Man Utd's NEW 4-2-4 Explained

Summary

In this video, Statman Dave explores Manchester United's new 4-2-4 defensive structure, highlighting its effectiveness in addressing last season's defensive issues. The analysis covers how the formation, with key signings and tactical adjustments by manager Erik ten Hag and assistant Ralf Rangnick, creates a more compact defense, forces turnovers, and facilitates fast counterattacks. The video also discusses the impact of personnel changes and the importance of individual player contributions to the success of the new system.

Takeaways

• 😀 Manchester United's new 4-2-4 formation is designed to address defensive issues from the previous season, where they conceded more goals and allowed more shots on goal.
• 🏆 The appointment of Ruan van Nistelrooy as assistant manager brings a defensive structure that was successful at PSV, characterized by a compact block and high challenge intensity.
• 🔄 The 4-2-4 pressing structure is a man-to-man setup that starts from a 4-2-3-1 formation, with the number 10 joining the striker and wingers pushing forward to press the fullbacks and opposition's pivot players.
• 🚫 The new system utilizes cover shadows and curve runs to force the opposition into central spaces, making it harder for them to play through Manchester United's lines.
• ⚽️ Manchester United's defenders adopt a higher defensive line to reduce space for the opposition, complemented by the mobility and one-on-one defending skills of new summer signings.
• 🔝 The goalkeeper's role is also adapted to sweep off the line more, in line with the high defensive line and pressing strategy.
• 🤝 The 4-2-4 formation creates a more compact and narrow central area, forcing turnovers and counterattacking opportunities in dangerous positions.
• 🛡️ The structure aims to block passes to the opposition's pivot players and force them to play risky balls into midfield, where Manchester United can win the ball back.
• 🔄 The formation's adaptability allows Manchester United to transition effectively between high, mid, and low defensive blocks, dealing with various attacking threats.
• 🌟 Key player recruitments, such as Casemiro and Tyrell Malacia, have improved Manchester United's ability to press effectively and defend with more pace and athleticism.
• 👏 The new defensive structure has been well-received by the players, leading to improved counter-pressing and a hunger to win the ball back, creating more counterattacking situations.

Q & A

What was the main defensive issue for Manchester United last season?

Manchester United's defense was problematic last season, as they conceded 36% more goals than in their first season under Eric ten Hag. They also allowed more shots on goal than any team except Sheffield United.

How did injuries impact Manchester United's pressing structure last season?

Injuries disrupted Manchester United's pressing structure, leading to a drop in performance. They ranked 11th in the Premier League for passes allowed per defensive action (PPDA) and 8th for challenge intensity.

Who was appointed as an assistant manager to help address Manchester United's defensive issues?

Ruud van Nistelrooy was appointed as an assistant manager to help improve Manchester United's defense, leveraging his experience with PSV's successful defensive strategies.

What are the key features of the new 4-2-4 pressing structure implemented by Manchester United?

The new 4-2-4 pressing structure is a man-to-man setup that relies on individual player performance. It includes a higher defensive line, the use of cover shadows and curve runs, and an emphasis on forcing opponents to play into central spaces where Manchester United can regain possession effectively.

How does the new 4-2-4 structure benefit Manchester United's defensive line?

The new structure benefits the defensive line by adopting a higher position, reducing the space available for the opposition and working well with the mobile and skilled summer signings who excel in one-on-one situations.

What advantages does the new 4-2-4 structure bring to Manchester United in terms of defending?

The new structure makes Manchester United harder to play through by blocking off the center of the pitch, forcing opponents to play more risky balls into midfield, and creating high turnovers that lead to dangerous counterattacking situations.

How does the 4-2-4 structure help Manchester United deal with cut-backs?

The 4-2-4 structure allows Manchester United to deal with cut-backs more effectively by dropping aggressively into a 4-4-2 formation, with additional players protecting the fullbacks and putting pressure on the opposition's winger.

What is the role of the goalkeeper in the new defensive structure?

The goalkeeper, such as Andre Onana, is encouraged to sweep off his line more in the new structure, which helps in starting Manchester United's attacks and recycling possession more effectively.

How has the recruitment of new players influenced Manchester United's ability to implement the 4-2-4 pressing structure?

The recruitment of players like Casemiro, Tyrell Malacia, and Lisandro Martínez has improved Manchester United's ability to press effectively, as these players are skilled in one-on-one situations, have good pace, and can lead a defensive structure from a leadership perspective.

What impact has the new defensive structure had on Manchester United's players in terms of buying into the system?

The new defensive structure has led to players buying into the system, showing a hunger to win the ball back and improving counter-pressure, as evidenced by multiple players quickly swarming to regain possession after losing the ball.

How does the 4-2-4 structure create new counterattacking opportunities for Manchester United?

The 4-2-4 structure creates new counterattacking opportunities by forcing turnovers in central midfield and by having the wingers break in behind the opposition's defensive line, leading to quick transitions and goal-scoring chances.