“I don’t know why you are trying to sign Gyökeres when you already have a striker that is better than him. He’s a Real Touch of Class if managed properly”
That’s the bold claim from former England manager Fabio Capello, weighing in on Manchester United’s rumored interest in Sporting CP sensation Viktor Gyökeres—and insisting United already possess a superior striker.
Capello’s Take: Why Sign Gyökeres?
Capello’s quote is doing the rounds this week:
> “I don’t know why you are trying to sign Gyökeres when you already have a striker that is better than him. He’s a Real Touch of Class if managed properly”
In short, he’s questioning United’s logic in pursuing the Swedish goal machine when he believes a current Red Devil is already a better—and more cost-effective—option.
But wait, who is this mystery striker that tops Gyökeres? Capello didn’t name names, leaving plenty of room for speculation:
Rasmus Højlund: United’s current number 9, still adapting after a mixed debut season. Some see him as raw talent, others see inconsistency.
Anthony Martial: Injury-hit recently but a proven finisher if fit.
Joshua Zirkzee: Loaned out, yet showed glimpses during his Old Trafford cameo.
Others like Marcus Rashford or Cristiano Ronaldo (unlikely!)—but less likely given Capello’s specific criticism.
What’s the Gyökeres Hype?
Gyökeres has exploded onto the scene in Lisbon, netting close to 100 goals in about 100 games. He’s a pacey, physical number 9 who buries half chances in style—and that’s why top European clubs, including United, are chasing him . Sporting slapped a hefty ~€100 million clause on him—but talk is that a fee of around €65–70 million could be enough .
Capello’s Perspective: A Word from Wisdom
Capello isn’t dismissing Gyökeres’ quality; calling him “a Real Touch of Class” and praising his raw talent if he’s managed right. But he thinks the economics don’t add up. Why chase an expensive new striker when, with the right coaching and environment, you already have someone even better?
So… Does United Have “Better”?
Let’s break it down:
1. Performance vs. Potential
Gyökeres: Proven goal scorer, but untested in England’s rigours.
Højlund (for example): Flashes of genius but lacks consistency.
2. Price Tag
Gyökeres: Around €65–70 million.
Keeping and developing what you already own: minimal cost.
3. Fit under Amorim
New United boss Ruben Amorim already coached Gyökeres at Sporting—chemistry there could fast-track a move.
Capello suggests proper management of current options could yield similar or better results without the transfer headache.
But What About Premier League Realities?
A word of caution: success in Portugal doesn’t guarantee the same in England. Gyökeres has thumping numbers, but critics highlight his lack of top‑flight experience . Even Capello knows it’s not just class—it’s adapting to fiercer defenses, faster pace, and more scrutiny.
Bringing It All Together
Capello’s outburst isn’t just a headline—it’s a challenge. He’s saying:
Stop chasing headlines.
Invest in what you’ve got.
Proper management can do wonders.
If United already have a striker who, under the right conditions, performs better than a €70 million target, why not double down on development and coaching?
On the flip side, football is unpredictable. Maybe a fresh face like Gyökeres could invigorate the squad and excite fans (and Ambrose’s hopes) in ways internal options simply can’t.
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Bottom line:
Capello’s call is a wake-up. Don’t rush to chase flashy transfers if what you already own can deliver more—when given the right support. But Manchester United will have to decide: double down on homegrown promises… or bet big on a
new Belgian-born Swede tearing up Portugal? Either way, the debate’s just beginning.