Manchester United will likely see more departures than arrivals this January with club chiefs making clear that they do not envisage a busy transfer market.
The club are once again paying the price of overpaying on transfers, only this time United are in a tighter corner. The Reds cannot offer any European football at all, never mind in the Champions League, with the only realistic chance of silverware now the FA Cup.
After United reached the final last year, there was optimism over the future. A top four finish and a League Cup in the bank has now been branded an “overachievement” by Erik ten Hag.
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Off-field sagas have dominated the headlines at United with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival perhaps the only positive in that regard. The one issue that has hung over the squad the most is Jadon Sancho, who remains exiled from the first-team squad.
His refusal to apologise for his tweet that effectively branded his manager a liar means he has not played since August and may never don the jersey of United again. Ten Hag cannot be accused of not showing favour to the winger.
He organised an individual training programme to get Sancho's game back on track last festive period before welcoming him back into the side. Despite tepid displays, the boss persisted in starting Sancho and he ended up playing 78 minutes of the FA Cup final.
He owes Ten Hag some loyalty and an apology. But with neither seemingly forthcoming, Sancho may return to former club Borussia Dortmund on loan this month.
His exit would probably deny the opportunity for Facundo Pellistri to seek a loan. The Uruguayan has played 13
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