Manchester United’s success in the Europa League could spark a spending spree in order to get us back to the glory days. The 2-0 win over Ajax completes the set since the Europa League was a title that we had never won in the past. More importantly, it gives us entry into the Champions League group stages next season without any qualifiers. The latter part of the statement is especially important as it helps United start the summer shopping spree even though the season is not technically over yet.
Antoine Griezmann has been one of the main transfer targets for the club over the last 12 months. After having been consistently linked with the Red Devils, the striker finally admitted that it was possible for him to move to Old Trafford in the summer. This comes as a major statement and one that puts United closer to signing the 26-year-old. He is expected to cost a whopping £86million.
Yet, Griezmann’s signing alone will not make United title challengers overnight. The French forward comes with a unique style. His strong left foot and the ability to take free kicks from almost any range are factors that set him apart from the rest of the players. However, he does not have a huge physical presence and has always lived off the knockdowns from big strikers – like Kevin Gameiro and Fernando Torres at Atletico Madrid. Griezmann will take some time adjusting to life in the Premier League, although he has the ability to make a strong start.
There is every possibility of the player feeling a huge weight on his shoulders due to the transfer fee. This was something that clearly affected midfielder Paul Pogba in his first few months at the club. Only now we are starting to see the best out of the French midfielder, who scored the opening goal in the game against Ajax.
It is imperative that United fans and critics have their expectations low with regard to Griezmann. The signing of the Frenchman alone will not make United title challengers overnight, and United manager Jose Mourinho seem to be aware of this aspect. As a result, the club are expected to go on a spending spree that will also see the arrival of few other star players from some big clubs in Europe. Next season will be the campaign in which Jose Mourinho could unleash his impact on the club.
