4 Ways Manchester United can lineup for 2018/19

3-5-2 Formation

Formation that needs each of the player, working his role to the best

Jose Mourinho, against some top attacking sides and season defining games (that sublime 2-0 win against Conte's 3-4-3 Chelsea in 2017 !!!), uses this 3-5-2 formation. Whenever he needs to break down the opponent's attack, neutralize them and launch fast counterattacks of his own, this formation is deployed. It provides three central midfielders who can outnumber or match the opponents, and width via the wing-backs. This formation can also be used in the absence of Romelu Lukaku upfront, when crosses and long balls can't do the trick. Expected to choose his three fit defenders (can vary from Bailly to Tuanzebe), with Matic protecting the defense. Matic can slot in between the central defenders during defense, providing extra cover and neutralizing the attack. Herrera or Fellaini will be expected to break down the attacks with their hard stance tackling, allowing Pogba and Lingard to run the show and provide Rashford with their pinpoint through balls, while Rashford runs behind the defences. Mourinho trusts Fellaini to use his physicality to win challenges and his aerial prowess is an added benefit during crosses and set pieces. Former POTY Herrera is a master passer with a great sense of tackling and can come every now and then in the box to score a goal or two. Pogba and Lingard are United's creative number 10s and are expected to provide the striker with balls as well as try an out-of-the-box stunner! Fred can put his hat in the ring for a place in the lineup, with his passing and vision, a valuable asset. While captain Valencia is a sure starter, expect Darmian or Shaw (in case they stay) to claim Young's place. Scott McTominay can be brought into the mix after having an impressive breakthrough season, wherein he showcased his imposing man marking skills. Martial can also be expected to start up front with this formation, with him running behind the defenses all the time, whereas Mata can be a good replacement for Lingard in the creative role. Mata is not pacy, but makes it up for it by his expert vision.

3-5-2 Formation - the most fluid attacking formation