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Peter Schmeichel says it’s ‘very wrong’ to single out Man Utd star for criticism

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Peter Schmeichel has voiced his support for Andre Onana, saying it’s unfair to blame the Manchester United goalkeeper for the team’s struggles this season. Onana has endured a challenging spell at Old Trafford, marked by notable mistakes both in domestic and European competitions.

Despite these errors, Schmeichel insists the spotlight on the Cameroon international is misplaced, especially given the wider issues affecting the entire squad.

The pressure mounted on Onana after a shaky performance in the first leg of United’s Europa League quarter-final against Lyon, which led manager Ruben Amorim to bench him in favor of Altay Bayindir for the Premier League clash with Newcastle.

However, Bayindir’s costly error in that match opened the door for Onana’s return, and he has since started United’s last two games. He’s expected to remain in the lineup for their upcoming trip to Bournemouth.

Still, doubts remain over Onana’s long-term role at Manchester United. Reports suggest the club is exploring alternatives ahead of the summer transfer window, with names like Aaron Ramsdale, Diogo Costa, and Bart Verbruggen in the mix.

Schmeichel, speaking to talkSPORT before United’s match against Bournemouth, urged fans and pundits to consider the broader context of the team’s underperformance. He stressed that playing for Manchester United comes with a unique level of scrutiny, far beyond what players experience at other clubs.

He pointed out that even non-sports-focused newspapers in countries like Denmark regularly cover United’s results, underlining the global attention the club commands.

According to Schmeichel, this relentless media presence means any mistake a United player makes—especially a goalkeeper—is magnified. While errors at other Premier League clubs might make headlines for a day, a blunder at United often dominates discussion for much longer.

The former goalkeeper believes this intense pressure demands exceptional mental strength and resilience.

Reflecting on the current season, Schmeichel said it has been a tough period for everyone at the club and emphasized that singling out individual players isn’t the answer. He believes a collective approach is needed to address the team’s problems.

Looking ahead, Schmeichel sees the Europa League as a vital opportunity for Manchester United. He argues that winning the competition could significantly influence the club’s prospects in the summer transfer market.

Securing Europa League glory would not only grant Champions League qualification but also make United a more attractive destination for high-caliber players. Additionally, it would strengthen the club’s financial position, providing more flexibility in the market.

On the subject of Marcus Rashford, who has found renewed form on loan at Aston Villa, Schmeichel declined to comment on the forward’s future. Rashford is reportedly waiting until June to make a decision, hoping to play for a Champions League side next season.

Schmeichel, taking a light-hearted jab at fellow pundits, said he doesn’t need to have an opinion on everything.

Ultimately, Schmeichel’s remarks serve as a reminder of the intense spotlight that comes with representing Manchester United and a call for unity rather than criticism as the team aims to finish the season on a high.

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FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here’s why

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FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here's why

FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has taken action against the Israel Football Association (IFA) after finding breaches of its rules relating to offensive conduct, fair play, and incidents involving discrimination and racist behavior.

As part of the ruling, the IFA has been fined CHF 150,000 (around €165,000), with conditions attached. The federation is required to roll out preventive measures, including displaying a clear anti-discrimination message at its next three home matches in FIFA competitions. The message, which promotes unity and rejects discrimination, must appear alongside the federation’s emblem, with its design, size, and placement submitted to FIFA for approval at least 15 days before each fixture.

Beyond matchday requirements, the IFA must also take longer-term action. Within 60 days, it is expected to allocate one-third of the fine toward a detailed anti-discrimination initiative. This program is set to include structural improvements, defined protocols, monitoring systems, and educational campaigns across stadiums and official platforms throughout an entire season, all subject to FIFA’s approval. The remaining portion of the fine must be settled within 30 days. FIFA has also issued a formal warning regarding future conduct, with the option for the IFA to appeal the decision.

In relation to a separate complaint raised by the Palestinian Football Association concerning teams based in disputed territories, FIFA chose not to impose any measures. The governing body pointed to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the legal status of the West Bank under international law, but emphasized its willingness to encourage dialogue and mediation between both sides.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated the organization’s stance on the role of football during periods of political tension, stressing that while the sport cannot solve global conflicts, it can still play a part in bringing people together and fostering understanding through competitions like the World Cup.

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New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage (VIDEO)

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New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage

The Minas Gerais state championship final between Cruzeiro Esporte Clube and Clube Atlético Mineiro ended in chaos on Sunday, with a massive on-field brawl. Cruzeiro secured a 1-0 victory, but the match will be remembered for the violent fallout.

Reports from Brazilian media indicate that the referee issued an additional 23 red cards following the melee.

The incident that sparked the conflict occurred in the 97th minute inside Atletico’s penalty area after a collision between Christian of Cruzeiro and home goalkeeper Everson. Everson reacted aggressively, first pushing Christian and then pinning him to the ground with both knees.

Close-range footage of the altercation later surfaced online, showing the intensity of the clash and adding fuel to an already controversial derby.

This extraordinary sequence will likely result in disciplinary action from the league and raises questions about player conduct in high-stakes matches.

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Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job

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Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job

Former Brighton & Hove Albion FC boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly “keen” on becoming the next manager of Manchester United FC.

The 46-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Olympique de Marseille by mutual agreement last month. Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur FC have been linked with a summer move for the Italian as they search for a permanent head coach.

According to reports from The Telegraph, De Zerbi would favour the Old Trafford role if given the choice.

His potential appointment could be a setback for interim United boss Michael Carrick, who has largely impressed since taking charge in January.

Carrick suffered his first defeat on Wednesday as United lost to Newcastle United FC, with goals from Anthony Gordon and William Osula sealing the result.

Despite that setback, several United players are believed to support Carrick being given the role permanently. Senior figures such as Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw are reportedly impressed by his tactical ideas and deep understanding of the game.

United’s hierarchy have yet to decide whether to stick with the former England international or appoint a new manager. Other names linked with the role include Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto Martínez.

De Zerbi has also been mentioned as a potential candidate at Tottenham. Spurs currently sit 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.

The club dismissed former head coach Thomas Frank last month and appointed Igor Tudor as interim manager.

Tudor has yet to register a win, but after a recent defeat to Crystal Palace FC he insisted the team is still moving in the right direction.

“Unfortunately this is the moment we pay for everything. One red card changes everything,” Tudor said.

“Maybe it will sound strange, but I believe more after this game than before. I saw something. I need to choose the right players because the boat is going in the direction that I want it to go.

“When the injured players return, I’m sure we will have a good team and the victories will come. It’s not easy to accept where we are now, but it is how it is.”

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