The 19th league title is done and dusted, now we look to the future at #20 and attempt to de thrown the mighty Catalan juggernaut in Europe .
Man United had a wonderful preseason in USA, going unbeaten and finishing their stay in the States with a win against the best team in the world (although a couple star names were missing). The new boys seem to be settling in quite well. In a time when our rivals are frustrated with their defensive options (Arsenal & Liverpool), going through more change and uncertainty (Chelsea), players only playing for money and lacking passion (“Money Bags” City) and star players looking for “greener pastures”(Spurs), the Champions seem to have none of the same problems. The players are happy, the club’s stability and genius has been the backbone of its success and there is a wonderful balance to the Red Devils.
There have been 3 young player added to an already talented group of champions in wonder kid David De Gea, hardy Phil Jones and the skilful Ashley Young. Add those youngster’s enthusiasm, potential and unique stills to a squad that has just “freshened up”.
Gary Neville, Paul Scholes, Edwin van der Sar retired, Wes Brown and John O”Shea have moved on to Sunderland to ply their trade under United legend, Steve Bruce.
It seems as though the existing group are as hungry as ever to win trophies, and the youngsters proved against Man City in the Community Shield that they have the metal against top teams. We have (all United fans Hope) found a long term replacement for the Dutch master Edwin van der Sar. We have added depth and youthful enthusiasm to the defence. We have, however, lost the utility of O”Shea and Brown, but the Brazilian Da Silva twins can cover left and right back and Johnny Evans has played left back for United and Internationally for Ireland. Chris Smalling had a stint at right back (He was superb on sunday "out of position") and I am sure if injuries curse us again at the back Giggs, Fletch and Valencia can cover wing back positions in the worst case scenarios too.
Out wide we have more than enough to create and score enough goals with Nani, new-boy Young, Park, Valencia and even academy graduate, Cleverly(a player that really excites me), can play across the midfield.
There is no shortage of quality wide going forward right now with Rooney and Chicharito potentially being the most potent front 2 in Europe, and Berba (Although, the joint top scorer in EPL could be on his way to Paris) Owen, Mecheda and new England International Welbeck covering, there are goals to be scored in all competitions.
Some might argue that there is a piece missing in the puzzle, that midfield is “weak”. It’s strange that a “weak” midfield has gotten to 3 Champions League finals (and a semi final) in 4 years, and a “weak” midfield was instrumental in the Champions’ winning the league again. They out played Chelsea with their “world class” combative and workman-like midfield 3 times last season, and I am sure you could count the number of touches that the Man City midfielders had on Sunday on your 2 hands... So for this “weak” midfield to improve, Sir Fergi would have to truly find a special, world class talent to play with Fletch, Carrick, Giggs and Anderson and youngster, Cleverly.
Fleet footed, vision, composure and a wonderful temperament and an eye for goal are the credentials of the player that would add to an experienced, balanced squad.
If all reports are correct, and we ignore SAF trying to defuse the situation in the media, such a player has been chosen and a certain Wesley Sneijder could be wearing the United red come September 1st... this would make us “unstoppable”, if you ask my Gooner colleague. He recently put himself up for sale (didn’t know players could do that?), so my guess is that he wants the move. There is no real replacement for the legend Paul Scholes, but Wesley Sneijder would come close to filling that hole... and adding the something special needed to de thrown the kings of Europe. The thought brings a smile to my face and a spring in my step.
Mr. Sneijder , Please come be the final piece of the puzzle and finishing touch to a masterpiece, Glory awaits you...
Fletch
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