He played just like Prime Gattuso. He showed that there’s still hope for Manchester United midfield. I have rumors that he might be leaving but I’ll make sure that he starts every match next season’: Paul Scholes praises the underrated Manchester United player after the FA Cup final performance.
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes showered praise on midfielder Sofyan Amrabat following his exceptional performance in the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.
The Moroccan international was selected to play in the number six position against the Cityzens, getting the nod over Casemiro, who wasn’t fully fit for the final.
Amrabat showcased an impressive display, making 37 touches and completing 93 percent of his passes (25 out of 27). He also won two duels, made two clearances, executed two tackles, and blocked one shot.
Remarkably, the midfielder only lost possession three times, which was highly commendable in such a crucial final.
Shortly after the 2-1 victory, Scholes took to Instagram to praise Amrabat, likening the 27-year-old to a “prime Gattuso” for his performance on the grand stage.
Amrabat joined the Red Devils from Fiorentina on loan last summer amidst significant speculation.
United paid a substantial loan fee of €10 million to secure his services. Initially deployed as a left-back by manager Erik ten Hag, Amrabat later made several appearances in midfield.
Amrabat had not received a fair opportunity to establish himself until this month. After delivering solid performances against Arsenal and Newcastle United, he was rewarded with a starting role in the final.
The 56-cap international capitalized on this opportunity with a splendid showing. The question now arises whether United will consider exercising the €20 million option to buy him at the end of the season.
With Casemiro no longer at his peak, the club should contemplate retaining Amrabat and potentially offloading the Brazilian. However, the new management may have different plans in mind.
Amrabat could still ply his trade in the Premier League next season, with Fulham and Crystal Palace reportedly sending scouts to monitor his recent performances.
Sofyan Amrabat’s standout performance in Manchester United’s 2-1 FA Cup final victory over Manchester City has drawn widespread acclaim, with club legend Paul Scholes leading the praise. Playing in the pivotal number six role, Amrabat delivered a commanding display, stepping up in place of an unfit Casemiro.
### **Key Highlights of Amrabat’s Performance**
– **Passing Excellence:** Completed 93% of his passes (25/27) under immense pressure.
– **Defensive Contributions:** Recorded two tackles, two clearances, two duels won, and a crucial blocked shot.
– **Possession Control:** Lost possession only three times in a high-stakes match.
Scholes compared Amrabat to a “prime Gennaro Gattuso,” acknowledging the Moroccan’s blend of tenacity, intelligence, and composure in midfield.
### **Amrabat’s Journey at United**
Since joining on loan from Fiorentina last summer for a €10 million fee, Amrabat has had a mixed spell at Old Trafford:
– **Early Challenges:** Initially deployed as a left-back by Erik ten Hag.
– **Midfield Reintegration:** Recent games have seen him flourish in his natural midfield role, delivering standout performances against Arsenal, Newcastle, and now City.
### **Future at Manchester United**
United have an option to purchase Amrabat for €20 million at the end of the season. Given Casemiro’s decline and Amrabat’s recent resurgence, retaining the Moroccan seems a logical move. However, with new management possibly shaping transfer policies, his long-term future at the club remains uncertain.
### **Transfer Interest**
Should United choose not to make the loan permanent, Amrabat has garnered interest from Premier League clubs like Fulham and Crystal Palace, who are monitoring his situation closely.
### **What’s Next?**
Amrabat’s dominant showing in the FA Cup final has not only bolstered his reputation but also presented a strong case for United to invest in his potential. As United look to rebuild under new leadership, Amrabat could be a crucial piece in their midfield puzzle moving forward.