Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, has stated that Donny van de Beek and Brandon Williams might depart the club before the transfer window shuts.
This announcement follows the team’s disappointing 2-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Saturday.
United began the game strongly at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and had a strong claim for a penalty. However, as the first half progressed, Spurs asserted themselves more convincingly.
In the second half, Tottenham clearly outperformed United and ultimately reaped the rewards with goals from Pape Matar Sarr and a Lisandro Martinez own goal.
Following the defeat, Ten Hag faced questions, including those about the absence of Donny van de Beek, Brandon Williams, and Harry Maguire from the squad.
Must Read: Aaron Wan-Bissaka praises Erik ten Hag’s influence on the team’s gameplay
While Maguire was sidelined due to a minor injury, the manager confirmed that Van de Beek and Williams are seeking new challenges outside of the club.
As quoted by the Manchester Evening News, he said:
“Yesterday, the final training, ‘H’ fell out with a small issue and after September 1 everything can change, but we need players who are totally with their heads in our team.”
“And, I wouldn’t say the players you just mentioned, they are not, but it’s also obvious in this moment they are looking for something else [on Van de Beek and Williams].”
Van de Beek had an impressive pre-season with United, including scoring a crucial goal against Lyon and providing two assists in a 3-2 loss to Borussia Dortmund.
However, despite his preseason form, he doesn’t seem to be in the manager’s starting lineup plans.
Bruno Fernandes is the established starter in the attacking midfield position, making it unlikely for Van de Beek to displace him.
Also Read: Ansu Fati decides to leave Barcelona amid interest from Manchester United
Additionally, with Mason Mount and Christian Eriksen now in the squad for the number eight role, the former Ajax player faces slim chances of securing a spot ahead of them.
It’s no surprise that he’s exploring potential moves elsewhere. Real Sociedad showed interest in signing him recently but opted for Arsen Zakharyan instead. The Dutch star is likely hoping for more offers in the coming days.
As for Williams, he played as a backup to Luke Shaw during pre-season due to Tyrell Malacia’s injury.
While Malacia is still recovering, United have indicated that the defender can seek a new opportunity away from Old Trafford. Diogo Dalot is a capable left-back, which might be a contributing factor.
United are looking to generate funds from the departures of these two players to potentially invest in new signings.
