Attacking cohesion supplies the key for Manchester United charge

It’s fair to say that Manchester United have rediscovered a spark under Michael Carrick. Unbeaten in five, with 13 points collected from 15, the Reds have sailed into the coveted Champions League places.

Much of the outside conversation has focused on unity, with Lisandro Martinez enhancing this when publicly confirming the feel-good factor at Carrington.

Victories over Manchester City, Arsenal and Spurs have further solidified a sense of confidence, as the 20-time English champions continue their preparations ahead of Monday’s trip to Everton.

Similar to his ideals as a player, Carrick has emphasised fundamentals, working with Steve Holland to ensure that his players complete the basics first.

Thereafter, a natural flamboyancy and technical skillset will inevitably shine through, leading to an abundance of opportunities in the final third.

But despite my love of analysing the game to within an inch of its existence, the end goal has never changed, and that is to outscore your opponent.

For all of the time spent dissecting tactics and formations, a tally of 11 goals in the previous five outings is the shining light we applaud. And within this, we witness a surge within a formidable attacking contingent.

The numbers behind an impressive Manchester United attacking lineup.

It goes without saying that United have been good value for their attacking output in recent weeks, perplexing the majority of their rivals with a brand of free-flowing football.

Whether through the starting chemistry between Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha, Amad and Bryan Mbeumo, or the qualities observed when Benjamin Sesko arrives later in the game, few can dismiss this threat.

That’s before we even factor in the forward intent and brilliance of Patrick Dorgu before his unfortunate injury setback.

In possession, all of these players have demonstrated individual capabilities in manipulating the tempo of any fixture. In transition, there are few better at cutting an opposition defence to shreds.

Furthermore, the remarkable ability to convert dead-ball opportunities in a manner befitting the Premier League is a breath of fresh air when considering the rugby-like tactics of others.

But how has this newfound belief converted into clear-cut opportunities and positive metrics?

Statistics via sofascore.com	vs City	vs Arsenal	vs Fulham	vs Spurs	vs West Ham
Total shots	11	10	13	23	9
Big chances	6	2	3	3	1
Expected goals (xG)	2.27	0.71	1.79	1.78	0.57
Goalkeeper saves	5	0	3	8	2
Total passes	302	364	428	649	629

Fernandes and Co have fashioned 66 efforts on goal in just five fixtures, creating 15 big chances while forcing 18 saves from opposition goalkeepers.

Additionally, with a 73% conversion rate when factoring in quality goalscoring opportunities, Carrick’s side is within the top 99th percentile of this division without having to rely on penalties.

There have also been several standout moments during this period, with Dorgu and Cunha offering glimpses of their individual majesty against Arsenal.

But, by and large, much of the good work has come through calculated passages of finesse and interplay, with many players involved during impressive build-up phases.

This has become the hallmark of a new-look team, and the benefits of recruiting tried-and-tested bodies are coming to the fore under Michael.

Statistics via sofascore.com	Bruno Fernandes	Bryan Mbeumo	Matheus Cunha	Amad	Benjamin Sesko
Contributions (G-A)	1-4	3-1	2-1	0	2-0
Shots	11	11	4	7	6
Progressive carries	8	4	8	25	0
Key passes	22	6	3	4	0
Touches	360	184	150	246	25

It’s unsurprising to see Bruno leading the way as his side’s primary creator, but no longer must the Portuguese shoulder the burden on his own.

Whether through spearheading transitions with world-class control or spreading width and utilising the touchline to encourage decoy runs, Amad’s role is integral if not downright essential.

Cunha and Mbeumo offer so much from goal contributions to hold-up play, through Matheus’ remarkable ball-carrying ability or Bryan’s eye for a pass in the final third.

Crucially, both are comfortable in leading the line, and their willingness has proven invaluable.

In Sesko, we are witnessing the continued emergence of a talented young striker with the ability and potential to lead the line for a decade in Manchester.

Furthermore, unlike Rasmus Hojlund, the Slovenian has veteran teammates to dilute the immediate expectations following a difficult transition into English life.

But the sum of all moving parts distinguishes a well-oiled machine, rather than some dated ideology attributed to disregarding progress in place of individual brilliance.

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Calm heads will appreciate the potential for disappointment on any given day for any Premier League outfit. After all, it is a division that is littered with talent and the prospect of upsets from top to bottom.

Carrick couldn’t have asked for a better start to life in the Old Trafford hot seat, but he is only five games into a 17-game journey. It’s best to judge his portfolio of work in May.

Regardless, we are witnessing an attacking metamorphosis in Manchester, one reminiscent of his days playing under Sir Alex Ferguson.

As stated at the beginning, goals win games, and this is a side that appears hungry for as many as they can collect. Long may that continue.

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Photo by operations@newsimages.co.uk via depositphotos.com.