Football News: Does Manchester United Stand At A Crossroads?

As the curtain comes down on another season perhaps Manchester United stands at a crossroads both on and off the pitch.

As the sale drags on with no obvious conclusion in sight it's effect on the summer transfer window remains to be seen.

As Utd look to build on a encouraging first season under EtH there remains much debate amongst supporters as to where those improvements can be made.

It's seems obvious to suggest a new CF should be the priority but the clamour for a new GK cannot be ignored.

With the golden glove in the bag and a relatively decent defensive record, especially at Old Trafford some may feel the GK situation can wait for another season. There are some however, that feel EtH is unable to implement his philosophy or stamp his authority on the team if the current incumbent is not replaced this summer.

There is little doubt that without a confident, ball playing GK the ability to keep possession and beat the press is greatly reduced but how important is this to the evolution of the team?!

Rashford hot off the back of his best goal scoring season is still better in the transitions with green grass to sprint into or against teams not fully set in their defensive organisation. He's not reliable or patient in possession. Bruno for all his creativity, still gives the ball away with alarmingly regularity.

As EtH works to improve and bridge the gap Utd still remain most effective in the transitions. Winning the ball back higher up the pitch or on the counter attack, moving it forward quickly to the galloping Rashford.

With the Club prioritising Mount, presumably to replace the languid Eriksen, is this an early indication that EtH will look to counter press more effectively and continue to move the ball forward quickly into the likes of Rashford?!

I think it remains a possibility that Rashford could be converted to a CF next season with Garnacho playing more regularly from the left. Another player very effective in the transitions.

The signing of a new first choice GK this summer might just indicate the biggest revolution in playing style we've seen since LvG.

If one doesn't arrive then I see more emphasis on counter pressing and moving the ball forward quickly to the likes of Rashford, Garnacho and Anthony rather than a more possession based game and building out from the back.

Written by DLIB June 05 2023 14:38:47