08 August 2023 , 12:48
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Wout Weghorst has thanked Manchester United for allowing him to live a "childhood dream" after confirming he would not be returning to the club this season.
Following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo last January, Weghorst was a shock arrival at Old Trafford on a short-term loan deal. That development followed then parent club Burnley cancelling his previous loan stint with Besiktas in Turkey.
The Dutch forward failed to make a real impression at Old Trafford though, scoring just twice in his 31 appearances in all competitions. And those goals came outside of the Premier League, scoring in a League Cup semi final against Nottingham Forest and in the Europa League against Real Bets.
However, the 31-year-old started the 2-0 League Cup final win against Newcastle in February, setting up United's second goal for Marcus Rashford. It represented the first major honour of his career, whilst he also appeared as a substitute in the FA Cup final defeat to Manchester City.
Weghorst clearly harboured hopes of extending his stay in the north of England, but he's now confirmed he's played his last game for the Red Devils. He posted an emotional video on Instagram, with footage of his best moments at the club, that read: "Childhood dream. Thank you for everything Manchester United."
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The post comes amid BILD reporting that Hoffenheim are on the verge of completing a season-long loan deal with Burnley for the player. Vincent Kompany seemingly does not have plans to utilise the striker, despite his recent Premier League experience.
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Weghorst celebrates scoring for United (@wout.weghorst/Instagram)
The striker celebrates the League Cup win in February (@wout.weghorst/Instagram)And a clear indication that he was set to leave the Clarets came on the weekend, when he was omitted from the Burnley squad for their friendly with Mainz. Weghorst previously spent four seasons in Germany on Wolfsburg, scoring 70 times, a stint undoubtedly noted by Hoffenheim.
Any prospect of Erik ten Hag seeking to extend his deal at United seemingly ended on the weekend, when the club completed the £72 million signing of Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund. It ended a summer long-pursuit of the Danish star.
However, he won't be available for United's opening Premier League fixtures at Wolves next Monday night. The 20-year-old is still struggling from a minor leg injury he picked up in pre-season with his former club.