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Manchester United: Trying To Fit In Di Maria – Is He The Player They Needed?
A club record £59.7 Million move from Real Madrid for Argentinean winger Angel Di Maria has got the clubs’ supporters cheering yet again. As the hopes built from a fruitful pre-season came crashing down like a castle of cards after the lackluster start to the season, the fans needed a breath of renewed hope and Di Maria seems to be the answer. When club legends like Paul Scholes & Gary Neville themselves feel excited over Di Maria’s arrival, it clearly reveals the obvious quality he brings to the squad. And there is no doubting his abilities as a player. But the only question is- was he the player that United needed right now?
Unsurprisingly, I seem to be one of those few (if not the only) Manchester United fans to even have this doubt. But with the current crop of players in the side, there is no denying that this question is not out of context. Before I am pelted with curses, let me explain why.
DI MARIA’S STRONGEST POSITION
Di Maria’s naturally a right sided winger who prefers cutting inside and crossing into the box, but is also capable of playing on the left or as the most advanced midfielder just behind the striker. Last season at Real Madrid, the excess of attacking options forced him into the left of a 3-man central midfield where he flourished quite well.
THE 3-5-2, UNITED’S CURRENT FORMATION
Louis van Gaal has almost always stuck to the 3-5-2 (more precisely a 3-4-1-2) formation from the beginning of pre-season until the last match they played, against Sunderland. It has two wing backs parading either wings in support of the 3-man backline and also the attackers upfront.
Closer looks at teams that play the 3-5-2 reveal that most of them have natural full backs in the wing back positions. Even Van Gaal’s Netherland’s side had Daryl Janmaat and Daley Blind or Bruno Martins Indi at wing back positions, and they are all more defense-minded players. Of course, there are exceptions. Dirk Kuyt for Netherlands, Juan Cuadrado for Fiorentina and Mauricio Isla for Chile have all done well at wing-back roles despite being attack minded players. But their advantage was that they all had either 1 or 2 strong defensive midfielders sitting in front of the 3 men defense, who shared a major chunk of their defensive responsibilities letting them enough freedom to go upfront.
Currently, United neither has a fully fit full back nor aphysical defensive midfielder as mentioned above. Rafael and Shaw are fighting hard to stay fit, and while Darren Fletcher and Ander Herrera have done reasonably well from central midfield roles, none of United’s current lot have the quality of someone like Nigel De Jong, to provide their wing backs with an unrestricted license to burst forward. This has basically led United to drop off from a 3-5-2 to 5-3-2 almost always, that too with more attack-minded players like Ashley Young and Jesse Lingard in the wing-back roles. And with United’s central midfield unable to provide enough cover these players have been forced to play in an unfamiliar defensive mindset, thereby occasionally exhibiting their defensive frailties.
In such a situation, handing Di Maria a starting berth in the wing-back role does not seem clever. With his work rate and speed, Di Maria will surely be an upgrade over Valencia or Lingard on the right or Young on the left. But the lack of defensive support from the middle would restrict Di Maria’s runs upfront. Instead if Di Maria is allowed to run, that would put the defense considerably at risk. Unless United address their issues in central midfield and to an extent at centre-back, playing Di Maria at wing-back does not look a great idea at the moment.
To start him in the advanced midfielder role also seems out of the context as that would mean he would have to oust Juan Mata to play in that position. Benching the diminutive Spaniard would be a shame as he is a player alongside whom even Di Maria can thrive even better. By cutting out the consistent supply of chances Mata opens up, United will put itself in greater peril.
That leaves us with one role-the role he played to perfection at Real last time- the central midfield. But Manchester United is unlike Real where he had a more solid backline and a decent defensive midfielder alongside him in either Xabi Alonso or Asier Illaramendi to support him. It is to be noted that Ander Herrera was at his best last season for Atletico Bilbao when allowed the license to go upfront, but at United he has been considerably limited to a more defense-minded role. Di Maria’s arrival alongside him would meanhe would have to drop behind even further.Fletcher and Herrera have considerably limited their attacking instincts and often shared their defensive duties and to put an even more attacking player into the mix makes the issue even further. Michael Carrick’s arrival might ease things, but Carrick is still a few months away from fitness and United cannot afford to wait until then.
Thus, it is clear that there are a few concerns when accommodating Di Maria into a 3-5-2 with the current squad. With a stronger defensive midfielder or a more resolute backline, it would have been safe to play Di Maria in the wing-back position, or alternatively with better players at wing-back and centre-back, Di Maria could have slotted into central midfield. But without either of these, a 3-5-2 does not look the right formation for United to accommodate Di Maria.
