Manchester United have told out-of-favour midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger he’s free to leave the club in January, according to the Daily Mail.
The report claims five Major League Soccer clubs want to secure Schweinsteiger’s services in the January transfer window, though the former Germany captain is not giving up hope of changing Jose Mourinho’s mind.
The 32-year-old veteran, who reportedly met with Chicago Fire manager Veljko Paunovic in Hale last week, is thought to be open to the possibility of moving to the United States, but playing for Manchester United remains his priority.
The former Bayern Munich player recently confirmed his desire to play for United again, saying he’ll wait for his chance at Old Trafford.
“I’m trying to keep myself fit for the situation in which I am needed,” Schweinsteiger said.
“Hopefully I will be given a chance. I look forward to training every day, and being able to train with the team. I don’t know if I will get a chance, but I hope so.
“I still feel fit at 32 and certainly want to play more years at the top level and of course I want to win things.
“We won the FA Cup last year and that was also one of my aims. Of course it would be great to play for United in the Premier League and perhaps win it. If I am needed, I will give everything – I am ready.
The German also admitted he’s frustrated with his role at the club, but said he’s not one to sulk.
“I’m not one to think of burying my head in the sand – I’ve always been a positive person and still am now,” he added.
“My rhythm is good – of course it’s different when you play each weekend compared with when you are only training – but I enjoy my football.”
Schweinsteiger resumed training with United’s first team at the end of last month, which prompted talk of the midfielder forcing his way into Mourinho’s plans.
However, the newspaper claims Schweinsteiger is not part of the Portuguese manager’s plans and his return to training is a way to boost his fitness levels ahead of his expected departure in January.
Schweinsteiger is saying all the right things and is showing his positive attitude, but it appears as though nothing can change Mourinho’s opinion on the matter.
His departure looks inevitable and it seems like he’s already played his last game for the Red Devils.
