Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes was reportedly taken aback by one particular transfer move the club executed this summer.
The Red Devils had a bustling summer window, splashing out on talents such as Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs de Ligt, Joshua Zirkzee, and Noussair Mazraoui, while parting ways with Scott McTominay, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Mason Greenwood.
Yet, it was the sale of young midfielder Maxi Oyedele to Legia Warsaw that caught Fernandes off guard. Manchester-born Oyedele, who has Polish and Nigerian heritage, has been turning heads at Legia and unexpectedly earned a call-up to the Poland squad for their Nations League fixtures against Portugal and Croatia.
Legia’s manager Goncalo Feio, who shares Portuguese roots with Fernandes, inquired about Oyedele’s promise during the club’s negotiations. “After the match with Gornik I said that we were dealing with a player who would sooner or later end up in the Polish national team,” remarked Feio following Legia’s triumph over Real Betis in the Europa Conference League.
“I didn’t know that he would be called up to the national team two days later. The quality on the ball, the personality, the character to keep the ball, the choices, when to lead, play with one touch, change the centre.
“It is no coincidence that Bruno Fernandes, when we spoke to him, said he was shocked that United were letting him go, because he looked great in pre-season with Manchester.
“The level at which he plays is also related to the number of duels won in the central zone. His physical maturity, motor skills and ability to use his body are at a high level. Although I know that the fans and probably you, journalists, like what he does with the ball the most, Maxi gives us a very big physical presence in the midfield.
“This is an element that is quite important in today’s football. Oyedele’s form is also largely due to the other players around him, who trust him and allow him to show himself from such a good side. It’s our duty to keep him developing like this. Polish football can have a lot of joy from him.”
After leaving Old Trafford, Oyedele shared on Instagram: “My time at Manchester United has finally come to end. I want to say thank you to the only club I’ve ever known. Honoured to say I’ve been at the club for 12 years and had some unbelievable experiences with some amazing team-mates.
“Thank you to all the coaches, staff and the fans, I will never forget the memories I have made at this club. I wish everyone at Manchester United all the best as I leave ready to start the next chapter of my career. This club will always be my home and, once again, thank you.”