7M - Schweinsteiger's up-and-down career in Manchester United

On July 13th, 2015, Germany captain Bastian Schweinsteiger has signed a 3-year contract at Old Trafford. Former Bayern Munich midfielder cost Manchester United about reportedly €20 million, and his annual pension would be €10 million.

The 32-year-old player was named by Louis van Gaal, who has worked with him when coaching in Bayern Munich. Former United manager has confidence in Schweinsteiger. He believed that Schweinsteiger can be in a position to handle the game and push the squad in maturity and balance. Van Gaal also believed that he can be a perfect supply to Man United's midfield, and even the leader.

Germany captain followed his country to win Brazil World Cup in the summer of 2014, so he would be able to bring rich experience to the new club. Schweinsteiger once said, if he has to leave Bayern Munich one day, United would be his only choice. He was expecting to have once again collaborated with Van Gaal, an instructor and companion of him.

Soon, Schweinsteiger made his dream come true. He has been adjusted quite well in England's new life and went on well with teammates in the dressing room. The only drawback is that, his performance wasn't good enough to be known.

On Nov.29th, 2015, Schweinsteiger finally headed his first goal for the Red Devils in the top-of-the-table clash against Leicester City. According to the statistics of OPTA, the German has 4 shots during the battle, almost a half of the whole team, and also the most times among all the players in the squad. What's more, this marvelous organizer had a brilliant pass accuracy of 92%, only next to Mata's 95%. Daily Mail said, Schweinsteiger made us feel secure when he played with the ball in midfield.

Even so, Schweinsteiger has not yet turned the page. Owing to international duty and injury, German midfielder's appearances for United are very few.

A new anticipated manager, Jose Mourinho stepped into Old Trafford on May 27th, 2016. Since then, Schweinsteiger played only 2 games for United, both as a late substitute. One was England League Cup where United 4-1 won over West Ham, and the other one was FA Cup where United snatched a 4-0 win. Neither of them has Schweinsteiger bagged goals.

Now we may think that, does Mourinho's arrival lead to Schweinsteiger's dismal condition? Maybe not.

With the emergence of Jose Mourinho, Manchester United started the new season with 3-game winning streak. However, one player has been through a tough period - Bastian Schweinsteiger. He was no longer a part of the 53-year-old manager's plans, and was even been put in reserve. Therefore, the Germany legend was in rumors of an abominable relationship with the manager.

However, the World Cup winner has clarified the rumors on the press conference after his farewell international game for Germany. He said that Old Trafford would be his last station in Europe. Although United boss told frankly that Schweinsteiger may have few chance to play games, this midfielder still wishes to play for the club.

On Nov 22nd, 2016, Schweinsteiger was reportedly having dinner with Chicago Fire coach Veljko Paunovic, so many people may think about whether he will transfer in this winter transfer window. But he just reflected with glum understatement.

If not all about Mourinho's arrival, what's the problem?

When Schweinsteiger was injured, his teammates in United had admonished him to pay more attention in recovery and be positive for training. But, he did not seem to be praising the idea. He travelled with girlfriend, Ana Ivanovic, all around the world to watch her tennis competitions. Maybe Ana would be happy, but Mourinho would not. Attitude might be another reason for his snub.

There was another report saying that, Schweinsteiger did not earn much game-time because United official could pay less salary to him if he does not play games. Nevertheless, there are so many injuries in United's midfield. So Mourinho interceded with the club for Schweinsteiger's return to the squad.

In the FA Cup victory over Reading, German midfielder appeared as a substitute and played for more than 10 minutes. The Special One implied that Schweinsteiger would earn more game-time this month, saying: "He is an option, he is waiting for his chance to play and I think January is a good moment with so many games."

It is highly unlikely Schweinsteiger will be involved in United's Premier League clash with Liverpool on Sunday. What should the World Cup winner do?