When you first see articles claiming that Manchester United have been linked to a Croatian play-maker, I’m sure your mind (like mine) will instantly jump to former Tottenham star, Luka Modric. It’s only natural, I suppose. Manchester United have been linked to Modric too many times to possibly keep count.
So it’s a little refreshing to see that the article was actually referring to somebody else. According to The Mirror, both Manchester United and Liverpool are keeping tabs on Ivan Rakitic, with a view to a January move. I’m as surprised as you are to hear that there is more than one decent Croatian play-maker plying his trade in La Liga.
He’s currently Captain of Sevilla, where he has received great notices for his performances this season. Based on what I’ve seen, he’s an excellent technician, with quick feet and an eye for a pass. He’s the exact type of player that Manchester United need at this moment in time.
David Moyes’ side has struggled all season long to create much from their midfield. They may have some of the best strikers in the world at Old Trafford, but they’re current feeding on scraps.
Tom Cleverley is still to young and too raw. I’m not sure what Shinji Kagawa’s best position is. Marouane Fellaini isn’t the most dynamic presence. The list goes on. Suffice to say, this current crop struggle to live up to Manchester United’s high standard.
By drafting in somebody like Rakitic – somebody who exists solely to find the gaps in between defenders and exploit them – Moyes would go a long way towards soothing United’s wounds. I’m not saying it would turn the club into title contenders, but it could help them in the battle for a top four slot.
Rakitic recently told the Press that whilst he was happy at Sevilla, he did have some reservations. Check out these quotes:
“A football player can never say with certainty that he will remain in his club. Such is the nature of our business. I’m in Seville for three years now and in this time many things have changed. It is clear that in such a big club people can not be satisfied with average results.”
It sounds like there is some discontent floating about in his psyche. If Manchester United make their move, I’m sure he’d be tempted. Here’s hoping that David Moyes is interested.
What’s your take? Should Manchester United be interested in Ivan Rakitic?
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