Right off the bat, McTominay was exploiting this. If McTominay, a defensive midfielder, is going to make a run into the box, you know a midfielder is going to track that run, and therefore there’s one fewer player you have to worry about coming back the other way. Knowing that, Solskjaer is able to have his players take more risks. ![]() What makes Bielsa Bielsa is his propensity for his midfielders to man-mark. When Shaw’s initial pass doesn’t come off United are relentless in trying to win the ball back, getting another chance to run at Leeds which only doesn’t become a chance because Marcus Rashford somehow doesn’t get a shot off. Shaw drives the ball forward and within a few seconds United are breaking in to Leeds’ box. Scott McTominay and Fred aren’t known for their passing, though ironically it was McTominay doing his very best Paul Pogba impression 10 seconds into the match - when he held off a Leeds presser and then sprung Luke Shaw down the left with a brilliant pass - that set the tone for the afternoon. Leeds like to press high? Well, United would fight fire with fire. He knew where he could take risks, and where he wanted to exploit his opponent’s weaknesses. Knowing how they would play, Solskjaer knew exactly what he needed from his team. Defensively they press - a lot - but more importantly, their defense is based on everyone man-marking their opponent. Leeds play a very high energy up and down game. He was going to have a plan, the only question would be whether or not his players would execute it. ![]() So when he’s set to square off against Marcelo Bielsa, a man who plays his way and only his way, the advantage was always going to be with Solskjaer. Solskjaer has shown time and time again the ability to concoct a game plan depending on United’s opponent. Unless you’re 2011 Barcelona or the current iteration of Liverpool where you’re just better than everyone else, being predictable means it’s very easy to plan against you. That’s a good thing, because teams with a trademark style are always going to play that way. ![]() I never understand fans who complain that they don’t know how United are going to play heading into a game. While this adaptability means that Solskjaer is frequently changing tactics and formations, this fluidity (in moderation) is actually a strength. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s Manchester United are a counter-attacking side who’s biggest strength is their ability to adapt how they want to play.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |