Paul Pogba effortlessly sets up goal for Henrikh Mkhitaryan
Manchester United fans love Mkhitaryan. The Armenia international is a class act and was a key part of the team that won the EFL Cup and Europa League last year.
But they also loved Shinji Kagawa. And look how that turned out.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan was anonymous against Liverpool and his drab showing suggests the Red Devils may have another Kagawa on their hands.
The Japan international arrived from Borussia Dortmund in 2012 and, as YouTube viewers would testify, with quite a reputation.
But after two years of very little highlights, he was sold by Louis van Gaal. It was the correct decision.
Mkhitaryan is similar in nearly every aspect. He has pace, is blessed with creativity and came from Borussia Dortmund.
Under Pep Guardiola, he would probably flourish. Under Mourinho? It just is not happening.
Five assists in his first two games prompted fans to laud him as their answer to Kevin De Bruyne. This was, in their eyes, HIS year.
But the 28-year-old has done precious little in the time since.
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Man Utd News: Henrikh Mkhitaryan endured a nightmare game against Liverpool
Fans were quick to blast Romelu Lukaku, who failed to score a 12th goal from 11 outings, on Saturday. What a flop, eh?.
None of them really mentioned just how bad Mkhitaryan was.
A year ago, he was in exile. Mourinho was reluctant to pick him and supposedly harboured doubts over his strength, both physical and mental.
He responded with fine performances - but only in Europe. He was nowhere to be seen as the club lost out on a place in the Premier League top four.
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Man Utd News: Shinji Kagawa flopped at Old Trafford
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Against Liverpool, he was anonymous. Only when hooked for Jesse Lingard did the TV and radio commentators even have to say his name.
The January transfer window opens soon and, if United are going for the title along with Manchester City, then Mourinho may look to move him on.
Mesut Ozil may be his replacement. It is an open secret the Germany international is hellbent on leaving Arsenal at the first opportunity.
And he may actually be the perfect fit. Mourinho managed him at Real Madrid and is part of the reason why he is still held in such high esteem.
