Sebastian Jacob
Two Ideal destinations for Man United’s wantaway star Matteo Darmian
Manchester United have a number of defensive issues to solve before the start of the season. Jose Mourinho does not possess too many fully-fit wing-backs at the moment. The manager did sign the likes of Lee Grant, Fred and Diogo Dalot but the latter duo is currently on the treatment table.
Club captain Antonio Valencia is injured and he could miss the start of the season, which leaves Mourinho with Luke Shaw, Marcus Rojo and Matteo Darmian as the only available full-backs in the team. Darmian and Rojo are said to be deadweights at the club, with the former confirming that he would like to leave.
But the Italian could stay beyond August 9 given United’s current defensive woes. They will certainly need his services on the opening day. Darmian made the move to Manchester United in 2015 after impressing with Serie A outfit Torino. He has since gone on to make a total of 54 appearances, scoring 1 goal.
Unfortunately, the Italian has seen himself fall down the pecking order over the last two seasons. One of the primary reasons the former Torino man is looking for a move is the lack of regular football. He was able to muster just 8 appearances in the league last season, of which 3 were as substitutes.
Here we take a look at two clubs the Italian could join should he decide to make the move.
Napoli
The Serie A outfit have been linked with the player and the club are reportedly interested in bringing him back to Italy. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has expressed his desire to the land the player as well.
Darmian could be a part of a new Napoli project under Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian has taken the reins from Sarri and will be aiming to make a strong return to the Serie A. Darmian is calm and composed at the back, rarely prone to making mistakes. He could be the perfect signing for Ancelotti.
The defender also possesses previous experience in Italy, which will be an added bonus. Darmian will be a lot cheaper than many other defenders.
Juventus
Juventus defender Stephan Lichsteiner moved to Arsenal on a free transfer and the Serie A Champions could use a new right-back. Darmian would be an ideal replacement for the departed Swiss international.
The Old Lady has been the most successful Italian club over the last decade and this would be a perfect opportunity for Darmian to revitalise his career. Allegri would be the best manager to mentor the defender to bring him back to his best.
Darmian could slot straight into the void left by Stephan Lichsteiner. He’s impressive going forward and is solid at the back. Darmian doesn’t have the Switzerland international’s pace but he brings his own style of play into the game. Allegri should certainly go for the Italian.
