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Erik ten Hag could be about to exchange the roles of two Manchester United attackers

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Erik ten Hag could be about to exchange the roles of two Manchester United attackers

Man United manager Erik ten Hag has a huge decision to make when naming his starting XI for the Premier League opener.

When the team news drops an hour before kick-off at Old Trafford on Friday night, eyes will go in search of any Manchester United debutants on the teamsheet.

Following the additions of Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich on Tuesday, United manager Erik ten Hag could hand out up to three debuts for the visit of Fulham for the Premier League curtain-raiser.

Joshua Zirkzee, who joined the club from Bologna last month, failed to make it off the bench against Manchester City at Wembley last weekend, meaning he is still waiting to make his bow in United colours.

Having failed to make it off the bench against City, it is unlikely the Netherlands international will be thrown straight in from the off against the Cottagers. Bruno Fernandes operated as a ‘false nine’ against Pep Guardiola’s men and is likely to do so once again.

Provided Ten Hag does not share more negative news on the injury front when he speaks to the media at Carrington this afternoon, his first starting line-up of the new Premier League season could be relatively easy to predict. The only elements of uncertainty are likely to come in the left-sided full-back berth and in the wide areas.

Whereas last season Marcus Rashford was forced to start the campaign through the middle in the absence of Rasmus Hojlund, it has been proven throughout pre-season that Ten Hag has no plans to utilise the academy graduate in a central position, recognising he is at his best stationed on the left.

But as a result of Amad’s glittering pre-season performances and Alejandro Garnacho’s contribution off the bench against City, Rashford is not guaranteed a start against Marco Silva’s side.

12 months ago, Rashford, after an outstanding 2022/23 campaign, was the first name on the teamsheet, meaning Garnacho faced the prospect of missing out on a starting berth for the season opener against Wolves. The Argentine was only lucky enough to get a start because of the fact Rashford had to start up front in the absence of a recognised striker.

Although Garnacho had shown flashes of his quality in 2022/23, he went into the start of last season occupying the unofficial title of Rashford’s deputy. He had only proven what he could do on the left of the attack, and the prospect of him being deployed on the right was not given much thought.

As he demonstrated in the second half of last term, he is more than capable of delivering the goods on the right, meaning he, Antony and Amad are now right-wing options. However, Amad’s pre-season form has made it impossible for him to be omitted from the starting line-up against the Londoners.

It means Garnacho and Rashford are facing the likelihood of going head-to-head in the battle to become Ten Hag’s first-choice left-winger. Both are excellent players who bring a wide range of qualities to the table, meaning they will equally have aspirations of starting.

But as Garnacho demonstrated in his cameo against City, he has become impossible to overlook. He scored 10 goals and registered five assists last season, meaning he ended the season with more direct goal contributions than Rashford, who got 13.

Garnacho answered Ten Hag’s demand last term, evolving from being an impact player who would previously struggle when given a start, to becoming one of United’s most potent attackers. He scored in big moments last season and is now one of the most popular players at the club.

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If Garnacho starts on the left over Rashford against Fulham, it will signify just how much progress he has made in the space of just 12 months. He was excellent last season, so much so he was unfortunate to miss out on the club’s Player of the Year award.

With Amad on one side and Garnacho on the other, United would have two skilful and direct wingers in their attack. Also, they are both equally capable of scoring goals, which is something the club has been lacking from both flanks simultaneously in recent years.

Garnacho is a crowd-pleaser and a player who the wider public are entertained by. It is unlikely to go down well if his name is missing from the starting XI on Friday night.

 

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Report: Manchester United Star Set to Leave the Club in 2025; Others to Follow

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Report: Manchester United Star Set to Leave the Club in 2025; Others to Follow

 

Christian Eriksen Set for Manchester United Exit in 2025 – What’s Next?

In a recent report from TeamTalk, it appears that Christian Eriksen’s time at Manchester United could be coming to an end as soon as 2025. The Danish midfielder, who joined the Red Devils in the summer of 2022, may be one of the first departures next summer according to Spanish sources. Despite his solid first season at Old Trafford, Eriksen has found himself falling down the pecking order. With his contract nearing its end, Manchester United seem unlikely to offer an extension, raising questions about his future.

Eriksen’s Contract Situation

Eriksen, who signed for Manchester United on a free transfer after proving his fitness at Brentford, has been a reliable and experienced option for Erik ten Hag. His initial season saw him make 44 appearances, but last year, the rise of young talent Kobbie Mainoo pushed him further out of the spotlight. While Eriksen’s £150,000-a-week wage isn’t astronomical by modern football standards, it’s a significant figure for a player in his 30s who isn’t a guaranteed starter.

