United hosted Queens Park Rangers at Old Trafford on Sunday, and their record signing Angel di Maria inspired a morale-boosting 4-0 victory for the Reds to break their winless streak.
Louis van Gaal opted for a 4 man defense in this match, mainly because he didn’t have enough defenders to play his ‘preferred’ 3-5-2 system, but the result and the dominant performance must have made van Gaal think a bit about which system he will implement when he has a fully fit squad. Though I still think the ‘Iron Tulip’ will try and make United fit into a 4-3-3 system.
2.) The Angel Effect
United’s record signing, Angel di Maria, showed just why he is worth every penny of the 50 odd million which saw him leave Real Madrid to join Old Trafford. The Argentine, who is currently one of the best players in the world, was head and shoulders above everyone else on the pitch, and ultimately inspired his side to the 4-0 victory.
3.) The Blind-Herrera Partnership
It was finally incredible to see us actually competing in midfield for once, and that was down to Ander Herrera and Daley Blind’s fantastic performances. While Herrera played his normal box-to-box role, Blind was always there to cover up defensively which also allowed di Maria to attack freely and go charging up trying to lead a counter attack. These two will be key players as the season progresses.
4.) A Good Midfield = A Good Mata
In the opening matches of the season, Juan Mata has underperformed to say the least. The Spaniard found little freedom in his preferred role and failed to link the defense to attack like he was supposed to. However, with a midfield of Herrera, Blind and di Maria, Mata performed his role much better and that was visible on the pitch. Additionally, he also scored a goal which would have given him a much needed confidence boost.
5.) Strikers still a bit rusty?
Whilst captain Rooney found the back of the net with a nicely taken goal, van Persie and loan signing Radamel Falcao still looked a bit rusty, with both missing a couple of good chances which would’ve undoubtedly been buried if they were in top form. It is hardly concerning though, I am pretty sure they’ll be back to their best soon.
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Photo Credits: EPA
