5 changes Mourinho must make in the game against Real Madrid for United to succeed

#3 Give Andreas Pereira more freedom to attack

Manchester United v Liverpool - International Champions Cup 2018 — Pereira has gone from strength to strength in Pre-season

Pereira was burdened with defensive duties in the game against Liverpool, but the few times he broke free, his quality was there for everyone to see. He has had a brilliant pre-season so far and Mourinho will be counting on him for some part in the first team next season. He could be United’s secret weapon this season, he could be like a new signing who makes United better.

But he requires the support of his midfield partners to have a strong influence in the game. McTominay performed amicably last season, but has looked like a completely different player in pre-season so far. Mourinho would be wise not to pile more pressure on the youngster and should give him a rest.

If Chris Smalling is fit, Axel Tuanzebe could be brought in to provide steel in the midfield along with Ander Herrera and free up Pereira to play his natural game. An alternative could be new signing Fred, but a lot will depend on his fitness levels, since he was injured right before the start of the World Cup.

Matic’s injury has already opened up a space in the midfield for start of the season. Mourinho would be wise to start planning ahead and should concentrate on building his midfield around Andreas Pereira, at least for now.

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Edited by Ben Winfield