Soccer2day

1 The FA Cup final looks to be a seminal moment in Manchester United’s history, regardless of the result. A multitude of players are set to depart in the summer, a new executive structure will arrive, and Erik ten Hag’s job security is a huge question mark as well. However, amidst all that noise, Ten Hag has struck a defiant and positive tone in his programme notes ahead of the marquee clash. Ten Hag has said that regardless of the result, United are well-placed to compete in the future due to the foundations already in place. He said that work has been put in to secure the future of the club and he has bright hopes that it will bear fruit. He said: “Whatever happens this afternoon, I am absolutely convinced that the future for Man United is bright with the talent we have among our players and the work we have been doing to build for long-term success.” Talking about the positive long-term outlook has been a constant theme this season for the manager. The Dutchman has promoted the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo to the first team while the transfer market has seen high-upside players like Rasmus Hojlund arrive. United will also reportedly make a concerted effort to buy younger players under INEOS and Ten Hag, for all his faults, deserves credit for his handling of youth. It remains to be seen if Ten Hag is the man to lead United into that supposedly bright future, however, with reports that he has already been informed of the sack regardless of the result. If that is the case, then he can still point to his fingerprints over United’s potentially next great team. That is not a bad legacy to be remembered by instead of the wretched, injury-riddled season that has become a long-running nightmare at Old Trafford. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

Erik ten Hag believes Arne Slot arrives in “better waters” at Liverpool than he did at Man United, summing up his feelings on the issues at Old Trafford. With Ten Hag expected to be sacked regardless of the result of Saturday’s FA Cup final, there may be no reunion with Slot in the Premier League next season. The two Dutchmen met on four occasions while in the Eredivisie, with Slot’s AZ Alkmaar twice triumphant over Ten Hag’s Ajax, who returned the favour against Feyenoord. Both built strong reputations for their work in the Netherlands, but Ten Hag’s struggle since joining Man United has been a red flag for many Liverpool fans. The Man United boss himself believes Slot has a better platform for success at Anfield, which highlights how he feels about his job at Old Trafford. “This is great for the Dutch trainers’ guild, and Arne Slot also fits Liverpool with his philosophy,” Ten Hag told vi.nl. “Jurgen Klopp and Pepijn Lijnders have left a strong foundation. “He ends up in better waters than I did when I went to Manchester United from the Netherlands, in terms of structure in the club, in terms of balance in the squad.” Ten Hag’s time in Manchester has been fraught with struggle both on and off the pitch, with the 54-year-old facing a ridiculous series of transgressions. Though there is promise of change with their recent takeover, the club is in shambles, as highlighted by the news of Ten Hag’s sacking emerging before the FA Cup final. In that sense, he is right, with Slot joining Liverpool at the best possible time – with Klopp only choosing to depart when he felt the squad was strong enough. Of course, Ten Hag’s words could be seen as piling pressure on his compatriot, but there is an honesty in his assessment of the two clubs. Slot had previously turned down an offer to take over as Tottenham manager which, as Ange Postecoglou has since discovered, is also a much different proposition than head coach at Liverpool. Better waters indeed!

1 It all comes down to this. Wembley awaits for Manchester United in the FA Cup final and the nemesis is as strong as ever. Erik ten Hag might or might not be the United manager at the start of the next season but he’s here now and he and his team deserve all the support from every United fan. Manchester City are as tough an opponent as they come in world football and United will have to pretty much play a perfect game to outlive them. Here are three things Ten Hag needs to do to give his team the best chance of winning a game that has a lot riding on it- Don’t get baited into a straight fight United can’t be afraid of City and cower under their might. But at the same time, it would be delusional to think they are at the same level technically, or even comparing man-to-man. Therefore, what United lack in quality, they need to make up for it in sheer desire and passion. They might seem like blanket terms for when the game lacks analysis, but going against City at their own game is a death sentence. United’s best chance is to sit back, bypass the City press by playing over it and letting their pacy forward run at the opponent’s defence. If they get baited into outpassing City, playing from the back, or pressing them high with acres of space behind, this game will be played right into Pep Guardiola’s hands. Get his players to start like their lives depend on it United went into last year’s FA Cup final against City in much better form and condition than they do this time. However, a shock-opening goal within seconds immediately left them with a mountain to climb, which they ultimately didn’t. This year, United arguably have more riding on this game than City, who were going for a treble last year. This time, United have European qualification on the line and a semblance of respect to achieve after a nightmare season. They need to start like City did last year, playing at full throttle, in their faces and make City know they are in for 90 minutes of hell, regardless of the result. The Ten Hag blueprint through which he got the home win against Liverpool last season, when nobody gave United a chance, is a good template to follow. Use the bench well Ten Hag said after the Brighton game that with players returning from injury, he has now got a “luxury” problem. He added that his team was competitive against City at the Etihad Stadium before their superior bench strength had them take over. Those two comments take out every mitigating factor/excuse for the manager and his team now that they have pretty much the whole team back for this game. Only Harry Maguire and natural left-backs Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are ruled out so Ten Hag will finally have established internationals on the pitch as well as on the bench. United are going to be chasing the ball for much of the game so energy off the bench will be needed. Furthermore, pace is the thing that can’t be taught and is needed for playing a transition game. Therefore, he will need to manager his resources carefully and keep enough threats on the bench to keep City defenders on their toes. City are likely to lay siege on the United box, United need a siege mentality to overcome it. It starts with more than just the XI who start the match. Arguably, the XI that finishes it is even more important. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

The 2023/2024 DStv Premiership season will conclude with a full round of eight fixtures on Saturday, 25 May. Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! All matches will kick off at 15:00. Despite there being just 90 minutes of the season remaining, there is still plenty up for grabs, as detailed below. One of the matches which will have MTN8 qualification and CAF implications is the Orlando Pirates vs SuperSport United clash at the Orlando Stadium. Follow the action LIVE below: FINAL DAY FIXTURES Polokwane City vs TS Galaxy Cape Town Spurs vs Kaizer Chiefs Mamelodi Sundowns vs Cape Town City FC Chippa United vs Sekhukhune United Swallows vs Royal AM Orlando Pirates vs SuperSport United Richards Bay vs Stellenbosch FC AmaZulu vs Golden Arrows CHAMPIONS Mamelodi Sundowns have long since been crowned league champions of South Africa for a seventh consecutive season and 14th time overall. CAF SPOTS If Stellenbosch FC beat Richards Bay away from home in their final match, they will join Mamelodi Sundowns in representing Mzansi in next season’s CAF Champions League. If Stellies draw against the Natal Rich Boys, they will need Orlando Pirates to draw or lose their final day match at home against SuperSport United in order to qualify for the CAF Champions League. If Stellenbosch FC lose against Richards Bay, they will need Orlando Pirates to lose against SuperSport United in order to qualify for the CAF Champions League. Anything less than that will see Stellenbosch FC enter the CAF Confederations Cup while Orlando Pirates will join Masandawana in the CAF Champions League. MTN8 SPOTS Seven teams have already booked their places in next season’s MTN8 tournament where R8 million will be awarded to the winner. As reported by The South African website, no fewer than FIVE teams are fighting for that eighth and final place. On paper, Kaizer Chiefs have the best shot at securing that place against relegated Cape Town Spurs in their final DStv Premiership match. The final finishing order will determine the matches for the opening round of the MTN8 next season. RELEGATION Cape Town Spurs have been relegated from the DStv Premiership and will be replaced next season by NFD winners Magesi FC. Richards Bay are all-but assured of having to enter a promotion-relegation playoff against the University of Pretoria and Baroka FC to determine whether they stay up, or are replaced by one the NFD teams. DSTV PREMIERSHIP STANDINGS

