[ti vu]

It's not a conspiracy theory so much as an opinion and trying to make sense of the situation.

Blind has had a few poor games no doubt but mostly at CB which isn't his natural position. He's played the majority of his career at LB, and is a much better player than Darmian going forward and defensively. So it seems strange to me that a right back who is in awful form is being preferred to him at LB.

So I'll try to explain using a more simple approach. With Blind having a bad game: he may not get skinned directly, but he's in bad position that create gap in which shuffle our defense line and hit us. City second goal, Kante goal, Blind stupidly broke our offside trap in 1st goal and 2nd goal vs West Ham last season as well as unreasonable marking on Reid

(Sorry to use this game as preference. Trying to make the point about the issue with Blind.)

... Blind for most part is better but his mistake is like sudden death and hit the team harder as it's unpredictable.


With Darmian having a mare like yesterday: he's still in correct defensive position making Tottenham players to en-route to calculated trapped area where Rojo, Pogba, Martial then Rashford were instructed to routinely track back and help. In a sense it went as plan taking into consideration of Darmian being consistently flawed. Tottenham right side attackers played right into Mourinho hand as Son is not that good while Sissoko has no end product.


I understand your point with Blind spent more time learning his trade at LB than Darmian does. However, in case of positioning and keeping defensive line shape, Darmian for all his flaw and un-Italian softness, at the very least he has the Italian positional discipline in him. I believe that was what Mourinho looked for and trusted this risky approach with Darmian

 

[forevruntd]

good one from Reddit (georgesco):

It upsets me when people hate on players without understanding some tactical basics. Rojo was SUPPOSED to cover LB because Darmian had a man-marking instruction on Eriksen-this is is a VERY common defensive tactical motif. Darmian was NOT out of position, he was doing exactly what he was supposed to. Just rewatch the game. There is a reason Tottenham couldn't create chances in their normal way (Eriksen in a pocket behind the midfield, turning with space), and Darmian was a huge reason for that. Mourinho trusts him a lot to give him responsibility to mark their most dangerous player.
A general rule is that if you think someone is "useless" at that high level of play, its more that you probably don't understand what was happening. So many instances where he prevented Tottenham unfolding in their final-third. Darmian did a lot of great work today (outweighs by a lot the few natural mistakes). Its just that you guys didn't see the work, otherwise this wouldnt have 100 upvotes.

 

[Keenst]

good one from Reddit (georgesco):

It upsets me when people hate on players without understanding some tactical basics. Rojo was SUPPOSED to cover LB because Darmian had a man-marking instruction on Eriksen-this is is a VERY common defensive tactical motif. Darmian was NOT out of position, he was doing exactly what he was supposed to. Just rewatch the game. There is a reason Tottenham couldn't create chances in their normal way (Eriksen in a pocket behind the midfield, turning with space), and Darmian was a huge reason for that. Mourinho trusts him a lot to give him responsibility to mark their most dangerous player.
A general rule is that if you think someone is "useless" at that high level of play, its more that you probably don't understand what was happening. So many instances where he prevented Tottenham unfolding in their final-third. Darmian did a lot of great work today (outweighs by a lot the few natural mistakes). Its just that you guys didn't see the work, otherwise this wouldnt have 100 upvotes.

Interesting. Mourinho clearly does trust him and he's certainly not as "useless" as many are claiming him to be.

 

[lawliet354]

He was beaten by Sissoko like 5 times in span of 10 minutes after Sissoko came on, I really do not understand what is going on with him anymore

 

[Lawman]

So I'll try to explain using a more simple approach. With Blind having a bad game: he may not get skinned directly, but he's in bad position that create gap in which shuffle our defense line and hit us. City second goal, Kante goal, Blind stupidly broke our offside trap in 1st goal and 2nd goal vs West Ham last season as well as unreasonable marking on Reid

(Sorry to use this game as preference. Trying to make the point about the issue with Blind.)

... Blind for most part is better but his mistake is like sudden death and hit the team harder as it's unpredictable.


With Darmian having a mare like yesterday: he's still in correct defensive position making Tottenham players to en-route to calculated trapped area where Rojo, Pogba, Martial then Rashford were instructed to routinely track back and help. In a sense it went as plan taking into consideration of Darmian being consistently flawed. Tottenham right side attackers played right into Mourinho hand as Son is not that good while Sissoko has no end product.


