Man United Exploiting 1532

This weeks analysis comes from Old Trafford and the Premier League fixture of Manchester United vs Sheffield United.

This was very much a one sided game with Man United at their devastating best at times.

Sheffield United set up in a 1532 shape, operating a mid-low block. Man United (14231 ) overcame this formation by exploiting wide areas where Sheffield United lacked numbers.

This was achieved by a number of ways

• DM Matic dropping between CBs in build up creating a 3v2 overload

• DMs dropping to side of front 2 which advances full backs

• Full backs dropping deeper in build up to overload

• Interchanging between wide players confused Sheffield United’s wing backs

• Ball played in behind down the sides to exploit space

• Create 1v1s with Rashford and Wan Bissaka to use speed

Quick passing, intelligent movement and understanding where the opposition were outnumbered allowed Solskjaer to tactically dominate Sheffield United who looked poor on the day. With the Sheffield United strikers showing United out wide it backfired as United capitalized. An alternative might have been to funnel United inside in build up to where Sheffield United had the numbers. Also perhaps dropping a striker to the midfield and using a 1541 shape would have helped add more protection to midfield and give the Sheffield United wing backs more support.

A one sided affair but signs of hope for Manchester United. If they can finish the season strong and recruit well in the summer teams above them will be turning their heads.