By Axel Reyes
Manchester United's defensive frailties have been laid bare once again, with Opta revealing a shocking statistic: the Red Devils have conceded a staggering 17 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League in 2024, excluding penalties. This alarming figure surpasses any other Premier League side in a single calendar year, highlighting a significant weakness within the team.
The latest example of this concerning trend came against Bournemouth, where Huijsen opened the scoring for the visitors with a well-struck free-kick. This goal served as a stark reminder of United's vulnerability from dead-ball situations, a recurring theme throughout the season.
Set-piece defending has been a persistent Achilles' heel for United in recent seasons. Despite possessing talented players and a world-class manager, the team has consistently struggled to cope with opposition deliveries from corners, free-kicks, and throw-ins.
A number of factors have contributed to this alarming statistic. Poor marking, a lack of aerial dominance, and questionable tactical decisions have all played a role. The team's defensive organization often appears disjointed, with players failing to carry out their defensive duties effectively.
The consequences of this set-piece vulnerability have been severe. Not only have these conceded goals cost United valuable points in the Premier League, but they have also significantly impacted the team's confidence. The constant threat of conceding from a set-piece has undoubtedly affected the players' mentality and contributed to a sense of unease within the squad.
To address this critical issue, the club must take immediate action. The coaching staff needs to dedicate significant time and resources to improving set-piece defending in training. This could involve implementing new drills, analyzing opponent tendencies, and focusing on individual player development in aerial duels and defensive positioning.
Furthermore, the club may need to consider strengthening their squad in areas where they are particularly vulnerable from set-pieces. Bringing in experienced defenders with strong aerial ability could provide a much-needed boost to the team's defensive resilience.
Failing to address this issue could have serious consequences for United's ambitions. The Premier League is a highly competitive league, and teams that cannot defend set-pieces effectively will struggle to compete at the highest level. By acknowledging the problem and taking decisive action, United can hope to overcome this weakness and return to the top of the table.
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