Edinson Cavani had a man of the match performance against Roma in the first leg of the Europa League semifinals, where the Red Devils came from behind to win 6-2. The Uruguayan forward provided two goals and was instrumental in setting up two others as Manchester United took a huge lead looking ahead to leg 2.
While at times hampered by injuries Cavani’s time at Manchester United has been a success, with 12 goals in 33 games the three-time World Cup veteran has provided much needed experience and leadership in the ManU locker room.
With rumors piling up as to where Cavani’s future lies next season, one thing is for certain, Manchester United will do all they can to keep the Uruguayan despite claims that he may return to South America next season.
Manchester United working to keep Edinson Cavani past this season
Edinson Cavani of Manchester United heads the ball wide during the UEFA Europa League Quarter Final Second Leg match between Manchester United and Granada CF at Old Trafford (Getty)
After the match against Roma, Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was full of praise for his forward, “I’m delighted with him… You can see the difference in him when he’s worked on his fitness. He’s making up for lost time…”
“I understand it’s been very difficult for him (following injuries and the pandemic). I’ve promised him Old Trafford and Manchester is a different place with fans in it. He must try to get that feeling that Manchester is a good place to live. I’m doing my best. Hopefully, nights like this help him see himself here for another year.” Solskjaer told the Manchester United website.
As for Cavani, the forward has mentioned in various interviews that he will determine his future at season’s end, citing that his family is his main concern and whether they would like to stay in England in the long term.
One month ago, a rumor started that Boca Juniors of Argentina were interested in signing Cavani and that Juan Roman Riquelme, Boca’s General Manager of Soccer, spoke to him as Cavani wanted to be closer to his family.
Nonetheless with a World Cup looming, competition on the Uruguayan National Team at forward, and Cavani’s high salary demands, it has been stated he wants to make at least $10 million a year, making a move back to South America is nearly impossible and he will most likely stay in Europe.
