Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has insisted that Facundo Pellistri has a future at Manchester United, despite the winger’s desire to leave the club.
The 21-year-old made his first-team debut for the Red Devils on Tuesday evening, coming on as a late substitute in a 3-0 win over Charlton Athletic in the EFL Cup quarter-finals.
The attacker made an impression on the field and set up Marcus Rashford for the game’s second goal late in the game.
Ten Hag praised the Uruguay international’s performance after the game and insisted that the forwards is still in his plans for the future, despite speculations of a possible exit.
“I see a future in him. He is doing really well and we have to see what is the best [for him]. He is progressing. Against Everton [in a behind-closed doors friendly], I was really happy with his performance,” Ten Hag told reporters.
“I was happy with his performance at the World Cup so his progress is really good and now he is coming on and has an effect. So that’s the next step that I say: ‘well done Pelli, keep going’.
“I mentioned already Pellistri came on and it was a debut. It was not long but he was really lively, some good actions and also the assist on the second goal.”
the day has come! 🤯
happy to make my official debut! ♥️ pic.twitter.com/V9vcEyXM5M
— Facu Pellistri (@FPellistri07) January 10, 2023
Pellistri appeared three times for Uruguay at the 2022 World Cup, starting two of his country’s three Group H matches against South Korea and Ghana.
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The forward joined Man United from Penarol in August 2020, but he’s yet to break into the first team, spending two loan spells at Alaves during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons.
Pellistri has been on the bench for seven Premier League games this season and will now try to make the squad against Manchester City on Saturday.
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