United’s Biggest Miss, And It’s Not Van Persie Or Fergie

You might be forgiven for thinking that van Persie was the missing piece in order for United to beat City at the weekend. But in truth, he wouldn’t make much of a difference either; partly because City were that good and United were that poor. Then, you might also argue that if Ferguson was still in charge, he would have galvanized the team a little bit more and would have at least snatched a draw.
Well, you’re wrong on both occasions because it’s not those two United have missed the most. Instead, it’s their 23 year-old Brazilian right-back Rafael, who enjoyed the best season to date in a United shirt last season but has been restricted to only his 2^nd start after sustaining a hamstring injury in the Community Shield.
Two of United’s poorest performances this season came at Anfield and the Etihad, in which they duly lost on both occasions. Last season, United managed to record victories at both grounds with Rafael playing a crucial role in both games. He scored a magnificent curler at Anfield, set-up Rooney’s 2^nd goal at the Etihad and won the free-kick that ultimately led to the winner.
Against Liverpool in the league cup, he was central to both attacking and defending. He changes the team’s dynamic in attack because he offers another dimension that the opposition’s team must be wary of, something that Jones/Smalling doesn’t offer because they’re not natural right-backs. Rafael’s natural instincts is to attack and that is what he is good at; crossing, combining with his winger, and running at the opposition. His surging runs allows United to play their style of football; attractive wing-play.
Last season, United’s player of the year’s shortlist mainly consisted of votes for Robin van Persie, Michael Carrick, and Rafael. His growing importance to the team is recognized by the fans, not just because he scored goals – and spectacular ones – but it’s more to do with the fact that he made his position his own. His natural energy and drive is what appeals to the fans; he’s a Gary Neville with more flair. Who knows, he could even go on to be better than his predecessor?
So, it’s been a very tough start indeed for David Moyes and his Manchester United side. Beating Liverpool even in a league cup tie might prove to be crucial, not just because his side responded well to the derby defeat, but because key players such as Rafael is now available at his disposal.
If you look at how Leighton Baines has grown to become one of the best left-backs in the world, who knows what Moyes can conjure up with Rafael? Don’t get too excited just yet, but what you’re thinking is certainly not out of the equation.