It looks like one of Manchester United’s old boys is set to return to the theater of dreams, that too as soon as next week.
Bulgarian forward Dimitar Berbatov was one of the most exciting players in the Premier League in the early noughties. He sizzled for Tottenham for a couple of seasons before leaving for Manchester United, where he would enjoy much success in a four year stint.
Since leaving Old Trafford, Berbatov has had stints at Fulham, AS Monaco and most recently Greek club PAOK. The Greeks signed him with much fanfare in 2015, but have let him go just one year later, with the most entertaining highlight of Berbatov’s stint probably being the time the player interviewed himself on Facebook.
It now looks like ‘Berba’ could soon be gracing the grounds of Old Trafford once again. The 35-year-old is set to head to Manchester United next week for what has been described as an ‘internship’, according to Bulgarian publication Sportal.
Berbatov scored 56 goals in 149 appearances for the Red Devils in all competitions. His honours with United include two Premier League titles, a league cup and the Premier League golden boot for the 2010-11 season. The Bulgarian is fondly remembered for his tactical acumen, calm demeanour and finesse while passing or shooting.
It is still unclear what kind of role Berbatov will be playing at Manchester United, if he really does return next week. The 35-year-old has no experience of coaching and has thus far, given no indication that this is a line of work he would consider.
Furthermore, the relations between him and United aren’t as warm as they once were. This United team is unrecognizable from the one he played with during his time there, with some notable exceptions being Wayne Rooney and Michael Carrick.
Sir Alex Ferguson, who was so supportive of Berba, is also no longer at the helm. Instead, the Bulgarian forward will be working with a manager he has known more as an opponent than a mentor in Jose Mourinho.
Whatever this ‘internship’ might mean, the Old Trafford faithful will be pleased to have the chance to see Berba light up the The Theatre of Dreams once again.
