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Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes were hailed as the heroes who scripted Manchester United’s victory over Manchester City in the FA Cup final, and rightly so.
However, another Man United pair — Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane — played an equally important role in the Wembley triumph, helping the team keep out Erling Haaland and Phil Foden.
The trusty centre-back’s return to the starting line-up has certainly had a transformative impact, leaving fans wondering what could have been had they played together more often this season.
As such, going into the transfer window this summer, INEOS should do their best to bring in a new centre-back, who can instill the same level of confidence next season. Interestingly, they don’t even have to look too far to find the right man.
Jean-Clair Todibo, who plays for INEOS-owned Nice, has re-emerged as one of Ligue 1’s most reliable central defenders, playing a key role in the side’s unblemished defensive record. Nice conceded fewer goals than PSG in the league this term.
The 24-year-old star has long been on the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs, including United and Tottenham Hotspur. United were interested in the player last summer, and the north London side made a move in January. Speaking about their interest, he told the Telegraph:
“Honestly, I don’t want to talk about (my future) out of respect for the fans here and the club. But we had a little discussion, for sure.”
This was not the first time he crossed paths with United. Before moving to Toulouse in 2016, he had a trial in Manchester. “It was a good experience. I discovered a little bit what the professional world is like,” he recalled.
The Telegraph report adds that United “may call up” Todib again. Given his physical strength and technical ability in possession, it would be unwise not to explore the opportunity again.
Todibo also seems ready for a bigger challenge this summer, as he added: “My ambition is to play in the best competitions in the world and try to be the best version of me.”
While the INEOS link may help United land Todibo, it could also jeopardize their European football prospects.
According to the Telegraph, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has until Monday to convince UEFA that United and Nice should be allowed to compete in next season’s Europa League.
However, Peoples Person has carried a report which claims INEOS are confident it will not affect the FA Cup winners’ European hopes, as they only own a minority stake in the club.
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