Marouane Fellaini has chirped up after his weekend winner against Arsenal. After months of running of the wrong variety — down his contract, rather than on the pitch, the Belgian returned to the reckoning with a deflected stoppage time header, which was followed by a beating of the crest and a vociferous celebration in the corner of the Stretford End.
Post-match, both Mourinho and Fellaini spoke of a seemingly imminent conclusion to his contractual saga. The tide has turned once again, and in stunning, mercenary fashion.
“Now I am in a strong position, especially since Mourinho has stated that he wants to keep me,” Fellaini said, as per Sky Sports. “Afterwards I became important for the team. And a good player costs at least 50 million euros. The club knows that they went wrong there”, boasted the Belgian- who appears hellbent on believing he holds all the cards here.
It beggars belief that Fellaini is seemingly holding United to ransom, especially as he has recently turned 30. The emergence of Scott McTominay and the likely acquisition of at least one central midfielder, with Michael Carrick soon to be hanging up his boots, has hardly seen United fans scream from the rooftops that Fellaini must be retained.
There is no doubt Fellaini has his moments where he can be a real handful, his latest contribution against a team Troy Deeney goaded as lacking cojones epitomised that. Likewise, it is undisputable that he could remain a valuable squad member, but to justify an improved contract?
A Mourinho favourite he may be, but these latest comments are a step too far.
He has a unique style, but he is certainly replaceable, contrary to what he wants us to believe.
It might now be the stuff of pipedream, but there was once a time players were genuinely on cloud nine to play for United, not having the audacity to eek as much cheddar out of the club as they could try.
Fellaini ought to take a step back and appreciate the fact he has the United badge on his shirt.
If money means more, he will enjoy the Far East or the States.
