In theory, getting a draw away from Old Trafford is fine for Manchester United.
How Ruben Amorim’s side managed to fumble the win in Lyon after being outplayed by their Ligue 1 counterparts for a lot of the match only further infuriates an already exasperated fanbase.
This Europa League fixture ended in a draw. On the whole, this result is largely fair. United had the chance to have the clear second-leg advantage. For the second massive blunder of the day, André Onana’s goalkeeping error directly led to a goal.
Same story for Amorim’s side
He is coming under a lot of scrutiny. This is particularly true after his comments leading up to the match. Nemanja Matić also fed into this angle, but that should have been the end of it. Instead, a drawn-out aspect will now hang over the club for the week following the 2-2 ending. This will be particularly true if the ‘better’ squad is eliminated next week.
Another glaring aspect was Rasmus Højlund’s play. It’s often hard for a forward to make an impact when his team can’t find consistent possession in the final third. The fact remains that the attack looks stronger with Joshua Zirkzee.
The Dutch player found the back of the net. His link-up play is ultimately what separates him from the Danish forward at this particular moment. Granted, Zirkzee has done well coming off the bench. Some struggle to carry over their form. More minutes on the pitch don’t always mean more quality time on the field. Sometimes, being the punch off the bench and starting is too much of a difference.
Need to do what’s best to ensure trophy hopes
At this point, Amorim needs to play the best fits in his system. Højlund isn’t playing well at the moment. Keeping him up top during Premier League matches would be fine. Giving him EPL appearances could result in him finding his form. He could regain his confidence against the likes of Wolves or West Ham.
For the critical Europa League, however, Amorim can’t afford to exclude Zirkzee from the starting XI. Next Thursday, Man Utd need to find a way to advance. Fresh off scoring a goal, the 23-year-old deserves to play from the opening whistle.
Either way, regardless of what the United boss decides, it just needs to be better. Aside from the Onana mistakes, the defenders were once again too involved. Lyon had more of the possession and more shots. In truth, them conceding the second goal was completely against the run of play.
Underwhelming Man United product
Even if Amorim finds a way to guide his side into the next round, a lot needs to be improved. Onana made his statements. Regardless, United need to show that they are able to comfortably get a result in the secondary European competition.
Granted, the past years have shown that nothing can be assumed at this club. Still, considering the on-paper gap and amount spent on this roster, it should be close against any UEL competition. Yet, Man Utd now find themselves in a battle. Avoiding a quarter-final knockout is a must. Amorim may be focused on what’s next, but even he will be shocked at how this latest fixture unfolded.
