Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian has told Sky Sport Italia it is “too early” to be thinking about the transfer window and he does not believe manager Jose Mourinho wants to offload him.
Darmian had not played a minute of Premier League football this season until a defensive injury crisis at United led to him starting in the 0-0 draw against Burnley on Oct. 29.
He played as a right-back in that game but was switched to left-back for the 3-1 win at Swansea on Sunday after Chris Smalling and Luke Shaw told Mourinho they did not feel fit enough to play.
Asked about reports Mourinho wants to sell him, the Italy defender said: “I’ve read things like that, but I don’t think it’s true.
“I keep going on my way, working to improve and to give the coach a selection headache. I’m not thinking about the transfer market. It’s still too early.”
Although Mourinho has only given Darmian five appearances in all competitions this season, the United boss praised him after the Swansea game, saying he was “happy” for him because he performed outside his “natural position.”
Darmian joined up with the Italy squad after United’s win at Swansea ahead of their World Cup qualifier against Liechtenstein and friendly against Germany.
The 26-year-old added: “It’s always nice to be part of the Azzurri and representing my country is the best thing there is. As usual, coach [Giampiero] Ventura will find me extremely motivated.
“When you are not playing, there is always the risk that you won’t get called up, but I’ve always worked hard and I’ve been playing a bit more these past few weeks. Now I’m delighted to be here.”
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