On 19 September 2020, Manchester United lost their first Premier League game of the season at home to Crystal Palace.
Roll on to 5 December 2021 and Manchester United win their first Premier League game under Ralf Rangnick at home to Crystal Palace.
The same venue, the same opponent, the same fresh start and with relatively the same personnel – but two very different results.
Rangnick’s new regime was in full swing on Sunday, showing a totally transformed version of United to the one brandished by his much-loved predecessor.
A formation change, combined with a tweaked tactical approach, ensured the Red Devils beat Palace 1-0 in a fashion that was more convincing than the scoreline suggests.
Fred looked like a player reborn, Alex Telles continued to fill the void left by Luke Shaw, and Cristiano Ronaldo pressed!
There were many positive notes to take away from the weekend’s win at Old Trafford.
Yet some of United’s squad might fear for their place after witnessing Rangnick’s fresh ideas being put into action.
Here are three players we think might suffer under the interim manager:
Nemanja Matic
Nemanja Matic has been a trusted servant for so many years, whether in Chelsea or Manchester United colours.
He’s a cool head on experienced shoulders.
Unfortunately for him, however, Rangnick’s forward-thinking, high-pressing methods simply don’t suit the Serbian.
Speed has never been Matic’s strong point, something the German coach looks for in his players.
It spoke volumes that Rangnick brought on Donny van de Beek, Anthony Elanga and Mason Greenwood ahead of Matic against Palace.
Instead of playing safe, the man in the dugout wanted to punish the Eagles by bringing on pacy players. Matic’s time at the Theatre of Dreams might be slowly running out.
Juan Mata
Another whose clock is beginning to wind down is Juan Mata.
The Spaniard has been hiding in the shadows for some time but the darkness may consume him before too long.
Mata has made only two appearances this season, accumulating little more than an hour of football.
Like Matic, the 33-year-old doesn’t have the capability to press as Rangnick desires. A wonderfully gifted footballer, yes. A harrier and hassler of opponents? No.
Anthony Martial
Anthony Martial’s problem is nothing to do with age. At 26, he should be entering the prime stage of his development.
However, what may hold the France international back is his unwillingness to press from the front.
On some occasions Martial can’t seem bothered with the task of hunting the ball when United are out of possession. His overly-relaxed persona can give the impression of a player who doesn’t like to do the dirty work.
That won’t cut much mustard with Rangnick, who demands 100% desire and dedication from all his expensive stars.
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