KEY POINTS

  • Edinson Cavani scored a goal in his Manchester United return against Newcastle United
  • Cavani is still not 100% percent fit to play
  • Ralf Rangnick wants the veteran striker to stay healthy until the end of the season

A couple of issues have been hindering Manchester United from reaching their best form this season.

Despite making major changes in the club, Manchester United still can’t find its rhythm.

It is becoming more and more apparent that the appointing of German tactician Ralf Rangnick as the interim manager is not getting the job done.

Moreso, problems with injuries also add to the team’s woes.

Veteran striker Edinson Cavani, who had just recovered from a tendon injury that saw him being sidelined for more than a month, pulled off a remarkable return by scoring the Red Devils’ only goal in the recent 1-1 draw against Newcastle United.

However, things have not been as good as it appears to be as Cavani could still be dealing with some unknown discomfort even to this day, according to Manchester Evening News.

According to the report, the Red Devils are “still encountering issues” with Cavani’s availability as it has been learned that he had asked not to start against Newcastle.

Rangnick confirmed the news after the game, divulging that Cavani was already not feeling comfortable when he spoke with him days leading to the Newcastle match.

"Actually, in the last two days, I was considering to play him from the start," Rangnick said. "I spoke with him yesterday and the day before yesterday and he didn’t feel comfortable playing from the beginning because he didn’t know how fit he really was."

"Today, being 1-0 down at half-time, it was clear to me we needed to take more risks and to change something. That’s why we decided to bring him and Jadon [Sancho] on at half-time."

Edinson Cavani
Edinson Cavani of Manchester United warming up during the UEFA Champions League group F match between Atalanta and Manchester United at Stadio di Bergamo on November 2, 2021 in Bergamo, Italy. Photo by Marcio Machado/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

Another issue that Manchester United needs to address regarding Cavani is his future with the club.

The Uruguayan’s current deal with the club is set to expire at the end of the season.

He is expected to make a return to South America ahead of the winter World Cup in Qatar, having heavily linked to a move to his boyhood club Boca Juniors.

Previous reports also claimed that Cavani is also considering a switch to Spanish football with Barcelona being his favorite destination.

Cavani and Raphael Varane are two of Manchester United veterans who have struggled to stay fit this season.

Aware of the pair’s quality, Rangnick had previously admitted that they have to ensure both “top” players will be in good condition until the end of the season.