Recent reports from Manchester United’s official website have confirmed that Facundo Pellistri has re-joined La Liga side Deportivo Alaves on a season-long loan ahead of the 2021/22 season.
‘Manchester United winger Facundo Pellistri has rejoined Spanish side Deportivo Alaves on a season-long loan.’ – The report stated.
The Uruguayan international enjoyed a brilliant pre-season with the Red Devils as he bagged the winner against Derby County and set up the opening goal for Jesse Lingard against Queens Park Rangers.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was left impressed by the 19-year-old’s qualities.
“I thought he was bright, of course, he takes his goal really well.” – The Norwegian tactician said.
“I think he shows what he is, he’s a difficult player to play against. One against one he can go past people and I’m very pleased with him.”
Pellistri’s 2020/21 Season At Mendizorrotza Stadium
Pellistri joined Manchester United from Uruguayan side Penarol for a fee of around £9 million on deadline day last October and was loaned to Alaves for the second half of the 2020/21 season.
The 19-year-old forward managed to put some decent numbers on the board the last term as he helped the club secure their top-flight status in La Liga with a 16th-place finish. He averaged 0.4 shots, 0.2 key passes, and 1.3 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Spanish first division (calculated over 540 minutes).
Good Decision By Solskjaer?
With attributes like pace, agility, and dribbling, the young Uruguayan loves making direct runs at the opposition defenders down the right flank. He can effortlessly cut inside to have a shot on goal or create more space for the supporting full-backs in the wide areas of the pitch.
“Pellistri is a young lad and I really love the way he plays the game. He’s the typical South American footballer who has that mischievous nature to his game, and the way he lives his football is a bit like, as we say in Uruguay, being on el campito, as we call it, a makeshift pitch where you have a kickabout for fun with your mates or whoever.” – Edinson Cavani told Manchester United’s official website.
However, coming to weaknesses, the youngster has a lot to work upon – the first being his finishing skills. Pellistri netted just two goals and made four assists in 37 appearances for Penarol, showcasing his lack of concentration in the final third.
Pellistri is nowhere near a finished product yet, so a couple of loan spells will certainly help him understand his weaknesses and improve upon them. The Spanish La Liga is often known for its high-quality tactical gameplay, and a season-long loan with Alaves will help him gain further experience of senior football at the highest level.
(Stats from WhoScored)