According to TeamTalk, there are ‘no doubts’ at Manchester United that Eriksen will leave at the end of his contract in 2025. The report from Spanish outlet Fichajes adds that Eriksen ‘is set to become Manchester United’s first confirmed departure at the end of the current season.’ This aligns with United’s strategy of trimming an ageing squad, especially when significant wages are involved.

Eriksen’s Commitment to Manchester United

Despite the speculation around his future, Eriksen remains fully committed to United for what is likely his final season. In an interview with Wandsworth Times, he spoke openly about his dedication to the club: “I feel very good being at United. If they told me to leave I would leave but I didn’t hear that.”

When pressed about his future, Eriksen remained focused on the present season, stating: “There’s one year left so my focus is going to be on this year, going full out and see what happens afterwards.” His professionalism is undeniable, and United fans can expect the Dane to give his all until the very end.

Who Else Could Leave Manchester United in 2025?

Eriksen is just one of several Manchester United players who could depart next summer. As reported by TeamTalk, five other stars are also approaching the end of their contracts.

Tom Heaton: The 38-year-old goalkeeper has been a positive influence in the dressing room but may be nearing the end of his United career.

Jonny Evans: At 36, the veteran defender has been a reliable presence but could make way for younger players.

Harry Maguire: With speculation about his future continuing to swirl, the England defender could leave as his contract runs out.

Victor Lindelof: The Swedish centre-back is out of contract in 2025, and it remains to be seen if United will offer him a new deal.

Amad Diallo: The young winger is a promising talent, but his contract situation will need to be resolved soon.

This potential mass exodus reflects a need for Manchester United to rejuvenate their squad. With Erik ten Hag under pressure for some of his transfer decisions, the summer of 2025 could mark a significant turning point in his tenure.

Manchester United’s Transfer Plans

While Eriksen’s exit seems inevitable, Manchester United are already planning for the future. They’ve been linked with several high-profile names, including Croatian midfielder Martin Baturina. According to TeamTalk, United have surged ahead of Real Madrid in the race to sign Baturina, who has impressed with five assists in eight games this season. Additionally, Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Jonathan Tah is reportedly on United’s radar as a free agent target for next summer.

These potential signings signal a clear intent from Manchester United to rebuild and strengthen key areas. With Eriksen’s departure likely, the focus will shift to finding creative and dynamic midfield options to fill the void.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For many Manchester United fans, news of Christian Eriksen’s impending exit will be met with a mixture of sadness and acceptance. Eriksen has been a steady influence on the pitch, but the reality is that the team needs to move forward with younger, more dynamic players if they want to compete at the highest level.

Kobbie Mainoo’s emergence is a sign of the direction Manchester United are heading in. While Eriksen still offers plenty of experience and class, the pace of the modern game is unforgiving for players in their 30s. Erik ten Hag seems intent on shaping a squad that is not only talented but built for longevity. Players like Eriksen, while valuable, may no longer fit that vision.

From a tactical perspective, Eriksen’s departure could open up space for a more energetic, box-to-box midfielder who can provide both defensive cover and attacking impetus. United’s reported interest in Martin Baturina aligns with this need, as he’s shown the ability to create chances from deep and provide assists—something Eriksen has been known for throughout his career.

For fans, the thought of Eriksen leaving brings a sense of nostalgia, but also excitement for what’s to come. The club has been in a state of transition for years, and moves like these are necessary for long-term success. The key will be ensuring that the next wave of players can not only fill the boots of outgoing veterans but exceed them.

As Manchester United look to the future, the challenge will be balancing experience with youth, and Eriksen’s farewell may be one of the first steps in that process.

 

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Samuel Lusale’s move finally confirmed as wonderkid pictured with Man United jersey at Old Trafford

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Samuel Lusale’s move finally confirmed as wonderkid pictured with Man United jersey at Old Trafford

 

Not only the first team but INEOS also made sure the Manchester United academy was strengthened with quite a few high-profile additions made over the summer.

Sekou Kone was quite the capture and has already been tipped to make his breakthrough in his debut campaign itself with his name included in the Premier League squad submitted to the league by the club.

Other prominent captures include Samuel Lusale from Crystal Palace, James Overy, formerly of Perth Glory in Australia and former Arsenal academy striking sensation Chido Obi-Martin.

However, all three deals needed ratification from the FA and the league and that took quite a while but recently, as relayed by The Peoples Person, both Lusale and Overy have received the necessary clearances.

Lusale to United confirmed

The former Eagles academy star recently confirmed his departure from the London club and now, his move to the Red Devils has been confirmed with the 17-year-old spotted at Old Trafford.

