Aston Villa are being backed to complete a memorable double in 2026, with Champions League qualification being secured through their Premier League standing and a first trophy win in 30 years. Former Villans defender Richard Dunne has told GOAL how landing major silverware and finishing strongly in top-flight competition can help to keep Unai Emery on board.
Ollie Watkins has revealed he expected to be left out of the England squad for March's friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. The Aston Villa striker has struggled for form throughout the 2025-26 season so far but has bounced back with recent goals against West Ham United and Lille and could yet be included in the Three Lions' roster for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Emi Martinez appeared destined to leave Aston Villa in the summer of 2025, only to end up staying put, but could the World Cup-winning goalkeeper finally get his move 12 months on? The enigmatic Argentina international has remained an important part of Unai Emery’s plans in the West Midlands, but Emile Heskey has told GOAL why a sale is likely to be agreed in the next transfer window.
Borussia Dortmund are exploring a sensational third stint for Jadon Sancho as his Manchester United contract reaches its conclusion this June. The Bundesliga giants are optimistic about luring the 25-year-old back to Germany, provided he accepts a significant reduction in his current £300,000-a-week wages. Having struggled for consistency since leaving Germany in 2021, Sancho could now look to revive his career in familiar surroundings.
Aston Villa legend Andy Gray has told GOAL why domestic, and potentially continental rivals will be “knocking on the door” for Morgan Rogers during the summer transfer window. The 23-year-old playmaker has seen his stock soar, to the point that he could be a starter for England at the 2026 World Cup. Chelsea and Manchester United are among those to have already been credited with interest.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has urged the club to keep hold of captain Bruno Fernandes this summer, despite lingering doubts over the Portuguese playmaker's long-term future. Following a crucial victory over Aston Villa, Carrick addressed the speculation surrounding his star's potential future and praised his excellent form for the Red Devils.
The Manchester United captain was the architect behind a vital 3-1 victory over Aston Villa at Old Trafford, providing the final pass for goals from Casemiro and Matheus Cunha. By recording two assists in the match, Fernandes took his season tally to 16, moving one clear of the 15 assists David Beckham managed during the iconic 1999-2000 season.
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has strongly advised his old club against appointing interim boss Michael Carrick as their permanent manager. Despite acknowledging his impressive start and recent winning streak, the outspoken pundit believes the Old Trafford hierarchy must look elsewhere, insisting there are far superior candidates available for the demanding role.
Interim Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has dismissed growing calls for him to take the job on a permanent basis, describing the speculation as "only noise," following a crucial 3-1 Premier League victory over Aston Villa. The win prompted club legend Wayne Rooney to publicly endorse his former team-mate for the full-time managerial role at Old Trafford.
Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick has addressed the growing clamour for Casemiro to remain at Old Trafford for another season. Another stellar performance from the Brazilian against Aston Villa saw supporters chant for the midfielder to stay past the end of the season. The club have previously announced he will leave in the summer when his contract expires.
Portuguese playmaker Bruno Fernandes has created more history at Manchester United. By providing two assists in a 3-1 win over Aston Villa, he surpassed David Beckham's mark of 15 to reach 16 assists, setting a new Premier League single-season club record. This vital victory also represents a massive step forward in United's quest to secure Champions League qualification.
Bruno Fernandes made history by inspiring Manchester United to a 3-1 win over Aston Villa as they homed in on a return to the Champions League. The Red Devils captain recorded his 15th and 16th assists of the season as United saw off fellow top-four contenders Villa and tightened their grip on third place, opening up a three-point gap with Unai Emery's side.
Manchester United interim head coach Michael Carrick has refused to shut the door on a potential Old Trafford return for Jadon Sancho. The winger, currently rebuilding his reputation during a loan spell at Aston Villa, has struggled to find consistency since his big-money move from the Bundesliga. However, Carrick, who worked with the England international during his initial stint on the coaching staff, insists the quality that prompted United to sign him remains despite his recent exile from the first-team picture.
James Milner has, in an exclusive interview with GOAL, explained how blending old and new school approaches have helped to make him a history-making Premier League legend. The ex-England international is a three-time title winner, with various other trophies to his name, and is still going strong at 40 years of age after mixing talent with technology.
Joshua Zirkzee could leave Manchester United in the summer. The former Bayern youngster is struggling for playing time at the Red Devils – and is therefore apparently considering a move.
Douglas Luiz appears to have moved on from Alisha Lehmann, after seeing their relationship brought to a close in 2025, with the Aston Villa midfielder being romantically linked to the daughter of Arsenal legend Edu. The Brazil international has been spotted getting cosy with 19-year-old model and influencer Duda Gaspar, with their relationship seemingly being made public on social media.
Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rogers is facing intense scrutiny over his private life after former partner Leah Taylor went public with claims of infidelity. The Love Island star detailed the breakdown of their whirlwind romance during a recent podcast appearance.
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Aston Villa
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