Manchester United's defensive weakness is a complex issue that can be traced back to several root causes, including tactical mismanagement and a lack of playmaking in the team.
One of the main reasons for Manchester United's defensive issues is their reliance on counter-attacking football. While this style of play has been successful in the past, it has become increasingly ineffective against top-tier defenses. The lack of width in Manchester United's attack has also contributed to their defensive woes, as opponents have been able to exploit gaps left by the lack of width.
Another factor contributing to Manchester United's defensive weaknesses is their reliance on individual players. While some players excel at certain positions, such as Paul Pogba or Bruno Fernandes, the team lacks a cohesive unit that can provide cover for each other. This has led to a lack of communication and overlapping between defenders, which has made it difficult for them to defend as a unit.
Tactical mismanagement has also played a role in Manchester United's defensive struggles. The team has struggled with consistency in their tactics, with managers frequently making changes to their playing style mid-season. This has led to inconsistency in their defense, with players not always knowing what to expect from game-to-game.
Finally, there is a lack of playmaking in Manchester United's squad. While the likes of Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford have shown flashes of brilliance, they have yet to fully establish themselves as key players in the team. Without effective midfielders to link up play and provide support to the defense, Manchester United struggle to keep tight control over games.
In conclusion, Manchester United's defensive weakness is a result of several root causes, including tactical mismanagement, a lack of playmaking, and a reliance on individual strengths rather than a cohesive unit. Addressing these issues will require significant changes to the team's approach to both defense and offense, and may take time to implement effectively.