Pellistri could solve Man Utd transfer problem and save the club millions
Robin Bairner
- 3 Jun 2022 05:06 CDT
- 3 min read
Manchester United youngster Facundo Pellistri is rapidly emerging as a money-saving option for new manager Erik ten Hag as the Dutchman contemplates ways in which he can transform the squad.
The former Ajax boss is set to conduct an overhaul of the playing staff at Man Utd over the course of the summer but will be limited by the budget that he has to spend.
Ten Hag is prioritising central midfield reinforcements, but these will not come cheap. After that, he will look at sourcing defenders and potentially a centre forward to act in support of Cristiano Ronaldo.
It is evident, though, that Man Utd have struggled in the wide areas over the course of the last season, with Marcus Rashford totally losing form and Jadon Sancho not hitting the ground at Old Trafford as expected following a move from Borussia Dortmund. Meanwhile, Jesse Lingard has been released, potentially freeing up slot in the first-team squad.
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Pellistri shows his qualities to Ten Hag
With so many areas of the team needing bolstered, Ten Hag will hope internal solutions become apparent, and Pellistri has shown that he could answer his manager's prayers.
The 20-year-old spent the 2020/21 season on loan at Primera Division side Alaves, where he played 23 times in all competitions, including 21 times in La Liga. The former Penarol star did not register a goal or an assist, but was primarily used as a substitute in the closing stages of matches and was, in any case, playing for a team that would finish bottom of the standings.
A better indication of his potential was given during Thursday’s friendly international match between Uruguay and Mexico, in which Man Utd striker Edinson Cavani netted twice. It was his second goal that will have made Red Devils fans really take notice, though, not because of the scorer but because of the manner in which Pellistri assisted it.
Facundo Pellestri's assist for Edinson Cavani 🔥
The 20-year-old could be like a new signing for Man Utd 😉pic.twitter.com/39n8f4hBPi— Football Transfers (@Transfersdotcom) June 3, 2022
Playing just his fourth international, he created his third goal in memorable style. Taking possession on the right wing, he showed impressive strength to retain the ball before accelerating between two players. When in a position to cross, he had the composure to pick out Cavani, who obliged with a terrific first-time finish.
He would leave the field with little over 15 minutes remaining with his reputation significantly enhanced. Coincidentally, Man Utd linked striker Darwin Nunez came on at the same time but was unable to create anything of note in the latter stages of the 3-0 win.
Pellistri’s contribution, though, will have caught the eye of Ten Hag and has propelled him into the first-team reckoning next season – and potentially saved Man Utd millions in the process.
