Manchester United continued their inconsistent performance with a defeat against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, prompting scrutiny of manager Erik ten Hag’s unconventional player selections. The team’s midfield imbalance notably hindered their chances in the second half, leading the Dutch manager to contemplate various aspects for the future. This has drawn attention to several players whose contracts expire next summer.
Recent reports indicate that Victor Lindelof’s contract will be extended by a year by the club. However, the unexpected standout of the season has been Jonny Evans, who, despite being 35 years old, has displayed exceptional skills. He notably shone in the comeback win against Aston Villa, standing out in a season marred by defensive errors. While the statuses of Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire remain uncertain, the club is reportedly eyeing the recruitment of another high-quality center-back in the upcoming transfer window.
Considering Evans’ experience and performance, renewing his contract seems sensible, especially as a dependable backup option. Although he signed a one-year deal last summer, reports suggest that Ten Hag is inclined to propose offering the veteran defender another one-year contract.
In a change from previous transfer decisions, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, soon to become the club’s major stakeholder via INEOS, will have the ultimate say in transfer matters. The potential extension of Evans’ contract is anticipated to test Ten Hag’s influence at the club.
Retaining Evans appears prudent due to his professionalism, readiness for a backup role, and lack of disruptions. Amid Manchester United’s on-field challenges, securing Evans’ experience and reliability could contribute to a more stable defense in the forthcoming seasons.
