Ten Hag handpicks Man Utd forward's next club after making personal approach to push through exit (original) (raw)

Erik ten Hag has told one of his former clubs that they are more than welcome to take Facundo Pellstri on loan from Manchester United for the 2023-24 season, according to reports.

An October 2020 arrival at Old Trafford, Pellistri finally earned his first 10 Man Utd appearances last season. His minor breakthrough came after a couple of loan spells in La Liga with Alaves. Ten Hag has only kept him on the pitch for a full 90 minutes on one occasion so far, though.

Therefore, it may be in Pellistri’s best interests to seek another loan away from Man Utd next season. With that in mind, reports in the Netherlands are suggesting that the winger could be sent to Ten Hag’s homeland.

According to Twente Insite, Ten Hag has personally approached FC Twente – whom he used to play for himself – to offer them Pellistri’s services for the season.

The Eredivisie side have just lost a winger in the shape of Vaclav Cerny to Wolfsburg. Therefore, Ten Hag has spotted a role in the Twente team whereby Pellistri could earn the regular minutes he needs.

Man Utd still have Pellistri under contract for another two years, so this could be a defining season for his future after recent claims he could earn an extension. To stand the best chance of success, he needs to be playing regularly.

However, Twente are not the only suitors for his signature. Even if they are receptive to Ten Hag’s suggestion, they risk competition from Bologna in Serie A, Real Betis in La Liga and Gremio in Brazil.

The report makes a point of clarifying that the final decision will be Pellistri’s, not Ten Hag’s. Therefore, despite the manager’s preference, it is no guarantee that the forward will become a Twente player for a season.

Pellistri planning next move with Ten Hag

Nevertheless, Pellistri has openly admitted he is working alongside Ten Hag to find a suitable landing spot.

After Man Utd’s friendly against Arsenal on Saturday, the 21-year-old said: “Yes, I have spoken to him and we are working together to find the best club, the best way, the best option.

“I am happy with that way because we are all in the same position.

“[I’m hoping] to play. In my position and at my age, what you want is to play. We are looking forward to find the best solution to do that.”

Twente will be in the Europa Conference League qualifiers for the 2023-24 season after finishing fifth in the 2022-23 Eredivisie.