Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has indicated that there will be player departures from the squad in the summer, suggesting a significant overhaul after another challenging season for the Red Devils.
During a press conference, Amorim stated, “Everyone in football understands that sometimes players stay, and sometimes they need to move on. Being honest is crucial; players can accept it. It might be difficult initially, but they will understand. I am upfront with my players, and they are aware that some might need to leave at the end of the season.”
Several summer exits are anticipated for sporting reasons. This Manchester United team, once described by Amorim as potentially the ‘worst’ in the club’s history, has underperformed and may not align with the manager’s tactical preferences. Furthermore, the club’s financial situation necessitates player transfers. Despite not being in immediate danger of violating Premier League financial regulations, their available funds have decreased to $120 million, leading to a more cautious approach in recent transfer windows.
Manchester United’s summer plans will likely involve releasing high-earning players who are no longer deemed necessary and acquiring new players expected to significantly improve the team.
Potential Departures: Five Players Under Scrutiny
Casemiro
If Manchester United aims to reduce their wage bill and move on from players who are not consistently contributing on the field, Casemiro is a leading candidate for departure. The Brazilian international, surprisingly the highest-paid player at Old Trafford, has struggled to maintain the pace in United’s midfield. His disappointing performances are well-documented, and strengthening the midfield is expected to be a priority in the summer, regardless of financial considerations.
Marcus Rashford
Similar to Casemiro, Marcus Rashford is likely to depart, considering both sporting and financial factors. Rashford’s loan spell at Aston Villa, where he has shown promise with three assists in six games, suggests a move away from Manchester United is probable. While Aston Villa’s interest in a permanent deal remains uncertain, it appears unlikely that the 27-year-old will return to his boyhood club next season.
Antony
Antony’s signing is largely considered a significant setback for former manager Erik ten Hag. Despite Ten Hag’s previous association with the player at Ajax and his advocacy for Antony’s transfer to United, the winger has not performed well for the Red Devils, scoring only 12 goals in 96 appearances. His loan move to Real Betis, where he has scored three goals in seven games, might suggest that he was not the right fit for Manchester United.
Mason Mount
Mason Mount’s time at Manchester United has been marred by injuries, including a persistent thigh issue. His fitness issues raise questions about his value to the team, and even when healthy, he has not consistently delivered the expected impact for a $60 million-plus signing. His acquisition is viewed as another questionable move during the Ten Hag era.
Joshua Zirkzee
Joshua Zirkzee, another signing from the Ten Hag period, is also under scrutiny. Despite being in his first season at the club, it is becoming apparent that he may not be the impactful goalscorer Manchester United needs. With five goals in 39 games this season, his previous statistics at Bologna, indicating limited shots and expected goals, suggest that United’s attempt to find a hidden talent has not succeeded with Zirkzee. This strategy is questionable given their potential to sign a more established goalscorer.
