Manchester United youngster Alvaro Fernandez was left out of this summer’s pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia and that decision has now been explained, with the exciting prospect sealing a season-long loan to the Championship.
Fernandez, who has taken the United ranks by storm from left wing-back, was close to making a breakthrough under Ralf Rangnick last season after regularly featuring in training and matchday squads.
Preston North End have now confirmed that the Spaniard has joined them on loan.
“I’m very happy, and I want to start with this club as soon as possible,” Fernandez said. “I’ve spoken to the manager about the football, it’s so good. I like his plans for the season so I want to start.”
Fernandez joined United from Real Madrid two years ago and has quickly overgrown his status as an academy player, winning the U23 Player of the Year award last term.’
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Shortly after his move to Preston was announced, United confirmed that Fernandez had signed a new contract at the club as part of the agreement.
Fernandez’s renewed terms will see him stay at the club until 2024, with the club maintaining an option to extend that deal for an additional season.
SN’s verdict…
United were well-stocked at left-back at senior level, with Ten Hag wrestling with the thought of fitting Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Brandon Williams and Alex Telles into one squad.
It’s likely that at least one of the aforementioned players will be sold but even then, it’s unlikely that Fernandez would be offered the opportunity to regularly feature.
A loan move seems like a reasonable plan of action and if he impresses in the Championship, he’ll return for pre-season next year with a point to prove.
