Season performance review: Nemanja Matic
By Wyatt Miner
Nemanja Matic joined Manchester United in the 2017/18 season. Furthermore, Matic became a regular name in the starting line up under Jose Mourinho.
In the heart of the defense, Matic plays a significant role in any game. For instance, in a 50/50 ball, Matic is always the favorite to come down with the ball. Teams struggle to advance the ball up through the middle of the Manchester United team because of Matic.
Not only is he a literal wall in the midfield, but he also has the capability of blasting them into the net from long range. For example, he did so at Chelsea, and he also netted a long range effort against Crystal Palace. Manchester United needed a goal going into extra time, and the ball fell to Matic. From very far out, the ball curled into the net.
Watch that world class goal here:
Either way, Nemanja Matic can easily stomp out attacks through the middle, but he also provides support in the attack. The Serbian played almost every game this season. Mourinho sees Matic fitting perfectly in his scheme. Additionally, Matic played under Mourinho at Chelsea in the 2015/16 season, so he understands how Mourinho wants the team to work.
Nemanja Matic vital stats of the 2017/18 campaign
The midfielder made a whopping 36 appearances for Manchester United this season. There are 38 games in the season, so Matic only missed out on two games. In addition, Matic netted one goal this season and assisted once. Also, Matic completed 2,601 passes this season, which comes out to about 72 passes per game.
Next: Season performance review: Paul Pogba
Ultimately, Nemanja Matic played a big part in the Manchester United team. If it were not for Matic, United would have been a porous team. Going into the summer, Matic will make appearances for Serbia in the World Cup. This will keep the midfielder active and in form going into the next season with Manchester United.