Manchester United’s profligacy in front of goal cost them two points on Sunday as the Red Devils were held to a 1-1 draw by Chelsea despite creating the better openings.
In fact, it was the hosts who took the lead at Old Trafford only to get pegged back five minutes later, a frequent occurrence this season that incoming manager Ruben Amorim must fix.
The team lacked any real composure in midfield and in the final third with gilt-edged chances being spurned by Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes.
The wingers inability to score regularly coupled with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee’s poor form means the Portuguese tactician’s first priority will be to try and help the team rediscover their touch up front.
Goals have been hard to find
Antony’s future remains up in the air as does Amad Diallo, whose contract ends in 2025, while INEOS are open to moving on Rashford if he cannot re-find his mojo under the new boss.
This is why the Sporting Lisbon manager wants help in the transfer market and is said to be eyeing a sensational move for a “special talent” who can “light up Old Trafford” — Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
The Georgian, who excels on the left wing, already has five goals this season, more than Rashford, and two assists, while in the last two seasons, he netted a total of 27 times while registering 26 assists.
And his impressive form at Naples has alerted multiple Premier League teams to his availability with CaughtOffside claiming the Arsenal, and Liverpool have joined the 20-time English league champions in the race.
Napoli want to hold on to the 23-year-old and are in talks over a new deal with his current contract ending in 2027. But the winger’s camp has been insistent on including a release clause, something the Serie A club are yet to agree.
“CaughtOffside sources have suggested that he is already eyeing a “special talent” who will “light up Old Trafford.” Although Napoli are believed to have put a £90m price tag on Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s head, Amorim is keen to land the Georgian ace.
Kvaratskhelia chase heating up
“Sources have also advanced that although the 23-year-old is in talks with Napoli regarding extending his contract, they are currently at an impasse.
“It’s understood that the Partnopei are not willing to accede to a low release clause insisted upon by the agent, no doubt with a view to the player being sold at a later date – with a fee much more attractive to potential buying clubs.
“Arsenal and Liverpool are also keeping tabs on what is a developing situation for a winger who is known for his offensive skills and creativity.”
Rashford and Antony’s sale could hand INEOS the budget to go after Kvaratskhelia but for now, Amorim needs to try and get the existing attackers to fire. The lack of goals needs to be addressed if the club are to end the season on a high.
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
