Manchester United's "fluid four" system explained and why it works wonders against attacking sides

#3 The counter-attack

Possession is the number one priority for teams like Manchester City or Spurs. Their whole game plan is based on controlling the ball and dictating the pace of play. As a result, sides like these are infamous for their high pressing. Whether it be Guardiola's City or Pochettino's Spurs, these sides are renowned for their work off the ball and their high pressing.

As a consequence of the high press, these teams leave huge gaps between the goalkeeper and the backline, and United have learned to exploit that gap incredibly well.

As soon as United win possession back, the ball is launched forward with urgency, whether it be a long ball aimed at the tall figure of Lukaku or a pinpoint diagonal played by Pogba to either flank, the players move forward with immense pace and induce a state of panic amongst the opposition defenders.