Sport
Man Utd’s seven players facing uncertain futures as Ruben Amorim set huge task
Former captain Harry Maguire is one of seven stars whose Manchester United career could end under Ruben Amorim.
The Portuguese coach has been confirmed as the Red Devils' new boss following the sacking of Erik ten Hag. Amorim will take charge of his first game this weekend against newly promoted Ipswich.
And while he is keen to focus on getting United back on track after a dismal start to the season, there could be some tough conversations with some of his players in the future. Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans are all out of contract next summer and could potentially leave.
The Danish midfielder is expected to leave the club at the end of his contract, while Lindelof has been linked with a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Fenerbahce. Evans, 36, could also move on.
Other out-of-contract stars include former captain Harry Maguire. He was linked with West Ham last summer and could part ways after dropping down the pecking order, even though the Red Devils had an option to extend his contract for another year.
United also have a similar agreement with Amad Diallo. The Ivorian winger has managed to establish himself at Old Trafford this season and talks over a new contract are expected.
Although Casemiro and Tyrell Malacia still have 18 months left on their respective deals, they continue to face criticism over their futures. The Brazilian has been linked with a departure for some time and the Red Devils could choose to invest money in it so that they do not lose him for nothing.
Malacia's contract also expires in 2026. The Dutchman has only just returned to action after a lengthy injury layoff, so any talks may be put on hold until he is fully fit.
While decisions need to be made, one star who could leave is Brazilian player Antony. It has been suggested that the Red Devils are willing to cut their losses on the £81million winger.
Amorim will be given time to make his own decisions about his players and how they fit into his plans, with future budgets expected to be tight. He has spoken out in recent days – and what he plans to do when his players return from international duty – but has stopped short of any transfer talk. He said: “We know we need time, but we have to gain time.
“Gaining time means winning matches. But the most important thing for me is identity. So from day one we start with our identity. Of course we will prepare the games, but we will focus a lot on our game model.
“How to play, how to press, these little things, little details. You can't go 100% into every detail because it will be confusing for the players. So if I have to say one thing: my main goal, my first goal, is identity.”