Skip to main content

OPINION: MUHD EL:BONGA IBRAHIM



David De Gea is simply the best goalie in the world without any doubt. He made 14 saves, the highest for any goalie in the league history in many years.
Arsenal had 33 shots on goal with 15 on target and couldn't break the deadlock more than once despite United having Pogba sent off in the last 15 minutes. Arsenal did the playing, created more chances, completed more passes, enjoyed more possession (75%) and eventually lost the game; Mourinho's side got dominated, created less chances, completed few passes, gained the lowest possession (25%) and eventually won the game not by a goal margin but by two.
Jose Mourinho came with a plan, reminiscent of Van Gaal's tactics two seasons ago where United won 2-1. He adopted a sit-and-wait approach and it worked for him very well and, thankfully, his side scored two goals, very early in the game. When Van Gaal tried something similar again against Arsenal, he conceded two first half goals in 10 minutes.
It's obvious, Mourinho has perfected, in his players, how to play in the 'Mourinho way'-- the bus-parking approach. I, for one, detest bus-parking even if it works well for him atimes. I prefer an open game. However, for Jose Mourinho, it is always one philosophy: the end justifies the means.
The problem with United isn't that they aren't playing well. They are just hiding in the shadow of City's sublime play that has, so far, yielded goals, entertainment, and fear-factor in teams. They're currently in a better position after 15 games as compared to Sir Alex's other title winning sides. Only three title-winning seasons of Sir Alex are currently better than Mourinho's side after 15 league games.
The problems are now compounded because Pogba automatically misses the Manchester derby after receiving his marching orders by referee Andre Marinner.

Comments