Manchester United

The leak of team news has become a recurring issue for Man United in recent times, including in the build-up to Sunday's Manchester derby.

Ruben Amorim's starting XI was revealed by Manchester Evening News 24 hours ahead of kick-off at the Etihad Stadium.

The leaked lineup failed to have a detrimental impact, as Man United staged a late turnaround to claim a 2-1 victory thanks to a Bruno Fernandes penalty and a Amad Diallo strike.

A recent report claimed that Diallo and Garnacho had both been questioned about whether they had any knowledge about the source of the leaks.

Man United point finger at 'network of people'

According to Manchester Evening News, Man United have rubbished claims that Garnacho, or his brother, Roberto Garnacho, were behind the recent leaks.

The report also claims that Amad is not responsible for the leaked team news, and the club have denied the suggestion that they have investigated the matter.

Rather than a specific player, Man United believe a 'network of people' who have 'varying motivations and incentives' are behind the recent leaks.

Amorim admitted after Sunday's Manchester derby that the leaked team news was "not a good thing" but conceded it would be incredibly difficult to solve the issue.

"I know that story," Amorim told reporters. "I think it is impossible to fix, because you have a lot of people in the club, the players talk with agents, you can talk with friends, it's hard to know, it is not a good thing."

How big is Man United's leaked team news issue?

Obviously, Man United will be aware that the leaking of team news could present their opponents with a potential advantage.

However, with all the information available in the modern game, most managers will have a good idea about how an opposing coach will set up and which players will start.

Perhaps the greater issue for Man United is that has become such a big topic and is generating significant speculation.

The recent rumours about who could be the source of the leaks could affect the harmony in the Man United dressing room.

Amorim will hope to keep his lineup a secret for Thursday's EFL Cup quarter-final against Tottenham Hotspur.

Written by

Ben Sully