As the 2025-26 season moves into its second weekend, questions remain over the futures of Manchester United’s sidelined trio—Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, and Antony. The club has made it clear these players are surplus to requirements and are actively seeking new clubs, with uncertainty looming particularly around Antony Manchester United future question.
Outlook on the Trio’s Potential Beyond Manchester United
According to ESPN analyst Steve Nicol, Garnacho stands out as the only player among the three with a promising future. Nicol expressed skepticism about both Sancho and Antony’s ability to thrive at the highest levels, highlighting Garnacho’s youth and talent as key factors in his potential resurgence. He stated,
“Got to be Garnacho, isn’t it? Sancho, for me, at the top level he’s done! I don’t think Antony was ever going to be good enough to get to the top level. But Garnacho is still young. He has got talent, so out of them three, I’d say Garnacho has got a chance [of having a bright future after leaving Manchester United].” —Steve Nicol, ESPN Pundit
Despite this evaluation, Manchester United face considerable difficulty in transferring all three players. Sancho has rejected an offer from AS Roma, while Antony has yet to attract significant interest from other clubs. Garnacho’s situation appears more promising, with Chelsea reportedly prepared to acquire the Argentine once they complete outgoing transfers before the window closes.
Garnacho’s strained relationship and potential move to Chelsea
Alejandro Garnacho experienced tensions with Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim following their UEFA Europa League final loss in May, which led to his exclusion from the pre-season camp. The forward has reportedly reached a personal terms agreement with Chelsea and is targeting a transfer to Stamford Bridge this summer, signaling a clear path forward compared to his counterparts at Old Trafford.
Manchester United nearing a new goalkeeper signing
While the club sorts out its outcast players, it is close to finalizing a deal for a new goalkeeper, Belgium U-21 international Senne Lammens. The 23-year-old is expected to strengthen Manchester United’s depth between the posts, bringing an end to their goalkeeper search for the summer transfer window.
Reports indicate that Manchester United and Lammens’ current club, Royal Antwerp, have reached an agreement in the region of €20 million. The player is reportedly eager to join Old Trafford, and contractual terms are anticipated to be settled without issue.
During the league opener, Altay Bayindir started in goal due to Andre Onana’s injury absence but with Onana now fit, the arrival of Lammens puts pressure on the club to offload one of their keepers before the transfer deadline. Onana is expected to feature in the upcoming fixture against Fulham at Craven Cottage on August 24th.
Implications for Manchester United’s squad and transfer strategy
The uncertain futures of Garnacho, Sancho, and Antony underline Manchester United’s ongoing challenge to reshape their squad ahead of the season. Garnacho’s potential move to Chelsea could mark a bright spot for the club’s emerging talent, while the lack of interest in Sancho and Antony raises questions about their next steps professionally. Additionally, securing Lammens would address Manchester United’s goalkeeping needs, yet also complicate squad balance as outgoing players will be required.