Top 5 holding midfielders of 2017/18 season

#3 Nemanja Matic

Mourinho managed to secure the signatures of Matic from rivals Chelsea

The fact that Manchester United paid £40 million for a 29-year-old, Nemanja Matic underlines the importance of the player. United currently boast the best defensive record in the league and Matic has been a key to the same.

The Red Devils needed a replacement for Michael Carrick instantly in 2017 and Matic took the job and has not let his boss down.

The Serbian's physicality and composure on the ball make him a vital player in the team. The player has an average pass length of 18 metres and aerial duels winning rate of 50% approximately in the league this season.

Matic in his first season with Red Devils has been a consistent performer. He has already made 36 appearances for the club this season, proving his worth as a fit and available man.

His brilliant hold-up of the ball adds to his importance in Jose Mourinho's team. In Matic, United have a player they can depend on heavily.