Former Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic has arrived in Italy as he closes in on a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Roma.
Matic confirmed his departure from United earlier this year, with the midfielder departing a year early on his contract at Old Trafford. The former Serbia international was one of only a few players to come out of the disastrous 2021/22 campaign with some credit, having won his place back in the side under Ralf Rangnick.
The 33-year-old, though, is now set for pastures new, and a reunion with former United boss Mourinho looks to be on the cards. Matic has been heavily linked with a move to Roma, with reports suggesting he will undergo a medical before having the transfer confirmed this week.
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Matic is expected to sign a one-year deal with the Europa Conference League champions, with the option of a second year. Reports have suggested the deal could see the midfielder earn around £3million a year.
Matic was seen arriving in Italy on Monday as he posed for cameras outside the airport in Rome and signed autographs for Roma fans. The free agent is now set to arrive at the Serie A side’s training camp for his medical.
It will be the third time Matic has joined a club managed by Mourinho, having previously played for the Portuguese at Chelsea and United. The midfielder has made 159 appearances for the 59-year-old during his career, more than he has for any other manager.
Despite the deal looking all-but done, Mourinho was coy when asked about Matic making the move to Roma last month. “I never like to speak about players, I don’t think it’s good for me, the club, the players,” said Mourinho.
“Everybody knows my relationship with Nemanja, he’s one of the guys with my trust. We won together, we fought together in United too. He’s a fantastic player but that’s the kind of answer that is not good for me or for the player.”
