Everyone focused on De Bruyne when Wolfsburg had their great season, finishing just behind Bayern and winning the German cup. So since he left for the big cheddar at City, everyone has assumed that Wolfburg would decline. Those that say so, never really watched Wolfsburg.
De Bruyne may have been Wolfsburg's most effective player, but the best footballer on their team is without doubt, Vieirinha. A very skillful footballer who plays a major role in how Wolfburg attack which is down the wing. The way in which he brings the ball forward and his bravery with which he drives into the heart of the enemy's defense, and can shoot made Wolfsburg a three-dimensional team.
The we have his partner in crime Caliguri, who plays on the same flank but as the winger. He is not as giftedwith his feet as Vieirinha, but is capable of both scoring and providing. He was also important to Wolfsburg's success because of how Hecking is so focused on using both wings in how the team attacks.
Not the most graceful on the ball, but he is effective and does his job as a winger well, which is the least that any manager can ask for. Between the two of them, they can put this match to bed and possibly send United packing.
Hecking will know that United's strongest defender is Smalling, who plays in the center, whereas the other defenders are pretty good but not great. So what I think he may want to do is try and get Caliguiri and Vieirinha constantly putting pressure on United's full back. So a combination of overlapping runs, one-twos, and Vieirinha pushing right up to cut inside and bring in Kruse or Marshall Mathers aka Bendtner into the game. Wolfsburg can be pretty brave in this match because there isn't really a counter-attacking threat from United. Martial being the quickest in the attack is not enough for Wolfsburg to fear much, and with Naldo, they have good assurance in foiling any quick attacks.
I'm still sticking with a draw in this game, but that's all down to Wolfsburg. If they play a more balanced game and don't force the issue, then that will be the result. But if Vieirinha is urged to move forward and encouraged to shoot on sight or smack crosses in along with Caliguri to put United under pressure, then this game should swing in favor of Wolfsburg.
Comment below in the Disqus section using your Facebook or Twitter Account.
HH