The Secret Scout, a reputable source for youth football news, uploaded a picture on X (formerly Twitter) showing the Slovakia U18 international standing at Old Trafford posing with the No 7 jersey.

BOOM 💥 Samuel Lusale to Manchester United officially complete 🔴 ☑️

The account also revealed that the 20-time English league champions had to fend off competition from England, Italy and Germany to land Lusale.

He can play as an attacking midfielder and out wide with versatility a highly valued trait in modern football.

Lusale tipped for the top

The player is slated to initially join up with United’s all-conquering U18 side but is expected to move up quickly to the reserve level.

Palace tried desperately to hold on to the teen ace but Lusale rejected a scholarship offer in favour of a move to Old Trafford.

The move was confirmed after the 20-time English league champions agreed a compensation package with the Eagles.

Now, only Obi-Martin remains to receive the all-clear to complete his move to United. Hopefully, that will be tied up as soon as possible.

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Exclusive: Exciting Man Utd 17-Year-Old ‘Not Ready for Breakout Season’

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Exclusive: Exciting Man Utd 17-Year-Old ‘Not Ready for Breakout Season’

Manchester United starlet Harry Amass was not included in the matchday squad for the Carabao Cup hammering of Barnsley as boss Erik ten Hag has decided that the Old Trafford youngster is not ready to enjoy a breakthrough season in the first-team, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Christian Eriksen grabbed braces, while Antony got his name on the scoresheet from the penalty spot, as the Red Devils cruised to their biggest victory since the Dutch tactician took charge thanks to completing a 7-0 rout of their League One opponents earlier this week.

Although Manuel Ugarte was handed the opportunity to make his first start since joining Manchester United in a deal worth up to £50.5million from Paris Saint-Germain during the closing stages of the summer transfer window, Amass was unable to work his way into ten Hag’s plans for the encounter.

Amass Must Develop Further Before Selection

Red Devils feel teen needs to prepare for higher level of physicality

Amass is not on course to enjoy a breakout season at Manchester United during the current campaign as ten Hag is adamant that he needs to continue developing his game before being ready for first-team action, according to GMS sources, which resulted in fellow youngster Toby Collyer getting the nod to start at left-back against Barnsley.

The 17-year-old was named on the bench seven times last term, including for the FA Cup semi-final clash with Coventry City, but he is still seeking his senior debut and will be forced to remain patient in the coming months as he is not at the forefront of the Red Devils’ plans despite Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia remaining on the treatment table.

Although there was some surprise within the Manchester United fanbase at Amass’ omission from the matchday squad when Barnsley headed to Old Trafford, GMS sources have been informed that there is a feeling behind the scenes that he needs more time to prepare for the level of physicality at the top level, along with the amount of pressure and expectation.

Harry Amass’ statistics at youth level

Club

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Yellow cards

Sent off

Manchester United under-18s

17

1

3

3

0

Manchester United under-21s

6

0

3

3

0

Manchester United under-19s

2

0

0

0

0

Watford under-18s

2

0

0

0

0

Statistics correct as of 18/09/2024

The exciting left-sided full-back enjoyed a decent pre-season as he was involved with the first-team squad, but his only game time since the campaign got underway has come in the form of three appearances for the Red Devils’ under-21 squad, and he grabbed an assist in a Bristol Street Motors Trophy win over Barnsley.

Manchester United technical director Jason Wilcox was eager for the likes of Amass to be involved during the closing stages of last term as he was keen to assess whether he should be considered a first-team squad member, GMS previously reported, but ten Hag chose to head in an alternative direction as he chased European qualification and FA Cup glory.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Harry Amass registered 82 per cent pass accuracy, won nine ground duels, completed seven tackles and made four key passes during Manchester United’s Bristol Street Motors Trophy win over Barnsley last month

Ten Hag Still Viewing Amass as Future Talent

Left-back will be handed opportunities further down the line

Although Amass is not currently in the first-team picture at Manchester United, meaning he is not in contention to be involved against Crystal Palace on Saturday, GMS sources have been told that there are still high hopes for the teenager to make a name for himself at Old Trafford and eventually progress into the forefront of ten Hag’s plans.

The former Watford sensation, who was named in the matchday squad once before leaving Vicarage Road for the Red Devils, has been pinpointed as having a bright future ahead of him after there has been the success of academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo making the leap into senior action within the last 12 months.

But Amass is being forced to continue playing the waiting game before being handed a chance, and GMS sources understand that there will be opportunities further down the line as there is belief within Manchester United that he has the ability to eventually work his way into the picture amid Shaw and Malacia’s ongoing injury issues.

 

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