Facundo Pellistri was given a deserving start in Manchester United’s 4-3 loss to Bayern Munich on Wednesday night.
After Wednesday night’s 4-3 loss to Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena in the UEFA Champions League, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes argued that winger Facundo Pellistri deserved to start.
The Uruguayan received only his second start in United colours as they suffered their third consecutive defeat in all competitions. His sole prior appearance for the club came in the Europa League against Real Betis in March, when United led 4-1 after the first leg in Manchester a week earlier.
There had been a growing number of calls since the recent international break for manager Erik ten Hag to award Pellistri his first start of the season after Jadon Sancho and Antony were ruled out for off-field issues. The youngster started on the right-wing in Munich, joining forces with Rasmus Hojlund and Marcus Rashford in attack.
The former Alaves loanee came within a few yards of putting United ahead inside the first five minutes, only for Bayern left-back Alphonso Davies to grab the ball from his toes as he appeared about to open the scoring. Though he had glimpses of his ability, he did not have the same influence on the game as he does when entrusted with making an impact from the bench.
Despite this, Fernandes believes the teenager “did well” in his first significant start for the club, saying that he deserved the chance to impress Ten Hag.
“Pellistri is one of the players who deserves his opportunity,” Fernandes remarked. “For everything he has done for the team, he deserves a lot of credit.”
“He is someone who is always available, who works hard in training, and who deserves his chance.” He did well today, completing the task assigned to him by the management, and we are all pleased for him since he truly deserves to be given the opportunity.”