Five Man Utd players guaranteed a place in the team after the January transfer window - with one surprise

The January transfer window is almost upon us with Manchester United’s squad beginning to take shape under Erik ten Hag after a busy summer, which saw the Dutchman sign six first-team players, including Casemiro. However, the winter window will be key for the Red Devils’ boss to continue a rebuild at Old Trafford, while retaining some players from previous managers.

United have had a steady start under the Dutchman’s stewardship and sit fifth in the Premier League table, three points behind Tottenham Hotspur in fourth and with a game in hand over them, after their opening 14 games. Ten Hag has also guided the club to the Europa League play-off round and the fourth round of the League Cup.

All football at the highest level of the game has come to a halt for the next month due to the 2022 World Cup being held in Qatar. This has led to Ten Hag having 14 of his players at the tournament, while the rest of his squad remains at Carrington in preparation for their upcoming friendly fixtures against Cadiz on 7 December and Betis three days later.

The friendly games in Spain will allow Ten Hag to assess whether those players not at the World Cup will remain part of his plans come the end of the January transfer window. United’s first competitive match after the competition is against Burnley in the fourth round of the League Cup on 21 December, giving the Red Devils’ boss more time to decide who he wants to keep at the club for the second half of the season.

With that being said, ManchesterWorld takes a look at five players we think will remain at United after the January transfer window. One or two of these names might come as a surprise given their past criticism from fans and pundits.

Diogo Dalot

The right-back has been one of United’s best players this campaign and has the joint-second most appearances (20) for the club so far this season. His commitment to both defensive and attacking phases of play has seen him become a trusted name in Ten Hag’s squad, while also preventing Aaron Wan-Bissaka from receiving game-time.

Raphael Varane

The experienced Frenchman is regarded as one of the world’s best centre-back when fit and playing regularly. He has been a rock at the back for United, especially alongside Lisandro Martinez, and can continue to be a key player for the club under Ten Hag.

Scott McTominay

One player who always comes under scrutiny among United’s fanbase, Scott McTominay isn’t regarded as a starter for the club, but can be a vital rotational player when called upon. The 25-year-old wears his heart on his sleeve and gives 100 % when on the pitch - something Ten Hag admires.

Anthony Martial

The forward has struggled for game-time this campaign due to injuries, but it’s hard to argue, when fit and playing, the Frenchman is a handful for most oppositions. He has already scored twice and provided the same number of assists in the Premier League, and unlike other seasons, genuinely looks interested in being an important player for the club.

Alejandro Garnacho

The 18-year-old has been a breath of fresh air since making his first-team debut last campaign and looks like he will develop into an incredible talent. He has featured eight times in all competitions so far this season, scoring twice and providing three assists, and with his contract expiring in the summer, the club need to do everything they can to tie him down to a new deal as soon as they can.