THE ALTERNATIVES? A 4-4-2? A 4-3-3?
A 4-4-2 diamond looks good enough to accommodate all of United’s quality attacking players. With Di Maria in either of the two flanks, Valencia, Young or Januzaj could take the other flank, and Mata can continue his stint in ‘the hole’. But one serious concern yet again would be that it would be Herrera or Fletcher that would go into the holding midfielder role and would have their attacking roles completely cut out. With Rojo arriving at United, shifting into a conventional 4-man backline would not be a bad idea with him at left-back until Shaw returns. But with United struggling at the back even against comparatively weaker teams, the question remains whether this fragile backline would be able to cope especially against stronger oppositions.
The 4-3-3 again safeguards the interests of Fletcher, Herrera, Mata and Di Maria, as all get comfortable roles. But the issue of this formation would be that Wayne Rooney would be shrunk to a wide role with Robin Van Persie likely to get the central striker role. Rooney have played in a wide role before, but has looked wayward there. With the defense looking awful with only 2 clean sheets in the last 10 matches they have played, the best thing for United would be incorporating Mata, Di Maria, Van Persie and Rooney in the best way possible, so that the attacking returns keep coming. The 4-3-3 would mean putting 1 out of the 4’s potential in jeopardy.
THE INFERENCE
There is no denying that Angel Di Maria is a world-class player. Definitely, he has raised the quality of the squad with his arrival. But as deeper analysis suggests, there were some glaring weaknesses in the squad that needed to be addressed with greater urgency. A team that plays a 3-man defense needs more quality as well as quantity, andUnitedneed to stop jugglingthe 3 injury prone senior players and 2 youth players at their disposal and sign one more centre-back in addition to Marcus Rojo. Rafael and Valencia’s injury woes also need to be addressed especially with Van Gaal’s penchant for the 3-5-2 demanding a solid wing-back. Manchester United also needs someone who can provide a strong physical presence in the middle of the ground.
With all these areas to be addressed, United signing Di Maria looks more like a forced signing, to keep the fans happy and the club’s high profile status intact. It is important that the club and fans realize the fact that United might be the biggest club in the world, but for a player his career is of primary interest. With no European football to offer, United might have a huge mistake pointlessly chasing players that prefer a bigger platform to perform than the reputation of being at a prestigious club like United. For instance, United should have sealed the deal for Ezequiel Garay instead of chasing Mats Hummels and Mehdi Benatia, who might be more popular but do not offer anything significantly greater than Garay.
With the transfer window nearing its end, United have spent around 140 million on 4 players and yet have gaps to fill. Given all of United’s current limitations in the squad, it is uncertain what plans Van Gaal has for Di Maria but wherever he is set to be slotted into he does not seem to be a perfect fit.Di Maria’s arrival is a definite boost, but it would have been far better if United had filled the voids first and then made Di Maria their final marquee signing. But with the voids yet to be filled, it is safe to say that Di Maria is a great signing but one that was definitely not essential.
I recently came across a tweet in reply to those like me, which said “Being upset at the Di Maria signing because it’s not what we need is like being upset because your girlfriend offers you sex when you’re hungry.” The counter that I have to it is that “Buying Di Maria is like buying an awesome blazer to wear over your 3 layers of shirts, while you are naked below the waist.’
Argentina will be aiming for a record-breaking 16th Copa America title when they take on Colombia
The Copa America 2024 is set for an electrifying conclusion as defending champions Argentina face off against Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida on Sunday. This highly anticipated final marks the first-ever Copa America final meeting between these two footballing powerhouses. Argentina aim to secure a record-breaking 16th title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.
Argentina’s road to the final has been marked by grit and determination. They navigated a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against Ecuador in the quarter-finals before securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over Canada in the semi-finals. Julian Alvarez opened the scoring, followed by a historic goal from Lionel Messi, who now stands as the second-highest male goalscorer in international football with 109 goals.
Argentina’s unbeaten streak now extends to 10 matches, and they remain unbeaten in major tournament knockout games on American soil since the 1994 World Cup. It is no understatement that they go into the clash as favourites.
Colombia are no pushovers, however. They have been in exceptional form. Since their 1-0 loss to Argentina in World Cup qualifying in February 2022, they have embarked on a record-breaking unbeaten run of 28 matches.
