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The world of football has been in full swing lately, and the biggest eye-catcher is undoubtedly Manchester United, especially the discussion around the controversial topic of frequent illnesses of their players. The issue has been particularly evident this season, with the back-to-back absences of Anthony Martial and Christian Eriksen intensifying the debate. Manchester United won 2-0 against Wigan Athletic in the third round of the FA Cup, but their fitness and absence were the focus of the debate. Fans are asking: Why do Manchester United's players get sick so easily?
[Sickness: A test of a player's health]
When it comes to Manchester United's player health issues, this is no small feat. Anthony Martial, for example, missed four weeks due to illness and Christian Eriksen was also unavailable. This season, many of Manchester United's players have been absent due to illness, which has had a big impact on their tactical set-up and squad selection. The health of a team is directly related to their performance on the field and the execution of their overall tactics. This has also attracted a lot of attention from fans and the media, and at the same time, it has also made the management need to pay more attention to the health management of players.
[Team configuration: all main players play]
In the face of Wigan Athletic, Manchester United did not reserve and played with all the main forces. Coach Erik ten Hag fielded his strongest squad and showed the importance he takes for the FA Cup. Despite this, the team remains vulnerable in some ways. Although the strategy of playing with the main force has been effective offensively, it has also exposed the team's shortcomings in defense and other aspects.
[Technique and tactics: Manchester United's offensive and defensive performances]
When it comes to the game, Manchester United's attacking style is truly impressive. They relied on a strong attack down the left, with Fernandes and Meno operating inside, and Marcus Rashford and Diogo Dalot working on the flanks. This set-up allowed United to penetrate the opposition's rib defence during the game. However, despite creating 33 shots on goal, the goal efficiency was not ideal, with just two goals in the net. This statistic reflects the team's lack of taking advantage of opportunities.
[Defensively Dilemma]
Defensively, United are a bit vulnerable. Meno moved forward as a midfielder, causing gaps in the backfield defence. Wigan Athletic may have limited strength, but they have created a lot of threats in their quick counter-attacks. United's backline was frequently met with quick counter-attacks after misplaced passes.
【Facing the challenge of a lower-division team】
In the FA Cup, Manchester United should have won comfortably against Wigan Athletic, 18th in League One, a team on the verge of relegation due to points deductions. From a technical point of view, Manchester United have a clear advantage. However, it was not all smooth sailing, with United facing challenges at both ends of the pitch.
[Player Performance: Shooting & Goals]
In terms of shots, the United players were lively. Marcus Rashford had eight shots on goal alone, but only four on target. Garnacho and Fernandes also had a number of shots on goal. However, despite having eight shots on goal in the starting line-up, the team scored just two. This reflects the team's goalscoring efficiency up front.
【Impact of Health Problems】
Players' health issues have a major impact on Manchester United. Jadon Sancho missed a number of times last season due to illness, and the likes of Anthony Martial and Christian Eriksen have also been sidelined this season. This frequent illness has affected the team's overall competitive form and tactical arrangement. The attention of fans and the media has also prompted the management to pay more attention to the health of the players.
[Emptiness in the backcourt: defensive hazards]
United's defensive problems are equally clear. With Maynor's position moving forward, United's backfield looked empty, leaving the opposition with a chance to counter-attack. In the second half, in particular, United pressed further in order to intensify their attack, which gave Wigan Athletic room to threaten with quick counter-attacks.
【Only Trophy Chance】
The FA Cup is Manchester United's only trophy chance this season. They reached the final of the FA Cup last year and will want to go even further this year. Despite their luck in the draw, the team's overall performance and player health issues still need attention.
I would like to ask you what you think of Manchester United's performance this season, the health of the players and the tactical layout of the team, what do you think can be improved?