United’s Ruthless Reset: Rashford, Sancho and Antony Among Summer Exits
In what is swiftly becoming the most radical rebuild at Old Trafford since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, Manchester United have signalled their intent with a brutal summer clear-out.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News, three of the club’s most high-profile attacking names — Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony — are all set to leave as the club seeks both clarity and compliance.
This is not a mere reshuffle. It is a declaration. The names being ushered out were not long ago seen as foundational to the club’s vision. Rashford — once United’s brightest academy hope — is now considered expendable. Sancho — a marquee signing in 2021 — is floundering at Chelsea. Antony — brought in at great expense under Erik ten Hag — is reportedly thriving at Real Betis, but not in Manchester red.
Numbers Game
As ever, football’s cold accounting has its role. United need to offload with precision to stay on the right side of the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules. “United require a £32.52m fee to avoid a loss on Antony… Sancho would need to generate at least £14.58m,” the report explains. The figures are stark. Rashford, meanwhile, offers pure profit as a homegrown player.
In this context, departures are not simply tactical; they are financial imperatives. Players become entries on balance sheets. Rashford’s injury and lack of interest in London clubs may complicate his exit — “Sources close to Rashford say he has no interest in joining a London club.” A move abroad is most likely.
Priorities Redefined
United’s hierarchy, now operating under the watchful eye of Ineos and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, have clearly redrawn the lines of loyalty. None of the three are expected to return to the fold next season, with MEN stating: “Manchester United have prioritised the sales of Marcus Rashford, Antony and Jadon Sancho as part of their squad overhaul.”
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