Aksel Kryhlmand
With United’s rebuild under Amorim in full swing, tough decisions are being made, on and off the pitch.
Manchester United have made a significant retail decision that could hint at the future of three high-profile wingers, Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Antony, following a season marked by loans, controversy, and managerial upheaval.
While Rashford’s No.10 shirt remains available for purchase on United’s official online store, shirts for Sancho and Antony are not listed, raising questions about the latter duo’s standing at the club ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Retail Clues Spark Speculation
When customising United’s newly released home kit, fans are offered the option to select “Rashford 10”, a notable inclusion amid speculation surrounding his long-term future. Meanwhile:
- Jadon Sancho’s No.25 has been reassigned to new signing Manuel Ugarte
- Antony’s No.21 remains vacant, yet unavailable for customisation
These omissions could signal that Sancho and Antony are not part of manager Rúben Amorim’s plans going forward.
Loan Departures and Shifting Status
All three players spent the second half of last season away from Old Trafford:
- Sancho had a tumultuous spell at Chelsea
- Antony impressed at Real Betis, rebuilding confidence and form
- Rashford found a new rhythm at Aston Villa, contributing four goals and six assists in 17 appearances
Rashford’s performances under Unai Emery even earned him a recall to England duty, where he joined Thomas Tuchel’s first Three Lions squad in March.
Amorim’s Damning Assessment
Despite Rashford starting Amorim’s first two Premier League matches and scoring in both, he was frozen out of the squad by mid-December. His last appearance came in a Europa League match against Viktoria Plzen on December 12. The breakdown was later explained by the manager himself.
I couldn’t get Marcus to see the way you’re supposed to play football and to train the way I see it, Amorim said upon Rashford’s move to Villa.
Rashford has three years remaining on his contract, while Antony is tied until 2027 and Sancho’s deal expires next summer.
Mid-June Decision Looms
The BBC previously reported that Rashford and United were set to hold decisive talks in mid-June. While Rashford reportedly had doubts about a return, the club’s willingness to sell shirts bearing his name could suggest a softening stance or a potential reintegration under certain conditions.
The Bigger Picture
With United’s rebuild under Amorim in full swing, tough decisions are being made, on and off the pitch. While retail listings don’t confirm squad selections, they often reflect internal forecasts. The absence of Sancho and Antony could indicate impending exits, while Rashford’s continued visibility may offer a glimmer of hope for a player long considered a club icon.