Man Utd draw 2-2 against the Gunners: Red Devils better without Pogba and Lukaku, and other learnings

Manchester United hosted Arsenal at Old Trafford.
Manchester United hosted Arsenal at Old Trafford.

#1 United better without Pogba and Lukaku

Pogba dropped from the starting XI.
Pogba dropped from the starting XI.

Paul Pogba and Romelu Lukaku are two of the biggest names in Manchester United's dressing room. Pogba arrived in Manchester in Jose's first season in charge but never looked like a player who cost nearly £100 million. Lukaku, on the other hand, is struggling with form after an excellent debut season in the previous campaign.

Mourinho was forced to play a 4-3-3 formation to accommodate the Frenchman as he was struggling to do defensive duties in a 4-2-3-1 structure. However, he was still inconsistent with his performances and reportedly had a fallout with the manager. There were even rumors of Mourinho calling Pogba a virus after the game against Southampton.

Against Arsenal, Jose started with a 3-4-3 formation dropping both Paul and Romelu from the side. The Red Devils were off from the word go with the front three of Martial, Rashford, and Lingard leading the charge. Even the midfield of Herrera and Matic looked solid as compared to previous games.

The Portuguese bought on Lukaku and Pogba in the second half, but they failed to make any substantial impact. The Belgian's lack of form was again on show whereas the Frenchman's lack of confidence was apparent when he misplaced some simple passes.

It's hard to say why these big match players are not performing up to their potential. The relationship with the manager could be the reason for their downfall, but whatever it is, the Red Devils looked a much better side without them.

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