9/10 duels lost, 0 shots, 0 dribbles, 0 tackles: this calamitous United star took centre stage in club’s collapse vs Chelsea

Manchester United slipped to a 1-0 loss against Chelsea on Friday evening at Stamford Bridge.

Marc Cucurella’s headed goal in the second half was all that could separate the two sides and condemn the Red Devils to an 18th loss of the Premier League season.

United remain in 16th place in the table and are yet to reach 40 points, with just one top-flight match left to play.

It’s the first time United have gone eight consecutive league games without a victory. This latest disappointing result means that United will end a Premier League campaign without winning back-to-back league games for the first time ever in the competition.

Manchester United will end a Premier League season without winning back-to-back league games for the first time EVER in the competition.

WLLWDLDWLDWDWLLWLLLDWLWLLDWDWLDLLDLLL

While this is the first time in Premier League history that they’ve gone eight consecutive league games… pic.twitter.com/sjPaTomXfF

— Squawka (@Squawka) May 16, 2025

To say it has been a shocking season would be a massive understatement.

Rasmus Hojlund once again delivered a disappointing performance and was undoubtedly the worst player on the pitch at Stamford Bridge.

Needless to say, he didn’t manage a goal or an assist. In fact, he didn’t fire a single shot, not even off target. That’s how unimpactful he was. You’d expect more from your striker.

He didn’t embark on a single dribble, spending most of his time battling the Chelsea defenders, who had the beating of him time and time again.

The Dane found his teammates with 11 of the 18 passes he attempted (61% pass accuracy). None was a key pass. He didn’t aim a long ball or a cross.

Hojlund delved into six ground duels. He was beaten on every occasion. He vied for four aerial challenges, coming out on top just once.

The 22-year-old ceded possession back to the hosts 13 times and committed two fouls.

He failed to make a tackle or clearance and intercepted the ball just once.

(Stats obtained from Sofascore)

It’s an embarrassment that he lasted 90 minutes. As the summer window approaches, United should be doing everything in their power to offload Hojlund. Cut your losses and move on. He’s not fit to wear the shirt.

Featured image by Shaun Botterill via Getty Images


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Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!

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