The Numbers That Show Man United’s Current Struggles Ahead Of Liverpool Clash | OneFootball

Manchester United: Mid-Table Form and Tactical Weaknesses

As Liverpool prepares for a crucial clash against Manchester United, the latest episode of Stat Me Up on Anfield Index, featuring Dave Davis and Phil Barter, painted a stark picture of United’s current struggles. This analysis dives into their statistical inefficiencies, tactical concerns, and what Liverpool can exploit in this classic fixture.

A Mid-Table Side by the Numbers

Manchester United’s performance this season has been far from their illustrious standards. Phil Barter’s analysis was blunt: “You have to scroll really far down to find United; they’re sitting 14th in xG difference.” This reflects their inability to convert opportunities and defend effectively. Despite scoring 21 goals, their xG suggests they should have netted 29, revealing a significant underperformance in attack.

Defensively, the issues persist. United has conceded 26 goals but should have conceded 31 based on xG, showing they’ve been fortunate in some scenarios. Barter summarised their plight succinctly: “They’re running cold at one end and hot at the other – not the way you want it to be.”

Inefficiency in Attack

United’s struggles stem from a lack of consistency in creating high-quality chances. Their variability in shot numbers per game, ranging from 10 to 23, highlights this inconsistency. Barter explained, “They’re not taking enough shots, and when they do, they’re failing to convert high xG opportunities.”

A further blow to United’s attacking capabilities is the absence of cutting-edge finishing. Barter pointed out, “Their forwards are not in the richest vein of form,” and their inability to capitalise on even the limited opportunities they create has compounded their struggles.

Defensive Vulnerabilities

United’s defensive fragility is another glaring concern. Barter revealed, “They’re the worst team defensively from set pieces, while Liverpool is third-bottom in attacking set-pieces.” While this may seem like an even matchup, Liverpool’s tactical adjustments could exploit this glaring weakness.

Furthermore, United’s aerial win rate of just 51% places them significantly below Liverpool’s average of mid-60s. This could prove costly in a match where aerial duels often decide key moments. As Barter suggested, Liverpool’s ability to capitalise on these situations will be crucial.

Tactical Predictability

United’s tactical approach has also come under scrutiny. Barter hypothesised that United might try to sit deep and play on the counterattack, especially if Marcus Rashford plays. “Rashford typically plays high and wide, offering an out-ball, but does little defensive work,” Barter noted. This leaves United vulnerable in defensive transitions and limits their ability to press Liverpool effectively.

With potential absences in key positions, United faces tough choices in midfield and defence. “If they play Casemiro and Eriksen in midfield against our boys, good luck,” Barter remarked. Such a setup could lead to Liverpool dominating the middle of the park and forcing United into deeper defensive blocks.

United’s Probable Approach

Despite their struggles, United has managed to grind out some results, such as their 2-1 win over Manchester City earlier this season. Barter predicted a defensive and counterattacking setup, saying, “The only way for them to get a result is to sit in, frustrate us, and try to nick something on the break.” However, this approach will likely falter against Liverpool’s high press and tactical discipline.

Conclusion

Manchester United enters this fixture with numerous deficiencies in attack, defence, and overall cohesion. As Phil Barter aptly described, “They’re just looking like a mid-table side right now.” Liverpool’s tactical flexibility and superior form make them overwhelming favourites, but the nature of this fierce rivalry always leaves room for surprises.