Manchester United's Striker Dilemma: Berbatov Or Chicharito?

The signing of Javier Hernandez, the young Mexican international, has created a bit of a buzz among Manchester United fans. Unlike the “noisy neighbors,” United have had a relatively quiet pre-season. In fact, some of the biggest discussions have been what has not taken place at Old Trafford.

Anderson's scare in Portugal, rumored interest in Werder Bremen midfielder Mesut Özil, and speculative talk about other transfers are a large part of the talk amongst United fans. Chicharito came into full view last week and impressed, giving the Red Devils another young talent to look forward to.

However, one question that recently surfaced in my mind is how the strikers will coexist.

The much-maligned Dimitar Berbatov was less than impressive on the North American pre-season tour. Wayne Rooney has been on his post-World Cup vacation and only returned to training, and partying, last week. Chicharito and Federico Macheda stood out in the pre-season matches, scoring some entertaining goals.

Despite a lecture from Sir Alex about his off-pitch antics, Wayne Rooney's starting spot is surely secure; so it seems there will be a bit of a battle for the other striker position.

Berbatov seems to be the favorite to win the position by default, but Chicharito is the fans’ choice for the job.

With two viable options for one spot, let’s take a closer look.

Dimitar Berbatov

The Bulgarian striker, who cost nearly 31 million pounds, has played for United for two seasons; this will be the third for the 29-year old. He’s scored 26 goals in all competitions since joining United and has been widely criticized for his seemingly casual style of play.

While his skills are evident, the goal scoring prowess he displayed for Tottenham Hotspur has disappeared for long stretches of time. Never was that more evident than this past season when Wayne Rooney couldn’t play due to injury.

Berbatov struggled in front of goal, failing to score in several games including a crucial late-season game against Blackburn Rovers, a scoreless tie that eventually came back to bite United in the rear.

That game aside, Berbatov has been less than advertised his entire United career and has done little to endear himself to the Old Trafford faithful.

Chicharito’s signing signals one of two things: the end of Berbatov’s time as a Red Devil or a season of resurrection for the Bulgarian.

Either way, he’s up for consideration by virtue of his experience and track record. Putting him on the shelf immediately would be a knee-jerk reaction and damage Berbatov’s psyche, without a doubt.

Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez

The new boy in Manchester. The red half of Manchester, that is. United quietly conducted the deal back in the spring for around 6 million pounds, saving the club from spending millions more and a drawn-out transfer battle with other top clubs.

He’s young, energetic, and he’s got many Red Devils fans excited about his potential. Most got their first glimpse of him at the World Cup. A wonderful display of timing and composure against France and a calculated move and finish versus Argentina have placed him in the good graces of many a United fan.

Sir Alex Ferguson recently said Chicharito has a bright future with the club, even likening him to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, he of 1999 Champions League Final glory.

His performance for former club Chivas Guadalajara was impressive, scoring ten goals in 11 games before the Mexican Primera season paused for the World Cup. Hernandez tallied 29 times in 79 games for the Mexican outfit, in total.

That said, Hernandez will be pitted against physically imposing defenders in the Premier League, the likes of which he probably has not seen before.

So with all his skills and gifts, his pace and intelligence will have to carry him until his strength develops.

That leaves a bit of a dilemma for Manchester United. Who partners with Wayne Rooney?

Chicharito doesn’t seem ready just yet, but Berbatov is an unpopular, inconsistent alternative.

So, could they all three strikers play at the same time?

Sir Alex Ferguson has suggested a 4-3-3 for European encounters, but it appears unlikely the formation would be used on a regular basis. Not a likely option for the Premier League.

OK, perhaps a 4-4-2 like last season. What’s a manager to do?

Does Fergie play the older option, Dimitar Berbatov, who many fans dislike and who has failed to deliver in front of goal on several previous occasions?

Or does he start Chicharito; the young, unproven talent whose skill set seems to complement Rooney’s?

Personally, I like Berbatov until Hernandez gets his feet underneath him. Let the young guy get a taste of the game before he’s fully thrown into the fray. Once he proves himself, then it will be time for Chicharito.

What's your take on the situation? Chicharito or Berbatov?