Manchester United are poised for a significant January clear-out, with two first-team players closing in on moves away from Old Trafford. This comes in the wake of the club's decision to sack manager Ruben Amorim earlier this week.
Amorim's Sacking Triggers Squad Reshuffle
The Portuguese coach was dismissed on Monday, just 14 months into his tenure, following a dismal run of form. United finished a lowly 15th in the Premier League last season and showed little improvement this term. Former midfielder Darren Fletcher has been placed in interim charge and will lead the team against Burnley on Wednesday.
The club is expected to appoint a caretaker manager until the summer before securing a permanent successor. Amorim's departure was reportedly hastened by a rift with football director Jason Wilcox over the lack of January transfer activity, despite the club spending over £200 million on new signings last summer.
Mainoo Stays, Zirkzee and Ugarte Head for Exit
One major beneficiary of the managerial change is academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo. The 20-year-old midfielder, who had asked to leave twice due to a lack of game-time under Amorim, is now set to stay and fight for his place. Club legend Rio Ferdinand labelled Mainoo the 'biggest winner' from the sacking.
In contrast, striker Joshua Zirkzee is nearing a move to Serie A side Roma. The £40 million signing from the Erik ten Hag era has struggled for consistency and minutes, prompting a likely loan or permanent switch to revive his World Cup hopes.
Another player seemingly on the way out is midfielder Manuel Ugarte. Reports from Turkey indicate he has agreed personal terms with Galatasaray. His signing has been heavily criticised, with ex-United star Nicky Butt stating Ugarte was 'not a Manchester United midfielder in a million years'.
What Next for United's January Plans?
With Fletcher at the helm temporarily, United's transfer strategy is in flux. The club had been looking at central midfield reinforcements, but moves for players like Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton now appear unlikely. Amorim's desire for new wing-backs is also no longer a pressing issue for the incoming management.
The immediate focus is on stabilising the squad and league position, with the long-term project set to be defined by the next permanent manager's vision in the summer.
