5 Wingers Manchester United Should Target Immediately.
Antony, much like Marcus Rashford at Aston Villa, has experienced a resurgence since joining Real Betis on loan. Even before the move, TBR Football reported that Manchester United believed Antony could flourish under Manuel Pellegrini, similar to how Vitor Roque revitalized his career. This belief has been justified, as Antony has registered two goals and two assists in five La Liga games, proving that his struggles at Old Trafford were not indicative of his true potential.
Despite his poor form at Manchester United, the club’s staff and decision-makers are left questioning why he has thrived so quickly in Spain. Ruben Amorim attributed Antony’s success to the less physically demanding nature of La Liga, suggesting the former Ajax winger lacked the physicality needed to excel in the Premier League. Speaking to TNT Sports, Amorim emphasized that physical attributes are crucial for success in English football, a factor Antony seemingly struggled with.
Considering Amorim’s stance, Manchester United should explore options for wingers who possess greater physical attributes. Additionally, a contingency plan may be necessary if Alejandro Garnacho departs in the summer.
Jamie Gittens: The Opposite of Antony
One potential target is Jamie Gittens, who is enjoying a breakthrough season at Borussia Dortmund. The former Manchester City prospect has accumulated 11 goals and four assists across all competitions this season. According to Bundesliga’s official statistics, Gittens’ top speed of 35.96 km/h ranks him among the league’s fastest players.
This speed would particularly appeal to Amorim, as Gittens effortlessly beats defenders, exemplified by his solo goal against Bayern Munich where he left Konrad Laimer behind. More impressively, he already delivers an end product, in contrast to Antony, who managed only 17 goals and 19 assists in two-and-a-half seasons at United.
However, if United pursue Gittens, they may face competition from Arsenal, who could present a more attractive option given their current superiority over the Red Devils.
Antoine Semenyo: A Proven Premier League Performer
Unlike Gittens, who has risen through German football, Antoine Semenyo is already thriving in the Premier League. From his early days at Bristol City to becoming a key player for AFC Bournemouth, Semenyo has demonstrated his ability to succeed in English football. Standing at 6’0, he is physically dominant and much stronger than Antony.
Pep Guardiola acknowledged Semenyo’s impact, stating that Manchester City struggled to match Bournemouth’s intensity in their 2-1 defeat. Semenyo’s aggressive playstyle, evidenced by his 130 duels won and 23 possessions regained in the final third (as of November), highlights his effectiveness. Additionally, with seven goals and four assists, he offers versatility, capable of playing on either flank and potentially replacing both Antony and Garnacho.
Geovany Quenda: A Familiar Face for Amorim
Ruben Amorim is reportedly keen on bringing Geovany Quenda to Manchester United, making him a logical candidate to replace Antony. The 17-year-old right-winger has already operated under Amorim at Sporting CP, even adapting to a wing-back role when necessary.
Quenda’s most striking attribute is his physical readiness for senior football despite his age. His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively suggests he could succeed in the Premier League. Though he has only managed two goals and two assists under Amorim, his versatility and potential make him an enticing prospect.
Matias Soule: A System-Fit for Manchester United
Matias Soule emerges as another viable alternative for United. The left-footed right-winger, currently playing for Roma, mirrors Antony’s position but offers more tactical flexibility. Unlike Antony, Soule can also operate as an attacking midfielder, fitting seamlessly into Amorim’s system, which emphasizes multiple attacking midfielders.
Soule’s dribbling ability allows him to beat defenders both with speed and close control. While his performances at Roma have not matched his stellar form on loan at Frosinone, his 6’0 frame and technical skill suggest he could develop further under Amorim’s guidance.
Rafael Leao: The Dream Signing
If Manchester United could secure one marquee winger, it would undoubtedly be Rafael Leao. The AC Milan star, under contract until 2028, is one of Europe’s most complete forwards. While a move to Old Trafford seems improbable given United’s current struggles, Chelsea’s interest in Leao—despite their absence from the Champions League—indicates that an approach isn’t entirely out of the question.
Leao’s statistics highlight his consistency, with 74 goals and 55 assists in 247 appearances for Milan. His elite combination of pace, technical skill, and physical presence (standing at 6’2) makes him an ideal signing for Manchester United, should they manage to persuade him with their historic stature rather than their recent shortcomings.
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Conclusion
Manchester United’s need for physically dominant and productive wingers has never been more apparent, especially in light of Amorim’s comments about Antony. While signing someone like Leao remains a distant dream, players such as Gittens, Semenyo, Quenda, and Soule present more realistic options that align with the profile Amorim desires in his wide players. If United wish to build a more competitive squad, addressing their shortcomings on the flanks should be a priority.
5 Wingers Manchester United Should Target Immediately.
