Manchester United’s Left-Back Dilemma: Alvaro Fernandez’s Permanent Move to Benfica
Manchester United recently finalized transfer of promising left-back Alvaro Fernandez to Benfica for fee of €6 million. This decision comes as somewhat of surprise. Given defensive challenges the club faced throughout just-concluded season. With Luke Shaw absent for majority of campaign. Tyrell Malacia sidelined since pre-season. Manchester United struggled to find consistent solution at left-back. Sports Buddy delves into whether letting Fernandez go is a strategic error by Manchester United. Potentially repeating past mistakes like the Paul Pogba situation.
Manchester United’s Defensive Woes
The left-back position was persistent problem for Manchester United this season. Luke Shaw’s long-term injury left significant void. Tyrell Malacia expected to provide cover, has been unavailable due to an injury sustained in pre-season. This forced Erik ten Hag to make several makeshift adjustments to the squad.
Diogo Dalot primarily a right-back, frequently filled in on the left side of the defense. His compatriot Aaron Wan-Bissaka also had to step into the left-back role. This happened towards the end of the season. Despite their best efforts, these players are not natural left-backs. This led to imbalances in defensive play. Even Sofyan Amrabat and Victor Lindelof had to feature as left-backs. This underscored the depth of the crisis.
The Case for Alvaro Fernandez
Alvaro Fernandez’s performances at Benfica where he impressed significantly, highlight his potential. Just 20 years old Fernandez showcased his talent and adaptability in top European league. His move to Benfica on permanent basis for €6 million raises questions about Manchester United’s long-term strategy. Fabrizio Romano, a reputable source for transfer news confirmed deal includes a buy-back clause. Also matching rights and sell-on clause. These provisions suggest Manchester United is aware of Fernandez’s potential. The club wants to retain some level of control over his future. However, the immediate decision to sell him could be seen as short-sighted. Especially given the club’s current struggles in that position
Avoiding a Repeat of the Pogba Scenario

Manchester United fans are all too familiar with Paul Pogba saga. French midfielder left club for Juventus on free transfer. Later he was bought back for then-record fee of £89 million. Letting Fernandez go for a relatively modest fee could set up similar situation. Club might have to spend significantly to re-sign him if he continues to develop as top-tier talent.
The inclusion of buy-back clause provides some security, but it doesn’t completely mitigate risk. Manchester United’s history of transfer dealings has shown that allowing young talents to leave can sometimes lead to regret. Fernandez’s case is especially pertinent given club’s current and anticipated future needs in the left-back position.
Strategic Decisions and Future Implications
In conclusion Manchester United’s decision to sell Alvaro Fernandez to Benfica is complex one. While club has secured future options with buy-back and sell-on clauses. The immediate need for reliable left-back makes this move questionable. The club’s defensive struggles this season. Exacerbated by injuries to key players, highlight the potential value Fernandez could have brought to squad.
As Manchester United looks to rebuild and strengthen its squad. The decision to let Fernandez go will be scrutinized. Fans and analysts alike will be watching. To see if this move becomes another example of the club’s sometimes myopic transfer strategies. Or if it will ultimately be seen as a calculated risk that paid off. Only time will tell if United will need to dig deep into their pockets again. To re-secure the services of player they already had in their ranks.