The good news for Manchester United is the early evidence suggests they have an identity again. A progressive style was one of the guarantees of appointing Erik ten Hag and treating matchgoers to watchable football will keep them onside and buy time.
The bad news for United is their squad is weaker than it was this time last year. Their central midfield lacks quality and presence and the depth in attack is so poor it is one injury away from collapsing.
Three signings and two priority positions unfilled in early August with the largest expenditure on a centre-back; it all feels very 2019, the last time United were reeling from finishing sixth and a new manager was getting his feet under the table.
