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Manchester United: Poor performances linked to midfield

By Wyatt Miner

LISBON, PORTUGAL - OCTOBER 18: Juan Mata of Manchester United reacts as and appeals for a goal as Mile Svilar of Benfica attempts to stop the ball from crossing the line, a goal is later given to Marcus Rashford of Manchester United (not pictured) during the UEFA Champions League group A match between SL Benfica and Manchester United at Estadio da Luz on October 18, 2017 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)
LISBON, PORTUGAL - OCTOBER 18: Juan Mata of Manchester United reacts as and appeals for a goal as Mile Svilar of Benfica attempts to stop the ball from crossing the line, a goal is later given to Marcus Rashford of Manchester United (not pictured) during the UEFA Champions League group A match between SL Benfica and Manchester United at Estadio da Luz on October 18, 2017 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images) /
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At the start of the season, Manchester United looked to be an incredible side. Only a few weeks into the season, Paul Pogba injured his hamstring. As one would expect, Pogba’s absence leaves a huge gap in the midfield. Thankfully, United were still winning games without the Frenchman. Everything appeared to be fine!

HUDDERSFIELD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 21: Nemanja Matic of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Huddersfield Town and Manchester United at John Smith’s Stadium on October 21, 2017 in Huddersfield, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
HUDDERSFIELD, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 21: Nemanja Matic of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Huddersfield Town and Manchester United at John Smith’s Stadium on October 21, 2017 in Huddersfield, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images) /

Then, disaster struck again. Marouane Fellaini sprained his left medial ligament in Belgium’s 4-3 win against Bosnia. What did this mean for Manchester United? Mourinho is now down two vital players in his squad. Without Pogba AND Fellaini United’s level of play began to tank.

Evidence of United’s decrease in play is obvious against Liverpool. As Jurgen Klopp put it, the only reason it was a 0-0 draw is because Liverpool could not find the net. Without Pogba and Fellaini, United simply could not generate offense.

Despite Pogba being injured, he is making great process in rehabilitation:

Why are Pogba and Fellaini crucial to Manchester United’s performance?

Pogba is the biggest enforcer that United has.. When he is on the ball, it is almost impossible to take it away from him. On the other hand, Pogba has proven himself to be a vital defesively. He has a whopping 100% tackle success rate. All in all, Pogba is a player that is valued both on offense and on defense. It is no wonder why United’s level of play has decreased.

Fellaini is a good substitution for Pogba. Like Pogba, Fellaini is a tank. His strong frame makes him hard to push-off the ball. Additionally, Fellaini is a good goal poacher. He has already scored three goals this season; including a brace against Crystal Palace. He gets in behind the defense and creates problems that Manchester United can capitalize on.

Next: Manchester United are set to pursue Dortmund star Marco Reus

Yes, in the end United still have many other midfielders to utilize. However, it is apparent in United’s play that they are missing a spark in the midfield. Without someone to control the midfield, United has been struggling to score. Supporters everywhere are waiting anxiously for Pogba to be cleared by the medical staff.

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