Facundo Pellistri has his sights set on seizing the opportunity created by the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Manchester United’s right-wing options.
As Manchester United prepares to reveal their starting lineup and bench for the upcoming clash against Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford, one name will undoubtedly dominate discussions.
The recent international break has largely revolved around Jadon Sancho, following his public response to Erik ten Hag’s decision to omit him from the squad for the 3-1 loss to Arsenal over a week ago. Sancho’s absence was attributed to his underwhelming performance in training, leading him to respond defiantly in a social media post that garnered over 62.2 million views on the platform formerly known as Twitter.
Erik ten Hag and Jadon Sancho are having a conflict
Since Sancho’s statement on Sunday, Ten Hag, due to the international break, has not made any public statements. However, his upcoming media interaction will likely revolve around this high-profile situation.
Nevertheless, Ten Hag’s immediate focus will undoubtedly be on the upcoming clash against Brighton. Securing three points against the Seagulls will be a top priority for the Dutch manager as United faces a packed schedule of three fixtures in just eight days, including matches against Burnley in the Premier League and Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Given the tight fixture schedule, rotation is almost inevitable, but the right flank may pose a challenge for Ten Hag. With Sancho’s status uncertain, Antony sidelined, Amad recovering from injury, and Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford favoring the left flank, Facundo Pellistri could be the answer to United’s right-wing dilemma.
Facundo Pellistri deserves to be unleashed
Facundo Pellistri, a Uruguayan winger with a traditional style, is known for his willingness to take on defenders, beat them, and deliver crosses. With two impactful substitute appearances already this season, he has earned the opportunity for his first Premier League start. Since joining Old Trafford from FC Penarol almost three years ago, he has displayed remarkable patience and deserves a chance to start against Brighton.
Manchester United desperately needs a positive performance and result this weekend, and Pellistri’s direct and exciting style of play could provide the spark needed to lift the team’s spirits. United fans are eager to see him in action and inject a fresh dynamic into the squad.
However, it’s worth noting that Pellistri has been overlooked in the past when opportunities arose. Ten Hag, like any manager, has experimented with various tactics since arriving at Manchester United, including deploying Bruno Fernandes on the right wing at times.
Bruno Fernandes (left) could be a hindrance to Facundo Pellistri and his hopes of earning regular game time
While Fernandes played in a wide role on occasion last season to bolster the midfield against stronger opponents, Brighton does not fall into the same category as Liverpool or Manchester City. Nevertheless, the presence of Sofyan Amrabat, Scott McTominay, and potentially Mason Mount in midfield may prompt Ten Hag to push Fernandes to the wing to accommodate an extra midfielder. This decision could indicate a degree of caution against Brighton, with a potentially different approach planned for the Bayern Munich match four days later.
Nonetheless, Facundo Pellistri is a true winger with international experience and deserves his chance in the spotlight. His exciting style of play could be the boost that Manchester United needs in this crucial fixture.
