It goes to prove the levels of expectation at Manchester United, after 20 years of glory, that some fans were disappointed at only getting Juan Mata in the winter window.
Few could argue that the £37m outlay was money well spent – Manchester United have, improbably, added another world class talent to their squad in a notoriously tricky window.
But there was still some disappointment that Manchester United didn’t appear to address their biggest problem – namely the centre of midfield. We actually think that Juan Mata could easily be employed as a creative midfielder in a deeper position than he is accustomed to. But David Moyes appears to want to play him in a more conventional attacking role.
And the fact remains that Manchester United don’t have a really dominant midfielder – someone in the Matic/Toure mould to boss matches. Carrick has been an excellent servant to the club but his skill is more subtle. His personality more understated.
Fellaini was supposed to be that man but he doesn’t seem to have the skill to go with the size.
Positive news on that front today then, regarding Toni Kroos. He has admitted, on Facebook, that he hasn’t been able to agree a contract extension with Bayern Munich. The Metro reports:
‘I love Bayern and I don’t mind that I am a squad player at the moment. However, me and the club have not been able to agree a contract renewal – and we’ll now see what the future brings.’
Only a team with Bayern Munich’s embarrassment of midfield riches – Goetze, Alcantara, Schweinsteiger et al – could leave a regular in the German national side out of their team.
But this guy is exactly the sort of character that Manchester United need in the middle. He’s got the skill to open up a defence or score a belter. But he’s also got the presence, awareness and determination to give Manchester United’s midfield a personality once more.
At 24 this guy has his best years ahead of him. Many fans will hope that his future lies at Manchester United.
Manchester United fans – is this guy the midfield answer? CLICK FOR KROOS
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