Wes Brown has given his advice on how to stop Erling Haaland ahead of Manchester United’s derby against Manchester City.
The match, which takes place on Sunday, will be a major test for Erik ten Hag’s side as they look to continue United’s fine form after a nightmarish start to the season.
The Red Devils can achieve five wins in a row in the Premier League, but they will need to overcome fierce opposition to make that vision a reality.
Ten Hag’s main concern will be preventing Haaland from adding to his remarkable tally of eleven goals in seven games this season.
Speaking to 888sport (quotes via Manchester Evening News), Wes Brown had this to say:
“He’s fast and strong and we’ve seen what he’s been doing with defenders. He is good in the air and always seems to be in the right position. So you just have to be on it.
“Maybe forget about this player and focus on Haaland, be stricter with him, but that’s difficult with City because they have so many good players.
“But anyone who guards Haaland needs help when he’s making those runs. Can you see it before it happens and cut it out?
With the wealth of attacking talent available to the Sky Blues, United’s game plan cannot afford to focus too much on the Norwegian goalscorer.
Wes Brown’s suggestion that United defenders should “close in” on Haaland may seem a bit strange to observers, as Haaland’s speed and strength usually see him take down anyone who gets too close.
Brown was a fantastic man-marker in his pomp, often pocketing Premier League great Thierry Henry in clashes with Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal.
But for a player of Haaland’s profile, Brown’s advice to reduce runs seems much more appropriate.
Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez have made a fantastic pairing earlier this season, but their communication and organization will be tested to the limit here as they look to limit Haaland’s space.
Stopping crosses from the likes of Joao Cancelo and Kevin de Bruyne will also be crucial.
A good point of reference could perhaps be found in Borussia Dortmund’s approach in their group stage tie against City.
For most of the match, an organized low block denied Haaland a whiff, with Niklas Sule and Mats Hummels working well together to restrain the striker.
Unfortunately, the plan went out the window after Dortmund made a late switch to a three-man defense, which seemed to disrupt the Bundesliga team’s organisation.
Manchester United will need to avoid such lapses on Sunday. 
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