Henrikh Mkhitaryan was a "Raiola makeweight" in United move: MENJuly 23, 2018 - 10:34 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenian midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan joined Manchester United in 2016 as a "makewight" for agent Mino Raiola, claims a report on Manchester Evening News. The Arsenal star joined Manchester United in 2016 and was reportedly identified to strengthen the right on the back of his enterprising final year with Borussia Dortmund. He left United in January after a turbulent 18 months at Old Trafford and joined the Gunners, with Alexis Sanchez moving in the opposite direction. And the new report now suggests that Manchester United only signed Mkhitaryan to sweeten Raiola. Mkhitaryan, however, explained why he left United for Arsenal back in April. He said: "When I heard I could swap Man United for Arsenal, I said, 'Yes, I want to do that.’ I didn't think twice. It's important for me to play in an offensive team. I couldn't have imagined a better start. I'd missed playing offensively. I joined Arsenal because [Arsene] Wenger wanted me, not because he wanted to replace Sanchez. We are different players and characters, with different abilities and skills, so I'll try my best to do everything for the club." Top stories Armenian gymnast, Olympic bronze medalist Artur Davtyan has reached the finals of the World Cup. Gor Manvelyan has denied reports alleging that he has expressed a desire to one day play for the French national team. Roma midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan is not considering FC Spartak Moscow as his next haven, according to fresh reports. 10 Armenian lifters will compete in the 2021 World Championships scheduled to be held from 7 to 17 December in Tashkent. Partner news | European Parliament to discuss repression in Azerbaijan The European Parliament will discuss repression of civil society in Azerbaijan on April 24 PACE wants concessions from Azerbaijan to accept Baku back A PACE co-rapporteur said that Azerbaijani authorities must make certain concessions so that the country can return to PACE. Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. |