Weaknesses
Defense
As it stands currently, United have Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, and Johnny Evans playing the back three in the 3-5-2 system. Luke Shaw and Antonio Valencia seem to be the front runners for the wingbacks on the outside. David De Gea will remain the number one GK as he is one of the best in the league.
The question that Van Gaal must solve is whether or not Jones, Smalling, and Evans are good enough. Realistically, I do not think those back three are good enough for United. Jones, 22, is good enough and should be given a chance to solidify his position as the right centerback. I think Evans is a solid player, but I do not think a defense can be built around him. Chris Smalling is the one who falls short for me. For such a big lad, he plays like he is scared and he seems to always be a half step behind the play. Maybe Van Gaal can whip him into shape, but I think the better option is to bring in a player like Mats Hummels that United can form a defense around.
Center Mid
United have already brought in Ander Herrera, who is simply a fantastic signing. He has been quite impressive through the preseason games and seems to be linking up with the attacking players really well. He needs a partner though. Michael Carrick will not be back from injury for some time and United desperately need a holding center midfielder. The Arturo Vidal saga seems to be never ending, so it is a toss up of whether or not United can land him. Obviously, he would be a very good addition, but if United cannot bring in Vidal, Van Gaal and Woodward need to sort out a replacement. I just cannot see Cleverley or Fletcher being good enough to hold the entire midfield together.
How does United match up?
Last year’s title race was extremely close. This year it will be even closer. Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, Everton, and United could all be potential challengers for the title this year. While United have made some splashes in the Transfer Market, so has everyone else.
- Arsenal: Arsene Wenger has been able to add Alexis Sanchez, Calum Chambers, Mathieu Debuchy, and David Ospina to his ranks. Sanchez, Wilshere, Ozil, and Ramsey could be very dangerous in the middle of the park. They still need a 20+ goal scoring striker to become a title contender.
- Chelsea: Chelsea have added two big names to their squad over the summer. Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas join the likes of Hazard, Matic, Oscar, and now Drogba on the first team. With Thibaut Courtois likely to become the new number one in net, Chelsea seem to be the team to beat for the title.
- Everton: Roberto Martinez seems to have the scary ability to get the absolute most out of his teams. Everton does not have the star power that the other top teams do, but they are certainly not to be forgotten about. Martinez has added Gareth Barry and Romelu Lukaku to the side permanently. Tim Howard will also be a key figure this season, as Everton look to challenge for a top four spot.
- Liverpool: Brendan Rogers seems to have reinvigorated Liverpool and they nearly lifted the title last season. Liverpool must now cope with losing Luis Suarez and his attacking potential. Rodgers has brought in eight signings to reinforce his squad for Champions League football. Three of those signings, Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert, and Dejan Lovren, were all standout players last year for Southampton.
- Manchester City: City have added three signings so far in hopes that they can defend thier title. Bacary Sagna, Fernando, and Willy Caballero will add their skills to an already deadly attacking force. If City can replicate their scoring record of last year then they may be able to snatch another title.
- Manchester United: Louis Van Gaal is already a great addition to United and he seems to be repairing the club. Shaw and Herrera will be standout players for Van Gaal but he still needs to bring in a centerback and holding center midfielder. If he can do that, then United are looking at a top four finish. If not, I have a hard time seeing United crack the top four.
Predicted Finishes :
- Chelsea
- Manchester City
- Liverpool
- Manchester United (Only if Van Gaal brings in a CB and CDM)
- Arsenal
- Everton
