Preseason 2022/23 Analysis

Preseason

Last season towards the end was a disappointment. I think most of Manchester United supporters would have had doubts in the mind regarding the the future of the club as Ralf Rangnick tenure ended. The big names like Cavani, Matic, Matta, Pogba and Lingard leaving the club or contracts not getting renewed put pressure on the new Gaffer. 

Erick Ten Hag ( Gaffer), came in and for a first time and has set the rules of engagement with the players right from the onset. His vision is clear and the style that he wants the players to play is very evident in the training routines. The players have come out and applauded the intensity and his clarity how he wants the team to play.  

In my opinion the club have backed the Gaffer in the transfer market by purcahsing the players that he wants and would suite his style of play. The key to note here is Gaffer has gone for the players that he knows (Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia, Chris Ericksen, and in pursuit of Frenkie de Jong) and trust's and not gone for the big names. This is important in leadership style "Controlling the Variables", this is a new place for the Gaffer and only control he has is on the backroom staff and the players that he is bringing to suite his style and implement his philosophy . My understanding is new players will be vital in the transition to possession based football style of play than the counter attacking football we are used to from united since Jose and Olie. 

The preseason results have been very promising, United won the first three games and the result to highlight was the 4-0 victory over Liverpool. It can be argued that Liverpool did not have the strongest side but still to beat the team that was 34 points ahead of us was a big statement. 

Preseason was also an opportunity for Gaffer to take a good look and the youngsters from the academy. Number of the academy player impressed in the preseason the likes of Zidane Iqbal, James Garner and Alejandro Garnacho. I am sure that Gaffer must be thinking of naming a few in the first team to put pressure on likes of Martial, McTominay and Rashford.

Till now the Gaffer has shown that he can keep the squad together and motivated. Gaffer's biggest test will come as Ronaldo saga unfolds. Till now he has been positive and transparent on the conversations that he has had with Ronaldo, but only time will tell if he can enforce the same level of discipline on Ronaldo or not. If Rolnado leaves United for another club that might help the Gaffer to control the team better. 

I still think we are short on the Central Defensive Midfielder (CDM) Position. This has been a big weakness for us over the years. Another area to strengthen is the the forward line, if Ronaldo leaves we should try to get a forward that can make an impact. Martial has shown promise and looks hungry for success, but only time will tell if he could get us 20+ goals this season.

Results 

Manchester United 3-1 Crystal Palace

Manchester United 4-0 Liverpool

Melbourne Victory 1-4 Manchester United

Manchester United 2-2 Aston Villa

Atletico Madrid 1-0 Manchester United

Manchester United 1-1 Rayo Vallecano