Manchester United showcased their big-game mentality yet again, claiming a point from their 1-1 draw against Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Given the sheer number of injuries, Ruben Amorim had said prior to the game that his team needed to survive against the Gunners and initially, it did look like they would have to hold on tight to get something from the game.
But after Bruno Fernandes’ stunning opener, the Red Devils roared into the game in the second half and they should have claimed all three points considering the chances they had.
In hindsight, the head coach would have been better served bringing on Chido Obi instead of Rasmus Hojlund, who spurned two gilt-edged chances towards the end of the game.
Great from Mazraoui
One of the best performers for the hosts was Noussair Mazraoui, who arguably had his best game at right wingback. He was sensational in the second 45 minutes, bombing forward at will.
The full-back combined to great effect with marauding attacker Alejandro Garnacho and both showed great understanding at times, which will please the coach.
United’s counter-attacking style suited the Moroccan, who had a huge chance in the 54th minute to make matters sure but was superbly denied by David Raya.
The former Bayern Munich star had 39 touches of the ball and completed 17 out of 21 passes, ending the game with a 81 percent pass completion rate.
Impressive going forward
Most impressively, he completed three key passes while creating one huge chance right at the death for the skipper, who was once again denied by the Arsenal goalkeeper.
He had a 100 percent dribble completion rate and also won one free-kick. Defensively solid as well, the 27-year-old won three ground duels and all his aerial duels.
Mazraoui also completed three clearances and two interceptions (all stats from sofascore) and the home side will feel they should have gone on to win the contest on the night.
Amorim will demand more of the same on Thursday against Real Sociedad from all his players in what will be a season-defining fixture for the Red Devils.
Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
