Why Griezmann should not be United’s priority

Would Griezmann bring more complications? – express.co.uk

The reason Manchester United are not higher in the Premier League table is not down to their formation. With a 4-3-3, they have played good football and been among the division’s most creative sides.

Paul Pogba’s performances are a source of controversy but this blog would argue he has relished his midfield role. The ex-Juventus man has always driven forward and looked for passes that unlock defences, something midfielders were not doing under David Moyes or Louis Van Gaal. The Frenchman has established himself as the man Jose Mourinho should build his team around.

Signing Antoine Griezmann, as the club are reportedly interested in doing, could cause more problems than find solutions. The Atletico Madrid man has undoubted ability, as we saw at the Euros, but he is most used to a central role just off a main striker. Giving him that role would mean either dropping compatriot Pogba, or changing to 4-2-3-1 and putting him in a double-pivot, where he would be less effective.

In the post-Fergie era, Manchester United have always tried to spend their way to the top. Now, there are signs for the first time that their current system is working. The next step is not another big name, it is a little more tactical stability and belief.