Jose Mourinho dismisses Mkhitaryan rift … but is he being honest?
Ex-Borussia Dortmund man Henrikh Mkhitaryan has had a rollercoaster season and a half at Manchester United.
Since joining Manchester United last summer, Mkhitaryan has struggled to cement a place in the starting XI, and has spent months at a time in Mourinho’s doghouse.
And after struggling to make an impact in the last four games he’s featured, he’s found himself once again left out of the matchday XI against Newcastle over the weekend.
It appears that our magical Armenian has lost his brilliance, and perhaps Mourinho is giving him another round of his special treatment.
Or perhaps, Mourinho is done with the attacking midfielder. Mkhitaryan has had ample time to prove himself, and now Jose may have finally made up his mind.
When asked about the possible rift before United’s match vs. Basel, Mourinho denied the reports.
"“Micki is not playing because we had lots of options for that match. I decided to play Marcus Rashford and Martial together,” said Jose. “For many weeks, the question was – why do they not play together? Now, the question is why is Micki not playing.”"
Mourinho denied that he left Micki out for other reasons… but this feels different.
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Mkhitaryan certainly has the capabilities to be a world class No. 10 for United. However, he seems unable to find that form consistently.
And if there’s one thing Mourinho loves its consistency.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see Mkhitaryan excluded from Wednesday’s XI to play Basel. He’s been horrible for the last month, and there are more worthy players on the team who deserve playing time.
And Mourinho rewards players who work hard — not the opposite.
“In this moment, we have Pogba, Marouane Fellaini, Ander Herrera, Nemanja Matic and Scott McTominay,” added the manager.
Micki is a fan favorite when he’s at his best. But when he’s having an off day it’s like United are playing with ten men at times.
“But when he’s having an off day it’s like United are playing with ten men at times.”
It’s a shame. He’s a talented player, but Mourinho only has so much patience.
Next: Champions League Match Preview: Basel vs. Manchester United (Predicted lineup)
The Armenian could get another opportunity to impress the Portuguese. But it could be his last. The Special One is trying to challenge for the title, and he needs 110% from every player.