Solskjaer stabilises Red Devils: United’s game management stifles Roma’s comeback threat – tactical analysis

Despite the first leg of this Europa League semi-final being dominated by Manchester United in an emphatic 6-2 victory over Roma, the Italians still put up a fight in the second leg to produce an enthralling tie. While both sides have enjoyed differing fortunes in their respective league campaigns in the Premier League and Serie A, the Europa League remained as the only chance of silverware for either club and it is now one step closer to being in the hands of Manchester United. This tactical analysis will provide an insight into how Roma approached the game with a sense of fearlessness due to the harrowing aggregate score going into the second leg – they ultimately had nothing to lose. We will also look at how Manchester United responded with goals of their own, and how they looked to stifle any hope of a Rome comeback.

Lineups

Hosts Roma deployed a 4-1-4-1 system, with the hope of finding a productive balance between controlling the midfield danger from United and posing a threat going forward themselves. Experienced striker Edin Džeko led the line, with wide support coming from Pedro and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. Centrally, Bryan Cristante partnered Lorenzo Pellegrini in the more advanced midfield roles, with Gianluca Mancini sitting as the anchor. Former United defender Chris Smalling lined up alongside Ibañez in the heart of the defence.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer set his side up in the shape of a 4-2-3-1, with Edinson Cavani playing as the lone striker. Mason Greenwood, Donny van de Beek and Bruno Fernandes operated as the advanced midfield unit, with the first two taking occupation on the flanks from time to time. Defensive support in midfield was provided by Paul Pogba, who also had to licence to contribute in attack, and Fred. Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka were at full-backs with Harry Maguire and Eric Bailly in the middle of defence.