Cavani... Of course.

When Manchester United brought in Cavani, it had many of us wondering. Was he going to be a Zlatan like impact, or a Falcao style flop? Up until now, although he is in some form, this question isn't necessarily completely answered.

 

There is no doubting that the seasoned target man still has plenty to give any team he puts the shirt on for. He is tenacious, gets into all the right areas and amongst many other traits works tirelessly to firstly bag goals and if unable to, bring others in to do so accordingly. Putting aside all of his qualities, he comes to a team where he potentially wasn't "needed".

 

Cavani joined Antony Martial and Mason Greenwood as an out and out "Number 9". The way things are going it begs the question... Who will Manchester United count on to be their talisman? 

 

Maybe all 3... However, it's rare a team will play 3 (out and out) strikers.

 

Mason Greenwood, 19 - Strong, quick, good with both feet and naturally a number 9 some might say. At this rate, we will probably never know. But for sure, he is the best right sided forward player at United at this moment.

 

Anthony Martial, 25 – Again, strong and quick. But he doesn't press and even Bruno can't assist him at the minute. Obviously, quality in front of goal at times and scored some great goals, but these flashes of brilliance are becoming less and less frequent.

 

Edinson Cavani, 33 – Presses hard, movement is always on point and has an unmatched desire to score. He is however at the later stages of his career, which will no doubt result in him losing pace and along with that, his threat. With the players in and around the team in attacking positions (Rashford, Martial, Greenwood) and the players who are waiting in the wings to come through (Diallo, Pellestri), maybe Cavani’s presence could result in their performance/development being hindered.

 

To summarise, the long-term plans can’t be based around Cavani. But right now, he is undoubtedly the current best out and out striker at the club…. and potentially the league.

 

We would love to hear your opinion, and remember to follow us on Twitter @_TheNorthStand!

 

Written by: James Elliott

Date: February 2021