Ruben Amorim’s recent decisions signal a pivotal moment in Marcus Rashford’s Manchester United journey, potentially marking the start of his exit in the upcoming January transfer window. However, he isn’t the only Premier League player seeking a fresh start this season.

As the new year approaches, it presents an opportunity for many players in the Premier League to rejuvenate their careers. A change of scenery can often be the catalyst for rediscovering form and passion, and several players find themselves at a crossroads, eager for a fresh challenge.

Recent developments suggest that Marcus Rashford’s time at Manchester United is nearing its conclusion. Notably, Ruben Amorim has excluded him from several matchday squads, and Rashford himself has expressed a desire for a “new challenge” in a recent interview. This indicates a significant shift in his professional narrative.

At 27, Rashford is keenly aware that this phase of his career is crucial. While he still has time to make a significant impact, the urgency is palpable. He faces challenges in securing a transfer, but Amorim’s apparent decision to move on could create a conducive environment for a transfer that benefits all parties involved.

Rashford is not alone in his search for a new team. Below, we explore seven prominent Premier League players who are in dire need of a transfer this January to reignite their careers.

Marcus Rashford: Time for a New Chapter

Just two years ago, Rashford was celebrated for his contributions to England’s journey in the 2022 World Cup. Although not a starting player, many believed he deserved a spot in the lineup, especially given his impressive club form, which hinted at his potential.

During that season, he was on track for an astonishing 30 goals. “I believe Marcus is capable of hitting 40 goals in a season,” stated former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag in May 2023, highlighting the expectations placed on him.

Fast forward eighteen months, and the glimpses of Rashford’s former brilliance have become increasingly rare. Amorim’s unexpected tough stance on his playing time has raised eyebrows, but it aligns with ongoing concerns about Rashford’s off-field discipline and attitude, which have been under scrutiny in recent times.

Despite these challenges, it’s clear that Rashford possesses immense talent. He has shown flashes of his best form, although consistency remains an issue. This season, he has netted seven goals across all competitions, notably shining in the 2-1 comeback victory against Brentford. In that match, he created four goal-scoring opportunities, two of which were particularly notable, including an assist for Alejandro Garnacho.

Rashford’s ability to adapt to various attacking roles is another asset. While he primarily prefers the left flank, he has demonstrated versatility by successfully operating on the right wing. This adaptability could make him an attractive prospect for potential suitors in the transfer market.

One of the significant hurdles for any club interested in Rashford is his substantial wage demand, reported to be £325,000 per week. This could lead to Manchester United covering part of his salary to facilitate a transfer. While this scenario is less than ideal, if Amorim has indeed decided to move on, a transfer would likely serve the best interests of all involved.

Christopher Nkunku: Seeking Consistent Game Time

Since joining Chelsea, Christopher Nkunku has struggled to secure regular playing time, especially in competitions he aspires to excel in. His journey in London has been marked by limited opportunities, which has hindered his development and visibility in the Premier League.

In his time at Chelsea, Nkunku has started only four Premier League matches. This season, both of his starts came during the initial matches against Manchester City and rock-bottom Southampton, where the team was still adjusting to numerous new signings. Notably, he has logged more minutes in the UEFA Conference League this season (385) compared to his 18 Premier League appearances (326).

Injuries plagued Nkunku’s previous season, but this term, he has maintained fitness and availability. However, new manager Enzo Maresca seems hesitant to fully integrate him into the first team, leaving Nkunku in a frustrating position.

Despite this lack of game time, Nkunku has proven his worth when called upon, scoring 12 goals this season across competitions, primarily in the Conference League, and showcasing an impressive average of one goal every 85 minutes on the pitch.

As time progresses, it becomes increasingly apparent that Nkunku may not secure a regular spot in Chelsea’s starting XI. With Nicolas Jackson consistently performing well, Nkunku finds himself relegated to cup competitions, which is not enough for a player of his caliber.

Having been the Bundesliga’s top scorer just two seasons ago, Nkunku’s talents could undoubtedly benefit many teams across Europe. He deserves more than being limited to Conference League appearances and sporadic minutes in the Premier League.

Wataru Endo: Liverpool’s Underutilized Midfielder

Wataru Endo, the captain of Japan, was an unexpected acquisition for Liverpool during the summer of 2023. However, he quickly established himself as a reliable presence in the midfield under Jürgen Klopp during what turned out to be the German manager’s final season at the club.

In the 2023-24 season, Endo made 43 appearances across all competitions, starting 34 of those games. He contributed two goals and one assist, showcasing his defensive prowess by ranking third in tackles, with only Alexis Mac Allister and Joe Gomez surpassing his tally of 76. In terms of duels, he was also among the top competitors, amassing 385 duels.

However, with Endo now 31, it has become evident that he was intended as a short-term solution for Liverpool’s midfield. The club’s unsuccessful pursuit of Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad last summer further highlighted this reality. Under new manager Arne Slot, Ryan Gravenberch has emerged as the preferred option in the No. 6 role, relegating Endo to a more limited role.

