It is reasonable to say that Manchester United have been underwhelming this season, with their sixth-place position in the Premier League certainly backing up that statement.
The 3-1 defeat to Manchester City was the latest indication that Erik ten Hag’s team is far from where they need to be, challenging for the title.
Even though United took the lead early on, it was a complete mismatch from the first whistle to the last, with City having 3.08 xG more than the Reds.
Many of the United faithful believe that Alejandro Garnacho has been their most important player this season, but as was evident at the weekend, there’s one player who continues to impress.
Alejandro Garnacho’s stats this season
After making his Premier League debut last season, Garnacho has quickly become one of the most promising talents in Europe.
Under Ten Hag’s guidance and confidence, the Argentine has reached a new level this season, featuring in 19 Premier League games and playing in all of United’s last 24 matches in all competitions.
The 19-year-old has scored five goals and assisted three more in the league, which puts him among the top three goal contributors in the United squad.
For someone so young, he is not only producing results, but also taking on a lot of responsibility in the attack, and he is forming a formidable partnership with Rasmus Hojlund.
Despite Garnacho’s popularity among the fans, there is another United star who has been consistent throughout this season.
Diogo Dalot’s 23/24 performances
Since Antonio Valencia left Man United, the right-back position has lacked a consistent player. However, this season, Diogo Dalot has emerged as a brilliant full-back.
The Portuguese star has been a regular starter, delivering high-quality performances on both the right and left flanks.
Even Ten Hag has been full of praise for the former Porto man, stating: “Everyone gets criticism but he is a fantastic player who is developing very well”.
With 24 starts in the Premier League this season, Dalot has been a regular fixture in the United lineup. He only missed the first game against Wolves and another one because of a suspension. His display against Man City confirmed that he has been United’s “best player” this season, according to StatmanDave.
| Dalot vs Man City | |
|---|---|
| Stats | Dalot |
| Tackles | 3 |
| Blocked shots | 2 |
| Clearances | 3 |
| Dribbled past | 0 |
| Duels won | 9 |
| Pass accuracy | 80% |
| Successful dribbles | 3/3 |
Dalot’s defensive performance against the formidable Jeremy Doku was outstanding. He did not let Doku get past him at all, and Doku was the first player to be substituted. Dalot also displayed great calmness and skill on the ball, either by making simple passes or by advancing with his dribbling ability. His three successful tackles demonstrate this.