Crystal Palace delivered a decisive blow to Manchester United with a 2-0 victory at Old Trafford, pushing the Eagles above the Red Devils in the Premier League standings. Jean-Philippe Mateta was the star of the match, scoring both goals for Crystal Palace and demonstrating his prowess on the field. The defeat marks a troubling pattern for Manchester United, who have now lost seven of their first thirteen league home matches this season, equaling their record from the 1893-94 campaign.
Manchester United's struggles continue, with their failure to score in the first half of 18 different Premier League matches this season. This defeat also highlights their defensive frailties, as they have lost 13 home matches since the beginning of last season, more than any other team in the league. Lisandro Martinez's knee injury added to their woes, leaving a significant gap in their defense.
Crystal Palace's victory at Old Trafford is part of a successful streak, having won four of their last six away matches against Manchester United. This win marks only the second time they have secured back-to-back victories at this iconic venue in the Premier League era. Manager Oliver Glasner praised Mateta's performance, emphasizing the importance of his second goal as a reflection of the team's philosophy.
"The result was really bad but the performance wasn't as bad as the last games – we controlled the game. We controlled their transitions quite well although you know they'll have some situations. We suffered two goals that we can avoid. We played better than in some games but we taste nothing good." – Ruben Amorim
Ruben Amorim, Manchester United's head coach, expressed his disappointment with the result but noted some improvement in the team's performance. He highlighted Kobbie Mainoo's role as a striker and the difficulties faced due to injuries and a lack of scoring connections.
"We have had games without connections and difficult to transfer the ball in the final third. We did that today, created chances. Kobbie gave us connections and they found it hard to find the player to press. The idea worked in that moment but when you don't win the game you can't have any taste of good things – we will have that tomorrow." – Ruben Amorim
Jean-Philippe Mateta's rise under Oliver Glasner has been remarkable, with his two goals at Old Trafford bringing his tally to 23 since February 23 of last year. This achievement places him amongst elite company such as Alexander Isak, Mohamed Salah, Cole Palmer, and Erling Haaland.
"His rise under Oliver Glasner has been phenomenal. Manchester United can only wish of having a striker possessing such power, athleticism and ruthless goalscoring ability." – Ruben Amorim
"Mateta's two goals at Old Trafford took his tally since February 23 of last year to 23 goals. Only Alexander Isak, Mohamed Salah, Cole Palmer and Erling Haaland have scored more. He is amongst that company now." – Ruben Amorim
Crystal Palace's manager Oliver Glasner expressed satisfaction with Mateta's contributions, emphasizing his importance to the team's attacking strategy.
"It's him, it's JP. The first goal was after a set play and he is where he has to be as a number nine. He makes so many runs where he doesn't get the ball. We demand and encourage him. Everything he is doing, he is doing it and of course we are delighted with his form." – Ruben Amorim
Manchester United faces mounting challenges as they contend with injuries and their inability to convert opportunities into goals. Ruben Amorim acknowledged these issues, indicating that reinforcements might be necessary to bolster the squad.
"One more day to go and let's see what happens but I think we will have at least one more signing. We need one. Not to talk about where it will be but I think everyone can imagine. I think this signing will happen. Maybe we are also looking for a centre-back. It's not a must but I'm pretty confident that there will be one signing." – Ruben Amorim
Lisandro Martinez's injury has been particularly troubling for Manchester United, with Ruben Amorim expressing concern over its severity and its impact on team morale.
"I think it's a serious situation – it's hard on us. He's a great player and a strong character in the dressing room. It's time for us to help him like he helps us every day. They felt it, when you're a player you know when something is serious. Let's hope for better days for him." – Ruben Amorim
Leave a Reply