The January transfer window has come and gone with Manchester United bringing in three players via the loan market to fill the gaps in the squad.
In addition to innings, Erik ten Hag also had to deal with departures with quite a few youth academy stars wanting to experience men’s football, while some first-team players were also looking for regular minutes.
Two players who were constantly linked with a loan spell away from the club during the winter window were Anthony Elanga and Facundo Pellistri.
Pellistri had attracted a lot of loan interest
And after long-term injuries to two midfielders – Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay – as well as continued health problems for striker Anthony Martial – the Dutchman deemed it prudent to stick with both wingers.
Pellistri had sparked interest from around the world with Valencia, Flamengo, Botafogo, Bologna and championship team Watford all interested in adding the Uruguayan to their ranks.
*Pellistri Transfer News* ????????????Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag canceled Facundo Pellistri’s loan at deadline to Watford last month, as Football Insider said. #MUFC #ManUtd #ManUnited #ManchesterUnited #MUMUfootball pic.twitter.com/L9AZNmRlTO
– MUMU Football (@MUMUfootball) February 5, 2023
Some teams even wanted to include a buyout clause at the end of the loan period, but in the end, the former Ajax manager blocked every one of those attempts.
According to Football Insider, the Uruguayan international was very close to going to Watford, but the coach disconnected at the last moment.
“Man United canceled the move of Facundo Pellistri to Watford on the day of the deadline
Watford loan canceled on deadline day
“The 21-year-old winger had agreed to terms to join the Hornets on loan for the remainder of the season, but Erik ten Hag pulled the plug on the move at the last minute,” the report added.
United’s striker options don’t exactly inspire confidence and with Jadon Sancho not yet fully fit to start matches, the 21-year-old could still solve the club’s woes.
“The Red Devils coach told club officials to cancel the move after deciding the Uruguayan might have a first-team role to play in the coming months.”
Pellistri has had to wait for his opportunities since signing with the Red Devils in the 2020-21 season. But he eventually made his Ten Hag debut against Charlton Athletic in the EFL Cup.
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