Should Manchester United let Daniel James leave?

It has been no secret that Daniel James hasn’t been a regular in Manchester United’s team since signing in the summer of 2019. The 23-year-old has noticeably struggled to make his way into the club’s front three, as strong competition from Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood, Anthony Martial and Edinson Cavani has stood firmly in his path.

However, the youngster was brought back into the starting XI in the Europa League against Real Sociedad and did not disappoint. He set up Bruno Fernandes’ second goal before scoring United’s fourth goal of the game.

James used his pace to exploit Sociedad’s weaknesses and was clinical in front of goal. His pace allowed the speed of play to pick up and he found space behind full backs to create chances.

Solskjaer admitted he was impressed with James and had not forgotten about him, despite his lack of playing time this season. As reported by BBC, the manager said:

"“Dan has always been in my mind; he is always in contention.”"

Should James stay at Manchester United?

The joy doesn’t stop there for James and he made a second consecutive appearance for the Red Devils, against Newcastle United in the Premier League. The Magpies were strong in the first half, leaving the game 1-1 at half time but their party was spoiled when James’ fine run of form continued. He fired a low, driven shot into the bottom right-hand corner after a clever, defence splitting piece of football.

This run of form is something many did not expect from James after so long on the sidelines. Many now see him as direct competition to Anthony Martial, who is going through a bad patch of form and is not performing on the pitch, and James certainly seems up for the competition.

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Many had come to the conclusion that after some lacklustre performances last season, James’ days at United were numbered. However, it is clear that he is a trusted player for Solskjaer and the two have a good relationship which will certainly not harm his chances of staying.

James is clearly the type of player who can have a spell on the bench and still come on and perform if the team needs it. His pace and on sight shooting ability are the perfect way to pounce on the tired opposition defences.

When it comes to winning trophies, you need a strong squad; not only for rotation purposes but different opposition causes for different tactics. James is the perfect player to exploit slow defences or teams who have not had a long rest period between games. Not only that but despite the lack of playing time, he has insisted that he is still happy at United and still gets called up for the Wales National Team, where he plays under Ryan Giggs.

For now, it seems like James is firmly a part of Solskjaer’s plans and will continue to make appearances for the first team while his attacking competitors fall in and out of form.