Michael Carrick’s Manchester United were linked with a low-cost deal for Wilfred Ndidi during the January transfer window but decided against the move.
Manchester United appear to be in a strong position under Michael Carrick after securing three consecutive victories against Manchester City, Arsenal and Fulham.
Those results have firmly put the Reds back in the top-four conversation, helped by the advantage of playing just once a week due to their absence from European competition.
Despite the positive momentum, squad depth remains a key concern heading into the final stretch of the season, particularly in midfield.
With Bruno Fernandes now back in his preferred No.10 role, Carrick is left with only three senior options to operate in the double pivot: Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo.
What Carrick said about Ndidi
United were linked with ex-Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi during the January window but, in the end, they decided against signing him.
Ben Jacobs has explained that Michael Carrick’s response to the potential signing of Ndidi was to explain how he wanted to reintegrate Mainoo into the team.
“Nidid was open to joining Man United, and the club explored an option for a short-term deal in January,” Jacobs told the United Stand. “Man United then held talks with Michael Carrick, who reintegrated Kobbie Mainoo, and the club decided not to do a midfield signing now and wait until the summer.
“Carrick’s point was that he respects Ndidi, but he was always going to reintegrate Kobbie Mainoo, which has happened. Even though Casmeiro is leaving at the end of the season, this is not about phasing him out.
“So Carrick’s system, now changed to a back four, has performing midfielders, and he has the ability to move Bruno Fernandes further forward.”
Ndidi was not the right signing
Even though United could regret missing out on a midfield signing in January, Ndidi was not the right signing at Old Trafford.
There are only 14 remaining games this season and Ndidi would not be any use to the team beyond that point. He is not at the level required, even for a squad role at United.
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Should any injuries occur, United can deal with through different ways. Ayden Heaven has played in midfield before in his academy days, Bruno Fernandes also proved that he can play in the deeper role.
The club also recalled Jack Moorhouse from loan and while he is set to play for the Under-21s, the midfielder could also be an option if needed.
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