The 2023/2024 DStv Premiership season will conclude with a full round of eight fixtures on Saturday, 25 May. Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! All matches will kick off at 15:00. Despite there being just 90 minutes of the season remaining, there is still plenty up for grabs, as detailed below. One of the matches which will have MTN8 qualification implications is the Cape Town Spurs vs Kaizer Chiefs clash at the Cape Town Stadium. Follow the action LIVE below: FINAL DAY FIXTURES Polokwane City vs TS Galaxy Cape Town Spurs vs Kaizer Chiefs Mamelodi Sundowns vs Cape Town City FC Chippa United vs Sekhukhune United Swallows vs Royal AM Orlando Pirates vs SuperSport United Richards Bay vs Stellenbosch FC AmaZulu vs Golden Arrows CHAMPIONS Mamelodi Sundowns have long since been crowned league champions of South Africa for a seventh consecutive season and 14th time overall. CAF SPOTS If Stellenbosch FC beat Richards Bay away from home in their final match, they will join Mamelodi Sundowns in representing Mzansi in next season’s CAF Champions League. If Stellies draw against the Natal Rich Boys, they will need Orlando Pirates to draw or lose their final day match at home against SuperSport United in order to qualify for the CAF Champions League. If Stellenbosch FC lose against Richards Bay, they will need Orlando Pirates to lose against SuperSport United in order to qualify for the CAF Champions League. Anything less than that will see Stellenbosch FC enter the CAF Confederations Cup while Orlando Pirates will join Masandawana in the CAF Champions League. MTN8 SPOTS Seven teams have already booked their places in next season’s MTN8 tournament where R8 million will be awarded to the winner. As reported by The South African website, no fewer than FIVE teams are fighting for that eighth and final place. On paper, Kaizer Chiefs have the best shot at securing that place against relegated Cape Town Spurs in their final DStv Premiership match. The final finishing order will determine the matches for the opening round of the MTN8 next season. RELEGATION Cape Town Spurs have been relegated from the DStv Premiership and will be replaced next season by NFD winners Magesi FC. Richards Bay are all-but assured of having to enter a promotion-relegation playoff against the University of Pretoria and Baroka FC to determine whether they stay up, or are replaced by one the NFD teams. DSTV PREMIERSHIP STANDINGS

Six Orlando Pirates players, along with head coach Jose Riveiro, are in the running for accolades at the 2024 PSL Awards ceremony scheduled for next month. Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! The nominees were announced in 14 categories across league and cup football as well as junior competition. Dominate the MTN8 Last Man Standing category The Buccaneers are well represented in the shortlist, following some stellar team and individual displays throughout the season. They dominate the MTN8 Last Man Standing category after successfully defending their title during the early part of the campaign. Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine is nominated in the category alongside Bucs attackers Patrick Maswanganyi and Zakhele Lepasa, with the Bucs trio rewarded for their heroics throughout the tournament. Maswanganyi is one of two Orlando Pirates players shortlisted in multiple categories, and will contest the Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament award alongside striker Tshegofatso Mabasa. The other player to bag more than one nomination is teen sensation Relebohile Mofokeng, who is in the running for the Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player and DStv Premiership Young Player of the Season accolades. Centre-back Tapelo Xoki is up for the league’s Defender of the Season award, while Maswanganyi makes his third appearance in the list of nominees in the Midfielder of the Season category. The Bucs contingent in the shortlist is rounded up by Riveiro, who is among the DStv Premiership Coach of the Season nominees. PSL Awards 2024: Selected categories MTN8 Last Man Standing: Sipho Chaine, Zakhele Lepasa, Patrick Maswanganyi (all Orlando Pirates) Nedbank Cup Most Promising Player of the Tournament: Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates), Shandre Campbell (SuperSport United), Devin Titus (Stellenbosch) Nedbank Cup Player of the Tournament: Tshegofatso Mabasa, Patrick Maswanganyi (both Orlando Pirates), Iqraam Rayners (Stellenbosch) DStv Premiership Defender of the Season: Grant Kekana (Mamelodi Sundowns), Deano van Rooyen (Stellenbosch), Tapelo Xoki (Orlando Pirates) DStv Premiership Midfielder of the Season: Sanele Barns (Richards Bay), Patrick Maswanganyi (Orlando Pirates), Devin Titus (Stellenbosch) DStv Premiership Young Player of the Season: Relebohile Mofokeng (Orlando Pirates), Shandre Campbell, Ime Okon (both SuperSport United) DStv Premiership Player’s Player of the Season: Patrick Maswanganyi (Orlando Pirates), Iqraam Rayners (Stellenbosch), Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns) DStv Premiership Coach of the Season: Steve Barker (Stellenbosch), Rhulani Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns), Jose Riveiro (Orlando Pirates)

Kaizer Chiefs cannot afford not to win – and win handsomely – against Cape Town Spurs at the Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, 25 May if they are to claim a Top 8 finish in the 2023/24 DStv Premiership. Kick-off is at 15:00. Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! Coach Cavin Johnson spoke to the official Kaizer Chiefs website as the Glamour Boys wrapped up their preparations for the match. Week‘s training Well, it’s the final game of the season so we’ve just finished the last few days of training with the players. From my side, I am happy with what I consider a very good week of preparation. We are well aware of the importance of the match, and what is at stake, a Top 8 finish, so we have a clear idea of what we have to do, which is win against Cape Town Spurs. State of the squad We have more than 10 players unavailable for reasons such as injury and suspension, so we will go there with the personnel we have. I have confidence in them to be able to get the result we need to finish eighth. Opposition They may already be relegated but that means nothing to me. Only our own situation matters to me and I am concentrating on what we need to achieve. I expect Cape Town Spurs to put in a good performance and challenge us in front of their fans, because every team takes it up a level when they face Kaizer Chiefs. Therefore, we are focused on playing at our best and, if we do that, we will reap the rewards. Tickets Tickets for the match are still available through TicketPro online at www.ticketpros.co.za or Spar and Boxer Supermarkets, as well as Sasol and Shell filling stations, including Postnet outlets throughout the country at R100 per ticket. DStv Premiership log

1 It has been a difficult last few days for Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag with reports of an impending sack doing the rounds all over. The Dutchman has been busy preparing for the FA Cup final against Manchester City, hoping to end a disastrous season on a high. He was adamant even a few weeks ago that the new co-owners INEOS had assured him that his job was safe. The Red Devils had finished the Premier League season in eighth, their lowest-ever in the competition, and most of the blame was put on the former Ajax coach’s door due to his choice of tactics. Recent reports have suggested that Ten Hag will be done away with irrespective of the outcome of the summit clash and the timing of these damaging leaks have been widely criticised. Damaging leaks Initially, there were numerous links with the likes of Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Gareth Southgate and Roberto De Zerbi. But with Mauricio Pochettino now available and Kieran Mckenna looking for an upgrade, INEOS are reportedly considering the duo with reports indicating there was a meeting with the former United coach’s entourage. United have denied those claims vehemently and in a recent interview, Ten Hag has remained steadfast in his belief that he will be around even next season. INEOS have reportedly yet to decide their next course of action with regards to the managerial position But The Sun have claimed that Mckenna’s camp feel confident of landing the gig. “Kieran Mckenna feels he is closing in on a sensational return to Old Trafford as Erik ten Hag’s replacement. McKenna’s agents are pushing hard for the deal and United are ready to take a gamble on the Northern Irishman. Mckenna confident of succeeding EtH “The in-demand Ipswich head coach has his heart set on going back to Manchester United where he was formerly assistant boss and first-team coach. “But sources said last night McKenna was “in the driving seat” in the race to become United boss when the inevitable axe falls on Ten Hag.” Ten Hag is in a perilous position, akin to what his fellow Dutch coach Louis van Gaal had faced and despite a change of ownership of sporting affairs, not much seems to have changed as seen from the timing of the leaks. Hopefully, irrespective of whether the manager can save his job or not, he can restore his legacy by helping the club win the FA Cup and ensure another trophy in the cabinet before departing the Theatre of Dreams. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

With Arne Slot beginning his job as Liverpool head coach next week, the Dutchman’s captain at Feyenoord, Gernot Trauner, has revealed what he’s like. Slot will officially start work at Liverpool on June 1, though the 45-year-old has already arrived on Merseyside as he adjusts to his new home. He has left Feyenoord after three successful seasons, and is tasked with an enormous job in replacing a legendary figure in Jurgen Klopp. There is a sense of the unknown when it comes to Slot, despite his CV in the Netherlands, but Trauner – who joined Feyenoord soon after the coach and became club captain – has explained his management style. “He was a very important factor in me coming to Feyenoord and has always relied on me,” Trauner told Flashscore. “He’s a tremendous specialist and has incredible ideas in terms of ball possession, buildup play and positioning. A lot of detail in running and passing. “There is no pass without an idea behind it. He tries to move the opponents and find open spaces. “He has a very good feel for what he has to tell the team in meetings, how he has to treat people, and whether he has to tickle someone. “He is of a very, very high level. I can definitely imagine that things will also go very well for him in the Premier League.” Liverpool were successful in convincing Slot to leave Rotterdam, but he had already turned down advances from the likes of Tottenham and Leeds as he awaited what Trauner labels “the right club.” “Of course, it hurts us, we would have liked to have had him with us for longer,” the Austrian continued. “But I’m not crying for him because it was clear that he would take the next step at some point. It was only a matter of time before he found the right club. “Liverpool and Arne Slot could be a perfect match. I wish him all the best.” Only fellow defender Lutsharel Geertruida (127) has made more appearances under Slot than Trauner (104), so the 32-year-old is well placed to detail his quality as a coach. Liverpool appear to have landed an intelligent, thorough head coach with a strong understanding of squad dynamics and man-management. In short, as Trauner argues, Slot seems to be the “perfect match” when it comes to Klopp’s successor at Anfield.

