Patrice Evra believes Manchester United have made good progress in the transfer window, but he doesn’t think the squad is ready to challenge for the Premier League title just yet.
United have already brought in Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, and Evra is pleased with both additions. However, the former United defender still sees three areas that need attention before Michael Carrick’s side can seriously compete for the biggest trophies.
For Evra, the biggest issue is in midfield.
Patrice Evra wants another midfielder and striker
Patrice Evra believes Manchester United need a player who can take some of the creative burden away from Bruno Fernandes and allow the captain to spend more time in attacking areas.
“I’m really happy with the transfer window with Tielemans and Santos. We lost Casemiro, and it would be difficult to replace him. But I think with these two players, we have got something we can fix,” Patrice Evra said.
He also wants to see more opportunities for Kobbie Mainoo this season.
“Kobbie Mainoo, I hope he’s going to have more time to play. But anyway, Carrick, I love him. I just think United have brought some more hope.”
That hope isn’t enough for Patrice Evra to believe United can win the title, though.
“To win the title? No, we need more than that.”
The former United player would have liked to see the club bring in a major striker, with Victor Osimhen his preferred choice.
“I wish and I still don’t understand why we didn’t sign a striker like Victor Osimhen. You know, he’s just crazy and I don’t want him to end up in Madrid or Arsenal or whatsoever. So we need a big striker.”
Left-back is another concern.
“We still need a left back because Luke Shaw has a lot of injuries, maybe to support him because now Dorgu can play left back, but as a winger, I think he’s more efficient.”
Evra then returned to the midfield issue. However, Manchester United have reportedly signed Carlos Baleba from Brighton.
“It’s more in the midfield to make sure Bruno will be free to focus more on the attacking side. And midfield, I think that’s the problem. Midfield.”
Patrice Evra backs Manchester United to finish third
Despite wanting further additions, Evra still expects United to have a strong season.
He has predicted Arsenal to retain the Premier League title, with Manchester City finishing second and United third. Chelsea and Tottenham complete his top five.
Evra sees Arsenal as the most complete side, although he admits their title win could change their motivation.
“I won it three times in a row with United, but it’s because our motivation was always on point. So if they still got it, I don’t see why Arsenal don’t win.”
He also expects Chelsea to challenge and believes Manchester City shouldn’t be underestimated.
“Chelsea will surprise people. I think Chelsea will be a challenger.”
Evra’s inclusion of Tottenham is perhaps the most surprising part of his prediction. He remains a believer in Roberto De Zerbi despite Spurs’ difficult spell last season.
“My top five is Arsenal, City, United. Chelsea and Tottenham. It will surprise you but I believe in De Zerbi.”
Patrice Evra likes what the club have done so far, but he wants more. A midfielder, a left-back and a proven striker could be the difference between having a competitive squad and having one capable of challenging for the title.
