Facundo Pellistri has secured a major boost after being named in Manchester United’s Europa League squad.
The Uruguayan did not go out on loan after picking up an injury in pre-season. As we noted at the time, this could work out in his favour.
Pellistri is expected back from injury this month, and while he likely won’t be involved in the squad this Thursday, he will hope to get an opportunity in the following five matches.
He did feature for United in pre-season, scoring in the 4-0 victory over Liverpool in Bangkok in July.
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Europa League squad
Two notable absentees from the Europa League squad are fringe players Brandon Williams and Phil Jones.
The latter is perennially injured, while William battled injury during pre-season and did not fly out on tour.
The pair would have both hoped to be included in the Europa League squad, with potential opportunities if the team rotates. But they now won’t be able to benefit.
One player in a similar situation did make it in. Axel Tuanzebe did not play a pre-season game, although he did initially travel on tour before flying back.
He was named in the squad, as extra back-up, United’s fifth choice centre-back. It’s possible he may get minutes later in the campaign if he is fit.
United have named 25 players in the squad, and can also add in extra homegrown players as B-list options. Anthony Elanga fits into this category, and Zidane Iqbal, Charlie Savage and Teden Mengi would all be eligible to be called up if selected, along with goalkeeper Matej Kovar.
The campaign begins this Thursday night at Old Trafford against Real Sociedad. Sheriff Tiraspol and Omonia complete the group.
- De Gea, Dubraka, Heaton; Dalot, Lindelof, Maguire, Malacia, Martinez, Shaw, Tuanzebe, Varane, Wan-Bissaka; Casemiro, Eriksen, Fernandes, Fred, McTominay, Pellistri, Sancho, Van de Beek; Antony, Garnacho, Martial, Rashford, Ronaldo.
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