How Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's tactical masterclass left Jurgen Klopp scratching his head all game.
A blockbuster game awaited Manchester United at Anfield as they looked to maintain their no.1 position in the Premier League. A well-fought point was earned with United enjoying a plethora of chances to take the lead throughout the game.
The lineup appeared to be a typical 4-2-3-1 shape which Ole tends to return to, although as the players entered the field, uncertainty arose over Paul Pogba’s starting position. Within the first fifteen minutes, it became clear that Paul Pogba was sitting on the right hand side of midfield and from this position, it was visible that he was uncomfortable.
He was forced back into more of a wing-back position and created an absence from the United attack. This was quickly fixed though, as the Frenchman moved into a more central position, with Bruno Fernades appearing to be playing in more of a free-roam role.
The majority of the first half was intense for United, with Liverpool’s attack seeming relentless. The Premier League champions had the jump start from kick off and proved a lot more perilous than United. Consequently, United really struggled to get into the opposition box, with Scott McTominay and Fred seemingly overwhelmed in midifield by the Liverpool trio in the middle of the park.
United’s only escape in the early moments was searching for Marcus Rashford who did very well to get in behind the unusual defensive pairing of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho. Rashford was blessed with an abundance of long passes in behind when United’s defence managed to dispossess Liverpool. However, the problem that followed was the numerous offside positions that Rashford was caught in. Despite this, there were a couple of good chances, but nothing came from them, unfortunately.
Over time, Liverpool’s attack calmed down and their midfield loosened, allowing Manchester United to advance with much more ease than in the initial fifteen minutes. After surviving Liverpool’s first threat, United were able to breathe and recover their feet.
It was conspicuous that United looked to punish the home side on the counter, and from this, a diverse number of half-witted fouls accumulated from the Liverpool defence. One of which led to a brilliantly struck free kick from the midfield maestro, Bruno Fernandes who was tucked into his no.10 role where we regularly see him.
The midfield duo of Scott Mctominay and Fred provided a lot of energy for United after the first half began to settle, and the ball was able to be won before Liverpool created any dangerous chances. Both players were able to provide an easy outlet for all the attackers on quick counters.
At the whistle to commence the second half, Ole’s side had no changes. The team looked energised and prepared for the challenge ahead. A clear trouble for United was Liverpool’s Thiago who was able to pinpoint a pass from most positions in the first half, even so, with the second half, United began to quiet the starman and limited him to creating only one clear goal-scoring opportunity.
Over time, Luke Shaw has adapted into a much greater attacking role when playing full-back, almost becoming more of a wing-back. This became evident throughout the match. Once United stepped up their game and chased the winning goal, Liverpool stepped off the gas and allowed us to attack.
A key chance in the game began with Marcus Rashford running up the left-hand side following a Liverpool attack. An incredible overlap from Luke Shaw inspired the rest of the team to pile into the box as an opportunity to score looked likely. Shaw, who put in a man of the match performance in attack and defence, squared the ball in to Bruno Fernandes who couldn’t find a good strike and Allison saved a possible match winner. Spectacular from Luke Shaw!
A very noticeable change in the lineup was the absence of Eric Bailly, which left many fans confused after some very impressive performances as of late for the Ivorian defender. In his spot, Victor Lindelof stepped into the team after returning from an injury. The United defence aligned fairly narrow when Liverpool were on the ball, allowing both of the opposition fullbacks to pile crosses into our box. This tactical setup, combined with some excellent aerial solidity from United, allowed for a superb performance from the back four.
Bizarrely, Bruno Fernandes was substituted 89th minute, in spite of Scott McTominay appearing to be uncomfortable with a slight knock. With United pushing for a goal, the Portuguese midfielder was replaced by Mason Greenwood who took up a wide role on the right side of midfield. This opened up the number 10 role for Paul Pogba but the chances didn’t come and the time remaining was insufficient.
Lindelof was one to surprise many, with his performance exceeding expectations showing the fans why he is an active competitor for Eric Bailly. In terms of defence, Luke Shaw is the main subject of discussion. An outstanding performance, with 100% of his tackles won, eight ball recoveries, four clearances and all to capture the clean sheet after the full 90 minutes.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka seemed to improve with his defensive positioning, and didn’t allow himself to be dragged inside, even with the shower of crosses forecast over the United box. Harry Maguire was as solid as ever, a noble captain’s performance.
Overall, an impressive performance from the reds, who managed to set up nicely against the current Premier League champions. United defended with confidence and allowed Liverpool to pile in crosses, cancelling out the threat of a dangerous front three of Salah, Mane and Firmino.
On the other end of the field, the attackers struggled from time to time, and Alisson didn’t really break a sweat, as every shot was simple for the talented keeper. A lack of substitutes or perhaps the wrong substitutes, could’ve been a catalyst to United struggling to score but a point still helps them maintain the title push as they sit on top of the table for the second week in a row.
Originally published for The United Stand.
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