Publications
Partners
Cape Town - Borussia Dortmund defender Marcel Schmelzer claims the whole squad were surprised by Henrikh Mkhitaryan's decision to leave the club.
Mkhitaryan, who has one year left on his contract with the Bundesliga side, is expected to complete his move to Old Trafford in the coming days - which marks the third signing of Jose Mourinho's tenure.
Schmelzer says the squad had no idea he intended to push a move through to the Premier League as he mentioned nothing to the squad during their first pre-season training session this week.
"I was surprised that 'Micki' decided to make the move after all," Schmelzer told reporters at a news conference. "Many players after the season talked to him about his plans.
"In the end, all you can do is to accept the decision.
"It's a major upheaval when your captain (Mats Hummels) leaves and also a player like 'Micki,' who's had a hand in 55 goals last season.
"The key now will be to offset it as a team. We have signed a lot of talented players, who will have to grow into their role. It will be difficult in any case because you can't replace Mats and 'Micki' like-for-like."
Mkhitaryan, who has one year left on his contract with the Bundesliga side, is expected to complete his move to Old Trafford in the coming days - which marks the third signing of Jose Mourinho's tenure.
Schmelzer says the squad had no idea he intended to push a move through to the Premier League as he mentioned nothing to the squad during their first pre-season training session this week.
"I was surprised that 'Micki' decided to make the move after all," Schmelzer told reporters at a news conference. "Many players after the season talked to him about his plans.
"In the end, all you can do is to accept the decision.
"It's a major upheaval when your captain (Mats Hummels) leaves and also a player like 'Micki,' who's had a hand in 55 goals last season.
"The key now will be to offset it as a team. We have signed a lot of talented players, who will have to grow into their role. It will be difficult in any case because you can't replace Mats and 'Micki' like-for-like."
