THREAD: Analyzing how de Gea creates problems for Manchester United . #ManchesterUnited
With the topic of de Gea becoming a cause of constant division among the ManU fanbase, I decided to add my views on the subject, hopefully changing some people's views on the same.
As you can see in the illustration below, de Gea staying back at his line means there is one less man for ManU to build-up from the back, much to the contrast of other modern teams like Barcelona, Arsenal and their Manchester counterparts, Manchester City.
de Gea staying back at his spot when balls are played over/approaching him means the defenders have to lower the defensive line and thus lowering the entire team. It also means they lack a safe passing option under pressure from opponent strikers.
Manchester United rank the lowest in terms of crosses stopped this season. While de Gea may be saving himself through moments of magic until now, this is clearly unsustainable. Also, his saves could also rebound into dangerous areas for the opposition players.
Having the least number of sweeping actions in the league, de Gea largely prevents Manchester United from playing a high pressing style of football, which requires active contributions of the goalkeeper by coming out and winning the ball.
All this being said, it is certain de Gea isn't the way forward for Manchester United, at least not if they want to be a modern team. The answers of United's goalkeeping problems actually lie in the backup keeper of the team, Dean Henderson.
Looking at Henderson's percentile ranks from fbref.com, it is certain that he is quite well-rounded in all aspects of goalkeeping, including saving shots as well. His high sweeping actions would certainly allow ManU to play a high pressing style of play.
Ultimately, it all depends on the type of football Manchester United want to play. If they want to play counter-attacking, defensive style of football mostly confined to securing leads, de Gea is optimal. But, if they want to play football the modern way, by pressing high...
by pressing high, maintaining a high line and playing progressive, de Gea isn't the way forward, on the contrary it is Dean Henderson, at least for now. de Gea's poor pass distribution has seen United lose the ball in dangerous positions many a times this season now, Henderson
Henderson would be much, much safer in that aspect. By playing de Gea, ManU are not only harming the team but also the growth of a potentially great keeper in Dean Henderson.
END OF THREAD.
Hope I've been able to clearly state my views on the subject. Feel free to tag any accounts who'd be interested in this. Likes and RT's appreciated!!
Also, don't be toxic. State your opinion in a civilized way if you feel the need to, I won't hesitate to block.
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