Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has told reporters that a decision has already been taken over Facundo Pellistri‘s future.
The Uruguayan was subject of loan interest, with clubs from Flamengo to Valencia to Watford and Bologna all keen, London World reported.
Pellistri has gone from an afterthought at United to part of the first team squad, after two impressive cameo performances in the Carabao Cup.
With the transfer deadline approaching, United have made a decision, with Pellistri set to stay.
READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfers in, out, loan deals for January 2023
Facundo Pellistri’s future
Erik ten Hag told his press conference that his actions to bring Pellistri on in the Carabao Cup semi-final was a clear indication the Uruguayan will stay.
He said: “The way we put [players] on, on Wednesday, Pellistri, that’s already a signal.”
He added that United need the attacking cover amid an intense fixture schedule, commenting: “We have many games to cover, and so we need players to cover that. When you play in 30 days 10 games, you need a lot of players.”
Speaking to the club website after the game against Forest, Ten Hag said he liked what Pellistri had to offer.
“He is also a footballer who can play really well between the lines, because he is confident on the ball.
“He is a little different. Antony plays on the right wing, but he is left-handed, while Facundo is right-handed. He created a good opportunity near the end [of the game against Nottingham Forest], when he crossed Wout Weghorst.”
Pellistri could get game time in the FA Cup this weekend against Reading, and then in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg, where Manchester United already have a healthy 3-0 lead.
The 21-year-old signed with United from Penarol in 2020, and has since gone onto establish himself as a Uruguay international, featuring at the World Cup in Qatar.
It was crucial for his United career that he could convince Ten Hag he has a role to play this season, as next season Amad will return from loan and add to the competition for places.
The Mail reported this week that United were still considering making one more attacking signing, however, Pellistri staying could negate the need for this.