As he leaves Liverpool on the expiry of his contract this summer, Thiago is reported to have been offered an unlikely role as part of Barcelona’s staff. Thiago has departed Merseyside after four years, with the midfielder suffering a frustrating final season at Liverpool that brought just one appearance. With no new contract offered, the 33-year-old has left along with Joel Matip, and the pair are now free to sign with other clubs. Sides in Saudi Arabia, Spain and England have already been linked with offers to Thiago, but Spanish publication AS claim he is also attracting interest as a coach. Barcelona announced their decision to sack Xavi on Friday – a month after persuading him to stay – with former Bayern Munich and Germany manager Hansi Flick set to take over. It is claimed that the club are seeking to appoint an assistant “who knows German and Spanish perfectly and who acts as a direct link with the squad.” That arriving coach would be “fundamental in coexistence in the locker room” and “very open to dialogue with the players.” Technical director Deco is said to be targeting “a former player who is going to finish his career,” with Thiago, Marc Bartra and Javi Martinez held up as candidates. Thiago was the first player contacted, the report states, though there is a “certain pessimism in the club” that he would take the job. If he were to consider the position, it could mean ending his playing career earlier than expected – though a player-coach role would be an interesting proposition. The 33-year-old certainly fits the job description as he is fluent in Spanish and German, as well as English, Portuguese and Catalan, and boasts a strong affinity to Barcelona having come through their academy. When Liverpool confirmed the release of Thiago – who was given a guard of honour after the season’s final game at Anfield – Jurgen Klopp suggested he would continue playing. “I know injuries have been a frustration for him and also for us but the level that he was able to play at when he was available was incredible,” the manager said. “This is what I will remember. “Now he will go in a new direction with his family and we can only wish them well. “Wherever he plays next I would be happy to watch. An artist of the game who will only ever paint the most beautiful pictures.”

Chiefs will need to equal or better AmaZulu’s result in order to retain their eighth spot. As Kaizer Chiefs approach their final fixture of the 2023/24 DStv Premiership season against Cape Town Spurs, they will go into this encounter knowing that even a victory against the relegated side might not be enough to earn them a spot in the Top 8. ALSO READ: Chiefs lead race for Pirates and Sundowns target Chiefs are currently eighth on the log, equal on 36 points with ninth-placed AmaZulu, but Amakhosi have a one goal difference advantage over Usuthu who host neighbours Golden Arrows at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on the same day. Chiefs will need to equal or better AmaZulu’s result in order to retain their eighth spot and qualify for the MTN8. The 2023/24 season has been a disappointing one for Amakhosi and they will once again finish it without winning any silverware. Defender Thatayaone Ditlhokwe believes that despite some disappointments along the way, there are many good things they can take into next season. “As we come to the end of the season, in my opinion it hasn’t gone as well as I had hoped, but with each and every challenge that one faces, there are always lessons to be learnt and experience to be gained. So, it is important to focus on the positives and work on carrying them forward,” he said. “This last game is still very important and we are preparing very seriously in order to solidify our spot in the Top 8. They may already be relegated but that can make them dangerous because they have nothing to lose, and we have a lot to lose. Therefore, we are preparing to be at our best. “There is a chance of the other teams on the same points overtaking us, which is why we are focused first and foremost on winning against Spurs, and hopefully scoring a few goals.” Ditlhokwe added that every Chiefs player is determined to close the campaign out on a high note and create a sense of anticipation for better things to come next season. “Every player is fully motivated to get the result we need, especially for our supporters, who have been behind us all the way, even when we haven’t done so well. So, we really want to end the season well and give them something to look forward to next season.” ALSO READ: Cape Town Spurs will not just lie down for Kaizer Chiefs It has also been a disappointing season for Ditlhokwe with the Botswana defender spending a lot of time nursing an injury. “I was out for almost six months, but that’s football, you know. Injuries are part of the game. Being unable to play has been difficult but now I am grateful to have recovered fully,” said Ditlhokwe.

While every football fan believes VAR and refereeing decisions go against them, data suggests Liverpool have been surprisingly impacted since its introduction. VAR was brought into the Premier League five seasons ago, which provides a useful point to assess how each club has been affected. ESPN‘s Dale Johnson has reviewed each decision overturned by VAR since 2019/20, with Liverpool benefiting more than all but one club. Brighton are top of the leaderboard when it comes to overturns for and against, with +8, while Liverpool are second with +5. That means that the Reds have seen five more VAR decisions go their way than there have been those that negatively impacted them. Aston Villa (+4), Man City (+4), Man United (+3), Newcastle (+3), Everton (+2) and Crystal Palace (+2) are the other clubs deemed to have been positively affected. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Wolves (-18) are out in the distance when it comes to the net score of overturns for and against them. However, in the season just gone, no club was seen to have been worse-affected by VAR than Liverpool, with the Premier League‘s KMI Panel – comprised of former players and coaches – determining mistakes made. Liverpool are claimed to have seen four VAR mistakes go against them and none in their favour, those mistakes being: The flaw in this system, of course, is that it is still highly subjective – with one notable omission being Jeremy Doku’s high boot on Mac Allister in the 1-1 draw with Man City on March 10. Johnson’s data also looks into “situations that the KMI Panel deemed to be a refereeing error, but not sufficient to be classed as ‘clear and obvious’ for a VAR intervention.” Those are labelled referee mistakes, which surprisingly Liverpool are deemed to have benefitted more from than any other club in 2023/24. Liverpool saw one official referee mistake go against them – Diogo Jota‘s second yellow card vs. Tottenham (September 30) – and six in their favour. The KMI Panel determined that penalties for Jota vs. Newcastle (January 1) and Dominik Szoboszlai vs. Bournemouth (August 19) should not have been awarded, while Ibrahima Konate should have been shown a second yellow vs. Everton (October 21). Of course, this is unlikely to change how VAR is viewed among Liverpool fans – and it is questionable whether it really should do. Every situation remains subjective, whether the opinion of officials on a matchday or ex-pros on the KMI Panel, and therefore it can never be cut and dried.

3 News of Xavi Hernandez’s sacking as manager of Barcelona yesterday has thrown yet another cat among the pigeons in the race to become Manchester United’s next manager in the summer. As Manchester United head to Wembley for the FA Cup final against Manchester City this afternoon, all focus is on the future of current manager, Erik ten Hag. Since Thursday there have been numerous reports from top journalists claiming the decision has already been made by new owners INEOS to sack the manager regardless of today’s result. Several top coaches have been linked to the hotseat such as Thomas Tuchel and Kieran McKenna. It was looking like a two-horse race for the job, although England manager Gareth Southgate, former Chelsea boss Graham Potter and Brentford manager Thomas Frank are also on the shortlist according to different reports. However, Barcelona legend Xavi was sacked yesterday and his name was inevitably linked with the soon-to-be-vacant role. Football365 cite reports from Spain saying that already, United have made contact with Xavi. The Red Devils are said to be “interested” in bringing the Spaniard to the Premier League and it has been “leaked” that “his name is on the list of possible replacements”. This follows reports from earlier in the week that Mauricio Pochettino has also been added to the shortlist having parted company with Chelsea. However, the outlet insists that there is one favourite for the job and that both Xavi and Pochettino will just be backup options. “Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, who has just left Bayern Munich, is the manager who ‘convinces the board much more’,” Football365 claims. This supports reports this morning from Germany stating that Bayern Munich are convinced Tuchel already has an agreement with United that he will be their next manager, although yesterday also saw a report saying United had their doubts about the German. Meanwhile, Ten Hag has said in an interview that INEOS have told him they plan to go forward with him as the plot thickens more quickly than a badly written 1980s soap opera. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

