Manchester United's 2017/18 Squad: Numbers & Stars

by Jhon Lennon 51 views

Hey there, football fanatics! Ever wondered about the Manchester United squad that graced the pitch during the 2017/18 season? Well, you're in luck! We're diving deep into the players, their squad numbers, and the memorable moments from that campaign. This was a season filled with highs and lows, iconic performances, and of course, those all-important numbers on the back of the jerseys. Buckle up, because we're about to take a trip down memory lane, remembering the heroes who donned the Red Devils' shirt and the impact they made on the field. From the ever-reliable David de Gea between the sticks to the attacking prowess of Romelu Lukaku, we'll cover it all. So, grab your favorite snack, get comfy, and let's unravel the fascinating details of the Manchester United squad of 2017/18!

The Goalkeepers: Guardians of the Goal

Let's kick things off with the goalkeepers, the last line of defense, the guardians of the goal. In the 2017/18 season, Manchester United was fortunate to have some top-tier talent in this position. The undisputed number one was, of course, the incredible David de Gea. His shot-stopping abilities were legendary, and he consistently pulled off incredible saves, earning him the reputation as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. His presence was a massive boost to the team's morale, knowing they had such a reliable figure between the posts. De Gea’s number one jersey became a symbol of security and excellence for the Red Devils. The Spanish international was not only known for his spectacular saves but also for his composure under pressure, which was vital in many crucial matches. He was the backbone of the defense, often bailing the team out with his reflexes and positioning. Backing him up was Sergio Romero, who served as a very capable second choice. Romero was a reliable and experienced goalkeeper, always ready to step in when needed, and his professionalism was greatly appreciated by both the coaching staff and his teammates. The depth in the goalkeeper position provided a strong foundation for the team. Another notable player, Joel Pereira, also featured, providing young talent to the squad, further solidifying the goalkeeping unit's strength. These goalkeepers were crucial to the team's successes, providing the defense with a sense of calm and the ability to win matches.

Player Numbers Breakdown

  • David de Gea: Number 1
  • Sergio Romero: Number 20
  • Joel Pereira: Number 40

Defenders: The Fortress at the Back

Moving on to the defenders, the heart of the team's defense. The 2017/18 Manchester United squad boasted a solid defensive lineup, featuring a mix of experience and emerging talent. The center-back pairing was often anchored by Eric Bailly, a powerful and athletic defender, and Phil Jones, known for his tenacity and commitment. Chris Smalling was another regular presence, offering a calm and experienced presence at the back. These players formed a formidable trio, providing a solid barrier for the opposition attackers. On the flanks, the full-back positions were primarily filled by Antonio Valencia, who displayed his remarkable energy and work rate, and Ashley Young, who delivered consistent performances and versatility. They were not only solid defensively, but they also provided width and attacking threat. Matteo Darmian and Marcos Rojo were also reliable options, offering depth and competition in the defensive positions. The defensive unit was a crucial part of the team's success, providing the foundation upon which the attacking players could build their attacks, helping to maintain their defensive stability, ensuring that they were a difficult team to break down. The squad's defensive solidity was a key component of their overall game plan, which allowed them to compete at a high level. Their combined defensive ability made them one of the most reliable units in the league, contributing to the team's overall success in all competitions.

Player Numbers Breakdown

  • Eric Bailly: Number 3
  • Phil Jones: Number 4
  • Marcos Rojo: Number 5
  • Chris Smalling: Number 12
  • Antonio Valencia: Number 25
  • Matteo Darmian: Number 36
  • Ashley Young: Number 18

Midfielders: Controlling the Engine Room

The midfield is the engine room of any football team, and Manchester United's 2017/18 squad had a fantastic blend of creativity, work rate, and experience in this area. Paul Pogba, with his flair and vision, was a key figure, dictating the tempo of the game and creating chances. His ability to drive forward and make defence-splitting passes was essential to the team's attacking play. Nemanja Matić provided defensive stability and a strong presence in midfield, shielding the back four and breaking up opposition attacks. His experience and tactical awareness were invaluable. Marouane Fellaini, known for his aerial ability and physicality, was a valuable asset, providing a different dimension to the midfield and often causing problems for opposing defenses. He was a great impact player, capable of changing the game with his late runs into the box. Ander Herrera was another crucial member of the midfield, known for his relentless energy, tackling ability, and passing skills. He was the heartbeat of the team, always giving his all on the pitch and leading by example. Michael Carrick, the veteran midfielder, brought experience and composure to the squad. Although he played a reduced role due to injury, his presence and leadership were still vital both on and off the pitch. The midfield's blend of power, creativity, and tactical understanding allowed the team to control matches and create opportunities in the attacking third. The midfielders worked tirelessly to both defend and support the attackers, making them a crucial part of the team's overall strategy. Each player brought their own unique strengths, which gave the team balance and versatility. They played a vital role in connecting defense and attack, ensuring the team was always in a position to compete.

