4-2-3-1: Potential United XI with De Ligt, Ugarte and Zirkzee included, will be PL powerhouse – We’re surely winning the league title this season
Over the past few days, Manchester United have been remarkably active in the transfer market, showcasing a flurry of movements and negotiations. This surge in activity followed the formal appointment of Dan Ashworth as the new sporting director, after a compensation agreement was reached with Newcastle United. Additionally, a significant recruitment meeting was held on Monday, catalyzing United’s subsequent actions.
Notably, negotiations for Dutch talents Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt are progressing and appear to be nearing finalization. In a parallel development, Manchester United have reportedly submitted a bid for Paris Saint-Germain’s Manuel Ugarte. The Uruguayan midfielder has already expressed his willingness to join the Red Devils. However, their second offer for Jarrad Branthwaite was turned down by Everton, who are firm on their £70 million valuation.
Given the current trajectory of these potential acquisitions, Zirkzee, De Ligt, and Ugarte are the most likely to join Manchester United. Their integration into the team prompts intriguing considerations about the potential starting lineup under manager Erik ten Hag.
In the goalkeeping department, Manchester United have recently recruited Jelle ten Rouwelaar, an expert in ball-playing goalkeepers. This strategic hire solidifies Andre Onana’s position as the first-choice goalkeeper, emphasizing his proficiency with the ball at his feet.
In defense, Lisandro Martinez is expected to be the primary center-back, with the newly signed De Ligt likely replacing Raphael Varane. De Ligt’s ball-handling skills, familiarity with Ten Hag’s style, and previous experience playing with Onana make him an ideal fit. His physicality and aerial dominance would address a current deficiency in United’s defense.
Diogo Dalot, who was voted Players’ Player of the Year, will likely return to his preferred right-back position, while a fully fit Luke Shaw will reclaim his spot at left-back. This defensive lineup, along with the goalkeeper, will be adept at playing out from the back, contributing to a more confident and composed defensive unit.
In midfield, Manuel Ugarte is anticipated to take over the role of the most defensive midfielder from Casemiro. At 23, Ugarte brings a youthful vigor and energy that the aging Brazilian lacks, as demonstrated in his performances for Uruguay in Copa America. Ugarte’s pressing ability and proficiency in intercepting passing lanes will be crucial in thwarting counter-attacks and shielding the back four.
The addition of Ugarte will also free up creative midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes to focus more on their offensive contributions. Mainoo, a promising 19-year-old Englishman, excels in making incisive passes and skillful forward runs. Bruno Fernandes, renowned for his attacking prowess, will benefit from the support of Ugarte and Mainoo, allowing him to operate closer to the goal where he is most effective.
The attacking lineup is expected to feature Alejandro Garnacho, who aims to continue his impressive progress and target 15 goals across all competitions next season. Marcus Rashford, despite a challenging previous season, is likely to maintain his role on the left wing. Ten Hag, along with new coaches Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake, will work to rejuvenate Rashford’s form.
The role of the primary striker remains uncertain. Rasmus Hojlund, last season’s top scorer, may share responsibilities with Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutch forward’s tactical flexibility and ability to drop deep and act as a playmaker could be instrumental. This role would enable Fernandes to advance beyond him and involve Rashford and Garnacho more effectively in the attack.
Zirkzee’s attributes, including his height, physical strength, and pressing ability, will be valuable assets for United. His spatial awareness and skill in creating separation from defenders, as well as his proficiency in quick combinations under pressure, make him a promising addition to the squad.
With these potential signings and coaching changes, Erik ten Hag can finally implement a ball retention system akin to the one he successfully employed at Ajax. This shift would transform Manchester United into a modern, dynamic, and attacking side, poised for success in the upcoming season.
