Jose Mourinho’s teams are known for their solidity in defence and tactical discipline. This season has been just that as the men in red have the second best defensive record in the country only bettered by Pep’s scintillating Manchester City.
However, Mourinho will be looking to add more steel to Manchester United’s defence. The eye-catching performances of Celtic defender, Kieran Tierney has interested Jose and he might attempt to lure him away from the Scottish champions. Predominantly a left back, the Scot can also be deployed at centre-back and also in left midfield.
His numbers so far
Kieran Tierney’s numbers have been quite sensational this season. The youngster has racked up 3 goals and 6 assists, a brilliant tally for a defender. The 20-year old’s performances earned him the captain’s armband for his national side as he led the team against the Netherlands in a friendly back in September.
His most telling contributions came against Aberdeen and Partick Thistle where he came up with a goal and an assist in both games.
At just 20 years of age, the Celtic academy graduate has produced some outstanding displays and has certainly caught the eye of many.
Prospects at Manchester United
The Red Devils boast a host of talent among their defensive ranks in the likes of Bailly, Rojo, Lindelof, Smalling and Jones to name a few. Despite that fact, Jose Mourinho would like to add to his options given the uncertain displays of a number of his troops.
At times the Scottish international has also played as a left midfielder which speaks volumes of his attacking prospects. His defensive qualities coupled with his attacking instincts could be the perfect mix for the Portuguese, something that is sparse in this current United defence.
However, the 20 Y/O will have to earn his spot in the starting line-up considering the players who are already present in the team.
Why it could turn out to be a bad move…for the player
We have now seen much of the time where Jose has shuffled his packs and has not let players play in their preferred positions. His public criticism and man management could prove to be an important element in Tierney’s decision.
As a young player, he would need guaranteed game time which is not an assurance he will get under Jose Mourinho. Marcus Rashford and Paul Pogba are two great examples of this case, where one has been short of game time and the other played out of position that detaches the players’ quality out of the equation.
While game time is in abundance at Celtic, he might want to assess his options if an offer indeed comes in.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored