Manchester United star named in team of the year, despite only half a season

 

French newspaper L’Equipe today announced their Ligue 1 team of the year for 2016. Much maligned, Ligue 1 has had some great performers over the past 12 months, and there’s good reason for Premier League scouts to be over in France every weekend.

Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has managed to find his way into the team, despite leaving PSG during the summer transfer window. There was little question to Ibrahimovic’s status whilst he was playing in France, and it’s clear he’s still something of a looming figure.

Aside from Ibrahimovic, there’s one other ‘half a season’ player selected by L’Equipe. Ousman Dembele moved to Borussia Dortmund from Rennes during the summer transfer, and his Ligue performances over the second half of last season have been seen as enough to justify inclusion.

Ibrahimovic’s old partner at PSG, Edinson Cavani, has made his way into the team, as has Saint Etienne goalkeeper Stephane Ruffier who, barring injury issues, Manchester United will come up against in the Europa League.