Manchester United are on the verge of securing the double transfer of Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, a move that could lead to a significant shift in the team’s formation.
The summer transfer window has been quieter than expected for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his new board in their first season at the helm, but momentum has picked up this week with the imminent arrivals of De Ligt and Mazraoui.
The Red Devils will pay an initial £38.6 million for De Ligt, while Mazraoui will cost £12.8 million upfront. These signings represent exceptional business for United, who have managed to bring in two experienced and high-quality defenders for less than the £70 million Everton demanded for Jarrad Branthwaite.
These additions will not only bolster United’s defense but also offer manager Erik ten Hag greater tactical flexibility. With more defensive options available, Ten Hag could opt for a 3-5-2 formation, enhancing United’s solidity at the back while providing opportunities for dynamic wing-play.
The acquisition of De Ligt will be particularly crucial, as he will be one of two new centre-backs added this summer, addressing last season’s injury crisis that left the defense depleted.
With Lisandro Martinez and young Leny Yoro, United could form a balanced back three, with De Ligt providing stability in the center, supported by the pace and technical ability of Martinez and Yoro on either side.
Despite Yoro being sidelined for three months due to a fractured metatarsal, his eventual return will enable Ten Hag to field a strong defensive trio, allowing for a more versatile approach. Additionally, Harry Maguire, who has shown his capability in a back-three system, adds further depth to the squad.
Mazraoui’s arrival will add another dimension to United’s wing-back options. Alongside Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw, Mazraoui will provide the attacking thrust on the flanks that Ten Hag desires.
Though Shaw is currently injured, Mazraoui’s versatility means he can cover the left side effectively, as he has done for Morocco. Once Shaw returns, the competition between Dalot and Mazraoui for the right wing-back position will be fierce.
In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo is expected to partner Casemiro, who looks rejuvenated ahead of the new season. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes will continue to orchestrate play from the attacking midfield role, with the newly signed Joshua Zirkzee and Marcus Rashford, along with Alejandro Garnacho, leading the line in a potential two-man strike force.
With these new additions, Ten Hag now has the resources to implement a 3-5-2 formation by choice rather than necessity, offering United a more versatile and balanced tactical setup for the upcoming season.
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