There is no replacing Carrick, just as there was no replacing Keane. We just get a different player who brings a different set of skills to the table and move on.
Future planning - Replacing Carrick
- Thread starter Pexbo
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In the latest episode of the United Hour Podcast, Nik (@Rood) and Imran (@Annihilate Now!) are here to discuss Amad saving our blushes in a win against Southampton as well as our now annual loss at home to Brighton. They discuss Amorim's post-match comments, revisit how mid-table we may or may not be, and discuss some transfer news.
Would love Modric but if not then carvalho as destroyer with Herrera and pogba ahead
Yeah this.
I tend to think that there are two kinds of defensive minded midfielders:
I've always been a fan of the former and think that's what we need. There seem to be precious few around at the moment, though. I'd love if we went in for McCarthy.
- Holding midfielders who hold in front of the defence and plug any gaps with decent positioning, eg. Carrick
- Defensive midfielders who run around, press, tackle and defend in the middle third of the pitch, eg. Hargreaves
I've always been a fan of the former and think that's what we need. There seem to be precious few around at the moment, though. I'd love if we went in for McCarthy.
Blind, pogba Herrera. Defensively weak? No way.
So you are basically saying Blind to replace Carrick then?
That's not a Van Gaal "balanced" midfield in any way shape or form.
If he had that midfield he would severely restrict Pogba's natural game, his instinct to try risky passes and shoot from distance.
You've got a 6 and two attacking 8s there who prefer to play with the attacking freedom and responsibilities of a 10.
we don't need carrick type of player - DLP, we need tough tackler who can shield the defense and is intelligent and can pass. Something between no 6 and 8.We have got too many good players attacking wise and creative enough.. Schneiderlin looks to fit the bill perfectly.
Other than that we just need someone ASAP, someone physical, quick, with good defensive skills I wouldn't mind another b2b like Naingollan but he's pretty close to what we already have in Herrera but maybe more physical. I also like Kondogbia.
From our books - Ben Pearson, he's better talent than Blind who I see as backup option in the future. Hope he gets some games next season. TFM will be a huge player but not quite ready for the first team football..
So no need for direct replacement, we need player solid defensively, mobility-wise first and if his passing is good than good..
Other than that we just need someone ASAP, someone physical, quick, with good defensive skills I wouldn't mind another b2b like Naingollan but he's pretty close to what we already have in Herrera but maybe more physical. I also like Kondogbia.
From our books - Ben Pearson, he's better talent than Blind who I see as backup option in the future. Hope he gets some games next season. TFM will be a huge player but not quite ready for the first team football..
So no need for direct replacement, we need player solid defensively, mobility-wise first and if his passing is good than good..
Blind isn't good enough to be a defensive midfielder at the top level. I'm yet to be convinced he's even a DM. Good player to have in the team but not a patch on Carrick.
Agree with this. Blind has had a good first season and reminds me of a younger Carrick.
Not sure replacements like that ever work out to be fair. Every player is unique in his own so rather than trying to replicate Carrick, we should look at reshaping the midfield around Herrera, who will rise in prominence as Carrick wanes. That said, there is a sense that we should've sealed the Thiago transfer because he would've been a good replacement for Scholes. So considering that and in the spirit of the thread - Saul Niguez would be a quality replacement for Carrick in the medium and long term.
He is someone with good passing range and technique with room for improvement as he matures. Reads the game expertly for his age and has a knack for diagnosing opposition attacks. Defensively aware, judicious with the ball and a clean tackler. Versatile - has experience as a central defender, defensive midfielder, wide midfielder in Simeone's system and central midfielder. Xabi Alonso is probably the closest comparison to Carrick that I can think of in European football. And Saul is very similar to him or Javi Martinez, another player who was heavily linked with us and has versatility like Saul does.
At 20 years old, his age would be perfect for United. Despite being well developed, he's still finding his feet at the top level so there won't be any rush to play him every game. Carrick is still playing at a high level so we could bring him along at a decent rate with a smattering of sub appearances and a few starts when Carrick needs rest/ is injured. Then once Carrick wanes in a couple of seasons, Saul would be a more consistent player, would be primed to step into his spot full time, plus he would be experienced with the league and the system by then.
AFAIK he also has a decent buyout clause of €24 million ~ £17 million (http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/98240/saul-niguez-renews-with-atletico-madrid-until-2018/) which would be great value for money considering his talent and future development. Could easily be worth more if Atletico renew the contract beyond 2018 and remove the clause.
