST
Meanwhile, AC Milan will rival United for Victor Lindelof’s signature after mega-bucks Chinese takeover of the team. The Italians look to a statement signing and snatching Lindelof under United’s noses would be the perfect way to do so.
HEYDAY-PAYDAY
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is line for a huge Manchester United bonus for breaking the 20 goal barrier this season. The Swede has a number of clauses in his contract, including one for becoming the Premier League’s top scorer. A source close to United revealed that he is in line for a nice lump of cash for breaking the 20-goal barrier. The sum in question is expected to be a six figure amount. Ibrahimovic has triggered a one-year extension to his contract but is undecided on whether he will stay on.
MOURINHO COMMENTS
Mourinho is enraged with the FA for scheduling their FA Cup tie at Stamford Bridge on the Monday before their Europa League round of 16 encounter. Despite this he claimed that he will field a strong side for both matches. He also cited City’s example of fielding a weakened side against Chelsea in last season’s Cup ahead of their Champions League match against Dynamo Zagreb. City lost 5-1.
BAILLY CLARIFICATION
Eric Bailly is still one match away from suspension in the Europa League. He is suspended from the Round of 16’s first match. Another booking will also mean another suspension for the Ivorian. UEFA rules state that accumulation of three yellow cards in 3 different games leads to a one match ban. Thereafter, every odd (fifth, seventh etc.) yellow card will also result in a suspension. Eric now has 4 to his name. All accumulations are cleared at the Quarter Final stage.