Michael Carrick takes over Man Utd: The 4-2-3-1 formation and the challenge for 5 stars.
New manager Michael Carrick maintains the 4-2-3-1 system at Manchester United, pushing Mason Mount and four other players into a tough adaptation battle after the Ruben Amorim era.
Manchester United is once again entering a rebuilding phase as Michael Carrick officially takes over as manager. Instead of continuing Ruben Amorim's philosophy, the Old Trafford club is leaning towards a return to the traditional 4-2-3-1 formation – a system that Darren Fletcher used in the last two interim matches. However, this change is not good news for everyone.
The transition from a three-man defense to a pure four-defender system demands very different requirements in terms of positioning and operational capabilities. Below are five players facing an uncertain future in Carrick's new era.
1. Patrick Dorgu: A weak point in the four-man defense.
The Danish player was once a pleasant discovery in the wing-back role, where he could utilize his speed to support the attack. However, when moved to a pure left-back position, Dorgu began to reveal serious defensive shortcomings.
In the match against Brighton, Dorgu's lack of situational awareness and positioning was thoroughly exploited, directly leading to the second goal conceded by the "Red Devils". For Carrick, a stable defensive system is a top priority, and Dorgu needs to improve his basic defensive skills if he doesn't want to lose his place.
2. Matheus Cunha: Disharmony in the Border Corridor
Matheus Cunha possesses exquisite individual technique and a high ability to create breakthroughs. However, the Brazilian star's influence has significantly diminished when pushed to the left wing in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Cunha is most dangerous when playing freely in the central midfield area (as a number 10), but this is currently Bruno Fernandes' "territory".
Under Fletcher, Cunha seemed quite out of place playing on the wing. His inability to maximize his creativity in midfield meant he was one of the biggest losers when Man Utd abandoned Amorim's two-number-10 system.
3. Ayden Heaven and the crowded center of the defense.
Switching from a three-centre-back formation to a two-centre-back formation directly reduces playing opportunities. Although Ayden Heaven has shown promising performances, he faces significant obstacles in the form of Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, and Lisandro Martinez.
Experience is what this young talent lacks to compete for a starting spot in a system that demands absolute safety. Even the expensive new signing Leny Yoro is having to wait in line for his opportunity under the new coaching staff.
4. Mason Mount: A mismatched piece of the puzzle.
Mason Mount was once expected to experience a strong resurgence under Ruben Amorim thanks to his energetic playing style, which suited the 3-4-2-1 system. However, in Carrick's 4-2-3-1 formation, Mount struggled to compete for the number 10 position with Bruno Fernandes, while his speed and ability to hug the touchline were not as highly regarded as a pure winger.
Mount's lack of rhythm in the match against Brighton is a warning sign. From a strategic asset, the English midfielder is now at risk of being relegated to a tactical reserve role.
5. Amad Diallo: The Door That Narrows
Having once shone brightly as a right wing-back, Amad Diallo now faces the harsh reality that Man Utd prioritizes using true wing forwards. With Bryan Mbeumo maintaining consistent form on the right flank, Amad's chances of starting have become very slim.
Moving him to the left wing isn't the optimal solution as Amad isn't most comfortable there. Michael Carrick will need to find a way to utilize this talent more effectively, or Amad will have to get used to coming off the bench to create impactful moments at the end of matches.