McClair: Manchester United’s Matic short term solution for Pogba
Speaking to ESPN FC the Manchester United legend is happy to see Matic at Old Trafford but McClair claimed he will only solve the Pogba problem temporarily.
Matic, who turned 29 years old yesterday, recently arrived at Manchester United with many fans stating he’d be the perfect partner to Pogba. McClair has reiterated this belief but appeared to have some words of caution about the longevity of the situation.
Speaking to ESPN FC he said, “United need someone who sits there behind Pogba, who played his best football when Michael Carrick also played last season. Michael is coming to the end of a wonderful career, so United need someone who can do something similar but who will be more mobile in the coming years.”.
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McClair continued, “In the short term, I could see that someone like Matic would fit in. In some games, Paul Pogba has been in the wrong place and it has stifled his abilities which United bought him for. Pogba’s attributes are all about attacking.”.
“He can find a pass, beat a player and has fantastic skills. He can score goals. For him to have the best opportunity of success at Old Trafford, Pogba needs to be playing in the final third of the pitch as much as possible.”, he added.
On paper, at least, it appears McClair’s revelations will come true. However, only time will tell if the Frenchman and the Serbian’s partnership will kick off. Manchester United fans would be correct in assuming that these two stunning players will always start for Mourinho considering the amount he’s spent on both.
The likelihood is that Herrera will form the third part of this trio should Jose play in a 4-1-4-1 or even the pre-season tested 3-5-2 formation. This would make a rather challenging midfield for opposition teams and with Carrick, Fellaini and Pereira all competing for game time, it should keep everyone on their toes.
In recent times Manchester United’s engine room has been the problem area and Mourinho was quick in addressing it. However, he’s also added strength to the whole spine of the team with key positions being well stocked such as the goalkeeper, central defence, central midfield and striker positions.
With Jose admitting he’d like to compliment the Matic, Lindelof and Lukaku signings by adding one more winger in the team, United’s squad depth will finally be incredible, not only for it’s numbers but also for it’s quality which is far more important. The Portuguese tactician seems adamant on kicking off his second season in charge with some style.
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In terms of long term partnerships, it appears Mourinho is willing to solve that problem later on when it arrises. Perhaps Timothy-Fosu Mensah will play alongside a seasoned Pogba when Matic’s legs have gone. Either way, Manchester United would be wise in hearing out McClair’s words of caution and continue building for the future of this great club.