The term McFred thing is an absolute nonsense and since it’s origins on a fan channel seems to have stuck on forums and in the media. They are separate players in every way and I’d argue whilst there is an argument about whether they are ‘good enough’, you can add Bruno to the reasons why they get exposed too.
Part of the reason we lost games in midfield is often they are overrun playing against 3 in an already shite system with a keeper and CB’s playing deep leaving loads of space in front of them and Bruno playing like a false 9, leaving loads of space behind him. Two players can’t accommodate those 2 large areas of space and probably why Pogs or Matic couldn’t do it either.
Whilst Fred is never a CDM, is running covered up a lot of the issues but equally exposed his deficiencies…….
I agree. I think, it is one of this seasons biggest "hopes" that at the very least, ETH will be able to identify that as an issue and will be able to deal with it. Seeing Brunos form in pre-season, his connection to unhappy Ronaldo and the introduction of Eriksen, he might be in for a rough time - at least he should. He is a great footballer, instrinctively playing vertical passes but as long as he isn't able to frame that ability with some sort of reasonable'ness, his benefits might even be egalized by the downsides. Bringing in Martinez, who is supposed to be a front-foot-defender with an aggressive style will also help closing the gaps, having more energy down the left side with Malacia could also help.
But, as pointed out, my biggest pain points in this matter, is the defensive contribution of the forward line. Seeing the Community Shield Match (don't know if it is a fair representation) showed how far behind we are there. I hope, with some success there will be confidence and confidence will lead to higher energy levels.
On the supposed midfield transfer, if FDJ is identified as the primary solution, I'll be fine with chasing him until the very end. But for me there just is no scenario, where bringing in a defensively sound midfielder isn't a good idea. Doesn't even have to be in the bracket of FDJ. Or even in the bracket of Martinez, if we could bring in either a young talent like Malacia or a veteran like Eriksen we'd gain so much. Be it flexibility (by being able to switch formations in game or close up shop in a tight game in the 80th minute). I don't accept that there isn't supposedly one player in football world, who fits that bill.