The strained relationship between Rúben Amorim and several Manchester United players could complicate the Red Devils’ efforts to refresh their squad. The English club is actively seeking to offload players who are no longer in the manager’s or board’s plans.
Garnacho pushing for Chelsea move
According to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, 21-year-old Alejandro Garnacho is determined to join Chelsea. While Manchester United value the winger at over £50m, the Blues have reportedly offered only half that amount. Garnacho has barely featured under Amorim this season.
The youngster also received an offer from Bayern Munich, but declined, insisting on a move to Stamford Bridge. Earlier in the year, he publicly clashed with Amorim following the Europa League final, when he complained about limited playing time. He came on only in the 71st minute after Mason Mount was selected to start.
“The final will influence my decision, but it’s about the whole season and the club’s situation. I’ll try to make the most of the summer and see what happens then,” Garnacho said at the time.
Tensions escalated after he was substituted during the first half of United’s win over Ipswich Town, leading to an unusual punishment: he paid for the entire squad’s dinner. Amorim later explained that Garnacho had gone to the dressing room during the match because he was soaked and watched from there, not the bench.
After ups and downs, the relationship officially ended at the close of the 2024/25 season. Amorim confirmed he would remain in charge for 2025/26, allowing Garnacho to seek a new club. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, the Portuguese manager informed the squad at Carrington that Garnacho was not part of his plans.
Lack of squad space complicates departures
Alongside Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho, Tyrell Malacia, and Rasmus Hojlund are also outside Amorim’s plans this season. Manchester United have struggled to facilitate their exits.
In Sancho’s case—earning €250,000 per week—he turned down a move to Roma over an unsatisfactory contract offer. Chelsea and other clubs have faced similar obstacles. Latest reports suggest Roma is preparing an improved bid, with Manchester United reportedly accepting a proposal close to €20m (£17m). Sancho’s contract expires next summer, leaving United under pressure to cash in.
Brazilian winger Antony is expected to move permanently to Spain’s Betis, where he has impressed on loan. However, Betis’ financial constraints complicate negotiations, with United demanding at least €38 million. Antony’s agent has also suggested a potential move to Saudi Arabia.
Dutch left-back Tyrell Malacia, signed by former coach Erik ten Hag, returned from an unsuccessful loan at PSV. Roma or Atalanta are considered likely destinations.
Danish striker Rasmus Hojlund’s future remains uncertain despite the signing of Slovenian Benjamin Sesko to share attacking duties. According to A Bola, Hojlund has been linked with AC Milan and was even spotted watching United’s 1-0 loss to Arsenal from the stands. Amorim reportedly said Hojlund must compete for his place, with his next steps yet to be determined. Fulham and Serie A champions Napoli—seeking a replacement for injured Romelu Lukaku—are also mentioned as potential destinations.
This article was originally published on Trivela.