Jefferson Lerma’s header gave Colombia the lead before Daniel Munoz’s red card put them at a numerical disadvantage against Uruguay. Despite this setback, Colombia’s resilience shone through as they held on to secure their place in the final. The victory over Uruguay was marred by a brawl involving Uruguayan players and Colombian supporters, but Colombia’s focus remained unwavering. This final represents a chance for Colombia to end a long wait since their first Copa America triumph in 2001.
Team News and Predicted XI
Argentina
For the final, Argentina face no injury or suspension issues. Head coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to maintain an unchanged lineup. The defence will feature a solid back four with Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico, with Emiliano Martinez as the goalkeeper.
In the midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Rodrigo De Paul are anticipated to keep their places, even though Giovani Lo Celso and Exequiel Palacios are pushing for a start. Angel Di Maria is poised for his international farewell on the right wing. Alexis Mac Allister, who has been impressive on the international stage, will play a crucial role, linking up with Messi from the midfield.
Lionel Messi, who overcame a leg injury to play the full match against Canada, will lead the attack alongside Julian Alvarez. Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s top scorer, is expected to begin on the bench and should be brought on in the second half.
Predicted Playing XI (4-4-2): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lis. Martinez, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, E. Fernandez, De Paul, Di Maria; Messi, Alvarez
Colombia
With Daniel Munoz suspended, Santiago Arias is set to start at right-back, joining Davinson Sanchez, Carlos Cuesta, and Johan Mojica in a solid four-man backline. Camilo Vargas will likely be the goalkeeper.
In midfield, Jefferson Lerma and Richard Ríos are expected to form the double pivot, providing protection for the defence and allowing the attacking players to push forward.
Captain James Rodriguez, who has recorded a tournament-high six assists, will continue in the number 10 role. He will be supported by Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Fluminense’s Jhon Arias on the flanks.
Jhon Cordoba, who has contributed with two goals and two assists, is expected to lead the attack, with Jhon Duran and Rafael Santos Borre available as options.
Predicted Playing XI (4-2-3-1): Vargas; Santiago Arias, Sanchez, Cuesta, Mojica; Rios, Lerma; Jhon Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Cordoba
Key Stats
- Victory will see Argentina win their 16th Copa America title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s illustrious history.
- Colombia are unbeaten in their last 28 international games.
- Argentina have won 26 of their 43 meetings against Colombia in all competitions.
- A win for Colombia will see them win just their second Copa America title, their first since 2001.
Match Deciding Duel
Enzo Fernandez (Argentina) vs James Rodriguez (Colombia)
Argentina have been solid in defence and penetrating their backline has proven to be a challenge for most sides in the competition. Colombia have a rather dynamic attack but will depend on the veteran James Rodriguez to act as the playmaker.
With the likes of Luis Diaz able to make the most of opportunities, the onus will be on Enzo Fernandez to ensure Rodriguez does not have space to manoeuvre in. The duel between the two players could certainly set the tone for which way the cookie crumbles on the night.
Prediction
Argentina 2-1 Colombia
The clash is likely to be an entertaining one with the midfield battle expected to set the tone for the result. Argentina. however, have more strength in depth and the ability to bring a player of Lautaro Martinez’s calibre off the bench in the second half is akin to a cheat code. The Inter Milan star is expected to lead the defending champions to a close 2-1 win on the night.
Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final
As Euro 2024 reaches its climax, the football world braces for a thrilling final between Spain and England at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. This highly anticipated match will determine the champions of Europe, with Spain looking to add to their illustrious history and England aiming to lift the Henri Delaunay Trophy for the first time.
Spain, guided by Luis de la Fuente, entered the tournament somewhat under the radar but quickly established themselves as a formidable contender. They navigated the so-called ‘Group of Death’ with ease, securing nine points from three matches against Croatia, Italy, and Albania. Impressively, they emerged from the group stage without conceding a goal to an opposition player.
In the knockout stages, Spain demonstrated their resilience and quality. A stunning 4-1 comeback against Georgia in the last-16 and a tense extra-time victory over hosts Germany in the quarter-finals showcased their grit and talent. The semi-final against France was another test of their mettle, with young star Lamine Yamal lighting up the Allianz Arena and Dani Olmo sealing the win.
Spain’s journey to the final has not been without challenges, but their blend of experience and youthful exuberance has seen them through. They now stand on the brink of history, aiming to become the first European men’s team to win four major tournaments consecutively.
