Will Cavani debut for Man United in Champions League? Striker integral as Red Devils aim for win against PSG
Things haven't been exactly on the bright side for Manchester United. Two weeks ago, they were trolled, mocked and roasted for their abysmal 1-6 loss to Tottenham Hotspur. Their transfer window was fairly decent but their failure to sign Jadon Sancho was a bummer for most fans. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came under intense criticism for the team's failure to perform while Harry Maguire's poor run of form wasn't spared either.
They perhaps simmered things down after a comprehensive 4-1 win over Newcastle on Saturday, October 17, but it might not be enough. And now, they have a string of tough games starting with their Champions League group fixture against Paris Saint-Germain.
While they may have got the better of the French outfit last time around, the form factor for both sides is a stark contrast. Thomas Tuchel's side has won their last three games while United's result sheet for the last three games read WLW. Now, they face a fit-again Neymar and co in a clash that could play a key role in how they go further into the leagues they're playing in.
The good news comes in the form of Edison Cavani, their latest signing. The 33-year-old Uruguay international was seen training with the side with his quarantine now complete. While he may face stiff competition to make his way to the starting XI, Solskjaer might be tempted to put him on the field against his former side despite the fact he hasn't seen any sporting action since his signing. However, his tactical acumen and his spell with PSG makes him a prime contender to start in the playing XI.
With the French club, Cavani has scored over 200 goals in his 301 games for the side. He joined the outfit in 2013 for a fee estimated to be around €64 million ($75 million), making it the sixth largest transfer in history. In addition, he topped the Ligue 1 goal charts between 2016 and 2018 according to Goal and was also Ligue 1's Player of the Year. Should be play against his old team on Tuesday, October 20, it will be an odd feeling for Cavani who will be donning the Red Devils jersey.
Free-agent Cavani was signed on a one-year deal with an option to extend for a year more if needed. Cavani has not played any competitive football in seven months after being released by Paris Saint-Germain and will earn close to $15M a season with another $18M going in as agent's fees.
In his statement, he said: "Manchester United is one of the greatest clubs in the world, so it is a real honor to be here. I’ve worked really hard during the time off and I feel eager to compete and represent this incredible club. I have played in front of some of the most passionate supporters in football during my career and I know that it will be the same in Manchester. I cannot wait to experience the Old Trafford atmosphere when it is safe for the fans to return.
"I look forward to continuing to write my little story inside the book of football and I know that’s why my focus has to remain the same as always — work, work, work. I have had a conversation with the manager and this has increased my desire to wear this beautiful shirt." Cavani playing on Tuesday would be a massive boost for United fans. His reception to the side was warm on Twitter and he will be integral in the clash against his former side.
Kick-off is scheduled at 3 pm ET on Tuesday, October 20. Fans can watch the game on CBS All Access.