"I Hope They Lose" - Former United Star says as he explains Why He Didn’t Stay at Manchester United
Amrabat Reveals Technical Director Jason Wilcox's Role in Preventing His Permanent Move to Old Trafford
Former United loanee Sofyan Amrabat has spoken out a bout why he was unable to secure a permanent deal at Old Trafford last summer as Fenerbahce gets ready to play Manchester United in an eagerly awaited Europa League match. In the previous season, the 28-year-old midfielder was on loan from Fiorentina, where he made significant contributions, such as a wonderful performance in United’s victory against Manchester City in the FA Cup final.
Despite his impressive performance and clear desire to stay at United, a permanent deal offer never came. Speaking to The Mail ahead of Fenerbahce’s match with United, Amrabat said that it was technical director Jason Wilcox who may have been responsible for blocking his return. When asked about why he didn’t join United on a permanent deal, Amrabat said, “The only thing I want to say is that you have to ask Mr. Wilcox.”
“I have had a special relationship with Ten Hag since I was 20 at Utrecht.” The midfielder explained that Ten Hag was happy to keep him at the club, adding, “He wanted to keep me this summer, so I wish him the best—but not for Thursday. I hope they lose,” he said, talking about the upcoming match.
🚨🗣️ Sofyan Amrabat: "I have a special relationship with Ten Hag. He wanted to keep me this summer, so I wish him the best, but not for Thursday. I hope they lose. The reasons for my departure? The only thing I want to say is that you have to ask Mr. Wilcox." #MUFC pic.twitter.com/k1YesY2p1U
— UtdTruthful (@Utdtruthful) October 24, 2024
Last season at Manchester United, Amrabat showed consistency, improvement, and progress. He played a key part in the FA Cup final and won a starting spot in the team’s final three league matches, despite not playing much in the Premier League between Christmas and April. Due to his late-season performances, many fans thought United would exercise their option to buy, and sign him on a permanent deal.
The club’s management, however, decided not to exercise the clause to keep Amrabat at Old Trafford despite Erik ten Hag’s wishes. In an attempt to push through a return to Manchester, Amrabat even declined to train with Fiorentina throughout the summer, according to a report from the Manchester Evening News. In the end, Amrabat’s future remained uncertain until he was able to sign a loan deal with Fenerbahce in August.
Considering his circumstances, Amrabat’s statements have raised questions over United’s decision-making process. Though Ten Hag was keen to keep him, Jason Wilcox’s influence as technical director seems to have been a major factor in keeping the transfer from happening.
Amrabat has made six appearances for Fenerbahce since signing, showcasing his quick adaptation to the Turkish team. But the Europa League match with Manchester United, which he was so close to joining permanently, gives him another opportunity to show off his skills.
Amrabat hasn’t forgotten his time at Old Trafford, but he is committed to helping Fenerbahce win as he gets ready to play Manchester United in the Europa League. If United had decided to keep him, Amrabat would have become an important piece in Ten Hag’s squad for the current season, particularly as the team looks to contest for titles and trophies.
