Sofyan Amrabat with Fenerbahce (X)
Fenerbahce, coached by former United boss Jose Mourinho, have been drawn to host the Reds in the Europa League.
Moroccan midfielder Sofyan Amrabat has joined Fenerbahce on loan from Fiorentina with an option to buy, the clubs announced on Saturday.
The Istanbul club said they had an option to buy the 28-year-old, one of the stars of Morocco’s run to the last four at the 2022 World Cup.
Fiorentina on their web site said the deal involved an obligation to buy, while Fenerbahce announced the arrival of the Moroccan.
“Our club has reached an agreement in principle with the club and player relating to the temporary transfer of Sofyan Amrabat, who plays for ACF Fiorentina,” a statement from the Turkish Super Lig side read.
“Sofyan Amrabat will arrive in Istanbul today for health checks and further transfer talks.”
Amrabat has appeared twice in Europe this season for Fiorentina, but in the lesser Conference League. His last appearance was on Thursday when he played the whole match as the Viola finished extra time with eight men but advanced on penalties.
Amrabat spent last season on loan at Manchester United where he made 30 appearances. But, his unsuccesful spell left United faithful asking for more, and hence, relations soured.
Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte, on the other hand, has come in place of the Moroccon and the departing Scott McTominay at Old Trafford. The 23-year-old, who spent just one season with the French champions, joined the English giants for a reported initial 50 million euros (£42 million, $55 million), with a further 10 million euros in performance-related add-ons.
While Amrabat did not complete a return to Old Trafford this summer, he will face his former teammates in Europe this season.
In the 2024/25 Europa League draw, United have drawn Fenerbahce as one of their eight opponents in the competition’s new format.
United are set to travel to Turkey to face Fenerbahce in the competition, with the dates of the fixture set to be announced over the next 24 hours.
It means a reunion with Mourinho and Fred is also on the horizon.
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – AFP)
