The Athletic FC Podcast How do Man United shift their unwanted players?
Jul 9, 2025
Mark Critchley, a Manchester football writer for The Athletic, and Phil Hay, the Lead writer of The Athletic FC newsletter, dive into Manchester United's struggle to offload unwanted players like Marcus Rashford. They examine contract intricacies and the impact on team dynamics. Financial pressures and declining player valuations complicate transfers, making it harder for the club to navigate the market. The duo also reflects on how management changes could affect player futures, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding Rashford and the broader challenges for the club.
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Weakened Bargaining in Sales
- Manchester United's bargaining position is weakened by publicly confirming no return for these players.
- Historically, United rarely complete early sales, and this summer they face pressure to sell for financial reinvestment.
Overvalued Players Hurt United
- United overpaid for players like Sancho and Antony, and these values have since plummeted dramatically.
- Rashford's current performance and wages don't justify his past high valuation, complicating transfer prospects.
Wage Burden Blocks Moves
- Rashford and Sancho's high wages make finding suitors difficult as few clubs can or want to pay such salaries.
- United may need to subsidize wages to move these players, complicating sales further.