Despite slow starts to the season, the experience of Juan Mata and Nemanja Matic will prove valuable as the season progresses.
Matic has been an unused substitute for United’s opening three Premier League games, whilst Mata hasn’t fared much better, playing just 18 minutes off the bench in the fixtures.
However, the former Chelsea pair will play their part for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s team this season.
Although now 31, Mata still possesses a better skill set than many other players. The Spanish midfield creator is capable of magical moment and is also potent from set pieces, building a reputation as a tremendous free-kick taker.
While the new United will look to use the speed of their attackers in games this season, Mata is a player who has never been blessed with blistering pace and, given his advancing years, won’t be getting any quicker.
Instead, the former Valencia man’s abilities are based on the technical side of the game. A clever footballer with terrific vision and passing ability, his attributes will come into play when teams look to defend in numbers against United.
Of United’s current midfielders, Mata is the best placed to be able to unlock a defence. Whilst Angel Gomes is a player who fans demand to see more of, the youngster is still learning and improving his game. Mata, however, has the big game experience to handle different situations.
Mata can also guide young Gomes as he looks to stamp his mark on the first team this season.
While Mata is a threat offensively, Matic is very much a defensive player.
It is doubtful that United fans will see the Matic that was so excellent for Chelsea as he screened the Blues’ defence. Tactically aware, Matic was able to play in front of three centre backs and a more traditional back four during his time at Stamford Bridge.
His tackling and breaking up of play in the middle of the park enabled the likes of Eden Hazard, Willian and Pedro to cause damage further forward.
While Scott McTominay currently occupies the role of United’s most defensive midfielder, Matic’s ability will inevitably come into play when United look to see out a game or nullify the threat of another team, with the Serbian known for his man-marking ability.
Injuries will most probably provide Matic with his opportunity, although it cannot be ruled out that a dip in form will also allow him to get back into the team. This may certainly be the case with McTominay as, like most young players, there will be wobbles in form as he continues his development.
Having not won a trophy with United, the former Benfica man will be hungry to achieve success and bring silverware to Old Trafford this season.
The midfield duo offer qualities at opposite ends of the pitch but their experience and capabilities will almost certainly come into use at various stages throughout United’s season.