I understand your point with Blind spent more time learning his trade at LB than Darmian does. However, in case of positioning and keeping defensive line shape, Darmian for all his flaw and un-Italian softness, at the very least he has the Italian positional discipline in him. I believe that was what Mourinho looked for and trusted this risky approach with Darmian

Are you saying Jose thought I will trick Spurs into attacking Darmain as he is that poor?

 

[ti vu]

Are you saying Jose thought I will trick Spurs into attacking Darmain as he is that poor?

In a sense yes, but not entire point. The point is Darmian's positioning is spot on. Even when he lost in 1 vs 1, the attacker often run tricked to byline/ dead alley with on fire Rojo, Pogba, Martial then Rashford track back and pressure. Not many chance Tottenham cut us through the middle unlike how they managed in their games vs Chelsea, Arsenal, City.

Portugal used similar tactic vs Sissoko (let him freedom but tricked him into dead alley which he himself couldn't offer end product) while crowded midfield to pin back Pogba in deep position and cut off Griezmann and Payet link up. Relying on Sissoko or Son to run the show is like playing with your weaker foot while you're not two footed.

 

[Escobar]

good one from Reddit (georgesco):

It upsets me when people hate on players without understanding some tactical basics. Rojo was SUPPOSED to cover LB because Darmian had a man-marking instruction on Eriksen-this is is a VERY common defensive tactical motif. Darmian was NOT out of position, he was doing exactly what he was supposed to. Just rewatch the game. There is a reason Tottenham couldn't create chances in their normal way (Eriksen in a pocket behind the midfield, turning with space), and Darmian was a huge reason for that. Mourinho trusts him a lot to give him responsibility to mark their most dangerous player.
A general rule is that if you think someone is "useless" at that high level of play, its more that you probably don't understand what was happening. So many instances where he prevented Tottenham unfolding in their final-third. Darmian did a lot of great work today (outweighs by a lot the few natural mistakes). Its just that you guys didn't see the work, otherwise this wouldnt have 100 upvotes.

His general play was poor (actually the worst player on the pitch), going forward he offers no threat at all, he didnt shut down the left flang and it got alarmingly worse once Sissoko came on. So yeah, maybe he had to do a particular job but he didnt have a good game at all.

 

[Norris]

In terms of performances, probably. Most on here are citing Sissoko tearing him a new one multiple times, like yourself. All fair comments in a thread that'd supposed to be about his performances.

The comments are fair like you say, but to jump the gun and say he's not Utd quality and needs to be sold is what irks me sometimes. He had a bad game yes, his first in 5 appearances on the trot. Sissoko would have probably ripped Blind apart as well. His pace and athleticism was frightening.

good one from Reddit (georgesco):

It upsets me when people hate on players without understanding some tactical basics. Rojo was SUPPOSED to cover LB because Darmian had a man-marking instruction on Eriksen-this is is a VERY common defensive tactical motif. Darmian was NOT out of position, he was doing exactly what he was supposed to. Just rewatch the game. There is a reason Tottenham couldn't create chances in their normal way (Eriksen in a pocket behind the midfield, turning with space), and Darmian was a huge reason for that. Mourinho trusts him a lot to give him responsibility to mark their most dangerous player.
A general rule is that if you think someone is "useless" at that high level of play, its more that you probably don't understand what was happening. So many instances where he prevented Tottenham unfolding in their final-third. Darmian did a lot of great work today (outweighs by a lot the few natural mistakes). Its just that you guys didn't see the work, otherwise this wouldnt have 100 upvotes.

Interesting read. I don't agree completely with it though. I thought he was ok until Sissoko came on, then he really struggled to contain him.

 

[NinjaFletch]

good one from Reddit (georgesco):

It upsets me when people hate on players without understanding some tactical basics. Rojo was SUPPOSED to cover LB because Darmian had a man-marking instruction on Eriksen-this is is a VERY common defensive tactical motif. Darmian was NOT out of position, he was doing exactly what he was supposed to. Just rewatch the game. There is a reason Tottenham couldn't create chances in their normal way (Eriksen in a pocket behind the midfield, turning with space), and Darmian was a huge reason for that. Mourinho trusts him a lot to give him responsibility to mark their most dangerous player.
A general rule is that if you think someone is "useless" at that high level of play, its more that you probably don't understand what was happening. So many instances where he prevented Tottenham unfolding in their final-third. Darmian did a lot of great work today (outweighs by a lot the few natural mistakes). Its just that you guys didn't see the work, otherwise this wouldnt have 100 upvotes.

This is absolutely standard reddit wankery and best ignored imo.

