Strengths:
Firepower - A front three that consists of 2 20 goal a season strikers and one of the best playmakers in Europe is scary enough, but should Vidal sign, which looks likely, he will add a few goals from midfield too. Man United's goalscoring prowess is absurd.
Energy - In signing Herrera, Van Gaal has added a lot of energy to a stale and stagnant United team. Not only that, but Shaw's pace and dynamism will be key, as will Cuadrado's should he sign, which, again, looks likely. With a younger defence than last season too, United should be a more pacey and energetic side.
Depth - Man United don't have loads of depth, but compared to most teams they have some fantastic back-up players. Hernandez, Valencia and Kagawa are among the best subs in the league, for example. Whether or not it's quite the level of depth required for a title challenge we shall see.
Weaknesses:
Central Defence - Currently United have a very weak defence. They have 3 recognised senior centre-backs and none of them are really good enough for a title challenging team. Jones and Smalling are decent players but not top level players.
Signings:
Ander Herrera - Energetic, skilful and dynamic, Herrera should be exactly the player that United missed so dearly last season. He wasn't the cheapest buy they could have made, but when money is no object like it is for United, then that's irrelevant and Herrera should be a perfect signing.
Luke Shaw - Contrary to popular opinion, I think Shaw was a fantastic signing, even for a huge fee. United may not have to buy a left-back for the next 10-15 years. Shaw is a wonderful player on the ball but still strong defensively and is almost certain to be top drawer left back.
(Arturo Vidal) - Should this deal go through, United will be a force to be reckoned with. Vidal is a world-class midfielder who can do everything and anything that is needed of him. He's fast, strong, energetic, can score goals, create goals and defend. The ultimate footballer. Would be an incredible signing.
(Juan Cuadrado) - Another quality signing if completed, Cuadrado is an exciting player. Extremely skilful and creative, Cuadrado would add a threat out wide that they desperately need. Steep price, but again United should not care about that.
Who They Should Sign:
A Centre-Back or two - United need some players at centre-back desperately, and with rumours of Roma defender Mehdi Benatia being on Van Gaal's shortlist it seems that United are trying to address this. 2 top class centre-backs would make United's squad ready to challenge for honours.
Final Thoughts:
United's squad is significantly better than it was last year and with the intimidation factor seemingly coming back with Van Gaal's appointment, everything is looking up for United fans. The additions of Shaw and Herrera have really bolstered the squad and Vidal and Cuadrado would make them a very scary proposition.
United will be a lot more difficult to beat this season than last season which isn't too much of a surprise, but it should make them a top 4 team. Man City and Chelsea look stronger at present, but United can make a challenge with a few acquisitions.
Van Gaal's appointment should be a fantastic fit for United, and don't be surprised if Van Gaal wins a trophy in his first season. This should be a good season for United fans.
No comments:
Post a Comment