Rio Ferdinand gives verdict on Man Utd new boy Sofyan Amrabat after transfer
Rio Ferdinand has hailed Manchester United's new "enforcer" after Sofyan Amrabat sealed a switch to Old Trafford on deadline day.
Despite spending around £170million this summer, Erik ten Hag continued his pursuit of the Morocco star right up until Friday's 11pm deadline, getting a deal over the line with little time to spare. Amrabat has initially joined on a season-long loan, with the club having the option to make the move permanent next summer.
Despite the midfielder being forced to train alone at Fiorentina as he tried to force a move, the saga was seemingly delayed by United's failure to offload players for big money moves before a compromise was reached. And although the 27-year-old wasn't registered in time to face Arsenal on Sunday, it's a timely capture for Ten Hag.
With another new signing in Mason Mount out injured, and the form of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen currently under scrutiny, Amrabat's addition has been welcomed by fans. And club legends too it seems, with Ferdinand hailing the player on his Vibe with Five YouTube channel.
"I managed to see him live at the World Cup two or three times and I think he was very good, even against France," Ferdinand said. "Defensively he’ll give us great cover for someone like Casemiro if he gets suspended or needs resting."
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And in contrast to the departed Fred and out-of-favour Scott McTominay, Ferdinand believes Amrabat is perfectly suited to anchor United's midfield. “At times we’ll need to play two sixes, and he'll be someone who can come in and that's what he's there to do," he continued.
"He's a skilled six, deep player, that's his role. We've had players like Fred, McTominay - no disrespect, they wanted to do well - but I've always said when you look at their player ID, there was never defensive nous in their kit. This guy has that, that's his game.
"He's an enforcer, he stops other teams playing, he's very cute positionally and he's very disciplined. Those are traits you need as a defensive midfielder."
Amrabat starred for Morocco in the World Cup (Getty Images)HAVE YOUR SAY! How do you rate Man United's summer transfer window? Comment below.
Amrabat completed his medical from Pisa on Friday, but isn't due to actually arrive in Manchester until Saturday afternoon. And before his flight, he took to Instagram to bid farewell to Fiorentina's fans.
"After three years at this beautiful club, it's time to take on a new challenge," he wrote. "When I arrived in 2020, I couldn't have imagined all the adventures we'd experience together. Our run in the Conference League and Coppa Italia last year and the many special nights at Stadio Artemio Franchi will live with me forever.
"I want to extend a massive thanks to the club, all players, staff and fans for all the memories we've created. It has been an honour to wear this badge."
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