Manchester United are now only 13 days away from their first leg match of the UEFA Champions League first knockout round. The match against Sevilla is scheduled for 21 February in Spain and United have to prepare for their most important match of this month.
Prior to the clash against Sevilla, Manchester United will face Newcastle United this Sunday in Premier League, before going to Huddersfield the following Saturday in FA Cup’s fifth round. Here are the five things United should look to do in the next two weeks.
Make Sanchez feel fully comfortable
Alexis Sanchez had some good performances since arriving from Arsenal, yet it still does not look like the connection between him and the rest of the side fully clicked. There is nothing to worry about, as Sanchez signed for United less than a month ago. These things are normal and take time. However, United should try and accommodate him as much as possible. Alexis would be doing the best if he plays on the left, but the more important thing will be understanding with his team-mates. Once it clicks, Sanchez will be on fire.
Prepare A 4-3-3 Formation
Manchester United most probably will not play in a 4-3-3 formation in Seville, but this formation should be prepared for the return leg. It is a formation that will get the best out of a free-flowing Pogba, while allowing Alexis to do his thing on the left. As Pogba already created 10 goals in all competitions, United should their utmost to get the most out of his talent.
Create More Chances For Lukaku
This is something that has been obvious this season. Lukaku had a lot of chances coming his way early into the season, but have dried up ever since. He has not scored in six matches against fellot Big 6 sides. He maybe scored 19 goals in all competitions this term, but not many of them have been crucial. With 2.9 shots per 90 minutes in Premier League, he is behind the likes of Sam Vokes, Andy Carroll and Pedro. Players around him need to help him out, as United are only sixth in number created chances this season. Their 10.3 key passes per match are far from top three teams in this category, as Man City, Tottenham and Liverpool have all created over 13 chances per match.
Rest Some Players Against Huddersfield
The match against the Terriers will be their third matchup this season and United showed they worked out how to play against them in the reverse league match. Even though United lost last time they visited Huddersfield, they should be able to rest a some important players for the match against Sevilla. Winning in Huddersfield would be a must even with the likes of Scott McTominay in the starting lineup.
Win Both Matches
This sounds too simplistic, but is highly important. Manchester United cannot allow themselves any doubts before the match against Sevilla. Losing points to Newcastle or going to a replay against Huddersfield would only make the atmosphere much worse. Sevilla are a good team and United must be in their best frame of mind. The loss against Tottenham was not so long ago and Manchester United cannot allow themselves any mistakes.
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