There were a few concerns when Manchester United landed Edinson Cavani on a free transfer in October.
On one hand, it seemed like a mistake straight from 2014, chasing a big name, who may be past his best, as part of a panic move because other moves did not work out.
On the other hand, while all of the above misgivings were true, and add in a dodgy injury record, Cavani was exactly what this Manchester United team needed.
The Uruguayan is absolutely ruthless in front of goal. And he has a winner’s mentality.
When this team need a player to step up, he produces. He is a big game player, and he proved it in the Europa League semi-final win over Roma.
Just like in the recent win over Tottenham, United were trailing at half-time, and Cavani turned the game on it’s head.
This United team is a young side, which has struggled to get past big moments, faltering in semi-finals.
This was the first semi-final Cavani has played for United, he missed the Carabao Cup match against City in January through suspension. Predictably, he made the difference.
Cavani equalised at a crucial time, helping United settle, and turn the game around.
A perfect performance
Cavani’s performance was graded as a perfect 10.0 by WhoScored.com.
The Uruguayan scored two goals, provided two assists, and won a penalty too.
He was just outstanding, and played like he was 24 not 34. If only there was a way to de-age a player.
There is no two ways about it, United have to find a way to keep Cavani at Old Trafford.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano gave an update after the game, to say United are trying to do everything possible to convince Cavani to stay one more year.
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