Comment: Should Manchester United Keep Carlos Tevez?

Almost every week, the English and Spanish tabloids are filled with reports of Carlos Tevez making his mind up to leave the European champions. While some claim that he shall leave for Spanish shores, others have linked him to a potential transfer to Manchester City, Liverpool and even Chelsea. Tevez made his way into English football when West Ham signed him through Media Sports Investments (MSI) agency which was followed by a two year loan deal to Manchester United.

The Argentinean first choice striker has been terrific for United in his almost two seasons at United. When Ferguson signed him on loan last season, many believed that he wouldn’t click at United as Wayne Rooney and El Apache were far too similar. All the doubts were put to rest when the English giants went on to win the Premier League and more importantly, the Champions League.

This season hasn’t been very rosy for the star striker. With United bringing in Tottenham’s Dimitar Berbatov, automatically Tevez’s opportunities to start began to go down to a level that the player was used primarily in games where the first two strikers – Rooney and the Bulgarian were to be given rest. Or he would be played in the Carling Cup and FA Cup where Sir Alex Ferguson often gave his second string side an opportunity.

It’s frustrating as a player to sit on the bench despite not having played badly which is exactly what Tevez has been pointing.

“I do not feel wanted. I feel bad over my situation, I do, but it's very, very difficult to stay any longer. I guess what I'm saying is goodbye," he was quoted saying.

Despite coming from the bench, the 25 year old has been very influential and has popped up crucial goals. How can one forget his four goals against Blackburn Rovers in the Carling Cup? What about the second goal he netted against Porto FC at Old Trafford in what appeared to have been the winner?

Against Tottenham, United were 2-0 down at half-time and hadn’t created much in the first session. Out went Nani and in came Tevez in the second session. Suddenly, Manchester United buzzed of energy and the team looked more than certain to score. Eventually, they went on to win 5-2. What a comeback! Though it was Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney’s brace which made the headlines, the duo attributed the presence of Tevez in the second half as being the key to United’s win.

He has scored the fastest goal in the Champions League this season against Aalborg in less than three minutes. He started against Arsenal at Old Trafford in the Champions League semi-finals and the Argentinean was more than effective in putting the Arsenal back-line under pressure. He had some good opportunities but was denied by the super saves by Manuel Almunia.

And the Manchester derby victory where he scored a class of a goal from 20 yards and sent the message to Sir Alex Ferguson that ‘I deserve an offer from Manchester United’. The fans responded by chanting,”Fergie, sign him up.”

It’s the raw energy and an unwavering work rate that Tevez brings on the pitch which is contagious. The floppy haired star is known to chase and the rival defenders under pressure. Very often United fans are seen applauding his efforts to regain possession as he pressurizes and none can question his level of commitment and professionalism.

Tevez is too good to be a squad player in any team and the player is aware of this. If Sir Alex Ferguson decides not to shell out £32million for the South American, then he would be well on his way out of Old Trafford and it would be sad that a player of such immense talent would get the boot.

Rahul Bali.

Goal.com wants to hear your voice. Should Sir Alex Ferguson keep Carlos Tevez at Manchester United? Maybe the Argentinean Prophet for the 21st century deserves more respect...