I thought Facundo Pellistri looked bright when he came on in the second half of Manchester United’s semi-final clash against Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup.
Pellistri, who joined United during the 2020 summer transfer window under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, was introduced in the 71st minute, coming on for Antony, who played well, and I thought the Uruguayan demonstrated that he can be a useful option for United for the remainder of the season.
There has been speculation linking him a move away from Old Trafford, but I feel as though in the last two games in the Carabao Cup against Charlton Athletic and Nottingham Forest, Pellistri can offer United something different with his directness and his ability to track back (which is something that Antony is doing as well). Even though a loan move might be good for his development, I think he is better off staying at United for the time being because he will get more opportunities as United do have a lot of games to navigate and fresh legs will be needed.
Great win! Lets go for the next one 👊🏼@ManUtd ❤️#CarabaoCup pic.twitter.com/Zxee7NpegU
— Facu Pellistri (@FPellistri07) January 25, 2023
Pellistri produced a good cross for Wout Weghorst but the Dutchman couldn’t direct it towards goal. However, the United man just needs to be a bit careful as he gave a free kick away in a dangerous area, nevertheless, the more experience he gets the better he will get at avoiding those situations.
After a bright cameo against Forest, I think Erik ten Hag should start Pellistri from the start against Reading in the FA Cup on Saturday because not only has he shown that he deserves to make his full Manchester United debut but he has also had to be patient.
Another benefit for Pellistri staying at United is that he have the ability to understand what it takes to win, as he will be working with players on a regular basis who have been there and seen it, which can only benefit the Uruguayan international, who made his debut at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year.