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Manchester United did not comprise Arsenal’s risk from set-pieces and finally succumbed to a 0-2 defeat on the Emirates on Wednesday.
This was Ruben Amorim’s first defeat since taking cost and searching again, he could have instructed his team to attack more contemplating how below-par the hosts seemed from open play, particularly within the first half.
Nonetheless, the Gunners gained 13 corners to United’s 0 and that was what finally turned the sport of their favour, one thing the guests ought to have been way more conscious of.
Whereas the attacking gamers had been nearly invisible, the defenders put up fairly an excellent shift and Matthijs de Ligt got here as shut as any to serving to the Purple Devils cut back the deficit.
De Ligt had United’s greatest likelihood of the sport
His highly effective header from a looping free-kick from Bruno Fernandes was fantastically saved by David Raya. He has emerged as one in all United’s potent weapons from set-pieces.
The Netherlands worldwide needed to endure a tricky begin to life as a United participant however in opposition to Mikel Arteta’s males, he seemed calm and composed regardless of enjoying in two completely different positions throughout the 90 minutes.
He began as the proper centre-back and as soon as Leny Yoro got here on for his debut, the previous Bayern Munich man shifted again to the center.
This was one in all his greatest shows in purple and the truth that it got here beneath attempting circumstances will do his confidence a world of fine transferring ahead.
The 25-year-old was good on the ball, ending the sport with a 91% passing accuracy, finishing 50 out of 55 passes whereas having 66 touches.
De Ligt had an excellent recreation defensively
Three of his 5 tried lengthy balls discovered their mark in addition to he tried to launch Rasmus Hojlund early however the Dane’s management beneath strain let him down quite a few occasions.
The Dutch star was strong defensively, profitable all his floor and air duels whereas making three clearances and one deal with. He additionally blocked one shot and accomplished one interception (stats by way of sofascore).
With Yoro again, De Ligt is more likely to play within the center extra typically because it fits him much more than enjoying out large the place his lack of tempo would possibly get uncovered at occasions.
Maguire’s return from harm additionally means the boss can now rotate him extra typically and maintain him contemporary with the previous Ajax captain beginning all video games beneath Amorim.
Function picture Shaun Botterill by way of Getty Pictures
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