Man Utd Forward Expresses Frustration, Hints at Summer Departure Following Talks with Ten Hag and Barcelona Links

A ‘frustrated’ Manchester United forward has revealed that he has already had ‘private’ talks with Erik ten Hag about his lack of playing time and will have further talks with the club this summer about his future.

In the early stages of the season, Anthony Elanga was a regular off the bench. His playing time, however, has been limited to just 49 minutes since the January transfer window closed, and the winger is clearly concerned.

The 20-year-old was reported to have had a number of suitors chasing his services during the winter window, with Everton and Barcelona both asking the question. Ten Hag, on the other hand, did not want to deplete his squad while the club was still fighting on four fronts.

However, due to the form of Marcus Rashford, Antony, a returning Jadon Sancho, and the rise of Alejandro Garnacho, Elanga has only made four substitute appearances since the end of January.

How is that tackle by Rodri against
Ødegaard not a penalty? Spain need to be investigated for paying Ref like Barcelona. Arsenal still need that guy fit abeg. pic.twitter.com/Pf2ykgvT6x
— Tierney & Saka (@babyface2000ad) March 25, 2023

Elanga saw no action as Sweden was thrashed 3-0 at home by Belgium on Friday evening. And he admits that at this point in his career, all he wants is regular football.

When asked about his lack of playing time at Manchester United, Elanga told Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet, “It is frustrating.” You must play. But whether or not you play is up to the coach, not me.

“I have spoken to Erik and it is private between the two of us.

“I know what he wants me to do and I just keep training hard. When the opportunity comes, I just have to be ready to take it.

“We have a lot of conversations, not only about [the lack of game time] but also what is happening around. That’s the good thing about the club, we talk a lot and they help me a lot.”

Elanga quizzed on Barcelona links

As for how close he actually came to moving on in January, Elanga added: “There was talk about it. But right now I’m focusing on United. We still have a big season ahead of us and need to finish as well as possible.”

Elanga was even asked if moving to Barcelona was a possibility, to which he replied: “That was in January, I can’t focus on that now.

“The best thing I can do is focus on the rest of the season [with United] and then I will get to talk to the club.

“I love the club, but it’s important for me to play. I’m still young. We have spoken to the club and they know what is required and I know what is required.”

United are back in action on Sunday April 2 when they head to top-four rivals Newcastle.