 

[NinjaZombie]

The comments are fair like you say, but to jump the gun and say he's not Utd quality and needs to be sold is what irks me sometimes. He had a bad game yes, his first in 5 appearances on the trot. Sissoko would have probably ripped Blind apart as well. His pace and athleticism was frightening.


Interesting read. I don't agree completely with it though. I thought he was ok until Sissoko came on, then he really struggled to contain him.

It's impossible to say for sure whether Blind would've faired better. Lukaku theoretically should be bullying Blind but he handled the Everton striker well whenever they've faced each other.

I was impressed by Darmian when he first appeared for us. Seemed a proper full back who knew how to defend but seeing Sissoko do him over and over and then seeing Darmian's panicked expressions made the game more nervy than necessary for me.

I hope he gets his chances to discover his earlier form.

 

[Lawman]

In a sense yes, but not entire point. The point is Darmian's positioning is spot on. Even when he lost in 1 vs 1, the attacker often run tricked to byline/ dead alley with on fire Rojo, Pogba, Martial then Rashford track back and pressure. Not many chance Tottenham cut us through the middle unlike how they managed in their games vs Chelsea, Arsenal, City.

Portugal used similar tactic vs Sissoko (let him freedom but tricked him into dead alley which he himself couldn't offer end product) while crowded midfield to pin back Pogba in deep position and cut off Griezmann and Payet link up. Relying on Sissoko or Son to run the show is like playing with your weaker foot while you're not two footed.

Think you are over thinking here buddy. The way I saw it was Darmain was obviously instructed to follow Erickson into the hole and he did. But there is no way Jose thought lets trick Spurs into playing in this hole as Rojo is on fire and we can do that by fielding a dumpling like Darmain! The truth being Darmain looks shot out there and we'd be better with TFM!

 

[Roux]

I would prefer TFM or Young at left-back, Shaw and Darmian are just not good enough for a variety of reasons. Darmian looks nervous when going forward and a liability at the back.

 

[Annihilate Now!]

good one from Reddit (georgesco):

It upsets me when people hate on players without understanding some tactical basics. Rojo was SUPPOSED to cover LB because Darmian had a man-marking instruction on Eriksen-this is is a VERY common defensive tactical motif. Darmian was NOT out of position, he was doing exactly what he was supposed to. Just rewatch the game. There is a reason Tottenham couldn't create chances in their normal way (Eriksen in a pocket behind the midfield, turning with space), and Darmian was a huge reason for that. Mourinho trusts him a lot to give him responsibility to mark their most dangerous player.
A general rule is that if you think someone is "useless" at that high level of play, its more that you probably don't understand what was happening. So many instances where he prevented Tottenham unfolding in their final-third. Darmian did a lot of great work today (outweighs by a lot the few natural mistakes). Its just that you guys didn't see the work, otherwise this wouldnt have 100 upvotes.

That is one of the dumbest things i've read in quite a while. Literally ALL Spur's attacks were coming from that side...and the reason for that is Darmian is feckin' useless.

It also completely ignores the fact that he is terrible with the ball at his feet and offers nothing in attack.

 

[Robbie Boy]

That is one of the dumbest things i've read in quite a while. Literally ALL Spur's attacks were coming from that side...and the reason for that is Darmian is feckin' useless.

It also completely ignores the fact that he is terrible with the ball at his feet and offers nothing in attack.

Aye, it's abundantly clear that teams are targeting our left hand side as Darmian is a glaring weakness.

 

[SirMattBugsby]

I had watched some of his games for Torino and Italy, where he usually played at wing-back. That position suits him for a variety of reasons.

He's actually pretty good at dribbling, cutting in and crossing. So much so that I prefer him at LWB rather than RWB. Moreover, his defensive duty involved less tackling and more restricting.

Changing from Serie A to Premier League is not easy as it is. Add to that the change in position and role, and it's understandable why his form has suffered.

He's one of those players who'll immediately look better after leaving. I can only hope that team is not Chelsea.

 

[Fahad Jawaid]

I had watched some of his games for Torino and Italy, where he usually played at wing-back. That position suits him for a variety of reasons.

He's actually pretty good at dribbling, cutting in and crossing. So much so that I prefer him at LWB rather than RWB. Moreover, his defensive duty involved less tackling and more restricting.

Changing from Serie A to Premier League is not easy as it is. Add to that the change in position and role, and it's understandable why his form has suffered.

He's one of those players who'll immediately look better after leaving. I can only hope that team is not Chelsea.

