The hosts analyze Manchester United's recent loss to Tottenham, discussing pressing tactics, defensive breakdowns, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka's performance. They also share their dream travel destinations, favorite sports, and reflect on the team's performance.
Pressing was not the main reason for United's loss, as it was overall effective and not a significant issue in the match.
Defensive mistakes and execution issues played a significant role in United's loss, with individual errors leading to chances and goals for Spurs.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka's struggles in build-up play, targeted by opponents, create challenges for United's transition play and highlight the need for alternative right-back options.
Deep dives
Pressing was not a major factor in United's loss to Spurs
The podcast episode highlights that pressing was not the main reason for United's loss to Spurs. Although there were some individual and tactical breakdowns in the press, the overall performance in pressing was not to blame for the defeat. United won the ball back or contained the opposition on most pressing attempts, and the statistical analysis showed that pressing was not a significant issue in the match.
Defensive errors and execution issues impacted United's performance
The podcast discusses how defensive errors and execution issues from players like Casemiro and Ericsson had a negative impact on United's performance. There were mistakes made in out-of-possession situations, and these errors led to chances and goals for Spurs. The podcast also highlights the poor attacking execution from players like Garnacho and Antony, who struggled to make good decisions and convert opportunities. Overall, defensive mistakes and execution issues played a significant role in United's loss.
Issues with Aaron Wan-Bissaka's build-up play
The podcast analyzes Aaron Wan-Bissaka's struggles in build-up play, specifically in dealing with Tottenham's pressing tactics. Spurs deliberately targeted Wan-Bissaka to force him into making decisions with the ball, and he often failed to execute effectively. The podcast suggests that this targeted approach by opponents and Wan-Bissaka's limitations in build-up play create challenges for United's transition play. The hosts also discuss the need for alternatives, such as using Diogo Dalot or seeking new right-back options.
Mixed performances from attacking players
The podcast acknowledges mixed performances from various attacking players, including Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Mason Mount. While Mount showcased good press-resistance and tactical execution, other players struggled with decision-making and execution. Garnacho and Antony, in particular, faced challenges in turning pressing regains into chances and goals. The hosts highlight the need for improvement in the attacking phase and potentially considering changes in the lineup.
Overall assessment and outlook
The podcast offers an overall assessment that, despite the loss, there are reasons not to be overly concerned. United outperformed Spurs in terms of shots and expected goals and showed improvement compared to the previous match against Wolves. The hosts believe that the team's tactical approach is evolving and that individual performances will improve over time. They express confidence that United will bounce back and emphasize the need for patience and context in evaluating the team's performance.
This week, we rewatched the loss at Tottenham in slow and thorough detail for you, and brought back a report on United's pressing, midfield dynamics, forward play, buildup issues, and whether you should be worried about any of these.
