Diving bug at Old Trafford

Diving is in vogue for the Red Devils. And it’s all down to a few players. Man United have had a clean squad for a while. Yes, they do get a lot of debatable decisions. It’s equally clear that a few players take the easy way out at times. But the entire squad is not culpable. Neither is the club, nor the manager. When a player dives, it’s usually down to the split second decision made by the player himself. I don’t believe Manchester United have been successful for all these years by simply bribing referees or buying the league. That doesn’t seem plausible. Even for a conspiracy theory, that is way out of proportion.

No, it’s usually down to the individuals. It’s a way of conning the referee. Every club has such players, and although it is hard to imagine, some club legends or fan-favourites dive occasionally. But that is a topic for another day.

For Manchester United, Ashley Young takes the easy way out from time to time with clever and selective diving for maximum damage. It’s a morally questionable tactic, but it works. A late penalty, team wins! Points for the club, and it will all be forgiven. The fans play their part as well, with selective memory of such events. “It’s ok, once in a while. We are never lucky. Everyone does it”.

If you haven’t yet scrolled down to the comments section to deliver a hate message, kudos!

Nani is another player in the same category, although I can’t recall any penalty-box dives by him in the past few months. Who knows, there maybe some hope for him after-all. There is a reason a lot of rival fans (and United fans) hate him. It’s because of his antics and making a big deal out of a nothing tackle. He is a decent footballer but a poor decision-maker, and his shenanigans usually stink up the place.

Antonio Valencia is a different player altogether. He is of pure footballing breed, and a pure attacker. Uncomplicated, direct, predictable – yet effective and often match-winning. Antonio Valencia is not someone you usually associate with any stigma or controversy. He does his job, rarely smiles and goes away. I would like to think a lot of rival fans admire him too, even if they hate the team he plays for.

It’s a shame that the newest No.7 at Old Trafford dived to win a penalty at Anfield on Sunday. He is better than that. The man is power personified. He is already stronger and faster than most of the opponents he faces. Leading up to the penalty, the run to steal the ball from the half-line was the stuff of dreams. And then he went down under no pressure. Perhaps he felt he had taken an extra touch and would not be able to pass the ball. A split-second decision, and in this case, detrimental to the overall viewing experience.

It ruins a great game of football. Instead of a thrilling goal and wild celebrations, we get to see arguments, cards, boos and general chaos. And all because of a player’s decision in that moment. It’s easy to accept it and move on, but I sincerely hope this was a one-off. Why dive when you have the ball at your feet?

Shake off that bug Mr. Valencia. It doesn’t suit you.