The Red Devils boss faces a crucial decision – overhaul his squad or face a disastrous second half of the season.
By Eng’ Okemwa
As January comes to a close, Manchester United find themselves in a precarious position. With the team languishing in 12th place in the Premier League and their financial situation far from ideal, manager Ruben Amorim faces a crucial decision: overhaul his squad or face a disastrous second half of the season.
Amorim’s primary focus will be to offload high-wage players who no longer fit into his plans, making space for fresh talent and improving the squad’s overall balance. In a transfer window where funds are tight, he must act swiftly.
Here are five Manchester United players that Amorim should be looking to move on from this January.
1. Marcus Rashford: Once a star, now a liability?
Marcus Rashford’s fall from grace has been swift and somewhat shocking. The England international, who was once considered one of Manchester United’s most valuable players, now finds himself on the chopping block.
Rashford has struggled under Amorim’s tactics and was notably absent from the squad in key fixtures. His relationship with the manager has soured, and despite his explosive talent, he has failed to consistently deliver this season. With a hefty £300,000-a-week salary, moving Rashford on could provide the club with much-needed funds.
Rumours suggest interest from several Premier League sides, with Juventus also monitoring his situation. Selling Rashford could be a savvy move for United, particularly as his homegrown status means they would make a profit on his sale.
2. Casemiro’s time is up: Manchester United need to move on
Once hailed as a top signing, Casemiro’s time at Old Trafford is beginning to feel like a regret. Despite his wealth of experience and leadership qualities, the Brazilian defensive midfielder has been increasingly ineffective this season.
Casemiro’s £350,000-a-week wages are a significant burden on United’s finances, and with the club needing to tighten the purse strings, it may be time to cut ties. His performances have dipped, and he’s no longer the game-changer he once was for Real Madrid.
If United can offload Casemiro, they could reinvest those funds in a younger, more dynamic midfield option, something that would fit better with Amorim’s vision for the future.
3. Antony: A high-earning enigma that needed to go
Last week, LALIGA side Real Betis signed Brazil international Antony on loan from Manchester United until the end of the season, much to the delight of many a Manchester United fan. Antony’s signing from Ajax to Manchester United two summers ago was met with optimism, but it didn’t pan out as hoped.
The Brazilian winger showed glimpses of potential, but his consistency was non-existent. He was largely ineffective in key moments and has failed to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.
At £200,000-a-week, Antony’s wages are a heavy burden, especially considering his lack of output. His low goal-scoring return and inability to make a real impact on matches make him expendable. With Amorim seeking players who can bring immediate results, Antony had to be one of the casualties of United’s January overhaul.
4. Joshua Zirkzee: The striker who is yet to settle
Joshua Zirkzee’s time at Manchester United has been a brief and underwhelming one. Signed to provide depth in attack, the Dutch forward has failed to adapt to Amorim’s tactical approach. Despite flashes of promise, Zirkzee has struggled to make an impact, leading many to believe that his time at Old Trafford is up.
Reports suggest that Zirkzee could return to Serie A, with Juventus reportedly interested in a move. Given his struggles to settle in Manchester, a loan or permanent deal could benefit all parties. United need a striker who can make a difference immediately, something Zirkzee has failed to do.
5. Victor Lindelöf: A long-term backup no more
Victor Lindelöf has been a reliable backup at Manchester United, but his days as a first-team regular seem numbered. With the arrival of new defensive signings, Lindelöf’s role in the squad has become less clear. The Swedish international is a steady option, but United needs to focus on rebuilding a defensive partnership that can challenge for the top spots in the Premier League.
Lindelöf, whose £120,000-a-week wages are not justified by his current role, could be moved on to free up space for more dynamic defensive options. Amorim may look for a better fit in his defensive line, making Lindelöf’s departure a likely option.
Change or perish
As Ruben Amorim begins to reshape Manchester United’s squad, the players mentioned above are prime candidates for departure. Whether it’s freeing up valuable wage space or selling players who no longer fit the manager’s vision, January is the perfect time for United to make bold moves.
Moving these players on will not only improve the team’s financial situation but will also give Amorim the resources needed to reinvigorate his squad and push for a better second half of the season.
The road ahead for Manchester United is challenging, but with the right decisions, the club can emerge from this crisis stronger and more determined than ever.
