When United expected to dominate possession, Ole uses 4-2-3-1 without a dedicated holding midfielder because CMs are flexible and assume different roles throughout the game depending on where is the ball or assigned marking. I think, it is a very progressive and flexible setup which is great against high press. People forgot how we struggled when put under high press last season (I can elaborate on this and “bad coaching” bullshit if need to be).
But it (4-2-3-1 Ole version) takes time because you have to play tactics in competitive games. Play a lot. That’s why I think “Ole out“ is not something to discuss this season (no the point of this post).
ok. Back to the midfield. MCT and especially Fred showed a huge progress this year in this set up and are the best players available for us in the world football (I know, it’s a bold statement) for our specific needs.
Both play for us, both have high game ratings and stats, both were solid against top teams. They do their work, and they do it damn well. Again, McFred do their job (physical presence, pressing, ball transition to the final third) at a top team level, and therefore, I think, they are our midfield pair for years to come.
So, we have McFred but have Pereira and Matic as a back up plan. Remarkably shit option. Probably, interest in Longstaff indeed took place. United refused (rightfully) to pay £50 m for a player who needs to be coached and moulded into the role. I expect, United will buy a £25-30 M young CM this summer, and one of Matic or Pereira will stay as squad player.
Now, the key position - number 10. It is our most influential Player in final third. Ole‘s Biggest mistake so far is relying on Lingard/Mata as our options.The mistake cost us and might cost him job (highly unlikely, though).
Bruno is exactly what we needed. I have a theory why we didn’t buy him in summer But it’s not the point. Bruno started so well because, it is the position he is born for. A modern advanced playmaker with significant defensive and team duties. He is not a maestro type guy. He is a working horse. We have to by a cover this summer. In summer, Lingard out, Mata stays as a good third option. Forget about Grealish and Maddison: they will not come to sit on the bench. Some young talent for £35-40 M pounds is a target for summer.
I don’t even consider Pogba as tactically important United player this season. Never mind the next. For the purposes of this post, he doesn’t exist.
Summary: United Midfiield
2019/2020.
Double pivot: McTominay, Fred. Cover: Matic, Pereira.
N10: Bruno. Cover: Lingard, Mata.
2020/2021:
Mctominay, Fred. Cover: New signing, Matic (or Pereira)
Bruno. Cover: New signing, Mata.
Unit: 3 first team players, 4 players for cover, total 7 players.