Manchester United: 5 Things to Watch as the Season Winds Down

Manchester United’s season is drawing to a close. Here are some things fans should look out for in the closing months.

More from Martial?

Martial’s second season in England has not lived up to the promise his first suggested. He has struggled to find a place in Jose’s first XI, and has not offered the same excitement and invention he did during his first campaign. With Zlatan Ibrahimovic out for the remainder of the season, Martial will have more opportunities to prove himself to Mourinho.

There is no questioning Martial’s talent. Last season, he racked up 17 goals in a side devoid of real attacking intent. This season he has looked short of confidence and belief. I do not think all the blame falls on Martial. I would have liked Jose to be a bit more protective of his younger players. Nonetheless, there is no better time for Martial to silence the doubters, critics, and Jose himself.

Debilitated Defense

Manchester United have been ravaged by injuries all season. Presently, the defense is the hardest hit area of the team. Marcos Rojo recently joined Phil Jones and Chris Smalling on the list of long-term absentees. Rojo was beginning to look exceedingly comfortable in Mourinho’s system and was gaining confidence each game. He will be a huge miss.

Mourinho cannot afford his defense to start slipping now with tough games approaching in the league and in Europe. He does not seem to have much confidence in Daley Blind (who was unconvincing after replacing Rojo midweek against Anderlecht). As a result, Jose may turn to promising young center back, Axel Tuanzebe to partner Eric Bailly in the heart of his defense.

Tuanzebe possesses speed, strength, and impressive aerial ability, all of which Jose will love. He can also step out and play the ball like a modern center back. It will be interesting to watch him develop, and see how he meshes with Eric Bailly if indeed Mourinho gives him a chance.

Points to Plunder

With 7 games left in the league, Manchester United have little room for error if they wish to finish in the top 4. They play five of those games away from Old Trafford. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing considering their well documented struggles at home.

United face sides in the top half of the table in 4 of the 5 games. They will visit Manchester City (4th), Arsenal (7th), Tottenham (2nd), and Southampton (9th). Last week’s 2-0 victory against league leaders Chelsea is evidence that United can beat the Premier League elite. They just need to prove they can do so consistently.

I think 10 points from these 5 games is a realistic target with 8 an absolute minimum. I am curious to see how Mourinho approaches these games, and the players he entrusts to get the results. One thing is certain, he will not want to lose to Guardiola, Pochettino, and especially Wenger. This should serve as extra motivation.

Resurgent Rashford

Marcus Rashford burst onto the scene last season capturing the hearts and imagination of fans in the process. He has managed 10 goals in 44 appearances so far compared to 8 in 18 last season. He has been deployed as a winger more often this season, so perhaps these numbers are slightly misleading. However, his finishing has left much to be desired many times this season.

Rashford has returned to prominence in recent weeks. His performance  in United’s 2-0 triumph over Chelsea was sensational. He followed that up with the extra time winner over Anderlecht in the Europa League. As a result, he seems to have won over Jose Mourinho. Rashford always looks engaged even when struggling, and always adds something positive when not on the scoresheet. Mourinho had the following to say about him per ManUtd.com

"“Ok, you speak about his qualities, his quality is fantastic, but he was not scoring a goal since September and because of his mentality, because of what he gives us, even if he isn’t scoring goals I kept relying on him. Some other players don’t realise what makes me trust a player and Marcus I trust. It doesn’t matter, score or doesn’t score, he is fantastic in his effort and attitude.”"

It is safe to assume Rashford will lead the line for United the rest of the way. Hopefully he repays Mourinho’s faith with goals.

Captain’s Carousel

Mourinho has handed Ashley Young and Marouane Fellaini the captain’s armband in recent weeks. Fans have raged and pundits have pondered, but Mourinho is unabashed. I think it has become a bit of fun for Mourinho as fans wonder who will be handed the armband next. I also think he is trying to prove it is not as big a deal as some may think. Nonetheless, it has produced some pretty hilarious reactions.

It should be fun to see who Mourinho designates the honor to next. My guess, Jesse Lingard.