Almost a year after his dismissal, former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag could be vindicated over comments made about Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, who are both linked with the exit
Scott McTominay celebrates the 2-1 victory with Erik ten Hag the head coach / manager of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Brentford
Lightning could strike twice at Man United after Erik ten Hag's reluctance to sell Scott McTominay was proved correct
(Image: Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images)
Manchester United could leave themselves open to further transfer humiliation if they decide to sell Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho this weekend. And it may leave more openings for Erik ten Hag to be proved correct yet again, almost a year on from his Old Trafford exit.
A pattern has emerged at United in recent years, whereby players who couldn't thrive for them have been loaned or sold only to impress elsewhere. Marcus Rashford (Aston Villa) and Antony (Real Betis) each enjoyed resurgences on loan at other clubs last season, while Anthony Elanga, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Alvaro Carreras have undergone similar transformations after being sold.
But no example appears more wasteful than Scott McTominay, who was named Serie A Player of the Year after helping guide Napoli to the league title in his first season after leaving United. In that sense, one can envision how other teams could get a stronger tune out of obvious young talents like Mainoo and Garnacho if they were to leave this summer.
Ten Hag made it clear at the time of McTominay's move to Naples last summer that it was not his decision: "I am a little mixed. I am very happy for him but I would prefer not to lose him because he was so important for our team.
"He was at Manchester United for over 22 years. But unfortunately, it’s the rules. You have to discuss the rules to do sales. Obviously, homegrown players, academy players, bring more value.
"It’s not the right thing to do, but for everyone, for all parts, it’s a good deal. For Scott, he is happy with it. Of course, for Napoli, a very good player, but also for us."
Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United looks on ahead of the Premier League match between Fulham and Manchester United at Craven Cottage
Kobbie Mainoo is yet to make a Premier League appearance so far this season
(Image: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Ten Hag, who gave Mainoo his first-team debut at United, poured praise upon the player in August 2024 when he hinted the youngster has what it takes to one day become a "perfect midfielder." That was in reference to the player's ability to do well in all aspects of his midfield responsibilities.
Once lauded as the greatest talent to come out of United's academy in some time, Mainoo suddenly finds himself on the fringes under Ruben Amorim. The 20-year-old hasn't played a minute in the Premier League so far this term and has reportedly requested a loan away, though United are understood to have swiftly rejected the idea.
And while Garnacho's stock at Old Trafford has sunk as the player appears set for a move to Chelsea, he too was once lauded by his old boss. It was only 12 months ago Ten Hag spared no expense in putting Garnacho on a pedestal as one of United's biggest gems.
The Dutchman was asked last summer whether the South American could break into the elite category and responded: "A world-class player? He has to go a long way. He has high potential.
Alejandro Garnacho of Manchester United acknowledges the fans after the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Aston Villa
Alejandro Garnacho appears to be on the verge of joining Chelsea
(Image: Getty Images)
"He showed last season he can contribute and be a starting XI player. To make the jump and become a world-class player, it starts with very hard work. That brought him to where he is now and that will bring him to being that world-class player. I agree he has the potential."
Garnacho's demeanour is what appears to have landed him in Amorim's bad books ahead of what looks a likely move to west London. The Argentinian was made to train away from the squad in December 2024, around the same time he and his brother were implicated in a report suggesting someone within the squad was leaking team news.
Over the past two seasons, captain Bruno Fernandes (34 goals) and striker Rasmus Hojlund (26) are the only United players to have outscored Garnacho (21). And for a team that's been lacking in the attacking department, it's easier to see why a rival would spot an opportunity in recruiting him.
United were mocked by some fans for selling McTominay for less than £30million given what he went on to achieve so quickly in Italy. Mainoo may be kept around for the time being, but there's a real risk the £40m figure attached to 21-year-old Garnacho's name is a sign history could be set to repeat.
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