The Perfect Solution to Erik ten Hag's Midfield Woes? Sofyan Amrabat’s Move to Manchester United Sparks Excitement!

Manchester United's midfield struggles have been one of the notable narratives this season. They were outplayed by Wolves and Tottenham while also dealing with the injury of Mason Mount. Additionally, Casemiro's performance has come under scrutiny, necessitating a swift resolution. A potential solution may come in the form of Sofyan Amrabat, the talented midfielder from Fiorentina. Having showcased his skills at the World Cup, Amrabat shares a connection with Erik ten Hag from their previous stint at Utrecht. Furthermore, there have been persistent rumors linking him with a move to United throughout the summer.

"They have a specific purpose in mind when looking to acquire Sofyan Amrabat," stated Gary Neville in our conversation. "His ability to distribute and receive the football is what sets him apart. Amrabat's skill as a passer and his potential partnership with Casemiro make him a valuable addition to the team."

Undoubtedly, Casemiro requires assistance. The calls to reinstate Scott McTominay as a starting player demonstrate that Amrabat does not need to embody the qualities of both Roy Keane and Bobby Charlton to have a significant impact. United urgently requires a strong presence in that position.

The making of Amrabat

Rediscovering his potential during his loan spell at Hellas Verona proved pivotal for Amrabat, now 27. Previously a part of a three-man defence at Club Brugge, he transformed into the player that Ten Hag and others had once recognized during his teenage years. In those days, his head was not shaved, and his physique was not as imposing as it appeared during his exceptional performances at the World Cup in Qatar, where he covered more ground than any other player.

According to Robin Pronk, who previously coached Amrabat's older brother Nordin at Ajax and is now in charge of FC Utrecht's academy, the Sofyan of 10 to 12 years ago was vastly different from the Sofyan we see today. This difference extends beyond age and experience, encompassing his football knowledge and understanding of what it means to be a professional. Even at the age of 15 or 16, Sofyan already saw himself as a top player, but little did he know that this was only the beginning. Pronk had the privilege of witnessing the initial stages of Sofyan's transformation.

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Pronk recalls Amrabat's time at FC Utrecht's youth team, highlighting his dedication to improving by adopting a professional mindset. This involved consistent hard work, such as daily preparations before training, following individual programs after training, and putting in efforts on both the field and in the gym.

At a young age, Amrabat had attracted a lot of attention. Initially playing for the Netherlands U15 national team, he eventually opted to represent Morocco, leading to talks with Ruud Gullit and Dick Advocaat. Pronk recalls, "I remember them trying to persuade him to choose the Netherlands."

Despite turning down those offers, there was one Dutchman who managed to make an impact on Amrabat back then. "Erik ten Hag provided him with significant support and guidance. In Erik's coaching philosophy, the academy held great importance, and he was the one who promoted Amrabat to the first team."

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Erik ten Hag, the coach of FC Utrecht, gave instructions to Amrabat in 2016. Pronk acknowledges that "the major success came for him in Italy," but it was during those two seasons under Ten Hag that he transitioned from a promising talent to a seasoned professional, propelling him towards a transfer to Feyenoord. "He truly flourished within the Eredivisie."

What type of player was the young Amrabat? "His current performance showcases him as a tremendously strong midfield player. We had conversations with him about his development, as we recognized that he possessed the abilities to excel as a versatile player who can contribute both defensively and offensively. His physical strength was also notable."

Pronk also dedicated effort to enhancing other aspects of Amrabat's game. With experience coaching Europe's top young talents, including Christian Eriksen during his time at Ajax, he understood the importance of refining Amrabat's skillset. Together, they extensively analyzed the techniques and strategies employed by the most exceptional midfielders in the game.

I presented him with numerous videos, attempting to convey the necessary aspects and qualities exhibited by top midfield players at the highest level. The key is to master specific skills that make clubs and coaches value your presence. Without these skills, one cannot reach the top level.

We analyzed renowned midfielders on the international stage, such as Xabi Alonso and Luka Modric. It wasn't to suggest that he matched their level, considering his age of 18 or 19 at the time. Rather, it served as a means for him to compare himself with these players and understand the level of excellence required.

A difference maker at United?

At the 2022 World Cup, Amrabat encountered Modric on two occasions. By then, he had honed his ball manipulation skills to perfection. His Fiorentina squad, last season's second top Serie A possession ranking, trailed only Napoli. Amrabat's performance was exceptional, as he secured a spot among the top 10 players for completed passes in the opposition half per 90 minutes.

Adding that aspect to his game, that blend of passing and strength, has required time. "If you compare his technical skill with that of Eriksen, it is like comparing night and day," states Pronk. "However, both are indispensable in a team. The fusion of these two players forms a formidable team."

United currently lacks this quality, which is what Erik and other coaches are seeking. Given the physical nature of the Premier League, a great deal of power and intensity is required. Pronk believes that Sofyan Amrabat can provide that for the team.

Erik requires a midfielder with power, capable of making box-to-box runs. In the Netherlands, we refer to this as winning the second ball. It is crucial to have someone who can regain possession and counter-press after losing the ball. These are the unique abilities that Sofyan possesses.

For Amrabat, reuniting with Ten Hag would mark a complete cycle in his career. As for Pronk, it would serve as an additional source of pride. "I enjoy collaborating with young athletes, contributing in some way to their growth. These are the moments that endure in your memory for years to come."

For United, it could be the solution to their midfield problem.