How the Red Devils could be lining up in 2014/15.
As expected new manager Louis van Gaal has already been experimenting at Manchester United and on Tuesday employed a 3-4-1-2 formation for his side’s pre-season friendly against Inter Milan.
This is the tactic that the 62-year-old used to such great effect at the 2014 World Cup with the Netherlands national team as they finished third in the tournament.
So here is how the Red Devils team could look in 2014/15 if van Gaal does use this new style.
GK – David de Gea
Is really growing into a top-class goalkeeper and the Spaniard is likely to be heavily relied upon between the sticks as the club look to return to form.
CB – Phil Jones
Van Gaal already looks to be favouring towards the former Blackburn Rovers man ahead of fellow Englishman Chris Smalling and it looks as if Jones could be getting the nod.
CB – Jonny Evans
Last term the Northern Irishman proved that he could cut it at the top and Evans is now one of the longest serving players at the club and that will be invaluable for the new faces.
CB – Thomas Vermaelen
Completing a new look back line is the current Arsenal captain, who is being constantly linked with United due to his lack of opportunities at the Emirates Stadium currently.
Source: Independent.
RM – Antonio Valencia
With his versatility at being able to play on the wing or as a right-back the workmanlike Valencia gets the nod in this starting XI ahead of Rafael.
CM – Michael Carrick
With his defensive nous and ball-playing abilities Carrick is likely to be a stalwart in the team once the 32-year-old has recovered from his current injury.
CM – Ander Herrera
One of the new signings at Old Trafford and a £29m purchase who has greatly impressed thus far and could well be the creative spark the club needs in midfield.
LM – Luke Shaw
With his attacking impetus and physicality don’t be surprised to see Shaw pushed further up the pitch, but van Gaal wants his fitness to greatly improve before then.
CAM – Juan Mata
Since becoming the club’s record signing in January after completing a £37.1m move from Chelsea, Mata has failed to truly excel as he’s not been played in his favoured No.10 role.
ST – Robin van Persie
There were brief rumours that the Dutchman would be leaving the Theatre of Dreams this summer, but the arrival of his former national team coach has changed that.
ST – Wayne Rooney
Despite talk that Rooney would have to play out of position to accommodate other players it looks as if van Gaal wants the 28-year-old up alongside van Persie.
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