Could Man Utd’s inconsistency finally be coming to an end?

If you were to sum up Manchester United’s season in one word, it would have to be described as inconsistent. United have strung together many impressive victories, such as beating rivals Man City twice and even gaining 3 wins over Chelsea. However, there have also been many uninspired and lacklustre performances leading to losses against the likes of Bournemouth, Watford and Burnley. In United’s next match they face Brighton, this could be seen as a potential slip up fixture, yet again highlighting their unpredictability. But this could also be a match where United are able to silence their critics and show that they can gain results on a consistent basis. 

Since the resumption of the Premier League Man Utd have seen many long-term absentees return to their starting squad, one of which is Paul Pogba. Before the postponement of football Pogba’s future at Man Utd was uncertain and it looked as though he may have been on his way out of the club. Yet, post-pandemic it seems both the club and player have recognised that it is unlikely that any club would pay the exorbitant transfer fee required to acquire Pogba’s services. So, as Pogba is back in United’s and Solskjaer’s plans and with January signing Bruno Fernandes impressing since his transfer, Man Utd have an intimidating midfield for any club in the League to come up against. The 2 playmakers could even be compared to their cross-city rivals’ duo of De Bruyne and Silva. With United having 2 players with exceptional ability and vision on the ball United will be able to dominate games and create a plethora of chances for their attackers to capitalise on. Often this season Man Utd have struggled to find openings against lower league opposition who come to Old Trafford for only 1 point, however with this midfield pair the red devils can end their curse against the smaller clubs. 

Nevertheless, a creative midfield is not all it takes to become a consistent team over night. It has been well publicised that Man United have struggled defensively this season, especially when trying to find a centre-back partner for skipper Harry Maguire. Victor Lindelöf has filled this role for the majority of the season, but it seems to be the common consensus of United fans that the Swedish international has a mistake in him. And this may be the reason why the United defence has been unsettled this season, and consequently the cause of inconsistency. Therefore, United may not be able to fully progress until they’re able to bring in reinforcements at centre back during the summer transfer window. 

There is no doubt that United are now able to field an extremely exciting 11 filled with flair and creativity. However, the question is whether their players can translate their talents into cohesive and balanced team performances which will allow them to win games which they often ‘slip up’ in. Both Bruno and Pogba will be central to this both in an attacking sense, but also by them tracking back, as they must both do their defensive duties in order to fit in the same starting side. United’s game against Brighton will give huge indication of whether Manchester United are ready to be consistent performers, or if there’s a long way to go yet.