Many doubts have been voiced out against Manchester United's new recruit, Bastian Schweinsteiger. Many have suggested that Schweinsteiger is past his peak, and that the fee of around £14.5 million is exorbitant.
It is an inevitable accusation looking at his age but it not a fair one. In signing one of the most decorated footballers ever, Manchester United are buying a player that can help them win trophies rather than just achieving Champions League qualification.
He has not been signed for his potential nor is he 'one for the future'. This is a transfer based solely on what the German adds to United now, rather than what he could bring in the future. There is no thought of resale value or expanding the brand’s global.
United found to their detriment last season that without Michael Carrick their midfield lacks balance and structure. Schweinsteiger is a more aggressive form of Carrick. He will provide a protective barrier in front of United’s notoriously leaky back four. The German is positionally sound, defensively resilient and comfortable on the ball. He is also a big match player and has the knack of scoring vital goals
To argue that a 30-year old is past his prime is premature. The advances in sport science mean world class players can remain so well beyond their supposed 'decline periods'. Pirlo and Giggs are examples of players who have benefitted from this.
The BBC article said signing Schweinsteiger is/was a risk based on his fitness issues. Quoting them, they said "If he is fit to play over 30 Premier League games, I would be amazed. That is why I think it is a risky deal". But what they don't know is that he won't be required to play 30 premier league games because United have also signed Schneiderlin. On a second thought how many players actually play 30 premier league games?
United’s domestic rival will be intimidated by Schweinsteiger because of all that he has achieved, while his new teammates will be buoyed by the presence of someone who has made winning trophies look routine. All in all, it's a great deal
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