Carrick is playing Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba in the midfield for ballast, but up front for Manchester United, there’s a palpable lack of magic. This isn’t just a hunch, his lineup choices speak volumes about the team’s current attacking woes.
Midfield Ballast, Forward Fizzle
The choice to go with Santos and Baleba in the midfield makes sense for bringing some balance and solidity, which the team clearly needs. But when you look at the attacking setup, it’s clear where the struggle is. Matheus Cunha got hooked at halftime in Como, so he’s out. Instead, Amad is coming in on the right. Now, let’s be real, his numbers aren’t exactly screaming “world-class,” but the guy offers good out-of-possession work and does give the team some balance. The wild thing is, he’s basically the *only* one who can dribble in a team severely lacking one-v-one ability. That’s a red flag right there.
Questionable Attacking Placements
Then you’ve got Mason Mount, a manager’s favorite, relocated to the left. Bryan Mbeumo continues up front, and that’s only because Benjamin Sesko is out. What does that tell you about Joshua Zirkzee? He scored in midweek, sure, but it seems Carrick isn’t quite sold on him if Mbeumo is still getting the nod in Sesko’s absence. It’s a tough look for United when the forward line feels more like a patchwork job than a cohesive attacking threat.
So, the attack is looking rough for United right now. Carrick’s got some big decisions to make if they want to find that spark.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Guardian.
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