3 key things that have gone wrong for Manchester United in the 2018-2019 season

#2 Tactics

Mourinho's tactics have left a lot to be desired

Which is United’s best formation? Mourinho has tried 3-5-2 which was in the dismal 2-2 draw with Southampton. He has also tried 4-4-2 in the first game that he rested an underperforming Romelu Lukaku.

He has majorly played a 4-3-3 which is popular among top clubs. The only difference is the other top clubs are fighting for Champions League places and winning games at will. Regardless of the formation, Mourinho has failed at deploying the right players in those formations.

Nemanja Matic has the ability to be a commanding defensive midfield enforcer. However, even he gets fatigued. Matic needs a rest to rebuild and regain full fitness. Mourinho has also played him out of position several times this season. Mourinho quite simply does not know what works for United even if he sees it.

#1 Leadership

United lacks proper leadership on and off the field

When it comes to it, poor leadership has played a huge role in United’s downfall. Mourinho’s style of leadership has created an unfavourable atmosphere at Old Trafford. He publicly criticises his players and freezes out those who contradict him.

Paul Pogba, Anthony Martial and Eric Bailly have all faced his wrath this season. Martial was sparingly used at the start of the season. Pogba was stripped of the vice-captaincy and Bailly has been playing second fiddle even to holding midfielders for that centre back position.

Ed Woodward has also not exercised good leadership. He has not made the necessary managerial changes despite an obvious reason to do so. The team is not performing and Mourinho has had a huge hand in that.

United also desperately need a sporting director who will bridge the gap between the team and those high in the United hierarchy. The Red Devils do not have leaders on the field and the few that exist have been gagged by the manager.