Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim explained the decision to let go of forward Marcus Rashford and the £85.5 million signing Antony, stating it was for the overall benefit of the club.
Rashford, an academy product currently sidelined for the season due to a hamstring injury, revitalized his career during his loan spell at Aston Villa.
He contributed four goals and five assists there.
Meanwhile, Antony quickly became a fan favourite at Spanish side Real Betis.
Speaking before United`s match against Bournemouth, as the team faces its lowest-ever Premier League points tally, Amorim indicated that the departure of the reportedly unhappy pair was necessary.
This decision wasn`t solely motivated by the club`s financial constraints and the potential saving of a significant portion of their combined £500,000 weekly wages.
In comments suggesting his desire to sell them to finance a summer squad overhaul, Amorim stated: “Our team is lacking in many areas.”
“In January, we lost players like Rashford and Antony,” he added.
“We didn`t bring in replacements, which was a risk. However, we are working towards a more significant long-term objective.”
“I believe there are more crucial factors at play here than simply scoring an extra 10 goals this season.”
“While this might negatively impact the squad in the short term, it will ultimately benefit the club in the future. I believe we are heading in that direction.”
Amorim emphasized that technical director Jason Wilcox fully supported the loan agreements.
He further explained: “It was my initiative, aimed at helping the team, and sometimes assisting the players requires taking a different approach.”
Both Rashford and Antony appear to have futures away from Old Trafford, as United is reportedly pursuing plans to sign Wolves forward Matheus Cunha for £62.5 million.
Other potential targets include Liam Delap from Ipswich, valued at £30 million, and Napoli`s Victor Osimhen.
