Danny Murphy believes Manchester United still have weaknesses in defence despite the signing of Raphael Varane.
United got their 2020-21 campaign off to a perfect start as they thrashed old rivals Leeds United 5-1 at Old Trafford, with Bruno Fernandes getting a hat-trick.
Ahead of kick-off, new signing Raphael Varane was officially unveiled with the former Real Madrid star the club’s latest summer recruit following the arrival of Jadon Sancho.
Varane joins United as one of Europe’s most decorated defenders, having won four Champions Leagues and three La Liga titles with Real Madrid in addition to the World Cup with France.
He joins countryman Paul Pogba in Manchester, with the midfielder providing four assists in a devastating performance against Leeds.
Former Liverpool and Fulham midfielder Murphy says Pogba must now show he can maintain those levels of performances – also questioning whether the arrival of Varane is enough to improve United defensively.
Assessing United’s title challenge in his column for The Mail, Murphy wrote: ‘United did to Leeds what Leeds did to other teams last season.
‘There was a freshness to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team, they kept winning the ball back with real intensity and had the quality to make their possession count.
‘We all know Paul Pogba can be magical. Four assists against Leeds is a brilliant start to the season but he’s got to show consistency if United are to maintain a challenge.
‘Marcus Rashford’s injury means Pogba can play on the left with less defensive responsibilities.
‘United were content to play for goalless draws against the big teams last season but to take the next step they may have to be more adventurous without shipping goals.
‘The signing of Raphael Varane will help, but I am still not convinced about them defensively.
‘Having fans back at Old Trafford seems to have helped them. When Leeds equalised, they went through the gears and were rampant.’
MORE : Paul Scholes makes Paul Pogba contract prediction after Manchester United masterclass
MORE : Bruno Fernandes sends message to Raphael Varane following Manchester United unveiling
For more stories like this, check our sport page
Follow Metro Sport across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
0 Commentaires