Jose Mourinho just can’t seem to decide on a starting XI he likes at Manchester United.
The Special One is seen chopping and changing his side most games with his somewhat bloated squad. It can certainly be seen as playing a role in United’s underwhelming start to the campaign.
In light of this, the Red Devils could be set for a flurry of signings over January and next summer’s transfer window. Moreover, their policy looks set to change from investment in the future to the purchase of ‘finished articles.’
While Mourinho’s tinkering can’t compare to the erratic alterations of Pep Guardiola, he’s still a long way from knowing his strongest team.
This has taken its toll on the club’s defence in particular. Late lapses in concentration have robbed United of victories and even seen them subjected to painful defeats.
This was no more apparent than in the 4-0 romping at Chelsea. Chris Smalling had the mother of all bad days at the office and has struggled for consistency all season long.
Luke Shaw hasn’t lived up to expectations, Antonio Valencia has lacked a sound defensive nous and Eric Bailly has been hampered by injuries. As for Marcos Rojo, the less said the better.
Therefore, not only has there been indecision from Mourinho in his team selection, but in the very nature of United’s defending itself.
As a result, the Special One would like to splash the cash on some experienced defenders to try and shore up the back four.
It would mark, to an extent, a change in tactics from Mourinho. His purchase of Bailly shows a potential eye to the long-term, yet the introduction of Zlatan Ibrahimovic demonstrates that he has no problem with bringing in finished articles.
Consequently, according to the Mirror, United could be vying to sign Diego Godin and Jose Fonte.
The former is a 30-year-old who has plied his trade at a top European club, Atletico Madrid, for over 250 appearances and six years. He is a calming influence with immaculate organisation and even an eye for goal.
As for Fonte, he has four years worth of Premier League experience and is well adapted to the physicality of the competition. Furthermore, he is also in his thirties and has a European Championship medal to his name.
It’s not hard to see the benefits the Red Devils could reap from these signings.
However, with an already overflowing squad, any such purchases could necessitate the departures of players such as Phil Jones and Matteo Darmian.
Nevertheless, given United’s struggles and inability to string together wins, it would be unwise for them to rest on their laurels. While investing in experienced centre-backs may seem backwards, they could prove golden oldies in the short term.
Besides, Mourinho is Mr. Short Term after all.