Patrice Evra has joined Juventus just months after signing a new deal at Old Trafford, and there is no doubt United are running a substantial risk in letting the experienced full-back leave.
Today, Manchester United confirmed the Frenchman is on his way out, for a reported fee of around £1.2million. In terms of today’s money in football, a steal for the Bianconeri.
But, with reports suggesting that the deal could see Vidal head in the opposite direction, selling the veteran who is undoubtedly passed his best, from that point of view, seems a very wise choice.
However, with Ferdinand, Vidic and now Evra leaving the club this summer, you have to question United’s priorities. Dismissing aged players is common, but the Reds are losing plenty of experience and vital leadership in their back-line. Stability is generally considered to be one of the most important aspects of defence but after a disastrous last campaign, a transformation was expected.
Already part of that alteration, left back Luke Shaw. Emerging as one of the most highly rated youngsters in the Premier League, the former Saint has bags of potential. Nevertheless, it may be too much asking the 18 year old to command the left side with no competition, which could swerve soared pressure. Moving from all experience to a youngster will always be a gamble.
The man he’s replacing was United’s most appeared outfield player last season, starting 33 times. Evra has been a key part to the Red’s defence over the last 8 years, a vice captain and a fans favourite in many ways. A huge reputation to live up to.
‘Paddy’ is one who understands what United is all about, the passion he committed will be truly missed and ever since he arrived, he hasn’t stopped educating himself about the history of the club and the English game. The veteran’s presence would have proved a real influence on Shaw but the apparent understudy and the perfect role model will no longer be. Evra would have given the new man a chance to learn from someone who has been there, done that. Also, albeit Shaw was to become the main starter, at least there would be the perfect cover.
It may advance and the fans can only hope Shaw becomes a sensation but if not, Van Gaal will look back at the unnecessary risk to let the foreseen, invaluable mentor go for such a trivial and inane sum.