Manchester United declined the opportunity to send Facundo Pellistri out on loan. The reason for that decision may have emerged.
Sheffield United were one of the teams left disappointed that Manchester United chose to keep Facundo Pellistri during the transfer window.
The Athletic reported that Erik ten Hag chose to keep Pellistri after late window talks.
There is a hope that Pellistri can start to challenge for a first team spot. He has never started a Premier League game since his £7 million move in 2020.
READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfers in, out, loans, releases, youth for 2023/24
Winger troubles at Old Trafford
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag may have recognised the troubles the club may be set to encounter at the winger position.
Jadon Sancho was dropped from the squad at the weekend, for reasons which Sancho himself disputes.
One way or another, Ten Hag believed Pellistri to be more deserving to be part of his squad, even if he did not bring him on.
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There are also further problems potentially coming down the track for Antony, who himself has been struggling for form.
It would have been foolish for Ten Hag to decide to dispense with Pellistri. He was not feeling charitable enough to loan him out, when he might be needed, and quite rightly.
Pellistri has looked bright in each and every cameo appearance, and many United fans would like to see him get an opportunity.
He does not complain despite his lack of match action, even though he would probably be entitled to moan at this point, having seen so little playing time.
There could be opportunities around the corner, especially if Sancho and Antony’s situations take a turn for the worse.
Pellistri on international duty
Pellistri is currently on international duty with Uruguay as the nation prepare to kick off their World Cup qualifying campaign.
They are doing so with a new era in mind, which has seen Edinson Cavani finally axed from the national team along with Luis Suarez.
New boss Marcelo Bielsa is willing to put his faith in youth, and Pellistri is expected to play a prominent part.