Manchester United are enjoying one of their best seasons in modern history and Erik ten Hag has largely opted to used the same group of players for the majority of the campaign, rarely rotating the side.
One of the victims of that strategy has been Anthony Elanga, who has started just six games in the Premier League this season following his breakthrough term under Ralf Rangnick.
Elanga, who can play on either flank, is currently behind Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Antony and Alejandro Garnacho in the pecking order.
Elanga is currently with the Swedish national team taking part in qualifiers for next year’s European Championship and speaking recently, he has underlined the importance of minutes on the pitch, admitting it’s ‘frustrating’ not to be playing.
“It’s frustrating,” Elanga is quoted as saying by journalist Fabrizio Romano.
“It’s important for me to play. I’m focused on United now — then I’ll talk to the club. I like the club, but it’s important for me to play.
“I spoke to Ten Hag — I know what he wants me to do and I can only continue to train hard.”
SN’s verdict…
At this point, it is highly unlikely that Elanga will be able to reclaim a role at United but injuries in the wide areas could offer him a route back.
Garnacho is currently injured and although no timeline has been set for his return, there is no confirming that he will be available after the international break.
Elanga will most likely need to assess his options this summer and perhaps United will explore a Premier League loan move, having rejected a proposal from Everton last year.