Xhaka would be the second choice. Similar type of player to Saul, but maybe a little less defensively aware than him overall. In terms of playing style he is quite similar to Schweinsteiger. The key with both those players would be making them more disciplined. Since they're quite young at mobile, they have a propensity for charging forward at times, thus neglecting their defensive responsibilities. But as Herrera has shown, players who haven't yet reached their peak are quite malleable and willing to take criticism on board. Both of these players have the tools to be among the best deep lying playmakers or pseudo defensive midfielder around, and we have the ideal manager to help them iron out the flaws.
He is someone with good passing range and technique with room for improvement as he matures. Reads the game expertly for his age and has a knack for diagnosing opposition attacks. Defensively aware, judicious with the ball and a clean tackler. Versatile - has experience as a central defender, defensive midfielder, wide midfielder in Simeone's system and central midfielder. Xabi Alonso is probably the closest comparison to Carrick that I can think of in European football. And Saul is very similar to him or Javi Martinez, another player who was heavily linked with us and has versatility like Saul does.
At 20 years old, his age would be perfect for United. Despite being well developed, he's still finding his feet at the top level so there won't be any rush to play him every game. Carrick is still playing at a high level so we could bring him along at a decent rate with a smattering of sub appearances and a few starts when Carrick needs rest/ is injured. Then once Carrick wanes in a couple of seasons, Saul would be a more consistent player, would be primed to step into his spot full time, plus he would be experienced with the league and the system by then.
AFAIK he also has a decent buyout clause of €24 million ~ £17 million (http://www.insidespanishfootball.com/98240/saul-niguez-renews-with-atletico-madrid-until-2018/) which would be great value for money considering his talent and future development. Could easily be worth more if Atletico renew the contract beyond 2018 and remove the clause.
Xhaka would be the second choice. Similar type of player to Saul, but maybe a little less defensively aware than him overall. In terms of playing style he is quite similar to Schweinsteiger. The key with both those players would be making them more disciplined. Since they're quite young at mobile, they have a propensity for charging forward at times, thus neglecting their defensive responsibilities. But as Herrera has shown, players who haven't yet reached their peak are quite malleable and willing to take criticism on board. Both of these players have the tools to be among the best deep lying playmakers or pseudo defensive midfielder around, and we have the ideal manager to help them iron out the flaws.
I think Pogba has most of those qualities without being as effective as a specialist (Mascherano). Pogba is an all rounder though.
He's got the potential to be a much better all round player than a Mascherano
It all depends on which formation van Gaal wants to build the team around. He has stated before that he prefers either a 4-3-3 with a holding midfielder instead of a #10, or a 4-2-3-1 with wingers and a #10 behind the striker.
If we continue playing the 4-3-3 with a holding midfielder, Blind should be replacing Carrick in the long term. People who don't rate him should analyse him a bit more. What he does for the team in terms of positioning himself, pressing the opponent etc isn't something you'd notice easily unless you've got your eyes specifically on him. He hasn't got those physical skills you'd notice easily without paying a lot of attention. Neither has he got Carricks passing range, but when it comes to intercepting, winning the ball and retaining possession, he's an excellent defensive midfielder. In my opinion, the defensive midfielder should not be the main playmaker in an ideal team. It seems like too many people want someone like Carrick there (who is the main playmaker) but it should not be necessary. Look at Barcelona, they have Busquets there (or Mascherano). Blind is a Busquets type of player and he actually beats Busquets in terms of statistics (look it up on Squawka). He has an average of more than 3 interceptions per game IIRC which is extremly high. I rate him about as good as Matic and the DM spot should be his in the future.
I think we should focus on getting an advanced playmaker instead, someone like Pjanic, Kovacic or Pogba.
Next season, I'd love to see this:
Blind
Herrera - *new main playmaker*
Fellaini could be the joker on the bench in most games, and be in the starting XI in tough games where we need that extra physicality and presence.
