A sensational return to Old Trafford for defender Patrice Evra seemed all but confirmed, as the negotiations were progressing well. Juventus recently left the left back out of the squad citing commitment issues from the 35-year-old. At his age, Evra was surprisingly convinced to sign a one-year contract with Juventus with the option of a second year. After playing a major role at the club last season, he has been a fringe player in this campaign. The former Monaco defender does not seem to have taken this development lately, as he wants to be playing regularly, if not turning his attention towards a coaching career.

It appeared that he may be set for a return to United, who showed a lot of interest in signing him. Instead, the defender decided on a return to French football after linking up with Marseille. One of the major factors behind the move to Marseille was a huge contract which will see him at the club until the summer of 2018. Rather than moving to North America or the Chinese Super League, Evra has tried to stay competitive even towards the end of his career. There seems to be no slowing down the 35-year-old, who may have joined United had it been for some circumstances according to his agent.

“There was contact between the player and Jose Mourinho. If there had been an opportunity to return, he would have done everything to go back to Manchester United. Federico Pastorello (his agent)  was quoted by Metro Sport.

“The key to part of the transfer to Marseille was the meeting with sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta.”

Now, it looks like the interest from United was not so serious after all. United have been after several defenders, midfielders, and forwards in this January transfer window. Benfica defender Victor Lindelof, Roma defender Manolas, and Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann are some of the names linked with a move to United.

Jose Mourinho has been increasingly concerned about the squad strength after qualifying for the fifth round of the FA Cup and reaching the EFL Cup final in the space of a few days. Even though it may seem that these two competitions will only add a couple of games to the fixture schedule, United also have to contend with the Europa League games. The situation has become so desperate that Mourinho has even included Bastian Schweinsteiger in the mix. The German midfielder was out of favour earlier in the campaign and was widely expected to leave the club in January.

At times like these, a signing like Evra would have made a major difference to the squad. As it is, United will certainly miss the experience of the Frenchman. During his eight years at United, Evra became firmly established as one of the fan favourites. He won major honours like the Champions League, Premier League, and FIFA Club World Cup titles.