EPL Index
·31 ottobre 2024
EPL Index
·31 ottobre 2024
As Manchester United move closer to confirming Ruben Amorim as their new manager, discussions of a significant squad overhaul are already surfacing. According to TeamTalk, Amorim has openly shared his intentions to reshape United’s squad by cutting ties with certain high-profile players. Following Erik ten Hag’s exit, it’s clear that United’s hierarchy is ready to support a manager with the bold ambition to make hard decisions and foster fresh beginnings.
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Reports suggest that four Red Devils could face an exit under Amorim’s leadership. Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof, Casemiro, and Antony have been named as players who are not part of his long-term vision for United. Amorim’s stance, per sources, is based on these players’ declining performances and high wage demands, both of which fail to align with his plans for a more efficient squad. Eriksen and Lindelof, both nearing contract expiration, are unlikely to be renewed, while Casemiro and Antony could be made available for a combined total of £25 million come January.
Photo: IMAGO
In the words of TeamTalk sources, “Amorim is happy to sell Eriksen and Lindelof in January. However, due to their contract situations, it’s unlikely any club will pay up for them, and the most likely outcome is that they leave on free transfers next summer.” It’s a clear indication that these changes are as much about financial sustainability as they are about performance on the pitch.
Photo: IMAGO
Amorim’s ambitions don’t stop at outgoings; he’s already eyeing potential replacements for his squad. The manager has reportedly highlighted three Sporting CP players—Goncalo Inacio, Marcus Edwards, and Pedro Goncalves—as prospective additions to Old Trafford. Notably, these choices reflect Amorim’s appreciation for talent he’s worked with and a determination to infuse youthful energy and proven skill into the squad.
Photo: IMAGO
Goncalo Inacio, a 23-year-old centre-back, tops his wish list as a replacement for Lindelof. Known for his defensive acumen, Inacio’s talent has already caught Liverpool’s attention. Sporting’s €60 million (£51 million) valuation could pose a challenge, but his potential impact at United is undeniable. “Inacio is considered to be one of the best young centre-backs in Europe,” according to TeamTalk’s report.
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Additionally, right-winger Marcus Edwards has been tagged as a suitable alternative to Antony. Having started his career at Tottenham, Edwards is also drawing interest from his former club, adding a layer of complexity to United’s pursuit. Pedro Goncalves, on the other hand, may prove difficult to sign in January, as Sporting are reportedly reluctant to sell.
Photo IMAGO
Amorim’s restructuring ambitions face financial obstacles. Moving Casemiro and Antony, both of whom command high weekly wages, will be challenging. With Casemiro earning £350,000 and Antony £200,000 per week, finding clubs willing to shoulder these expenses remains difficult. TeamTalk highlights that no interested clubs have yet come forward with offers matching these wages, making an immediate exit unlikely.
Photo IMAGO
This financial conundrum is a pressing issue for Manchester United, given that maintaining high-wage players not in the manager’s plans drains resources and limits flexibility in future signings. TeamTalk reports that United’s board supports Amorim’s attempts to recalibrate the wage structure and squad balance. However, the reality of achieving these goals in the January transfer window remains daunting.
For years, we’ve witnessed talented managers enter the club only to find themselves weighed down by legacy contracts and a squad lacking cohesion. Amorim’s plan to clear out players who no longer fit United’s future vision will feel like a breath of fresh air for supporters.
Cutting ties with players like Eriksen and Casemiro isn’t just a move for the books; it’s a signal of intent. Eriksen and Lindelof are undoubtedly talented, but their time at the top appears to have passed. And while Casemiro and Antony came with high hopes, their performances simply haven’t justified their wages. Knowing that Amorim’s potential replacements, like Inacio and Edwards, are young, driven, and less likely to strain the club’s wage bill is a huge comfort.
Photo IMAGO
This strategy of bringing in fresh talent with a connection to the manager’s previous successes bodes well for morale and team unity. Ruben Amorim’s determination to make bold, even controversial moves, gives United fans reason to believe that a new era, led by ambition and tactical vision, is finally on the horizon. For supporters eager to see United regain dominance, these decisions aren’t just managerial—they’re monumental.