Aaron Wan-Bissaka 'wants assurances over Manchester United playing time'

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | 31 August 2022

Aaron Wan-Bissaka 'wants assurances over Man United playing time'

Manchester United right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka reportedly demands talks with Erik ten Hag to discuss his role at the club amid talk of a possible late exit.

Manchester United right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka is reportedly prepared to leave the club if he is not given assurances over his game time.

The 24-year-old immediately cemented himself as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's first-choice right-back after securing a £49.5m move from boyhood club Crystal Palace in 2019.

Despite impressing defensively, Wan-Bissaka's contributions on the attacking front have been criticized, and he has since fallen down the pecking order under Erik ten Hag.

Diogo Dalot has started the 2022-23 season as first choice on the right-hand side of the backline, leaving Wan-Bissaka waiting for his first Premier League start of the season.

The Englishman came on as a substitute for the final four minutes in his side's 2-1 win over Liverpool but was left on the bench against Brighton & Hove Albion, Brentford and Southampton.

Manchester United's Aaron Wan-Bissaka in action with Everton's Dominic Calvert-Lewin on April 9, 2022 © Reuters

Speculation surrounding a move away for Wan-Bissaka has increased ahead of Thursday's transfer deadline, and a return to Crystal Palace was mooted earlier this month.

There has also been talk of a potential swap deal with Barcelona involving Sergino Dest, while West Ham United have been tipped to make a late move for the former Eagles youngster.

According to the Daily Star, Wan-Bissaka is now desperate to hold face-to-face talks with Ten Hag to discuss his role at the club while the Dutchman searches for right-back reinforcements.

The report adds that Wan-Bissaka will push to leave the 20-time English champions on loan within the coming hours if Ten Hag is unable to guarantee him regular playing time at Old Trafford.

Alternatively, Wan-Bissaka may wait until the January window before trying to secure a permanent exit, which would also give him ample time to try to force his way into Ten Hag's plans.

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag serving symbolism on August 7, 2022 © Reuters

The defender's contract at the Theatre of Dreams runs until the summer of 2024, although Man United do possess the option to extend his stay for an additional 12 months.

Wan-Bissaka has contributed two goals and 10 assists in 127 outings for Man United over the past three seasons, but he failed to score or set up his teammates in 26 outings last term.

Ten Hag has already beefed up his defence with the signings of Tyrell Malacia and Lisandro Martinez, as well as welcoming Christian Eriksen and Casemiro to the club during his first window.

An £85m deal for Ajax attacker Antony has also been struck, and Newcastle United goalkeeper Martin Dubravka is also set to join the Red Devils on an initial loan deal for the remainder of the campaign.

Ten Hag does not expect any new faces through the door at Old Trafford after Dubravka and Antony's arrivals, as Man United aim to make it three Premier League wins on the bounce in Thursday's clash with Leicester City at the King Power.