This will probably be my most controversial take, but I think Manchester United finish ninth.
Although United have a ton of individual quality, I think the balance of their squad is quite poor. Their attack is obviously full of quality so I don’t have many concerns there. However, the midfield and defense, has far too many holes for my liking. Baleba is probably United's most important player from a tactical perspective. Finding the form he had two seasons ago and staying fit throughout the season is vital for United's success. This uncertainty is one of the biggest reasons I struggle to see them being consistent enough to finish in a European spot. And don’t get me wrong, Santos and Tielemans are good individual players who can contribute going forward. But, similar to Chelsea, I’m not convinced United have enough midfielders who can cover the pitch quickly, win enough second balls, and consistently stop transitions. Outside of Baleba (Mount as well but, he's far too unreliable). Im also very Weary and unconvinced about United's defense. United are still relying heavily on a back four that has essentially been together for years. And to add on, their defensive depth isn’t particularly convincing either. Over a full Premier League season, especially while competing in the Champions League, I think those weaknesses will eventually get exposed.
I also think United’s squad is best suited to a 4-3-3, but that creates another problem because it can somewhat nullify Bruno’s impact. That’s ultimately why I’m so low on United. I think they have enough individual quality to beat almost anyone on their day, but I’m not convinced they have the balance to consistently perform at a high level. Their summer window was also very underwhelming relative to what they needed. Combining the lack of defensive and midfield balance with both the Prem and CL football, I struggle seeing united maintain consistency throughout the season.
I think United's best/most balance XI is:
Sesko
Rashford/Cunha Bruno Amad
Mainoo Baleba
Dalot Heaven Maguire Yoro
Lammens
@flameosumeet@yakobper90 He's definitely made mistakes this season and got it wrong today but, he's gonna be the guy to lead us to success. Princpals and structure are there just needs time.
I think Henderson is doing well but, I think Lavia elevates are team even more. We couldn't build up through the midfield today. Think a lot that has to do with Hendersons inability to turn nor link up with Caicedo. Lavia will improve our central progression plus play more line breakers into our attack.
The football that Chelsea played with the ball in this match was pretty awful. Henderson-Caicedo will not generate enough. Lavia has to come into the team for Henderson.
@PremLeaguePanel No central progression with Henderson and Caicedo. Henderson shouldn't be starting games over Lavia. Joao was a big loss today aswell. We missed his hold up and link up play. Emegha needs to come back fast if Joao is hurt.
I think Henderson is doing well but, I think Lavia elevates are team even more. We couldn't build up through the midfield today. Think a lot that has to do with Hendersons inability to turn nor link up with Caicedo. Lavia will improve our central progression plus play more line breakers into our attack.
Obviously nuance is impossible on this app but you can think Alonso got it very wrong today and can improve on the season without wanting him out. You were all glazing him after the last 2 games and now he’s a fraud
Wendy will be fine. He's still a very good player. Mitch Johnson just needs to adjust the way he utilizes him offensively. Wemby will also have to adjust his game a little bit to make it more efficient. Spurs are fine, can't really assess them without Tobias Harris.
Aaron Gordon shot 27% from 3 his first season in the NBA. Was the guy that you dare to shoot. Now he drains them off the dribble no problem. His development as a shooter has been incredible
To be a NBA guard being able to read a pick n roll, having a change of speed/Control and being able to consistently shoot are the three keys to be an efficient NBA guard. Brayden Burries and Keaton Wagler showcased these abilities in limited minutes last night. With more playing time and experience, I expect both to be the focal point of their offensives, consistently dictating the pace of the game and creating opportunities for their teammates.
The pelicans are so hard to predict. They have the talent to finish in a playoff spot but, alot of there players have really bad habits. Time will tell how serious this team is. A lot of it will be down to coaching as well.
The shot making and self creation of this T wolves team is very dangerous. Similar to the pacers, teams with multiple shot creators/shot makers are so hard to beat. I'm worried about the Wolves non Gobert minutes but other than that this team can beat anybody.
With our absurd technical quality and clinical attackers, I think our current squad is built for long term success. We're an Alex Scott signing away from being able to compete in both the Prem and Champions league. We can match any team in the world in terms of Physicality, technically ability and with individual quality.
I think he can get consistent offensively if he stops dribbling so much. He'll always be to weak to post up and seal defenders. He needs to stop driving/putting the ball on the floor, cause he either turns the ball over or looses balance. Instead he should model his game after Porgzigis and KD in a way. Mid post turn around off an action, Spot up/ Rhythm threes and low post screen actions for easy layup/Dunks. Wemby and the Spurs Coaching staff will have to adjust his game in order to win. His current offensive production isn't good enough to lead the Spurs to a Championship imo.
@balldontstop Yeah, even though they won it's very clear that will be a problem in the playoffs. Need a better second options, maybe someone like Zach Lavine who can help take pressure off of Cade.
Still needs time to develop but he should be Liverpools number one midfield target. Complements Gravenbrech very well and would improve the balance of their midfield a lot.