Nemanja Matic a necessary start against Arsenal
By Wyatt Miner
In the summer before the 2017/18 season, Nemanja Matic signed for Manchester United. Since then, the Serbian international fit perfectly in his spot at United.
Manchester United’s Nemanja Matic is a physical defensive midfielder, who can stomp out pretty much any attack via the air or ground. Mourinho’s use of the all purpose midfielder proves why he is necessary in his starting eleven. What sets Matic apart from the rest is his versatitlity. For example, in nearly every game, there is an instance where Matic uses his head to cut out the attack.
In his natural defensive-mid position he could be one of the best out there. Not only can he defend well, but he also has a rocket of a shot. For instance, the Serbian found the net miraculously in a last minute winner at Crystal Palace. In fact, Matic won the goal of the month award for his heroics against Crystal Palace.
Relive Matic’s incredible moment at Crystal Palace:
In addition to his abilities in defense and attack, he is also a good supporting player. On occasion, Matic will be the one to send in a cross to an open teammate. In a previous game, he sent a swooping cross over the opponents’ box, and he found Paul Pogba with the cross. Pogba managed to jump above the defender and head it towards the goal. However, the header would not find the net.
How will the Serbian international lineup against Arsenal?
From looking at how he has fit into Mourinho’s lineup, it is possible that he will lineup with Ander Herrera, playing defensive mid together. Herrera will provide a balance in the midfield because he is a faster player than Matic. Then, Pogba would line up in front of the two defensive midfielders to pose an attacking threat.
Matic will prove to be valuable against Arsenal because he can shut down early attacks. Because of his sweeper-like position, he will also ignite important counter-attacks. Manchester United thrive off of the counter attack because they sit so deep and absorb the offensive pressure. If Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gets the start for Arsenal, Matic will be essential in cutting off the supply.
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Ultimately, because of Nemanja Matic’s ability, he is always a must start. The Serbian international has played almost every game this season. His output at Manchester United is remarkable, and he is easily the best summer signing. Going into the next matchweek in the Premier League, Manchester United will play against their old rivals, Arsenal. Can Matic keep up the good form against the Gunners?