Roland Cutinho
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag hesitant to let Hannibal Mejbri join Besiktas this summer
As stated by the Manchester Evening News, Manchester United rejected a loan proposal from Besiktas for Hannibal Mejbri.
Despite the transfer window still being open for Turkish clubs, Erik ten Hag appears hesitant to allow the Tunisian star to leave Old Trafford this summer.
While the 20-year-old made a positive impression during United’s pre-season matches, the recent signings of Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat may have an impact on his game time. The resurgence of teenage sensation Kobbie Mainoo has also pushed him down in the pecking order.
During pre-season, Ten Hag deployed Hannibal as an attacking midfielder, where the young player showed a remarkable work rate and excellent passing skills.
Furthermore, his noteworthy performances in the Championship while on loan at Birmingham City last season were also impressive.
Although Hannibal did not secure a place in Ten Hag’s squad for the first three Premier League games of the season, he found himself on the bench against Arsenal due to Jadon Sancho’s recent absence.
In that match, the African star was among the substitutes but did not get to play as Man United lost 3-1. However, if Sancho doesn’t regain his position in his manager’s plans, the academy graduate may have more opportunities in the first team.
Nonetheless, the youngster’s contract with the Red Devils will expire in 2024, and it remains uncertain whether the club intends to activate the 12-month extension option in his contract.
The English giants presently boast three choices for the defensive midfield position: Casemiro, Amrabat, and Mainoo.
The number eight role is expected to be taken by either Christian Eriksen or Mount. The number 10 position is currently occupied by Bruno Fernandes.
Additionally, the manager has the flexibility to consider Scott McTominay for an attacking role, given his recent impressive performances for Scotland. Donny van de Beek remains at Old Trafford, but the club is actively looking for a sale option.
Hannibal possesses exceptional talent, but at a prominent club like Man United, talent alone may not guarantee success.
In order to refine his skills, he requires consistent playing opportunities, which could prove challenging to secure at Old Trafford.
His most viable chances for first-team action seem to be in competitions like the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup.
More Manchester United News
- Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes praises new goalkeeper André Onana
- Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes highlights 3 things Mason Mount brings to the team
- Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmand has provided a fitness update on Manchester United star Rasmus Hojlund
It will be interesting to see the extent of his participation in the early part of the season if he continues to stay at the Theatre of Dreams.
