Manchester United have had a horrendous start to their 2020-21 campaign, losing two of their three Premier League games, and narrowly winning the other.
The Red Devils have been woeful defensively, and there’s a big worry amongst the Manchester United fan base that the club are sliding downwards following their impressive run post lockdown last season.
The club have been criticised for their transfer dealings in the recently-concluded transfer window, as they left it late and signed a few youngsters as well as a 33-year-old striker on deadline day. One signing that Manchester United completed before the season got underway was Donny van de Beek.
The Dutch midfielder has yet to start in the Premier League, and has played just 47 minutes in three substitute appearances, scoring on his debut against Crystal Palace. The 23-year-old is a midfielder with loads of energy, is always on the move – with or without the ball, and is a goal threat.
Manchester United should sacrifice Paul Pogba for Donny van de Beek
Following Manchester United’s abysmal performance in the game against Tottenham, fans and pundits have been demanding that van de Beek get a start, ahead of United’s star midfielder, Paul Pogba.
The Frenchman has not inspired confidence in any of the games this season by failing to create opportunities, giving away the ball cheaply, and not controlling the game from midfield. Pogba is in the final year of his Manchester United contract, and he once again spoke of his desire to play for Real Madrid.
That statement alone will upset the fans and demand his removal from the Manchester United starting XI. But, there are more reasons why Pogba should be dropped to make way for van de Beek.
Manchester United have been poor defensively, but they have also been guilty of giving away the ball on numerous occasions in the middle of the park. Pogba’s languid displays in the middle of the park have not won him any fans in the recent weeks.
United have lacked speed in their passing, and attacks have only picked up pace when Bruno Fernandes and co. have got on the ball. Van de Beek could remedy that issue with his quick passing and movement.
Donny van de Beek reacts after scoring against Crystal Palace on his debut (Photo by Martin Rickett – Pool/Getty Images)
Van de Beek and Fernandes playing together could help the Red Devils be a bigger threat in front of goal thanks to their running, ability to pick out a pass, and their willingness to take chances.
The Dutchman could be paired with either Fred or Scott McTominay in midfield as the two would add more energy and speed in the middle of the park, which is missing when Nemanja Matic plays in the defensive midfield role.
Manchester United need to try something different after the international break, and a midfield with quickness, with or without the ball, as well as energy, could change things around.
It is van de Beek’s time to shine and help United turnaround things in the weeks to follow.