Victor Lindelof’s future at Manchester United is now uncertain, with his playing time significantly diminishing under manager Erik ten Hag.
The Swedish center-back has fallen down the defensive hierarchy at Old Trafford, sitting behind Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.
This has led to growing speculation about a potential departure, as Lindelof is no longer seen as a regular starter for United.
Despite having a year left on his current contract, the 29-year-old’s prospects of regular first-team football look increasingly bleak.
Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown recently commented on the situation, suggesting that if Lindelof’s role doesn’t improve soon, he may seriously consider leaving the club by the end of the season.
Brown emphasized that Lindelof could become increasingly frustrated with his lack of game time, and this frustration might push him to seek opportunities elsewhere where he could play more frequently.
To make matters more complicated for Lindelof, the potential arrival of Leny Yoro, a highly-rated young defender, could further limit his chances of securing a starting spot.
Although Yoro is currently sidelined with an injury, once he returns to full fitness, he could add even more competition to United’s defensive options.
With ten Hag continuing to build a competitive squad, it is becoming increasingly challenging for Lindelof to carve out a regular role.
Lindelof has been with Manchester United since 2017, when he joined from Portuguese club Benfica.
Over his six years at the club, he has made over 200 appearances and has been a reliable option for several different managers.
However, his role has steadily diminished since ten Hag’s arrival, as the Dutch manager appears to favor the pairing of Martinez and Varane.
Even when Varane has been injured, Lindelof has not always been the first-choice replacement, as ten Hag has occasionally opted for other defensive options, further signaling the Swede’s reduced standing in the squad.
If Lindelof decides to leave Manchester United, it would mark the end of a significant chapter in his career.
His time at the club has seen both highs and lows, but it appears that his role in the team is no longer secure.
The upcoming months will likely be critical in determining his future.
Should he continue to struggle for minutes on the pitch, a move away from Old Trafford might be in his best interest, allowing him to regain regular playing time and reignite his career elsewhere.
Ultimately, whether Lindelof stays or leaves could depend on both his performance in the limited opportunities he receives and the decisions ten Hag makes regarding defensive reinforcements.
With increased competition and fewer chances to play, Lindelof may soon face the difficult decision of whether to continue fighting for his place at Manchester United or seek a new challenge at another club where he can play a more prominent role.