Man United lost 3 – 1 to PSG in a trilling match. We take a look at five things that we learnt.
Also take a look at Match Analysis
1. THE LOSS IS PARTIALLY DUE TO POOR MANAGEMENT
I want to clarify this – I’m not Ole Out. I have faith that he will be successful. But the decisions he made against PSG were atrocious. Firstly, the team selection was wrong. Not enough creativity and no pace at the CB position. We could have started Fosu Mensah to cover for the suspended Tuanzebe. The double pivot also doesn’t make sense to me. Also, why wasn’t Fred taken off at half time?? He was one stupid mistake away from being sent off. And why were the substitutions made so late??
2. DONNY VAN DE BEEK NEEDED TO START FOR MAN UNITED
There is no sense in playing a double pivot which tends to isolate Fernandes as the sole creator in the team. Van de Beek can do what Scott McTominay did in his sleep. Firstly, he is a player who can provide an option for a pass in midfield. Secondly, he has the vision to create attacks with his passing range. And finally, he is not shy of a tackle. He should have started the game but didn’t and it cost us.
3. WE NEED A NEW CENTRE BACK TO PAIR WITH MAGUIRE/LINDELOF
More than just that, we need a consistent one who is fast. Because of our defensive frailties, we play two holding midfielders in front of them. Man United conceded goals today because of lack of pace. We were excellent going forward because of it but we were extremely open at the back. I’m still not convinced about our centre backs and I think we need to bring in a new one and see who he pairs up with best. Someone like Koulibally/Upamecano will also add leadership to the defence – something that’s missing (I’m not convinced Harry Maguire is a leader).
Check out my article on How to fix our defensive issues.
4. RASHFORD WAS A CONSTANT THREAT FOR MAN UNITED
Marcus Rashford was a constant menace for the PSG defence. He consistently threatened the backline with darting runs. It’s something about PSG and Champions League football that seems to bring out the best in him. He also got the only goal we scored albeit a lucky one. Regardless, we could have won the game had it been for better decisions and better defending. (I wont blame finishing here)..
5. MAN UNITED’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE CAMPAIGN IS IN THEIR HANDS
The loss against PSG did hurt but our Champions League campaign still is in our hands. A point against RB Leipzig is a must and we cannot loose at any cost. We need players to step up and secure a spot in the Round of 16.
