Manchester United’s women’s team secured a commanding advantage in their UEFA Women’s Champions League playoff tie, delivering a 3-0 victory over Atlético Madrid in the first leg. The goals, netted by Geyse Ferreira, Melvine Malard, and Lisa Naalsund, were complemented by a resilient defensive display, with goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce notably denying a penalty from Vilde Bøe Risa.
Off the pitch, the club has formally addressed recent commentary from minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Following his controversial use of the term ‘colonised’, United released a comprehensive statement outlining its commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), a move that precedes a potential investigation by the Football Association.
Transfer Market Movements and Scouting Focus
In transfer developments, Barcelona‘s sporting director, Deco, has provided insight into the proposed loan move for Marcus Rashford. According to Deco, the English forward was prepared to accept reduced personal terms to facilitate a temporary switch to Catalonia, an arrangement that included a purchase option valued at €30 million. Meanwhile, former United coach Rene Meulensteen has publicly advocated for Rashford to consider a reunion with Michael Carrick at Middlesbrough as a potential pathway to rediscovering his form.
The club’s recruitment network appears active, with scouts from Manchester United, alongside those from Arsenal and Chelsea, reportedly monitoring Club Brugge‘s promising 20-year-old midfielder, Aleksandar Stankovic. The young Serbian, whose playing style has drawn comparisons to a youthful Declan Rice, is viewed as a target to bolster midfield options, with a transfer potentially materializing in the upcoming summer window.
Conversely, the pursuit of one previously linked target has diminished. United’s interest in Brighton & Hove Albion‘s Carlos Baleba has waned, influenced by the player’s recent dip in performance and a brief 22-minute substitute appearance against Aston Villa. This shift in strategy has led the club’s scouts to evaluate other prospects, with Crystal Palace‘s Adam Wharton and Newcastle United‘s Elliot Anderson having made positive impressions.