After more than a year of endless pursuit of Jadon Sancho, Manchester United eventually reached a conclusion on the youngster and already have their man at Old Trafford.
In similar style, the perceived difficulty of executing transfer deals with Real Madrid seems to have dissipated because, in a matter of days, Raphaël Varane will be announced as United’s new centre back.
Without a doubt, Varane’s addition to the team will most likely relieve United of their back pain. Meanwhile, Sancho’s arrival is undoubtedly a welcome addition that offers the cut and thrust on either attacking flank; particularly now that Marcus Rashford will be out for the first twelve weeks of the season.
While it looks like United will be stronger than they were last season when they finished 12 points behind champions Manchester City, an objective and critical look at Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team would clearly show that there’s yet a lot to be done if United are to win a silverware on the home-front and in Europe.
It is crystal clear that had the United hierarchy backed José Mourinho the way it backed Ole as regards transfers and off the field, the Red Devils would’ve had more amazing success than the disappointments and heartbreaks they’ve had with Ole as manager.
That said, with the caliber of players in the ranks as of now, It will be inexplicable how United will parade one of the best sides in the league and still end the season on a low.
Squad Ponderings
For this to be avoided, some uncertainties are needed to be put to rest by Ole, chief of them being the Paul Pogba transfer saga.
The French World Cup winner could be on the verge of leaving the club should he not renew his Man United contract. His exit will be a big blow to Ole and whatever setup he’s hoping to try in the new season.
According to reports in early July, it was suggested that Solskjaer wanted to move to a more attack-minded 4-3-3. One where Bruno Fernandes would receive the ball deeper as a “free eight” rather than the orthodox Number 10 he’s functioned hitherto and would be flanked by Pogba.
If Solskjaer is to adopt this new system, he would need Pogba now more than ever.
Edinson Cavani was immense last term and thankfully, he was able to renew his contract with the Club.
The problem, then, is given his age, how far would he go in a new season where City will be hoping to retain the title, the European Champions (Chelsea) will vie for the league and then there’s a Liverpool that will not be hindered by last season’s injuries.
The feeling at Old Trafford at the moment is a very positive one for the 2021/2022 season. However, anything short of winning silverware will not be accepted by United fans and no excuse from Ole will be considered by then.
