According to reports, Arjen Robben could be tempted to move to Manchester United in order to complete his reunion with former boss Jose Mourinho. Since their time at Chelsea, Robben shares a good relationship with the Portuguese. Writing for The Player’s Tribune, Robben penned a letter to his younger self, where he was full of praise for the Manchester United boss.
And your boss? His name is Jose Mourinho.
“I should prepare you. Because he will expect a lot of you … and of everyone. Right away, you’ll feel the difference in playing for a Premier League club. You’ll need to be tougher, stronger, faster.
“You’ll have to prove yourself all over again once you get there. And prove yourself to Jose every single week to stay in the lineup.
“Look, a lot has been said about Jose. He’s a strong personality, he’s demanding.
“But ever since you started playing, you’ve been just as demanding of yourself. In a way, it’ll almost seem like a perfect match.
“He wants to see your very best, each and every day on the pitch. And all you’ll want to give is your best. Whether in training, or in a match.”
So, the question remains! Should Manchester United make a move for this ageing Dutchman?
First and foremost, even at the ripe old age of 33, Arjen Robben, by all means, is one of Bayern Munich’s best offensive assets at the moment.
He finished last season on a very good note, notching up an impressive 13 goals whilst providing 12 assists. He also managed to provide an assist in their DFB Cup first round game against Chemnitzer FC.
There’s no doubt that Arjen Robben is still one of Bundesliga’s best forwards, and the fact that the Dutchman has an exposure of previously playing in the Premier League, make him a very attractive target for the Red Devils.
At Bayern, his temperament has improved a lot, which is combined with his speedy dribbles, dangerous crosses and of course, the deadly, curling signature finish to the top corner. He has managed a staggering record in the German top flight with 90 goals and 55 assists in 168 games.
He was also the third most influential Bayern player, per Squawka. Having created 49 chances(2nd best), scoring 13 goals(2nd) clearly backs that statement up. But goals and assists are not the only things he’s good at.
Arjen Robben is largely known for his shooting abilities, which include the long distance curlers.
From the above diagram(from Squawka), we can easily notice the shooting prowess of the Dutch winger. Most of his shots come from the left-hand side, largely the left footed curlers and that might be a great asset for Manchester United. Considering the lack of penetration in the defensive area these days, the intrusive yet clinical long range efforts will often cause troubles for the opposition.
In Manchester United, Robben will definitely have lesser freedom compared to what he usually does in the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich. The wing focus isn’t as prominent with Man United as it is with Bayern Munich under both Carlo Ancelotti or Pep Guardiola. Therefore, questions might arise regarding his ability to thrive even without the wing focus in the Premier League. However, regardless of what problems he might face on the English soil, Arjen Robben is still widely regarded as one of the best wingers of world football right now, and in truth, it will be no less than a miracle to see him donning the Red Devils kit inside the Old Trafford.
