Top 3 Players Manchester United Must Sell In the Summer

Manchester United is heading into what could be one of the most decisive summers in their recent history. The club is desperate for a fresh start, and with Ruben Amorim now steering the ship, big decisions must be made, especially regarding departures.

To rebuild properly, United will need to offload players who have underperformed or simply no longer fit the new system. Here are the top three players the club should strongly consider selling this summer

1. Antony

There was genuine excitement when Manchester United splashed £86 million on Antony in 2022. He came in with flair, a highlight reel from his Ajax days, and the backing of then-Manager Erik ten Hag. Fast forward to 2025, and it’s fair to say the Brazilian has not lived up to expectations.

Across 96 appearances, Antony has only managed 12 goals and 5 assists, which is not good enough for someone wearing the red shirt at Old Trafford. His decision-making in the final third often lets him down, and despite brief spells of promise, he has never looked settled in the Premier League.

However, his loan spell at Real Betis this season has been a story of rejuvenation. Six goals and four assists in 19 games, helping the club to a potential Conference League final. That has attracted interest from Atletico Madrid. United is reportedly open to letting him go for somewhere between €40–50 million, a significant loss, but perhaps a necessary one as it’s the best opportunity for the Red Devils to get the best out of this deal. Sometimes, a player just doesn’t fit. This might be one of those cases, or maybe it’s just the Old Trafford curse.

2. Marcus Rashford

Marcus Rashford is one of those players who splits opinion among United fans. On his day, he’s devastating, fast, direct, and capable of the spectacular. But the problem is that those days have been far too rare over the past few seasons.

After falling out of favor with Ruben Amorim earlier this season, he joined Aston Villa on loan in January and has done reasonably well. Villa has the option to make the move permanent for around £40 million. Given how disjointed Rashford’s United career has become, and there’s no chance of a dramatic comeback, that might be worth considering.

Letting go of a local lad is never easy, especially one who’s been at the club since he was a kid. But this might be the right time for both parties. Rashford needs a fresh environment, and United needs a new start and consistency.

3. André Onana

Replacing David de Gea would always be tough, but there was optimism when André Onana arrived from Inter Milan in 2023. He was fresh off a Champions League final. Known for his confidence on the ball and his ability to sweep behind a high line, Ten Hag desperately wanted him.

But the Premier League is different, and Onana’s time in England has been inconsistent. From early Champions League howlers to nervous moments in big matches, his lack of composure at key times has cost United points. However, Onana had a great start to this season and was one of United’s best players for a couple of months, but then his error-prone self from last season was back.

There have been good performances, too. His shot-stopping can be top-class when he’s locked in, but those moments have been few and far between to justify his starting role. Once considered his strength, his distribution has also come under scrutiny as he’s made unforced errors under pressure.

Manchester United has conceded over 50 goals in the league this season, among the highest in the top half of the table. While the defense hasn’t helped, the goalkeeper should provide a sense of security. Onana has not. If United want to compete at the top again, they need someone more reliable between the sticks.

Interest in Onana remains, especially from Serie A and Saudi clubs. If a decent offer arrives, the club would be wise to accept it and choose a safer, more stable option, like Diogo Costa of FC Porto. 

Players Who Divide Opinion

While some sales are necessary, others require patience and long-term thinking. Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Højlund fall into the latter category.

Alejandro Garnacho

The 20-year-old has been one of the few bright sparks for United this season, disappointing the team in more ways than one. With 12 goals and  6 assists in all competitions, his energy, confidence, and ability to rise in big moments have stood out. However, his poor decision-making and finishing ability have cost the Red Devils many points, and the 20-year-old has been at the center of criticism, especially from fans. Clubs like Tottenham and Napoli are reportedly circling with offers in the €60–70 million range.

The young Argentine and club both might need a fresh start for themselves. Still, Garnacho is homegrown, improving steadily, and already has a big-game temperament. Unless a truly irresistible offer comes in, United should build around him, not sell.

Rasmus Højlund

After showing promise in his debut campaign, Rasmus Højlund has struggled to find consistency this season. The young Dane has only managed four goals in 29 Premier League appearances, which is well below what is expected of a £72 million striker. While he’s looked sharper in Europe, scoring five goals in 8 Europa League matches, his domestic form has raised eyebrows.

There’s no doubt Højlund has raw talent, but he’s still finding his feet in a team that lacks stability and service. United might be tempted if a big offer arrives, but given his age and potential, there is still a strong argument to keep faith in him a little longer.

Final Thoughts

In short, the time has come for Manchester United to be ruthless in their decision-making. Players like Antony, Rashford, and Onana have had their chances. If the club wants to move forward, it’s time to let go, and double down on the younger core that still has so much potential to grow.