The new season of Premier League is about to kick-off as the 20 teams get ready to fight for the title. Today, we will take a look at the season preview of the most successful English club, Manchester United. The Red Devils finished 12 points behind their noisy neighbours in 2nd place as they saw their city rivals lift the title.
Although United did not win the title, the season was a step towards progress as they look to return to their glory days under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Since the Norwegian has taken charge, there has been steady growth for United. They will look to build upon that in the season ahead, as they dream of winning their first title in the post-Ferguson era.
How Manchester United fared in 20-21?
United had a good start to their Premier League and Champions League campaign, with Bruno Fernandes and co. stamping their authority. However, things took a turn in the wrong way as Manchester United dropped down to the Europa League after losing their last 2 group fixtures. Meanwhile, in the Premier League, United did pretty well to consistently stay in the top 4.
The drop to Europa League, though disappointing turned out to be a real chance to win a silverware but they came up short in the final against Villareal. FA Cup, League Cup also saw a similar state as the team failed in the crucial stages. Perhaps, the lack of experience playing on a big stage cost them but they will only learn from it.
Having topped the table in January, United dropped down but still comfortably made the top 4 in Premier League. They lost only 6 games in their Premier League campaign, which was the lowest of all teams. Despite going trophyless, it was a clear sign of progress under Solskjaer.
Transfer Activity
The transfer window saw United secure their long-term target Jadon Sancho. Having followed the winger since last year, the Red Devils finally got their man. In yet another big transfer move, Raphael Varane switched allegiance to United after ending his 10-year stay at Real Madrid. The Frenchman, who was wanted by Sir Alex in 2013 as well, finally makes his move to the Theatre of Dreams.
The signing of Varane and Sancho is an excellent addition to the current roster of players. There was a need to find a dependent CB alongside Maguire, and the signing of Varane fits the bill. The Frenchman brings experience to the table having played and won at the highest stages of both international and club football. Sancho, who can play on both the wings will be another important aspect in the United attack going ahead.
United have also been linked with Camavinga but the deal is unlikely to go ahead. The contract extension of Edinson Cavani was a good move, as the Uruguayan impressed during his time at Manchester.
What to expect in the upcoming season?
The major issue for United in the last season was overcoming the latter stages of the competition. Semi-final and Final defeats meant United ended the season trophyless. Although having made progress last year, United will be expected to do better and win silverware.
Bruno and Sancho linking, is something that will excite the fans. Having scored the highest goals in Premier League last time around, goals will not be a problem. How Ole stabilizes the defence with Varane coming in, is something to watch out for.
This might be the season where we get the answer whether Ole is the right man to carry United? Having made progress under him, it is there to be seen whether he can lead them to a silverware. United have the squad to fight for the title, but they need to be consistent if they are to overcome the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea.
Prediction for 2021-22
Manchester United will start as one of the frontrunners for the title race. An FA Cup or League Cup trophy will go a long way in boosting the confidence of this squad.
Having disappointed last time around in the Champions League, better performance will be expected this time around. Top 4 finish should be a bare minimum for United in the Premier League.
Overcoming the tight matches against low block defences will go a long way in deciding the title challenge. However, a similar finish to last season’s position is predicted in the Premier League along with a FA Cup trophy.
