Despite manager Quique Sanchez Flores’s insistence that Hannibal Mejbri would not be included, he has been added to Sevilla’s matchday squad for Sunday’s encounter against Osasuna.
Hannibal, who is on loan from Manchester United to the Spanish side, had a rough start to his time there, and Flores indicated on Saturday that he will not be considered for the near future. He wasn’t included in Atletico Madrid’s midweek Copa del Rey match because he made his debut last weekend in a 5-1 loss to Girona.
“After being with him, talking to him and having seen his first minutes in Girona, we are going to give him the necessary space to understand where he is, that he is at Sevilla and what it means,” said Flores. “He has to know where he is and we want to see him.”After consulting with him, we have come to the conclusion that he needs time to learn. We wished to grant him some space so he may observe things from a different perspective before he rejoins the team. Last but not least, these are young me𝚗 who, under extreme pressure, have found themselves unexpectedly signed by a huge club like Sevilla. Location is also important for them.
From the outside, that spot can look much better than inside. You need to do something to figure out what we want. I have faith that the lad will grasp our intentions in the end if he puts in the effort.
When Flores confirmed their 22-man roster for Sunday’s home match against Osasuna, Hannibal’s nаme was among them, suggesting a change of heart. Whatever prompted the manager to reconsider remаins a mystеry.
Advertisement
Hannibal is currently on loan from Sevilla, but the club has the option to extend his deal this summer for what would be roughly £17 million. The midfielder’s situation in Spain must improve before that can be implemented, though.