The dwindling number of optimistic Manchester United supporters could try to convince themselves that they almost secured a victory in this match. With just two minutes of regular time left, their young substitute Alejandro Garnacho scored a goal that was ultimately ruled offside. However, if that marginal offside call had gone in United’s favor, the outcome of this captivating contest would have likely been very different.
Unfortunately, the statistics for United and coach Erik ten Hag are disheartening. Their record away from home against traditional rivals is lamentable. This season alone, they have suffered defeats to Tottenham and Arsenal in north London, adding to last season’s losses against Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Newcastle. The best they achieved in Ten Hag’s first season was draws against Tottenham and Chelsea.
United is in need of significant improvement, and it was challenging to identify where that improvement will come from while watching them play at the Emirates. It is evident that every team in the Premier League needs to improve, but United has more work to do than most.
The starting lineup for United did not appear to be much better than the one that began last season’s game against Arsenal, which they lost 3-2. They have a better goalkeeper in Andre Onana, who has had a strong start. However, the defense appeared weaker than last year due to injuries, and the attacking lineup seemed predictable.
Ten Hag will hope for changes and improvements. Mason Mount and Rasmus Hojlund, both new signings, have the potential to make a positive impact once they recover from their injuries. However, the question remains whether these additions will be enough. United has not seriously competed for a Premier League title in over a decade, and last season, they finished 14 points behind champions Manchester City. This campaign demands significant progress, not small steps forward.
Despite the loss, United showed competitiveness in this match. They were in the game and even took the lead through Marcus Rashford, although it lasted for a mere minute. If they had managed to secure a 1-1 draw, a result that seemed likely for a long time, they would have done so with equal possession and clear chances. They would have deserved a point.
However, this squad still appears too thin to compete on par with stronger teams. Ten Hag seems to send them out to play a defensive strategy, hoping to secure something on the counter-attack. It can work, as demonstrated in this match. Garnacho’s offside goal was a close call.
Towards the end of the game, United’s lack of depth became apparent. With injuries to Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, they ended the contest with Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans as their center-backs. This speaks volumes about the current state of the team.
United is unlikely to have a disastrous season, and they have enough talented players to win their fair share of games, especially at home. The top four in the league should be within reach for them. However, with players like Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Diogo Dalot, Lindelof, Antony, and Anthony Martial, there are limitations to how high they can realistically aim. More than ever, football is a squad game, and United once again appears to be lacking depth.
As for Hojlund, he showed promise and pace when he came on as a substitute. However, he also faced numerous challenges and was frequently fouled. Welcome to the rough and competitive world of the Premier League.
Off the field, the Glazer family remains reluctant to sell the club, and Old Trafford continues to be clouded by stagnation.
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