“After 6 years” – Manchester United midfielder confirms his exit
REUTERS/Phil Noble
Manchester United have opened the exit door at Old Trafford, as they look to further reshape the squad at Erik ten Hag’s disposal.
The John Murtough-led recruitment team, which itself might transform completely this summer due to a potential ownership change, is open to selling several first-team players. Harry Maguire, Scott McTominay, and Anthony Martial all face uncertain futures.
No decision has been made concerning transfers of loan arrivals Marcel Sabitzer and Wout Weghorst. As things stand, the duo will return to Bayern Munich and Burnley respectively at the end of the season.
Further, United have not opened any talks over new contracts with several players who will become free agents in less than two months. Phil Jones, Charlie Wellens, Axel Tunazebe, and Ethan Galbraith will all be released. And Galbraith has already confirmed his departure.
Manchester United midfielder to leave after six years
The midfielder, who moved to the Manchester United academy from Linfield in 2017, wrote on Instagram: “After six years, my time has come to an end with this magnificent club, Manchester United. I want to thank the club, coaching staff and players for helping me become a better player, a better person and for making me feel at home.”
Galbraith, 22, managed one senior appearance for United. In 2019, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer introduced him off the bench in the Europa League.
He is currently on loan at Salford City, who are fighting to get promoted to Football League One. Before Salford, Galbraith spent a season-long loan at Doncaster Rovers in 2021/22. After another promising experience in senior football, the talented midfielder should attract plenty of interest.
Meanwhile, at Carrington, the players who are likely to remain part of Ten Hag’s plans have seen their contracts extended. Luke Shaw and Alejandro Garnacho have signed long-term deals. United also exercised the option to extend the contracts of Fred, Marcus Rashford, and Diogo Dalot before they entered the final 12 months of their deals.