Man United Set To Lose Their Most Effective Centre Forward

The Belgian’s agent has suggested that his controversial client is keen to leave Manchester in the midst of a transitional period at the club. Roma has been noted as a possible destination for Fellaini, whose adaptability has been invaluable to Louis Van Gaal, but has also cursed him to the role of a ‘bit-part’ player in the Dutchman’s squad.

Fellaini has been in and out of the Red Devils team this term, used as an orthodox midfielder on occasions before starting as a target man and the focal point of the United attack. A first-team spot has never been guaranteed though, and his representative Luciano D’Onofrio has voiced that these frustration have made the former Everton man looking for a move to the Italian capital.

Fellaini was recently in attendance for the clash between Roma and Napoli:

“So far I’ve had no contact with Roma for him. Would that move be acceptable? Yes, Roma is a possibility to consider.”

Agent, Luciano D’Onofrio 

Fellaini has been a magnet to criticism since moving from Everton to Manchester United and his tall stature has been the prominent lightening rod for the majority of Van Gaal’s reign. The physical Belgian epitomised the ill-fated reign of David Moyes at Old Trafford, and given the erratic nature of his positions and performances, Fellaini has never been a hugely popular figure with the club’s supporters – despite many critics hailing him as Manchester United’s most effective centre forward.

Source: Getty Images
Source: Getty Images

Allowing Fellaini to leave United without a fight would be a considerable oversight – there’s no denying he’s a useful option to have in the squad. When deployed as a split striker Fellaini consistently wreaks havoc within opposition defences with his imposing frame, brute strength and ability to bring balls down on his chest. He’s been Manchester United’s most effective striker over the past two seasons, more than capable of grabbing a goal.

The Belgian’s appetite for big games in an invaluable attribute – contributing to every aspect United’s team, Fellaini is also adept at making a defensive contribution:

Is he a Jose Mourinho-type player though? Probably not.

It’s understandable that Fellaini himself may wish for a new challenge, especially if Roma can offer guaranteed first-team football and provide the support Fellaini has lacked at Old Trafford.

Whether Van Gaal clings onto his job or the suspected successor takes over United next season, there is inevitably set to be a summer of talent investment. Despite being an effective centre forward, Fellaini will never be hailed for ‘playing the United way’ and has always been treading water until Old Trafford welcomed his more-glamourous replacement.