Quinton Fortune, a former midfielder for Manchester United, has suggested that the club should scout leading players from Manchester City should potential sanctions against their neighbours result in relegation from the Premier League. Leading the charge for Fortune is none other than Erling Haaland.
An independent commission has found Manchester City guilty of financial misconduct between 2009 and 2018, a decision that has led the club to file an appeal. The potential ramifications could include the stripping of titles and expulsion from the Premier League.
In light of this scenario, Fortune believes Manchester United could capitalise on the situation. In addition to Haaland, he highlighted the likes of Nico O'Reilly, Ryan Cherki, Marc Guehi, and Elliot Anderson as noteworthy targets. However, he practically ruled out a move for Phil Foden, citing his strong ties with City.
Fortune stated:
Players moving directly from City — I’m not sure how United fans would feel about that.
But they have some astonishing talents. First up, I’d mention Nico O’Reilly. He’s brilliant on the left flank, capable of playing centre-back and in midfield — reminds me a bit of John O'Shea.
Ryan Cherki is also a fantastic player. What he can do with the ball is something special. Phil Foden is a die-hard City fan, so a transfer for him seems unlikely.
Marc Guehi would improve us at the back, while Elliot Anderson could be a strong option too.
If there’s anything left, I’d take Erling Haaland! I can’t believe I listed all these players before Haaland. The options could be plentiful.
Interest in Haaland, should he become available, is being shown by Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich, with Arsenal also considering the possibility of acquiring him.
Fortune also reflected on the 2017/18 Premier League season when Manchester United, under Jose Mourinho, finished second to Manchester City. He believes that Mourinho would have no interest in accepting a championship medal retroactively, even if the results of that season were ever reviewed.
Fortune explained:
I would refuse the medal because if you know you didn’t win it the right way, it feels wrong.
I don’t believe Jose Mourinho would accept such a medal. Given everything he’s achieved in football — Champions League victories with Porto and Inter, and success with Real Madrid — he has accomplished so much.
What he achieved at United under those circumstances was significant too. But I don’t think he’d want a medal handed to him years later. That’s just not in his character — he’s a winner.
