Why Former Manchester United Players Are Thriving After Leaving the Club: A Look at Their Performances

In recent seasons, several high-profile Manchester United players have left the club, and many have gone on to enjoy significant success at their new teams. From Mason Greenwood to Scott McTominay, and Anthony Martial to Jadon Sancho, the performances of these former Red Devils have sparked discussions about the reasons behind their improved form post-Manchester United.

Players Who’ve Found Success Elsewhere

1. Mason Greenwood: A Star at Marseille

Since joining Marseille, Mason Greenwood has been in superb form, making an immediate impact in Ligue 1. So far this season, he has played 24 matches, scoring 15 goals and contributing 4 assists. Greenwood’s goalscoring form has helped him become a key player in Marseille's attack, with his performances placing him among the top scorers in the league.

2. Scott McTominay: A Key Player for Napoli

Scott McTominay has been instrumental at Napoli since his move to Italy. In 24 appearances this season, he has scored 7 goals and assisted 4 times, becoming a vital part of the team's midfield. His performances have helped propel Napoli to the top of the Serie A standings, putting them in strong contention for the league title.

3. Jadon Sancho: A Mixed Performance at Chelsea

Jadon Sancho’s time at Chelsea has been a mixed bag. After joining on loan before the start of the 2024/25 season, Sancho made a promising start with 2 goals and 5 assists in his first 10 matches. However, his form dipped in the latter part of the season, with no goals and only 1 assist in his last 12 appearances. Despite this slump, Sancho has still contributed 2 goals and 6 assists in 23 matches for Chelsea, showing potential for improvement.

4. Marcus Rashford: New Opportunities at Aston Villa

Marcus Rashford’s recent loan move to Aston Villa has yet to produce significant results, and his performance is still under evaluation. However, considering the experiences of his former teammates, such as Sancho, it’s possible that Rashford's fresh start at Villa could help him rediscover his form and unlock new potential in a different system.

5. Antony: A Resurgence at Real Betis

Antony, who struggled to find consistency at Manchester United, has enjoyed a strong revival at Real Betis. After moving on loan midway through the season, he has played 4 matches, scoring 3 goals and assisting 1. His performances in La Liga have seen him regain his confidence and showcase his explosive attacking qualities.

6. Anthony Martial: A Key Figure at AEK Athens

Anthony Martial's move to AEK Athens has turned out to be a success. In 19 matches, Martial has scored 9 goals and registered 2 assists, becoming one of the team's standout performers. His contributions have kept AEK Athens in the title race, and the more relaxed competition in Greek Super League seems to suit his style of play.

Why Are These Players Performing Better After Leaving Manchester United?

Several key factors explain why these former United players are excelling in their new environments:

1. Tactical Fit

Manchester United has struggled with tactical inconsistency in recent years, especially under Erik ten Hag. While Ten Hag has experimented with various formations, the team has often lacked a coherent attacking plan. For example, Antony often found himself isolated in wide areas at United, contributing to his struggles. However, at Real Betis, the possession-heavy style of play in La Liga has suited Antony’s ability to exploit one-on-one situations, allowing him to thrive. Similarly, McTominay has flourished at Napoli, where the team’s tactical approach complements his strengths as a box-to-box midfielder.

2. Psychological Relief

The pressure at a club as high-profile as Manchester United is immense. Every performance is scrutinized, and players face constant media and fan attention. For someone like Antony, the negative attention surrounding off-field controversies and on-field struggles at United created a heavy psychological burden. After moving to Real Betis, Antony has found a more supportive environment, allowing him to focus on his game without the constant media pressure.

3. Increased Playing Time and Opportunities

At Manchester United, competition for spots in the starting lineup is fierce, and players like Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford often faced challenges in maintaining consistent minutes. Moving to clubs like Chelsea and Aston Villa has provided them with more opportunities to play regularly, which helps them find form and regain confidence. Rashford, in particular, may benefit from this change in environment, where he is likely to get more chances to start and influence games.

4. Team Dynamics and Management Style

Another factor is the team culture and management styles at these new clubs. At Manchester United, there have been questions about the club's internal atmosphere, with reports suggesting issues within the dressing room. Frequent managerial changes and leadership instability have made it difficult for players to settle and perform at their best. In contrast, their new clubs often offer a more stable environment, where players are given more freedom to express themselves. For example, C Ronaldo famously criticized United’s leadership, labeling the club as broken and calling for a complete overhaul of the management structure.

C Ronaldo’s Critique of Manchester United

The legendary Cristiano Ronaldo offered his own insights into the situation at Manchester United, famously comparing the club to a "fish tank". Ronaldo explained that players at the club often struggle, like fish in a confined tank, unable to perform to their potential. He argued that the problems at United stem from deeper issues, such as management and infrastructure, and that the club needed a complete overhaul to return to its former glory.

Next

With Manchester United's recent appointment of Ruben Amorim as the new head coach, there's a sense of renewed hope among fans. Amorim, known for his tactical acumen and ability to develop young talent, has the potential to revitalize the team. His fresh perspective and modern approach to football offer a promising outlook for the club’s future. Many are excited to see how he will address the club's structural issues and bring in a new era of stability and success. There’s optimism that under Amorim’s leadership, Manchester United can rebuild and challenge for top honors once again.