Where Would Renato Sanches Fit Better If He Leaves Bayern Munich?

Renato Sanches reacts during the Bundesliga match between Bayern Muenchen and 1. FC Koeln at Allianz Arena on October 1, 2016 in Munich, Germany – Credit: Sphera Sports

Renato Sanches’ future is up in the air at the moment. Even though he is considered one of the most talented playmakers in Europe, he is a bit unsettled at Bayern Munich. He does not have a defined squad role within the reigning Bundesliga champions, and no one knows where he will play in the upcoming season.

There are lots of teams that have expressed an interest to sign Sanches on loan, though. But where would he fit better?

AC Milan

AC Milan have been considered the favourites to land the Portugal star ever since the transfer window opened. Milan have been very vocal about their desire to sign the talented playmaker. And Sanches has said he wouldn’t mind a move to Italy. It seems both parties would agree quickly to a move.

However, and against all odds, the transfer has not been finalised yet. Milan have improved their side drastically this summer, and landing Sanches would be the cherry on top of the cake. He could act as a playmaker, but can operate on a wider role if needed as well. And considering Milan have a style that will need pacey players to be successful, Sanches certainly fits the mold of what Vincenzo Montella wants.

Liverpool

No one expected Liverpool to make a push for Renato Sanches. However, the Reds have emerged as the most likely candidate if the playmaker wants to move to the English Premier League. But until Wednesday, no agreement has been made.

The potential move makes sense, though. Liverpool have a talented attacking line led by Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane, but they need a playmaker who can link them up with the midfield. Jordan Henderson and Adam Lallana have a lot of quality, but they are not suited for that role. Sanches is, however, and his playing style is tailor-made for the EPL. They are a step below Milan in the race to sign Sanches, but there is no question they are a team to watch in the coming hours.

Chelsea and Manchester United

Both Premier League clubs have been mentioned as potential destinations for the midfielder. However, all signs indicate both have given up on his pursuit. And honestly that sounds like a clever move, considering neither club represented much of a fit for Sanches in the first place.

Renato Sanches made sense for Chelsea and United a few weeks ago, when both clubs were reportedly on the market to bolster their midfield. But Chelsea signed Tiemoue Bakayoko, and United made a swap for Nemanja Matic. It is quite like he would end up being nothing more than a bench player on both teams. And if that was the case, it would be better for him to remain at Bayern. Why moving for the second time in two years if his situation is not going to change?

Staying At Bayern Munich

Now – what if Sanches does not leave and stays in Bayern instead? Ancelotti repeated time and time again that he wanted the former Benfica player to leave so he can gain some valuable first-team experience. However, in recent days his mindset changed completely. And now he was quoted saying he “does not want to part ways” with the Portugal U21 star.

The problem is that Sanches does not have space in Bayern’s current squad. Even though he can play on a number of roles in midfield, there might not be a role for him in the Allianz Arena outfit.

Think about it. If Ancelotti wanted to play Sanches at CM, he has Arturo Vidal and Corentin Tolisso ahead of him. If he wants to play him as some sort of attacking midfield, then there’s Thiago and Thomas Muller. And on a wing role, the Portuguese would have to compete with Arjen Robben, Franck Ribery and Kingsley Coman.

What Should He Do?

It seems his best chance to get consistent playing time would be to leave Bayern. But if his parent club does not want to let him go, there i not much he can do. But with Milan and Liverpool keen to land the 19-year-old, then Bayern would be wise to send him on loan. Getting consistent playing time is the only way he will reach his sky-high ceiling.