Erik ten Hag has insisted that Facundo Pellistri has a future at Manchester United, despite the winger eyeing an exit from Old Trafford.
Pellistri joined the Red Devils in a £9million move from Uruguayan side Penarol in October 2020. But he has struggled to make an impact on the senior team since his arrival at Old Trafford, spending most of his time out on loan at Deportivo Alaves.
After two years with the LaLiga side, Pellistri returned to Manchester in the summer in the hopes of earning a spot in Ten Hag's plans. That has not panned out as expected though, with the winger only making his club debut on Tuesday night.
That was also a limited appearance, with a six-minute cameo in the Carabao Cup win over Charlton Athletic, but it was still an exciting display from the 21-year-old, who provided the assist for his side's second goal.
And following his late substitute appearance at Old Trafford, Ten Hag insisted that there was a place for him in his squad. The Red Devils boss admitted he was impressed by the Uruguayan in his recent performances.
"I see a future in him. He is doing really well and we have to see what is the best. He is progressing. Against Everton [in a behind-closed doors friendly], I was really happy with his performance," Ten Hag said.
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"I was happy with his performance at the World Cup so his progress is really good and now he is coming on and has an effect. So that's the next step that I say: 'well done Pelli, keep going'.
“I mentioned already Pellistri came on and it was a debut. It was not long but he was really lively, some good actions and also the assist on the second goal."
Ten Hag appears to have opened the door to a longer stay at United for Pellistri, who has reportedly been eyeing a departure amid his lack of game time. Back in November, AS claimed his days at United could be 'numbered'.
It was stated that the winger would be looking for a 'permanent' transfer away from United this month. While it was suggested a loan move could be in the offing, that is not something Pellistri was thought to be considering.
Ten Hag was pleased with United's performance against Charlton, though admitted to being frustrated that his side had not made the win more comfortable.
"I said before we have to reach the semi-finals and we did the job. We had to finish the game early on but, in the end, the objective was getting to the semi-final so compliments to the team," the Dutchman said.
"The only thing I'm not happy with is we had to finish the game early on, finish the scoring chances or take an extra pass. We had good opportunities, especially on the left side, also on the right side. We didn't allow them too much and, if there was something, Tom Heaton was there."
