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• Howe dismisses ‘bonsense’ Bruno Guimaraes to Man Utd talks

  Eddie Howe has vehemently denied reports suggesting captain Bruno Guimarães is in advanced talks with Manchester United, labeling the rumors disrespectful to the injured midfielder. ​Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe dismissed claims that Bruno Guimarães is nearing a move to Old Trafford as “nonsense” during Friday’s press conference. The 28-year-old Brazilian is currently recovering from a hamstring injury, and Howe insists his captain remains fully committed to Tyneside. “To say our captain is in discussions with another club is totally disrespectful to Bruno more than anything else,” Howe stated. ​The Magpies are currently preparing for a crucial Tyne-Wear derby against Sunderland, aiming to recover from a heavy 7-2 Champions League defeat to Barcelona. Howe is focused on a “positive message” to inspire his squad following their previous derby loss in December. While Sandro Tonali is a doubt with a groin issue, Howe expects Guimarães to focus solely on his rehabilitation and Newcastle future.

• Eight players could miss Bournemouth vs Man United after Michael Carrick’s ‘difficult’ injury update

  Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faces a depleted defensive line for Friday’s trip to Bournemouth, with up to eight players potentially sidelined including long-term absentee Matthijs de Ligt.

  ​Manchester United travel to Bournemouth tonight missing several key defenders. Matthijs de Ligt remains out with a persistent back injury, while Patrick Dorgu and Lisandro Martinez are also unavailable.

  Noussair Mazraoui is a fresh doubt following illness. Carrick admitted the uncertainty surrounding De Ligt, stating, “It’s difficult to say… it’s one of those things with backs that sometimes you think it’s all right and then all of a sudden it’s not.”

  ​Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola faces his own selection headaches at the Vitality Stadium. The Cherries will be without Justin Kluivert, Tyler Adams, and Lewis Cook for the Friday night clash.

  Despite these absences, United aim to strengthen their top-four position following a recent victory over Aston Villa.

  Carrick remains cautious but hopeful about Martinez’s recovery, noting that the Argentine center-back is “closer, a lot closer” to a first-team return.

• Steven Gerrard names his Champions League dark horse, its not Liverpool

  Steven Gerrard has identified Bayern Munich as the primary “dark horse” to clinch the Champions League title following their dominant aggregate victory over Atalanta.

  ​Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard believes Bayern Munich are significantly “better equipped” to secure the Champions League trophy this season.

  Following their 10-2 aggregate dismantling of Atalanta, Gerrard highlighted the German side’s tactical organization under Vincent Kompany and Harry Kane’s prolific scoring form.

  While acknowledging Real Madrid’s historical pedigree, the former England captain suggested the Bundesliga giants possess the necessary depth to challenge the tournament’s traditional powerhouses.

  ​Reflecting on their prospects, Gerrard noted: “Bayern could be the dark horses this year. They’ve got everyone back fit now, Harry Kane’s in form, [Vincent] Kompany has got them well drilled.”

  Despite his praise for Munich, Gerrard maintained that defending champions Paris Saint-Germain remain his overall favorites to retain the title, setting the stage for a highly competitive quarter-final round across the European continent

• Man United’s Champions League hopes bolstered by Arsenal’s progress

  Manchester United’s pursuit of Champions League football received a significant boost following Arsenal’s victory over Bayer Leverkusen, which strengthens England’s standing in the UEFA coefficient rankings for an additional qualification spot.

  ​Manchester United’s aspirations for a Champions League return were fortified Tuesday night following Arsenal’s 2-0 triumph over Bayer Leverkusen.

  The Gunners’ progression helps the Premier League maintain its lead in the UEFA coefficient rankings, potentially securing a fifth qualification spot for next season.

  Currently sitting third under Michael Carrick, United remain in a strong position despite recent exits for Manchester City and Chelsea.

  ​Michael Carrick remains focused on the high-stakes battle for European places, emphasizing the need for mental resilience within his squad.

  Addressing the pressure of the run-in, Carrick stated: “We’ve put ourselves in a position now where there’s an awful lot to play for so really embracing the situation and looking forward to the next game.”

  United currently hold a five-point cushion over fifth-placed Liverpool.

• Barcelona issues warning to Newcastle United fans ahead of ‘high risk’ Champions League match

  Barcelona has officially classified their Champions League second-leg tie against Newcastle United as a “high risk” fixture, prompting the implementation of strict security protocols and ticket controls at the Spotify Camp Nou.

  ​Barcelona has triggered an intensive security and control protocol for tonight’s Champions League Round of 16 decider against Newcastle United.

  Classifying the fixture as “high risk,” the Catalan club warned that away supporters found outside the designated visitors’ section will be denied entry.

  To manage the anticipated surge, gates will open early at 5:15 PM local time, with officials stressing that “arriving early to Camp Nou is vital.”

  ​The club’s official statement further advised ticketless Magpies fans against traveling, confirming there will be no stadium sales points.

  Security measures have been reinforced following previous incidents, with strict identification checks and a complete block on unverified ticket transfers.

  As Barcelona noted: “FC Barcelona, as in all matches classified as high risk, will adopt the necessary security measures… to guarantee the safety of all members and local and visiting fans.”