1. Transitions
Erik ten Hag has previously stated, “We want to be the best transition team in the world. We want to surprise.”
By this, he meant his aim is to attack swiftly after regaining possession, capitalising on his forwards’ strengths to break quickly against opposition defenses.
Key to this plan is the pace and directness of Marcus Rashford, paired with the creative abilities of Bruno Fernandes.
In the 2022/23 season, Manchester United scored the most goals from transitions in the league.
Although that number has slightly dipped, partly due to Rashford’s drop in form, attacking transitions remain United’s primary source of chance creation.
However, their defensive transitions have become a growing concern for ten Hag.
In the 2023/24 season, United faced the fifth-highest number of shots on their goal in the league, an unsustainable figure for a team aiming for a top-four finish.
Much of this is due to significant gaps in midfield, with some claiming Casemiro has ‘lost his legs’.
While United are conceding fewer shots this season, the goal they allowed against FC Twente has reignited concerns about their vulnerability during transitions.
Recognising this issue, ten Hag brought in Manuel Ugarte over the summer but it seems the problem extends beyond personnel.
When Eriksen or Mainoo play in midfield, the other midfielder is forced to cover more ground, as neither is known for their defensive coverage.
These gaps are often too large for one player to manage alone.
While ten Hag hopes Ugarte can help close these gaps, he will undoubtedly be seeking additional midfield solutions for upcoming matches.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
