The real man to watch for Manchester United

Manchester United have been busy in the transfer window this summer but so far, in the past two games against Everton and Fulham, there has been one new stand out man and he goes by the name of Shinji Kagawa.

He showed impressive display s in the games played so far in the league, especially against a spirited Everton side, where it seemed like his outfield teammates didn’t turn up, and the positive thing is that it was just a glimpse of what’s to come.  

Some questioned the signing of the Japanese international as it was clear United required a creative playmaker that could also get some goals and rumours circulated around the footballing world that they would go for Internazionale’s Wesley Sneijder. Instead of the Dutchman, Sir Alex Ferguson decided to go for the young and exciting prospect that set the Bundesliga alight last season.

In the opening game against Everton I think it’s fair to say that United went about the game trying to pass their way into the box until Marouane Fellaini headed his side in front, which isn’t always the Man United way. When an opportunity comes, usually United don’t hesitate to get their shots off. 

Something that did remain from start to finish was Kagawa’s eagerness to create for his team, and that continued against the Cottagers.

Given the freedom he was clearly authorised to have by the gaffer, he looked really dangerous on and off the ball. Continuously making runs and producing triangles made it a lot easier for teammates to find a way out of difficult situations. When he did collect the ball in both games he looked to up the tempo of the match with his quick one touch passing or quick feet just outside the penalty area.

His movement around the pitch allowed him to pick up the ball around the middle of the park and create a consistent link between the midfield and attack, progressing his team further up the pitch to wear they produce the goods. Last season some fans and pundits considered this a player that they have missed. A player that could have helped them reclaim that Premier League title.  

One scary though for the other 19 teams in the league is that the young Japanese international hasn’t had the opportunity yet to show how effect he is with the ball at his feet running at defenders. A very intelligent dribbler who also has trickery in his armoury that will put defenders on the back foot.

When he does adjust to the physical English game, Kagawa will hopefully add to his goal tally as well as his assisting one which will take the pressure off the strikers to score all the goals. That will also help players like fellow new boy Robin Van Persie settle down and enjoy his football at the club.

The signing of the former Arsenal striker has somewhat shadowed Kagawa’s arrival but that will not bother the star as his job is clear to see in the Man United line up.

Jordan Brown

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