It’s been a tough start to the season for Manchester United. Here are three reasons why I’m keeping the faith and not jumping overboard just yet.
Kobbie Mainoo
The United midfielder has made a massive leap, and the data backs it up. When Kobbie Mainoo first broke through, we knew he was a talent: he could receive the ball under pressure, beat a man, score goals, and take pride in his defending; all of this was evident in his debut against Everton.
It’s also true that he delivered in moments, and that the
next step was getting on the ball a bit more. He’s starting to do that now, and he’s not just been one of United’s best players so far this season, but one of the best midfielders in the league. He’s starting to impose himself, and this bodes well for United’s present and future.
Some Underlying Numbers
United have no reason to get carried away by underlying metrics, but there are reasons to believe things will even out in a couple of weeks. Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes haven’t delivered in every game, but their underlying numbers are better than most other players in the league.
Only Manchester City’s Ryan Cherki has the potential to create as many chances as the United captain, who usually tops this metric. More importantly, Bryan Mbeumo, who had a solid preseason, has been getting into good positions and taking shots. Mbeumo has also got more touches in the box than any other player in the league, with Marcus Rashford just behind him.
Rashford’s looked sharp himself but hasn’t got his finishing boots on at the minute. That first goal can change everything, and there are plenty of reasons to believe United won’t have trouble scoring goals.
Players Returning
Carlos Baleba and Amad Diallo will return after the international break. Baleba is a new signing who will add qualities that the midfield has lacked for a long time, and Amad Diallo offers some balance to the attack. United should’ve done better without them, but there’s no doubt that their return will boost the camp.
