Manchester United fought West Ham United to a disappointing 1-1 draw at Old Trafford on Saturday. Battle-hardened fans were even more disappointed that the team regressed back into its pattern of inconsistency. The match saw Ruben Amorim’s side concede a late equaliser, allowing West Ham to salvage a point despite United’s early lead. When Diogo Dalot scored within eight second minute of the game, it looked like one-way traffic for the hosts. Soungoutou Magassa blasted home in the 83rd to give the visitors a share of the points.
Manchester United had over 70% possession and registered 42 touches in the opponent’s box. They couldn’t deal with pressure and didn’t have the killer instinct to put away their opportunities. Amorim sounded very unhappy with his players for failing to execute after going up on the scoreboard, calling out their failure to manage the match after going ahead. The 1-1 draw represents another disappointment for United. Indeed, they’ve won just once in their past five top-flight games, having drawn three of those with them leading at various stages.
Lack of Defensive Cohesion
Under Amorim’s management, Manchester United has failed to keep a clean sheet in their last seven games, a streak that stretches back to early October. This disturbing pattern has led to questions about the team’s defensive setup. The manager turned on his players for conceding the all-important “second ball.” This error contributed to their inability to stay on top in the second period.
Manchester United’s leaky back line has been a story all season long, particularly when it comes to defending set-pieces. Since the beginning of last season, only West Ham have shipped more league goals from corners than United. The error that allowed West Ham’s equaliser was a great example of this frailty, players switching off in a set-piece scenario.
“Same old problems. The last three or four games, that sums them up. Not quite doing enough.” – Gary Neville
The criticism from pundits highlights the urgency needed within the squad. With every game, the weight of expectation grows, and supporters become more frustrated with a club of Manchester United’s size underperforming.
A Struggling Squad
The fear behind Manchester United’s players leaves a noticeable mark. Even Diogo Dalot has admitted that this anxiety has put shackles on his teammates, making them play with a fear of failure on the football field. Young himself admitted that in the future, this team must do a better job of dictating the pace of play especially when in their own house.
“Obviously disappointed. We have to control much more of the game, especially at home,” – Diogo Dalot
Gary Neville weighed in on the current state of affairs at Old Trafford, expressing bewilderment at the lack of urgency and intensity displayed by the players.
“I don’t get it, I don’t get the lack of urgency, and the lack of intensity. I don’t get the slow play. I don’t get the lack of risk in the game.” – Gary Neville
Neville further emphasized that players must step up and take risks if they hope to improve their standing in the league.
Pressures of Expectation
Manchester United has been in huge turmoil as of late. Roy Keane observed how the players look “scared” and “panic” in games. He ruthlessly attacked their inability to perform under stress. He argued that these psychological hurdles were damaging their performances.
Keane’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment among former players and fans alike, who feel that Manchester United should be competing at a higher level given their history and resources.
“I don’t see the actual appetite to go and throw your whole life at the game, and everything you’ve got, and throw it forward and take risks.” – Gary Neville
The heat only continues to mount on Amorim and his impressive squad as they look for yet another step forward. At present, he’s only managed 27 points from 20 home matches. Without drastic turnaround they risk missing out on their seasons dreams.
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