To add to the unveiling of the new centre-back, Raphael Varane, Manchester United secured a smashing 5-1 win in their game against Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds United. Here are 5 things we learned from the match:
1) Improved Defence
The match saw a great improvement in the defence of the Red Devils. Aaron Wan-Bissaka played beautifully, making good challenges and playing out from the back well.
Lindelof’s play improved as well. The new Swedish captain made important interceptions during the match.
Harry Maguire was back in the squad’s starting lineup after missing the last month of the 2020/21 season. The captain made several important clearances as he commanded the backline. Luke Shaw too was seen making important passes and linked up with Pogba well.
The team also improved on set-pieces after conceding many goals from it the previous season.
2) Brilliant Bruno-Pogba linkup
Bruno Fernandes made quite the statement by scoring a hattrick in the game while also linking up well with Paul Pogba. The Portuguese player made crucial key passes and was the catalyst of the match. Pogba too recorded four assists thus marking a great entry into the season.
Pogba had a huge influence on the game from his position on the left, showcasing his weight of pass on more than one occasion.
3) Timely Substitutions
The untimely substitutions problem made Manchester United lose several matches throughout the 2020/21 season.
The Devils also held a goalless draw against Leeds in their previous encounter. The manager made a 76′ substitution of Paul Pogba and then making one at 86 and then another, at 89′ in that match.
This time was different though, as Ole made a total of three substitutions within 75 minutes of the game. The 74′ substitution also introduced Sancho to the crowd as he showed some high promise in the remaining part of the game.
4) The Defensive Midfielder problem is still glaring
A lot of possession was lost at the midfield though the team played brilliantly. It clearly highlighted the importance of a defensive midfielder for the team.
With any transfer business unlikely in the remainder of the summer transfer window, Manchester United should go for a DM in the January transfer window.
5) Scott Mctominay showed promise
Scott McTominay delivered a brilliant performance in the match, making interceptions and passes at every chance possible.
When asked about his performance, Ole said; “Scott is a beast physically. He can run all day and now he’s a proper man out there. I thought he was excellent.”
With his current form, Scott McTominay is one of the best options to include in the starting XI.
