BPL Season Review: (2015/2016)

-Pranav

ON THE RIGHT TRACK?

With the beginning of the new season, several players were bought, plenty of cash was spent and the squad was radically overhauled to better suit Louis van Gaal’s philosophy (which has formed a major imprint over the club and the style of football). The question remains, will this stubborn approach bring to fruition?

The following article addresses the above and provides an insight into the issues faced and some possible solutions.

A GREAT START

It was all aboard the hype train with the signing of 6 potentially world class players and a great start to the pre-season with Manchester United absolutely encroaching through all teams standing in its path. The loss to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the final game was a fractional representation of the defensive inconsistency that has been associated with Manchester United over the years.

Manchester United proceeded to win the first game against Tottenham Hotspur with a fine performance. We continued our run of good games with the fair exception of the draw against Newcastle. Swansea City seem to have become the dark horse for Louis van Gaal as we faced another disappointing loss to a strong Swansea lineup.

LVG CHANGES HIS MIND?

After the loss to Swansea City, Louis van Gaal decided to incorporate a balance with the introduction of Anthony Martial and Batian Schweinsteiger, both of whom performed better than expected. Although Manchester United lost the match, it was one of the better performances this season (on par with the one against Wolfsburg) It was the game against PSV Eindhoven that forced Louis van Gaal to opt for a more dynamic system than the one Manchester United were previously operating in. There was more fluidity in the buildup and we were able to breakdown teams with ease. 

THE MIDFIELD WOES

Even after the inclusion of several midfield players and various changes in formation, Manchester United has not been able to incorporate a smooth and quick transition from defense to attack. 

The missing element appears to be Ander Herrera. I am absolutely baffled as to why a player of his quality, ability and creative mindset does not start for a team that lacks exactly those elements. Louis van Gaal’s nature has resulted in a playing style that notably lacks creativity and movement.  For any pass to take place, the fundamental element is space and to create space, movement is essential. The player(s) in possession should have at least three possible options at all times regardless of his position on the pitch. Any team with a good passing ability requires options on the ball and this is certainly something we can improve on for greater success.

THE POSITIVES

Despite the negative performances and the lackluster performance against Arsenal, third in the league is not the worst position to be in. Anthony Martial seems to have reduced Louis van Gaal’s woes in terms of producing goals. Juan Mata, Memphis Depay and Anthony Martial have seemingly lit an otherwise dull team and carried them on their shoulders.