Oh really, would he actually start looking like a Roberto Carlos, Dani Alves or a Maldini? He is such a nothing player, every fecking weak, i see him stinking up the place, attackingly he is actually non-existent, no wonder our Left wingers look so shit, he is never on the overlap providing two one one opportunities, and whenever the ball goes out to him, he gives it away, i saw us attacking and the ball played out to him in the center circle and he was trying to put it in the box, but put it out for a throw, he immediately put his hands up, but he does this all the time, every match whenever the ball goes out to him, he spoils every attacking move.

And then Defensively, according to many here and people like you who told me his is an excellent defender, he is weak and a coward, a guy like Rafael who was weaker and shorter in height than him, was twice a player, not only he had more heart, he was aggressive and determined. This guy doesn't deserve to wear the red shirt, i can excuse players who are not good enough sometimes which he obviously is, but i can't take this half hearted attempts at defending, he almost gave a penalty away today, thank feck Carrick was there to mop his shit. He should be the first one out.

 

[JJ12]

I would prefer TFM or Young at left-back, Shaw and Darmian are just not good enough for a variety of reasons. Darmian looks nervous when going forward and a liability at the back.

Shaw's had a rough couple of games since coming back from an horrific injury and now he's not good enough.

He will be outstanding for us.

 

[Robbie Boy]

Oh really, would he actually start looking like a Roberto Carlos, Dani Alves or a Maldini? He is such a nothing player, every fecking weak, i see him stinking up the place, attackingly he is actually non-existent, no wonder our Left wingers look so shit, he is never on the overlap providing two one one opportunities, and whenever the ball goes out to him, he gives it away, i saw us attacking and the ball played out to him in the center circle and he was trying to put it in the box, but put it out for a throw, he immediately put his hands up, but he does this all the time, every match whenever the ball goes out to him, he spoils every attacking move.

And then Defensively, according to many here and people like you who told me his is an excellent defender, he is weak and a coward, a guy like Rafael who was weaker and shorter in height than him, was twice a player, not only he had more heart, he was aggressive and determined. This guy doesn't deserve to wear the red shirt, i can excuse players who are not good enough sometimes which he obviously is, but i can't take this half hearted attempts at defending, he almost gave a penalty away today, thank feck Carrick was there to mop his shit. He should be the first one out.

Well said.

 

[stevoc]

So I'll try to explain using a more simple approach. With Blind having a bad game: he may not get skinned directly, but he's in bad position that create gap in which shuffle our defense line and hit us. City second goal, Kante goal, Blind stupidly broke our offside trap in 1st goal and 2nd goal vs West Ham last season as well as unreasonable marking on Reid

I think you need to simplify your own thinking mate, as the other guy said you seem to be over thinking it. Darmian is likely playing ahead of Blind because Mourinho doesn't rate Blind all that much.

 

[Robbie Boy]

I think you need to simplify your own thinking mate, as the other guy said you seem to be over thinking it. Darmian is likely playing ahead of Blind because Mourinho doesn't rate Blind all that much.

Yeah it really does seem that simple alright.

 

[Adam-Utd]

good one from Reddit (georgesco):

It upsets me when people hate on players without understanding some tactical basics. Rojo was SUPPOSED to cover LB because Darmian had a man-marking instruction on Eriksen-this is is a VERY common defensive tactical motif. Darmian was NOT out of position, he was doing exactly what he was supposed to. Just rewatch the game. There is a reason Tottenham couldn't create chances in their normal way (Eriksen in a pocket behind the midfield, turning with space), and Darmian was a huge reason for that. Mourinho trusts him a lot to give him responsibility to mark their most dangerous player.
A general rule is that if you think someone is "useless" at that high level of play, its more that you probably don't understand what was happening. So many instances where he prevented Tottenham unfolding in their final-third. Darmian did a lot of great work today (outweighs by a lot the few natural mistakes). Its just that you guys didn't see the work, otherwise this wouldnt have 100 upvotes.

That's all well and good, but that was the least worst part of his game yesterday. Positioning isn't something people complain about, it's the fact he's so negative on the ball, he doesn't overlap the winger as he should, defensively he gets too tight and then isn't quick or strong enough to deal with that.

So many times Son span away inside and got a shot away or passed dangerously, so many times Sissoko waited until he got tight and then just kick and ran leaving him for dust. He nearly gave a penalty away with his stumbling tackle in the 2nd half, it was amazing he wasn't subbed immediately TBH.

 

[stevoc]

I had watched some of his games for Torino and Italy, where he usually played at wing-back. That position suits him for a variety of reasons.

