Coming live from Old Trafford, “Leaving Manchester United now feels like walking away in our toughest hour,” Bruno Fernandes said through tears, his voice heavy with emotion. “I don’t have much more to say, but you’ve been a part of this family, and your absence will be deeply felt. I wish you nothing but success and happiness in the next chapter of your career. You’ll always have a place in our hearts and in the story of this great club. Once a Red, always a Red.
Ruben Amorim, having managed six games as Manchester United’s head coach, is becoming well-acquainted with the players at his disposal. However, with the January transfer window on the horizon, the club faces significant financial constraints and challenges adhering to Profitability and Sustainability Regulations. These factors necessitate prioritizing player sales before considering new acquisitions.
Among the players most likely to depart are Victor Lindelof and Christian Eriksen, whose contracts are set to expire next summer. The club has yet to initiate renewal discussions, and Amorim reportedly harbors doubts about their suitability for his long-term plans.
Christian Eriksen, who enjoyed a key role under Erik ten Hag with nine starts earlier in the season, has seen his opportunities diminish significantly under Amorim’s tenure. The Danish midfielder has made just six appearances under the new manager, starting only once. Amorim’s high-energy playing style appears to highlight Eriksen’s physical limitations, and the return of Kobbie Mainoo from injury has further pushed Eriksen down the pecking order. Consequently, a move away in January seems likely, with Major League Soccer emerging as a potential destination.
Victor Lindelof’s situation appears even more certain, as he has yet to feature in Amorim’s plans. Persistent injury issues and his low ranking among the club’s defensive options make his departure almost inevitable. Despite his past connection with Amorim from their shared time at Benfica, the Swedish defender seems surplus to requirements, particularly with the return to fitness of Leny Yoro. The club is keen to find a buyer for Lindelof during the January window.
Lindelof has reportedly drawn interest from several clubs, including Benfica and teams in Italy, Germany, Spain, and the Saudi Pro League. Domestically, Leicester City, now under the management of former United interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy, has expressed interest in a loan deal. While Lindelof’s contract runs until 2025, United may entertain a temporary arrangement with Leicester, potentially involving a loan fee and an option to buy if the club avoids relegation. Such a move would also ease the financial burden of Lindelof’s £120,000-a-week wages.
Similarly, Eriksen has attracted attention from European and MLS clubs. Given his reduced role under Amorim, United is open to offers that could provide financial relief and allow for reinvestment in the squad.
Amorim is eager to bolster the team, particularly with a left-sided wingback to complement his tactical preferences. However, any new signings in January hinge on the club’s ability to generate funds through player sales. If Lindelof and Eriksen are successfully offloaded, the support of new majority shareholders INEOS could enable Amorim to bring in reinforcements. Until then, the focus remains on facilitating player exits to prepare for squad enhancements in the latter half of the season.
