Many would have believed Marouane Fellaini's time at Manchester United was coming to an end following reports linking him with a move to Turkish side Galatasaray, along with the arrival of Nemanja Matic at Old Trafford. However, the Belgian is set to play a key role during the new season under Jose Mourinho, who views him as an important player.
Mourinho told the Independent: “It's easier for Galatasaray to get me than Marouane, If they need a manager, they have a chance, but Marouane? Forget it. He is too important to me.”
The 29-year-old made 47 appearances for United last season, playing a key role in the club's capture of the EFL Cup and Europa League as he netted crucial goals in the semi-final stages of both competitions. Despite some moments of madness, including his red card in the Manchester derby for a headbutt on Sergio Aguero, he enjoyed his best season to date in a Red jersey.
There will be further competition during the new campaign for a starting spot in United's midfield from Matic and Andreas Pereira, who has impressed during pre-season following his stint on loan at La Liga side Granada. Although, Fellaini brings something totally different to the Red's in the middle of the park and his vast top-flight and European experience stands him in good stead as Champions League football returns to the Theatre of Dreams.
His aerial ability and physical style of play makes him a nightmare for opposing players to handle, with no other player in the Premier League last season winning more aerial duels than him (94) which was at least 14 more than any other midfielder. The Belgian international also possesses exquisite chest control, which allows United to use him as a long ball outlet during tight games, of which there were many at Old Trafford last season.
United have just two games left before the 2017/18 Premier League season starts, with a friendly against Sampdoria in Dublin and a meeting with Real Madrid in the European Super Cup. These games could be vital for players who are battling for a starting spot, especially in the Red's midfield.
Mourinho is likely to continue with a three-man midfield containing Paul Pogba and Ander Herrera, the third spot still looks up for grabs as new signing Matic looks to build his fitness, while Pereira is still learning the ropes as a central midfielder, allowing Fellaini the chance to start against West Ham at Old Trafford on the 13th August.
