Mikael Silvestre discusses Manchester United’s 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers

Manchester United’s Premier League win over Wolves, the penalty that never was and the latest transfer rumours are all discussed by bettingexpert ambassador, Mikael Silvestre.

In this Article:

• Squeaky 1-0 win over Wolves
• The penalty that never was
• Onana and Pavard links
• The future of Harry Maguire
• Responsible Gambling

Squeaky 1-0 win over Wolves 

Manchester United were able to limp their way past a full-throttle Wolves side led by Gary O’Neil on Monday night at Old Trafford. It was a better start to the season for Erik ten Hag’s men than the one he made last season, but it was certainly a worrying performance from a United side that included two of their three summer signings in Andre Onana and Mason Mount.

In the end, it was an unlikely Raphael Varane header from an Aaron Wan Bissaka cross that won it for United. Silvestre was full of praise for the way Wolves approached the game against United.

“It was a difficult win because Wolves played very well.” 

“They did well to go out, attack and try to score goals. They had 23 attempts which is the most since Chelsea in 2005.” 

“They were willing to go and get a result at Old Trafford and take on one of the biggest teams in England.” 

One of the biggest issues during the game for United was the set-up in midfield. Casemiro was deployed as the deepest-lying midfielder. Luke Shaw was asked to form a box midfield alongside the Brazilian, with Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes occupying similar positions as the number tens. However, the gaps and space Wolves were able to exploit in midfield through the likes of Matheus Nunes and Mario Lemina.

“For United, the team wasn’t compact enough, so they conceded a lot of counterattacks and chances.” 

“The wide players and the midfield were easy to go through. Some people are pointing fingers at Casemiro, but he was left alone too many times.” 

“There was too much space between Rashford and the back line, so this is something that needs to be worked on.”

“Offensively, there was some good stuff. The decision-making of individuals will improve over the season, so I don’t think it will be an issue going forward.” 

“A positive is that the spirit remains the same. They tried to score at all costs, and it wasn’t pretty at the end, but Varane, with his goals, shows they have improved. It’s the type of game they may have lost before ten Hag came in.” 

“I think that’s the positive. They didn’t give up, and they got through the pain.” 

“Bruno had some bad passes and decisions before his chip to Wan Bissaka and a good cross on the half-volley for Varane.” 

The Penalty That Never Was 

It was a jam-packed Premier League debut for Manchester United’s new number one Andre Onana. Late in the game Wolves denied what appeared to be a clear penalty at Old Trafford. VAR refused to intervene after Man Utd Onana collided with Sasa Kalajdzic to make matters worse for Gary O’Neil’s side. Silvestre believes a penalty should have been awarded and that United were lucky to come away with a win.

“If you do that anywhere else on the pitch and you don’t get the ball but go into his face, it’s a foul.” 

“It could have been a penalty, and they got away with it.” 

“A draw would have been fair because Wolves were dangerous.”

Onana and Pavard links 

Recent reports have suggested United are interested in Everton midfielder Amadou Onana as ten Hag seeks to continue the revamp of his Manchester United side. It had been suggested that Sofyan Amrabat was a target once United managed to move on some of their current midfield players. When questioned on the prospect of Onana joining United, Silvestre was dubious about such a signing for United.

“I understand why, profile-wise, this is a player they are looking for, but when you have Scott McTominay, I don’t see what Onana will add to United if you want to step up and challenge for the title.” 

“He’s not a player United should be chasing.” 

“Physically, he and McTominay have the same profile, and it’s not an upgrade, so I don’t think it makes sense unless you’re looking for backup.”

Another player heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford is Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard. It had been the exit of Harry Maguire that would enable United to move in on the defender. United have had a bid rejected already. Silvestre believes the biggest quality that Pavard would offer is tactical flexibility due to his versatility.

“If Harry Maguire goes, he can play in a three-man defence or a four-man defence as well as right back, so he brings versatility.” 

“Steady defender. Similar to Victor Lindelof profile-wise. Good on the ball and reads situations. Not necessarily fast or strong, but reads the game.” 

“He could help the manager to change the system at the back when needed.”

“It would make sense for Harry to move on and get some game time and enjoy himself. He can become a leader again elsewhere and continue his chances of playing for England.” 

It’s Time For Maguire To Move On 

Yesterday it emerged that Harry Maguire plans to stay at Manchester United despite United accepting an estimated £30m bid from West Ham. The Hammers are said to have grown tired of waiting for the defender to agree to his exit from United. Despite Maguire’s determination to remain at Old Trafford, Silvestre believes Maguire should be looking to move on from his time at the club.

“I don’t think the fans will have fond memories of his time because last season was difficult, and the struggles started the season before.” 

“It was a good start, but at clubs like United, you have to keep your level.” 

“It’s time to move on for Harry.”

Responsible Gambling

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