United's Unbeaten Run Ends as Transfer Rumours Swirl
Manchester United's five-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League was abruptly halted on Monday night, with a 1-0 defeat at home to a resilient 10-man Everton. This setback at Old Trafford has intensified the scrutiny on manager Ruben Amorim as his team prepares for a challenging trip to face fifth-placed Crystal Palace this Sunday.
Midfield Revamp: The Pursuit of Federico Valverde
With the engine room identified as a key area for improvement, United are reportedly preparing a massive bid to strengthen their squad. According to a Spanish report cited by TEAMtalk, the club is "planning to submit" a £105 million offer for Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde.
The 27-year-old Uruguayan international, a mainstay at the Bernabéu since 2017, has won 14 major honours with Los Blancos. However, the arrival of manager Xabi Alonso has seen Valverde deployed at right-back due to injuries, leading to speculation about his contentment in the Spanish capital. This potential move underscores United's urgent need to revitalise a midfield that has seen Casemiro turn 34 and Manuel Ugarte struggle to adapt to the English top-flight.
Injury Blow for Palace Clash
Amorim's preparations for the Selhurst Park encounter have been dealt a significant blow with key players ruled out. In his pre-match press conference, the Portuguese manager confirmed that summer signing Benjamin Sesko will miss the match due to a knee injury.
The £74 million Slovenian striker, who has managed just two goals in six league starts, was forced off during the 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur and subsequently withdrew from international duty. Amorim stated, "Sesko is going to take a little bit more time, [Harry] Maguire again the same," confirming the defender's continued absence.
Tactical Debate and Glasner's Defence
Amorim's unwavering commitment to a 3-4-3 formation has faced criticism, particularly after the defeat to Everton where Luke Shaw was utilised as a left centre-back—a decision questioned by pundit Gary Neville.
Interestingly, Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner, who also employs a 3-4-3 system, has come to the defence of his counterpart. Glasner pointed to United's impressive underlying numbers, noting, "I think United have the highest xG in the Premier League for scoring goals... Their work-rate is much higher than it was last year." He also highlighted the impact of United's £200 million summer investment in their attack, which included signings like Bryan Mbeumo, who adds significant intensity to their forward line.
The stage is set for a fascinating tactical battle on Sunday as United seek to return to winning ways amid mounting pressure and a growing injury list.
