Some reflections from Manchester United’s 3-0 win over Brighton.
Mason Greenwood is too good to drop
Although it is an argument that has been made by many Manchester United supporters throughout the season, last night’s match felt like the proper coming-of-age moment for the 18 year old. Greenwood has noticeably packed on some muscle during the break from football, a development mentioned by the United manager post-match. Solskjaer stated “he is getting stronger, lockdown helped him… you can see the benefit from it”. Greenwood has everything in his arsenal to become a future, world-class forward.
Another goal cutting in from the right wing to quickly finish into the keeper’s near post is becoming somewhat of a trademark finish for the young forward. With 6 goals in 25 appearances for the Red Devils this season in the Premier League, 19 of which have been from the bench, Greenwood has stated his case to remain as the first-choice right winger in the front three. Following last night’s performance and the recent rumours regarding the transfer of Jadon Sancho, it has come into question: do we already have our first-choice winger at the club?
Nemanja Matic has become one of the first names on the team sheet
Another stellar performance from Nemanja Matic last night has solidified his place as United’s “holding” midfielder. In an official United podcast, Paul Pogba revealed Matic’s nickname as Doktore, meaning the master. A nickname very fitting as Matic rarely puts a foot wrong, and always knows the right pass to make. As well as his passing abilities, his control of the ball and of player’s around him is reminiscent of the job Michael Carrick used to do for United.
Matic’s ability to dictate play and allow those around him to flourish has become crucial to United’s recent unbeaten run. With the questions over whether Pogba and Bruno Fernandes could play together, it is almost Matic himself who has settled that debate. It is a midfield trio which are complementing each other beautifully and the results are backing it up.
United are building huge momentum
With United now unbeaten in 15 games across all competitions, they are beginning to look like a force to be feared. Looking at the match from last night, although it was Brighton, it is starting to look like a collective group. With 38 goals and 11 clean sheets in those 15 games it looks like United are finally bearing the fruits of their signings under Ole.
It seems for the first time in quite a while that United have their settled starting eleven. With three or four more acquisitions to the squad, United could get back to where they belong.
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