Angel Di Maria is Leading the Manchester United Transformation
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Club Manchester United; for some, it is one of the biggest clubs in the world. For many, it is the biggest club in England. But, for all, it is going through one of the largest transformations in its history. Louis Van Gaal arrived in the summer along with a clutch of stars to start this process.
The hopes for the die-hard followers are a little subdued because no one is sure if Van Gaal will lead the revival (like he did at Bayern) or if United will follow the path of Liverpool (which struggled for many years). Though the star summer arrivals are supposed to improve the mood and performances, there still is an air of subdued expectations. As Van Gaal tried to put it in perspective, the process of transformation is slow.
The results aren’t great as of yet, but after seven games, they are back in Champion’s League places. So, what has changed? Who’s leading the transformation? Goals, assists, carrying expectations, etc.: it’s all one man – Angel Di Maria. The largest British transfer of all time, Di Maria has started justifying every penny that United has spent in the summer.
Experts look at goals, assists and key passes. But, they tell only half the story. The impact of Di Maria at United this season is much more than the goals and assists. After the disasters of last season, United faithful were looking for a liftoff. And it arrived in the form of Di Maria. He responded with goals on the pitch, assists that ended in fabulous goals. Di Maria has influenced the game so much that when they lost at Leicester after leading 3-1, the team attributed it to the substitution of Di Maria.
The season is still young and there is so much to play for before it is concluded that the revival of United is complete. But, just for the impact he has had on and off the pitch, Di Maria has already revived United. The end of the season may not see any silverware at Old Trafford. Next season may not see United back in Europe. But, one thing’s for sure – at this point of the season, the mood at United is one of optimism and realistic hopes.
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