If we continue playing the 4-3-3 with a holding midfielder, Blind should be replacing Carrick in the long term. People who don't rate him should analyse him a bit more. What he does for the team in terms of positioning himself, pressing the opponent etc isn't something you'd notice easily unless you've got your eyes specifically on him. He hasn't got those physical skills you'd notice easily without paying a lot of attention. Neither has he got Carricks passing range, but when it comes to intercepting, winning the ball and retaining possession, he's an excellent defensive midfielder. In my opinion, the defensive midfielder should not be the main playmaker in an ideal team. It seems like too many people want someone like Carrick there (who is the main playmaker) but it should not be necessary. Look at Barcelona, they have Busquets there (or Mascherano). Blind is a Busquets type of player and he actually beats Busquets in terms of statistics (look it up on Squawka). He has an average of more than 3 interceptions per game IIRC which is extremly high. I rate him about as good as Matic and the DM spot should be his in the future.
I think we should focus on getting an advanced playmaker instead, someone like Pjanic, Kovacic or Pogba.
Next season, I'd love to see this:
Blind
Herrera - *new main playmaker*
Fellaini could be the joker on the bench in most games, and be in the starting XI in tough games where we need that extra physicality and presence.
We don't necessarily have to find a like for like replacement. Just someone who can play in that position to a high quality, even if their actual style of play is quite different to Carrick's.
Of the players in the PL the most obvious two who jump to mind are Schneiderlin and McCarthy and I'd be happy signing either. I'm sure there might be better options elsewhere too though
Of the players in the PL the most obvious two who jump to mind are Schneiderlin and McCarthy and I'd be happy signing either. I'm sure there might be better options elsewhere too though
People are seriously writing off blind who, at points, has been very good for us this season. Carrick, whilst being brilliant, has also come in with our new formation, which is generally more balanced.
Blind was playing in all sorts of formations, without herrera and mata. He should be given the benefit of the doubt and at least given a chance. In this 433, he could really excel.
Blind was playing in all sorts of formations, without herrera and mata. He should be given the benefit of the doubt and at least given a chance. In this 433, he could really excel.
People keep mentioning Pogba but if he comes in he replaces Herrera not Fellaini/Carrick. That's just the way Van Gaal is.
I think Blind is a suitable replacement for Carrick personally.
I think Blind is a suitable replacement for Carrick personally.
Busquets would be ideal.
Just saw that he's only 26. Seems like he's been around forever.
Maybe he'll be looking for a change of scenery soon.
Blind will be a great replacement and add the important element of energy to our midfield. However, we will lose the element of having a deep lying playmaker with great defensive awareness when Carrick does leave. As such, I believe an ideal replacement will be a player in the mold of Carrick to add balance to our midfield.
William Carvalho
Or even Javier Martinez or Sergio Busquets if they are available.
William Carvalho
Or even Javier Martinez or Sergio Busquets if they are available.
Worth keeping an eye on Foss - Mensah's progress. Looks a real talent and will be a physical monster. I can see him sitting behind another two mids very well.
Best post of the thread. Carrick, Pirlo and Xavi Alonso, three great, deep playmakers all winding down at about the same time. It's a shame Carrick never really got the credit he deserved, either from some sections of the United support or from the wider audience in England. I know all my foreign friends rate him VERY highly. Should've been anchoring the England midfield for the last 7-8 years. Much like the England team shouldv'e been built around Scholes when he was at his prime.
If we can keep Carrick fit for another 2 seasons and interchange him with Daley then I think we have a replacement in Timothy Fosu Mensah Of course it's early and many things can happen but he has the potential
Pogba does more defensive work than people give him credit for and in our current 4-3-3 Herrera is the #8 that plays more reserved while Fellaini is that more attacking. If you look at the way Juve play Pogba's role is very similar to Fellaini's in our current set-up.
Yeah I agree with that, I think Pogba could replace Fellaini well in our system and he'd give a very different option to him at the same time which is why I would keep both. I think it's why Schneiderlin is the best option for us right now as he can offer a more physical option at 8 while offering the balance of attack and defense before eventually moving to 6 in a few years.
The 4-3-3 is definitely the way forward as it offers better squad management in that we have lots of attackers and midfielders at the moment, quality ones, and it really finds a spot for them all. Previously when discussing midfield you might find it difficult finding a spot for Mata, who can now be included in the front 3 on the right while still having a quality 3 behind him. Taking out RVP and Falcao has solved so much.
That has been my thoughts regarding Schneiderlin as well, I guess it just depends on if he has enough on the ball as a #8 for what LvG wants, he's clearly better defensively than Fellaini but I don't think he offers as much in attack, so I guess it's down to how LvG wants that second #8 to play and if he feels there's time to see if Blind can replace Carrick eventually or has someone in mind and doesn't feel the need for Schneiderlin as a 2 for 1 CM.
