English outlet, The Guardian is reporting that Manchester United are in talks with former Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde regarding taking over at Old Trafford as the interim manager. Valverde has been unemployed ever since his dismissal from Barcelona where he won two La Liga titles and a Copa del Rey title.
Valverde is known for his tactical flexibility as he is not someone who has a preferred formation or tactical identity. His Athletic Bilbao side generally lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation and were known for their high pressing style. But during his time at Barcelona, he was also accused of being defensive and taking Barcelona away from the “Barcelona way”.
Ernesto Valverde’s attacking 4-2-3-1 formation at Manchester United
Surely at Manchester United, if appointed, Valverde will be given a direction to play attacking football. So, at least at the start, Valverde will look to play an attack minded formation with the 4-2-3-1. Valverde’s midfielders generally are expected to cover a lot of ground, so thereby he would prefer Fred in the double pivot along with Donny Van de Beek. Upfront, if Valverde wants his team to press high, Fernandes would have to work extra hard in order to compensate for the lack of pressing from Ronaldo. Valverde’s experience in dealing with a similar aging superstar in Lionel Messi at Barcelona will help him in figuring out the best role for Ronaldo.
