How and why Mourinho should experiment with a flat 4-4-2 formation at Manchester United

b) The central midfielders

The midfield duo of Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba will be unstoppable

At the centre, Jose can field a two-man midfield pivot in Nemanja Matic and Paul Pogba. While Matic would play between the lines and thwart any possible attacks from the opposition, Pogba would dominate the game by going ahead.

Pogba’s passing is exemplary and this formation will allow him to play in a higher position on the pitch too. With extra defensive cover, he would be relieved of his defensive duties and can be a threatening figure going higher up the pitch.

Meanwhile, Matic can regularly make offensive moves, and his presence along with Mata by his side gives the side a greater assurance in defence.

The Serbian can control the tempo of the game with his assured passing and composure on the ball. This two-man midfield pivot is quite similar to the Michael Carrick-Paul Scholes duo, that United played in the second half of the last decade.

Pogba's passing and vision are often compared to that of Paul Scholes'. The emergence of Scott McTomminay has also added more options in the middle of the park and this can allow Jose to give some much-needed rest to Matic too.

Ander Herrera can be a crucial backup figure in the midfield as the Spaniard's bite, determination and ability to drive the team ahead are qualities that Jose loves to have in his midfielders.