How a new signing lifts up a team! Record signing Juan Mata enjoyed a winning debut on Tuesday as his new club recorded a 2-0 victory at home to Cardiff City in the Premier League which takes them seventh in the league table, sixth behind fourth placed Liverpool. But, can the Red Devils still finish in the top four. We here at Soccersouls provide our readers three reasons why United might just clinch a Champions League berth.
1. All that Matas
If Juan Mata’s performance last night was to give any indication, then Manchester United would feel they have signed a player who would invigorate claims for a top four finish after a stuttering start to the 2013-14 campaign. The 25 year old gave a glimpse of what is in store for the Old Trafford faithful as he was at the centre of every United attack against former United’s fan favourite, Ole Gunnar Soljasker’s men. The diminutive Spaniard played in his favourite number ten role, behind the lone striker, Robin Van Persie in David Moyes’ 4-4-1-1 setup. Mata created three chances against the Welsh side and with more game time, he is sure to lay more balls for the front two up front when Wayne Rooney returns to link up with Van Persie to lead United’s strike force. Going by stats, Mata had 86% passing accuracy and provided an assist too. Mata also dropped deep into midfield and drifted out wide too on occasions, to receive the ball and lay it inside and making more forward runs into the penalty box. Creativity is something United have lacked this campaign, but with Mata now in the starting eleven, David Moyes can finally straighten the frowns on his forehead.
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