According to BleacherReport, as cited by Sport Bible, Tottenham Hotspur are lining up a move for Manchester United’s Nemanja Matic. It is believed that Jose Mourinho is keen on reuniting with the midfielder, having worked together during their time at Old Trafford. In this article, however, we will discuss why Spurs should refrain from signing Matic next in the upcoming January transfer window.
Matic’s lack of form in the past 12 months
Matic’s decline has been rather evident in the past 12 months. The Serbian, who was initially known for his competence in midfield, has often appeared tentative. Especially when dealing with high pressing opposition, he has lacked the mobility and at times, seems physically weak.
As a result, Matic has often been dribbled past quite easily. Moreover, his passing has also lacked precision, with the midfielder often being targeted as the weak spot in Manchester United’s build-up play. He is now prone to losing possession in tight areas, allowing the opposition to create quick turnovers in the middle of the park.
Matic’s complacency, therefore, would only prove to be detrimental for a Tottenham Hotspur side, who are in desperate need of some solidity in their midfield unit.
He will provide no prospect for the future
At the age of 31, Matic is already in the final phase of his career, which is perhaps the reason why he has struggled to maintain his fitness and form in recent years. In fact, the Serbian international is set to turn 32 before the start of next season, meaning he cannot be considered as a long-term option for Tottenham Hotspur.
And this doesn’t bode well for the club, even though Matic’s vast experience at the highest level of football could be slightly helpful for the team. Over the years, Mauricio Pochettino has built a solid framework of the Spurs side that relies on the services of young players rather than ageing individuals.
Matic’s addition to Spurs, in that regard, would only create an obstacle for the young guns like Harry Winks and Oliver Skipp from earning a more prominent role in the starting eleven.
The curious case of Eric Dier
Eric Dier has gained a lot of recognition following the arrival of Mourinho. Pochettino often overlooked the English international due to his inability to distribute possession.
Under Mourinho, however, Dier’s defensive prowess, coupled with his physical traits and aggression, has helped provide more solidity to the Spurs midfield. And we believe that the Portuguese mastermind should persist with this holding midfielder, who can turn out to be an ideal component in his preferred 4-2-3-1 setup.
