The Man Utd Five: Ousted but Not Out – What’s Next for the Bomb Squad?
Ruben Amorim’s Plan in Flux
Manchester United’s pre-season is underway, but not everything has gone to plan for Ruben Amorim. Just six weeks ago, the United head coach confidently outlined his vision for the squad, stating he had a clear idea of how he wanted the team to look. Yet, as the first friendly against Leeds approaches, the reality is far murkier.
Five players—Marcus Rashford, Antony, Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, and Tyrell Malacia—remain in limbo, training separately from the main squad. With only Matheus Cunha’s £62.5m signing completed, the question lingers: How will Amorim reshape this team if the unwanted quintet stay?
The Bomb Squad’s Exile
On July 4th, United made it official—these five players were excluded from first-team training, with Rashford’s iconic No. 10 shirt even reassigned to new signing Cunha. Their access to Carrington has been restricted, permitted only for medical purposes once the first-team sessions conclude.
This isn’t just a temporary freeze-out; it’s a clear signal to rival clubs: United want these players gone. The ousted but not out contingent now find themselves in a difficult position, with the club negotiating potential exits from a weakened stance.
The Financial Dilemma
United spent over £167m on Antony, Sancho, and Malacia alone, while Rashford and Garnacho—valuable as homegrown assets—represent another £82m in potential revenue. However, finding buyers willing to meet United’s demands has proven challenging.
– Marcus Rashford: Linked with Barcelona, but his hefty wages are a roadblock unless he accepts a pay cut.
– Jadon Sancho: Juventus has shown interest, but their priority remains signing Francisco Conceição permanently.
– Antony: A return to Real Betis could materialize, but not at United’s desired price.
– Alejandro Garnacho: Chelsea, Napoli, and Atlético Madrid have been rumored, but no serious bids yet.
– Tyrell Malacia: Celtic has been floated as a possible destination.
With the transfer deadline looming, United may be forced to subsidize wages or accept loan deals—far from ideal when the ousted but not out players represent the club’s best chance to fund new signings.
Alternative Routes to Raise Funds
If United can’t offload the bomb squad, they may need to explore other sales:
– Sell-on Clauses: Already in play, with Álvaro Carreras’ move to Real Madrid netting United £7.6m.
– Youth Talent: Maxi Oyedele’s potential transfer to Strasbourg could bring in £2m.
– First-Team Sales: Kobbie Mainoo and Toby Collyer are under long-term contracts but could attract interest if United become desperate.
However, with Bryan Mbeumo’s pending arrival and Bruno Fernandes rejecting Saudi interest, competition for midfield roles will be fierce. Casemiro, Mason Mount, and Manuel Ugarte already provide depth—meaning further sales may be necessary to balance the squad.
What Lies Ahead for Amorim’s Squad?
Amorim has publicly stated he can manage with a smaller squad, especially without European football adding to the fixture congestion. Yet, uncertainties remain across the pitch:
– Defence: Injuries have plagued Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martínez, while new signings Leny Yoro and Ayden Haven add competition.
– Goalkeeping: André Onana’s injury gives Radek Vitek a chance, but Altay Bayındır’s underwhelming performances raise concerns.
– Attack: Rasmus Højlund’s future is in doubt after Amorim pursued Liam Delap and Viktor Gyökeres unsuccessfully. Could a surprise move for Ollie Watkins or Jamie Vardy emerge?
Final Thoughts: Will Clarity Arrive Before the Season?
When Amorim spoke confidently in Hong Kong, he envisioned a reshaped squad by pre-season. Instead, the ousted but not out players remain, transfer plans are stalling, and fans are left wondering: Where does United go from here?
With the Premier League opener against Arsenal fast approaching, the clock is ticking. If clarity doesn’t come soon, Amorim’s first season could begin under a cloud of uncertainty—exactly what he hoped to avoid.
For now, the Manchester United Five remain in the shadows, waiting for their futures to be decided. And until they’re gone, the rebuild can’t truly begin.
