As reported by Manchester Evening News, Inter Milan sporting director Beppe Marotta has confirmed that Manchester United target Mauro Icardi doesn’t have a future at the club, along with midfielder Radja Nainggolan.
“Both players know full well they are not part of our plans. That doesn’t mean we doubt their talent or capabilities, as I consider them to be two excellent players. Talent can win you games, but the squad wins you the league, which is the main objective we are setting out for. They are not part of our project, with all due respect.”, Marotta told Sky Sports Italia.
Icardi is one of the world’s deadliest attackers
A former member of the Barcelona youth team, Icardi has been one of the most consistent strikers in Italy ever since his breakout at Sampdoria during the 2012/13 campaign. The Argentine has since scored 121 goals in just 219 matches in the Italian top flight.
Since his move to Inter back in 2013, he has plundered an impressive 124 goals in 219 matches across all competitions for the Nerazzurri. Additionally, Icardi has been able to score over 15 league goals in four of his last five seasons, which is a stellar record even for a top class striker.
Where will Icardi fit in at Manchester United?
Icardi will undoubtedly be a massive coup for Manchester United, especially considering Romelu Lukaku’s potential switch to Serie A. The Argentine, thus, could be a direct replacement for the ex-Chelsea star, who endured a disastrous 2018/19 campaign at Old Trafford.
Furthermore, the Inter Milan star can be slotted alongside Marcus Rashford in Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer’s preferred 4-3-1-2 formation. His lethal finishing and intelligent movements would combine well with Rashford’s pace and dynamism in the final third, thus adding another dimension to the United attack.
Icardi’s vast experience in top-flight football could also help him quickly integrate to the fast-paced nature of the Premier League – making him an ideal target for the Red Devils.
But, Icardi’s off the pitch antics could create a conflict
From a sporting perspective, Icardi will be a fantastic addition to the Manchester United side next season. But, the Argentine is notorious for his off-field issues that have plagued the majority of his career. He doesn’t share a pleasant relationship with Lionel Messi and other Argentine superstars due to his relationship with Wanda Nara, the ex-wife of his former teammate and good friend Maxi Lopez.
Furthermore, the 26-year-old was notably fined by Inter for returning late from winter break earlier this year while his wife cum agent Wanda Nara is infamous for publicising her thoughts about Icardi’s employers. In fact, the Serie A club had even asked the striker to change his agent.
And this could create massive unrest in the dressing room, which could be detrimental to a Manchester United side that are keen to rebuild themselves by revolving their team around young players. Hence, the Red Devils should turn their attention to a more calm and composed attacker, who can provide leadership qualities to the table.
