Abhranil Roy
A lot is expected out of Manchester United next season now that Jose Mourinho is in charge and given the fact that we have bought in a few big name players. There is this increasing sense that finally, the club can get back to the top after 3 seasons of utter mediocrity, but for that to happen, both the manager and the players need to get their act sorted. In this article, we will list 3 footballers who need to pull their socks up, if they want to stay at the club and carry on its legacy:
1. Memphis Depay-
The Dutch winger came to the club with a lot of reputation, but has failed to deliver it totally. Except a few good performances here and then, the former PSV Eindhoven forward was largely off colour last season, and was criticised by a lot of people, including the legendary Ruud Gullit for focusing more on off field antics rather than focusing on the field. At 22 years of age, he still has time on his hands, but many people are certain that this will be his make or break season at Old Trafford. He has flattered to deceive in the pre-season so far, and will have to scale up his performances several times if he wants to stay.
2. Phil Jones-
Jose Mourinho surprised many when he publicly stated that he sees Chris Smalling and Phil Jones as his first choice centre back pairing. The Englishman, who showed a great promise as a teenager and was bought by Sir Alex Ferguson from Blackburn Rovers in 2011, has failed to display the consistency required at the highest level. Injuries have plagued his career so far, and despite showing flickers of hope, he is yet to burn to the fullest. However, the Portugese has vested his confidence in him, so it is upto the defender now to finally deliver upon the hype he generated a couple of years back.
3. Juan Mata-
There has been a lot of discussion regarding Mourinho and Mata’s relationship ever since the former was appointed as the manager of the Red Devils. The rumour reached its peak and the former Inter gaffer had to come out and clarify the press that it was the Spaniard who wanted out during their time together at Chelsea. Whatever may the true story be, it is obvious that the former Valencia midfielder has his work cut out for him, especially now that Heinrikh Mkhitaryan has been bought as an alternative number 10 or a wide man. Juan will have to perform exceptionally well if he has to stay, and if pre-season is anything to go by, it doesn’t look very good for the one who was once United’s record purchase.
