Defenders
Left Back: Luke Shaw
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It’s now or never for the talented full-back. Luke Shaw’s time at the club has been tumultuous at best. After an impressive start to life at Old Trafford, a horrific double leg break ruled out the world’s most expensive left-back for an entire season. His return to competitive football has been average.
A combination of poor fitness and mediocre performances saw him being dropped to the bench on many occasions last season. The talent is there. However, consistency has been well below-par.
Still 21-years-old, Luke Shaw has ample time to get his career back on track. With the club’s pursuit for a new left-back on hold, this may well and truly be Shaw’s last chance to prove his worth.
Center Backs: Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof
Eric Bailly hit the ground running and impressed everyone in his first season in England. The Ivorian international was rock solid at the back and was an imposing presence at the heart of United’s defence. A solid tackler, Bailly recovered possession a record 172 times last term.
A ball-playing centre-half, the 23-year-old is often seen delivering fifty-yard diagonal balls from his own half.
His form did tail away towards the end of the season due to injuries and fatigue. However, with the arrival of Victor Lindelof, the two young guns could stabilise the ship for years to come. Speaking of the new arrival…
Swedish international Victor Lindelof signed for the club just a few days ago. A staggering £30.7 million move for the 22-year-old with a four-year contract.
Having kept 20 clean sheets in 32 appearances, Lindelof was the club’s (Benfica) bedrock along with club captain Luisao. With the likes of Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Daley Blind struggling last season, the Swede’s presence will help solidify things at the back and start a new partnership for many years to come.
Right Back: Antonio Valencia
31-year-old Antonio Valencia was one of the club’s standout performers last season. Having signed a new two-year deal, the Ecuador captain is a guaranteed starter under Jose Mourinho. The effervescent midfielder hit top gear while playing out of position (right-back) and found tremendous success.
With four assists and an average of 1.3 key passes-per-game in 44 appearances, Valencia has been an offensive asset for the Portuguese manager. His defensive contribution has been the major positive as he averaged a club-high 2.4 tackles per game.
Capable of donning the captain’s armband, the former Wigan Athletic winger has become an integral part of the club’s success this past season.
