About this Video

• Video Title: How can United solve their midfield conundrum?
• Channel: Talk Of The Devils
• Speakers: Andy, KL, Carl, Lori
• Duration: 00:54:14

Introduction

This Talk of the Devils podcast discusses Manchester United's performance in their draw against Fulham, analyzes their midfield issues, and previews their upcoming League Cup tie against Grimsby Town. The episode also touches upon the transfer window and potential incomings and outgoings for the club.

Key Takeaways

• Manchester United's draw against Fulham highlighted persistent issues: The team's performance echoed aspects of last season, including missed chances and a lack of creativity, particularly in midfield. Bruno Fernandes' missed penalty was also a key talking point.
• Midfield is a major concern: The podcast extensively analyzes Manchester United's midfield problems, questioning Bruno Fernandes' suitability in a deeper role and the overall balance of the midfield. The lack of service to Benjamin Sesko is also noted.
• Goalkeeping remains a question mark: David de Gea's performance, particularly concerning set pieces, is discussed, with the possibility of new signings to address this issue. Lori provides an update about potential goalkeeper signings.
• The transfer window activity is expected to be busy: The podcast discusses the potential outgoings and incomings of several players in the final week of the transfer window, highlighting the complexity of the situation and the need for player sales.
• Positive aspects noted: Despite the overall negative tone, the podcast highlights positive performances from players like Leny Yoro, who is praised for his defensive contributions and potential.

Based solely on the provided transcript, here's a summary of Carl Anka's main points, noting that distinguishing every single individual point from his conversational contributions is difficult due to the nature of the dialogue:

• Fulham Match Analysis: Carl initially expresses disappointment at the draw against Fulham, noting similarities to last season's performance, including missed chances and a lack of overall creation, especially after a promising start. He emphasizes the need for wins to change the team's mood and validate the changes implemented.

• Midfield Concerns: Carl highlights the significant midfield issues, pointing out the lack of clear-cut chances created and the limited impact of the front line in the second half. He notes that Sesko isn't getting enough service, and expresses concerns about the midfield's ability to compete effectively against stronger opponents who can exploit the space behind the central midfielders.

• Bruno Fernandes' Role: He questions whether Bruno Fernandes fits into the team's tactical system, especially when playing deeper. He emphasizes that a proper partner for Fernandes is needed in midfield to compensate for his inclination to move forward. He suggests the age of current midfield partners as a limiting factor.

• Goalkeeping: Carl expresses concern over David de Gea's performance in dealing with set pieces, highlighting it as a significant problem that needs resolving.

• Transfer Window: Carl emphasizes that the club needs to sell players and that the process is more complicated than what is being reported. He offers insights into the transfer situations of several players, indicating that deals are not as advanced as suggested in the media. He stresses that the club cannot afford to not sign a new midfielder.

• League Cup Preview (Grimsby): Carl points out that Manchester United needs to win convincingly against Grimsby and avoid a repeat of past cup upsets to regain momentum. He notes the historical context of the game and compares the situation to past issues.

• Overall Assessment: He maintains that while it's early in the season, United needs wins urgently and to address its midfield and goalkeeping issues to improve its chances in the Premier League. He also expresses concern about the team's performance against more formidable opponents if they continue to have similar midfield issues.