Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, seems to have reconsidered Hannibal Mejbri’s situation and is now open to letting go of the midfielder, despite his impressive early-season performance.
Hannibal has been highly regarded as a rising talent from the United youth system, where he has been a part of since his move from Monaco in 2017.
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In the initial matches of this season, the Tunisian international gained some valuable first-team experience, including scoring his debut Premier League goal in the 3-1 home loss to Brighton.
Despite a promising beginning, many loyal United fans anticipated this to be Hannibal’s breakthrough season, making it all the more surprising.
Even before the season started, there were indications that he might leave the club following a training ground altercation just before Ten Hag’s arrival, involving Alex Telles, who is now with Saudi outfit Al Nassr.
Following a loan period at Birmingham during Ten Hag’s first season, it appeared that the Dutch manager had considered Hannibal as surplus to requirements, likely aiming to sidestep any drama related to the midfielder’s reported clash with Telles.
Despite initial uncertainties, a series of impressive performances, including the Red Devils boss praising Hannibal’s “perfect” display against Burnley, changed the course.
However, the latest development indicates another reversal by Ten Hag, who is now open to sending Hannibal on another loan stint, this time to Spanish side Sevilla for the remainder of the current season.
The deal reportedly includes an option to buy, suggesting that United is not overly concerned about the prospect of losing Hannibal permanently. If Sevilla decides to secure Hannibal on a permanent deal in the summer, the Red Devils are expected to receive a substantial fee.
During the summer, the La Liga side closely monitored Hannibal’s situation, and he nearly made a move from Manchester to Spain at that time.
However, injuries to key United midfielders provided Hannibal with an opportunity to contend for a regular spot in the starting lineup.
Fast forward five months, and the scenario has shifted; now, Hannibal is eager for a departure. To underline his commitment, the 20-year-old opted not to join the Tunisia national team for the Africa Cup of Nations, aiming to gain clarity about his future at the club.
Hannibal wouldn’t be the first talent to transition from United to Sevilla on loan. Anthony Martial made a similar move in the middle of the 2021/22 season, and Hannibal’s training ground sparring partner, Telles, followed suit in the subsequent campaign.
