Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has officially confirmed the departure of Chris Smalling to AS Roma on a season-long loan deal. The move, finalized in recent days, sees the 29-year-old center-back embark on a new chapter in Serie A, with United receiving a £2.7m loan fee. Babu88 breaks down the implications of this transfer and its ripple effects on United’s squad dynamics.
Why Smalling’s Loan Makes Sense for Both Parties
Solskjaer addressed the media ahead of United’s clash with Southampton, explaining the rationale behind Smalling‘s temporary exit:
“It’s just come up the last couple of days, this opportunity for Chris. We sat down yesterday and discussed it. At the moment, we have six fit center-backs, and I couldn’t promise him regular football. He’s on the plane now, and I think he’ll enjoy the experience. It’s a good club, a big league. Not many English players get the chance to play in Italy, and I’m sure he’ll return stronger.”
With Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelöf, Eric Bailly, Phil Jones, Axel Tuanzebe, and Marcos Rojo all competing for spots, Smalling’s playing time would have been limited. Roma, meanwhile, gains an experienced defender with Premier League and Champions League pedigree—a smart short-term solution for Paulo Fonseca’s side.
Sanchez’s Exit and United’s Striking Options
This isn’t United’s first loan departure to Italy this week. Alexis Sanchez completed his move to Inter Milan, reuniting with former teammate Romelu Lukaku. Solskjaer admitted the Chilean forward needed a fresh start:
“Alexis needed to go. He’s been here 18 months, and it hasn’t worked out. For him to restart, play regularly, and score goals will benefit everyone. Now we’ll watch him and Lukaku together every weekend.”
Sanchez’s exit leaves Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial, and teenage sensation Mason Greenwood as United’s primary attacking options. Solskjaer insists they’re ready to shoulder the responsibility, but fans may wonder if reinforcements are needed before the European window closes.
Zlatan’s Joke and Darmian’s Likely Exit
When Zlatan Ibrahimovic recently joked about returning to United, Solskjaer responded with a mix of humor and realism:
“If he was 28, not 38 next month, it’d be different. Zlatan had a great time here, but his injury came at the wrong time. He’s got my number—if it’s serious, I’ll speak to him.”
Meanwhile, Matteo Darmian is expected to follow Smalling to Serie A, with Solskjaer acknowledging interest from Italian clubs. Marcos Rojo, however, will stay despite Everton’s Deadline Day interest.
Babu88 Verdict: A Calculated Gamble
United’s decision to loan Smalling reflects Solskjaer’s trust in his remaining defenders. While the move risks thinning squad depth, it gives Smalling a chance to reignite his career in a competitive league. Sanchez’s exit, meanwhile, removes a high-wage burden, allowing younger forwards to flourish.
Will these changes pay off? Only time will tell, but Babu88 will be tracking every development. Stay tuned for more in-depth analysis and breaking updates!
What do you think of Smalling’s loan? Could United regret not keeping him? Share your thoughts below!
