Michu will not be returning to Swansea City during the course of the current season, manager Garry Monk has confirmed.
The Spanish forward joined the Swans from Rayo Vallecano in the summer of 2012, and he proved to be one of the bargains of the season at just £2million. Michu scored 18 goals in 35 league appearances for the Liberty Stadium club and another four in eight cup matches, including the second of the 5-0 win over Bradford City in the League Cup final at Wembley Stadium.
However, he struggled with injuries during the 203-14 campaign, with just two goals in 17 league matches, although he did score four times in seven UEFA Europa League outings. But with Wilfried Bony, who joined from Vitesse Arnhem for £12million in 2013, now considered as the main striker for the Welsh club, they were happy to let Michu join Napoli on loan for the season.
Unfortunately for the 28-year-old, his time in Italy has also been interrupted by injury problems. He has so far started just one Serie A match with another appearance as a substitute, and he has also made two outings in the Europa League. It has been suggested that Rafael Benitez is willing to send him back to the Swans in January, but Monk insists the loan agreement will stand.
“Nothing’s changed as far as I’m concerned,” Monk said. “I know he’s struggling with his injury, but communication between the club is nothing about him coming back. I will focus on players here. Michu made the decision to try a different challenge which I supported because we have a great relationship. But in terms of this season I’m dealing with the players we have here.”
What the future holds for Michu remains to be seen, particularly if his struggles in Italy continue. Il Partenopei have the option to take the forward on a permanent deal in the summer, but are unlikely to take up this options unless his situation improves. If he is to return to his parent club, he will do so in the knowledge he will enter the 2015-16 campaign with just 12 months left on his contract.
Does Michu have a future at Swansea, or has he in all reality played his last game for the club? Let us know what you think by joining in the discussion below.
