Most Underrated Manchester United Players This Season

Manchester United are currently experiencing a brilliant season under Erik Ten Hag. While fans cannot stop talking about the likes of Casemiro, Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes, we’d like to take a look at United’s unsung heroes this season.

The Red Devils have had plenty of unsung heroes in their recent history – the likes of Michael Carrick, Nicky Butt and Gary Pallister spring to mind.

But who are the most underrated players currently within Manchester United’s ranks? Let’s take a look – do you agree with who we’ve chosen?

Tyrell Malacia

Left-back Tyrell Malacia has struggled for game time this season due to the impressive form of Luke Shaw – when called upon, however, he’s proven himself to be a very reliable backup option.

Primarily a defensive full-back, his natural instincts to stop players from beating him in one-on-one situations are top-class. He is somewhat reminiscent of former Manchester City full-back Pablo Zabaleta – while not the most imposing of players, he is a dogged and battling defender.

While he usually finds himself in the left-back position, Malacia can also play as a right-back and a centre-back. He’s a very useful player to have, given his versatility across the back line.

Anthony Elanga

With the emergence of Alejandro Garnacho, who has taken the Premier League by storm, United fans seem to have forgotten about the other supremely talented young winger at their club – Anthony Elanga.

While not as impressive as Garnacho, Elanga is nonetheless a very exciting starboy to keep your eyes on. The sensational Swede hasn’t scored a goal this season, but he has managed to notch up two assists across all competitions.

While primarily deployed on the left wing, Elanga can also function on the right wing and as a striker.

Diogo Dalot

2022/23 has been a breakout season for Diogo Dalot. An attacking full-back by trade, his defensive ability -previously a major weakness – has improved massively this season.

He’s been Manchester United’s first-choice right-back this year, taking that honour from Aaron Wan-Bissaka. So far, he’s notched up three assists and scored one goal in all competitions.

While he can often struggle against world-class wingers, Ten Hag is aware of this. In games where United are expected to be on the back foot, he will either make sure Dalot has sufficient defensive coverage, or play Wan-Bissaka instead.

Fred

Fred often comes under fire for his mistakes and missteps from the middle of the park – which is a real shame, because he’s been a fantastic contributor to the team this season.

A tireless midfielder, Fred is prone to the occasional lapse in concentration – however, his indomitable work ethic more than makes up for his errors.

Fred has scored in every competition that United have played in so far this season – under Erik Ten Hag, the Brazilian is finally thriving at Old Trafford. He was excellent in the League Cup final against Newcastle United, deservedly earning plaudits for his performance.