“It doesn’t strike me as an essential signing for Manchester United” : Gary Neville was skeptical over Manchester United’s pursuit of Raheem Sterling
The Red Devils have been one of the busiest clubs in the top 5 leagues during the summer transfer window. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS have made important additions to strengthen the squad overall, with the signings of Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui for defensive duties while also bringing in Joshua Zirkzee for implementing their attacking ways.
There have also been major departures to be able to secure these signings, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Hannibal Mejri, Mason Greenwood and Donny van de Beek seeing out from the club. The signings have not stopped though, as United also recently agreed the deal to sign Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte for a hefty fee, which has led to criticism among the fanbase that whether or not the 23-year-old is worth the price tag.
Erik ten Hag would certainly be a happy man regardless, but with the transfer deadline coming up soon, the Red Devils have been linked with yet another star player, although a bit more polarizing than others.
Gary Neville opines on why Raheem Sterling was not a good option for Manchester United
Ever since his departure from Manchester City two years ago, Raheem Sterling has been facing problems in his career, whether it is due to injuries or in terms of form. The Englishman was also not included in the recent Euros squad, and the last straw came when new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca publicly stated that the 29-year-old is not in his plans going into the season.
Football pundit and former Manchester United skipper Gary Neville also revealed that he is not in favour of the Englishman joining Manchester United this summer due to the already available options they have, although he previously liked working with him in England.
“I love Raheem Sterling, I worked with him very closely with England when I was there, but I’m not sure why Manchester United would see that as a piece of business,” said the 49-year-old (via Sky Sports).
“Looking at their squad, they’ve got players who they want to get the best out of – they’ve got Amad, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony and Marcus Rashford who play in those areas, if they’re losing faith in one or some of those players, then maybe they would sign Sterling. But it doesn’t strike me as an essential signing for Manchester United. They’ve got four players in those areas who they need to play into form.” Neville added.
The Red Devils currently possess a stacked roster and have great backup options available in each position, especially the wings where youngsters Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo are proving themselves every match. Although both Marcus Rashford and Antony have not had the greatest of years, it would have been disrespectful to both of them by signing a 29-year-old Sterling who is coming off a dry stretch himself.
