Edinson Cavani declared himself unavailable for Manchester United's Premier League game with Southampton this morning after undergoing treatment on a groin injury.
Ralf Rangnick can use Cristiano Ronaldo to unlock three new Manchester United tactics
25.01.2022 - 09:55 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Ralf Rangnick may have unlocked a new dimension to Cristiano Ronaldo's game in the twilight of the forward's career.
Turning 37 next month, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner has faced criticism since his return to the Premier League, with question marks over his impact on the squad and his tactical flexibility.
Ronaldo again struggled to assert himself up front during a turgid display against West Ham, before Marcus Rashford netted deep into injury time to claim a crucial win over a top-four rival.
Rashford's late winner saw all three substitutes - Rashford, Edinson Cavani and Anthony Martial - combine to send the Reds into the top four.
Whilst there was euphoria following the win, a West Ham analyst bemoaned: "Ronaldo in that pocket is killing us again" and it could prove a tactical masterstroke from Rangnick.
Here’s a look at three options that could now be opened up to Ralf Rangnick playing Ronaldo in a new role in different scenarios.
Wayne Rooney took on a deeper role as his career headed towards a conclusion at Old Trafford and the same could be in store for Ronaldo.
The West Ham win saw Ronaldo set up Martial, who threaded in Cavani, who slid to Rashford to find the back of the net.
Ronaldo's deeper position created space for the other three attackers to infiltrate. Although Ronaldo likes to be a goalscorer in the six-yard box, his drop back could see him involved in the game without chasing the play.
As opposed to his 4-2-2-2 set-up, Rangnick instead opts for a 4-2-3-1 with Ronaldo allowing for the wide forward to join a front three or act as wide playmakers.
Since returning to fitness under Rangnick, Cavani has played alongside Ronaldo in the front two to mixed results.
Ronaldo could be deployed in a more
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Rangnick's magic touch
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