Yesterday’s match was a good prediction of the work done behind the scenes, by Ruben and the squad, over the last weeks.

As expected, the teams is improving, getting more used to the system and movements required, getting fitness levels up and, consequently, we can see more stable performances, better results.

The 1st half was more balanced, both teams with a few chances and ball possession on 50/50 as well.

From the 1st half, I would reinforce the rollercoaster we can still see on the team – meaning, they seem dominant and controlling the match and, then, the next minute they’re struggling.

It happened with both teams, to be honest, and that’s also a great demonstration of the quality of The Premier League.

Additionally, as we’ve seen in these last matches, Højlund hasn’t been yet able to adapt to the system and needs for his role to be of value to the team.

Although he can press in higher pace, than the only internal competitor Zirkzee, the truth is that he struggles with connecting the Game with the rest of the team.

And this role is very, very important.

Ruben needs someone powerful and ready to press, to find the space behind the defenders, but also someone that can hold the ball, that can connect the Game.

Curiously, on Saturday, their neighbors from Manchester – Manchester City – were able to score a goal that represents a lot of what is required in that position, where the ball is with Ederson, all the closest passing lines were marked by Chelsea players, and then a long pass is done directly to Haaland (positioned right at the centre of the field), that holds the ball and the CB, resists to the pressure and then makes a clean pass to Foden that goes ahead to the goal.

Yes, there were mistakes done by Chelsea players, but regardless the other team, Haaland did the job that is required when a Striker is getting the ball with his/her back to attacking goal – hold the ball, and the pressure, and connect as fast and clean as possible.

I use the word clean in passing a lot, but just for the reference I mean a pass that provides to the player that receives the ball a very good chance to continue the play forwards. Normally, to the midfielders, that receive the ball facing the attacking goal and with a panoramic perspective of the field and positions of the players, but it may even be to the wide players (wingers or side backs) and allowing them a chance to go on 1v1 or combinations ahead (overlapping, 1+2, etc).

It was no surprise that Højlund was out at the beginning of 2nd half.

But, I keep thinking that he has the potential to reach a good level under Amorim.

He’s got it all, still very young and with the abilities needed for the role.

He’s frustrated now, it’s normal, but I wouldn’t give up on him just yet.

The 2nd half was slightly different with Man United being more dominant and creating more opportunities to score, with a more fluid style of play.

Then Martinez scored a great goal and then, from there, almost a total attacking eclipse from United and Fulham came on full power.

The biggest surprise and the reason why I believe we are now starting to see the work done in December and January is because the team kept stable and comfortable in defending, even if not perfect at times with the defensive line and midfielders with a greater gap than it should be.

But they were emotionally stable, focused.

They are getting used to (and comfortable) with defending, suffering.

It surely reminds me more and more the 1 year of Ruben under Sporting CP.

Good win yesterday, that’s for sure!

Now, the biggest concern about United for me is the window transfer!

And that’s the main reason I haven’t write anything after the midweek matche against Rangers last week.

My texts will just be repetitive, until something changes, the players are different and the team have clear chances to improve significantly.

Yes, the team will slightly improve with time, players will get used to the system and some of them (as I’ve always mentioned) will be a good surprise.

Certainly!

Moreover, players like Højlund, Mainoo or Garnacho have potential and can be important assets for the Club, if they always keep the right attitude.

But, Manchester United is a giant.

I keep saying this.

A sleepy, yet giant Club.

And needs players with the ability and the hunger to take the Club to where it needs to be!

So, finally, I have 2 big concerns about this market:
. First, there are not enough player going out. Antony leaving is not the revolutionary tactic that needs to take place. Question is: does the market recognize the quality of United players? Certainly not, although I hear and read a lot about interest from the biggest teams in the world… Really? So why do they don’t pay? Anthony leaving to the 10th positioned Club at La Liga should be an eye-opener to all about standards…

. Second, not only there’s not 1 player signed, as there’s almost none reference about players being close to sign. It’s a desperate silent around this transfer window. 

It’s frustrating.

On this note, I know how Ruben works. 

As I mentioned before, when Ruben sets a target, he doesn’t go ahead with anyone else than the player targeted.

He rather waiting for the player he wants, than to take the most similar profile.

And this can also impact potential negotiations around players.

Let’s wait and see!