Nemanja Matic advises Joao Neves to snub Man United interest | OneFootball

Manchester United’s former midfielder general, Nemanja Matic, has warned Benfica’s Joao Neves against moving to his former club right now.

The Red Devils have had major problems all over the pitch this season, but the midfield has been a particular area of concern.

No player operating in the centre of the park has covered themselves with much glory, with the exception of the wonderful Kobbie Mainoo.

However, even he has struggled for consistency at times, largely down to being only 18 years old. Nonetheless, he has reportedly done enough to be considered the future face of the club according to the new owners, INEOS.

With the likely departure of Casemiro, Christian Eriksen and Sofyan Amrabat this summer, United will obviously need a replacement or two. One name that has been regularly linked is that of Benfica’s teenage sensation – Joao Neves.

Reports in April have suggested that United are aiming to take advantage of Benfica’s need to sell due to financial pressures. Old Trafford officials rate Neves so highly they are willing to break their club record transfer fee to snag the skilled midfielder.

However, Matic does not believe that a move to Old Trafford right now would be the best decision for the Portugal international.

Speaking to O Jogo, the Serbian who played 189 times for the Red Devils claimed, “I think it’s too early for him to take that step of leaving”.

“If I were him, I would stay at Benfica for a few more years to play in the Champions League and to mature more. I’m sure his time will come and, therefore, he doesn’t need to rush”.

“João is already at a big club at this point. I’m sure his future at Benfica will be very good. I think it’s too early to leave, but of course, in the end, it’s always his decision”.

It is hard to refute the Serbian’s words as Benfica are title contenders every season and are preparing for a Europa League quarter final today away to Marseilles, while United players have been sat at home since December during European nights.

Moreover, the youngster is only 19 years old, and so has plenty of time to make his move to a bigger stage.

On the other hand though, the supremely talented youngster likely believes he is good enough to be playing on the biggest stage and, despite United’s wretched form of late, Old Trafford can still provide such a platform for greatness.

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