Manchester United’s pre-season preparations have been overshadowed by the looming departures of Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, with both players seemingly out of favor with new manager Ruben Amorim. The Red Devils are closing in on offloading the pair, with Rashford set to join Barcelona and Garnacho attracting interest from Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Napoli.
Rashford’s move to Barcelona is almost finalized, with the Spanish giants agreeing to take the England international on an initial loan with a €35 million buy option. Crucially for United, Barca will cover Rashford’s £325,000-a-week wages, easing the financial burden on the Red Devils. Rashford’s departure comes after a disappointing season under Amorim, with the Portuguese coach reportedly concerned about Rashford’s influence around the club. A loan spell at Aston Villa in January did little to change Amorim’s mind, and Rashford has since set his sights on a move to Barcelona, a club he has long admired.
Garnacho, meanwhile, is the subject of interest from several clubs, with Chelsea emerging as frontrunners. The Blues are plotting an opening bid for the Argentina international, with manager Enzo Maresca seeking assurances that Garnacho will not disrupt the harmony in his squad. United ideally want £50 million for Garnacho but could accept a lower price if the deal is structured favorably. The 21-year-old has rejected a lucrative offer to join Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, preferring to continue playing at the highest level in Europe.
Amad Diallo, who is close friends with both Rashford and Garnacho, has responded to questions about their potential departures. When asked about Rashford’s move to Barcelona, Diallo wished him well but emphasized his focus on Manchester United. “Well, the only thing I can say is good luck to him, but I’m more focused on United and my team,” Diallo said. Regarding Garnacho, Diallo stated that it was not his problem and that he was more concerned with the team’s development. “I think this is not really my problem. The only thing I’m thinking right now is how we will learn together as a team and yeah, that’s the only thing I’m trying to think about right now,” he added.
The departures of Rashford and Garnacho could significantly impact United’s squad dynamics and playing style. Amorim has made it clear that he prefers a 3-4-2-1 formation, with two No 10s and wing-backs, rather than traditional wingers. This tactical shift has left Rashford and Garnacho surplus to requirements, and their exits could pave the way for new signings that fit Amorim’s system.
United are also in the market for a new No 8, with an agreement reportedly reached for a Spanish midfielder. The Red Devils are said to be close to signing Viktor Gyokeres, a move that could further reshape the squad under Amorim’s leadership.
The impending departures of Rashford and Garnacho, coupled with potential new signings, suggest that United are undergoing a significant transition. Amorim’s vision for the team is taking shape, and the coming months will be crucial in determining the success of his tenure at Old Trafford. The developments also highlight the challenges facing Premier League clubs in adapting to new managerial philosophies and the ever-evolving demands of the modern game.