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27-year-old shows he can solve Manchester United’s biggest problem with display v Palace

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Sofyan Amrabat made his full debut for Manchester United last night against Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup, and he has impressed.

Filling in at left-back in the first-half Sofyan Amrabat was brilliant and consistently inverted to sit in midfield.

With his left-back duties though he was also immaculate, as he completely shut down Jesurun Ran-Sakyi who had a torrid time.

In the second half, with Mason Mount‘s withdrawal, Amrabat was moved into midfield next to Casemiro where he was brilliant again.

His display has many raving and excited to see him in midfield from the start very soon.

Here is why he has solved Erik ten Hag’s biggest issue.

Manchester United v Crystal Palace - Carabao Cup Third Round
Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images

Amrabat impressive for United

Amrabat was top class for United and it’s no surprise that this game is the best the team have looked all season.

According to SofaScore he won five duels and two tackles as he swept up danger across the defensive and midfield line.

He had 92 touches and completed 78 of his 81 passes which is a staggering 96%.

His long ball accuracy was also incredible with five of six attempted reaching their intended destination.

His display while not one which will win him individual awards, is exactly what Manchester United have been crying out for.

Why he solves United’s biggest problem

Manchester United have struggled in retaining possession for a while, but more notably this season.

But with the presence of Amrabat in midfield, where he inverted to from left-back United were so secure in possession.

Amrabat was so involved in play and reliable with the ball that it allowed the other players to push forward and a higher line to be played as there was little concern he would lose the ball.

This meant United had Palace pinned in their own half for large periods of the game with no route out which allowed United a truly dominant victory.

Amrabat’s qualities also allowed Casemiro to be at his best with a goal and an assist along with 122 touches with 100 passes completed.

Amrabat could have just established himself as the most important player United signed in the summer.