This wrap of the latest PSL transfer rumours will get you up to speed on the buzz surrounding clubs like Kaizer Chiefs, Sundowns, Pirates and more. The latest PSL transfer rumours Catch up on all the latest PSL transfer rumours on the pages of The South African and elsewhere. Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! Orlando Pirates ready to show 12 players the door! Orlando Pirates are preparing a major clearout. The dead wood comprises a dozen players. Kaizer Chiefs lead Pirates and Sundowns for top striker target Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are believed to be going head to head for a number of transfer targets. It seems Chiefs have the inside track on this one. Sundowns to challenge Kaizer Chiefs for Percy Tau? Kaizer Chiefs have recently expressed an interest in Al Ahly attacker Percy Tau, with the possibility of signing him. Tau has one more year left on his deal with Al Ahly, and Chiefs are believed to be watching closely but Sundowns are in the mix too. Orlando Pirates to challenge Kaizer Chiefs for Bafana Bafana star? Kaizer Chiefs could be joined by rivals Orlando Pirates as both clubs weigh up the free signing of a Bafana Bafana star. Who will win this Soweto derby in the transfer window? Chiefs target and Pirates fan now dreaming of Sundowns move? Kaizer Chiefs have been dealt a crushing blow, with a transfer target who supports Orlando Pirates, dreaming of Mamelodi Sundowns deal. This has all happened through Sundowns’ achievements on the pitch, while Chiefs and Pirates have declined. Kaizer Chiefs fan favourite makes decision on his future A Kaizer Chiefs fan favourite who has been linked with an exit from the club has now made a decision on his future. This could change things. Has Andile Jali finally found a new club? Andile Jali’s agent Mike Makaab has opened up on rumours that the former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns star could have a new team. What’s up with Jali? Bafana star urged to reject Sundowns for move overseas Stellenbosch FC believe big three target Jayden Adams would be better suited heading to Europe amid rumours that he will join Sundowns. Stellies have been a selling club in recent seasons, but coach Steve Barker has suggested the price will need to be right for them to let go of Adams. ‘Orlando Pirates must sign Stellenbosch striker’ Orlando Pirates must sign Stellenbosch FC striker Iqraam Rayners. A Sea Robbers icon has explained the reasons why. Chiefs and Pirates set for epic transfer duel for African star Kaizer Chiefs and fellow Soweto rivals Orlando Pirates are both reportedly interested in signing an African star. The two Soweto clubs are expected to challenge Mamelodi Sundowns in the DStv Premiership next season. Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates get HUGE transfer boost! Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates have been given a huge lifeline in the race for a top target. An overseas side has pulled out of the race. Mamelodi Sundowns turn attention to Kaizer Chiefs striker target Kaizer Chiefs could be about to feel the financial might of Mamelodi Sundowns. The Brazilians are now keen to sign Chiefs’ main striker target. Orlando Pirates flop set for homecoming? An Orlando Pirates could yet see his contract terminated by the club at the end of the season. However, a move back home is mooted. Kaizer Chiefs to sign three players with 16 goals? Kaizer Chiefs have had another disappointing season. The pressure is on to sign higher quality players for next season. Transfer target looking beyond Kaizer Chiefs? Kaizer Chiefs could be set to miss out on a top defensive target. The player is looking to greener pastures. Kaizer Chiefs close in on Itumeleng Khune replacement for free Kaizer Chiefs could be about to save R30 million in a smart piece of business geared towards replacing the outgoing Itumeleng Khune. A free agent presents himself. Sundowns set to offload Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates target Sundowns are ready to offload a Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates target next season. There is a catch though. Former Mamelodi Sundowns star joining Kaizer Chiefs? Is a former Mamelodi Sundowns star joining Kaizer Chiefs? Well news has emerged that has set the record straight. Monnapule Saleng makes decision on Orlando Pirates future Monnapule Saleng was rumoured to be ready to request a transfer after a lack of game time at Orlando Pirates. However, what’s the latest on the star? ‘We’ll sign a goalkeeper, but not Itumeleng Khune’ One club has shaded Itumeleng Khune and delivered a transfer update. Not sure that was necessary. Kaizer Chiefs suffer crushing Percy Tau blow! Kaizer Chiefs are thought to be intent on making Percy Tau one of their statement signings for next season but that dream may already be over. The Khosi nation won’t like this. Orlando Pirates complete first MAJOR signing Orlando Pirates have reportedly completed their first MAJOR signing ahead of the start of the new season in the form of Thalente Mbatha. Mbatha is currently on loan at Pirates from SupeSport United but the Soweto giants had negotiated an option to make the deal permanent. Sead Ramovic is hot property but one PSL club not among suitors Sead Ramovic has become hot property attracting attention from all over the league. But one PSL club has not shown interest despite reports. Forgotten striker to return to the Cape? Orlando Pirates are working on refreshing their squad for the new season and there’s one player they may lose to Cape Town City. It seems the hitman longs for life in the Cape. Stellies to slap R40 million price tag on Sundowns’ target? Stellenbosch FC are holding out for a big offer for big three target Jayden Adams amid rumours that he will head to Sundowns. While Stellies have been a selling club in recent seasons, coach Steve Barker has suggested the price will need to be right for them to let go of Adams. Kaizer Chiefs to table new deal for star amid overseas interest! Kaizer Chiefs are believed to be ready to tie down one of their key defenders to a new deal. Chiefs are ready to make some changes to their playing staff next season. All the Kaizer Chiefs transfer targets Get a wrap of every player linked to Kaizer Chiefs. Here are all their targets. Kaizer Chiefs, Pirates and Sundowns all chase new Bafana star Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Sundowns will battle to sign one of the most exciting talents in the county this winter. Which club will win the race? CHIEFS TARGET BAFANA BAFANA TRIO Kaizer Chiefs are serious about bringing in top talent with a total of THREE Bafana Bafana attackers currently on their transfer shopping list. Can they get any of these men to sign on the dotted line? Kaizer Chiefs battle Al Ahly to bring home Soweto-born star! Kaizer Chiefs are believed to be battling Al Ahly in an effort to bring home Bafana Bafana star Luther Singh. Chiefs are believed to be ready to make some big statements to kick off a new era at the club. Unhappy Orlando Pirates star to hand in transfer request? An Orlando Pirates star is reportedly pushing for an exit at the club. This comes following a massively underwhelming 2023/24 DStv Premiership campaign. Pitso Mosimane to Kaizer Chiefs latest Pitso Mosimane to Kaizer Chiefs is looking more likely than it ever has with Amakhosi management presented with a chance to kill to birds with one stone. Mosimane contract is set to expire next month with Cavin Johnson on his way out of Naturena. Teams queue to sign player as Orlando Pirates exit draws near Orlando Pirates look set to lose a capped international. There is a growing queue of clubs trying to sign the star. More interest from Europe and MLS for Orlando Pirates star It is now becoming an almost impossible task for Orlando Pirates to keep one of their superstars as more overseas interest pours in. Where will he end up? Percy Tau to return to PSL? Kaizer Chiefs have reportedly reignited their interest in Bafana Bafana and Al Ahly star Percy Tau. The Glamour Boys endured another massively underwhelming season this campaign. Sundowns have deadline day set to extend February’s contract According to February’s agent Mike Makaab, Sundowns have until the end of May to take up that option. Mamelodi Sundowns have a deadline set to trigger an option on Jody February’s contract as his current deal is set to expire on 30 June. TS Galaxy make important decision on ex-Chiefs scoring machine TS Galaxy have made an important decision on the future of former Kaizer Chiefs goal-scoring machine Samir Nurkovic. Nurkovic will stay at TS Galaxy beyond the current season after the club triggered an option they had on his contract. R30 million Orlando Pirates target dreams of Kaizer Chiefs move Orlando Pirates fans look away! A top target of the Sea Robbers wants to move to Kaizer Chiefs. Kaizer Chiefs’ R40 million man wants out Kaizer Chiefs look set to lose a star player. Despite a R40 million price tag he is a wanted man. Al Ahly make HUGE Percy Tau transfer decision There seems to be more and more uncertainty with regards to Percy Tau’s Al Ahly future.  Every week there seems to be a twist in Tau’s negotiations for a contract extension at Al Ahly.  SuperSport United to propose swap deal with Orlando Pirates? SuperSport United are believed to have no problem losing one of their key players to Orlando Pirates, but they want one player in return! Find out more. Contract renewal talks for Sundowns star turn ugly! There seems to be yet another fresh twist with regards contract negotiations between Mamelodi Sundowns and Teboho Mokoena. Interest in the star man is high following his AFCON exploits. Stellenbosch keen on signing Bafana Bafana and Pirates star Stellenbosch FC are reportedly plotting a move for an Orlando Pirates midfielder. They are an ambitious club. Oswin Appollis putting Kaizer Chiefs interest out of his mind Oswin App...

