A few promising signs early on that will improve as the players become accustomed to it, even if it will be against infinitely superior opposition than LA Galaxy.
From a defensive perspective it looked quite good. Agree with bishblaise about how much more difficult it is to maintain your defensive shape and keep your backline three aligned, opposed to a back two/four where it's pretty simplistic with the right coaching and able players. As it is, Smalling, Jones and Evans were impressive in their positional play, save for LA exploiting space down Evans' side in the early stages. When one of the three pressed the opposition and came out of defence, Fletcher did well to momentarily fill in also. We could well be playing with two number #8's next season if we sign Vidal however, so the three defenders might have to sit back more and be more cautious.
The main concern is the wingbacks for me. You could see how uncomfortable Shaw was in that role right from the off and playing high up the pitch didn't suit his natural game whereby his defensive work is more impressive than the attacking outlet he would provide. It's his first game, so not much should be read into it and his attacking game will improve, but it takes emphasis away from his solid defensive game and expects too much from him offensively. However, in the long run the right side looks more of a weakness. Valencia was again inept going forward and looked out of his depth, but he should do better there with more time on the ball in the final third. You'd think Rafael would displace Valencia, but being deployed as a fullback might be more befitting of his ability. He will certainly be a better attacking outlet than Valencia though.
The midfield looked good. Very compact, good pressing and it's such a huge relief to have someone like Herrera who can play at such a high pace whether it's running with the ball, linking with teammates or darting into space. He was exceptional and will be hugely important for this system to work. Fletcher anchored quite well, but as I said, we will likely sign another midfielder, so it's getting the balance right. Good energy, good tactical discipline and good interplay at times. Probably the most encouraging signs ahead of the defence and attack funnily enough.
Onto the attack. Personally I think this system really requires a pacy forward - Welbeck in our case - who can stretch play and supplement movement, otherwise the attack is far too static. It's a system where all three of van Persie, Mata and Rooney would be deployed in their correct positions, but it isn't the conundrum to playing all three at once and quite frankly I don't think there is one. If LVG really does plan to use this formation frequently, Welbeck is essential out of our current options and then it's a toss-up between van Persie and Rooney.
In summary, the centre backs will improve and develop a better understanding of their role with more game time. However, the wingbacks could be a potential weakness. The midfield looks very positive with Herrera and Mata and the forward line still doesn't solve the van Persie/Rooney conundrum. It will be interesting to see how it pans out.
