Ian Wright says Fulham were clearly targeting £42m Man United player on Saturday
In a recent discussion, pundit Ian Wright delved into an observation he made during Fulham’s victory over Manchester United last Saturday. The weekend proved to be frustrating for Erik ten Hag as his team’s momentum was abruptly halted. The disappointment was palpable even before the game began, with Rasmus Hojlund sidelined due to injury. Hojlund had been emblematic of United’s recent positive resurgence, making his absence keenly felt on the field.
The absence of Hojlund significantly weakened United’s lineup, forcing Marcus Rashford into a central role, where he has struggled to perform at his best. Despite this setback, ten Hag had few alternatives available to him for the weekend’s match. Reflecting on the game during the ‘Wrighty’s House’ podcast, Ian Wright noted that Fulham approached the match with a clear strategy. Marco Silva’s side, characterized by pragmatism and organization, posed a formidable challenge for United at that juncture.
Wright observed that Fulham appeared to have singled out United’s center-back, Raphael Varane, as a key target. They sought to disrupt his play and limit his influence on the game. Varane, who has been the subject of transfer speculation, may find his future at the club uncertain, especially if such performances persist. The absence of a player like Lisandro Martinez, known for his pivotal role in defense, further exacerbated United’s vulnerabilities.
Had Varane been able to link up with Martinez, as he often does with his United teammate, Fulham’s tactics might not have been as effective. Nevertheless, the match highlighted the need for United to address their defensive shortcomings. Looking ahead, it seems evident that changes may be necessary, with one pundit suggesting that the club should consider offloading a different player in the upcoming summer transfer window.