After it emerged that Liverpool are advertising for a set-piece coach to add to Arne Slot‘s staff, two more positions have been posted via LinkedIn. With Jurgen Klopp‘s resignation followed by an exodus of the manager’s first-team staff, it is a summer of upheaval at the AXA Training Centre. That will include the appointment of a specialist set-piece coach, with the club advertising for a new role to support the arriving Slot, with Klopp’s assistant, Peter Krawietz, previously filling that duty. • READ: Why Liverpool want to hire a set-piece coach – to join Arsenal and Man City Liverpool have continued their recruitment drive with two more job adverts, as they aim to appoint a new strength and conditioning coach along with a first-team physio. The arrival of another strength and conditioning coach comes as part of a revamp of the fitness department, with Dr Andreas Schlumberger and Andreas Kornmayer among those to depart. Schlumberger held the position of head of recovery and performance and Kornmayer served as head of fitness and conditioning. The club’s job description explains that a successful candidate would operate “under the management of the head of physical performance.” Slot is expected to bring at least three coaches with him from Feyenoord, with one of those being Ruben Peeters, who held the role of head of performance with the Dutch club and could replicate that at Liverpool. Meanwhile, the search for a new physio could suggest that there are more changes to the department than currently reported. Liverpool count Lee Nobes as head of physiotherapy while Chris Morgan and Steve Lilley are first-team physios and Joe Lewis a general physio. Whether any of those figures will leave the club this summer remains to be seen, but it is clear that Liverpool are looking to overhaul their structure off the pitch. Part of that could be dictated by the arrival of Slot, who has been commended for his approach to maintaining the fitness of his players at Feyenoord.

Orlando Pirates are already planning for the next season, with both incomings and outgoings in focus. Pirates made a number of signings during the off-season, as well as the January transfer window.  Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! They signed  Melusi Buthelezi from TS Galaxy, Siphelo Baloni from All Stars FC and Katlego Otladisa from Marumo Gallants. They were joined by Karim Kimvuidi, Lesedi Kapinga and Patrick Maswanganyi. Then, in January, Pirates added the duo of Thabiso Lebitso and Thalenthe Mbatha. In January, stalwart Thembinkosi Lorch and Bienvenu Eva Nga both left the club for Mamelodi Sundowns and Chippa United respectfully.  Those players are expected to be followed out of the exit door by a few more in the coming window. The likes of Zakhele Lepasa, Souaibou Marou, and Sandile Mthethwa are among those touted for a Pirates exit. Now according to Soccer-Laduma, Pirates are ready to release and sell up to 12 members of their senior side! Pirates to release 12? “The people in the office are working hard on that list of players who will be leaving the team. It’s not an easy one but there will be an overhaul at the end of the season. Most of the players whose contracts are coming to an end won’t be renewed as the club is looking at bringing in new blood as well. As far as I am concerned most of those whose contracts were reviewed last season for one season won’t be staying. It will be like a total clear out.” Said the source to the publication. The publication then goes on to state those 12 players who are primed for a Pirates exit! Fan favourites too? “Among those rumoured to be on the exit list are goalkeepers Richard Ofori and Siyabonga Mpontshane, defenders Bandile Shandu, Bongani Sam, and Sandile Mthethwa, as well as midfielders Vincent Pule, Monnapule Saleng, Thabang Monare, Fortune Makaringe, and Deon Hotto. Strikers Kermit Erasmus and Cameroonian Souaibou Marou are also mentioned as potential departures.”  It remains to be seen if these players all leave Pirates at the end of the season.

Kaizer Chiefs interim coach Cavin Johnson wants to end the season on a high after yet another disappointing season for the Glamour Boys. The 65-year-old was named coach in October after the club parted ways with Molefi Ntseki. Johnson was in charge of Amakhosi’s youth programme before he was elevated to caretaker coach. The ex-Platinum Stars coach started his tenure on a high and appeared to have taken Chiefs in the right direction. Kaizer Chiefs coach Cavin Johnson to end season a high? The second half of the season was tough for Johnson, with Kaizer Chiefs managing just two wins. “It’s been three games now since we won a game,” said the Kaizer Chiefs coach ahead of Saturday’s final match. “And that’s what our people want: They want us to score goals and win games. “We are not doing that at the moment, and hopefully in Cape Town where we have a good following, we’ll score goals and end the season on a very high note.” Kaizer Chiefs are on a mission to find a coach to replace Johnson for next season. Amakhosi have struggled to attract supporters to stadiums in the past few seasons and it was evident during Itumeleng Khune’s farewell match. Johnson believes fans will start flocking to the stadiums once the club starts winning games. “The reignition (between the team and the fans) will happen in due course,” said Kaizer Chiefs coach Cavin Johnson. “It’s been three games now since we won a game. And that’s what our people want: They want us to score goals and win games. Amakhosi battle for top 8 finish “We are not doing that at the moment, and hopefully in Cape Town where we have a good following, we’ll score goals and end the season on a very high note,” Johnson said as per IOL. Chiefs are expected to retain the former SuperSport coach for next season. The 65-year-old is likely to return to development but if the new coach finds it hard to get going, Kaizer Chiefs might recall Johnson. Amakhosi play Cape Town City on Saturday afternoon needing a win to finish in the top eight. Johnson is not the only coach leaving his post at Kaizer Chiefs. Dillon Sheppard, who serves as an assistant, might make way for the new coach for next season. It is widely speculated that the new coach would want to bring their own technical team.

Sphelele Mkhulise, Rivaldo Coetzee and Grant Kekana have been outstanding this season. As the curtain comes down on the 2023/24 DStv Premiership season, a lot will be said about Mamelodi Sundowns’ title winning run and how they are a class above the rest. ALSO READ: Cape Town Spurs will not just lie down for Kaizer Chiefs Ronwen Williams is deservedly getting the recognition he deserves for his incredible performance in goal for the Brazilians. Keeping 15 clean sheets and conceding only seven goals in 21 league appearances is unbelievable. Lucas Ribeiro and Teboho Mokoena have also earned plaudits for their contribution to what has been an impeccable season for Sundowns so far. Every team that does well has unsung heroes and Bafana ba Style are no different. These are players who go on quietly about their business but play a crucial role in the team’s success whenever they are called upon and you can rely upon them under any circumstance. In my opinion, the trio of Sphelele Mkhulise, Rivaldo Coetzee and Grant Kekana have been outstanding this season and deserve a lot of praise for their efforts. The Yellow Machine wouldn’t have functioned without them. I liken Mkhulise to Italian legend Andrea Pirlo who was a magician with the ball at his feet. The only difference is that the Sundowns academy product doesn’t score much but he can play in any position on the pitch. It’s hard to find a player who is so comfortable on the ball. Not only does he possess that quality, the creative midfielder is also press resistant. I often joke around that it would be hard to get the ball off Mkhulise even if you were playing inside a phone booth because of his excellent close control. In Mkhulise, the Tshwane giants have a secret weapon. When the focus is on players such as Themba Zwane and Ribeiro, the 28-year-old makes the team tick. Coetzee has probably been Sundowns’ important player. He can play in different positions and covers a lot of ground. He offers the defence so much cover and his reading of the game is second to none in the PSL. His passing range is something that is rare in the domestic game. He can pass with either foot whether short or long. For a defensive midfielder, his passing game is progressive. He doesn’t keep it safe by playing backward and sideways. It’s surprising that Coetzee hasn’t earned a recall to the Bafana Bafana set-up under Hugo Broos. He’s often compared to Barcelona and Argentina legend Javier Mascherano and it’s hard to argue with that praise. ALSO READ: Mokwena gives cryptic answer on Sundowns interest in Adams Kekana is another example of what has been good about Sundowns this season. He can play at both centreback and fightback. The former AmaTuks has also chipped in with crucial goals this season. He’s also cool under pressure when the team plays out from the back. Kekana is also a popular figure within the Downs change room. Kekana reminds me of Jerome Boateng at the peak of his powers while on the books of German super club Bayern Munich.

