Manchester United shifted formation to a four-man midfield against RB Leipzig and Paul Pogba was the big winner.
Pogba lined up on the left of a diamond and he was able to push forward and get involved in the attacking play, with both Nemanja Matic and Fred helping with the bulk of the defensive work.
This allowed Pogba more freedom to impact the game and it was his incisive pass which put Mason Greenwood through on goal to score the game’s opener.
It made such a difference seeing Pogba receiving the ball from midfielders behind him, rather than being the one distributing it.
Pogba mucked in defensively too, winning a team high six fouls as he fought to give United an edge.
He also won one tackle, made three interceptions and made two clearances.
Big improvement
Pogba did not start the season well, and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already admitted he probably got it wrong starting him in all three league matches.
He did not look fully fit in those early matches, but the problem was also a tactical one. Pogba was playing too deep, often even further back than Matic.
United appear to have found a system which complements both Pogba’s strengths, and the players around him.
He was strong in possession against a pressing Leipzig side too, completing 86 per cent of his passes.
It was almost a shame he was taken off in the 80th minute as United ran riot. He would have had some real fun as the game came to a close and United scored at the drop of a hat.
Reaction
United fans were impressed with Pogba’s display in this role. Here is a look at the reaction…
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