Manchester United vs Barcelona: Pre-Match Analysis

Now let’s look at the things Manchester United can benefit from:

#1 A potent attack

4 – This is the first time since the 1995-96 season (Scholes, Cole, Giggs, Cantona) that Man Utd have had four players score 10+ goals in a single Premier League campaign (Martial, Rashford, Lukaku, Pogba). Fab. pic.twitter.com/KhigG2k5l9
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 30, 2019

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One department where many fellow premier league clubs would envy United is the attack. Rashford, Pogba, Lukaku, Martial, Lingard and even to some extent Sanchez, make United one of the meanest attacks in the league. Ole’s arrival has given this attacking unit a further impetus. These players often display a brilliant link-up play, one-touch passing, slick counter-attacks, and some beautiful goals.

Rashford, Lukaku, Martial, and Pogba are currently at double figures in terms of goals. According to Opta, this is the first time since 1995–96 that Manchester United have four players at double figures in goals. Messi and Co. would know better than to underestimate this attacking unit.

#2 Counter-attacking football

Many questions were asked of Ole’s tactical capabilities at the time of his arrival as a caretaker manager. But in a very short time, Ole has managed to silence many of his critics. He has proven in the past few months that he isn’t just a positive influence but also a tactically capable manager.

Ole utilizes pressing to a higher degree than any of his predecessors. United play much compactly now. The transition from defense to attack has improved. Ole has genuinely transformed United into one of the most attractive counter-attacking sides in the league. Their quick counter attacks and efficiency in front of goal was on display against PSG in the second leg. On their day, this team can hurt anyone. And that includes Barcelona.