England’s Euro 2024 campaign has been a rollercoaster. Gareth Southgate’s men had a mixed group stage, winning only once against Serbia and drawing against Denmark and Slovenia. Their knockout phase has been a tale of resilience and drama, coming from behind in both the last-16 and quarter-finals.
A lacklustre win over Slovakia and a penalty shootout victory against Switzerland set the stage for a semi-final clash with the Netherlands. Despite early setbacks, including a goal from Dutch prodigy Xavi Simons, England produced their best performance of the tournament. A late winner from Ollie Watkins, following a perfect penalty from Harry Kane, propelled them to their second consecutive Euro final.
Southgate’s squad has shown incredible determination and character, setting new records along the way. Kane’s scoring feats and the team’s ability to perform under pressure have been pivotal to their success.
We take a look at how both sides could line up on the night and what tactics they might employ.
Team News and Predicted XI
Spain
Spain’s bad-tempered quarter-final against Germany saw Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand fall foul of the referee, leading to their suspensions for the semi-final. Both players are now back at De la Fuente’s disposal, bringing much-needed fresh legs to the Roja XI. Carvajal will replace Jesus Navas, while Le Normand should push Nacho to the bench.
Spain are expected to maintain a 4-3-3 formation with Unai Simon in goal. Daniel Carvajal and Marc Cucurella should hold the flanks in defence, while Robin Le Normand and Aymeric Laporte should form the centre-back pairing. Rodri should form the midfield pivot, with Dani Olmo and Fabian Ruiz pushing forward.
Skipper Alvaro Morata should lead the line with the electric duo of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams providing support. Morata was initially a concern given his freak injury after the win against France. Thankfully for Spain, he trained normally and should lead them out.
Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Ruiz, Rodri, Olmo; Yamal, Morata, Williams
England
England arrive in Berlin with a fully fit squad, including Luke Shaw, who has recovered from injury. Shaw’s performance against Switzerland and his effective stint in the semi-final suggests he may start, replacing Kieran Trippier at left-back.
Southgate is likely to stick with his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. Jordan Pickford will guard the goal, with a back three of John Stones, Harry Maguire, and Marc Guehi.
Shaw and Kyle Walker will operate as wing-backs, while Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham form the midfield pivot. Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka will support captain Harry Kane in attack. Southgate has enough game-changers on the bench and it remains to be seen if he will have the nerve to make bold calls or play the long game and roll the dice.
Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Shaw; Bellingham, Foden; Kane
Key Stats
- A victory on the night will see Spain secure their fourth title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.
- A win for England will see them triumph in the European Championships for the first time in their history.
- Spain and England have faced off 27 times in all competitions. La Roja have won 10 games while England have won 14. Three games ended in a draw.
- England have never lost to Spain in a UEFA European Championship clash before.
Match Deciding Duel
Lamine Yamal (Spain) vs Luke Shaw (Spain)
Lamal has been a critical difference-maker for Spain in this year’s tournament and will hope to end it on a high. Up against the recently returned Luke Shaw, he will aim to run rings against the English veteran.
Shaw’s ability to get caught out could provide Yamal the space he needs to run into and put the English backline into disarray. This should also subsequently free up Dani Olmo to make his trademarks into the box.
Prediction
Spain 1-1 England (Spain to Win on Penalties)
England will be keen to end their trophy drought and also go one better than last time around. While they have a strong squad with plenty of depth, Southgate’s inability to take calculated risks should play right into Spain’s hands. It remains unlikely that the trophy will go ‘home’ anytime soon.
Argentina and Canada will face off in the first semifinal of Copa America 2024, a repeat of the competition opener from Group A
Canada have a golden opportunity to make history as they face defending champions Argentina in the first semi-final of Copa America 2024 at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.
In a rematch of their tournament opener, Canada can become the second CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America final. Both sides advanced to the semi-finals via penalty shootouts, with Argentina defeating Ecuador and Canada overcoming Venezuela after 1-1 draws in regular time respectively.
Argentina’s path to the semi-finals has been fortified by their exceptional defence and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The victory over Ecuador secures their fifth consecutive appearance in the Copa America semi-finals. Historically, Argentina have been strong at this stage, progressing in seven of their last eight attempts, with the only setback being against Brazil in 2019.
A triumph on Tuesday would mark the first time Argentina reached the Copa America final as defending champions since 1959. Scaloni’s team has been defensively sound, conceding just once throughout the tournament. The Albiceleste are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, allowing only three goals during this period.
