There was a buzz of optimism in Manchester United’s fanbase throughout pre-season but that feeling is quickly dwindling.
One point in two matches to begin the Premier League is not what Manchester United fans were dreaming of after a successful pre-season campaign.
The Red Devils remained unbeaten throughout their summer schedule, but a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, followed by a frustrating draw to Fulham has provided a reality check to Ruben Amorim’s side.
Rio Ferdinand raved about United’s pre-season, and fans were loving what they saw from the players in the United States. However, Amorim has not been able to replicate those performances in the Premier League.
In particular, there has been a lot of talk about United’s midfield, and questions will be asked of Amorim’s decisions after refusing to use a partnership that shone in pre-season.
Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo at Old Trafford.
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Ruben Amorim has not returned to strongest midfield pairing
As is always the case in pre-season, almost every player was given minutes and a chance to prove themselves. With no European football this season, competition for places is high and no one is experiencing that more than Kobbie Mainoo.
Reports suggest Mainoo is open to leaving United after failing to play a single minute of football in the opening two matches.
Amorim has preferred to start Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro in central midfield, with Mason Mount and Manuel Ugarte also spending minutes in midfield against Fulham.
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It has led to Gary Neville saying Mainoo is ‘fourth choice’ in Amorim’s pecking order, which is bemusing given his pre-season performances.
In particular, Ugarte and Mainoo were ‘outstanding’ against West Ham, and they also put on an incredible display against Bournemouth in a brilliantly entertaining 4-1 victory.
Despite the young duo playing well alongside each other, Amorim is yet to give them any minutes together in the Premier League so far.
Man United’s best performances have come with a clear striker
Another eyebrow-raising decision was the call to start Benjamin Sesko on the bench against Fulham.
United’s new £66 million striker has been limited to two short substitute cameos so far in the Premier League, and he has struggled to get involved in either game.
Sesko has arrived to replace Rasmus Hojlund, with the Danish forward left out of the matchday squads entirely by Amorim.
However, United’s best performances in pre-season also came when Amorim played with Hojlund as a central striker, giving those around him a target to hit.
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Since the friendly draw against Fiorentina, Amorim has decided to change things up with Matheus Cunha chosen to play as a striker in a fluid front three.
United have created plenty of chances but are yet to score a goal from open play. A better balance in midfield is needed, and Sesko needs to start games as a central option.