Manchester United have been searching all summer to find players who can get United back to the top. Players who can come in and lift the mood around Old Trafford, which seems to have been damped during the tenure of Jose Mourinho’s predecessor LVG. There will be a huge clear out this summer at Old Trafford in order to make space for the incoming players. The ongoing Euros gives players the perfect chance to showcase their talent in front of a world audience and generate interest amongst the top clubs of Europe.
One player who has been constantly linked with Manchester United this season, is the Borussia Dortmund forward Henrikh Mkhitaryan. With United and Arsenal among a host of other top clubs interested in the Armenian’s signature, Dortmund are holding firm and have categorically said that they aren’t looking to sell their prized asset right now. Mkhitaryan scored 11 league goals and provided 15 assists as Dortmund finished second behind Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga last season. The forward has one year left on his contract, which might persuade Dortmund hierarchy to sell him this summer for a hefty profit rather than have him leave for free next season. Here we look at the pros and cons of Mkhitaryan moving to United.
Pros
Age
Mkhitaryan at 27 has hit a purple patch in his life. If he comes to United, he can lead the line for the next 3-4 year. Mourinho is a perfect manager for molding the Armenian into becoming one of the most lethal attacking midfielders in the world. With crucial players leaving Dortmund this summer, he is always going to play second fiddle to Bayern Munich and at united he has the chance to work with a manager who loves winning trophies wherever he goes.
Goals
For a midfielder, Mkhitaryan’s return of 11 league goals last season, 23 in all competitions is phenomenal. Although he is a midfielder by trade, he is also very much capable of playing as the second striker if the situation demands it. He is not only an expert in getting his name on the scoresheet but is also brilliant at creating goal scoring opportunities for his teammates. He is armed with a dangerous shot, exceptional dribbling ability and a superb vision to go for the pass.
Cons
Young players getting sidelined
One of the better things to come out of Van Gaal’s rein was the emergence of some very talented youngsters from the academy. Although most of them only got their chance once international stars were injured. United finished last season with a front line of Marcus Rashford, Martial and Jesse Lingard all still infant in their professional careers . However with the arrival of Mkhitaryan, these youngsters might be pushed back in order to make space for the Dortmund player, which wouldn’t go down well with the fans and as well as hamper the development of these players.