Squad analysis EPL 2018-19: Manchester United
Manchester United will be hoping to move on from their pre-season tour issues when they take on Leicester City in their opening encounter later this week. United are facing a host of issues and 'inactivity' in the transfer market added to their woes. The club had last won the EPL in 2012-13 and since then haven't quite delivered. Here we analyze the ManU squad.
United have strong core, but need wave of positivity
United have a good balance in their squad with majority of attack and mid-field options sorted. The defense line-up also has regular names. Further, they are looking to get a world class defender before Thursday's deadline. However, United are lacking positivity.
Analysis of attack in Man United ranks
Romelu Lukaku had a superb World Cup campaign and will lead the attack once again. Alexis Sanchez was lively in the pre-season tour and the club could get the best out of him this season. Marcus Rashford's support from the bench is crucial. Jesse Lingard and Juan Mata's places will be rotated at right wing. Anthony Martial is the only issue in attack.
Lukaku is United's go to man!
He scored 16 goals for United last term in the Premier League. In total his 27 goals for the club in 51 appearances showed he has fit in well under Jose. The manager trusts him a lot and Lukaku needs the supply to score goals.
Analysis of mid-fielders of United
With Michael Carrick retiring, the club went and signed Brazilian star Fred. United will likely go in with a three-man mid-field with Nemanja Matic, Paul Pogba and Fred comprising the main look. Matic is likely to miss the start of the campaign and that's where Ander Herrera will feature in defensive mid-field. Andreas Pereira, Scott McTominay and Marouane Fellaini provide an added depth.
Pogba is the star man in United mid-field
After two terms of inconsistency, Pogba needs to show his mettle this season. He was brilliant for France in their World Cup win in Russia and if he can replicate his form, Pogba could be a match winner. His camaraderie with Jose is a concern.
Analysis of defense
A world class signing will add the strength in central defense and a number of names are in contention. They have Chris Smalling, Eric Bailly, Victor Lindelof and Phil Jones in this position. Marcos Rojo and Matteo Darmian could be shipped out, following the exit of Daley Blind. Antonio Valencia, Ashley Young, Luke Shaw and new signing Diogo Dalot make up the full-back positions.
Bailly needs to step up
Eric Bailly needs to make this season tick at any cost and it's crucial that he stays injury free. Whoever is signed will form a partnership with Bailly. The African youngster needs to thwart off the challenge provided by other central defenders for a place.
Analysis of goal-keepers of Old Trafford club
David de Gea was outstanding, once again, last season on goal and contributed to the club's neat record in defense. He will lead the line with Sergio Romero providing back-up. United allowed Joel Pereira to go out on loan, and signed Lee Grant as their 3rd choice. The goal-keeping options at United look strong and will be busy this term.
