Despite barely featuring for Manchester United this season, playmaker Henrikh Mkhitaryan has stated that it is a huge privilege for him to play under Jose Mourinho. The 27 year old Armenia international joined the Red Devils in a £26m deal in the summer, amidst high and lofty expectations he would deliver on the biggest stage of all. Mkhi has struggled to get playing time due to an array of fitness, form and confidence issues, but has spoken out in defence of his manager, who he terms as one of the best tacticians around. There has been talk of a rift between the pair, as the attacking midfielder has only managed 133 minutes of action in all competitions since joining the club.
Jose Mourinho has publicly claimed that the player still needs to adapt, though his quality is not in doubt. Last Friday, he stirred a comeback for his country, as they came from two goals down to defeat Montenegro 3-2, a game in which Mkhitaryan displayed his undisputed class. Speaking to The Football Federation of Armenia, the former Shakhtar Donetsk forward said, “I know I can succeed at Manchester United and I want to show everyone that I deserve to be a key player in this team and this league,” “Today I don’t have enough playing time, so I have to do my best so the coaching staff give me the chance to play.”“Regarding Jose Mourinho, I hope I can learn a lot from him – he is a coach with a fantastic record.” he added.
Mkhitaryan joined United after snubbing a host of top European clubs. Though it is still early in his Old Trafford career, there has been talk of a loan move back to Borussia Dortmund. The Armenia captain is a classy attacking midfielder, who can also play as a striker. He exudes confidence, poise and class on the ball. He has a contract at Old Trafford till the summer of 2020, with the option of a further year. In the derby against bitter rivals, Manchester City, back in September, he had a very terrible game, where he struggled with the pace and intensity of the English game. He was hauled off at halftime in that game, with Mourinho insisting he has to do more to become a regular in the first team.
Despite his lack of game time, Mkhi has remained the consulate professional, and is clearly working hard to fight for his place in the team.
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