What does Manchester United have left to play for this season?
Professional footballers shouldn’t have to be worried about motivation. But it is a driving force, and a lack of it can be detrimental to the team.
Just look at Manchester United over the last two 2-2 draws — there are players who aren’t giving it their all. The loss at home to Manchester City seemed to break the spirit of United along with ending the title race.
Since that loss City have continued to roll while United have claimed eight points from the last five matches.
Maybe it’s the congested fixture list, or perhaps, it’s a lack of motivation.
The Premier League is decided. It’s a race for second place. Knowing there’s no shot of silverware can lower a player’s desire to give it all.
Here’s what can hopefully motivate the Red Devils to a strong second half of the season.
FA Cup
Manchester United last took home the FA Cup in the final game under manager Louis van Gaal in the spring of 2016.
Although the Reds finished sixth that season, it was an incredible, exciting run that saw youth play a huge role in it.
From Anthony Martial’s winner in the semifinals or Jesse Lingard’s winner in the finale, it was a run that had the Old Trafford faithful momentarily forget about the position in the league table.
The FA Cup is a storied competition. It’s one that United can focus on and it’s one of the only two pieces of silverware still up for grabs with Pep’s City realistically already the Premier League champions.
Speaking of that other piece of silverware…
The Champions League
The Champions League. Europe’s — no, the world’s — most premier competition. The best players and teams go all out, and Manchester United have made it to the round of 16.
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The chances United get by the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid, Juventus, or Bayern Munich are slim. However, no team is too good to be beaten — especially in the Champions League.
United last won the competition in 2008. It’ll be the ten-year anniversary when the knockout stages start up in a few months. That’s hard to believe.
The players shouldn’t have a hard time getting up for these matches. Proving yourself on the biggest stage is every footballer’s dream, and United have to go all in on this competition at the start of the new year.
It’s Manchester United and they should be feared.
Manchester United
The Red Devils should play for the name on their kit. Manchester United.
One of the most storied, legendary clubs of all time.
We’ve had some of the best players in the world. Some of the best moments in the history of football.
We are the most successful club in the history of England, and one of the largest clubs on Earth.
The players should be motivated to the team right each and every game. So that’s what they must do.
Next: Jose Mourinho reveals why Manchester United can’t compete with Manchester City
Although the Premier League may be over, there’s still lots left to play for this season.