If there’s one thing no one can criticize to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is the fact that he has been giving playing time to several youngsters and up-and-coming prospects ever since he assumed as Manchester United’s manager.
Andreas Pereira, Axel Tuanzebe, Angel Gomes and Mason Greenwood have featured on the side of late, although with different levels of success and regularity. But one of the club’s most coveted youngsters is clearly struggling to make the jump to the senior level.
That’s Tahith Chong. The Dutch winger, who impressed last term with the youth side and delivered some strong performances during pre-season, is now a member of the senior squad. But unlike some of the other youngsters, he just hasn’t looked good when given the chance.
This has been especially true in his last two appearances. He failed to make an impact against FK Astana in the UEFA Europa League. The same thing happened earlier this week against Rochdale in the EFL Cup. Chong looked serviceable on both matches, but more is expected out of him. Especially on the final meters, where he hasn’t been able to become a difference maker with his pace.
So, what should Solskjaer do with the 19-year-old winger? He will keep receiving chances to play since Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford have dealt with injuries of late. But eventually, a loan move away from Old Trafford might suit him best. Chong is at a stage of his career where he needs to play as much as possible to continue his development.
Perhaps a short loan spell at the Championshp might suit him best. Manchester United must be patient with Chong, but they also must understand that if he isn’t playing at the required expectations, then he might be better suited to play elsewhere. But they can’t sell him and let him leave for good.
He’s too good to leave Old Trafford and never return. He just needs time to polish his skills. And United should give him as much time as he wants. He is definitively worth the wait.
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