Defeat in the perennial Community Shield may upset some, but the manner of the Manchester United performance has left many with a sense of positivity ahead of the upcoming campaign.
Naturally, supporters want to beat their rivals, and following pre-season defeats to Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City, an inevitable level of dismay has surfaced.
Ultimately, this is nothing new – we are discussing the media-favourite topic of the 20-time English champions, but sensationalism can take a back seat today.
United were good yesterday – very good for large patches – without a recognised left-back and striker on the field, alongside several players acquiring their first pre-season run out.
Pep Guardiola’s side also missed starting names, but the sum of all parts equalled a more than promising outing for the Reds.
Erik ten Hag is close to reuniting with a pair of former stars, and his captain is on the cusp of committing his long-term future to the club.
Plenty will focus on negativity because that is what predominantly sells, but in preparation for a Fulham encounter on Friday – the Old Trafford faithful have much to look forward to.
A style of play
A common gripe amongst supporters has been a lack of identity within the side.
Despite the final result at Wembley, transitions were scintillating, one-touch football accompanied undeniable movement, and a style of play was evident.
It was achieved without a hitman to lead the line and was good enough to slice through the heart of any defence.
In Amad Diallo, football purists are understandably excited. He exhibits the traits of an extraordinary talent with a wise head on his young shoulders.
At times yesterday, it appeared he was a veteran playing alongside younger opponents.
For those who committed to the pre-season tour of America, this has been evident throughout and sets an exciting tone for the start of the domestic calendar.
He is one of many green shoots in the attacking third, with the majesty of Alejandro Garnacho on show following his introduction. The Argentine embodies so much of the winger of old, delighting audiences with his insistence to terrorise his markers.
Marcus Rashford didn’t have his best day at the office – but he got into the correct positions and, on another day, would have scored a brace. Do not dwell on missed opportunities – support and encourage him to excel.
Remember, this is a side without Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee to lead the line. The prospect of a number nine to bully and dictate has to excite even the most avid grumblers.
Further recruits
Having welcomed the arrival of Zirkzee and Leny Yoro, Ten Hag is close to acquiring two of his long-term targets – Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui.
The Bayern Munich duo have spent ample time under the guidance of the Dutchman while at Ajax and present an undeniable boost of quality.
At 24, De Ligt has won domestic titles in the Netherlands, Italy and Germany, alongside 45 senior international appearances for Oranje.
His talent is immense, and the prospective partnership alongside Lisandro Martinez – with Yoro in rotation – propels United amongst the elite in central defensive options in Europe.
Mazraoui has also tasted success in Amsterdam and Munich, with the versatile full-back capable on either flank.
He played a starring role for Morocco in their charge towards the 2022 World Cup semi-final in Qatar – with many acknowledging him amongst the best-attacking full-backs in the game.
Both players are eager to represent the North West giants and can play a starring role in a potentially memorable campaign.
A commitment to the cause
Despite the many glaring signs of the hierarchy committing to the success of Manchester United, some still require convincing.
Thankfully, their plans have assured Bruno Fernandes, with the Portuguese captain set to commit his long-term future to the club.
Per transfer mogul Fabrizio Romano, an agreement has been reached with Fernandes to extend his deal until 2027 with an option for a further year.
His presence at the heart of Ten Hag’s side is immeasurable, and his talent at 29 is comparable with any other creative asset in the game.
Furthermore, as we exclusively brought you at the beginning of July, chiefs are eager to finalise an extension for Kobbie Mainoo, with a deal provisionally agreed before the European Championships.
Like Bruno, the 19-year-old is integral to the club’s success and represents a positive indication of a forward-thinking plan.
Both are happy at Old Trafford and recognise the ambitions of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos revolution.
Like anything, success is never a guarantee. Even the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson encountered stumbling blocks throughout his tenure in Manchester.
But, for the first time in two decades, a beacon of positivity at the Theatre of Dreams inspires hope.
Whether it is mainstream media or ‘supporters’ who thrive on the necessity for clickbait through notoriety – ignore it!
Football is food for the soul, and Manchester United belong at the head of the table. There is no naivety here – there is work to do – but there is positivity, and it would be foolish to disregard it.
Let us know how you feel in the comments or across our social channels.
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