Manchester United's Tactical Problems: A Comprehensive Analysis

TLDRManchester United's structural and tactical problems, highlighted in the recent game against Newcastle, are a result of poor personnel choices and a lack of cohesive play. The team's high defensive line and gaps between defenders and attackers have led to a high number of shots conceded. Eric ten Hag's management decisions, including player selection and defensive strategies, have contributed to the team's struggles.

Key insights

🔴Manchester United's high defensive line and uncompact structure have resulted in an alarming number of shots conceded.

🧩The lack of sustained buildup play and control in midfield is a consequence of the team's defensive weaknesses.

🔀Ten Hag's personnel choices, such as playing Scott McTominay and Anthony Martial, have hindered the team's ability to press and maintain a collective attacking threat.

🔄The decision to not play Raphael Varane at left center back, despite the lack of buildup play from the back, questions ten Hag's tactical approach.

🔒Manchester United's defensive vulnerabilities and lack of compactness can only be addressed through improved structure and player selection.

Q&A

What has been the main issue with Manchester United's defense?

Manchester United's high defensive line and gaps between defenders and attackers have led to an alarming number of shots conceded.

How has Eric ten Hag contributed to the team's struggles?

Ten Hag's personnel choices, such as playing Scott McTominay and Anthony Martial, have hindered the team's ability to press and maintain a collective attacking threat.

Why is the lack of sustained buildup play a problem for Manchester United?

The team's defensive weaknesses, including the lack of compactness, have resulted in a lack of control and sustained buildup play in midfield.

Why has ten Hag's decision to not play Raphael Varane at left center back been questioned?

The decision to not play Varane in a position that could potentially improve buildup play raises questions about ten Hag's tactical approach and player selection.

How can Manchester United address their defensive vulnerabilities?

Manchester United needs to improve their defensive structure, make better personnel choices, and work on maintaining compactness to address their defensive vulnerabilities.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction and purpose of the video to discuss the tactical problems faced by Manchester United.

02:00Analysis of the team's defensive weaknesses, including the high defensive line and gaps between defenders and attackers.

06:00Discussion of Eric ten Hag's personnel choices and their impact on the team's ability to press and maintain a collective attacking threat.

10:00Exploration of the lack of sustained buildup play and control in midfield due to the team's defensive vulnerabilities.

14:00Evaluation of ten Hag's decision to not play Raphael Varane at left center back and its implications for the team's tactical approach.

18:00Conclusion and recommendations for addressing Manchester United's defensive vulnerabilities through improved structure and player selection.