Brutal work, we break down Dalot's tremendous work with United

"When you face City, they will go up to press and then to play with Rapha and Maguire over the left, that can give problems and then you end up only kicking long balls," said United boss Erik ten Hag, outlining the tactical reasons for that decision. It isn't just down to Varane, however. United have had issues in build-up due to various factors but, in Diogo Dalot, they have someone who has eased their problems in this regard. So how has he done it?

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Dalot's role at Manchester United has varied over the years since initially joining back in the 2018-19 season under Jose Mourinho. Now under Ten Hag, he has assumed more responsibility across various phases, especially at the back, where his strengths have been useful. Though he has shown promise in his movement in forward areas, that promise has never translated into creating high-quality chances consistently. Therefore, Ten Hag has been able to use his strengths deeper on the pitch, instructing him to invert when the Red Devils are in possession.

Dalot is seeing a lot more of the ball, making himself available to receive from goalkeeper Andre Onana as well as the centre-backs. United don't have a lot of personnel who are able to receive in deeper areas confidently and carry up the pitch - and of those players who can, availability has been an issue. In games where United have bossed possession, Dalot has seen a lot of the ball, putting up 40+ touches across each of the games against Crystal Palace, Brentford, Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United and Luton. It is no surprise; the Portuguese has the ability to progress the ball, and he has been one of United’s chief progressors this season.

In the 3-2 comeback victory against Aston Villa on Boxing Day, Dalot spent a lot of time in midfield alongside Kobbie Mainoo, allowing United’s counter-press to work better. Whenever needed though, Dalot would drop deeper, almost playing as an auxiliary left-sided centre-back with Jonny Evans.

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Proof is in the numbers

Of all Manchester United's outfield players this season, only Bruno Fernandes has played more minutes than Dalot and only Fernandes has completed more full matches than Dalot. He is simply essential. As such, he has racked up some hugely impressive figures so far this season. Dalot's mettle in one-on-one situations has been tested in the past and, where he once showed weakness, he has shown now he can be just as reliable as his competition in the squad, Aaron Wan-Bissaka.