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

#2 The front three

On paper, while playing the 4-3-3, Alexis Sanchez and Jesse Lingard line up on the flanks for Manchester United, but in reality the two play more of a number 8 or an inside forward role. The two "wingers" rarely hug the touchline, in fact, they play very narrowly allowing the fullbacks to dart forward and provide the width for United.

This narrow positioning of Sanchez and Lingard allows the United front three to effortlessly exchange roles, leaving their markers in two minds. Lukaku, Sanchez and Lingard constantly press into either corner of the pitch and constantly exchange their positions in order to deceive the defenders.