TalkSPORT‘s Mark Goldbridge has lambasted Fred’s performance in Manchester United‘s disappointing 1-0 defeat at home to Real Sociedad on Thursday evening.
The Lowdown: United beaten in Europe
Erik ten Hag’s side hosted the La Liga outfit in the Europa League as they got their European campaign underway for another season.
Unfortunately, it proved to be a below-par night for United at Old Trafford, with a controversial Brais Mendez penalty proving to be the difference between the two sides.
Fred started the game in a more attack-minded role, with Ten Hag allowing him more freedom, but it ultimately backfired.
The Latest: Goldbridge slam Fred’s performance
Taking to Twitter, Goldbridge slammed Fred’s display, admitting he produced a dreadful first-half performance:
“Has Fred ever had a worse 45 minutes? Just doesn’t suit that role at all.”
The Verdict: New role didn’t work
There are few doubts that deploying Fred in a No.10 role didn’t work on the night, with the Brazilian more accustomed to a more disciplined job in the team.
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According to Sofascore, the 29-year-old had a 78% pass completion rate – it’s 80% in the Premier League so far this season – and lost possession a total of 15 times. He also had no shots in the game, perhaps the best summary of his lack of attacking impetus.
In some ways, it is interesting to see Ten Hag experimenting with his squad but Fred doesn’t have the technical quality to thrive as a creator for United.
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