Facundo Pellistri did something pretty special against FC Barcelona this weekend, while away from Man United on loan.
I think it’s fair to say that Facundo Pellistri has certainly divided opinion during his time in Manchester. Some think he’s more than good enough to start regularly. Others believe he’s a great bench player to bring on late. A group reckon he’s just not up to scratch.
From my personal view, I’m not convinced. Pellistri is now 22, while the first half the season, United’s right-wing cupboard was looking threadbare. He still wasn’t playing games with any regularity. That tells us all what Erik ten Hag things about the man from Uruguay.
As a result, Pellistri would head to Granada on loan for the second half of the season. This move was designed to offer the winger those regular starts that his natural talent deserves. He’s now being granted those opportunities – and my, is he taking them…
Pellistri’s Granada would head to the Camp Nou this weekend, securing a 3-3 draw against one of the best club sides in the world. The United loaned had a direct hand in the result, scoring once and assisting another.
In doing so, the United attacker set a record, becoming the youngest player to score and provide an assist at an away game in the Camp Nou, since Samuel Eto’o achieved the feat back in April 2000.
Obviously, that’s not an easy task. Pellistri is 22 now and no doubt it’s the fact that he’s being offered consistent minutes, which is leading to on-field success.
United haven’t been able to offer him that chance, hence, his potential has remained somewhat hidden away. Granada are utilising Pellistri correctly and regularly, to their credit.
No doubt Pellistri enjoyers will use this as an argument as to why Ten Hag should have played him more. They may well be right as let’s be honest, Antony has hardly set the world alight this season. Marcus Rashford, too.
A lot can happen in football. If Pellistri was to finish out this season strong for Granada, then there’s every chance United will give him one final opportunity to come back to the Theatre of Dreams and prove his worth.
However, if his time in Granada now fizzles out with a whimper, there’s a genuine possibility he never plays for United again. That’s how fine the margins are at the very highest level.
For what it’s worth, I do like Pellistri the player. I just don’t think he’s cut out for the very highest level. He’s much like Anthony Elanga in that regard. Capable of a world-class performance every now and then, without doing it regularly enough to play for a side who are vying for trophies year-in-year-out.
What is good news for United is that performances like this will only raise his transfer value, assuming the club do look to sell Pellistri over the coming months.
Do you think Facundo Pellistri is good enough for Man United? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
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