Manchester United have started focusing on long throw-ins under set-piece specialist Carlos Fernandes, but to truly make the tactic effective, they may need a player capable of delivering precise throws into the box.

Ruben Amorim wasn’t the only new coach at Old Trafford to face early challenges following his arrival in November.

While the head coach has taken much of the spotlight, his assistant, Carlos Fernandes, also experienced intense scrutiny.

Amorim assigned Fernandes the responsibility for set-pieces, continuing a long-standing collaboration that began when they worked together at Casa Pia.

However, when United started conceding goals from corners and free-kicks, Fernandes faced criticism, especially after taking over set-piece duties from Andreas Georgson.

Early Pressure on Fernandes

After a 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford in December, where United were once again exposed at set-pieces, Amorim had to step in to defend his 30-year-old assistant.

“The responsibility of everything is me, is not Carlos, it’s on me,” Amorim said. “We are a team, we are a team in good moments and bad moments.

“We have a way of doing things, we are working on that and we are going to improve on that also but we didn’t lose because of set pieces.”

At the time, Fernandes was under significant pressure. Whenever United had an attacking or defensive set-piece, he would step into the technical area, ensuring the team was properly positioned.

United’s Improvement at Set-Pieces

Just as Amorim has seen the pressure ease in recent weeks, so has Fernandes. United have tightened up defensively from set-pieces and started to pose a greater attacking threat.

Their victory over Ipswich was decided entirely by set-pieces, while their FA Cup win against Leicester City also came from a well-worked free-kick.

This improvement has allowed Fernandes to expand United’s tactical approach. While free-kick and corner routines remain fairly standard, it is now evident that throw-ins are becoming a major focus in training.

Fernandes has been actively stepping into the technical area whenever United have an attacking throw-in.

Although United are not yet using long throws at every opportunity, they have been developing the tactic.

When the signal is given, Diogo Dalot takes possession of the ball and prepares for a long throw, while central defenders move forward as the primary aerial threats.

This approach makes sense when fielding three central defenders, especially with dominant aerial players like Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt, and Leny Yoro.

While it has yet to result in a goal, it is clear that United are willing to use a more direct approach a rarity among clubs in the Premier League’s traditional ‘big six’.

Most technically inclined teams prefer to keep the ball on the ground. When Liverpool employed Thomas Gronnemark as a throw-in coach, the emphasis was on creating space and switching play rather than launching the ball into the box.

The Need for a Specialist Long-Throw Player

Fernandes, however, appears eager for United to become more direct and dangerous from throw-ins.

One area that needs improvement is the quality of the delivery. While Dalot is developing his ability to throw the ball longer distances, he is still new to the skill.

United currently lack a player capable of consistently delivering deep throws into the six-yard box the key factor in making long throws a genuine attacking threat.

This raises the question of whether long throw-ins could become a consideration in United’s summer transfer plans.

While they won’t sign a player solely for their ability to take throw-ins, Amorim is expected to target a new wing-back, and it could be an added bonus if the player has experience with long throws.

If they do, don’t be surprised to see United incorporate this tactic into their attacking play for the 2025/26 season.

Aston Villa are interested in signing Villarreal winger Álex Baena during the upcoming summer transfer window.

The 23-year-old has been in impressive form this season, registering six goals and seven assists in 25 appearances.

His performances have long attracted the attention of Atlético Madrid, but they now face serious competition from Aston Villa.

According to journalist Rubén Uría, as reported by Estadio Deportivo, Atlético Madrid are “fighting hard” to secure Baena’s signature. His camp is aware of their interest, and they welcome the Spanish club’s pursuit.

However, Atlético cannot afford to relax in their transfer efforts, as Aston Villa are prepared to provide “tough competition” for his signature.

Unai Emery, who worked with Baena during his time at Villarreal, is eager to bring the Spain international to Villa Park.

Villa’s sporting director Monchi also shares this interest, making the Premier League club a serious contender.

Villa’s financial strength could pose a major concern for Diego Simeone’s side, giving them an advantage in negotiations.

Villarreal’s Asking Price

Baena is currently under contract until 2028, and his deal includes a €60 million release clause. With his strong performances this season, Villarreal may insist on this full amount before agreeing to a sale.

With both Atlético Madrid and Aston Villa in the race, Baena’s future is set to be one of the most intriguing transfer stories of the summer.

Southampton defender Jan Bednarek has suffered an injury scare, adding to concerns over Taylor Harwood-Bellis, after a collision while representing Poland.

International Break Woes for Southampton

Typically, the international break can be a frustrating time for club football fans. Unless major tournaments are underway, international fixtures rarely bring much excitement.

However, given the way Southampton’s domestic season has unfolded, fans may have welcomed the brief break from the pressures of club football. A chance to relax and take a step back from the Saints’ intense campaign or so they thought.

Instead, the break has only added to Ivan Jurić’s concerns. Just as news of Harwood-Bellis’s injury had shaken Southampton supporters, a fresh worry has now emerged regarding his defensive partner.

Bednarek Injured While Playing for Poland

According to TVP Sport, Bednarek was forced off during Poland’s match against Malta after suffering a collision that resulted in bleeding.

Initially, there was hope that he could return for the second half, but that did not happen, and he was ruled out for the remainder of the match.

Providing an update after the game, Poland head coach Michał Probierz said:

“Bednarek was still bleeding from the nose after the hit with the opponent. We decided that there was no point in him playing, but the whole thing is not serious.”

As is standard procedure, Southampton’s medical staff will conduct their own assessment to determine the extent of Bednarek’s injury.

While Probierz’s reassurance offers some optimism, the club will want to verify his condition before making any conclusions.

Thankfully, the injury does not appear to be serious, and his substitution was likely a precautionary measure rather than an indication of a long-term issue.

Southampton fans will now wait for further updates as the club evaluates Bednarek’s fitness.