Man Utd debt: Premier League club owe more than £1bn after latest borrowing
Manchester United took on an extra £105m of debt to help fund their summer transfer spending, taking the amount they now owe to almost £1.1bn. United released club accounts up to 30 June 2025 on 17 September. More detailed information was then released to the New York Stock Exchange on 18 September when the club outlined some of their business after the initial reporting date. United say they spent £167.8m on new players after 30 June. They signed Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford on 21 July, Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig on 9 August and Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp on 1 September. They had already signed Brazil forward Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5m in June. In the latest financial statement, the club confirmed their debt was £637m on 30 June 2025. This was made up of the historic senior secured notes and secured term loan facility which are a legacy of the Glazer takeover in 2005, plus revolving credit, which they have recently increased by £50m so £350m is available if required. However, they also detail four additional drawdowns from the revolving credit facility between 7 July and 11 September totalling £105m, taking the sum accessed from this to £265m. This takes the debt to £742m. This figure is increased when you add in the £447m United say they owe in transfer fees, £205m of which is due after one year. United also confirm they are owed £102.61m. While staggering transfer fee payments over an extended period of time is now common practice across the Premier League, in total it means United now owe £1.087bn in various forms.
Byrne expects fast, physical battle in PNC final – FBC News
The Flying Fijians are bracing for a stern test as they prepare to face Japan in the Pacific Nations Cup. The match will be a rematch of last year’s decider, with Fiji coming off a strong win over Samoa while Japan impressed in their semi-final against Tonga. Head coach Mick Byrne says his side knows they will need to be sharp in both attack and defense against the Brave Blossoms. Article continues after advertisement “They’ve got a couple of players in there, a couple of their foreign players are very hard over the ball. It’s going to be a challenge for us to make sure we look after our ball in attack.” He added that slowing down Japan’s high-tempo game will be crucial. “They’re a fast team. They play quick ruck ball. We’re going to do our best to slow that down with our good tackles. But we expect Japan to be pretty fast. And as we saw last week, they get around the field, they cover the field, and they cover the edges from side to side very well.” Byrne also pointed out the physicality Japan brings up front, saying their forwards will make it a “tough challenge” for Fiji. He stressed that discipline at the breakdown and composure under pressure will be key areas if the Flying Fijians are to defend their PNC crown. The Flying Fijians will take on Japan at 1.35pm this Sunday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Luke Littler reveals he is ‘taking a step back’ | Sport
Luke Littler has announced that he will be “taking a step back” to pursue “something he loves”. In a cryptic video posted on X on Thursday (18 September), the reigning world darts champion reflected on his “awesome career”, adding that he “couldn’t ask much better for myself”. Listing off some of his accomplishments, the 18-year-old thanked fans for a “phenomenal two years” but admitted it was time to step away. “It’ll shock some people. It’s not been an easy decision. Now I want to focus and do something I really love.” Standing up and walking out of the camera, Littler can be heard mumbling: “You think they’ll fall for that?”
Nasreddine Nabi speaks of his sacking!
Outgoing Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has broken his silence on his shock sacking by the Soweto giants. Nabi was in his second season with Amakhosi, and there were high expectations this term after being given time to rebuild the team. However, the news of his sacking made headlines this week, and he has now confirmed them to be true. According to Nabi, the two parties – him and Chiefs – went separate ways by mutual consent after negotiations. Nabi further confirmed interest from both African and Arab teams but said he will use this time to spend it more with his family. NABI SPEAKS AFTER KAIZER CHIEFS SACKING “My separation from Kaizer Chiefs was a mutual agreement with the club’s management, following a successful and challenging experience,” Nabi told winwin.com. “Currently, I need some time to rest, focus more on my family, and monitor my wife’s health, which has required me to be by her side over the past period. THOUGHTS PLEASE… Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211 Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Drua recruit set for Lautoka debut – FBC News
New Swire Shipping Fijian Drua signing and former Melbourne Rebels forward, Angelo Smith will make his Skipper Cup and Lautoka debut this weekend. Smith has been named at lock for Lautoka’s Round 6 clash against Ba at Vinod Patel Ground on Saturday. The powerful lock, who brings Super Rugby experience, is expected to add strength and composure to the Lautoka pack as they look to climb the table. Article continues after advertisement He joins a starting XV captained by Vilame Senileba and also featuring Drua utility backline Sikeli Rabitu. The Lautoka lineup includes Seru Masi, Atunaisa Uluimoala, Lemeki Racule, Eroni Leone, Gabby Ratu, Ron Kurulase, Kelemete Katudrau, Mesake Beranaliva, Rusiata Matai, Jolame Nasilasila, Sikeli Rabitu, Meli Rumaskakea, and Jerry Tavai. On the bench, Lautoka have depth with Alipate Toko, Samu Soqovata, Sireli Guivalu, Savenaca Raturaga, Saimoni Qaranivalu, Drua halfback Peni Matawalu, Apimeleki Nasalo, and Eliki Naikusa. Kick-off is at 3pm on Saturday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Hansi Flick says opportunity to sign Marcus Rashford was too good to pass up
Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has admitted he could not pass up the opportunity to sign England striker Marcus Rashford when it became apparent he was not wanted at Manchester United. The 27-year-old scored both goals in Barca’s 2-1 Champions League victory at Newcastle on Thursday evening to mark his return to form and leave his head coach delighted that he was surplus to requirements at Old Trafford. Asked if he was surprised to be able to land the 27-year-old on a season-long loan deal, the German said: “When we had this chance, we said, ‘Okay, we have to do it’. “I spoke with him before everything, going in the right way. I said, ‘I want you, I want you in my team’, and 100 per cent I’m happy because he’s an outstanding player.” Rashford, whose only other goal this season had come from the penalty spot during England’s 5-0 World Cup qualifier victory in Serbia, broke the deadlock with 58 minutes gone when he headed Jules Kounde’s cross beyond Nick Pope, who he beat even more comprehensively nine minutes later when thumped home a long-range strike off the underside of the crossbar. Flick said: “For me, this was the first step and he has to make the next one because this match, these two goals here in England against Newcastle for Barcelona in the first Champions League match of the season, I think it’s great, it’s really great. “It gives him confidence in himself and for me, this is the most important thing, that he knows and shows us on the pitch that he’s a fantastic player.” Rashford was delighted to have played such a pivotal role at St James’ Park on his return to England. The striker told TNT Sports: “That is what I am here to do – to help the team win, but also to try to improve and be the best that I can.” Reflecting on his early weeks in Spain, he added: “It is an amazing experience. I have always been a huge admirer of Barcelona, most people my age have watched them play from when we were younger. “It is amazing football and amazing players. We just want to win as much as possible.” Newcastle had roared out of the traps and both Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes might have opened the scoring, but ultimately Gordon’s 90th-minute effort was all they had to show for their efforts as they were made to pay for the chances which went begging. Head coach Eddie Howe said: “Absolutely, that would be a very fair reflection on what I’ve seen tonight, a lot of effort, a lot of commitment, a lot of heart from the players. “I thought it was a good performance without being a great one, and to beat Barcelona I think it needs to be a great one. “We had the chances, two big moments in that first half, and didn’t take them and ultimately when you concede the first goal, the game swings on that moment.” Rashford’s opener came as defender Fabian Schar tried to compose himself after being hit full in the face by another attempt from the frontman. Asked why the Switzerland international had stayed on the pitch, Howe replied: “I’m in the hands of the doctors, really, in that moment. The only message I got was that he was okay to continue.”
The Wayne Rooney Show: ‘I locked Coleen out for putting Liverpool flags up’
Rooney never won a Merseyside derby during his time at Everton, but he was involved in many top-of-the-table matches against Liverpool for Manchester United, who, like Everton, also consider the six-time European Cup winners as bitter rivals. Liverpool’s captain for the majority of Rooney’s time at Old Trafford was his England team-mate Steven Gerrard, who Manchester United’s record goalscorer regarded as a friend. But Rooney spoke openly about his desire to let the Liverpool midfielder feel his presence when they played against each other. “We were good mates off the pitch and whenever I got a chance I’m thinking, ‘I’m going to absolutely smash you’, and I did. He did the same to me,” Rooney said. “You wouldn’t talk to him before the game and then after the game you shake each other’s hand. “If there was ever a chance he knew [I’d challenge him], and I knew if he got a chance he was going to do me, so that’s what football is. You’re playing for your club and there’s moments and big players as well, especially a Gerrard or a [Patrick] Vieira. If you get an opportunity, you can’t let that slip, you’ve got to take it.” Rooney also namechecked another England team-mate, Jamie Carragher, as a player who used to wind him up in matches against Liverpool. “There were a couple of times when Carragher was in your ear. Carragher liked to referee the games and the referee used to let him. He was non-stop and he had that squeaky voice screaming down your ear,” Rooney said. “Sometimes as well, when we’re winning the game, maybe 2-0 up, and I’d ask Carra what he’s doing tonight. Are you going out, where are you going? And then he’d be the same and try and wind you up as well. “Carra did it in a clever way. I was a bit too emotional at times. There were times when I’d talk to centre-backs and if the centre-backs are trying to do you, and get into you, I’d always wait until we were winning by a goal or two and tell them they were crap. That was it really.”
