Erik ten Hag blocks midfielder from leaving the club

Manchester United manager, Erik ten Hag, has put a halt on midfielder Hannibal Mejbri’s potential January loan departure from Old Trafford. This decision comes as the Red Devils await the return of key players Casemiro and Mason Mount.

The Tunisian international, Mejbri, had been eyeing a loan move but won’t be allowed to leave United until ten Hag feels assured about his midfield options. Mejbri took the significant step of withdrawing from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to address his future at the club.

Despite making nine appearances for Manchester United this season, Mejbri’s development has been a priority for ten Hag, who admires the 20-year-old’s tenacity.

The manager is keen on securing more playing time for Mejbri but is facing a shortage of midfield choices due to the current absences of Casemiro and Mount.

The return of Casemiro and Mount is crucial before ten Hag sanctions Mejbri’s departure. While Christian Eriksen recently made a comeback from a five-week absence, Sofyan Amrabat has been unavailable for the last two games under ten Hag’s management.

Hannibal Mejbri spent the previous season on loan at Birmingham, featuring in 38 appearances for the club.