Manchester United Edge Leicester City in a Scrappy Community Shield Clash
The 2016 FA Community Shield delivered a hard-fought victory for Manchester United, who overcame Premier League champions Leicester City with a 2-1 win at Wembley. While not a classic in terms of quality, the match set the tone for the new season and showcased the ability of José Mourinho’s side to grind out results, even without playing their best football. Despite flashes of talent, both teams underperformed for stretches of the game, leaving the result more a testament to resilience than flair.
Mourinho’s Approach and Management Controversy
José Mourinho’s arrival at Manchester United brought heightened expectations and scrutiny. Known for his confidence—or, as some critics argue, arrogance—Mourinho’s tactical decisions on the day were hotly debated. Notably, marquee signing Henrikh Mkhitaryan, the Bundesliga’s standout performer from the previous season, was kept on the bench until the closing minutes. This mirrored Mourinho’s handling of creative talents in previous roles, drawing comparisons to his treatment of Kevin De Bruyne at Chelsea. Fans and analysts alike expressed concern that such a strategy could risk alienating key players and disrupting team unity, much like what unfolded towards the end of his tenure at Chelsea. Meanwhile, Juan Mata also experienced a puzzling cameo, being substituted on in the 63rd minute and then taken off again late in the contest. These choices raised questions about man-management and their long-term impact on team morale and cohesion.
Key Takeaways from the Match
The encounter provided several insights into the evolving dynamics of both Manchester United and Leicester City as they prepared for the new campaign.
Eric Bailly Delivers an Impressive Defensive Display
One of the undeniable bright spots for Manchester United was Eric Bailly’s performance at centre-back. Displaying composure under pressure, physical strength, and aerial dominance, the new signing justified the club’s investment in him. Although Bailly conceded three unnecessary fouls—a symptom of both his aggressive style and inexperience—his overall contribution was significant in controlling Leicester’s attacking threat, particularly in containing Jamie Vardy. The Foxes’ striker managed to escape Bailly’s attention only twice: once leading to a dangerous shot, which Bailly recovered to clear, and the other during a defensive lapse by Marouane Fellaini which resulted in Leicester’s goal.
Leicester City Face Challenges Without Key Stars
Leicester’s performance highlighted the void left by N’Golo Kanté, whose transfer to Chelsea deprived the Foxes of midfield composure and defensive stability. This absence was underlined when Jesse Lingard weaved through multiple Leicester defenders to open the scoring for United. Although Vardy and Danny Drinkwater showed their quality, Riyad Mahrez found it difficult to influence proceedings, and Danny Simpson’s defensive struggles—culminating in a needless yellow card—exposed vulnerabilities at the back. With an expanded fixture list due to European competitions, Leicester may find it difficult to replicate last season’s remarkable consistency.
Manchester United Emphasize Defensive Solidity Under Mourinho
Mourinho wasted no time implementing his defensive philosophy, prioritizing organization and discipline. United’s backline looked composed throughout, successfully restricting Leicester’s key attackers. Luke Shaw’s return from injury was a promising sign, while Antonio Valencia’s energetic runs down the right flank provided valuable support, including the assist for Zlatan Ibrahimović’s decisive header. In midfield, Michael Carrick adopted a deeper role, rarely venturing forward, and Marouane Fellaini was tasked primarily with protecting the defense—evidence of Mourinho’s emphasis on solidity over attacking risk at this early stage.
Ibrahimović and Rooney Partnership Still Needs Refinement
The much-anticipated combination of Zlatan Ibrahimović and Wayne Rooney is still in its formative stages. On this occasion, their lack of understanding led to a disjointed attacking display, with both men struggling to click as a creative tandem. Many observers believe that the inclusion of either Mkhitaryan or Mata behind Ibrahimović could unlock more attacking potential. Nevertheless, Ibrahimović showcased his trademark instinct by heading home the late winner from a Valencia cross, hinting at his potential impact this season.
Concluding Thoughts
While Manchester United were far from their fluent best, they nonetheless started the new season with silverware—an outcome Mourinho and Ibrahimović will undoubtedly embrace as the beginning of a new era at Old Trafford. Leicester’s spirited showing, spearheaded by Vardy’s clinical finish, served as a reminder of their quality, but their frailties without Kanté and increased workload look set to test their mettle in the coming months. Ultimately, this Community Shield clash foreshadowed a season in which United’s defensive organization could prove the cornerstone of their ambitions, while Leicester face the daunting task of adjusting to life at the summit.
For further in-depth analysis and Premier League coverage, explore more featured articles on English football.
