KEY POINTS

  • Cavani is not returning for Manchester United after this season
  • Cavani may head to South America, possibly joining the Boca Juniors
  • Manchester United needs to skim the market for strikers with Anthony Martial struggling

Manchester United has been finding ways to stay competitive although it is coming from an unusual player in Edinson Cavani.

The 34-year-old Uruguayan was seen only as a short-term fix, but his importance to the team rose with Anthony Martial failing to deliver the offensive spark.

Despite the ongoing row about the European Super League, the Red Devils need to buckle down to work.

The reality of it all is that they need to address their offensive needs, and Edinson Cavani is not it. He may do for the rest of the season, but things will be different moving forward.

A reason for this is that Cavani has informed the Red Devils that he is not returning after this season, Amarilla reported.

While it hardly comes as a surprise, it is a cause for alarm for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer who may be forced to skim the market for players who can fill the impending void.

There is no telling what the future holds for Cavani although there are reports that he may move back to South America. The Boca Juniors loom as his next likely destination.

For Manchester United, this is an imminent development. They were expected to go after a new striker in the offseason with Martial struggling and unable to find the back of the net.

In related news, Teden Mengi returned to Old Trafford following a loan spell from Derby County.

The 18-year-old will undergo treatment for a hamstring injury he sustained while training on loan.

Mengi began the recovery process with the Rams’ medical staff over the weekend. He will now continue his rehab at the Aon Training Complex per the Manchester United website.

The injury of Mengi hindered him to sport his best foot. He started in five of the seven games and was lauded for his performance before being sidelined.

Derby manager Wayne Rooney confirmed the news in a press conference held on Monday.

Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani scored against Tottenham
Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani scored against Tottenham POOL / Adrian DENNIS

"Teden will miss the rest of the season and go back to Manchester from today,” Rooney stated. "He has been fantastic for us and we've seen him grow with each game."

Rooney affirmed that he would stay in touch with Manchester United and Mengi about next season.

The former Red Devil added that the injury is not too serious, but he doubts if the 18-year-old can recover in time and play this season.