First match is done and result was a 1-1 draw at Ipswich Town.
Surely not the best result, some choking performances.

But also, some positives to take.

Firstly, the idea is possible.

No news here.

Although it’s still far from perfect, the second half gave hope to the future outcome of this teams, when all becomes more automatic and players profile are a better fit to the needs of the system and dynamics.

Secondly, Ruben must be in shock.

He mentioned the physicality aspect of the squad and that becomes even more relevant when, as we all know, the space and time to actually train is very limited at high performance football, when you play every 3 days.

On the other side, when talking about quality, the reality is that, probably, few players of this Man United squad would be part of the squad in any other era of the club.

To better understand Ruben strategy and formation, with the famous 3-4-3, as Ruben stated multiple times, the most important is not the system itself but the dynamics that are created. 

Not only offensively but also defensively – both a big concern now – where the players profile is a big problem.

I stand out a few (but important) issues to address.

Casemiro and Eriksen are definitely not the profile required for that position of the double pivot in the midfield, and the moment that Ugarte came on the field, the difference was immense.

The 3 Centre-backs used are, not to say less, limited.

Limited in their actions, decision-making and understanding of the positioning, which is surprising for players at this level. 

I missed the amount of times where the defensive line is completely out positioned, similar to a electrocardiogram exam full of “ups and downs”, or the amount of times Matthijs de Ligt received the ball facing Onana…

Finally, Rashford seemed a serious concern.

I can’t recall many duels that he’s won, even fought for, which made me think how much is he investing in this new Man United.

Maybe he can just feel that’s not his best position or role.

From here, taking in consideration that all the above mentioned are positioned in the central corridor, is clear a signal that this will take time and, probably, money.

If Yoro and Martinez, just as Ugarte and Mainoo, seem to have their life easy to get in to the starting 11, it honestly doesn’t seem to be enough to have this team where Ruben wants.

Some positives, though. 

1. Just as I predicted, Amad Diallo will have an important opportunity to play regularly, with a profile similar to Geny Catamo or even Geovany Quenda at Sporting CP.

2. Bruno is going to play an important role in this scheme, having the freedom to play closer to the goal, but also to drop and get the ball from behind to help on the build-up. 

3. Lastly, Højlund will have an opportunity to be important, despite his technical difficulties and poor decision-making. 

His work ethic, offensive movements, capacity of winning duels and understanding of the game that Ruben wants (specially on the capacity to work as an offensive reference, pinning defenders and promoting combinations with the midfielders) can make him an important element.

The next 2 window markets are going to be extremely important, and there will be adjustments to complete.

A good number of players will have their future in other Clubs.

They are simply not good enough, committed enough or hungry enough.

From Sporting CP, I’m sure Ruben misses Diomande, Gonçalo Inácio, Hujlmand, Pote, Trincāo and, naturally, Gyökeres.

But, surely, being at Man United opens different doors, different market opportunities. 

And Ruben will have a larger spectrum of influence and resources to sign new-players.

And he’s not here to be a nice guy.

He’s on his way to make Man United great again.