The Next Step for Tahith Chong

By Asuzú - July 13, 2020

Tahith Chong has had a few chances this season but not shone in any of them, what's next for him? (Image from Manchester United)

After Tahith Chong arrival from Feyenoord as a 16-year-old, he has ammased 14 first-team appearances and has been a member of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's squad this term. He came off the bench against PSG in Paris and while he was mostly a spectator in that game, he was a part of the celebrations when Rashford scored that winning penalty. He has played more regularly this season, featuring in many Europa League and Domestic cup matches. While he is yet to score for United, he has set up two goals in his last two European appearances, one in the 5-0 win over Brugge and the next in the 0-5 win away to LASK. Despite the speculation in the media about his future with his contract set to expire at the end of this season, he remained focused on his game and was rewarded for his efforts with a new deal:

"Manchester United is delighted to announce that Tahith Chong has signed a new contract, which will keep him at the club until June 2022, with the option to extend for a further year. The Netherlands Under-21 international joined United's Academy in 2016 and has gone on to make 14 appearances for the first team" Manchester United stated via Twitter.

"I think it means everything to me really,” Chong speaking to MUTV. “Coming here as a young kid was a dream come true really. To still be able to play for this amazing club and still be here, I need to keep working hard to keep developing.”

"I’m at a club where, if you work hard, you get your opportunities. It’s all about taking those opportunities as well. I think we’ve got a manager who believes in young players. It’s an exciting time at the moment".

What should be the next step for the young Dutchman?

Tahith Chong plays as a right winger for Manchester United, a position where the in-form Mason Greenwood occupies and Daniel James features off the bench for the moment. He's a player with a promising career and should be playing regularly to improve on his career.

Former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte – have been actively courting for his signature before the arrival of his new deal. According to FC Inter News, the 20-year-old’s representatives were willing to accept the bid from Inter Milan. Chong and Inter were said to be close to reaching a compromise regarding his salary demands, with the club having tabled around £1.3million.

"Tahith has great potential; given his age, ability and work-ethic, we can see that he has a bright future at Manchester United.” Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on Chong.

"He believes. We all believe that he has a future there [#mufc] — but he needs to be playing games and if that means going out on loan then maybe that’s something which we need to be talking about." Jonathan Barnett, Tahith Chong's agent stated.

It will be the best option for the Dutchman to go on loan during the summer transfer window where he would find playing time. Returning to the U23 would hinder his progress and IF Jadon Sancho is to arrive at Manchester United this summer then it's of best interest that Chong looks for playing time elsewhere.