He's actually pretty good at dribbling, cutting in and crossing. So much so that I prefer him at LWB rather than RWB. Moreover, his defensive duty involved less tackling and more restricting.

Changing from Serie A to Premier League is not easy as it is. Add to that the change in position and role, and it's understandable why his form has suffered.

He's one of those players who'll immediately look better after leaving. I can only hope that team is not Chelsea.

Others have said this and i have no idea what way they use wing backs in Italy but from my understanding of the position I couldn't think of a worse player to fill that role than Darmian. Wing backs need to have great stamina Darmian is sucking wind an hour into every game, Wing backs need to be more comfortable in attack than fullbacks Darmian isn't. He barely attacks as it is from full back, playing him as a wing back would literally be a waste of position he would most likely still camp out in his own half.

 

[NinjaFletch]

I had watched some of his games for Torino and Italy, where he usually played at wing-back. That position suits him for a variety of reasons.

He's actually pretty good at dribbling, cutting in and crossing. So much so that I prefer him at LWB rather than RWB. Moreover, his defensive duty involved less tackling and more restricting.

Changing from Serie A to Premier League is not easy as it is. Add to that the change in position and role, and it's understandable why his form has suffered.

He's one of those players who'll immediately look better after leaving. I can only hope that team is not Chelsea.

The thing is, as plausible a theory as this might be, if we went to a system where Darmian could play wing back why on earth would Darmian be our choice to do it we could either play a player who is much stronger defensively or much stronger going forward given the cover for him.

I like Darmian well enough, and I think he's probably still a decent squad option at RB, but the idea that the answer to his problems is to change system to one that relies on him to produce more of an attacking output is bizarre to say the least. For all his faults defensively its his attacking contribution that rankles the most.

I also think Darmian's ability as a wing-back is being vastly overstated I can't profess to have watched a great deal of him for Torino, although he had a good game for Italy against England, but even going by something as simple as the Whoscored ratings (which tend to trend too high in my opinion because they can't accurately gauge lack of impact) he's only, in one season, ever scored above a '7' for his attacking output. I'd argue that its likely that that season was an exception and we're now seeing a regression to the norm.

 

[Roux]

Shaw's had a rough couple of games since coming back from an horrific injury and now he's not good enough.

He will be outstanding for us.

Well at the moment he's not - he's not even fit enough. We need a player who can play 4-5 games consistently. For me, Young is first choice at LB.

 

[ti vu]

Others have said this and i have no idea what way they use wing backs in Italy but from my understanding of the position I couldn't think of a worse player to fill that role than Darmian. Wing backs need to have great stamina Darmian is sucking wind an hour into every game, Wing backs need to be more comfortable in attack than fullbacks Darmian isn't. He barely attacks as it is from full back, playing him as a wing back would literally be a waste of position he would most likely still camp out in his own half.

That description of restricting is a simplifying version of what I said. I used to follow Serie A closely during Ronaldo time there up ill early 2000s. 1. Italian and Spanish love to play through the middle and play narrow. 2. Their full backs, wing backs are lesser ball winner compare to PL preference. 3. They're more into restricting crossing angle, slow down the attack waiting for support... 3. Positioning & discipline are top priority. 4 Losing 1 vs 1 is not the end of the world unless letting attacker cut inside and create confusion for DMs and CBs

As I said Darmian did well in that sense yesterday game and I believe Mourinho only asked as much from him and had plan to cover for him. Clearly Mourinho barked instruction at Martial then Rashford to track back and help instead of further/ different instructing to Darmian to do anything different. Rojo was programmed before game to cover for Darmian.

Remember Bale roasted just not long ago best RB Maicon? Maicon was not all that 1vs1 defensively. Benitez tried to man marking approach vs Tottenham than zonal and it backfired. Benitez did similar as Madrid manager vs Barcelona.

 

[SirMattBugsby]

That description of restricting is a simplifying version of what I said. I used to follow Serie A closely during Ronaldo time there up ill early 2000s. 1. Italian and Spanish love to play through the middle and play narrow. 2. Their full backs, wing backs are lesser ball winner compare to PL preference. 3. They're more into restricting crossing angle, slow down the attack waiting for support... 3. Positioning & discipline are top priority. 4 Losing 1 vs 1 is not the end of the world unless letting attacker cut inside and create confusion for DMs and CBs

As I said Darmian did well in that sense yesterday game and I believe Mourinho only asked as much from him and had plan to cover for him. Clearly Mourinho barked instruction at Martial then Rashford to track back and help instead of further/ different instructing to Darmian to do anything different. Rojo was programmed before game to cover for Darmian.

