The slide began with a 1-2 derby defeat against cross-town rivals Manchester City, which was followed by a 0-1 loss against Dutch side Feyenoord in the Europa League. From Paul Pogba having changed more haircuts than goals or assists to a quote made by Jose Mourinho about Walter Mazarri about half a decade ago – jokes were made about every little thing.
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United really needed their wide-men to stay high and wide because by cutting in so early they were no help to their full-backs, or anyone else.
“Where do you want Wayne Rooney to play?”.
“Slow of thought and legs, United are a side now functioning as if running through custard and much of the blame lies with the continued selection, in the most critical position in the team, of a man who is playing on his reputation”. By half-time Mkhitaryan and Lingard had been dire and were hooked – Rashford and Ander Herrera went on. His partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo was wonderful to watch as Manchester United became an all-conquering force, not just in England, but Europe, reaching back to back Champions League finals in ’08 and ’09.
There have been flashes of his brilliance, a superb 25-yard effort that cannoned off the Watford crossbar a fine example, but for a player who cost more than Cristiano Ronaldo or Gareth Bale, Mourinho needs him to come good.
A tricky test against the title-holders will be a hard test for a team low on morale and Fellaini admits the team must fight together to alter the atmosphere around the club.
A United fan compiled a package of Rooney’s lowlights against Watford, which ended with the message: ‘Take your weave and leave. He’s not effective in attack or midfield and slows the play down constantly when on the ball. What do you think Jose Murinho should do to improve the team in these dire times? After the defeat at Watford, Mourinho said: “Some individuals probably feel the pressure and responsibility too much”. But it’s knowing when to do it, and how to get the best reaction out of them. Another cause for worry has now emerged, as manager Jose Mourinho has reportedly alienated one of his star players.
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At the moment José Mourinho is a manager confused regarding his best XI or Manchester United would not have lost three consecutive games and the Portuguese suffer the run for a first time since his Porto days.
