7 line-breaking passes: Man Utd man ‘quickly becoming key’ for Carrick as his starting spot becomes threatened

Despite ultimately being on the losing end, Youri Tielemans was praised for his efforts in Sunday’s Manchester derby.

The midfielder started and played 66 minutes before being replaced by Benjamin Sesko, with Manchester United trailing 1-0 at the time of his departure.

How Youri Tielemans fared vs Manchester City

Throughout the first half, Tielemans covered more distance (6.2k) and made more line-breaking passes (seven) than any of his teammates, with StatmanDave adding that the Belgian is ‘quickly becoming a key player’ for the club.

He arrived from Aston Villa back in July for £35 million after his release clause was activated, which was a smart bit of business from INEOS.

Then, when they proceeded to shell out £65m to bring in Carlos Baleba and complete the midfield rebuild, it was claimed by one Manchester Evening News journalist that Baleba would likely be the one to partner Kobbie Mainoo in most matches.

Andrey Santos and Tielemans would therefore be the rotational options, despite the latter boasting the most Premier League experience of any summer signing.

Will Tielemans retain his place when Baleba is available?

Baleba is still awaiting his maiden outing in red due to a knee ligament injury he suffered in pre-season.

It isn’t expected to be a long-term setback, hence United agreeing the deal while knowing he would be unavailable for the first weeks of the term.

Alas, it remains to be seen which duo Michael Carrick will opt to deploy week in and week out when all four players are fit and available.

Manuel Ugarte is also on the mend following his serious setback at the World Cup over the summer, although he will remain sidelined for the foreseeable future.

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