Having a £59.7m price-tag must really weigh you down. Fortunately, Angel Di Maria looks good enough to justify the amount that Manchester United spent on him.
Since moving to Manchester United from Real Madrid he’s made 14 appearances for his new side. In the process he’s managed to find the back of the net 4 times. He’s also managed to impress with his generous build-up play and direct attacking nature.
Still, there are some nagging doubts about the player. He’s been part of teams who have been out-classed by lesser competition this season. He has a tendency to drift in and out of games and when Manchester United aren’t at the races, he can be a frustrating player to watch.
His team-mate, Michael Carrick, on the other hand, has chosen to focus solely on the postive aspects of his character. Check out his comments here:
“There are players who have got tricks and can drop the shoulder to go past players, but he is so direct in his play. It is almost like Giggsy used to be in many ways.”
“When he picks that ball up he can carry it and change direction pretty quickly, so it is very tough to defend against – especially if he is doing through the middle of the park. You get wide players who do it, but you don’t see many players dribble through the middle of the pitch.” (Source: The Express)
The Giggs comparisons are interesting, but Di Maria will never earn similar levels of adoration unless he starts performing week-in and week-out. He needs to learn how to take games by the scruff of the neck and drive a result.
Just look at Alexis Sanchez over at Arsenal. Whether his team are playing well or not, he always manages to find a way to leave his mark on the game. With his outrageous work-rate and ability both on and off the ball, he’s proven to be a great signing.
For all Michael Carrick’s nice words, Angel Di Maria isn’t quite there yet. Still, once he’s fully settled in, I can’t wait to see what he’s capable of.
What’s your take? How big an impact is Angel Di Maria going to have over the coming years for Manchester United?
Please follow @ThePerfectPass for more football related action!
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.