What are Manchester United’s plans for Hannibal Mejbri?

The 18-year-old has proved he’s ready to star on the big stage, so what’s the plan at Old Trafford?

Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick plans to establish Hannibal Mejbri in the first-team squad once he returns from the Africa Cup of Nations.

The French-born midfielder has represented Tunisia in the Arab Cup and AFCON recently, drawing widespread praise for his performances on the big stage under manager Mondher Kebaier in what has been a solid experience for his development.

His displays are said to have caught the eye of several Championship clubs in the past. They even inquired about signing the teenager on loan for this season. However, United have other plans for him instead.

Hannibal Mejbri is one to watch 👀 pic.twitter.com/jrXz4r7kKF

— Man United News (@ManUtdMEN) December 26, 2021

Hannibal Mejbri won’t join another club in January

A report from Goal has claimed Rangnick intends to insert Mejbri into the first-team set-up when he returns from Cameroon. The youngster will also continue to line up for the U-23 squad.

Indeed, Mejbri has become a key part of Neil Wood’s side since his promotion in 2020. The former Monaco man also made his senior debut in an eight-minute cameo against Wolves in the Premier League in May.

“I’m fully aware that we have another good, highly talented player coming from our youth ranks,” said Rangnick in December.

“Hopefully, after the Africa Cup of Nations, he can regularly train and be part of our group.”

Given Rangnick’s reputation for finding and developing young players at RB Leipzig, Mejbri could be starring in the Red Devils midfield sooner rather than later at the rate he’s going.