1 The rumour mill is abuzz with the possibility of Thomas Tuchel taking over at Manchester United. The FC Bayern board members are reportedly convinced that Tuchel’s reluctance to continue negotiations for a new contract with the Munich club is a clear indication of his impending move to Old Trafford. As the situation develops, fans of both clubs will be eagerly awaiting official confirmations. The German took over at Bayern in March 2023 and has had an underwhelming stint in the Bundesliga. Bayern failed to win the league for the first time in 11 years. His tenure has been criticised by many, mainly due to his stubborn tactics and overall character. Tuchel, however, is known to be a serial winner, famously guiding Chelsea to the Champions League title in his first season in charge in 2021. His experience at the top level could give him the edge over other managerial candidates like Kieran McKenna and Thomas Frank, both of whom haven’t managed a team of the stature of United. INEOS would also look at his days at Mainz and Borussia Dortmund which highlighted a completely different side of him. Those teams played an attractive brand of football, also focussing on developing youngsters. It is to be seen whether he goes back to his previous approach. As per previous reports, United are looking to sack Erik ten Hag after the FA Cup final irrespective of the result.     Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

Thousands of Orlando Pirates supporters will flock to the Orlando Stadium today, but millions more will be watching the match against SuperSport United on television. DSTV PREMIERSHIP: ORLANDO PIRATES VS SUPERSPORT UNITED Today’s television plans have been changed. According to DStv’s Guide, the game will be live on channel 208, rather than 202. To finish second and qualify for next season’s CAF Champions League, the Sea Robbers will have to grab maximum points, while also hoping Richards Bay FC will defeat or hold Stellenbosch FC to a draw. ORLANDO PIRATES TO MISS TAPELO XOKI AND NKOSINATHI SIBISI The mighty Sea Robbers are one match away from next season’s CAF Champions League competition. SuperSport United could destroy that dream, especially with two key defenders missing for Jose Riveiro’s Orlando Pirates on Saturday at 15:00 in Soweto. However, experienced midfielder Miguel Timm is back to full fitness. “Pirates meanwhile have suffered some significant blows in defence with Tapelo Xoki’s injury forcing him out of the remainder of the season, while Nkosinathi Sibisi is suspended for one match after he was cautioned in Mbombela,” the Soweto giants confirmed. Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! “They could be boosted in midfield as Miguel Timm nears a return to action after picking up a minor knock in the lead up to the trip to Mpumalanga,” the club added. IQRAAM RAYNERS PLEA As always, Orlando Pirates are anticipated to make new signings for next season. Andries Sebola wants Iqraam Rayners from Stellenbosch FC to be one of the names. According to Sebola, there are not many top players available in the market, but Rayners should be going to Orlando Pirates next season. The 28-year-old striker from Mitchells Plain, Cape Town has 16 goals and eight assists in all competitions this season. Rayners was further crowned as his club’s Player of the Season, Top Goalscorer and Fans’ Player of the Season. “I still believe that Pirates need to go outside the county [to scout for players] because most of the quality players are at Sundowns. So, looking at [Iqraam] Rayners, if they can convince Stellies to bring him on board, it will be good,” the former Orlando Pirates striker said via FARPost. “Even though we know some coastal players, when they come to Gauteng, they struggle. He came to SuperSport United and he didn’t do well, then he went back to Stellenbosch and did well. “So the striking force is where Orlando Pirates needs to reinforce, and also at the back. Those are the positions they need to reinforce. “In the midfield, they have Miguel Timm and Thabang Monare, Thalente Mbatha and Patrick Maswanganyi, but I still feel they need one player in the midfield. “And at the back they need two players, in the wings I think they have enough players, so I would say get two players upfront, two in the midfield and two at the back so they can compete in the league and on the continent,” the Orlando Pirates legend concluded.

1 Manchester United have a glorious history in the FA Cup. If the Red Devils manage to win today, it will be their 13th triumph and only Arsenal will have more cups, as they sit on 14. United won the famous old trophy for the first time in the 1908/09 season when they beat Bristol City 1-0 and have not looked back since. However, the last few years have not been so kind to the side from Old Trafford as they have lost four out of their previous five cup finals, dating back to 2004. Nonetheless, despite the recent heartbreak, United fans have been spoiled with FA Cup memories over the years and this is a countdown to the club’s five best finals. 5) Manchester United 1-0 Liverpool 1996 A cup final victory against your bitter rivals is always sweet, however in reality this game was quite a drab affair. The match is usually remembered for Liverpool turning up in questionable all-white suits more than what happened on the pitch. However, United would seize the initiative in the 85th minute when David James came out to punch a corner away and Eric Cantona fired through a maze of players to nestle the ball into the net and send United fans into raptures. It was a special moment for the Frenchman has he had been unable to play in the previous year’s final loss to Everton as he had been suspended for kicking a fan. The match was also significant for United as they won the double double. Meaning they became the first English side to win an FA Cup and league double two times. Since then, Arsenal and Manchester City have both managed to do so. 4) Manchester United 4-0 Chelsea 1994 The early 1990s is certainly one of the best times for United fans to reflect upon as the team was filled to the brim with leaders such as Bryan Robson, Roy Keane, Paul Ince and Steve Bruce to name just a few. However, that side also had the finesse of Eric Cantona, Ryan Giggs and Andrei Kanchelskis. The match itself was significantly more competitive than it looks as both sides were tied at 0-0 at the hour mark. However, two quickfire penalties by Eric Cantona were followed up a Mark Hughes strike to blitz the West Londoners with three goals in eight minutes. Brian McClair added a late fourth and United were on their way to pick up the club’s first ever Premier League and FA Cup double. 3) Manchester United 2-1 Liverpool 1977 This final is perhaps a strange choice as the late 70s was hardly a golden era for the Red Devils trophy wise. Whilst the aforementioned finals were in a decade of absolute dominance, United were very much second fiddle to their great rivals Liverpool in the 1970s. United had also suffered the embarrassment of the 1976 final, losing 0-1 to little fancied Southampton but responded in the perfect way, beating their old enemy. To factor in the size of the achievement, United had only been relegated in 1974, therefore they were playing second division football just two years before the cup final. Moreover, Liverpool had won the league and they would go on to win the European Cup 3-1 against Borussia Mönchengladbach in 1977. On the other hand, United had finished in an uninspiring sixth place. However, second half goals from Stuart Pearson and Jimmy Greenhoff were enough to give United an unexpected triumph over their all-conquering rivals. The result is also significant as it stopped Liverpool completing the treble, which leads us onto final number two. 2) Manchester United 2-0 Newcastle United 1999 Once more this final does not take its place in our list due to the quality of the game, but more what it represented. United suffered early on as the talismanic captain Roy Keane had to be subbed off, but an early goal from Teddy Sheringham just two minutes after coming onto the pitch calmed the nerves. Paul Scholes added a second in the 53rd minute and United were home and dry after completing the second leg of their famous treble. The win meant that United had won their third Premier League and FA Cup double of the decade, a feat no other team had achieved at that point. It also meant that the 98/99 squad would go down as the most cherished in the club’s history books as they grabbed a dramatic 2-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League final in Barcelona. 1) Manchester United 1-0 Crystal Palace 1990 Manchester United beating Palace in an FA Cup final is perhaps not the biggest surprise or achievement. Especially when it is considered that this was a replay after already drawing the first match 3-3. In fact, they only managed to get a replay thanks to a late second half of extra time goal by Mark Hughes. The replay itself was won by a single goal by defender Lee Martin. This United team was also far from vintage as they finished 13th in the old first division and also coincidentally had a negative goal difference of minus one, just like this season’s team. However, the final victory deserves to be number one because it was the catalyst of what would come after. Had the Red Devils lost the final, it would have been three and a half years without a trophy for Sir Alex Ferguson and many people believe he could well have been sacked and the two decades of dominance United fans enjoyed thereafter, may never have occurred. Ferguson would go on to win the European Cup Winner’s cup in 1991, the League Cup in 1992 and most crucially of all, the Premier League title in 1993 and the club’s first league in 26 years. The rest as they say, is history. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

