Manchester United has made a significant decision regarding winger Facundo Pellistri, as the club has announced that he will be joining Granada on loan. This move comes after the 22-year-old underwent a medical on Wednesday, signing a temporary deal until the end of the season. Pellistri’s loan comes as a result of Erik ten Hag’s side facing a lighter fixture list, following their elimination from European competition before Christmas.
Pellistri’s loan move to Granada will mark his third loan spell since joining Manchester United from Penarol in 2020. Prior to this move, he had two loan spells with Alaves. Although Pellistri has made 14 appearances for United this season, the club has chosen to allow him to leave, opening up opportunities for him to gain more experience and playing time elsewhere.
The departure of Pellistri adds to the growing list of players leaving Old Trafford in the January transfer window. He joins the likes of Donny van de Beek, Jadon Sancho, Sergio Reguilón, Hannibal Mejbri, Daniel Gore, Álvaro Fernández, and Joe Hugill in departing from the club. This significant wave of departures indicates Manchester United’s intent to make room for new signings and reshape the squad.
With Pellistri departing, Erik ten Hag’s options up front become limited, especially following Anthony Martial’s injury, which will keep him out for over two months. The club’s only senior forwards remaining are Rasmus Højlund, Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Alejandro Garnacho. Despite the interest in loaning out Amad, it is likely that he will stay at United beyond the deadline in order to provide depth and support in the attack.
United’s tight budget, driven by Financial Fair Play concerns, has influenced their decision-making during the January transfer window. As a result, the club’s recruitment team is focusing their attention on preparing for the upcoming summer window. This will be the first transfer window under the direct guidance of new minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS team, indicating a potential shift in United’s recruitment strategy and future signings.
Manchester United’s decision to loan Facundo Pellistri to Granada reveals their commitment to providing him with valuable playing time and experience. This move aligns with their strategy of reshaping the squad and making way for new signings. With the January transfer window coming to a close, it remains to be seen what further changes await Manchester United and how they will address their limitations in the attacking department.