Manchester United is weighing up the possibility of re-signing Alvaro Fernandez, the young left-back currently showcasing his talents at Benfica. The Spanish defender, who originally moved to the Portuguese club for £5 million, possesses a buy-back clause allowing United to bring him back to Old Trafford. This decision is becoming pressing due to the increasing interest from La Liga rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Fernandez, now 21, has made significant strides at Benfica since permanently transferring from Manchester United, where he never made a first-team appearance. After spending last season on loan at the Estadio da Luz, he has started all but two of the club's matches this season, marking himself as the first-choice left-back under manager Roger Schmidt.
The situation at United's backline has been tumultuous this season. With injuries plaguing Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, manager Erik ten Hag has struggled for depth at full-back positions. Shaw's long-term absence has forced Ten Hag to rely heavily on Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot, leading to questions about the adequacy of their options if more injuries were to occur.
During the summer transfer window, United made the controversial decision to sell Fernandez to Benfica. Record keeping reveals he was the first permanent transfer of the Ineos era, aimed at improving the club's performance as sellers. Yet, the current squad’s struggle with injuries highlights the potential oversight of letting him go, especially as the club now faces the prospect of competing with major clubs for his services again.
Fernandez began his career at Real Madrid's youth ranks before making the switch to United, where he participated primarily with the U23 squad. His inability to secure a spot on the first team led to loan spells at Preston North End and Granada before finally establishing himself at Benfica. This upward progression has not gone unnoticed, with both Real Madrid and Barcelona reportedly monitoring his performances closely, heightening the stakes for United as they deliberate on activating the buy-back clause.
Reports suggest Manchester United officials have started to ponder the feasibility of recalling Fernandez as they assess their options for bolstering their squad. The left-back position has been problematic; Shaw frequently battles injuries, leaving the team vulnerable and reliant on inexperienced options. Given Fernandez’s current form and development, many fans think it might be wise for the club to reunite with their former player.
Despite the challenges faced by Ten Hag this season, the potential return of Fernandez could offer not just immediate benefits for squad depth but also long-term advantages considering the player’s age and growth potential. If activated, this move would mark another chapter of regrets turned to opportunities for Manchester United to correct past decisions.
The negotiations around Fernandez’s future are bound to bring pressure on United’s management, especially with the awareness of fierce competition from some of Europe’s biggest clubs. Fans are left to wonder whether the club can effectively navigate their current challenges and secure their former talent, all the meanwhile hoping solution is found and depth is rebuilt.