This season, Endo has primarily featured in late-game scenarios, with most of his appearances coming off the bench to help secure leads. His only starts have been in the EFL Cup, where he notably performed well as a makeshift center-back in Liverpool’s quarter-final victory over Southampton, earning Player of the Match honors on social media.

As the season progresses, Endo has played only 294 minutes, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him seek a transfer away from Anfield in January. Liverpool reportedly rejected a bid from Marseille in the summer, and unless they can bring in another midfielder, a mid-season exit seems unlikely. However, should the opportunity arise, numerous clubs would be eager to acquire his services.

Kieran Tierney: A Left-Back in Limbo

Kieran Tierney’s five-and-a-half-year tenure at Arsenal, following his signing from Celtic, has been marred by persistent injury setbacks. Despite these challenges, he has managed to contribute significantly, making 125 appearances (92 starts) across all competitions for the Gunners. However, his recent performance against Crystal Palace in the EFL Cup quarter-finals marked his first competitive outing since August 2023.

Tierney’s extensive injury history is evident, as documented on Transfermarkt, where his injury list spans over two pages. This prolonged absence has raised concerns about his future at the club, particularly as left-back has become a problematic position for Arsenal.

Currently, Tierney finds himself behind Riccardo Calafiori, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and promising youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly in the left-back hierarchy. Recent reports suggest that Arsenal may be considering releasing Tierney when his contract expires next summer, raising the possibility of a transfer next month, with former club Celtic reportedly interested in reuniting with the player.

During his time at Arsenal, Tierney has contributed five goals and 12 assists, and he had a successful loan spell at Real Sociedad last season, where he made 26 appearances (17 starts). If he can stay healthy, the 27-year-old still has the potential to be a valuable asset for any team.

James McAtee: A Star in Need of Opportunity

With Manchester City currently in disarray, the club must seek new signings in January to invigorate their squad. However, any new arrivals will further diminish James McAtee’s chances of breaking into the first team. The talented 22-year-old attacking midfielder has found himself largely sidelined this season.

This year, McAtee has logged a mere 26 minutes in the Premier League and has participated in only two of City’s last eight matches since his brief appearance off the bench in a Champions League game against Feyenoord, which ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw.

McAtee possesses immense potential, as evidenced by his impressive performance last season at Sheffield United, where he made 30 Premier League appearances. Despite his talent, he hasn’t yet reached the level required to secure a spot in Pep Guardiola’s plans, who is focused on bringing in players capable of making an immediate impact.

To advance his development, McAtee would greatly benefit from a loan move to one of the many Premier League clubs that could provide him with the playing time he needs. A fresh start is crucial for his growth in the competitive environment of top-flight football.

Emiliano Buendía: From Injury to Opportunity

Emiliano Buendía has faced significant challenges over the past year, as he missed the entirety of the 2023-24 season due to a cruciate ligament injury. As he gradually works his way back into Unai Emery’s plans, he is still trying to prove his fitness and regain his place within the squad.

Currently, Buendía has been limited to short substitute appearances for Aston Villa in both the Premier League and Champions League, with his longest outing being just 14 minutes during the recent victory at RB Leipzig. His only two starts this season came in the EFL Cup, a tournament from which Villa has now been eliminated.

The truth is, Villa has significantly strengthened their squad since Buendía’s injury, making his return to the first team increasingly challenging. The team has thrived without him for an entire year and has now established itself as a competitive force in the Champions League. While Buendía is undoubtedly a talented midfielder, his departure in January might not hinder Villa’s progress.

At 27, Buendía is yet to replicate the exceptional form he displayed during his final season at Norwich, where he contributed 15 goals and 16 assists in the Championship. To re-establish himself as a key player, he must find regular playing time, which currently seems unlikely at Villa Park.

Miguel Almirón: A Winger Seeking Revival

Miguel Almirón’s journey at Newcastle has been a rollercoaster ride since his arrival from Atlanta United in January 2019. After a sluggish start, he experienced a remarkable resurgence, but now he finds himself in a challenging position.

During the 2022-23 season, Almirón truly found his form, netting 10 goals in his first 22 Premier League matches—surpassing his total of nine goals scored in his first four seasons combined. He finished the campaign with 11 goals in 34 appearances, but since then, his scoring prowess has dwindled, with only three goals in his last 40 league games.

This season, Almirón has made just seven league appearances, with only one start. In total, he has played 137 minutes, failing to contribute any goals or assists, and has only attempted one dribble while creating a single chance. His overall contribution of 30 goals and 12 assists in 219 appearances for Newcastle highlights his past potential, but manager Eddie Howe seems to have moved on, favoring players like Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, and Jacob Murphy.

With rumors linking Almirón to a potential return to Major League Soccer, and Howe’s comments suggesting that new signings will require player exits, it appears increasingly likely that January could mark the end of Almirón’s tenure at Newcastle.

---

If you enjoyed this analysis, subscribe to our football newsletter for exclusive weekly insights. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media platforms: X, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.