Mikael Silvestre thinks Facundo Pellistri and Anthony Elanga of Manchester United would benefit from a loan move away this summer, citing Amad Diallo's time on loan at Sunderland as an example.
Elanga has started seven games for United this season, while Pellistri has made zero appearances and has only come off the bench once. Erik ten Hag reportedly turned down a loan move for the Swedish winger in January because he didn't want to weaken his team's depth while they were still in the thick of things in as many competitions as possible.
Amad, on the other hand, joined Sunderland on loan at the end of last summer, viewing a drop to the second division as a chance to get more playing time at the professional level. The youngster struggled at first but has since become a key contributor to Tony Mowbray's squad, scoring eight goals and setting up two more.
Worse, he has played 2,149 minutes in 31 appearances, which is nearly three times as much as the 769 minutes played by Elanga and Pellistri combined. Silvestre is so convinced that Amad has set the best possible example that he has been encouraging the young couple to consider making a temporary move away.
"When you go on loan, you have to make it count," he said to bettingexpert.com. Since I anticipate several potential managers, Pellistri and Elanga will have to carefully consider their options before settling on one. Game time is currently restricted, so borrowing the game is a viable option.
Therefore, they must maximize their playing time while on loan to improve and earn a starting position for the upcoming season. They need a loan with as much success as Amad Diallo's.
United are taking a 4-1 lead into the second leg of their Europa League round of 16 matches against Real Betis on Thursday, and Pellistri could make his first start for the club in that competition. On Saturday, United host Fulham in the FA Cup quarterfinals, so there is also a chance for playing time.
