Manchester United Confirm New Shirt Sponsor
Manchester United have officially announced an expansion of their partnership with Qualcomm Technologies, confirming the Snapdragon brand as their new front-of-shirt sponsor starting from the 2024/25 season. This announcement follows a report from The Athletic’s Adam Crafton, which detailed the club’s advanced discussions with Qualcomm, the American tech giant, to replace TeamViewer as their primary shirt sponsor.
Under this expanded collaboration, the Snapdragon logo will feature prominently on United’s kits from next season. However, TeamViewer will remain as the front sponsor for the remainder of the current campaign. Qualcomm, a global leader in wireless technology, has already been a key partner of the club, promoting its Snapdragon products, which include smartphones, PCs, gaming devices, and connected cars.
It is believed that the deal could bring in £60 million per year for United, a significant boost to the club’s commercial revenue. This move has sparked concerns among fans regarding the ownership of the club, as some fear that the Glazers’ involvement in securing long-term sponsorship deals may indicate they have no plans to sell the club soon. The American owners have previously entertained bids from both Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim bin Al Thani but have yet to make any official decision regarding a sale.
Onana Keeps Clean Sheet for Cameroon
Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana marked his return to international duty for Cameroon with a clean sheet in their 3-0 victory over Burundi, securing their qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Onana, who had retired from international football following a fallout with coach Rigobert Song during the 2022 World Cup, shocked many by deciding to make a comeback just last week.
The 27-year-old shot-stopper played the full match in Garoua, earning his 35th international cap and recording his 13th clean sheet for the Indomitable Lions. Goals from Brentford’s Bryan Mbuemo, Rennes defender Christopher Wood, and Besiktas striker Vincent Aboubakar ensured Cameroon’s qualification for AFCON 2024, which will be held in the Ivory Coast.
Onana’s participation in the tournament means Manchester United will likely be without their first-choice goalkeeper for a crucial stretch of the season. The competition runs from January 13 to February 11, during which time United are set to face Tottenham, Wolves, West Ham, and Aston Villa in the Premier League, as well as potential FA Cup fixtures. Onana’s absence could extend depending on Cameroon’s progress in the tournament, potentially causing a selection headache for Erik ten Hag.
Hannibal Taunts Salah After Tunisia Victory
Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri was involved in some playful antics following Tunisia’s 3-1 friendly victory over Egypt in Cairo. The 20-year-old came off the bench in the 82nd minute with Tunisia leading 2-1, and they sealed the win with a late goal deep into stoppage time.
In the aftermath of the third goal, Hannibal and his teammates celebrated in style by mocking Egypt star Mohamed Salah’s trademark goal celebration, rubbing salt into the wounds of their North African rivals. Hannibal, grinning from ear to ear, was at the heart of the celebrations as Tunisia revelled in their triumph on Egyptian soil.
Hannibal’s international career continues to flourish, with the youngster now having earned 26 caps for Tunisia. Given his consistent performances for the national team, there is growing hope among United fans that he will be given more opportunities in the first-team this season, potentially in cup competitions such as the Carabao Cup, where he could make a real impact.