Improving Manchester United’s Set Piece Efficiency: A Key to Success
The Significance of Set Pieces in Football
Set pieces are often referred to as a “game within the game.” These static situations in football can have a significant impact on the outcome of a match, regardless of its flow. They can provide a team under pressure with a lifeline back into the game or offer unexpected goalscoring opportunities. However, executing set pieces effectively is crucial for success.
Manchester United’s Struggles with Attacking Set Pieces
After suffering a 2-0 defeat to West Ham United, Manchester United failed to score for the fourth consecutive game in all competitions. This raises concerns about their attacking prowess, particularly in set-piece situations. Despite appointing Eric Ramsay as a set-piece coach in July 2021, United has struggled to convert set-piece opportunities under the guidance of three different managers.
Poor Set Piece Performance in Recent Seasons
When analyzing United’s goals from set pieces over multiple seasons, it becomes evident that their performance has been subpar. In the disrupted 2021-22 season, they had the third-worst goals-per-100-set-pieces record in the Premier League, scoring only seven goals. Even when considering other competitions, United still ranked poorly compared to their rivals.
Under manager Erik ten Hag, United’s performance improved, leading them to a third-place finish and a Carabao Cup victory. However, their attacking set pieces remained a concern. The quality of chances created and the number of goals scored from set pieces decreased compared to the previous season.
Ongoing Set Piece Issues in the Current Season
Four months into the 2023-24 season, United’s set-piece performance continues to hinder their attacking capabilities. Their expected goals per 100 set pieces have decreased compared to the previous two seasons. With only six goals from set pieces in all competitions, United ranks in the bottom half among Premier League teams.
Premier League Set Piece Ineffectiveness
United’s struggles in attacking set pieces are particularly evident in the Premier League. Despite having more set-piece opportunities than other competitions, they have scored significantly fewer goals. Their goals per 100 set pieces in other competitions are double their Premier League rate, indicating a lack of effectiveness against stronger opposition.
A Questionable Record from Attacking Set Pieces
United’s record from attacking set pieces raises concerns, regardless of the season’s circumstances. Only a few teams have scored fewer goals or recorded worse expected goals per 100 set pieces since 2021-22. This inconsistency highlights the need for improvement.
The Importance of Set Pieces for Manchester United
Set pieces have proven to be a valuable tool for success in the Premier League. However, United’s efficiency in this aspect has been declining in recent seasons. With their lowest rate of 2.1 goals per 100 set pieces this season, it is clear that they need to capitalize on attacking set pieces to aid their road to recovery.
Considering the historical significance of set pieces for Manchester United, it is ironic that their current performance in this area is lacking. Improving their set piece efficiency could be a key factor in revitalizing their attacking prowess.