With other teams faltering, it appears as if Manchester United find themselves in an unlikely title challenge. What must the club do to push champions Liverpool all the way?
It’s been an exceptional start to the Premier League for Manchester United, with many fans excited that the Red Devils are climbing back up towards the top of the table for the first time in a long time. United haven’t seen a league title post-Sir Alex Ferguson and, over time have seen many different faces come in and out of the club in the form of managers and players. At the moment, it seems the club has settled with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at the helm, and the squad is growing with a sparkle of promise amongst it.
At the time of writing, United sit in the third spot in the Premier League going into Christmas, with a game in hand - winning that could see them just two points behind league leaders and rivals, Liverpool. In spite of a disappointing Champions League campaign, United have racked up an impressive 26 points from thirteen games, and are yet to lose a game away from home in the league.
As a matter of fact, the current position United are in, is the closest they have been to first place at Christmas, in eight years. Thus sparking the question, what will it take to close the gap and begin the title charge?
An Upgrade in Defence
An apparent weakness in the United side would be the defence. Even in the spectacular game that saw Ole’s side win 6-2 against Leeds United, the defence still looked a little shaky at times, conceding goals that could’ve been avoided. For a long time now, United have sought a solid defence, spending over £300 million on defensive players since Sir Alex Ferguson left the club in 2013, however, they’re still yet to find a consistent, robust defence.
As the January transfer window approaches, rumours are flying around with numerous centre-backs being named as targets for Solskjaer, as well as a few unexpected names alongside them. Since the summer, United expressed clear interest in RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano, with many outlets claiming that United looked to secure his signature towards the end of the previous window. However, the rumours have sparked again and many of the same outlets claim he could be on his way in January.
It is unlikely for the French defender to join in January, with a move most likely to occur in the following window. This suggests that United are required to pursue a different name to enhance their defence this January. United will struggle to win the league relying on their current defence, therefore, a January centre-back signing is essential.
Recently, a common rumour seemed to be that Kieran Trippier, former Tottenham full-back, would be joining the reds. An unusual transfer that some reds may question. However, seeing Trippier join the Red Devils could develop Aaron Wan Bissaka as a wing-back by challenging his place in the squad.
Overall, a solid upgrade in defence allows United to push for the title, as a good partner for either Harry Maguire or Victor Lindelof creates a chance for consistency in defence.
A New Defensive Midfielder
In recent windows, United have vastly improved their midfield department, with players like Bruno Fernandes transforming the United side. Although even with new signings and good development from players like Scott McTominay, an extra defensive midfielder is required.
Manchester United need a rigid defensive minded midfielder. As Nemanja Matic grows older, questions arise about whether Fred or Scott McTominay can take on the role. During Ole’s time in charge, it’s become apparent that both players are more suited to a box-to-box role in midfield, despite showing great efforts as ball-winning players.
In terms of improving as a whole, by adding a player who defends well in midfield could enormously ameliorate a player like Paul Pogba who would thrive with the freedom that a defensive midfielder allows.
A couple of possible shortlisted players could include Declan Rice and Ruben Neves. How would either player fit into United’s system? Fairly simply. United tend to opt for a 4-2-3-1 formation, with one of the two holding midfielders playing as a box-to-box and one playing to sit-back and defend and support.
By using the double pivot in midfield with someone like Rice or Neves, alongside someone like Pogba, opens up a lot of possibilities for United. The freedom created by a defensive midfielder allows the partner to adopt a playmaking role which can easily augment an already incredible United attack.
As well as improving the midfield as a whole, with United’s brittle defence and common defence problems, an experienced defensive midfielder could help the back-four keep out goals and hopefully strengthen the side for a title charge.
So to conclude, United need a very defensive mindset heading into the January transfer window if they want to be considered for a chance at the 2020/21 Premier League title.
Let us know your thoughts and tell us how you think United could improve their chances of clinching the title this season over on Twitter @UnitedStandMUFC or @NewsUnitedStand.
Originally published for The United Stand.
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