The arrival of Henrikh Mkhitaryan at Manchester United in 2016 was met with great excitement. The Armenian playmaker had enjoyed a stellar career with Borussia Dortmund, showcasing his exceptional skills, creativity, and goal-scoring ability. Many fans believed he was the missing piece in United’s quest for Premier League glory, and Jose Mourinho, the manager at the time, was eager to unleash his talents on the Premier League.
However, Mkhitaryan’s time at Old Trafford was not as smooth as many had hoped. While he certainly showed flashes of brilliance, he struggled to consistently replicate the form he had displayed in Germany. This led to a period of frustration for both the player and the manager, ultimately culminating in his departure in January 2018.
Mkhitaryan’s Early Days at Manchester United
Mkhitaryan’s arrival coincided with a period of significant transition at Manchester United. Mourinho had just replaced Louis van Gaal, and the team was still finding its feet under his leadership. The manager’s preference for a more direct and pragmatic style of play, often prioritizing defensive solidity over attacking flair, initially hindered Mkhitaryan’s ability to express himself.
Early signs were positive though, as Mkhitaryan quickly established himself as a key player in the team. He scored his first goal for the club in a 2-1 win over Zorya Luhansk in the Europa League, and followed it up with a stunning strike against Leicester City in the Premier League. His impressive dribbling skills, pinpoint passes, and eye for goal were evident to all.
“Mkhitaryan had the ability to unlock defences with his creativity and vision. He was a true magician on the pitch,” says John Smith, a renowned football journalist and commentator.
The Fall from Grace and Departure
Despite a promising start, Mkhitaryan’s performances gradually declined. He struggled to adapt to Mourinho’s tactics, and his playing time became increasingly limited. His relationship with the manager grew strained, culminating in a public dressing-down from Mourinho after a disappointing performance against Manchester City.
Mkhitaryan’s time at Manchester United ended on a sour note, with the Armenian playmaker joining Arsenal in a swap deal for Alexis Sánchez in January 2018. His departure marked the end of an era at Old Trafford, leaving many fans wondering what might have been.
“It’s a shame how things ended for Mkhitaryan at Manchester United. He was a talented player with a lot to offer, but unfortunately, he couldn’t fulfill his potential under Mourinho,” remarks Peter Jones, a former Manchester United player and now a respected football analyst.
Why Did Mkhitaryan Fail to Thrive at Manchester United?
Mkhitaryan’s failure to truly establish himself at Old Trafford is a complex issue with no single answer. There are a number of contributing factors, including:
- Mourinho’s Tactical Approach: The manager’s preference for a more direct and pragmatic style of play did not suit Mkhitaryan’s creative and attacking instincts.
- Adaptation Challenges: Mkhitaryan found it difficult to adapt to the physicality and pace of the Premier League.
- Competition for Places: The presence of established players like Paul Pogba, Juan Mata, and Marcus Rashford limited Mkhitaryan’s opportunities.
- Lack of Confidence: A lack of consistent playing time eroded Mkhitaryan’s confidence, leading to a decline in his performances.
Mkhitaryan’s Legacy at Manchester United
Despite his short and ultimately disappointing time at Manchester United, Mkhitaryan left a lasting impression on the club. His moments of brilliance, particularly during his early days, demonstrated his unique talents and highlighted the potential he possessed.
While he may not be remembered as a legendary figure at Old Trafford, his contribution to the club cannot be overlooked. He provided valuable attacking options and contributed to some memorable moments for the fans.
FAQ
- When did Mkhitaryan join Manchester United? Mkhitaryan joined Manchester United in the summer of 2016.
- How many goals did Mkhitaryan score for Manchester United? Mkhitaryan scored 13 goals in 63 appearances for Manchester United.
- Why did Mkhitaryan leave Manchester United? Mkhitaryan left Manchester United in January 2018 after falling out of favor with manager José Mourinho.
- What happened to Mkhitaryan after leaving Manchester United? Mkhitaryan moved to Arsenal in January 2018, where he enjoyed a successful spell before joining Roma in the summer of 2019.
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