Manuel Akanji to United: Dortmund star opens up on move to Old Trafford

Manuel Akanji to United: The defender opened up on the possibility of a move to Old Trafford in the future.

Manchester United didn’t make the best of starts in the Premier League this season. The club is currently 8th in the league with 13 points. Moreover, Jose Mourinho’s side conceded losses to Brighton and West Ham in the league, and lower-league side Derby County in their first match of Carabao Cup.

The season was further marred with controversy, as midfielder Paul Pogba has overtly criticized the manager’s tactics in post-match interviews. After the defeat to Derby County, Mourinho and Pogba were caught arguing during a training session.

Goals have dried up for the club, as United has a goal difference of -1 in the league. Romelu Lukaku and Marcus Rashford have missed significant chances in front of the goal this season.

Jose Mourinho is also facing issues with his defence. Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof have been underwhelming this season so far, and the manager has even tried Scott McTominay, and for the second half against Newcastle, Paul Pogba in central defence.

And so, the recent comments from Borussia Dortmund defender Manuel Akanji might seem interesting for Manchester United fans.

Manuel Akanji to United:

The Swiss defender joined Borussia Dortmund in January this year, and has since established himself as a first-team regular for the club. In the 2018/19 season, Akanji has played full 90 minutes in every match for Dortmund, across all competitions.

Borussia Dortmund are currently at the top of the Bundesliga table, four points clear of Bayern, who are 6th.

Akanji stated that a move to Old Trafford would be a dream-come-true for him.

“I have a big dream – To get as far as possible in football,” said Akanji.

“Since my childhood days, Manchester United have been my favorite club. I’d like to play there one day.

“But right now, that’s not an issue. I am happy at Dortmund and try to be the best possible person off the pitch.”

What next?

Manchester United are reportedly in the market for the defender, but there are various speculations over who would United sign. Jose Mourinho is keen on a January transfer for a central defender, according to various reports.

Meanwhile, the club is also close to agree a new contract with left-back Luke Shaw. The English defender has been one of the rare delights for Manchester United fans this season.

Shaw was forced to spend most of his time at United on the sidelines due to injuries and inconsistency in form.