Manchester United: Taking advantage of a crazy season.

It’s been a lacklustre start to Manchester United’s Premier League season, with them yet to find their footing and show their true potential; albeit a 4-1 win over Newcastle in the last game week. In this game and their Champions League tie against PSG, it was glaring that certain players are more impactful than others and deserve starts instead of coming off the bench. Let’s highlight a few key areas and players that be the differentials Manchester United need to become a threat for the Premier League. 




  • Donny Van De Beek

The new kid on the Manchester United roster has been an immense signing. Although many were questioning his readiness for the big stage upon his move from Ajax, he has silenced his doubters. His season has started on the bench, with the Dutchman yet to receive a start with the Manchester side. However, when substituted on the pitch, the difference is undeniable. In last game week’s Newcastle win, the match stood at one a piece until his substitution. He and Bruno traded passes to set up the 2nd goal nicely for the devils and his overall tenacity, intelligence and reading of the match was game changing. The versatility he offers to the team is also undeniable; with his adaptability to any position an asset. Donny Van De Beek can be a differential for Manchester United, him starting in the upcoming match against Chelsea can be the difference maker United need.


  • Paul Pogba

Although his season started off a little shaky, Pogba has established himself as the United’s midfield anchor once more. With his COVID-19 diagnosis, his match fitness sorely lacked and his performances for the first few games of the season were out of his character. However, as a substitute in the PSG game, Pogba became the player that received the most passes of all his teammates; averaging only 12 seconds in between passes. He knows he’s the team’s pivot and dictates the match to a T. Although OGS may choose to have him come off bench instead of start like the PSG game, Pogba can only be a positive as he regains full match fitness to a United team that is slowly coming together. 


  • Defense

Unsurprisingly, Manchester United’s defenders; mainly their centre backs have been shambolic to put it lightly. Many of their dropped points came from defensively lapses that could have been avoided with the right personnel. Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof have been the pairing OGS has chosen as his starters however, Alex Tuanzebe and Eric Bailly have been doing the business for the Reds in their absence. Tuanzebe put on what can only be described as a stellar performance in United’s Champions League tie earlier this week and has seriously given himself a chance to be handed a start. Him, alongside Wan Bissaka managed to undo any attempt of a PSG attack, fearlessly making tackles and interceptions. For a front line consisting of Mbappe and Neymar, they were impressive. Eric Bailly has been showing signs of good health, with him being able to complete matches in full for both club and country. Him and Tuanzebe and two centre backs that are very physically fearless and will get into challenges when need be. This tenacity is something that can do a Manchester United team that is suffering defensively the world of good. 

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