Review: Tactical Analysis of Newcastle vs Man United
Dazzling Allan Saint-Maximin too evasive for Man United, as Rashford fires blank!
Manchester United suffered a disappointing 2-0 loss to Newcastle United on Sunday, as the race for a top-four finish in the Premier League became more intense.
Despite Newcastle's winless streak in their last six Premier League games against Manchester United, they put on a spirited and resolute display, producing a clean sheet in consecutive Premier League games against United since May 1997. Goals from J. Willock in the 65th minute and C. Wilson's goal in the 88th minute were enough to secure the win for Newcastle, taking them above United on the table based on goal difference.
One of the problems for United was their 4-2-3-1 formation, which was built on a Casemiro and Christian Eriksen double pivot system. While Casemiro acted as the deep-lying midfielder whose work was to mop up the defense and act as the third center back, Eriksen's role was to act as a regista, directing and controlling the midfield, and linking up with Bruno, freeing him off some defensive duties when necessary. This allowed Bruno to play as a roaming playmaker without the double pivot of the duo. However, when Casemiro is absent, United tends to struggle. Sabitzer is still adapting and does not have the tactical discipline, and McTominay is more of a ball carrier with no creativity. Newcastle were able to dominate through the spaces in the midfield, with the midfield trio having a good day. United need to find an alternative to their dependence, as Manchester United have lost four of their eight Premier League games without Casemiro this season, compared to three of 19 when he has played.
Another issue for United was the absence of Rashford, who is an integral part of their attacking force. United struggle to score goals when he doesn't score, and when teams play with a low block, they have a chance of limiting his potency. United need to find a plan B, or other players need to step up and ensure goals can come in. Fabian Schär had more touches in the opposition box than Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and Jadon Sancho combined. This shows United's lack of creativity in the final third.
Newcastle had an excellent game plan, playing low to block to prevent long balls and counter-attacks, and then playing fast counter with fast players. They also tend to move the ball forward with their midfielders, not mostly sideways. With players like Allan Saint-Maximin, Newcastle has dangerous pacy players with the ability to take on opponents one-on-one. He created six chances, won four duels, made two successful take-ons, won two fouls, created two big chances, and got an assist. He is slowly recovering his pre-injury form.
In conclusion, Manchester United's loss to Newcastle United highlights some of the issues they need to address if they want to compete for a top-four finish in the Premier League. They need to find an alternative to their dependence on Casemiro and Rashford and find more creative solutions in the final third. Meanwhile, Newcastle needs to be flexible in its tactics to continue its strong run of form.