Not Garnacho – Ten Hag has found Man United’s next Antonio Valencia in “magnificent” £20k-p/w starlet – opinion

Facundo Pellistri: The New Old-School Winger for Manchester United

In a commanding Carabao Cup victory against Crystal Palace, Manchester United secured back-to-back wins with goals from Alejandro Garnacho, Casemiro, and Anthony Martial.

The victory showcased the team’s depth and potential, as manager Erik ten Hag made seven changes to the starting lineup, opting for rotation, a departure from his usual approach.

With notable names like Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford on the bench, the match provided a golden opportunity for the rising stars of Manchester United to shine.

Among these emerging talents, Facundo Pellistri earned a starting spot, generating excitement among fans who have eagerly awaited more playing time for the Uruguayan sensation.

Pellistri, who arrived at Old Trafford from Penarol in 2020 for a £9 million deal, has made just 15 appearances thus far.

However, his impressive performance against Crystal Palace suggested that he could become a prominent figure for the club in the absence of Antony and Jadon Sancho.

Playing in his favored right flank position, the 5-foot-8 winger proved to be a valuable asset throughout the match.

Despite occasional struggles with ball retention, as he lost possession 17 times, Pellistri showcased his ability to take on defenders, completing three of five attempted dribbles.

One standout moment saw him expertly maneuver past an opponent in his own half before sprinting up the wing, displaying his explosive speed, which has already made him a favorite among United fans.

During the game, there was an instance where Pellistri could have potentially won a penalty for his team following a robust challenge from Chris Richards in the box.

This incident underscored the threat he poses in the final third.

Former Manchester United star Owen Hargreaves described Pellistri as an “old-school” winger who loves taking on defenders with his speed and agility.

In an era where many wingers tend to cut inside, Pellistri’s ability to get to the byline and challenge defenders is reminiscent of a legendary figure in the club’s history, Antonio Valencia.

As the season progresses, fans and pundits alike will be eager to see more of Facundo Pellistri, who has the potential to bring a touch of nostalgia to the Manchester United faithful with his exciting style of play.