One Manchester United star has been told he should leave the club in the January transfer window following Michael Carrick’s appointment as interim boss.
Manchester United’s January transfer window could prove crucial in Michael Carrick’s pursuit of Champions League football.
Before Rúben Amorim’s departure, it seemed that several United stars – including Kobbie Mainoo – could be heading for the exit door in the January window. But Jason Wilcox’s decision to sack the Portuguese has created further uncertainties over their futures at Old Trafford.
Reports immediately after Amorim’s sacking indicated that no player would be allowed to leave the club, but United have continued to be linked with new recruits for the winter window. If United are looking to add to the squad this month, more players will likely be moved on to free up space for the new signings.
The formation change under Darren Fletcher created further questions over certain first-team players. With Carrick likely to continue in a 4-2-3-1, at least one of Amad or Bryan Mbeumo could be left without a regular place, despite being named as key men by former United defender Paul Parker.
There are further questions about the defensive players. The shift to a back four means United will be left with far too many central defenders, with Matthijs de Ligt set to return to training soon, following Harry Maguire’s return to action against Brighton.
Parker says Zirkzee should leave
Joshua Zirkzee featured off the bench against Brighton, although reports have heavily linked him with a move to AS Roma in January. But the Dutchman appeared to struggle with a hamstring issue just minutes after coming on. While this could jeopardise his move, a former United defender has claimed he should still leave the club.
Parker exclusively told UtdDistrict: “It looks like Zirkzee doesn’t want to be at the club, so I think it’s best for all parties if he leaves.
“There is no point keeping a player who doesn’t want to be playing, and I would rather see a young player come through who really wants to play and contribute to the club’s long-term success.”
Parker was also asked about Manuel Ugarte’s supposed move to Turkey. He said: “In terms of looking to sell, I think Carrick must look to find the key players who he thinks will be in his immediate plans and play them. I don’t think this is the time for him to give everyone a runout.
“I am sure he will know the key players who will be playing week in week out, and with no cup or European football, if Carrick can get a settled side, then let that be the case to keep picking up points and winning games. So find what works and keep it going.”
Carrick must use his full squad
Carrick’s interim spell in charge of United will feel short, especially given the FA Cup exit to Brighton and Hove Albion.
In reality, Carrick could pick the same starting XI for almost every game of his tenure, with just Noussair Mazraoui and De Ligt likely to be unavailable for the Manchester derby next weekend, but he must use the full squad.
The next full-time head coach will first meet the squad in pre-season in the summer, meaning they won’t get an opportunity to learn about their players before taking full charge. Therefore, Carrick should utilise his full playing squad, including some young players breaking through.
If academy stars like Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey can embed themselves into the first team this season, they could be key players next season in the Europa League or Champions League.
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