Manchester-Varane United?
The Red Devils looked to end the season on a high had they clinched the Europa League. Instead, it was an end to a not-so-great season finishing 2nd in the premier league. Manchester United’s campaign got off to a shaky start. They lost three and drew one out of the first six matches in the premier league. This included the humiliating 1–6 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur. Ole needed to steady the ship before it was too late. Manchester United stunned everyone by showing signs of progress and becoming a title contender by mid-season.
Roy Keane after United’s humiliating loss to Tottenham, “I’m flabbergasted, I wouldn’t even let them back on the bus after the match. I’m disgusted with it”
Although everyone saw the progress the team was making, it was evident the team lacked quality players in many positions. The early exit from the champions league is proof of this. It became obvious the red devils need another defender to partner Maguire. Lindelof alongside Maguire hasn’t been able to create the impact that was expected out of this pair.
As both have the ability to play from the back it also requires them to go forward and play a high backline. The lack of pace on the pitch makes it difficult to stop counter-attacks. Maguire was outstanding in the 20–21 season, recording the most interceptions of any centre back; but, he lacked companions who might have a comparable impact. He had the most clearances, aerial battle wins and headed clearances in the Premier League. Because of their history with injuries, Eric and Tuanzebe are unable to be first choice first-team players. Manchester United’s centre backs have been terrible in set pieces. With the number of set pieces won by United, the conversion rate has been dismal, providing even more reason to sign a consistent, accomplished centre back.
It’s time Ole gets a fast-paced defender to partner Maguire. Among the various possibilities available, Raphael Varane and Pau Torres are the most likely targets set by Ole and his staff. Torres showed his defensive abilities against United in the Europa League final, but he is still young and has a lot to learn. Torres’ defensive metrics are like Lindelof’s; both have a comparable rate of interceptions and clearances per game of roughly 0.8 and 3.3. The one area where Torres outperforms Lindelof is in attack, but it doesn’t help United’s defensive woes. So, Raphael Varane, a proven centre-back at Real Madrid is what United should look to sign.
Varane has over 350 appearances for Los Blancos. He is one of the finest defenders in world football currently. The Galacticos have set a price of 60 million pounds for the French World Cup and four-time Champions League winner. Varane, at 28, has plenty of football left in him. With the experience he brings, he is the perfect fit alongside Maguire. He is a strong, quick and powerful centre-back who is flawless at bringing the ball from the back; which will suit Ole’s gameplay out and out. He is also a great reader of the game, has got the perfect physique for a centre-back, tall build who is exceptional in the air. He is a superb passer and possesses over 85% average pass accuracy in La Liga and is also more than capable of playing the odd long ball from the back.
Varane is the answer to Manchester United’s set-piece difficulties, whether they are defending set pieces or converting the set pieces they win. Many teams in Europe will be interested in signing Varane, but it is time for Manchester United to seize the chance to buy a world-class defender for 60 million pounds, which is a steal in today’s day and age. He is linked with Manchester United since Mourinho took over and was Mourinho’s initial transfer target. Manchester United has a history of not signing the manager’s first-choice player, but if the club wants to win again, the management must sign him.
Manchester United is about winning titles. This is what the team has believed in since Sir Alex took over. And, since Sir Alex’s departure, the current side has looked the most accomplished to win championships. It’s time to rally behind the manager and the players. They will help bring back glory to Old Trafford again. Positive changes in the team have been noticeable since the additions of players such as Maguire and Bruno. This team has a lot of young players who are making a name for themselves. As a result, this team requires many experienced players to complement the young guns. These seasoned players will also aid in the development of the next generation of players. It is critical to invest in the right players. When you have the opportunity to get someone like Varane, you don’t let go of that opportunity.
