Manchester United failed to contain Arsenal’s threat from set-pieces and eventually succumbed to a 0-2 defeat at the Emirates on Wednesday.
This was Ruben Amorim’s first defeat since taking charge and looking back, he could have instructed his team to attack more considering how below-par the hosts looked from open play, especially in the first half.
However, the Gunners won 13 corners to United’s 0 and that was what ultimately turned the game in their favour, something the visitors should have been much more aware of.
While the attacking players were almost invisible, the defenders put up quite a good shift and Matthijs de Ligt came as close as any to helping the Red Devils reduce the deficit.
De Ligt had United’s best chance of the game
His powerful header from a looping free-kick from Bruno Fernandes was fantastically saved by David Raya. He has emerged as one of United’s potent weapons from set-pieces.
The Netherlands international had to endure a tough start to life as a United player but against Mikel Arteta’s men, he looked calm and composed despite playing in two different positions during the 90 minutes.
He started as the right centre-back and once Leny Yoro came on for his debut, the former Bayern Munich man shifted back to the middle.
This was one of his best displays in red and the fact that it came under trying circumstances will do his confidence a world of good moving forward.
The 25-year-old was good on the ball, ending the game with a 91% passing accuracy, completing 50 out of 55 passes while having 66 touches.
De Ligt had a good game defensively
Three of his five attempted long balls found their mark as well as he tried to release Rasmus Hojlund early but the Dane’s control under pressure let him down numerous times.
The Dutch star was solid defensively, winning all his ground and air duels while making three clearances and one tackle. He also blocked one shot and completed one interception (stats via sofascore).
With Yoro back, De Ligt is likely to play in the middle more often as it suits him a lot more than playing out wide where his lack of pace might get exposed at times.
Maguire’s return from injury also means the boss can now rotate him more often and keep him fresh with the former Ajax captain starting all games under Amorim.
Feature image Shaun Botterill 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