Remember Bale roasted just not long ago best RB Maicon? Maicon was not all that 1vs1 defensively. Benitez tried to man marking approach vs Tottenham than zonal and it backfired. Benitez did similar as Madrid manager vs Barcelona.

Thank heavens somebody gets these things! Seeing the posts here, I have understood one thing: watching too much Premier League is not good for appreciating the tactical side of football.

 

[m1y2]

Some fans are fecking crazy. Pretty much the only bad game this season and fans want to sell him.

Let's not forget Jose was shouting at Martial to track back several times and finally took Martial off.

Not one of his better games but Darmian was left exposed by Martial a lot.

Remember how Evra used to be skinned regularly by Lennon? Glad we sold him early.

WOW, your comment is pretty crazy, Darmian has been extremely awful for some time now, just because we had good games as a team and the games passed by him and he didnt have to defend doesnt mean he's not shit... He indeed is and never was good enough, apart couple of first games in the team in which he was okay but as always ppl gave a new player more credit than he probably deserved, so he was hyped up, can't believe somebody werre laughing at the option of taking Clyne over Darmian, he's three times better, better defensively and much better offensively and he's not anything special either..

Every fecking fullback sitting back not joining attack would look okay in a Manchester United team who is actually working well lately, we are mostly dominating the games so he has feck all to do which leads ppl to thinking that he's not that bad. His lack of attacking help is shocking which is arguably as important as defending these days. there is a difference of quality between the right hand side and left one for some reason. He's just liability who should never get into this team. And for 16 mil. that's fecking ridicilous what a fraud

 

[SirMattBugsby]

The thing is, as plausible a theory as this might be, if we went to a system where Darmian could play wing back why on earth would Darmian be our choice to do it we could either play a player who is much stronger defensively or much stronger going forward given the cover for him.

I like Darmian well enough, and I think he's probably still a decent squad option at RB, but the idea that the answer to his problems is to change system to one that relies on him to produce more of an attacking output is bizarre to say the least. For all his faults defensively its his attacking contribution that rankles the most.

I also think Darmian's ability as a wing-back is being vastly overstated I can't profess to have watched a great deal of him for Torino, although he had a good game for Italy against England, but even going by something as simple as the Whoscored ratings (which tend to trend too high in my opinion because they can't accurately gauge lack of impact) he's only, in one season, ever scored above a '7' for his attacking output. I'd argue that its likely that that season was an exception and we're now seeing a regression to the norm.

I'm not saying we should change systems to suit Darmian. Darmian is not even close to being that important for us.

My point is, several factors have played a role in his bad form, including the pace of English football and a change in position. The fact that he looks okay in defence but bad in attack is in stark contrast to the perception with Torino and Italy, where he regularly contributed in attacks.

The only way his quality can be determined is to play him at wing-back in Serie A, but at a higher level. Like, say, at Juventus. At the moment, there are far too many factors which are clouding our perception of him as a player.

I am actually okay with him leaving, since it would be good for both parties. My only fear, as I said before, is he could join Conte at Chelsea and immediately look a better player.

 

[NinjaFletch]

I'm not saying we should change systems to suit Darmian. Darmian is not even close to being that important for us.

My point is, several factors have played a role in his bad form, including the pace of English football and a change in position. The fact that he looks okay in defence but bad in attack is in stark contrast to the perception with Torino and Italy, where he regularly contributed in attacks.

The only way his quality can be determined is to play him at wing-back in Serie A, but at a higher level. Like, say, at Juventus. At the moment, there are far too many factors which are clouding our perception of him as a player.

I am actually okay with him leaving, since it would be good for both parties. My only fear, as I said before, is he could join Conte at Chelsea and immediately look a better player.

I don't see why that would be a fear. He's not going to become a better player for them than what they already have. At the very worst he'll give them squad depth.

Darmian isn't the first and won't be the last player who coped well in Serie A but has struggled with the transition to a different league (in fact, I would argue its close to becoming the norm) its his lack of quality beyond anything else thats the reason for him struggling. Its a shame, I had high hopes for him, but I think its true.

 

[SirMattBugsby]

Others have said this and i have no idea what way they use wing backs in Italy but from my understanding of the position I couldn't think of a worse player to fill that role than Darmian. Wing backs need to have great stamina Darmian is sucking wind an hour into every game, Wing backs need to be more comfortable in attack than fullbacks Darmian isn't. He barely attacks as it is from full back, playing him as a wing back would literally be a waste of position he would most likely still camp out in his own half.

