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Man Utd may regret not signing Rayan in January as the Brazilian forward impresses for Bournemouth

Originally posted on HITC | By Jonny Maze | Last updated Feb 11, 2026 11:41 AM ET

Manchester United didn’t bring anyone in during the January window, but it’s not because they lacked options. INEOS had chances to act but chose not to pursue one Brazilian prospect.

Following United’s 1-1 draw with West Ham, there’s one area of the squad that clearly could have used some reinforcement.

Michael Carrick has helped steady things, but breaking down deep-lying defences continues to be a recurring issue for this side.

Bryan Mbeumo may have set up a late goal, but his overall performance on the left wing was lacking. So far, Carrick hasn’t found a solution to replace Patrick Dorgu properly, even though an opportunity was there in January.

Manchester United already feeling the impact of passing on Rayan

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Even though there were clear concerns about the left wing back in January, Ineos chose not to bring in reinforcements. That decision is starting to look questionable with Mbeumo’s continued struggles.

The club clearly had funds available and showed a willingness to spend when the right opportunity arose. One move that now stands out as a missed chance was passing on Rayan before he joined Bournemouth as their replacement for Semenyo.

The Brazilian winger had been linked with a switch to Old Trafford and came highly regarded, tipped by many as one of South America’s most exciting young prospects.

Bournemouth moved quickly, and he’s wasted no time making an impression in the Premier League. He has two goals and an assist in his first three appearances for them already.

Rayan only cost £24.7m, a fee that’s already starting to look like good business for Bournemouth given how well he has settled in so far. Their scouting team may have found another gem here, while United are left wondering what might have been.

Andoni Iraola is already impressed by Rayan

Bournemouth’s new signing Rayan has hit the ground running in his short time in the Premier League, and boss Andoni Iraola is a fan of what he’s seen so far.

The left-footed winger has quickly found his place on the south coast, scoring twice and assisting once in just three appearances since his arrival from Vasco da Gama.

While it’s still early days, Rayan’s performances have made an immediate impact, giving Bournemouth a strong start to their January business.

Andoni Iraola has been pleased with Rayan’s early contributions, recognising the character and personality he brings despite being new to the club.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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