Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has asserted that the recent tactical change was not the root cause of their disappointing display against Leeds, which ended in a 1-1 draw. According to Maguire, the team fundamentally lacked the bravery needed to control the ball effectively.
The England international elaborated on the game plan, detailing the unexpected shift to a three-centre-back formation.
We worked on this all week. We wanted to mirror their shape when out of possession and play quite aggressively.
Defensively, we set up with five at the back, but transitioned to four when we were in possession.
The midfielders were flexible. We knew we could gain a significant advantage in the centre since they only had two players there.
Perhaps we could have achieved more in that area. We should have been a bit bolder on the ball and not been afraid to take the initiative under pressure.
But right now, we're in a position where we aren't as brave as we need to be. We have to get that back because Manchester United require courage and composure to secure wins.
Following the draw at Elland Road, the Red Devils have now gone six matches without a win across all competitions, finding themselves languishing in the lower half of the league table.
