5 players Manchester United should scarcely use in the Premier League (2021-22)

Manchester United v Newcastle United - Premier League
Manchester United v Newcastle United - Premier League

#3 Nemanja Matic

Manchester United v Newcastle United - Premier League
Manchester United v Newcastle United - Premier League

The Manchester United midfielder was one of the best Premier League players in his position at his peak but with age catching up, Nemanja Matic has endured a decline. Although pace was never his strongest suit, the 33-year-old seems to be struggling with the demands of the Premier League now.

However, the Serbian definitely has enough in his tank to feature for Manchester United during cup games or weaker opposition in the Premier League. Matic could also be a great rotational player in case injuries trouble the club.

The double-pivot at United is currently occupied by the formidable duo of Fred and Scott McTominay. There are also rumors of Manchester United being involved in the market for a new midfielder. As such, Matic could feature a lot less this term.


#2 Juan Mata

Derby County v Manchester United - Pre-Season Friendly
Derby County v Manchester United - Pre-Season Friendly

Juan Mata fits the same category of players as his teammates above, with the Spaniard not close to what used to be his best version as a player. Last season, the midfielder saw his minutes reduced considerably, featuring only in cup games and a few games in the Premier League.

The 33-year-old has been forced to play on the right wing for Manchester United, a role not suitable anymore owing to his lack of pace.

Considering the arrival of Jadon Sancho and the development of youngsters Amad Diallo and Anthony Elanga, Mata is not expected to enjoy regular involvement in the Premier League.

However, Mata will be a great influence to have in the dressing room to nurture these young talents in the right direction.

After signing a one-year contract extension at Manchester United, there are rumors that Mata will move to an ambassadorial role at the Premier League club when the deal runs out.


#1 David De Gea

Manchester United v Leeds United - Premier League
Manchester United v Leeds United - Premier League

David De Gea's days as Manchester United's numero uno could be numbered. Having just completed 10 years at the Premier League club, the Spaniard has undoubtedly been a loyal servant at Old Trafford.

He's been incredible between the sticks at Manchester United, saving points for the team with his excellent positioning and reflexes.

De Gea was the best player at the club for an extended period of time. But recent performances have been quite the opposite, with his errors leading to goals and losing points.

His distribution isn't the strongest and the Spaniard is not the most commanding in his box either. Add to this the emergence of Dean Henderson, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has a young and hungry goalkeeper ready as a replacement.

The former Atletico Madrid custodian is currently the highest earner at Manchester United, making it difficult to offload him. The arrival of veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton further signifies that De Gea's spot could be in jeopardy if he does not endure a serious upturn in fortunes.

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Edited by Nived Zenith
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