Solskjaer All But Confirms Man United Defender’s Summer Departure

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has strongly hinted at the summer departure of Antonio Valencia. 

Manchester United look set to part ways with the Ecuadorian international, as his current deal with the club will expire at the end of the ongoing campaign.

The Red Devils did possess the option to activate a one-year extension clause in his contract, but decided against it. And with the clause no longer valid post Friday’s 5pm GMT deadline, the full-back is very likely to depart on a free transfer come summer.

The 33-year-old fell down the pecking order at the start of the season itself, after his relationship with former boss Jose Mourinho broke down, supposedly due to the player’s social media activity.

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Valencia has remained on the sidelines under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as well, having made merely five Premier League appearances all season.

Now, ahead of Manchester United‘s league clash against Southampton, the interim manager has all but confirmed that the club is unlikely to retain the services of its current captain.

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“He’s still not 100% fit, still working to get back fit and he’s had a fantastic career here at Manchester United and England,” Solskjaer stated during his press conference on Friday (via Goal).

“He is one of the Premier League winners left in the dressing room, but I’m not sure if Manchester United and Antonio will agree on the next year.

“So it depends if he gets back on the pitch in the next few months but he’s the captain, great servant to the club so hopefully I can get him on the pitch and show what he can do.”