Shirt Number: #5 | Date of Birth: 20 March 1990 | Place of Birth: La Plata, Argentina | Nationality: Argentinian
Player Position: Centre-back | 2014/2015: 26 apps, 1 goal
BACKGROUND
Marcos Rojo joined the Red Devils in the summer of 2014, following a £16 million move from Sporting Lisbon after impressing in Argentina’s run to the World Cup final in Brazil. Despite injuries disrupting his debut season at Old Trafford, he has put in good, consistent performances at centre-back and left-back when called upon by Louis van Gaal. In his second season at the Theatre of Dreams, Rojo will be looking to become one of the first names on van Gaal’s team sheet.
STRENGTHS
Rojo ticks many boxes when it comes to a centre back – physically strong as well as comfortable on the ball. At just over six feet tall, Rojo possesses a strong physique, scorching pace and good aerial ability. Rojo’s short and long distance distribution is accurate, and he has a wonderful left foot which he can use to good effect, with the ability to rifle off thunderous shots from range. Versatility is also an asset for Rojo, who can play at left-back and in defensive midfield if needed. Rojo is a determined character, and there can be no doubt about his commitment on the pitch.
WEAKNESSES
Appropriately for a man named Rojo (‘red’ in Spanish), he has a fiery temper. While that aggression can be helpful at times, Rojo has a tendency to launch himself into rash challenges and pick up silly bookings. That tendency to launch himself into challenges cause him to pick up injuries, most notably during the Manchester derby in November, where he dislocated his shoulder while tackling Martin Demichelis. Rojo’s positioning and concentration can be suspect at times, and he has been known to let his man get away from him in open play and in set piece situations.
EXPECTATIONS
Rojo will look to earn a first team place at Old Trafford, and banish his fitness worries to become a stalwart in Louis van Gaal’s defence. However, he faces a real battle to do so, with van Gaal looking to bring in a top-class centre back, leaving only one slot in the team for Rojo, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones to contest. It will certainly be a fascinating battle in pre-season.