On the other hand, Canada has shown remarkable resilience since their initial loss to Argentina. Jesse Marsch’s squad has conceded just once in their last three games. They are the third CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America semi-finals in their debut appearance, following Honduras and Mexico. They are also the first from the region to advance this far since the USA in 2016.
This semi-final marks Canada’s fifth appearance in the final four of a continental tournament this century. They have progressed beyond this stage twice, in the 2023 Nations League and the 2000 Gold Cup. Canada aims to emulate Mexico’s 2001 Copa America run, where Mexico reached the final before losing to Colombia.
Argentina’s defensive stability and tactical discipline under Scaloni will be pivotal, also giving their world-class frontline a base to build upon. Canada, under Marsch, has transformed into a more disciplined and resilient team. Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies will be crucial in breaking down Argentina’s defence. SoccerSouls takes a closer look at this clash.
Team News and Predicted XI
Argentina
Lionel Messi was not at his best against Ecuador and will be keen to make amends for the penalty miss in the shootout. he missed the final group game with a hamstring injury but now appears to be back to full fitness.
Lionel Scaloni is likely to retain his flexible 4-3-3 formation with Emiliano Martínez in goal. He should be protected by the back four of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Marcos Acuna.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes should perform the role of the pivot in the centre, giving Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister and the dynamic Rodrigo De Paul the freedom to push forward. Lionel Messi is expected to don the playmaker’s role with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez leading the line. Angel Di Maria will offer Argentina another option off the bench should they need to shift gears.
Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Acuna; Mac Allister, Paredes, De Paul; Messi, La. Martinez, Alvarez
Canada
Inter Milan Tajon Buchanan remains a major doubt for Canada after he suffered a broken tibia during training just days before their match against Venezuela. This injury puts his participation in doubt not just for the semi-final clash against Argentina but also for the remainder of the tournament.
Jesse Marsch has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from for the clash and is expected to set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Maxime Crépeau in goal. The shot-stopper should be protected by the back four of Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, and Alphonso Davies.
Stephen Eustáquio and Jonathan Osorio should form the double pivot, freeing up Jonathan David to act as the playmaker. Cyle Larin should start up front, with Richie Laryea and Jacob Shaffelburg providing support out wide.
Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Osorio, Eustaquio; Laryea, David, Shaffelburg; Larin
Key Stats
- Argentina have never conceded a goal against Canada.
- Argentina have not lost a major tournament match on U.S. soil since a 3-2 defeat to Romania in the 1994 World Cup’s round of 16.
- A win on the night will see Canmada make it to their first-ever Copa America final at the first time of asking.
- Argentina have not made it to the final of the competition as defending champions since 1959.
Match Deciding Duel
Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) vs Derek Cornelius (Canada)
Lautaro Martinez is the top scorer in the tournament this season and has made it a habit of scoring late goals for Argentina. This augurs well for a side that is defensively compact, giving them a second wind to settle the game as the opposition gets tired. Derek Cornelius will have his hands full all night but will know that he cannot slack off for even a second with Martinez on the prowl.
Argentina’s ability to score late coupled with Canada’s vulnerabilities in the second half of the game makes for a thrilling finale in the final 30 minutes of the first semifinal. While Argentina do have several threats and matchwinners in their lineup, Martinez’s clinical touch has given them the edge this summer. He will certainly be aiming to make a difference once again on Tuesday.
Transfer Watch
Jonathan David
The LOSC Lille attacker is Canada’s trump card going forward and is expected to leave the Ligue 1 giants this summer. David is a pacy player whose ability to get into space and clinical ability in the box helps make a difference. While several clubs are keeping tabs on him, a solid showing against the defending FIFA World Cup holders will only help boost his profile among potential suitors.
David will be up against the meanest defence in the competition on the night. The duo of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez aren’t just formidable defenders but their ‘take no prisoners’ approach will certainly add a physical element to the duel. David is unlikely to come up against a meaner backline in the competition and how well he handles this challenge could determine his stock this summer.
Prediction
Argentina 2-0 Canada
Both teams will be familiar with each other having felt each other out on the opening day. The stakes are much higher this time round and Canada will be hoping for a monumental upset. Argentina were handed a late scare against Ecuador and that perhaps will ensure they don’t take Tuesday’s game for granted. The game should be a hard-fought one with Argentina’s match winners making the difference in the second half of the game.
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