Man Utd must part ways with 13 players if Erik ten Hag is dismissed
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Erik ten Hag could be among the Man Utd exits.
(Image: Getty)
Manchester United have plenty of big decisions to make in the summer transfer window under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS’ stewardship, none more so than the fate of the club’s manager, Erik ten Hag. However, regardless of the Dutchman’s future, United’s new era can’t properly commence without an exodus of underperforming talent.
Express Sport pinpoints the 13 players whom United must move on from this summer if they are to quickly progress in the club’s next chapter. Raphael Varane is nearing the end of his contract at Old Trafford, and there has been little noise regarding discussions over an extension on his current £340,000-a-week salary.
The 30-year-old centre-back rarely disappoints on the pitch, but his relentless injury problems aren’t disappearing, making the cost of keeping him hard to justify. Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof will enter the final 12 months of their deals this summer.
It’s unlikely both will leave, and Maguire offers United more than his long-term partner. Lindelof is turning 30 later this year and is too inconsistent to convince that he’d be a top-three option next season.
United should cash in while they can. Jonny Evans has been one of the surprise successes of the season.
The 36-year-old won’t have played nearly as enough if not for United’s injury crisis, but he’s done a commendable job when called upon. Tyrell Malacia looks set to miss the entirety of his second season at United through a knee injury that required two surgeries.
Brandon Williams turns 24 later this year and is at the stage of his career where he needs regular first-team football. He won’t get that at United.
Williams has been part of Kieran McKenna’s thriving Ipswich Town squad this season, so he could be in line for another high-end Championship move if he is released in July. Casemiro’s first two seasons at United couldn’t have been more contrasting.
The straight fact is that he hasn’t even represented a player worth half of his £70million price tag this term. Amid interest from Saudi Arabia, the Red Devils must cash in on the 32-year-old Brazilian and invest in a younger, more athletic partner for Kobbie Mainoo.
The Moroccan midfielder didn’t totally convince figures at the club last summer, and those doubts have been proven correct. His loan from Fiorentina won’t become permanent.
Christian Eriksen has publicly expressed his frustration with his lack of minutes after playing a key role in his first season at United. The experienced Dane has one year left on his deal, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see him pursue a move this summer.
He is down the pecking order, so that should be facilitated. Eintracht Frankfurt appear unlikely to make Donny van de Beek’s loan permanent at the end of the season.
But he doesn’t have much of a future at Old Trafford. Antony has proven to be one of Ten Hag’s biggest mistakes.
It defies belief that the club sanctioned a £86m deal for a player of his quality. Moving the Brazil winger on could prove tricky, but if the opportunity rises, United should take it.
Alejandro Garnacho has made the right wing his own. Jadon Sancho will probably be relieved if Ten Hag is sent his marching orders by INEOS.
There is nothing of that relationship left. But even if the Dutchman departs, United should look for a buyer.
