Manchester United winger Facundo Pellistri has opened up on making his first start for the club in Thursday’s 1-0 Europa League victory over Real Betis. Despite holding a three-goal advantage, United named a relatively strong squad for their return leg against Betis as Erik ten Hag made just four changes to the XI from the first leg. With Antony missing out through injury, Pellistri was handed a rare start and the 21-year-old was pleased to have finally got the nod to feature right from the off. “It was a very emotional moment for me and my family,” Facundo told United’s official website in an exclusive interview. “I have been working a lot to achieve this moment and I’m really proud, and also really happy because it was a win – that was very important also. “The message from the boss and also my teammates was to do what I know to do on the pitch, what I’ve been doing in training. “That’s why I am playing because of all the work I do in training – that was the message. “If you do well in training, then you are ready to play so that’s why I was confident, and the coach and everyone gave me that confidence.” Having waited for over two years to make his official debut for United, Pellistri didn’t have to wait too long after that to make his full debut which is a sign of things to come. However, Pellistri is set to go out on loan next season to continue his development, but United are not expected to listen to any permanent offers for their promising Uruguayan and want to tie him down to a new deal. In the meantime, Pellistri will be targeting a second consecutive starting appearance when Man United play host to Fulham in the quarter-final of the FA Cup later today.