Buffalo Bills continue winning start with 31-21 victory over Miami Dolphins
Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more Josh Allen threw three touchdown passes as the Buffalo Bills maintained their perfect start to the season with a 31-21 win over the Miami Dolphins. Allen completed 22 of 28 passes for 213 yards as the Bills secured their seventh straight win over their AFC East rivals. He also became the fastest quarterback to 300 total touchdowns in the NFL. Running back James Cook rushed for 108 yards and added a two-yard touchdown while Allen found Khalil Shakir from 15 yards to put the Bills ahead midway through the fourth quarter. The score came on the back of a penalty against Zach Sieler for roughing punter Cameron Johnson after the Bills drive had stalled. Having grabbed the lead, Buffalo’s defence held strong late on with Terrel Bernard intercepting Tua Tagovailoa with three minutes remaining for the game’s only turnover. Kicker Matt Prater sealed the victory on the Bills’ next possession, landing a 48-yard field goal, having a 39-yard attempt in the first half. Tagovailoa threw for 146 and two touchdowns, but the Dolphins fell to 0-3 to increase the pressure on coach Mike McDaniel.
Byrne praises Loganimasi and Nasova ahead of final – FBC News
Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne has praised the performances of Ponipate Loganimasi and Joji Nasova following their displays in last week’s Pacific Nations Cup semi-final win over Canada. Fiji meet Japan in the final this weekend. Loganimasi started at full-back for the first time in the semi-final and Byrne said he impressed in the unfamiliar role. Article continues after advertisement “I think Poni handled himself really well at full-back. I like the way he covers the ground. He was very good for us.” Nasova, who made his debut off the bench against Canada, has been rewarded with a starting spot in the final. Byrne said the new man showed promise. “Joji nearly played the full game last week. He took to the game really well. I like the way he came off the line and brought us back infield from the sideline and gave us an opportunity to get a good ruck on the edge and play from there. He did really well. Very happy with him.” The Flying Fijians face Japan in the Pacific Nations Cup final this Sunday in Utah, USA. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Fiji Ready to Face Vanuatu in OFC Men’s Futsal Cup Opener
The Extra Fiji Futsal team is ready to take on Vanuatu in their highly anticipated opening clash of the OFC Men’s Futsal Cup 2025, set for tomorrow at the Vodafone Arena in Suva. Fiji’s match will kick off at 7 pm, following the tournament opener between New Zealand and the Solomon Islands, which is scheduled for 4 pm. Head coach José Gerardo has described the tournament as the beginning of a new cycle for Fijian futsal and emphasised the importance of starting strong on home soil. The Mexican-born coach has laid out a three-year plan for the national side and believes this competition marks the first step toward achieving greater goals. “This is a three-year project. I will stay here with this team. This tournament is very important. It’s the beginning of a new cycle in Fiji,” Gerardo said. He admitted expectations are high but insisted the squad is prepared to meet the challenge head-on. “We have the responsibility to play at home. We have to give the best to our supporters. I have a lot of respect for Vanuatu and their coach. But with all due respect, we are here to win.” Gerardo said the players are determined to deliver a performance that fans can be proud of. “We want to show the Fijian public a victory so they can be happy and continue supporting us. I think our boys are ready to play. They are really excited and they are going to give their best.” Fiji captain Kitione Baleloa echoed his coach’s words, saying the team is highly motivated and well-prepared for the opener. “Playing at home in front of our families and supporters means everything. We respect Vanuatu, but we believe in our preparation. We want to start strong and show what Fiji futsal can achieve,” Baleloa said. He added that discipline and unity would be key to their performance. “The boys are focused, and we are united in our goal to make history for Fiji.” Meanwhile, Vanuatu will not be an easy opponent. Led by head coach Tito Quai, the visitors have arrived in Suva with a squad that blends experience and youth. Quai said they are focused on improving their regional standing and are aiming to make their mark at this year’s Cup. “It has always been an intense match with Fiji. We know they are playing at home. We are expecting a good crowd and a good atmosphere. We are prepared mentally and tactically,” Quai said. He added that the tournament also marks an important transition period for the team. “Our goal is to improve our ranking. We are currently fifth, so our goal is to improve. We are preparing a new generation of players, bringing together experienced players and new talent.” Vanuatu’s captain said the squad is looking forward to the challenge. “Facing Fiji in Suva is always special. We know the challenge that awaits us, but we are ready to compete and give everything for our team and country.”