Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-1 Manchester United: 5 Talking Points & Tactical Analysis | FA Cup 2018-19

#4 Manchester United’s issues in the squad prevent them from trying out certain stuff

It was a thoroughly dismal performance

There were certain assumptions before the match began that Ole could opt for a back three in order to play both Anthony Martial and Rashford at the top.

This would mean that Diogo Dalot would have played as a wingback in the absence of Ashley Young, a position where he has looked far more suitable so far. This could also have stopped rushing Jesse Lingard back from injury, something that we will discuss in the upcoming slides.

However, this could have allowed the manager to play a nearly fit squad. However, as visible in recent months, United’s backline is thoroughly dysfunctional whenever they line up with three men in the backline.

The defenders just aren’t confident, compatible and flexible enough to carry out their roles flawlessly whilst playing in a back three. Eric Bailly was hauled off within the first half against PSG as he had failed miserably in his role at the right-hand side of the defensive line.

Similarly, starting Chris Smalling and Phil Jones together would have been a huge risk too, given their knack of committing silly errors and often inappropriate positioning. Victor Lindelof has had an excellent season, emerging as the leader of the back by justifying his potential in the United shirt.

However, even he seems to have had a couple of indifferent games in the last week and would have to be back to his lethal best if United are to battle the upcoming stretch of difficult matches in April.

Manchester United needs significant defensive upgrades in the summer.