Without a doubt, 4-3-3 and most importantly just one striker has really boosted our performances, it gives a clearer picture as well as to where we can buy to upgrade and strengthen next season.
Be very hard to replace Carrick. His type of style players in the holding role are dying off now, and it's very rare you now see a player with excellent passing and defensive attributes. Its normally one or the other.
That said, Carrick was converted to a CDM when he come to us, but played behind the striker at Spurs so I guess it could be about finding someone who we feel has got the right attributes to drop into the deeper role. Was a genius move by Sir Alex and definitely paid off. Carrick has been arguably our most important player over the last 6-7 years. What he brings to the team is massively underrated, in my opinion.
That said, Carrick was converted to a CDM when he come to us, but played behind the striker at Spurs so I guess it could be about finding someone who we feel has got the right attributes to drop into the deeper role. Was a genius move by Sir Alex and definitely paid off. Carrick has been arguably our most important player over the last 6-7 years. What he brings to the team is massively underrated, in my opinion.
You know in terms of replacing players like alonso, carrick and pirlo, Blind is a pretty good attempt.
His form dropped a bit in recent weeks in midfield but its picked up again since. He's 24 or something so its a role he could grow to be very good in. Its pretty young for the role
Hes had good first season too.
His form dropped a bit in recent weeks in midfield but its picked up again since. He's 24 or something so its a role he could grow to be very good in. Its pretty young for the role
Hes had good first season too.
How's Javi Martinez doing at the moment?
Have been a big fan of him. Quite underrated as well IMO. Just 26 years and has played at CB too. Might have a look at him considering he has been warming bench at Bayern. Been injured since long time now. Put agent De Gea to work!
He hasn't been warming the bench at Bayern, he tore his ACL in the German equivalent of the Charity Shield and has been out injured all season.
Didn't Ander play in the same Bilbao side? Maybe he will have to chip away at him.
Ben Pearson 
This summer a more physical/athletic midfielder is the priority. Someone who can play in a 2 with Carrick or Blind or a 3 including Herrera/Mata/Di Maria/Fellaini. When replacing Carrick it completely depends on the qualities of that signing and the rest of the existing first choice midfield at the time. Not just signing someone you can call a "6".
As close as ready made replacement within any players linked with us. Although if Busquets available (which is close to impossible) ...
If Javi Martinez can ever get himself fit for a run, I'd be all over that. Fantastic player.
I have always been a fan of Martinez too - not seen much of him lately but a few years ago he was the talk of the town.
I think Blind can be Carricks replacement in the medium term anyway - he has a year or two to learn the role, but already has most of the basic attributes. Just needs to improve his decision making (regarding when to go forward) and perhaps his defensive positioning for that role.
I think Blind can be Carricks replacement in the medium term anyway - he has a year or two to learn the role, but already has most of the basic attributes. Just needs to improve his decision making (regarding when to go forward) and perhaps his defensive positioning for that role.
Johannes Geis for me. He'll be one of those players in 2 years time that half the Caf will be cursing we didn't go in for while he's still at Mainz. Quality player and a leader despite being so young. Future rock of the German midfield.
Schneiderlin is the most obvious option imo
Schneiderlin screens the defence but isn't a playmaker. I would stilllike him to come to us this summer as the midfield destroyer.
Ideal Carrick replacement is Ilkay Gündoğan imo. 12/13 Gündoğan was superb, watch him in the CL final 2012 and the German Super Cup vs Bayern. The best midfielder on the pitch. If he maintains his fitness & keeps improving then he's the one we should go for. He'd be perfect for us and would replace Carrick with the potential to be better than Carrick with time. Of course his back injury was a major concern but he has came back this season and if he maintains fitness then he's worth it imo. He has only 1 year remaining on his deal at the moment so his price would probably be around €18m.
Ideal Carrick replacement is Ilkay Gündoğan imo. 12/13 Gündoğan was superb, watch him in the CL final 2012 and the German Super Cup vs Bayern. The best midfielder on the pitch. If he maintains his fitness & keeps improving then he's the one we should go for. He'd be perfect for us and would replace Carrick with the potential to be better than Carrick with time. Of course his back injury was a major concern but he has came back this season and if he maintains fitness then he's worth it imo. He has only 1 year remaining on his deal at the moment so his price would probably be around €18m.