The Manchester United leadership is set to convene following the match against Aston Villa as the pressure on manager Erik ten Hag intensifies.

**”We Are Mad” – Ten Hag Urges United to Channel Anger Ahead of Porto Clash**

In a week that could prove pivotal for Manchester United, manager Erik ten Hag has called on his players to harness their frustration as motivation for their upcoming clash against Porto. The Dutchman’s impassioned plea comes as the club faces mounting scrutiny following a series of disappointing performances.

United are set to meet in London just two days after their Premier League encounter against Aston Villa. A defeat on Sunday could place Ten Hag under immense pressure, particularly with key decision-makers convening shortly thereafter.

According to reports from The Athletic, the club’s executive committee has a long-standing meeting scheduled for Tuesday in the capital. This gathering will include part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Sir Dave Brailsford, and other recent appointments such as chief executive Omar Berrada, sporting director Dan Ashworth, and technical director Jason Wilcox. Notably, United co-chairman Joel Glazer will also be flying in from the United States to participate in the discussions.

Ratcliffe is expected to be at Villa Park on Sunday, marking his first live viewing of the team since their dismal 3-0 defeat to Liverpool. The ultimate decision regarding Ten Hag’s future will rest with the ownership, with Ratcliffe, Glazer, and Brailsford forming a three-person committee to assess the situation based on recommendations from those on the ground.

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**Newcastle United Weighs Options for St. James’ Park**

In a significant development for Newcastle United, the club’s Saudi owners are set to make a crucial decision next year regarding the future of St. James’ Park. The options on the table include either revamping the historic stadium or constructing a brand new facility.

The Sun reports that the club will wait until early 2025 to announce their decision. Plans for a redevelopment of their current home have been drawn up, with estimates suggesting costs could soar to nearly a billion pounds. Conversely, building a new stadium from scratch in a different location could potentially double that figure.

Members of the club’s Fan Advisory Board have been briefed on the initial findings of a feasibility study exploring the various options. However, further investigations into affordability and sustainability mean that the Toon Army will have to remain patient as the club deliberates its next move.

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**Football Transfers Set for Major Overhaul**

In a landmark ruling that could reshape the football transfer landscape, the European Court of Justice has sided with former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder Lassana Diarra in a case against FIFA. This decision could herald the most significant changes to the transfer system since the Bosman ruling.

The Daily Star reports that the court has deemed FIFA’s regulations, which prevent players from joining new clubs after terminating their contracts, to be unlawful. The ruling highlights that certain FIFA rules contravene EU law, restricting players’ freedom of movement and creating anti-competitive conditions.

As a result, players and their agents are likely to gain increased power in the transfer market. The court’s decision means that players whose contracts have been terminated, like Diarra, will have the freedom to join clubs in different countries without the burden of significant compensation to their former clubs.

This ruling is poised to change the dynamics of professional football, granting players greater control over their careers and movements within the sport.