The starting 11 was, probably, the closest to the best performers under Ruben, so far.
Except for Yoro that has rarely played, but is a big hope at Old Trafford.

And probably unfair to Mazraoui, that has performed well under the circumstances, but will find his role harder under this system, if everyone is fit, because he’s not the typical CB and doesn’t offer what is required for the wingers.

The fact that you are closer to your best starting 11 created a buzz around this game, regardless their recent loss against Arsenal where there were some positives, as we spoke before.

Secondly, with recent developments being clear, all United fans expected a great win.

However, it all came down to reality from the 1st minute, with Forest 1st goal.

The first half was dominated by United, but regardless their improvements on their attacking principles (ie. the first goal that is very clear example of that) it keeps being inconsistent, or sometimes clearly unstable. 

Yes, you end up the game with 70% plus of ball possession, more shots or corners but, besides the 1st half at times, could you feel that you’re in absolute control and dominance?

I wouldn’t say so.

There are a lot of loose ends, a lot of players that are simply not on the level that is required.

Additionally, the fact that now everyone understand there’s a clear strategy, plan and a style of play it creates a feeling of accountability on everyone’s shoulders and individual mistakes, or performances, become also clearer to analyze.

Majority of the time, not for the best side.

From Onana to Zirkzee, things become clearer and clearer.

To finish, some thoughts:
The team (ie. Starting 11) will become more stable in the coming weeks, as experiments, or all sorts of trials will become less common, mainly at the League.

January market is arriving, and I’m expecting a few changes – most likely a few players exiting the Club, with the likes of, at least, Anthony, Eriksen, Casemiro and a few others.

Probably, 1 or 2 signings, but I’m expecting less activity here in January.

The back 3 need more quality, and I’m expecting some signing there in the near future.

Another CM is needed, as well, urgently.

The attacking needs a serious improvement.

Garnacho keeps showing difficulty in being an associative player at the same time as he needs to have more impact on attacking last third, either by assists, goals, dribbling, etc.

Zirkzee and Rashford are not players that are adding anything to the team at the moment, with Rashford being a bigger disappointment for his performances, but mainly for his attitude and almost disinterest.

As I’ve said before, Ruben has the power to decide.

And he will.

Take a step back, relax.

This will take a general effort and understanding, of time and money to invest in the right profiles.

But, it will come.