Manchester United will always be a club that is under the microscope. In addition to being one of the most high-profile clubs in the world, they are managed by the controversial and charismatic manager, Jose Mourinho – A man who never shies away from making a bold statement, whether in the press or behind the scenes with his mind games.
When you play under Jose Mourinho, you must try your best to fall into his good books or to avoid falling out with him. Just ask Iker Casillas who had to face the wrath of the Portuguese tactician during his time at Real Madrid. Henrikh Mkhitaryan, too, was in danger of falling out with Mourinho at the beginning of the 2016-17 season, even before his career even started.
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However, the unassuming Armenian has slowly fought his way back into the United squad and has looked indispensable over the past couple of weeks. With United stuttering to draw after draw in the league, Mkhitaryan has been one shining beacon and here are five reasons as to why he could become United’s saviour:
#1 His passing is world-class
The pace of the Premier League is such that one cannot afford to have too many touches on the ball. That isn’t something that will deter Mkhitaryan though. The featherweight winger is constantly looking to pass the ball to the nearest teammate and keep the speed of the attack going.
His passes are wonderful to watch and he possesses the killer pass that was best exhibited during United’s 4-1 demolition of West Ham in the EFL. His 85% pass accuracy is very good for an attacking player and he rarely gives away possession – another big skill required for an attack-minded player.
#2 Versatile in attack
One thing about Mourinho’s teams is that they possess a certain fluidity that helps in quickly transitioning from defence into attack. Mkhitaryan could play a key role in the course of the season with his brilliant technical brain. Though his natural position is the right of midfield, he has the ability to shift to CAM or LM and attack based on what the team needs.
Over the course of the season, with injuries taking a toll on other players, Mkhitaryan will have to step up and his versatility could be his biggest boon yet.
#3 Slick dribbling and movement
Due to his light frame and low centre of gravity, Mkhitaryan is a wonderful dribbler of the ball and rarely does he end up giving it away. Though no Messi, he is of a similar mould where he uses his strength and agility to good use.
Mourinho likes to set up direct attacks that depend on counters and this is where Mkhitaryan could be of use. With the likes of Zlatan and Martial playing up front, Mkhitaryan’s movement could open up spaces and cause defenders a lot of problems.
#4 Proven goalscorer
Though he is yet to get on the goal sheet this season, Mkhitaryan is a proven goalscorer – best epitomised by his 23 goals to go with an astonishing 26 assists. Now that he is starting to find his feet in English football, it won’t be long before the goals start coming – and how United need them.
He averages at the moment, 1.3 shots on target in the Premier league and 3 in the Europa League. As the season wears on, signs are showing that these numbers will increase and that is all United need.
#5 Temperament to succeed at the highest level
A lot has been spoken about Mkhitaryan’s personality and temperament. In a recent interview with Sky, Mkhitaryan spoke about how he had to develop despite being a shy person by nature. All his coaches have only paid tribute to his temperament in glowing words and if Mourinho moulds him using his exceptional man-management skill, Mkhitaryan could develop into the world-beater everyone thinks he is capable of being.
Already popular with the fans for his shy and down-to-earth nature, Mkhitaryan has everything in him to perform at the Theatre of Dreams and charm his way into the hearts of many a United fan.
With United stuttering, Mkhitaryan could be the one who could help them get their season back on track. Only time will tell whether the shy Armenian makes a lasting impact at Old Trafford or leaves as another dud in United’s storied history.
The player has constantly been seen as a real fighter and someone who can thrive when deployed in the right position, surrounded by players who complement his style. The red half of Manchester have a real uphill task ahead of them and will be depending on their attacking force to nullify the goals conceded by their defence and Mkhitaryan will be one of those players on whom the onus will be on to deliver.
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