Transfers at Old Trafford are starting to pickup pace again – the latest of them being Thiago Alcantara to Manchester United. Donny van de Beek to United seems all but done now, but the Red Devils must not stop. A player of Thiago’s ilk is available once a blue moon – even rarer for a price tag of just €30 million.
Thiago is simply one of the best midfielders in the world. He was arguably the best player in the 2020 Champions League final. The Bayern #6 is still only 29 years old and is not showing any signs of decline.
Thiago is best in the build-up phase of the game – helping his team progress the thirds and create goal-scoring chances. He not only has an incredible eye for a pass but also has the technical ability to execute them.
The Spaniard is simply a press resistant magician who keeps things ticking over in midfield. He recycles possession efficiently and dictates the tempo of a game. United could certainly do with more stable heads in midfield. He had a passing accuracy of over 90% last season. He also averaged one key pass per game in all competitions last season. [WhoScored]
Thiago has been part of a very successful double midfield pivot at Bayern Munich – the same midfield system which Ole Gunnar Solskjaer employs at Manchester United. He was often partnered with a more energetic and physical partner in the form of Joshua Kimmich or Leon Goretzka. At Old Trafford, his options would be Nemanja Matic or Paul Pogba. It makes perfect sense.
Manchester United possess youth like James Garner and Dylan Levitt coming through the ranks – neither of whom are ready for first-team football. Scott Mctominay had an excellent season but is still not a confirmed starter. Fred’s energy is also vital but even he struggles for consistency – the same can be said for Paul Pogba. And of course, Nemanja Matic is not getting any younger. Thiago would step in and round off the midfield – allowing the youngsters to go out on loan and be a stabiliser in the middle of the park for Solskajer.
It makes perfect sense, given Thiago’s maturity, style of play and especially the price tag. It is all on Ed Woodward and the board to get the deal over the line…
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