Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali showed what Manchester United are missing in midfield following his fantastic Premier League debut against Aston Villa.
The Italy international joined the Magpies from AC Milan for £55 million earlier this summer, and he made an instant impact against the Villains in the curtain-raiser.
The 23-year-old scored just six minutes into his club debut with a fine volley on the run from Anthony Gordon’s cross. He carried the momentum for the rest of the game.
Aside from his splendid goal, Tonali completed 66 touches with a passing accuracy of 89 per cent.
He delivered three crosses while winning three duels and one tackle. He made one interception.
It was a dream Premier League debut for the young Italian. The Brescia graduate showed exactly what United are missing in the centre midfield department now.
Christian Eriksen was United’s regular from the role last season, but his limited mobility off the ball was taken advantage by opposition players on several occasions.
Mason Mount has been brought in this summer to provide the solution. The Englishman is a quality player, but questions could be raised over his ability in central midfield.
The Chelsea graduate vastly played from the number 10 role at his former club. He definitely a better work rate than Eriksen, but he is not a natural from the number eight spot.
In our view, Tonali would have been a fantastic signing for United. He can also operate from defensive midfield and has the knack of creating chances alongside scoring the odd goal.
His versatility would have provided United with a solution in two key positions. Instead, the hierarchy may now need to spend on a quality holding midfielder before the transfer deadline.
Stats from Sofascore.com