It’s finally matchday 30 of the 2023/24 DStv Premiership season. Kaizer Chiefs are visiting Cape Town Spurs at the DHL Stadium. DSTV PREMIERSHIP: CAPE TOWN SPURS VS KAIZER CHIEFS According to DStv’s Guide, the match will not be televised on the usual channel of SuperSport 202. Instead the match will be aired on channel 208. Kaizer Chiefs will be fighting for victory to secure a top eight position. The Soweto giants are curently in position eight with 36 points, but five clubs could possibly overtake Amakhosi. Should Kaizer Chiefs draw or lose, wins for the likes of AmaZulu, Polokwane City, Golden Arrows and Chippa United will mean disaster for Amakhosi. SIX PLAYERS RULED OUT AGAINST CAPE TOWN SPURS In the build up to the match, Amakhosi have confirmed that one midfielder, two defenders and three forwards will not be part of the Kaizer Chiefs travelling squad to Cape Town this weekend. Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! “There have been no recoveries insofar as injuries are concerned for [Kaizer] Chiefs,” the club reported. “Players such as George Matlou, Keagan Dolly, Reeve Frosler, Dillan Solomons and Tebogo Potsane are still nursing an assortment of ailments. Defender, Edmilson Dove, will also miss his third game in a row after he picked up his second red card of the season against TS Galaxy two weeks ago,” Kaizer Chiefs concluded. Meanwhile, a possible failure to beat the Urban Warriors will give the likes of AmaZulu, Golden Arrows and Polokwane City an opportunity to sneak into the top eight. GOALKEEPER CHASE In other news, Amakhosi are reportedly battling Orlando Pirates for the signature of a top goalkeeper from Premeiro de Agosto of Angola. the club known as Amakhosi have been linked with the likes of Stanley Nwabali from Chippa United, and Salim Magoola from Richards Bay FC. Over at Orlando Pirates, Mpontshane and Ofori are facing the end of contracts on 30 June. According to newest reports, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates have cast an eye towards an Angolan international: Neblu from Premeiro de Agosto. “I can confirm that Adilson Cipriano da Cruz, who is also known as Neblu, has triggered interest in the PSL,” a source told Soccer Laduma. “The player’s handlers are currently in talks with at least three teams at the moment, and yes, they are big clubs in the league. Neblu is a top goalkeeper and at 30 years old he has reached maturity. He has been in the international team of Angola since 2012, either the A-Team or the CHAN side that he has captained for many years. His top performances at the recent AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire were proof of his remarkable progress although his impressive workd was overshadowed by his red card against Namibia. Neblu was also available to offer himself: “I am ready for any good offers and I would like to play in South Africa,” he said. Should Kaizer Chiefs or Orlando Pirates sign the Angolan? Let us know in the comments section below.

Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are believed to be going head to head for a number of transfer targets. Chiefs and Pirates are both known for wanting to boost their respective squads with the best quality available.  Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! It is believed that, this time around it will be no different between the two Soweto giants. This, of course, will inevitably see them clash for certain targets. According to reports they’re already clashing for Stanley Nwabali, Oswin Appollis, Elias Mokwana, Riaan Hanamub and Shaune Mogaila. That does not seem to be where the list ends, however, with a new name set to be part of the tug-of-war.  Pirates were leading Sundowns for Boyeli Chiefs are interested in signing Ivorian striker Freddy Michael Kouablan. The hitman currently turns out for Tanzanian giants Simba SC, and was first the subject of interest from Pirates. It now looks as if, the player might have the luxury of choosing which side of Soweto he wants to play for.  But it seems like he won’t be the only. According to Rwandan writer Eric Ndagijimana Chiefs are close to beating both Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns to Andy Boyeli.  Chiefs now closing in on the DRC star “Kaizer Chiefs are closing in on the signing of Congolese striker Andy Boyeli from Power Dynamos. Chiefs are said to have moved ahead of rivals Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns to sign Boyeli at the current end of the season.Boyeli has missed Power’s last two fixtures to fuel rumours of his potential exit from the club.His contract at Power runs up-to June, 2025.” Wrote Ndagijimana wrote on his X account.  Initially it was Pirates and Sundowns who were battling it out for Boyeli. It quickly emerged that the Buccaneers were ahead in the race. Now that Chiefs have entered almost out of nowhere, it remains to be seen if they can beat both their rivals to his signature.

1 Xavi Hernandez has emerged as a possible candidate to take over from Erik ten Hag in the summer. The lead-up to Manchester United’s FA Cup final against Manchester City later this afternoon has been overshadowed by constant speculation over the future of the current coach. The Dutchman has had a nightmarish second season at the helm, which has seen United finish eighth in the Premier League and they somehow ended up bottom of a rather friendly looking Champions League group with Galatasaray and Copenhagen both present. This has resulted in Ten Hag’s future coming under constant speculation and there was a flood of news yesterday on the eve of the cup final, suggesting that the decision has already been taken by new owners INEOS to sack the manager irrespective of today’s result. As a consequence, a variety of managers have been linked to the hotseat such as Thomas Tuchel, Mauricio Pochettino and Kieran McKenna. All three managers are said to be enthusiastic about the prospect and the first two are currently unattached as they have both left their respective clubs in the last week. However, another manager who has just lost his job, is said to be attractive proposition for INEOS. Barcelona legend Xavi was sacked yesterday and is available for hire should a club be interested in his services. It was reported here that United had shown interest in the manager before his U-turn to stay at Barcelona but now that he has officially gone, they could reignite their interest. El Nacional) report that “Manchester Utd have made contact with Xavi.” The Red Devils are said to be “interested” in bringing the Spaniard to the Premier League and it has been “leaked” that “his name is on the list of possible replacements” for Ten Hag but it is claimed that he is “not the first option at Old Trafford.” That honour goes to Thomas Tuchel, according to the outlet. The Catalan would be a risky but intriguing choice. He does not have the experience of a Tuchel or Pochettino but he has won a league title in Spain and would be instantly respected by this generation of players who will have grown up marvelling at the midfield magician. He has been described as having “faith in attacking football which is underpinned by the belief that the longer a team has possession, the closer to victory it will remain, but he also respects other approaches and has demonstrated an understanding that, during matches, his team needs to be able to adapt.” In addition, there are few if any clubs with the pressure of Barcelona, so he would probably be unfazed by what he would experience at Old Trafford. Moreover, he has had to operate under significant financial restriction at his former side, so in theory, a move to United would allow him to purchase more of his own type of players rather than seeing what is available in the bargain bin of free transfers. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.

“In the big clubs like United and City, when you don’t win you are always in trouble,” Guardiola said Pep Guardiola says he has “huge respect” for Erik ten Hag after a terrible season for Manchester United as the Manchester City boss eyes more history in Saturday’s FA Cup final. ALSO READ: Ten Hag faces Man United judgement day as Man City eye history City are celebrating an unprecedented fourth straight English top-flight crown and will become the first team to win the league and FA Cup in successive seasons if they beat United at Wembley. Guardiola’s men will start as hot favourites against United, who have lost six out of their past seven meetings in all competitions against their fierce rivals and finished a lowly eighth in the Premier League. Ten Hag is fighting to avoid the sack after United’s woeful campaign, with England coach Gareth Southgate and Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna among a host of managers linked with the Old Trafford job in recent weeks. But Guardiola has sympathy for Ten Hag after his second season in charge was marred by injuries to a host of key players. “In the big clubs like United and City, when you don’t win you are always in trouble. That’s not a secret,” Guardiola said at his pre-match press conference on Friday. “I have a huge respect for his job in the past, and now in United. I completely agree when I listen to him say they have not had a full squad — lots of injuries. “They have a lot of problems and when that happens the manager suffers a lot because the squad is really good. The problem when you are injured you cannot use them and this (is) a big, big disadvantage.” Guardiola said despite his team’s recent impressive record against United, he would not take them lightly in a repeat of the FA Cup final won 2-1 by City last season. “United is always United,” he said. “Of course in the Premier League, we have been better than them, we are more consistent than them. “But one game, especially United this season against top six, important games, (they) always perform well so we spoke, the players feel it, the players know it — that will be a completely different game.” – ‘The last effort’ – Guardiola said the chance to win more silverware was enough motivation for him, regardless of the opportunity to make history by winning another double. “We are happy, satisfied, but what’s next? Next is this challenge? OK, go for it with all we have and we will see what happens,” he said. “I want to be beaten because they were better, not because we were not who we are. We spoke for many, many years about this subject, so respect the opponents but focus on our performance, who we are — this is the most important. “Players know it’s the last game of the season, the last effort. I’m impressed with how well we’ve trained these three days after a few days off.” City captain Kyle Walker echoed Guardiola’s belief that the holders are determined to ensure United don’t deny them a second straight double. But Walker knows United, still smarting after seeing their 1999 treble emulated by City last season, will have a point to prove. ALSO READ: Barcelona sack coach Xavi after trophyless season “The motivation speaks for itself, to be the first team to do the double double. We’re the first team to win four in a row, the first team since Manchester United to do the treble,” he said. “We keep knocking down these hurdles and this is another that we need to knock down. “But it’s against our rivals who live in the same city and are going to want to rain on our parade.”

