Hannibal Mejbri has been promoted to the first-team – and he will feature in the squad vs Middlesbrough later.
Manchester United Football Club got where they are today by believing in the next generation. From Sir Matt Busby, to Sir Alex Ferguson, it’s where the Red Devils have excelled.
Over the last decade, United have developed a tendency to shy away from that – favouring marquee signings in an effort to appease fans and appeal to the outer footballing landscape.
I’m pleased to report that Ralf Rangnick is kickin’ it old school and trying to help United return to its roots. It started with Anthony Elanga, who has arguably been United’s best player since breaking into the starting line-up.
Now, another youngster is set to be given that chance; Hannibal Mejbri.
The United starlet has been included in the squad that will take on Middlesbrough today And, from this point forward, he will train with the first team.
While speaking to the club today, Rangnick was full of praise for Hannibal, whom he labelled a ‘promising talent’ who has deserved his promotion to the senior setup.
Check out what the gaffer had to say here:
“We have Hannibal included in the squad,” Ralf told the club exclusively. “He will, from now on, regularly train with us and be a regular member of the squad. He will also be part of the squad for tomorrow’s cup game.
“To be honest, I haven’t seen that much of him as he was with the national team,” he replied, when asked if he’d been impressed in training. “I saw him play in the tournament, not the Africa Cup of Nations but the one before [the Arab Cup].
“I saw him play in the final and, from what I’ve seen so far, I think he’s a promising talent. He deserves to be part of the group for the rest of the season and also part of the group for tomorrow’s game.”
Honestly, I’m chuffed for Hannibal and the timing feels perfect. With Paul Pogba looking likely to leave this summer, United will be looking to recruit a new central midfielder. Perhaps the answer is already right under their nose in Hannibal?
Well, there’s only one way to find out if he’s good enough and that’s by playing. Whether he will start later today is another question, particularly as he was recently involved at the African Cup of Nations.
However, there is still plenty of football to play this season. Hannibal will definitely get his opportunities to prove his worth, while Donny van de Beek leaving on loan increases his chances even further.
I like Hannibal. I think he’s got massive potential to become an absolute world-beater. Sure, it would have been better if this happened in twelve months’ time as the Frenchman would have been further along in his development. But who am I to argue with Rangnick, who obviously thinks he’s ready right now?
Hopefully, we get to see Hannibal play some minutes off the bench later.
Does Hannibal have what it takes to make it at Man United? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
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