Manchester United are heading into a transformative summer window and that means the future of many players is under threat, but one player’s future must be away from Old Trafford.
It is undeniable that although Manchester United may be prepared to activate Matheus Cunha’s release clause and acquire Enzo Kana-Biyik, their financial stability remains precarious.
This situation necessitates the sale of certain players, with the circumstances being so dire that even Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho were rumored to be on the market in January. Nevertheless, it is another young player who may find himself at risk of being sold.
He made his debut under Erik ten Hag and gained the trust of Ruben Amorim, yet he now faces a pivotal moment where his market value exceeds his contribution to Manchester United.
‘Freakish’ Man Utd youngster’s time running out
Youth development is a highly unpredictable exercise and someone who looked to have the world at their feet a few months ago could suddenly find themselves struggling. Whether it’s a run of bad form coinciding with another youngster’s good form, injury concerns or a change in management, there are many factors to consider. This case can be summed up perfectly by a Manchester United youngster who once received plaudits and was described as ‘extraordinary’ for his industriousness.
Toby Collyer made his Manchester United debut under Erik ten Hag and was tipped to be the next big thing after Kobbie Mainoo’s breakout run. Ten Hag was sacked but it was a testament to Collyer’s hard work that he also earned the trust of Ruben Amorim, even starting ahead of Casemiro at one point.
He was widely seen as the player who could somehow be the ‘next McTominay’ – never a flashy player, but always reliable in getting the job done and carrying out the manager’s instructions. However, recent developments mean that it no longer possesses its best quality.
Toby Collyer’s injury record means he should be sold
With Manchester United’s Premier League campaign now in shambles, now is the perfect time for youngsters to establish themselves for their future at Old Trafford. The likes of Harry Amass and Tyler Fredricson have already made their presence felt, and the same was expected of Toby Collyer, who occupied a higher position in the first-team pecking order than those two.
However, his injury history is becoming increasingly concerning and the issue that forced him to step back with the arrival of Amorim is now preventing him from becoming a regular fixture in the first team. He has already missed around 15 games this season with injuries of varying severity that have kept him out for around two months.
For a player who relies heavily on his off-the-ball work and fighting spirit, repeated soft tissue and muscle injuries are a warning sign at this stage of his career. Manchester United would be wise to sell him in the summer before his injury worries become chronic and his value diminishes.
After all, less than five months ago he was chosen ahead of Casemiro and he has shown that he deserves that choice. His value is at its highest right now and it looks set to go down. Manchester United need to cash in.
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