Manchester United (2014-15) - seeing a rebirth

Van Gaal alongside Giggs in the Old Trafford dugout.

Manchester United in the past

Over the past two decades, Manchester United has embodied a strong-attacking, opposition-demolishing football. This grew as United’s philosophy over the years. It included quick-paced, swift football with team work being a vital part. This has been the hallmark of success over the years at Old Trafford. In every adverse situation, somebody or the other would stand up and deliver.

Be it the celebrated “Fergie time” winner against Manchester City (which every United fan and rival would memorize) or the famous Champions League comeback against Bayern, in all ways it imprinted United’s never say never attitude. I feel this season is no different than this.

Midfield predicament

For quite some seasons, United fans have craved for a creative midfielder in the team. As and when star midfielders were linked with United during transfer windows (Sneijder and co), fans wanted all of them very badly.

All of this happened when the veterans such as Scholes and Giggs were about to hang their boots and a world class player such as Ronaldo, Golden Boot winner with United, had left earlier.

Thankfully, Van Gaal took note of this and has made amends. Now, we have the flamboyant Di Maria and ingenious Mata, creating chances and scoring goals.These two stars combining well with the gifted Ander Herera and the tactically-sound Blind, means United can now control the game throughout the 90 mins. No need to mention the big Belgian who can play multiple positions.

Additionally, the return of Carrick and Fletcher from injuries is a huge morale booster. These two veterans could prove pivotal for new players at the club, to gel into United’s philosophy and style of play. Even though I accept that this is a bit late for midfield predicament to be addressed, its better late than never.

United’s midfield is now decorated with some of the best in business. I feel this blend of players has the potential to be greats which is evident from their current feats such as the one against QPR. Van Gaal had referred to this as a new start to the season.

Juan Mata, Herera, Di Maria & Blind celebrating Manchester United’s fourth goal against QPR

Defensive concern

Sometimes, just when we think that we are out of a quandary, we are left facing another. Delay taken to slot in midfielders has created a new hitch defensively. It was with the departure of Vidic and Ferdinand; the latest United’s legend to leave the club.

This has left immense pressure on the young shoulders of players like Jones, Smalling, Evans, Rojo and Shaw. It is interesting to notice that the average age of United’s first team in Defense department is less than 25, which speaks volumes of their potential and the faith manager has in them. This means they have been assigned a tremendous task to fill the shoes of great responsibility.

In latest game against Hull, United displayed a solid partnership at the back between Rojo and Smalling, giving some respite after a few defensive blunders in initial games. I think that the young United defence has the calibre would slowly and steadily mature to challenge any opposition. However, before that, there is a lot to learn, improve and execute for these young lads.

Winds of changes at Old Trafford

In recent past, Red Devils faithful have seen multiple changes at Old Trafford including the Manager, the coaching staff & the players. The most important transformation was the man in charge. I think backing Moyes as the chosen one was one of the few mistakes that the gaffer made, though, the man in charge now, Louis Van Gaal, is no stranger to such adverse situations and has overcome them with flying colours in the past.

Initially, there were a few hiccups in the process, which is fine, as we know that success is not achieved in a day, but as the season progressed watching performances that the team has put in against top clubs like Chelsea and City gives a hint of the team’s potential and tremendous encouragement to the fans.

Taking all these factors into consideration, I feel that the whole Team is undergoing a major overhaul. As a result some time should be granted to the players to groom themselves and fit into Van Gaals style of play. Given that everything falls into place, I am confident that its not too late before United is back atop the “f#$*%ng” perch (as mentioned by Sir Alex).

Manchester United’s best performance of the season so far.