Manchester United, on the other hand, have always stuck with the 4-4-2 formation. Sir Alex Ferguson has implemented this formation for more than 25 years now. Although United choose the 4-3-3 sometimes during their European fixtures, the 4-4-2 always remains their default formation.
When this transfer season began, United were speculated to be interested in Eden Hazard and Shinji Kagawa. Both these players technically do not fit into the default 4-4-2. Both Kagawa and Hazard play in the ‘false striker’ position just behind the striker. Although both Kagawa and Hazard could play in the wings, they are outright attacking midfielders. Considering that United are not looking for wingers at the moment, both Kagawa and Hazard will not be competent enough in playing at the central midfield of a 4-4-2 formation.
So, it looks most likely that Sir Alex Ferguson will be changing his tactics into a 4-2-3-1 to accommodate his latest signing Kagawa.
Last season, we saw the starting of this formation when Michael Carrick and Paul Scholes played in a deeper role rather than a Central role in United’s 4-4-2. So, most probably they will play as defensive midfielders in the 4-2-3-1 this season. We see Xabi Alonso and Sami Khedira do it for Real Madrid. Although, it would be cruel to expect the same from Carrick or Scholes, they should be able to fit into the role.
In the wings, United have Nani, Young and Valencia who will do the job. Kagawa has been signed for the false striker role but Tom Cleverley too could fit into that position after the promise he showed earlier last season.
What this formation means is that Wayne Rooney can finally do what he does best – score goals. Last season, Rooney was asked to play in the midfield to provide the creative spark. But, he was asked to do it mainly because United lacked the personnel to do it. Although Rooney made his work through his sheer work rate, he only ended up providing four assists. So, naturally, Rooney’s talents should be used up top. Kagawa’s signing will enable Rooney to do just that.
The game is leaning towards the 4-2-3-1. The attacking midfielder role has become indispensable to top sides. Juan Mata is there for Chelsea, David Silva is there for Manchester City, Mesut Ozil is there for Real Madrid and Thomas Muller is there for Bayern Munich. If United don’t want to fall behind, they have to embrace the 4-2-3-1 and they have shown clear intent to do that with the signing of Shinji Kagawa.
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