Your arguments are valid, and further emphasize how different Serie A is from the Premier League. Darmian developed in the slower, more tactical environment of Italian football and his shortcomings here clearly show this.

He was actually pretty good in attack for Torino (usually watched Turin derbies, so I consider it a good reference). This might seem surprising, but his game never involved much running there as well. He would cut in and cross from the left flank, while in defence he stopped the winger from going wide or cutting in, depending on instructions.

 

[SirMattBugsby]

I don't see why that would be a fear. He's not going to become a better player for them than what they already have. At the very worst he'll give them squad depth.

Darmian isn't the first and won't be the last player who coped well in Serie A but has struggled with the transition to a different league (in fact, I would argue its close to becoming the norm) its his lack of quality beyond anything else thats the reason for him struggling. Its a shame, I had high hopes for him, but I think its true.

That's what remains to be seen. I personally don't agree, but you might be right..

 

[JoaquinJoaquin]

Well at the moment he's not - he's not even fit enough. We need a player who can play 4-5 games consistently. For me, Young is first choice at LB.

Plus, Shaw is at least a stone off of last season.

 

[dichinero]

I'm not saying we should change systems to suit Darmian. Darmian is not even close to being that important for us.

My point is, several factors have played a role in his bad form, including the pace of English football and a change in position. The fact that he looks okay in defence but bad in attack is in stark contrast to the perception with Torino and Italy, where he regularly contributed in attacks.

The only way his quality can be determined is to play him at wing-back in Serie A, but at a higher level. Like, say, at Juventus. At the moment, there are far too many factors which are clouding our perception of him as a player.

I am actually okay with him leaving, since it would be good for both parties. My only fear, as I said before, is he could join Conte at Chelsea and immediately look a better player.

Your arguments are valid, and further emphasize how different Serie A is from the Premier League. Darmian developed in the slower, more tactical environment of Italian football and his shortcomings here clearly show this.

He was actually pretty good in attack for Torino (usually watched Turin derbies, so I consider it a good reference). This might seem surprising, but his game never involved much running there as well. He would cut in and cross from the left flank, while in defence he stopped the winger from going wide or cutting in, depending on instructions.

With you on this one 100%

 

[NinjaFletch]

That's what remains to be seen. I personally don't agree, but you might be right..

I think ultimately though the only real explanation for why he may look better going forward at wing back is the greater space it affords him. If thats the case then I think it does become an issue of quality.

 

[RedPnutz]

WOW, your comment is pretty crazy, Darmian has been extremely awful for some time now, just because we had good games as a team and the games passed by him and he didnt have to defend doesnt mean he's not shit... He indeed is and never was good enough, apart couple of first games in the team in which he was okay but as always ppl gave a new player more credit than he probably deserved, so he was hyped up, can't believe somebody werre laughing at the option of taking Clyne over Darmian, he's three times better, better defensively and much better offensively and he's not anything special either..

Every fecking fullback sitting back not joining attack would look okay in a Manchester United team who is actually working well lately, we are mostly dominating the games so he has feck all to do which leads ppl to thinking that he's not that bad. His lack of attacking help is shocking which is arguably as important as defending these days. there is a difference of quality between the right hand side and left one for some reason. He's just liability who should never get into this team. And for 16 mil. that's fecking ridicilous what a fraud

It's true the difference in our left and right side Attack is stark. However that to me doesn't mean Darmian should be binned or has no place in the team.

It is easy to point out his poor positioning and lack of attacking contribution is all due to Darmian but the fact remains that Football is a team sport and he needs support from the other players too.

Martial is not tracking back enough and maybe that's why Darmian cannot venture to far up in case he needs to cover in a hurry. Maybe he looks troubled in Defence because the attacker in his flank is not helping out.

Look at the right flank. Valencia is a machine up and down the flank. And so is Mhikitaryan. Personally I felt that Shaw might have been a better athletic fit dor Sissoko yesterday.

It's funny we have a thread deriding the people who boo Fellaini, yet easily the player performance threads are full of vitriol for many of our own players. Yes it is an Internet forum but surely players have Internet access too?

We are constantly throwing our own players under the bus (in a forum where the media can easily pick up) yet moan when Jose criticises any players.

I am not even a big fan of Darmian, but I am defending him because far too often our fans dish out criticisms and negativity without any patience and perspective. You know what, Jose still picked him in this match over Shaw, Blind and Young and that means something.

