Manchester United completed their first signing of the summer when they got Fred over the line on Tuesday.
The Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder underwent a medical on Monday and is with the Brazil squad as they prepare for the World Cup in Russia.
The 25-year-old’s arrival doesn’t entail massive alterations in the way Jose Mourinho sets up his side on paper but should have a big impact on their approach and tempo.
Here, we run through the two most likely systems the Portuguese could deploy next season with Fred joining the current roster of players at his disposal.
4-3-3
Man United 4-3-3
Arguably the most likely set-up for United next season. The 4-3-3 system has brought about the most fluid displays for the Red Devils this term – which have been few and far between – particularly early on in the campaign.
It allows for their best players to take up their preferred roles. With Fred’s arrival in midfield, the balance the former Shakhtar man lends that area of the pitch is evident.
Nemanja Matic retains his anchorman status, shielding the defence and providing simple though effective distribution. Paul Pogba is afforded his favoured position on the left of the three-man midfield while Fred slots in on the other side of Matic.
While the Brazilian will chip in with the odd goal and assist, direct contributions to United’s ‘Goals For’ column isn’t where he’ll make his greatest impression. He offers Mourinho’s side far more penetration from midfield with his incisive forward passing. Despite his inclination to always attempt to find forward runners, Fred managed to retain an 85 per cent pass accuracy in last season’s Champions League.
He is renowned for his ability to carry the ball forward as well, providing more drive from the middle of the park. His pace and trickery makes him an accomplished dribbler through the middle. In the Champions League last term, he managed 2.9 successful dribbles per game over eight appearances, second only behind Ever Banega among central midfielders.
Suitability: 9/10
4-2-3-1
Man United 4-2-3-1
A more conservative approach from Mourinho would involve Fred being deployed alongside Matic in a 4-2-3-1 formation. With the protection of the double pivot behind him, Pogba would be allowed a free role in behind Lukaku.
The off-pitch relationship between the Frenchman and the striker – both represented by super agent Mino Raiola – often translated into some good link-up play between the duo during games. This system would help capitalise on that with Pogba and Lukaku playing in closer proximity.
The midfielder is no slouch in the air either – as was evident in his equalising goal in the Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium last season – and playing in an advanced role enables him to join Lukaku in the box to attack crosses, adding to United’s aerial threat from open play.
Pogba could also be offered a rest with any one of Sanchez, Juan Mata or Jesse Lingard operating as the number 10 instead.
Meanwhile, Fred’s physicality and strength in a challenge gives more bite to the midfield department. His presence alongside Matic makes them a formidable force ahead of the back-line. The Serbian anticipates danger and is clean in the tackle while Fred would be the more proactive ball-winner, and his mobility would compensate for his midfield partner’s lack of pace when tracking back.
He registered 2.9 tackles per game in last season’s Champions League, more than Matic (2.8), Sergio Busquets (2.4) and Fernandinho (2.1). Fred impressed as one of the holding midfielders in a 4-2-3-1 for Shakhtar in the tournament last term when they beat Manchester City 2-1 at home during the group stages. His performance piqued the interest of Pep Guardiola who considered signing him in January.
Ander Herrera has featured well in a double pivot with Matic last season but the Spaniard doesn’t offer anywhere near the athleticism, dynamism and passing ability that United’s new signing does.
Suitability: 8/10
How Fred compares to United’s midfielders.
