Why Louis Van Gaal should start Rafael against Arsenal
Monday’s FA Cup tie with Arsenal could be one of Louis van Gaal’s most important fixtures since joining Manchester United.
Yes, if United were to win the FA Cup while not qualifying for the Champions League, the trophy would offer little consolation for United fans everywhere. It’s not really about the trophy. The real reason why this game is important is because it will serve as a measuring stick for how van Gaal’s first season is progressing at United. And if van Gaal wants to win, he needs to start Rafael at right back.
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I know, this is the same Rafael who has frustrated fans, myself included, in the past with his antics of running across opposing players’ legs. It’s the same Rafael who was red carded in the Champions League matchup against Bayern Munich in 2010.
”Playing Valencia over Rafael is, in a way, symbolic of Van Gaal’s tenure at United so far. Instead of opting for the adventurous, attack-minded Brazilian, the Dutchman has settled for the cautious and conservative Ecuadorian.” – Chris Fleming, Bleacher Report
But this is not the same Rafael. In the opening stages of the season, Rafael played well for United. He was crucial in United’s 2-1 victory over West Ham when he provided a beautiful cross to Rooney to volley home. The goal would help United win a tough match with Rooney later being sent off. Rafael was selected as Man of the Match as a result.
Per WhoScored.com, in the mere 10 games Rafael has played in this season for United (of which United have only lost once), Rafael has averaged 2.2 tackles per game on 3.1 attempts. He’s averaged the same number of interceptions and 3.4 clearances per game, both better than the current starter, Antonio Valencia. In addition, he averages approximately one key pass per game and a passer rating of 84.2%.
Unfortunately for Rafael, he fractured his cheekbone against Yeovil in the January FA Cup match, and needed surgery to repair it. Since recovering, he’s played two matches for the United U21s and has shown promise. If there’s ever a game for Rafael to return to first team action, it’s Monday’s match against Arsenal.
Both Valencia and Rafael are physical, pacey players best on the right side of the field, which is why both of them should start versus Arsenal. Valencia at right wing, Rafael at right back, presuming van Gaal sticks with the 4-2-3-1 he’s been utilizing.
Against the Gunners, the right side of the team will need to constantly be aware of Arsenal’s likely left winger, Alexis Sanchez. Sanchez has limitless stamina, blissful speed, and tenacity, all of which make him a threat to score at any point in the match. Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could also make appearances for Arsenal.
If Di Maria or Januzaj play Monday, they’ll get battered about by Sanchez’s physicality, as well as Kieran Gibbs’ at left back. While they have been the most used options recently at right wing, neither offer the strength or ability to track back in defense which will be crucial in beating Arsenal. I expect Arsenal to sit back patiently while United possess the ball before springing on the counter. Di Maria and Januzaj would both stand and watch while Sanchez bursts down the flank, potentially leading to a goal.
Valencia has been decent coming forward from defense this season, but he’s also been predictable. Adding Rafael into the fold would add a sense of unknowing; Arsenal have little to look at this season for a scouting report. McNair is another option at right back, but he doesn’t have the experience or pace to cope with the potent Arsenal attack.
Rafael clearly isn’t United’s future at right back and according to the Daily Mail, Rafael could be sold in the coming transfer window. For now though, to win against Arsenal, van Gaal must overcome his own premise and start Rafael.