Erik ten Hag would have a wealth of options if Manchester United manage to wrap up a deal for Federico Chiesa this summer. the 26-year-old forward faces an increasingly uncertain future at Juventus, with his contract in Turin set to expire next year.
Chiesa featured 33 times for the Old Lady in the Serie A last season, scoring nine goals and providing three assists. Despite some poor results, which saw the Italian giants finish 23 points short of the champions Inter Milan, he still managed to impress.
The Italy international has been rewarded with a place in Roberto Mancini’s starting lineup at Euro 2024 as they look to defend their title. With Chiesa yet to pen an extension at Juventus, he’s been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League.
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According to the Italian publication La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus want to sign Mason Greenwood but they’re unwilling to match United’s asking price – which is said to be £42million. The report states that the Old Lady are exploring alternative options to seal a deal, which could include Chiesa heading to Old Trafford in a swap deal.
Juventus have already shown their willingness to exchange players this summer, swapping Enzo Barrenechea and Samuel Iling Jr plus cash for Douglas Luiz. So, with that being said, the Manchester Evening News has taken a look at three different ways United could line up on the opening weekend of the Premier League season with Chiesa in the side.
4-2-3-1
Ten Hag has regularly used a 4-2-3-1 since taking the reins at United. With a pragmatic defensive structure, the Red Devils could unleash one of the most dangerous attacks in the Premier League.
With Chiesa on the right, Marcus Rashford on the left, Bruno Fernandes in the number 10 role and Rasmus Hojlund leading the line, United will strike fear into any defence. Not to mention Alejandro Garnacho will be available off the bench, in addition to whoever else Sir Jim Ratcliffe brings to Old Trafford. Joshua Kimmich, anyone?
4-3-3
While there are many similarities between a 4-2-3-1 and a 4-3-3, there will be a greater emphasis on the wingers to provide Hojlund support. Whether they’re making runs in behind to stretch the opposition backline or combining with the Dane, Chiesa and Rashford will have to put in the hard yards.
The Italian also has a tremendous work rate, which will be just what Ten Hag needs – especially if United want to maintain a high intensity across the span of a season, which will likely includes a cup run or two.
4-4-2
Towards the end of the 2023/24 campaign, Ten Hag used a narrow 4-4-2. This proved particularly effective in transition, regularly catching the opposition on the counter-attack.
If the Dutchman really wants to throw the kitchen sink at a team then lead with Rashford and Hojlund, while Chiesa and Garnacho take up wide positions. Then, in the heart of midfield, Bruno Fernandes can partner Kobbie Mainoo.
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