Player Numbers Breakdown

  • Paul Pogba: Number 6
  • Michael Carrick: Number 16
  • Ander Herrera: Number 21
  • Nemanja Matić: Number 31
  • Marouane Fellaini: Number 31

Forwards: The Attack Force

The attack is where the excitement happens, where goals are scored, and where the fans are thrilled. Manchester United's 2017/18 squad featured a star-studded attack, led by the prolific Romelu Lukaku. He was a goal-scoring machine, leading the line with power, pace, and a clinical finishing ability. His presence up front gave the team a focal point and a constant threat. Alongside him, Anthony Martial showcased his pace, trickery, and ability to score stunning goals, adding another layer of attacking threat. He provided incredible flair and dynamism in the attack. Marcus Rashford, a product of the club's academy, continued to develop, displaying his versatility and determination on the wing. His pace and direct running caused problems for defenders. Zlatan Ibrahimović also featured in the first half of the season before his departure, providing experience and a winning mentality. The forward line was well-equipped to score goals from different angles, and create opportunities. They created a good balance of pace, power, and technique, and their collective goal-scoring ability was instrumental in many victories throughout the season. The attacking unit was a vital part of the team's success, providing excitement and goals in almost every match, leading the team to many victories and creating memorable moments for fans.

Player Numbers Breakdown

  • Romelu Lukaku: Number 9
  • Anthony Martial: Number 11
  • Marcus Rashford: Number 19
  • Zlatan Ibrahimović: Number 10
  • Jesse Lingard: Number 14
  • Juan Mata: Number 8

Key Takeaways from the 2017/18 Season

The 2017/18 season was a roller coaster for Manchester United. While they didn't quite reach the heights they'd hoped for in terms of winning the Premier League title, they had some memorable moments and individual performances. They finished second in the Premier League, showcasing their ability to compete at the top level. They made it to the FA Cup final, providing the fans with the excitement of a cup run. The team displayed great resilience and determination throughout the campaign, overcoming challenges and setbacks. The squad's depth was tested, with various players stepping up and contributing at different stages. The players' dedication and teamwork were clear throughout the season. The tactical setup, spearheaded by the manager, helped maximize the team's strengths and adapt to different opponents. The squad included iconic players like De Gea, Pogba, Lukaku, and other stars who left a lasting impression on the fans. The season highlighted the importance of a strong squad with talent in all positions, and their efforts in competitions showcased their ambition and passion. The club had a positive outlook, with a promising core of players and the potential for future success.

The Managerial Influence

Throughout the 2017/18 season, the managerial influence was clear. José Mourinho, the manager at the time, brought his tactical acumen and winning mentality to the team. His approach focused on defensive solidity, counter-attacking football, and utilizing the team's strengths to their full potential. Mourinho's leadership and tactical strategies were vital in shaping the team's performances and results. His ability to motivate players and instill a winning mindset was evident. The training methods and game plans set by Mourinho were essential in preparing the team for matches. The manager's tactical decisions, including team selections and substitutions, played a major role in each match. The coaching staff and Mourinho worked together to enhance the players' abilities and create a winning environment. The manager's impact was evident in the team's ability to compete with top teams and achieve high standings in the Premier League. The fans appreciated Mourinho's commitment to the club and his efforts to bring success. He instilled a sense of belief and confidence in the squad, driving them to compete at the highest level.

Legacy and Impact

The 2017/18 Manchester United squad left a lasting legacy. The team's performances and the individual brilliance of players like David de Gea and Paul Pogba created memories that still resonate with fans. The squad numbers became synonymous with specific players, and the sight of those names on the back of the iconic red shirts brought immense joy to the supporters. The spirit and tenacity of the team, especially the defense and midfield, were particularly notable. The players' commitment to the club and the fans was evident throughout the season. The impact of the 2017/18 squad continues to be felt in terms of inspiration for current players and the development of youth academy players. The memories and achievements of the team continue to be celebrated by fans. The squad's achievements are still talked about and are considered a significant chapter in the history of Manchester United. The team had a significant impact on the footballing world.

Conclusion: A Season to Remember

So there you have it, folks! A deep dive into the Manchester United squad of the 2017/18 season. From the heroic saves of De Gea to the goal-scoring prowess of Lukaku, it was a season filled with moments that fans will never forget. Each player contributed to the team's journey, making it a campaign worth remembering. We hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane. Until next time, keep the passion for football burning! Remember the number of each player and the unforgettable games they played.