Nemanja Matic, at 36, has become a pivotal figure in Lyon’s midfield since his arrival last January. His vast experience and game management skills are expected to be crucial in Lyon’s campaign, especially in the context of Manchester United’s ongoing search for a long-term defensive midfielder since his departure.
Matic’s career has been marked by significant achievements, including two Premier League titles and a League Cup during his time at Chelsea. Although his stint at Manchester United did not yield trophies, his influence was undeniable. Under Jose Mourinho, Matic became an integral part of the team, contributing to a second-place finish in the 2017/18 Premier League season.
Jose Mourinho said: “I didn’t disturb him, I didn’t disturb Chelsea. It looked like something special was happening because his agent told me we can have him, that we just had to pay. It depends on what is happening or what was happening behind doors and we don’t know. The only thing I know is that I brought him to Stamford Bridge because I thought he was a player with special qualities and since I left I always thought he could be a perfect player for us. We have him and we are very happy because he is a player that our team needs.”
Mourinho’s decision to bring Matic to Manchester United was met with approval, as the midfielder quickly established himself as a key player. His debut performance, a 4-0 victory, even prompted former United player Phil Neville to commend Chelsea for the transfer. Matic’s tenure at United ended in 2022 when he reunited with Mourinho at Roma, where he played a pivotal role until his move to Lyon.
At Lyon, Matic has been a stabilizing force amid challenging times. Alongside experienced players like Alexandre Lacazette and Corentin Tolisson, he has helped foster the development of young talents such as Rayan Cherki and Georges Mikautadze. Lyon currently sits fifth in Ligue 1, vying for a spot in next season’s Champions League.
Manchester United, meanwhile, has faced a challenging season. The Europa League presents a viable opportunity for silverware and a potential route into the Champions League. Matic’s presence and experience could prove invaluable in these pursuits.
**
