Manchester United might have bought themselves a dud, says the man who sold him

He was supposed to be the smooth engine that powered the Manchester United midfield this season, but Bastian Schweinsteiger might just be a breakdown waiting to happen

The German's most recent boss, Pep Guardiola, claims that the midfielder's fitness levels have been declining steadily since 2012. Bayern manager Guardiola said: "When he does not have injury problems, I am completely convinced he will do very well at Manchester United. He is a top, top player. Unfortunately, during the last three years was never in good condition." Schweinsteiger found himself on the wrong end of a volley from United boss Louis van Gaal for his unimpressive performance during United's pre-season tour of the USA and, given he was brought to Old Trafford to play a key role in United's title challenge, his fitness issues could leave an unwelcome question mark over Van Gaal's midfieldfor the duration of the Premier League campaign. Guardiola was, however, effusive in his praise for another of his former players that could turn up at United in the coming weeks, Barcelona forward Pedro. “He is one of the best players you can imagine," he said. “He's won the European Cup, the Champions League and played millions of games for Barcelona. He can play in any team in the world, but I don’t know the situation right now. He’s a great player.” [h/t Telegraph]