Manchester United have made an announcement to confirm that ex-midfielder Sofyan Amrabat has joined Fenerbahce.
Amrabat, 28, spent last season on loan at United from Italian outfit Fiorentina, reuniting with his former boss at Dutch side Utrecht, Erik ten Hag. The Moroccan midfielder made 30 appearances and played a variety of roles as the Red Devils endured a nightmare season when it came to injuries, as well as slumping to eighth in the Premier League.
But following a run of solid performances towards the end of the campaign, including in the FA Cup final as United beat Manchester City 2-1, speculation that Amrabat would make his move permanent increased. However, Ten Hag opted against re-signing the 28-year-old, who’s instead been snapped up by Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho.
Amrabat has initially joined the Turkish giants on loan, with Fenerbahce paying Fiorentina €2m (£1.7m) for his services this season and a further €13m (£11m) to sign him on a permanent basis next summer. Mourinho took charge of Fenerbahce in June and his side, which also includes former United midfielder Fred, will welcome the Red Devils to Istanbul in the Europa League on October 24.
United posted an article on their website confirming the Morocco international’s move and at the end of the piece wished Amrabat well. “Everyone at the club would like to thank Sofyan for his contribution to the club last term, and wish him all the best for the future,” their message read.
Amrabat held a press conference after arriving in Turkey and also posted on Instagram: “I am proud to join this big and amazing sportclub with its rich of history and tradition. I cant wait to play in front of the loyal and passionate Fenerbahce supporters! I promise to honour the jersey by giving everything on the pitch.
“Thank you for the warm welcome, and I look forward to sharing many unforgettable moments together Inshallah. See you soon, Sofyan.”
He added in a farewell to Fiorentina fans: “It was an honour to wear this shirt and to represent the people of this beautiful club. Thank you all for your support over the years, I will keep you in my heart forever.”
United made one midfield signing in the summer transfer window, welcoming Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain for an initial £42.3million. The Red Devils could end up paying a further £8.4m in add-ons, with the 23-year-old Uruguayan being their top midfield target throughout the summer.
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