As if the transition that Manchester United had to make under David Moyes was not hard enough, the first five games of the season where United have to face Chelsea, Liverpool and cross town rival City have made matters extremely complicated for them.
Moyes would be heading a team of United’s stature for the first time in his life and in all fairness it would have suited him had the initial matches been a little easier. But then in life what man proposes, God disposes.
But what would make matters a little smooth for Moyes would be some decent signings. United do not boast a midfield which can be termed as one of the best in the world and they need to strengthen it in order to keep their dominance in English football intact. The title no 20 was lifted with pretty ease as United landed their trophy finishing well above their rivals with several games to spare. And expecting to go in with the same team next term and especially with a mediocre midfield that United possess is in itself dangerous.
While they have already been linked with a number of players, Barcelona man Thiago Alcantara would be a great addition to the midfield setup which do not posses decent creative talents. Very recently Spanish newspaper Marca had linked Tiago to United.
They stated that “Manchester United are looking at Thiago Alcantara for next season. [The club] will not even have to enter into negotiations with Barcelona if it stumps up a figure of €18 million.”
Thiago had been a trusted lieutenant of former boss Pep Guardiola, who provided the midfielder with a breakthrough in the first team. But this season under Tito Vilanova he has managed only 15 starts which at 22 years of age is not very impressive. More than anything else he needs game time and United can offer him with exactly that.
If provided with decent opportunities, there is no doubt in anyone’s mind that Thiago can be one of the best in the business. He is a precise passer, can prove to be a very creative midfielder and change the tempo of the game in no time at all.
Although, it may be a bit difficult for him to adjust to the fast paced Premier League at first, in a matter of time he can be one of the best players for United. There is no sign that Xavi’s time is over and with Cesc Fabregas also in the pecking order, Thiago may not get the requisite opportunity in Barcelona and United could be his next destination.
In other news, United £17.5 million rated former Crystal Palace man Zaha has been in the news as his former boss and club chairman at Palace has expressed hope that the 20-year-old might be allowed to remain at Selhurst Park next season, but admits that they do not have anything in their hands. Ian Holloway already publicly voiced his opinion regarding Zaha’s future
“It’s another option, clearly that’s up to Manchester United,” he told Sky Sports News. “He’s their player now. Will we be asking? We’ll probably ask in passing but it’s really down to them. Would we love to see Wilfried back? Of course we would but he’s got a career at Manchester United and, after a few training sessions up there, I’m not sure they’ll be willing to let him out on loan.”
At-least the man added some sense at the end!