Former Manchester United legendary goalkeeper, Peter Schmeichel, has shed light on a private conversation he had with Manchester City’s new signing, Gianluigi Donnarumma, regarding the Italian’s decision to snub the Red Devils despite heavy persuasion. Schmeichel, who is widely regarded as one of United’s greatest shot-stoppers, revealed that he tried on several occasions to convince Donnarumma to move to Old Trafford. However, the 25-year-old goalkeeper decided to join Manchester City, making his debut during their emphatic 3-0 Premier League win over Manchester United at the weekend. Pep Guardiola’s men dominated the highly anticipated clash, with Phil Foden scoring once and Erling Haaland netting a brace to seal all three points. The result further highlighted the growing gap between the two Manchester rivals this season. Donnarumma’s first Manchester City appearance The fixture was Donnarumma’s first official outing for the Cityzens following his £26 million transfer from Paris Saint-Germain during the summer transfer window. After the final whistle, Schmeichel approached him at the touchline, questioning why he had turned down United’s interest despite earlier hints of wanting to play in England. Speaking on Premier League Productions, Schmeichel explained: “I’ve followed PSG closely in the Champions League, and I’ve spoken with him many times—he speaks English fluently. Over the past season, I kept telling him, ‘We want you at Manchester United.’ He even admitted he’d love to play in England. So after the match on Sunday, I said, ‘What are you doing here? You should be standing in the other goal for United.’ But he replied, ‘I’m very, very happy here.’ His performance today showed exactly why.” Manchester United’s early struggles continue The defeat against Manchester City marked United’s second loss of the Premier League season. Erik ten Hag’s side has now played four matches, securing only one win, one draw, and suffering two defeats, leaving them with just four points. Currently, United sit 14th on the Premier League table, raising concerns about consistency and squad depth. Their next crucial fixture will see them face Chelsea at Old Trafford, a game that could further shape their season trajectory. For Manchester City, Donnarumma’s confident debut signals another strong addition to Guardiola’s squad as they continue their push for dominance in both domestic and European competitions.
Former Leicester City star, Danny Simpson, has openly shared his sympathy for Manchester United’s summer signing, Benjamin Sesko, following another difficult Premier League outing. The young striker found himself powerless once again as Manchester United endured a humiliating 3-0 defeat to their fierce rivals, Manchester City, at Old Trafford on Sunday. The derby was dominated by Pep Guardiola’s men, with Erling Haaland scoring twice after Phil Foden had broken the deadlock in the first half. According to Simpson, the Red Devils are currently struggling to create meaningful opportunities across every area of the pitch, leaving Sesko isolated and frustrated. “I felt sorry for [Benjamin] Sesko today. He’s putting in the effort, but there’s simply nothing he can do when the team fails to create chances,” Simpson told Stadium Astro. Despite Manchester United adding several talented players during the summer transfer window, the club continues to mirror the same poor form they showed last season. So far this campaign, Ruben Amorim’s side has played four league matches—managing just one victory, suffering two defeats, and securing one draw. With only four points collected, the Red Devils currently sit in 14th place on the Premier League table, raising fresh concerns among fans and pundits. Simpson further criticized Amorim’s tactical choices, particularly the decision not to start young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. He added:“Crazy [Mainoo didn’t start]. The moment he came on, there was more energy and drive in the midfield.” The former Sporting CP coach is now under immense pressure to transform Manchester United’s fortunes and stabilize results at Old Trafford. Up next, Manchester United face an in-form Chelsea side at home next Saturday in what promises to be another crucial test for Amorim and his players.
