As Manchester United's new manager Erik ten Hag enters his third season, early signs indicate a challenging start for the team. With a total of eight games played, the team has only won three, marking ten Hag's worst start as manager. While the number of defeats have decreased, the number of draws have increased compared to his first two seasons. As they enter a crucial game against Twente, United will need to turn their performance around to maintain their title-contending reputation. Will they be able to overcome this uphill battle and leave with a win? Share your thoughts using #bbcfootball and follow live updates through WhatsApp or text messaging.
In an attempt to maintain their position at the top of the Premier League table, Manchester City will travel to St James' Park to take on Newcastle United. While Newcastle have had a decent start to the season with 10 points from their first four matches, their recent defeat to Fulham has highlighted the need for improvement. The Magpies were set to face AFC Wimbledon in the EFL Cup, but the game was postponed due to flooding, giving them extra rest before their challenging match against Manchester City. Newcastle have only beaten Manchester City once in their last 33 meetings, but will be hoping to cause an upset and close the gap at the top.
In an intense and closely-fought match, FC Twente managed to hold Manchester United to a 1-1 draw in the opening day of the Europa League league stage. Despite taking the lead in the second half, United were unable to maintain their advantage as the Dutch visitors fought back and secured a point. Fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive tournament as both teams showed their determination and skill on the pitch.
Danny Murphy, former Liverpool midfielder, believes that Manchester United's failure to sign a genuine goalscorer will hinder their chances of finishing in the top four this season. Despite signing Joshua Zirkzee, who does not have a prolific goalscoring record, Murphy thinks United will struggle to compete for the title or even secure a top four spot. United's start to the season has been disappointing, with only two wins in their first five games, and manager Erik ten Hag has expressed frustration with their performances.
After a successful career representing France in international football and winning numerous trophies with Real Madrid and Manchester United, Raphael Varane has announced his retirement from the sport. The 31-year-old defender was set to play for Serie A club Como but suffered an injury that has ultimately led to his decision to hang up his boots. Varane will now take on a non-playing role with Como, but he leaves with no regrets, having always stuck to his principles of sincerity and leaving every team he played for in a better state.
Manchester United kicked off their Europa League campaign with a 1-1 draw against FC Twente at Old Trafford. Despite a confident performance for an hour, United were unable to secure the win after Christian Eriksen's stunning strike was cancelled out by Sam Lammers' equalizer. Manchester United midfielder Amad Diallo was named player of the match for his impressive performance.
Reports claim that Liverpool's star full-back, Trent Alexander-Arnold, will only extend his stay at the club if his ambition is matched. The club faces the challenge of not only trying to keep Alexander-Arnold, but also captain Virgil van Dijk and star forward Mohamed Salah, who are all out of contract next summer. Meanwhile, Liverpool have joined the race for Boca Juniors' Kevin Zenon, who has also attracted interest from Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United.
Jadon Sancho's loan move from Manchester United has proven to be a success at Chelsea, with the winger recording two assists in his first two games. Pogba, his former team-mate, has been impressed by Sancho's performances and has publicly praised him on social media. The winger, who is a childhood Chelsea fan, seems to have found his form and could have a big season ahead as Chelsea look to secure him on a permanent deal.
Premier League rivals Arsenal and Manchester United are both reportedly interested in signing RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko in the upcoming January transfer window. However, the Bundesliga club is unlikely to part ways with the 21-year-old prospect before the summer, as he recently signed a contract extension and has a release clause in his contract that could be triggered in 2025. The Gunners will also have a better understanding of the player's transfer preference, having targeted him in the summer.
The new 36-team format of the Europa League kicks off tonight with a match between Manchester United and Twente. Fans can expect to see new addition, Ugarte, starting for United and Rashford returning to the team. Don't miss out on the action and join the discussion with #bbcfootball or follow the coverage through WhatsApp or text. Plus, don't forget to test your Europa League knowledge with our quiz. And, while you're at it, stay updated on the Carabao Cup matches tonight between Arsenal and Bolton and Liverpool and West Ham.