Manchester United lose to Brighton Hove & Albion (2-1)
Here are my thoughts on the game.
Here are some issues that I believe Erik ten Hag must fix after United’s recent loss against Brighton Hove & Albion (2-1).
Match overview
Despite striking first in the 60th minute from a wonder goal from Amad Diallo, United couldn’t hold its lead. A low-cross goal from Danny Welbeck levelled the score for the Seagulls (1-1) during the 32nd minute.
United forward Alejandro Garnacho would score in the second half, but it would be ruled out as an off-side goal because United forward Joshua Zirkzee’s knee hit the ball. United’s day would get worse when Joao Pedro scored a 95th-minute back-post goal giving Brighton the win.
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Lack of a striker
Erik ten Hag set up his team in a false nine formation for the match. A false nine means a more central attacking midfielder replaces the striker in the team.
United played with two number 10s—Mason Mount and Red Devils captain Bruno Fernandes. Mount had a good game. He seemed to go for much-needed tackles and his crosses in the box, something very new to see as a United fan. Fernandes had a couple of good chances to score, but he couldn’t convert them into goals.
Despite both 10s having a good game, I felt the presence of not having a striker in the match seriously caused an issue for the squad. There were numerous times when Amad and Marcus Rashford looked confused. It showed how important a striker was needed for United. United’s new signing Zirkzee must start regularly to stop this issue. A striker will give the wingers more confidence in crossing the ball into the box. Otherwise, it’s going to be a very long season this year.
De Ligt must start
I was annoyed to see United playing a low block. United played overly defensively and didn’t have control during parts of the match. Playing Matthijs De Ligt instead of Harry Maguire stops this problem. Maguire cannot play a high line and is suitable for a low-block side. De Ligt can do this task more easily than the English defender. De Ligt has played with numerous sides who play a high line and can chase pacey forwards.
A midfield reshuffle
Casemiro's physical limitations have become more evident, making it challenging for him to consistently hold the defensive line. This has increased the burden on Kobbie Mainoo, who now has to cover more ground.
Ten Hag must rely on new signing Manuel Ugarte this season to help United. The Uruguayan midfielder has moved from Paris-Saint Germain for a deal worth around €50m.
Ugarte’s defensive work rate and ability to break up opposition attacks would help United maintain balance and counter threats this season. Integrating him into the midfield could be key to United’s success in the Premier League.
Three critical issues need addressing for United’s upcoming game against Liverpool:
Start De Ligt: Relying on Maguire frequently is risky. De Ligt should start to provide a more solid defensive presence.
Include Zirkzee: Without Zirkzee, United’s attacking threat will be minimal. He must play to ensure we pose a danger in front of the goal.
Rely on Ugarte: With Casemiro struggling to maintain the defensive line due to age, Ugarte, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain for around €50m, should be key in the midfield. Ugarte’s presence will ease the pressure on Mainoo, who otherwise would need to cover too much ground.
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