Thread by @ThreadmanChaza

LISANDRO MARTINEZ the Progressor~ A Thread 🧵

In this thread, I will highlight some clips from the 2-0 win against the Moldovan side Sheriff Tiraspol in the Europa League, focusing on Martinez and why he is so important as a progressive outlet in this Manchester United side. Let’s go ⬇️

One of Lisandro’s biggest strengths is the frequency and range of his progressive passes.

Here, Martinez looks for two United runners in the right channel, the pass does not reach them but the intention is there (2nd minute).

Timing of passes

This is a very minor, but important facet of his game. He often takes a few touches on the ball, delays his pass, draws the opponent to him and then releases the ball- thus often giving the receiver more time + space.

This obviously depends on how many opp. players are part of the front line of the press - in this particular scenario it was just the one Sheriff presser, meaning this technique was useful. If Varane was being pressed by another player- not as effective.

The patience that Martinez shows also allows him to carry the ball forwards a few yards, pushing the Sheriff lines back- he can assess his options and find good passes into the midfield players, like Mctominay here.

If you rewatch the last clip- notice the movement from Mctominay- he changes his positioning really well here to create a passing opportunity for Martinez. You can’t use Lisandro’s strengths without the options ahead of him- pleased to see Scott make improvements in this regard.

This is my favourite pass of the game, Sancho strays just offside. Not signing Frenkie de Jong certainly has affected our build-up. The transition from the 1st to 2nd phase had previously been tough with the midfield players and GK we have.

However, we saw Erik ten Hag give David de Gea a clear instruction after the Brighton and Brentford games- play longer passes and avoid playing through the phases- aim to go straight into the 3rd phase, try to win the 1st, 2nd, 3rd balls and sustain pressure.

Is this really what Ten Hag wants to do in the long-run? No, but Erik has used Christian Eriksen in the deeper stages of build-up, something he’s done decently well for a player who works best between the mid-attacking third of the pitch.

However, having a CB with the progressive mind of Lisandro Martinez means that United can “make up for” some of the strengths that are absent due to no Frenkie, who’s incredibly comfortable between the 1st and 2nd phase. Lisandro is KEY for United’s progression.

Thank you for reading this thread, I hope you enjoyed it. Please LIKE, RETWEET AND FOLLOW @ThreadmanChaza for more analysis like this!