Why Manchester United must trigger Nemanja Matic’s contract extension

According to a report by Manchester Evening News, Nemanja Matic has indicated that he is open to spending more time at Old Trafford.

The midfielder’s current contract will expire at the end of the season but it does include the option to trigger a 12-month extension, the report adds. In the wake of injuries to Scott McTominay and Paul Pogba, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has been pressed for numbers in the midfield.

However, Matic has grabbed the opportunity with both hands even put in a spectacular display against Chelsea as the Red Devils romped to a 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge – which is, incidentally, the ground of his former club.

Despite being out-of-favour for a good majority of the season, the Serbian appears to have breathed a new lease life into his tenure with United.

A few months ago, the prospect of tying Matic down to fresh terms might have seemed unnecessary but after his recent displays, the United hierarchy would be wise to consider their stance on the midfielder’s future. He is easily one of the more experienced figures in the United dressing room, having spent a good number of years with rivals, Chelsea.

Adept at being the glue that connects the defence and the attack, it must be noted that Matic is quite a safe option for the club.

Fred has shown signs of improvement as well but Matic’s years of Premier League experience do account for a lot. However, the duo’s partnership in the middle of the park has blossomed in recent times and United bore the fruits in the game against Chelsea.

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Matic and Fred were in excellent tune with each other and dominated most of the game – despite coming up against Frank Lampard’s Chelsea.

Keeping Matic’s improved displays aside, he also deserves credit for the way he has turned things around at United this season. And his spirit should be rewarded with a 12-month extension at the very least. Hence, Manchester United must not think twice but triggering Matic’s contract extension at the earliest.