“It has been an amazing season, especially in the league,” Williams said. Mamelodi Sundowns players have ducked questions about their unbeaten run this season, insisting they are taking it one game at a time. ALSO READ: Three things to look out for on the final day of the DStv Premiership There’s nowhere to run now as they are left with one game to play in order to make history. All they need to do is avoid defeat against Cape Town City in the last round of DStv Premiership matches at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.  Ronwen Williams believes the invincible tag would be a reward for their hard work for what has been a grueling season. “It has been an amazing season, especially in the league. We’ve been nothing short of great. We’ve been amazing throughout the season and our consistency has been key,” he said. “Our relentlessness, brotherhood and fighting spirit. This game has so many things to it. If we avoid defeat then we will be the first team to get the invincible tag in South Africa and that will be massive. “I think we fully deserve it for the hard work throughout the season. It will be a perfect end to the season with a win in front of Masandawana. They have been amazing for us throughout the season. We would like them to come in numbers to show appreciation for the work that we have put in. Sundowns captain Themba Zwane echoed his teammate’s thoughts ahead of the intriguing clash against City who will be hoping the spoil the party in Tshwane. “It’s still an important game and it’s a game we need to win. If we win then we will make history in the league so it’s very important for us to go all out,” said Zwane. “It will be a difficult game because Cape Town City are also a good team and they play good football. It will be an exciting game to watch.” ALSO READ: Pirates’ Maswanganyi misses out on Footballer of the Season The Citizens have already secured their place in the top eight even if they come out second best against Sundowns. They come into the game on the back of a 3-1 win over Richards Bay. The champions will be without Sphelele Mkhulise and Marcelo Allende through suspension while City will miss Marc van Heerden and Aprocius Petrus.

Kaizer Chiefs have recently expressed an interest in Al Ahly attacker Percy Tau, with the possibility of signing him. Tau has one more year left on his deal with Al Ahly, and Chiefs are believed to be watching closely. Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! The Bafana Bafana international was in scintillating form for Al Ahly prior to the 2023 Afcon in Ivory Coast. He ended the 2022/23 season with 17 goal contributions in 42 games. That saw his name linked with overseas interest once again. A promising start to the season saw Tau get six goals but he seems to have stagnated on them, with no assists. His form from the previous seemed to be the driving point for contract extension talks. Chiefs interested in Tau This new contract was set to make Tau the most paid player on the African continent. According to Egyptian reports, it would’ve been a three-year deal. That would’ve have seen the 29-year-old earning R23 million annually. It would then increase by R1.9 million in the first year. Then R2.8 million in the second and then R3.8 million in the final year. That would’ve seen the attacker spend the rest of his prime years at Al Ahly.  According to the last report, Al Ahly had backtracked on that offer, opting to cash in on the player instead. It was believed that the club went back to the drawing board and decided to continue with a new contract for Tau. But on revised terms which were not as lucrative. This publication then reported that the Egyptian giants were ready to sell for a good price. This, seems to have also sent Chiefs into high alert.  Chiefs are believed to be monitoring the situation and are ready to bid for Tau. Now according to The Citizen, the player’s former side Mamelodi Sundowns could also be interested! Sundowns looking to enter race “With Al-Ahly forward Percy Tau’s future still not decided, don’t rule out Mamelodi Sundowns in the race for his signature. Sundowns are on the lookout for a striker as they aim for an assault on the elusive second Caf Champions League title. According to a reliable source close to the player, the possibility of bringing Tau back to Chloorkop was discussed last season but nothing materialised. The Bafana Bafana striker will not come cheap but his salary package is not expected to be a major stumbling block for the DStv Premiership champions.” Wrote publication who also note Chiefs’ involvement in the race Chiefs or Sundowns for Tau? When looking at the current state of both clubs, there seems to be one winner.

2 Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is confident of remaining in charge next season. In an exclusive interview with Voetbal International, the Dutchman claimed: ‘They (INEOS) said they want to change everything and that they want to rebuild with me. This is what they told me directly.’ More to follow.

Kaizer Chiefs were believed to be about to make a shock announcement of a local coach according to reports!  Chiefs are searching for a new coach, who will come in with his own technical staff for the new season.  Looking to buy a good quality pre-owned vehicle, click here! It’s believed Chiefs are willing to give the new coach and his staff authority to lead them in a new era. Amakhosi have not won silverware for the past nine years now and currently fighting to finish in the top eight. The risk of going a full decade without a trophy is surely giving the club’s management sleepless nights. It is for this reason that, this next coaching appointment could be undoubtedly the most significant in the clubs history.  Ramovic out Currently interim coach Cavin Johnson initially harboured ambitions of becoming the permanent coach at Chiefs. A run which saw Chiefs winning three of their last four games of 2024, saw Johnson in with a shout. But now according to the latest, the club are back looking at other candidates. There have been the likes of Pitso Mosimane and Manqoba Mngqithi in a local sense. Internationally, Jose Peseiro, Vanderlei Luxembergo , Raul Caneda Perez and Nasreddine Nabi.  Just at the start of the week, Portuguese coach Alexander Santos was regarded as the front runner for the job. But in a shock turn of events, reports suggested that TS Galaxy coach Sead Ramovic is the lead candidate.  This publication then reported on Friday that, Ramovic is not currently under consideration at Chiefs!  Now according to Soccer-Laduma, only two candidates remain for the job. Those are Mosimane and Santos. Mosimane and Santos vying for Chiefs job “To tell you the truth, there are many meetings going on now at the club (Chiefs) concerning the coaches. But the latest is that the likelihood of Pitso Mosimane and Alexandre Santos will be one of the coaches. I am telling you that the committee looking at who the coach could be has narrowed their net to these two. Here is the catch or the problem. Who will be available at the start of the seasons? Will Petro de Luanda release Santos or will Abha Club hold onto Pitso if he avoids relegation with them in Saudi Arabia? It will all boil done to availability and also affordability.” Said a source to the publication.  So Ramovic out, and Mosimane and Santos in straight shootout for the Chiefs job then?

1 One of the biggest days in the English footballing calendar has finally arrived. Millions of Manchester United fans will be waking up this morning, or have already woken up, after having dreamt of Wembley success. Not many in the media have given Erik ten Hag’s side much chance in this match, so it is up to the Red Devils to prove their worth on the biggest stage. Two of the most important people in the entire stadium this afternoon couldn’t have had more different preparation for the showpiece event if they tried. Ten Hag has just come off an horrendous season where his team have finished eighth and with a negative goal difference for the first time in Premier League history. After a relatively successful first season in charge, he made the peculiar choice to rip up the playbook and try to transform United into the world’s best transition team. An early Champions League exit before Christmas and an eighth placed finish shows how well this turned out. Consequently, there has been much speculation about the Dutchman’s future and an avalanche of news came through yesterday afternoon and evening about the beleaguered coach’s future. It has been reported that the club have already taken the decision to sack the manager regardless of the result in the final and that the coach has known this a week before the Arsenal game, so almost three weeks ago. Ten Hag has defiantly revealed in his pre-match press conference that he does not need “assurances” about his job and the BBC have reported that the club are adamant that no decision has been made, but this one really seems a case of where there is smoke, there is fire. In contrast, Manchester City’s boss, Pep Guardiola, could not be safer in his job. The Catalan won the treble last year and he has just won the Premier League for a fourth consecutive year, something not even Sir Alex Ferguson was able to do. Guardiola is widely considered the best coach in the game and some even suggest he is the best of all time, even though not many United fans would attest to this due to a certain Scotsman’s time in Manchester. Nonetheless, one of the biggest mismatches at Wembley could be between the two managers. However, there is a glimmer of hope. Erik ten Hag has had success against Manchester City before. In January 2023 in a 2-1 win at Old Trafford, United were very dangerous in the first half and despite conceding the first goal, fought back to win the game. Ten Hag outfoxed his former boss at Bayern Munich when he was able to stunt the influence of Kevin de Bruyne and largely take Erling Haaland out of the game. City managed just one shot on target in the whole encounter that crisp January day and Ten Hag will surely look to this match for inspiration. If Ten Hag opts to try and go toe-to-toe with City or turn the game into chaos, it is unlikely to end well for anyone in red. However, the last three games in the league have pointed to the fact he may consider a more compact, measured approach, which could work if the players are completely engaged in their task. In addition, Guardiola has a history of making strange choices and over-thinking cup ties. With the favourite tag weighing so heavily on them, he may feel the urge to tweak his side which has had disastrous consequences for him in the Champions League. The most clear and obvious was the example of leaving Rodri out of the Champions League final against Chelsea in 2021, which they would go on to lose 1-0 after it horribly imbalanced the side. Moreover, due to the two’s history together when Ten Hag was Bayern Munich II’s manager at the same time Guardiola was senior coach, the Dutchman knows Pep’s mindset inside out. Even in last year’s 2-1 loss in the final to the same team, whilst neither side played very well, it was a tight game and United could have taken the match to extra time only to have Scott McTominay’s late chance bounce onto the roof of the net. In other words, Ten Hag coming out on top against Pep Guardiola is unlikely but it is not impossible. If there is any day, any moment to just believe, it is on cup final day. Want to be the first to hear breaking Man United news? For carefully selected, crucial updates, join our WhatsApp channel: https://bit.ly/United-Breaking-News.