Daley Blind's Direct Passing brings Cutting Edge back to Manchester United

Daley Blind made his Manchester United debut last week against Queens Park Rangers.  He started at the defensive midfield role, a position Manchester United lacked Paul Scholes retired back in 2013.  Blind is has also benefited from playing in the Dutch National Team under Louis Van Gaal.

The key to Daley Blind being a great contributor for Manchester United is his short passing.  Louis Van Gaal sets up the 442 diamond, encouraging the central midfielders to squeeze up the wing.  This allows Daley Blind to form a back 3 with Tyler Blackett and Jonny Evans.  In this position, Blind would be able to pick a pass for any player on the pitch. With these short passes, the defender is forced to react, and when it's sped up, the defence will struggle to react and the team will just slice and dice through the team.



Daley Blind is the pilot of this Manchester United team, he sets the tone and controls the tempo on United's attack, He is the one who needs to provide constant support of the defence and the midfield.  He is the ultimate glue player for this Manchester United squad.

Daley Blind is so effective in what he does because he always stays within him comfort zone.  He would never pick out an ambitious pass that might put the team's defensive position in jeopardy.  Now, there is a fine line between staying in your comfort zone and be stared and not passing the ball forward.  Daley Blind has faith in his own ability to be able to execute the one simple passes and keep the team on the front foot.



Daley Blind's crisp passes also make his presence on the pitch illusive.  Defenders will find a hard time keeping up with Blind, as he is constantly on the move.   His impact to the team is one pass away with Angel Di Maria and Ander Herrera sitting in the central midfield position.  Rhythm and pace had been Manchester United's trademark over the years, Daley Blind without a doubt would bring such quality to the team.

With Blind and Mata occupying a more holding role, it would release Di Maria and Herrera to make their runs and put pressure on opposing full backs.   With opposing defences on their heels, it is likely centre back would also move over and help.  This leave a big hole in the middle for Van Persie and Rooney to run into.  Juan Mata could also interchange with Rooney and find the back of the net.  Mata have scored 8 goals in 19 appearances since joining Manchester United in January 2013.