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Premier League Mid-Season Report – Manchester United: Rangnick’s Recovering Red Devils

With a raft of new signings, including a famous return for a favourite son, Manchester United were expected to kick on and build on an impressive campaign last season. However, the Red Devils have been left behind, nineteen points from the top already.

Season so far

It has been a season of recovery for Manchester United, after such a strong start, the Red Devils form has been a mixed bag. Humiliating defeats to Liverpool, Watford and Manchester City derailed United’s season before it really got going.

Things have began to pick up again, with a return to the top four positions at the mid-point of the season. Under a new coach, the form has improved, and there is renewed optimism compared to a couple of months ago.

The Managers

After finishing as runners-up in both the Premier League and Europa League last season, this campaign appeared to be a do-or-die situation for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Sadly for the Norweigan, his time as Manchester United manager came to a sombre end after being demolished by struggling Watford.

Ralf Rangnick has come in and stabled the ship, grinding out results despite below-par performances. A return to the top-four positions has been welcomed by the fans, and if the team can buy into the German’s philosophy, then there is still plenty up for grabs this season.

Signing of the Season so far

Form is temporary, class is permanent, that is Cristiano Ronaldo summed up to a tee. The Portuguese superstar returned to Old Trafford after thirteen years away in the summer. Ronaldo is United’s top goalscorer with eight strikes in the league, along with three assists as well. Becoming the main vocal point in the team once again, Ronaldo has had to dig United out of many stick situations, especially in Europe.

Player of the Season

If it was not for David De Gea, Manchester United would be in a much more worrying position. The Spaniard has rolled back the years this season with some stunning saves, especially against Norwich and Newcastle. United have conceded 30 goals in the league this season, and De Gea only has five clean sheets, but with how the Reds have defended this season, they can count themselves lucky that the Spaniard is in top form.

Most Disappointing Player

Signed for £72 million in the summer, it was hoped that Jadon Sancho could transfer his electrifying form from Borussia Dortmund into the Premier League. Sadly for the Englishman, it has not worked out so far for him, struggling for form and confidence in key attacking positions.

He has scored one goal in the league and starting less than half of United’s Premier League games so far. Sancho will need to dramatically improve if the ‘flop’ status is not going to be thrown about.

Grade so far: C-
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