Manchester United ended their season with a shock defeat to Spanish side Villareal in the Europa League final, in which it is now four years since the Reds have last won a trophy. Much of United’s problems revolve around the midfield area. In the Europa League final, United were dull and in-effective in possession. With a long summer ahead, lets take a look at some solutions to Solskjaer’s midfield dilemma.
Bruno the catalyst in midfield
One piece of the midfield puzzle, which does not need to be solved, is Bruno Fernandes. The Portuguese international has been in scintillating form this season, netting 28 goals in all competitions. Fernandes will maintain his place in Solskjaer’s side next season, however the playmaker does need someone to take some of the weight off his shoulders. That man could be Paul Pogba. The Frenchman has operated in various positions this season such as on the left wing and as part of a two in midfield. Although Pogba has been impressive on the left-side, his supreme passing ability is needed in more of a central area. Furthermore, this would also allow Rashford to return to his natural left-wing position .
This summer it is imperative that the Red Devils looks to acquire a new defensive midfielder, who can sit alongside Pogba. Solskjaer has tried various midfield combinations this season without any real success. Pogba requires a defensive midfielder who will cover him when he pushes forward into the final third; this freedom would bring the best out of 28-year-old.
An addition in central midfield area could also allow for a potential switch in formation. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s favoured 4-2-3-1 is often seen as cautious, in which the manager feels the need to play two defensive midfielders due to his side’s defensive vulnerabilities. Additional defensive cover could allow for Ole to return to the 4-3-3. The United boss frequently used this at the beginning of his United reign. Moreover, in this system Pogba would go into his favoured position-left of a midfield three. While, Bruno would move into a “number eight” position where he operates for Portugal. The 4-3-3 would allow for Pogba and Bruno to get on the ball further up the field with far less defensive responsibilities.
New signing marks the end of the midfield pivot?
During the 2020/21 campaign, Solskjaer’s go to midfield was the combination of Fred and Scott Mctominay. The pair had the managers trust and at times were the first names on the team-sheet. Fred is particularly effective at pressing, recovering possession and maintaining his defensive position. Whereas, Mctominay is much better at receiving the ball and moving into more advanced positions. However, both are not effective in possession against low blocks. Neither could play that defense-splitting pass and were often wasteful and un-inspiring in possession. It is of paramount importance that Manchester United look for a midfielder, who can provide sufficient defensive cover, but is also efficient on the ball. Let’s take a look at some potential targets, who could fulfill this role.
Solskjaer’s primary target in this position is most likely Declan Rice. Rice, 22, is in the spine of the West Ham team and would therefore not come cheaply. However, United could perhaps include Jesse Lingard, who was on loan at the Hammers, to reduce the fee. A cheaper alternative could be found in Brighton’s Yves Bissouma. Bissouma has had an exceptional season and there will be plenty of competition to sign him.
Another option could be Portugal international Ruben Neves. Neves possesses many unique qualities for this position, which could make him the ideal transfer target. The Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder is brilliant in possession and has no limitations in terms of his passing range. This deal remains very unlikely because of the huge fee Wolves would demand, but also because of his lack of physicality. Any signing would likely mean that Fred and Mctominay drop to the bench, which provide some much needed depth in the midfield area.
Can van de Beek force his way into Solskjaer’s plans?
In order to fund a new midfielder it is likely that there will be some outgoings. Nemanja Matic could reunite with former United boss Jose Mourinho in Italy. Matic is unlikely to feature much next season, due to his inability to start consecutive games. Another big name, which inevitably creates speculation every summer is Paul Pogba. Agent Mino Raiola loves to bring some drama regarding a potential exit for Pogba. But, for the first time in years it appears that the Frenchman is happy at Old Trafford.
Uncertainty will also surround Dutch international Donny van de Beek this summer. Van de Beek had limited game time this season and this was mainly due to the impressive performances of Bruno Fernandes. The Old Trafford faithful would have little complaints if van de Beek wanted to leave, but it seems likely that 24-year-old will stay and fight for his place. The midfielder had a troubling season last year, but now that he has time to adapt to the league, this season could be his breakthrough. He is likely to play much more of a role in the upcoming season and the Euros may provide him with the confidence he needs to make an impact at United.
