Our Manchester United fans here in the Transfer Tavern, are getting excited about the Alexis Sanchez deal and the fact Jose Mourinho can now call on one of the very best forwards in world football, after such a long transfer saga.
Many of our punters believe that by bringing Sanchez to Old Trafford, it could prove to be a Cantona-like move, the catalyst for years of dominance to once again grace the Red Devils.
Still, while there’s no doubt Sanchez will better the overall quality of the United squad but to say one player will change Mourinho’s current men into an instant title or trophy winning team is absurd, so our regular Manc claims in the bar.
The Sanchez deal shows the Red Devils mean business and is a huge statement to the rest of the Premier League, and if United are to start to hacking away at the 12 point gap local rivals City currently have, Sanchez, can play a pivotal role in that, without a doubt.
However, with all this in mind and being the current hot topic in the pub, our landlord takes a look at two reasons why Alexis Sanchez won’t be the Mourinho’s Cantona moment…
Other areas need improving
There were three, maybe four main areas at the start of the January transfer window that needed addressing; left-back, winger, midfielder and a backup striker.
With the Chilean coming in, he possibly addresses the winger problem which frees up Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford for the backup winger and striker roles. The recent upturn in form of Luke Shaw may settle down the fullback role, though that still leaves Mourinho short in midfield.
There’s still some imbalance to the team and a lot of possibly, maybes at the moment but United still need improving around the pitch.
Style of Play
Mourinho’s style of play may nullify Sanchez’s talent more than let them flow. He’s a stickler for tracking back and setting his stall out in a certain way to chop a team down.
The Chilean international may find himself as frustrated with life in Manchester as he did in London if he’s not handled right, like many of the regulars in the tap room fear. On the other hand, it may open the Portuguese’s mind up to more expansive and attacking play, much like the Old Trafford faithful have been used to over the decades.