Honestly the amount of fans wanting to sell our players and dump them after a few performances is pretty pathetic.

 

[DanClancy]

Interesting. Mourinho clearly does trust him and he's certainly not as "useless" as many are claiming him to be.

Clearly Mourinho trusts him but there's no doubt he'll be very worried about the way he couldn't handle Sissoko. He has Zaha to face midweek, I hope there's a huge improvement although with Valencia out he might be moved across to right back.

 

[m1y2]

It's true the difference in our left and right side Attack is stark. However that to me doesn't mean Darmian should be binned or has no place in the team.

It is easy to point out his poor positioning and lack of attacking contribution is all due to Darmian but the fact remains that Football is a team sport and he needs support from the other players too.

Martial is not tracking back enough and maybe that's why Darmian cannot venture to far up in case he needs to cover in a hurry. Maybe he looks troubled in Defence because the attacker in his flank is not helping out.

Look at the right flank. Valencia is a machine up and down the flank. And so is Mhikitaryan. Personally I felt that Shaw might have been a better athletic fit dor Sissoko yesterday.

It's funny we have a thread deriding the people who boo Fellaini, yet easily the player performance threads are full of vitriol for many of our own players. Yes it is an Internet forum but surely players have Internet access too?

We are constantly throwing our own players under the bus (in a forum where the media can easily pick up) yet moan when Jose criticises any players.

I am not even a big fan of Darmian, but I am defending him because far too often our fans dish out criticisms and negativity without any patience and perspective. You know what, Jose still picked him in this match over Shaw, Blind and Young and that means something.

Honestly the amount of fans wanting to sell our players and dump them after a few performances is pretty pathetic.

Sorry I will stop reading here, I strongly disagree with that, he's clearly out of his dept and I am sure he will be off soon in the nearest transfer window, possibly in the summer, Young, TFM and even Blind are way better there even though it's not their natural position or are very raw for that. He might have a place in the team right now but so has Rooney and Fellaini and none of them is here from the next season..

darmian is getting gametime and trust by mourinho still he's not abletofind his feet simply because he's not good enough, he was actually average to shocking in 90% of games he played for us and no we surely dont have a place in the squad for him, right now he's still here because it's mourinho's first season, he can't get rid of everyoneat once

 

[RedPnutz]

Sorry I will stop reading here, I strongly disagree with that, he's clearly out of his dept and I am sure he will be off soon in the nearest transfer window, possibly in the summer, Young, TFM and even Blind are way better there even though it's not their natural position or are very raw for that. He might have a place in the team right now but so has Rooney and Fellaini and none of them is here from the next season..

darmian is getting gametime and trust by mourinho still he's not abletofind his feet simply because he's not good enough, he was actually average to shocking in 90% of games he played for us and no we surely dont have a place in the squad for him, right now he's still here because it's mourinho's first season, he can't get rid of everyoneat once

Agree to disagree then. He's still playing ahead of Blind, Shaw and Younf for now. By that logic, those guys should be sold first then.

 

[stevoc]

Your arguments are valid, and further emphasize how different Serie A is from the Premier League. Darmian developed in the slower, more tactical environment of Italian football and his shortcomings here clearly show this.

He was actually pretty good in attack for Torino (usually watched Turin derbies, so I consider it a good reference). This might seem surprising, but his game never involved much running there as well. He would cut in and cross from the left flank, while in defence he stopped the winger from going wide or cutting in, depending on instructions.

That actually makes sense having watched him, his stamina is atrocious.

I think Darmian is just a case of a player not suited to this team and/or league. I'm sure once he goes back to Italy and plays in the particular set-up you described he will look a lot more comfortable again.

He just lacks some of the basic attributes needed to be a top fullback in the Premier League.

 

[MoneyMay]

I know a few will not like this bit because apparently we're not allowed to talk about player mentality, but it's quite obvious that he's a player who has a weak mentality and needs a run of games to build his confidence up. Sissoko is a very good player, but Darmian should not be beaten like that. His 1 v 1 defending has been terrible since Sanchez ripped him apart. Regarding his attacking, he's really, really bad. He takes no ownership and is quick to release the ball. Which, at times, puts the receiver under immense pressure. And then when he does have time and space, he can't generate enough power in his crosses, and each one of them seems to be a weak (low) cross.

Mourinho's insistence on using him over Blind is weird. Maybe Darmian is following his instructions better, but he should be nowhere near that LB position. His positioning is really bad at times at LB (see Newcastle away last season), and I'd rather have some quality on the ball.