Pranav Nair
Manchester United Under-23s manager Neil Wood wants referees to look out for Hannibal Mejbri
According to Manchester Evening News, Manchester United Under-23s manager Neil Wood has called upon officials to protect Red Devils wonderkid Hannibal Mejbri.
The 18-year-old is one of the best young players at United and has already made a name for himself at the Under-23 level. A prodigiously talented player, he was in much demand while at AS Monaco.
He eventually signed for United in a deal worth €5million in 2019. The transfer could rise to as much as €10m in the future. (h/t The Daily Star)
Those at the club are well aware that they have a special talent on their hands. A savant on the ball, his strength could very well prove to be his Achilles heel.
United are worried that the player’s trickery and skill will see him subjected to rough treatment by opposition defenders. He has thus made a plea to match officials to ensure players don’t react overzealously to coming up against Mejbri.
“If the referee is not protecting him, he’s going to get his leg broken. That’s what I fear for him.”
Woods has every right to fear for his prized asset and hopefully, officials will take cognizance of his request. The Under-23 boss is afraid that if things stay as they are, the youngster will get his leg broken one day.
A habit to shake off
A tough player to pin down, Mejbri is often the victim of fouls. In an adrenaline-filled game such as football, all it takes is one mistimed tackle to end a player’s career.
“I think Hannibal has lots of quality and the frustrating point for him is that there must be about 15 fouls on him per game.”
Hopefully, better sense will prevail and the youngster will go on to fulfil his potential at the club.
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Mejbri appears to be a tough player capable of rising to the challenge. He broke his nose within the first 10 minutes of our clash against Accrington Stanley but went on to finish the game nevertheless. (h/t Daily Star)
The youngster appears to have both the heart and ability of a fighter and it will hold United in good stead going forward.
