Jose Mourinho has begun making major roster decisions ahead of his first campaign as manager of the Red Devils. Late last week reports highlighted his choice to purge nine players from the current squad, with several notable names jumping off the page.
From world-class veterans to several promising youth products, his choices have touched a wide range of individuals within the club. While the actions taken are certainly not completely unexpected (The Special One tends to shake things up a bit when joining a new team), the timing and players involved have certainly raised some eyebrows.
We highlight those believed to be involved and some others who may be on Mourinho’s shortlist for a permanent vacation from Old Trafford.
3ANDREAS PEREIRA
Many had the 20-year-old Brazilian midfielder tabbed for stardom, especially after a wonderful free-kick goal in United’s 3-0 win over Ipswich Town in last year’s Capital One Cup. However, a lack of minutes has provided a major dent in Mourinho’s confidence in the player moving forward.
Having featured in both PSV’s and Manchester United’s academies, expectations were high for the youngster. However, a combined four Premier League appearances over the past two seasons for Louis Van Gaal have seen him drop off both Mourinho’s and United’s radar.
CAMERON BORTHWICK-JACKSON
19-year-old Cameron Borthwick-Jackson has been one of, if not the most, promising defender on Manchester United’s youth teams in recent years. Despite receiving the club’s U21 Player of the Year award this past May, Borthwick-Jackson finds himself on the outs in the Special One’s new regime.
Having only made his senior team debut last season, the possible move seems set to replace many young defenders and remove players who may have impressed Louis Van Gaal more than Jose Mourinho.