Manchester United’s ’12 – ’13 formation – The tough fixtures

Having already taken a look at the potential Manchester United formation for the home/easy fixtures for this season, let us move on to the possible formations for the tough European games, and matches against tough Premier League opponents, which are strong attacking sides.

It wasn’t a night to remember for United in their season-opener, and the lack of penetration would be a matter of concern for the manager. Only a handful of clear-cut opportunities throughout the match indicated that United were probably over-playing the ball around the edge of the box, and lacked a direct approach. This is not in any way to take credit away from Everton, for United defended quite well under sustained spells of pressure, with perhaps the now obvious exception of Patrice Evra. More importantly, however, one wonders what fate awaits United in Europe this year, if they fail to score, or even create more opportunities.

Last year, United struggled in Europe, being run ragged by Benfica and Basel, to get dumped from Europe’s elite competition. They seemed on their way to challenge strongly for the Europa, before being unceremoniously dumped out by Llorente and co. The problem last time around was defence, and while Vidic has returned this time around, there are other injury problems. However, with the acquisition of Kagawa, and van Persie, scoring goals shouldn’t be a problem, at least on paper. So, assuming injuries do not play much of a part, how exactly could United line up this season to find the right balance between attack and defence?

Goalkeeper:

With some solid performances in the second half of last season, De Gea is definitely the front-runner for this spot. While Lindegaard might well be utilised in case an easy fixture turns up in the group stages, De Gea put up a stellar performance in the first game of the season, and will definitely be the first choice if he keeps that up.

A problem for both of United’s ‘keepers, however, has been making their presence felt in the box for set-pieces, as clearly demonstrated on a fair number of occasions. De Gea’s upper body strength could make all the difference between United winning those tough away fixtures in Europe, or falling further from grace in Europe.

Defence:

The heart of defence, with Rio Ferdinand expected back in four weeks, should see him line up alongside Vidic. Ferdinand has plenty of experience, and should help the back-line get organised, while Vidic, the club captain, needs no introduction.

If, however, Ferdinand’s problems do continue, we might see Smalling or Jones deployed in his place, once they are fully recovered. Jones was one of the players who was found slightly wanting on the European campaigns last season, and he will be eager to make amends. Smalling, on the other hand, is dominant in the air, and could provide excellent cover for De Gea, especially from set-pieces. Michael Carrick’s presence in defence, no matter how good he is with the ball at his feet, leaves United vulnerable to aerial attacks, and Ferguson will be hoping to have his defenders available for selection immediately.

At left-back, Patrice Evra might well be playing his last season as first-choice for United. A continuation of his woeful performances from last season against Everton on Monday night, coinciding with United’s acquisition of Dutch left-back Alexander Buttner could well see Evra lose his place in the squad, if he continues to shirk his defensive duties. At the moment, however, Evra still has the experience, and the backing of the manager, and should remain in the first XI.

At right-back, where Antonio Valencia was deployed against Everton, we should see the ever-maturing Rafael fit into the squad. While Valencia did an admirable job for a winger playing out of position, his ability to go beyond opposition defenders was sorely missed by United. This will probably see him reinstated on the right wing, making space for the Brazilian to prove his worth.

Midfield:

On the right wing, as already mentioned, Valencia should cement his spot, especially after his performances last season, and thus leave Nani and Young to fight it out for the left wing role. Valencia’s pace, and smart decision making, combined with his dangerous crossing will create the opportunities that seem to be few and far for United.

On the left wing, it is hard to decide whom to place, simply because Nani is being his former inconsistent self. While Ashley Young is a good player, with great crossing skills, as well as the ability to cut-in and take a shot, there is little doubt that an in-form Nani would always beat him to the spot. Thus, depending on Nani’s form, we could see either the Portugese or the English man deployed.

In central mid-field, with a view towards providing cover for the back four, we could see Rooney combine with Cleverley. It is a role that Rooney played on quite a few occasions last season, and was quoted saying that he enjoyed it the most. With an engine like his, which can run at full-speed for the whole ninety minutes, and great long-range passing skills, Rooney might well be United’s holding midfielder for the tough games. Cleverley, on the other hand, is great at playing the little one-two’s and creating space for himself. This could well be an unconventional yet complementary pairing that works well for the team.

Alternately, we could see Scholes and Rooney deployed in the centre of midfield, with Scholes playing as the holding midfielder. While Rooney can track back from his position when required, he can also make those impeccably timed forward runs, safe in the knowledge that Scholes is on defensive duty. The range of Scholesy’s passing needs no retelling, and would definitely supplement United’s chances of scoring.

Attack:

In attack, it could well be the two new signings combining, to try and unlock tough defences. Kagawa, used to creating chances and scoring prolifically for Dortmund, has openly stated that his favoured position is ‘in the hole’, between midfield and striker. If his sublime passing and through-balls are anything to go by, this is exactly the spot that he will occupy, hoping to create plenty of chances, and hopefully, score some himself.

In front of Kagawa, playing as the lone front-man, should be Robin van Persie. At Arsenal, RvP was the focal point of the Arsenal attack, and thrived under those conditions. Here, with him recreating that role, United might well find goals easier to come by, and make good progress in Europe. In the 20 minutes or so that he played against Everton, van Persie showed some good touches, even creating a good chance, but will no doubt prefer playing in the forward-line, rather than on the wings. Arsene Wenger, a remarkable tactician, has often stated that RvP plays his best when the attack is focused with him at its head, and Ferguson, no matter how good himself, would certainly have taken note.

The only alternate lone front-man would probably be Javier Hernandez, as the Mexican’s speed, and clinical finishing have undone quite a few defenders. He will also be eager to get some first team action, with his spot probably occupied by van Persie for the league games, and will be eager to prove his worth. Welbeck, if he plays, is more likely to be deployed on the wing, than as a lone striker. The English international is good with the ball at his feet, but perhaps lacks experience to be leading United’s attack in Europe.