MU's spectacular defense transformation

Matthijs de Ligt was signed by Manchester United last summer.

If there's one position at Manchester United that has frustrated fans for most of the past decade, it's central defence. But right now, it's perhaps the most stable and promising part of the squad.

United have brought in at least one centre-back in seven of the last nine summer transfer windows, reflecting a lack of consistency and constant tinkering in this key position. However, this summer they are almost certain to not sign any centre-backs – a significant change in both strategy and confidence in their current squad.

New Frame - A Blend of Courage and Future

The three most recent signings are clear evidence of the transformation: Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt arrived at Old Trafford last summer, while Ayden Heaven was brought in during the winter transfer window. In addition, Man United activated a contract extension for Harry Maguire. When Lisandro Martinez is fully recovered, the "Red Devils" will have five dedicated central defenders with an average age of just 24 - an extremely ideal number for a long-term defensive system.

Of those, two are internally developed, three come from different footballing backgrounds. Maguire is the only one over 30 – but he is now the quiet leader, an experienced, composed centre-back who is no longer burdened by the burden of the captaincy.

The remarkable point of this new line-up of defenders is not only their defensive ability, but also their ability to support the attack. The four names including De Ligt, Martinez, Yoro and Maguire contributed a total of 9 goals last season - not bad for a central defender. Ayden Heaven also made his mark with a header in a friendly match in Hong Kong, ending an impressive streak before his injury.

Yoro's performance is getting more and more impressive.

No one else but Yoro is the name that makes fans most excited. Recruited by Man United in a fierce race with Real Madrid, this 19-year-old talent had difficulties in the early stages but the more he played, the more confident he became. Even Maguire spoke up to defend his junior: "He has all the qualities to become a top center-back. It's just a matter of time and timely support from seniors like me."

Return of the Warriors

Ayden Heaven was a revelation. He was getting better and better until he picked up an injury against Leicester. Lisandro Martinez had a very impressive January before his injury relapsed. Maguire, after two seasons of form crisis, has had two years of strong revival, playing with more solidity and discipline than ever. Although he is no longer captain, he is still the real leader of the Man United defence.

The absence of the captain’s armband – which used to feel like a blood pressure monitor around his arm – has helped Maguire regain his comfort and his voice. He is becoming a calmer, more composed version of himself and could be rewarded with a new contract next year.

Looking at Ruben Amorim’s current central defenders, one can see the gap between the present and the chaotic past under Jose Mourinho – when Ed Woodward once refused to sign a centre-back, leaving Mourinho with only Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof. Bailly – who thought Mourinho’s call was a joke – ended up playing less than 20 games per season on average. Lindelof lasted until his eighth year before leaving, despite no longer being suitable for the team’s level.

Lisa

Lisandro Martinez is about to return.

There is a downside to everything, however. All five of United’s current centre-backs were seriously injured last season. From Yoro (who waited more than four months for his debut), to De Ligt (who missed the final two months of the season), to Heaven, Martinez and Maguire – all missed at least two months.

That's why the coaching staff still considers backup options. Luke Shaw and Noussair Mazraoui can both play centre-back in a three-man system. Casemiro has played as a makeshift centre-back and done his job. Young talent Tyler Fredricson has been promoted to the first team. In total, Man United have nine names who can play centre-back - a reasonable abundance given the absence of European competition next season.

It’s no exaggeration to say that Manchester United have finally invested properly in defence. After years of wasting their budget on short-sighted signings, they now have a deep, versatile and capable group of centre-backs who can be part of the team for the long haul.

From a constant weakness, Man United's defense is gradually becoming the most solid foundation in the reconstruction process. And if it avoids the storm of injuries, this could be the stopper that every big team must be wary of next season.

Source: https://znews.vn/mu-lot-xac-hang-thu-ngoan-muc-post1569410.html