This season wasn’t great for Manchester United. The Red Devils had a very difficult season due to several reasons. Although there should be no excuses, Erik Ten Hag had to deal with many injury struggles. Manchester United had more than 30 combinations in their backline. Many of United’s defenders were out due to injuries. Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw were absent for long periods due to knee and muscular injuries respectively. Moreover, they had to deal with the individual issues of Antony and Jadon Sancho. The Red Devils finished 8th this season and did not secure a European spot. However, they are in the FA Cup finals, which is an opportunity to get a European spot. Manchester United will face Manchester City in the FA Cup finals on 25th May. If United manage to win, they will be given a direct spot in the Europa League.
It has been a difficult season for Erik Ten Hag
Manchester United lost 14 games this season out of which 6 were home games. The Red Devils definitely missed Martinez’ and Shaw’s presence for their defense throughout the season. However, both the defenders could return for the FA Cup finals. Additionally, Mason Mount, Tyrell Malacia, and Victor Lindelof were also out for long periods due to injuries. Erik Ten Hag got in United’s academy player, Willy Kambwala to support the backline. Additionally, the Man United manager’s future has become uncertain, however, an FA Cup win could save his job. There have been several rumors regarding a managerial change at Old Trafford, but nothing has been confirmed yet.
One Manchester United player that stood out this season
Despite Manchester United’s disappointing season, they have also seen a few positives. Manchester United’s academy players stood out during this tough campaign. Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Amad Diallo were brilliant. The youngsters stepped up during crucial times. Garnacho scored 7 goals and provided 4 assists in the Premier League. On the other hand, Mainoo scored 3 goals in the league, one of which was a last-minute winner against Wolves. Furthermore, although Amad Diallo did not get much game time, his performance in the FA Cup quarter-finals against Liverpool was excellent. Diallo’s last-minute goal put the Red Devils’ ahead and led them to win 4-3 against Klopp’s side. However, one player that stood out in this campaign was Scott McTominay. The previous United captain, Harry Maguire has been impressed with McTominay’s performance.
When Harry Maguire was asked about who has the best statistics in training, he said,
“I think I’d always go with Scott McTominay, it’s probably not surprising people, but he trains brilliantly and yeah, he covers big distances and work his socks off. Always in the gym doing extras, so I’d go with Scottie.”
Maguire also mentioned that the Scottishman is very hardworking and is setting an example at Carrington. Moreover, McTominay was an important player from the bench this season. Four out of seven of his goals were scored after he came on from the bench. Additionally, McTominay’s contract is set to expire in 2025, however, he could sign a new contract with the club soon. The 27-year-old will surely be valuable for the Red Devils in the seasons to come.
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