What began as tabloid rumour became dramatic football fact this week when it was revealed Wayne Rooney wants to leave Manchester United.
Boss Sir Alex Ferguson was quick to dismiss claims it was due to a fall out between the two but whatever the reason it is a serious dent to United’s hopes of silverware this season.
In the Champions League last season Rooney virtually carried the Red Devils to the quarter finals, before an ankle injury suffered against Bayern Munich proved the beginning of the end for his and United’s campaign, as those who bet on Champions League games will no doubt remember.
This year the club made a shaky start – etching out a nervy goalless draw with Scottish Champions Rangers. A win in Valencia got them back on track, but the latest revelations regarding Rooney has hit their preparations for the home tie against Bursapor.
An ankle injury is set to keep the England striker out anyway, but if he does leave in January, how far can United realistically go? The Champions League predictions suggest they could struggle.
Since the departure of Ronaldo he is their main goal threat, with the frustratingly inconsistent Dimitatr Berbatov and inexperienced Javier Hernandez their only other options.
Saturday’s league draw with West Brom also highlighted United’s deficiencies at the back and you have to wonder whether they can even get out of their group, let alone reach the latter stages.
Fergie has overcome plenty of challenges in his illustrious career, but this one could be his toughest yet.