José Mourinho key to signing ex Man United star, says Fabrizio Romano
By Kian Long
Manchester United's loan deal for Sofyan Amrabat expired in the summer of 2024. After some consideration, the Red Devils made the wise decision to not sign the Morocco international peramanently.
However, towards the end of August, the former Man United loanee secured another loan move away from Fiorentina. For this season, he has travelled to Turkey to represent Fenerbahçe.
Fenerbahçe sit top of the Süper Lig table. They have picked up a respectable ten points, so they are positioned ahead of Galatasary. However, it is worth noting that Fenerbahçe have played one game more than Galatasaray.
It has now been revealed that former Man United manager José Mourinho, who is the current manager of Fenerbahçe, was key to signing Sofyan Amrabat.
José Mourinho key to signing ex Man United star, says Fabrizio Romano
According to Fabrizio Romano on X (formerly Twitter), Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone called consistently to convince Sofyan Amrabat. However, Fiorentina only accepted Fenerbahçe's proposal. José Mourinho played a key role as Fenerbahçe manager, having spoken to Amrabat to convince him.
In his own words, Fabrizio Romano said: "Diego Simeone called Sofyan Amrabat several times during the final week of August but Atlético Madrid were not including any buy obligation clause in loan deal. Fiorentina only accepted Fenerbahçe bid, Sofyan accepted as he also spoke to José Mourinho."
Now, Man United fans could witness a "what could have been" moment as one of their former players will link up with their former manager. However, Man United fans will not be too emotional about this, considering Amrabat did not set the world on fire when representing Old Trafford.
He was an adequate player in the 2023/24 season but this is the extent of his tenure. He hardly pushed for a place in the starting lineup and instead, played a solid backup role. He simply didn't do enough to justify being signed permanently. This is just how it is.
Manchester United have an exciting midfield for the future. They have Kobbie Mainoo, who is one of the best young players in the world (recognised by qualifying for the 2024 Kopa Trophy). In many ways, it was the Englishman's rise to stardom in 2023/24 which prevented Amrabat from a spot in the lineup.