United lost Herrera and Fellaini recently. Many fans argue that we need to replace both, but Fellaini was hardly much cared for by the average supporter, and most wanted him gone. Herrera was useful and a fan favourite. He also possessed a winning mentality and had some skill. However, many would argue neither player was world class and that they weren't automatic starters.
On paper, some argue that Pogba is the best midfielder in the world. Matic was terrible last year, but there's reason to believe he can improve his form. I think too many fans think you are finished after 30. He's slow, but he's always been slow. Then we have Fred, who is capped for Brazil and was wanted by Guardiola when we bought him. On paper, I'd argue that trio is better than Liverpool's. The problem is, they haven't played better. To get them to that level, each player has to improve massively. This is Fred's second season, so I have hope that he can improve. He has potential.
Then you hav McTominay who seems to be ready to step in as a starter for us. I'm actually surprised at how good he has become. He doesn't have any stand out qualities, but he keeps it simple, positions himself well and makes some good attacking runs.
Pereira is an odd one for me, and I'd be surprised if he starts regularly. He's hardworking, can dribble and is very mobile for a centre mid, but too slow for a winger, so a bit like Beckham physically. I think he's a good squad option, and not much worse then most teams' fifth option in midfield.
Then you have Gomes and Garner who can both play in midfield and make up our squad depth. Two great young prospects that most argue need to be given time in the first team. Another first team signing would hamper those prospects.
I think we could definitely use a better number ten, where we have Mata, Lingard and Gomes, but if played regularly as a ten, Mata may surprise a few of us. He is slow as a turtle (mean on the turtle), but you don't need pace to be an effective number ten.
If we find a way to make these players click, I don't think our midfield is bad at all, but every player needs to step up. Considering that none of them, bar Matic, has hit their prime yet, I think that is to be expected.
I think the lack of a new attacking player is actually more of a concern!
