Since the arrival of Carlo Ancelotti last December, Everton have been performing exceptionally well. They secured five wins in their last ten matches across all competitions; only lost to the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal. In the Premier League, the Toffees are making good progress. Before Don Carlo came to Goodison Park, they were only four points above the relegation zone. Credit to the Italian, Everton now are only seven points below Chelsea, who are in the fourth Champions League spot.
Manchester United have also been in good form. In their last seven matches in all competitions, the Red Devils went undefeated and won five games total. Due to their positive results, expectations were high coming to this match. Fortunately, the match went out as dramatic as expected. Without further ado, this tactical analysis will inform you how the match unfolded.
Lineups
Ancelotti opted his regular 4–4–2 for Everton. The duo of Michael Keane and Mason Holgate started as the centre-back pairing in front of Jordan Pickford. In the engine room, Tom Davies and André Gomes served as the double pivot for the home side. Upfront, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison spearheaded Everton’s attack. The dugout was filled with names like Djibril Sidibé, Bernard, and Moise Kean.
Oppositely, Ole Gunnar Solskjær chose 4–3–1–2; which can also be seen as 4–4–2 diamond. Nemanja Matić started as the lone defensive midfielder, supported by Scott McTominay and Fred alongside him. New recruit Bruno Fernandes started at the tip of the diamond; providing support for Mason Greenwood and Anthony Martial up top. Names like Juan Mata, Odion Ighalo, and Brandon Williams were among the substitutes.
