In a stark indication of how times are changing at Manchester United, there are only 6 current squad members who have played more than 100 league games for the club.
So many centurions have gone over the last year in this massive clearout. Players like Rio Ferdinand, Patrice Evra, Nemanja Vidic and Danny Welbeck have left the club while experienced loanees like Chicharito and Nani, are unlikely to return for long before permanent moves.
So that leaves just Antonio Valencia (155), Michael Carrick (262), Wayne Rooney (334), Jonny Evans (130), Rafael da Silva (109) and David de Gea (125).
This list could feasibly be cut to two or three come September as Manchester United continue what has been a remarkable transition at the club. Here are the others who could leave.
Jonny Evans
Even his most ardent fans would admit that he’s had a stinker this season. He had the chance to grasp the nettle as LVG’s most experienced centre back last summer. But injury and quite awful form have lead many to assume that he will make way for someone like Mats Hummels this summer.
The talented Northern Irishman has been absolutely pony this season
Rafael da Silva
Fergie loved him and we have always been fans. At his best he’s an absolute menace and a great athlete. But he has failed to mature at Manchester United and an exit may be the only option if the 24 year old wants a regular starting berth. It would be sad to see him go.
Antonio Valencia
Has been a regular starter for Louis van Gaal but the sense is that he remains a stop-gap choice until a summer recruit replaces him. But Louis should decide to keep him on as a useful and adaptable squad member.
David De Gea
Manchester United rarely let the contracts of their big stars run down to just a year. In the case of De Gea, this would suggest that he has had his head turned by Madrid. Meanwhile, rather intriguingly, Victor Valdes watches on from the bench. United will be desperate to keep De Gea but may have a big decision to make in the summer – get a return on the initial investment of around £20m or let him go for nothing next year. Hopefully a new contract will put an end to all this nonsense because Manchester United won’t find a better keeper anywhere.
United fans: who would you keep?
blis
Apr 8, 2015 at 8:25 am
Valenc,degea and maybe refa