‘A bit late’ – Amrabat reflects on run of games for Manchester United

Opinions are changing on Sofyan Amrabat after two impressive displays in Manchester United’s midfield, but the run of games has seemingly come too late for the Morocco international.

The Manchester United loanee gave his verdict on the late run of games he has received at the club following Wednesday night’s 3-2 win over Newcastle at Old Trafford.

Amrabat has made 28 appearances since joining United on loan from Serie A outfit Fiorentina in the summer, with just nine starts in the Premier League.

The Moroccan hasn’t always played in his preferred position, which is due to the fact United have an injury crisis in defence. Amrabat was utilised at left-back as a result.

Expectations were high for the 27-year-old midfielder when he arrived at Old Trafford, but his form has been inconsistent. He regularly looks too slow for the Premier League.

With that, it’s unlikely that his deal will be made permanent next summer, but his performances against Arsenal and Newcastle were vastly improved. It’s a shame he didn’t play like that throughout the season.

Speaking after the win over Newcastle, Amrabat opened up on his time at United, and suggested he should have been playing earlier.

“I’m very happy we won today,” Amrabat said, as per the Daily Mail. “That’s the most important thing, but of course, it’s nice to show yourself, although it’s still not Sofyan Amrabat at the best I can play.

“I think it’s my second game now in four or five months that I’ve played 90 minutes, so I’m 100 per cent normal, but I’m happy I played good and the tea played good.

“It’ s not been easy because everyone wants to play, I’ve been patient and always ready for the team when they need me, whether for one or 10 minutes, I always give my best.

“You can just work hard and wait for the chance to come. That chance might have come a bit late in the season, but I’m happy it did.”

Furthermore, Amrabat’s agent has been in Manchester for talks this week.

United have an option to trigger the £21.4m option to sign him permanently, having already paid $8.5m to secure a loan deal.

Subscribe to the Stretty News podcast Strettycast for weekly episodes on Manchester United. You can also sign up to the ad-free Stretty Newsletter. Get the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.