Three points for Manchester United ahead of a big battle for three points at Elland Road on Sunday.
Defensive Organisation
United have been easy to play through all season. It wouldn’t come as a surprise if Michael Carrick switches to a low block against an in-form Leeds side. The other option is to switch from a 4-4-2 to a diamond, or a mix of man-marking and zonal defence, which has been the go-to for many sides in recent years. The latter might be too big a risk in an away game, so it’s best to go with
a compact low-to-mid block for now.
Backline
The backline is the biggest issue at the moment. Michael Carrick hasn’t got a combination that he trusts with the approach he has opted for this season. Matthijs de Ligt’s return gives him an option that he hasn’t had all year. While De Ligt is far from rapid, he’s quicker than Maguire and Martinez. Playing him alongside Ayden Heaven might suffice for the time being, as both are capable enough aerially and quick enough to handle most forwards in the league.
Bryan Mbeumo
The forward had an excellent preseason and has followed it up with a strong start to the season. It helps that his underlying numbers are quite good, which suggests that he’s likely to keep this going regardless of what’s happening around him. United will need him to step up again.
