In a surprise turnaround, Matteo Darmian has become an important player for Manchester United since the turn of 2017.

Bar last weekend's disappointing draw at home to Swansea City, the Italian full-back has started every game for Jose Mourinho's side since the start of April.

His future at Old Trafford remains unclear, with a mass exodus set to take place in the summer, but in Luke Shaw's absence, Darmian has stepped up.

Asked whether he will be staying at United last month, he told Tuttomercatoweb: "I wouldn't know what to say right now (about the future).

"The campaign isn't over yet and I am really concentrated on this final rush. I cannot predict my future.

"We all know that in this profession you can be somewhere one day and in a completely different place the next, but it would be inopportune to discuss it now.

"I am focused on getting the best with Manchester United, then at the right time we'll evaluate the situation."

A return to Italy with Juventus is reportedly on the cards but, for now, Darmian's focus is on helping United finish in the top four and win the Europa League.

The 27-year-old is a right-back by trade but started on the left against Celta Vigo in the semi-finals on Thursday night.

His opponent down the left was Iago Aspas and within 14 minutes of the game the Liverpool reject gave Darmian a taste of what to expect.

In the video below, Aspas received possession and produced a cheeky nutmeg on Darmian to beat the Italian and win a throw-in.

Aspas' piece of skill naturally went down well with the home fans, while Darmian was left a little bit red-faced. Check it out.

ASPAS TOYS WITH DARMIAN

Losing out to Aspas isn't as much of a shock anymore, in truth, given the 29-year-old has scored a phenomenal 17 league goals this season.

He's been fantastic for Celta, as evidenced by the fact he's currently fourth in the La Liga goalscoring charts and only three behind the great Cristiano Ronaldo.