Introduction
Manchester United are never out of the spotlight, and this season has only added more drama. From promising young players to tactical struggles and endless injuries, fans have been left wondering—are we seeing progress or more of the same?
Let’s take a deep dive into the Red Devils' season so far and what lies ahead.
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Tactics: Evolving Style or Tactical Confusion?
Erik ten Hag promised attacking football with high pressing and structured build-up play. But what we’ve seen this season is a team still figuring itself out.
- High Press in Bursts: The team presses high, but only in phases. The lack of coordination often opens up gaps, especially when facing well-drilled sides.
- Build-Up Problems: United struggle to build from the back. Without a natural ball-playing defender or a consistent goalkeeper, the team often loses shape.
- Formation Flexibility: Switching between a 4-2-3-1 and a 4-3-3 has given flexibility—but also created confusion. Players are unsure of roles, especially in midfield.
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Squad Performance: Bright Sparks and Flat Notes
Bruno Fernandes continues to be the team's engine, but he’s doing too much—creating, pressing, and often dropping deep.
- Kobbie Mainoo – The 18-year-old has been a standout. Calm, composed, and always aware, he’s added control to the midfield.
- Alejandro Garnacho – A livewire down the flank. He’s quick, direct, and not afraid to take on defenders. His decision-making still needs polish.
- Marcus Rashford – He’s had a tough campaign. Confidence looks low, and his impact in games has declined sharply.
- Rasmus Højlund – Still finding his feet in the Premier League. Good work ethic and movement, but he’s starved of service.
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Injury Woes: The Hidden Battle
It’s hard to build consistency when your squad is constantly changing. United’s injury list has been one of the longest in the league.
- Martínez, Varane, Shaw – All out for significant spells, disrupting the back line.
- Mount, Casemiro – Their absence left United short of experience and balance in midfield.
By the Numbers: A Mid-Table Feel
Here are some key stats as of April 2025:
- Goals Scored (PL): 47
- Goals Conceded: 44
- Clean Sheets: 8
- Average Possession: ~50%
- League Position: 6th
These numbers show a team that’s neither strong defensively nor dominant going forward. They’re solid—but not yet elite.
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Who Steps Up?
Bruno leads by example, but when the team goes a goal down, United still lack vocal leaders who can rally the squad. Mentality in big games remains a concern—they tend to fade under pressure.
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What Needs to Change?
To take the next step, United must address key areas:
- Defensive Stability: A reliable CB partner for Martínez is essential.
- Midfield Depth: A defensive midfielder with energy and tactical discipline is a must.
- Wide Creativity: Another attacker who can create and score consistently.
- Clear Tactical Identity: The squad needs to fully buy into the system and execute it confidently.
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Real Progress or Delayed Expectations?
This isn’t the worst version of Manchester United we’ve seen—but it’s still far from the best. The squad has talent. The manager has vision. But unless there’s consistency in tactics, squad fitness, and recruitment, the gap to City, Arsenal, and Liverpool will only widen.
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What’s your take on Man Utd’s season? Share your opinions in the comments and don’t forget to follow [SOCCERROW] for more weekly football breakdowns.