How Does Victor Lindelöf Fit In At Manchester United?

After the profile on Victor Lindelöf we take a look at what the Swede brings to Manchester United in terms of playing style.

Playing Style

In order to summarize Lindelöf’s playing style, you have to label him a ball-playing center back. Period. He is very calm and composed on the ball, especially in tight situations, which led to his teammates assigning him the moniker ‘The Iceman’. He frequently brings the ball forward from defence to initiate attacks and often bypasses tight opposition midfields with balls over the top to the wingers.

Conversely he also plays quick one-twos (with the defensive midfielder covering for him) and joins in the attack occasionally. His passing could help get the ball to Paul Pogba as quickly as possible, helping unlock deep defences. Yet his most frequent pass is to the right back, usually after a defensive possession recovery, so you can safely predict Antonio Valencia bombing up the wing next season thanks to a pinpoint pass from Lindelöf.

Lindelöf is also not a prolific tackler, preferring to control the game with timely interceptions instead, showcasing his football IQ. He rarely goes to ground, only to make crucial last-ditch tackles and recoveries. But he does not shy away from getting involved in aerial duels and possesses good heading ability.

Additionally he can also play at right back, having played there for the Sweden U-21 team during their successful 2015 U-21 European Championship campaign, where Lindelöf was named in the Team of the Tournament. He also boasts significant Champions League experience, performing amicably against the likes of Robert Lewandowski, and has won the lot in Portugal, winning the league and domestic cups twice.