After their impressive win against Rangers in their second preseason match, Manchester United embarks on the U.S. leg of their preseason tour. This tour has provided young and fringe players with a chance to showcase their abilities as they vie for places in the squad.
Manager Erik ten Hag finds himself grappling with selection dilemmas posed by these emerging talents, including players like Amad, who have been part of the first team but haven’t been regular starters. Among these prospects is Toby Collyer, a promising defensive midfielder hailed as United’s next academy standout.
Collyer has justified the hype surrounding him with strong performances, notably playing 45 minutes in consecutive games against Rangers and being entrusted with the captain’s armband in the second half against Rosenborg. His emergence addresses a significant issue from the previous campaign, adding depth and competition to Ten Hag’s squad choices.
Collyer further solidified his credentials against Rangers by playing a crucial role in United’s predominantly first-half lineup. As a defensive midfielder, he anchored the midfield with adept ball-winning abilities and provided robust defensive cover across both games. Against Rosenborg, despite facing significant pressure, Collyer remained disciplined and disrupted the opposition’s play effectively.
In contrast, during the match against Rangers where United controlled possession, Collyer demonstrated his passing proficiency by completing all 18 of his attempts and showcased his adeptness at ball recovery. His disciplined and efficient performances are already addressing United’s historical weakness in midfield transitions, a critical issue from previous seasons.
The team had often struggled with opponents effortlessly penetrating their midfield, even when key players like Casemiro, Sofyan Amrabat, or Christian Eriksen were present. Collyer’s presence now provides a solution, as he consistently maintains his position, minimizes unnecessary forward movements, and disrupts opponent counterattacks by holding his ground.
While Collyer may need to contribute more actively on the ball to secure a regular starting spot, his practical and no-nonsense approach fills a crucial gap for United. This season presents an excellent opportunity for the young midfielder to establish himself firmly within the squad.
Erik ten Hag should have ample opportunities to rotate the team during the Europa League group stage, given Manchester United’s participation, which will allow Toby Collyer numerous chances to showcase his skills. Additionally, FA Cup and early Carabao Cup matches will provide further opportunities. It’s clear that ten Hag recognizes Collyer’s potential and promise.
With potential retirements looming for players like Casemiro and Eriksen, and with Scott McTominay attracting strong interest, a midfield breakthrough seems imminent. If Manuel Ugarte joins the team, Collyer stands to benefit from a coach who shares a similar playing style. Now is Collyer’s moment to seize this opportunity and carve out a place for himself in the starting lineup.
Collyer’s disciplined and effective performances during preseason, including his leadership when given the captain’s armband against Rosenborg and his impactful role against Rangers, have earned ten Hag’s trust. His ability to secure possession, anchor the midfield, and disrupt opponents’ play underscores his potential to address United’s midfield vulnerabilities from last season.
With Scott McTominay attracting interest and uncertainties surrounding veterans like Casemiro and Eriksen, Toby Collyer’s path to the first team at United appears clearer. Opportunities in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Europa League will be crucial for him to solidify his place in the squad. His disciplined style of play and the potential guidance from a coach like Manuel Ugarte could accelerate his development.
Collyer’s emergence offers a promising solution to United’s midfield deficiencies and signals a bright future for the club’s young talents.
