LAST month Facundo Pellistri had played 182 more minutes at the World Cup for Uruguay than he had for Manchester United.
However, last night the 21-year-old finally kicked off his United career by coming off the bench in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals.
Erik ten Hag only granted Pellistri six minutes plus injury time off the bench against Charlton as he replaced Anthony Elanga late on.
In his short time on the pitch he showed off his dribbling ability before creating Marcus Rashford’s first goal of the night as he became the first United player to score in eight consecutive home games since Wayne Rooney in 2010.
And his cameo was enough to convince the Old Trafford faithful he deserves more minutes.
Taking to Twitter, one user said: “Pellistri deserves to play more man. He looks so sharp.”
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A second user wrote: “Pellistri also giving Ten Hag something to think about after that cameo, hopefully he gets more game time, very impressive showing from the Uruguayan.”
A third said: “Need to see more of Pellestri. Did so well off the bench and got an assist on his debut. Definitely an option moving forward.”
A fourth user pleaded: “I want to see more of Pellestri!”
With Pellistri convincing fans he warrants more game time, many called for him to be elevated above Elanga – who played through the middle last night – in the squad pecking order.
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One user’s analysis read: “Facundo Pellistri has to stay & be given a chance at United. He’s a much better option than Elanga. Brings something different from the right-wing.”
Another user added: “Get Pellestri more game time! Offers more in 5 minutes than Elanga has in 5 months.”
After finally making his debut following his arrival in October 2020, Pellistri took to Twitter to celebrate.
He said: “The day has come! 🤯. Happy to make my official debut! ♥️”
The winger clearly left an impression on Ten Hag as well, with the Dutchman saying: “I see a future in Facundo Pellistri, it’s very clear that he’s progressing.
“I was also happy with him in the World Cup. Well done, keep going.”
He added: “He’s come on and had an effect so that’s the next step. I say well done, better, and keep going.”
According to Jonas Hen Shrag, Pellistri has already “received formal January loan offers” from both Valencia and Flamengo, but considering his impressive debut he may have earned a spot in the team going forward.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
