Aheed Abrar
Roger Schmidt concerned about “risk of losing players” in January amidst Manchester United interest in Enzo Fernandez
SL Benfica manager Roger Schmidt is concerned about the “risk of losing players” in January amidst interest from Manchester United in Enzo Fernandez.
Premier League rivals Liverpool are also eyeing the 21-year-old’s signature. But Chelsea are the one leading the race at the moment for the Argentina international who won the 2022 World Cup.
Speaking to the media via the Mirror, the Primeira Liga outfit’s head coach revealed there is a risk of having to part ways with talented stars in the transfer window. However, the German manager is focused on the Eagles’ next fixture.
“For now, we’re on the eve of the game and I’m calm. Then the market opens up and when you have players with great talent, you always run the risk of losing players. For now, we’re focused on tomorrow’s game.”
The Lisbon-based club will take on Braga on Friday (30 December). Schmidt’s team are currently at the top of the table in the league and are unbeaten in all competitions in the current campaign.
Fernandez joined Benfica in the recent transfer window from River Plate. Since his arrival, the 21-year-old has been a pivotal player for the Eagle. This term, he has made 24 appearances in all competitions under Schmidt, scoring three goals and providing five assists.
The Primeira Liga outfit also shocked many when they finished first in their group in the Champions League. They pipped Paris-Saint Germain and Juventus to the top spot.
The midfielder was critical to Lionel Scaloni’s team lifting the golden trophy in Qatar. He ended up winning the Young Player of the Tournament award as La Albiceleste were crowned world champions for the third time in their history.
United’s engine room was reinforced in the summer of 2022 with Christian Eriksen and Casemiro. The two, alongside Bruno Fernandes, have cemented their place in Erik ten Hag’s midfield.
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However, the Red Devils seemingly lack quality in depth in the middle of the park with the likes of Fred, Scott McTominay and Donny van de Beek. Thus, the Old Trafford side could evidently do with more fresh blood like Fernandez in the squad.
