Manchester United have conceded just twice in their last four games, as Erik ten Hag's side look much-improved defensively with some new principles.
After a calamitous opening two games to the 2022/23 Premier League season, the Reds have picked up a maximum 12 points against Liverpool, Southampton, Leicester City and Arsenal.
Many have highlighted the performances of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane as the centre-back pairing in these fixtures.
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The Argentine has partnered up with the former Real Madrid defender to make a solid partnership so far.
They have also had Diogo Dalot and Tyrell Malacia flanking them, both have also impressed fans with their ability.
However, despite the individuals showing defensive promise in these games, the most important aspect has been how United have defending as a team.
Last season we saw huge gaps in between United's lines, players getting dragged out of position and an entire mess in defensive transitions.
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This was partly because United's wingers would be shaking their out of possession responsibilities, which meant that their full-back was often overran.
The midfield were also dragged around and left their zones too often, it was a mess.
But, Ten Hag is slowly making changes in this respect and beginning to see the results.
"Arsenal, they played well, but we defended well," he told Sky Sports after United's latest win.
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"I never had the feeling that they would break us," he added.
However, the manager stressed that it was a team effort which led to the confidence in United's defence.
"We have a good defensive line, but we defend as a team with all 11 (players)."
Both Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho have been much better at tracking runs and helping out their teammates. Meanwhile, new signing Antony seemed like a natural in defensive responsibility after being with Ten Hag at Ajax for two years.
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Christian Eriksen has also made a big difference. He was named Man of the Match against the Gunners on Sunday.
Before that, it was shared that he had averaged the most running per game out of any player in red this season.
Despite losing the ball for a goal against Brentford, since then the Denmark international has been quality in possession of the ball in midfield for United.
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His calm presence has meant that there have been less dangerous turnovers which led to trouble for United last season.
Of course, the personnel in the backline has also been a big reason for the turnaround too. Their passion to defend has infected the entire squad and fanbase.
While it is just four games of evidence, it's promising to see major improvements in United's team defence. It was what caused the most problems at Old Trafford last season.
What's even more promising is that United are improving these aspects before Casemiro is bedded into the starting line-up. Once he is settled and playing, you can only expect more improvements in the defensive stability of the team.
Featured Image Credit: Manchester UnitedTopics: Manchester United, Arsenal, Erik Ten Hag, Premier League, Christian Eriksen
