Manchester United had its moments in 2021, but it wasn’t a particularly memorable year in the club’s history.
Here are some ideas about how they can improve things in 2022.
1. They need to do more of one item in particular:
Sacked Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the correct thing to do in 2021, no matter how difficult it was.
Ralf Rangnick’s appointment till the end of the season was a step in the right direction, even if the jury is still out on him.
Rangnick’s insight must now be used to alter United’s infrastructure, with the German serving as a guide.
If the team’s results and performances do not improve by the end of the season, they should make the long-awaited hire of a top-tier coach (such as Mauricio Pochettino) their main priority in 2022.
2. They should do less of the following:
United supporters will do anything for a quick return to their glory years under Sir Alex Ferguson.
Obsessing over the past, on the other hand, will not bring the good times back to Old Trafford any time soon.
Style has evolved tremendously in recent years, and in the era of coaches like Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp, counter-attacking football and late winning goals are unlikely to lead to long-term success.
Ferguson’s greatness stemmed from his ability to adapt, and United must convert to a possession-based style of play and add players who will fit that system rather than individuals who are only there to sell shirts.
3. One area where they need to improve is:
Rangnick will undoubtedly be as aware as anybody that the current United team is in desperate need of a dominant holding midfielder.
If they are unable to sign a world-class midfielder who matches that criteria in January, the summer should be their first priority.
Aside from that, there aren’t many other obvious flaws in this group.
4. They need to get rid of one player in particular:
There are a few players whose contracts at Old Trafford are coming to an end soon, but it appears that moving on without Paul Pogba in 2022 is the best option for both parties.
On his day, the Frenchman is a good player, but his greatness has been far too brief throughout his time at United, and consistent rumors about his future are unhealthy.
He will be a free agent in the summer of 2022 if he does not sign a new deal, and it is time to start preparing for a future without him.
5. Their 2022 goal(s) should be…
United’s chances of finishing in the Premier League’s top four are slim, but a successful second half of the 2021-22 season will give them a fighting chance.
Winning the Champions League may appear to be an improbable feat, but stranger things have happened.
Winning the FA Cup, on the other hand, is more likely, and winning that trophy may propel them to greater heights in the future.
