Monday 26 September 2016 15:09, UK
Bastian Schweinsteiger's former team-mate Lukas Podolski has hit out at Jose Mourinho for his treatment of the veteran midfielder.
Mourinho has frozen Schweinsteiger out of the first-team picture at Manchester United and the former Germany captain is training with the reserves.
It is a significant fall from grace for the 32-year-old, who has won eight Bundesliga titles, the Champions League and the World Cup during his career, and Podolski believes Schweinsteiger should be treated with more respect.
Speaking to Bild, Podolski said: "When you look at the career Bastian has had, I can only say that what is happening there is simply not right for a player of his stature.
"I do not know what Mourinho has discussed with Bastian. But it is clear that it is not okay to drop someone like Basti to the reserves.
"A coach should always keep his door open to all players, and especially to players like Schweini."
Schweinsteiger made it clear prior to the end of the summer transfer window that he has no intention of playing for another team in Europe, but Podolski believes the MLS could be an intriguing option.
"I think America is great. Moving abroad is good for personality development and it would also be good for our children," added Podolski.
"Clearly it would be possible to play with Schweinsteiger in the States."
