Manchester United seem to have acquired a special skill – Don’t capitalise when rivals drop points! 10-man Bournemouth managed to frustrate a Manchester United which lacked clinical finishing, produced wasteful crossing and continued to disappoint in the league.
Lineups:
Manchester United clearly missed the presence of Mkhitaryan whose combination with Mata has proven deadly for United’s opponents in recent times. Luke Shaw started after a gap of what seems like years and Carrick assisted Pogba in midfield. Surman had a game to forget with his second yellow while Boruc showed that Old Trafford is a great place for keepers.
No Ibrahimovic, No Victory
Manchester United have been a one man army this season in terms of goals scored. Despite having a great line of performances individually, United lack a goal scoring threat barring Zlatan Ibrahimovic. A bad day at the office for Zlatan means the goals from the wingers and central attacking midfielders are basically non-existent. Wayne Rooney missed a chance from a Valencia cross while Martial missed two good opportunities. Mata wasn’t his best self-today and the link with Mkhitaryan was clearly missing. There can be no better stress on the need for a goal scoring forward or winger who’s been linked for a while now – Griezmann.
Pogba needs to be less adventurous
The world record boy wonder must focus more on being less flashy and instead stick to the basics. Priorities like a new hair cut every game must be switched to focusing more on regular attempts at goal rather than adventurous bicycle shot attempts. A little more composure in the box could’ve seen United score at least two goals through him. While the chances created were in a good number (4) the overall long ball play was shambolic.
Wasteful and disorganised:
United did not attempt to play through crosses for a while. When they decided to, they ended up being wasteful and rushed into getting the ball into the box. Despite having an average if not a bad defensive record, Bournemouth ensured that United’s attempts into crossing into the box would be in vain. United’s players either overestimated their front runners or their ability to land the ball in a dangerous position inside the box. Either way, the crossing was pathetic and did not help United’s quest in winning the game.
Goalkeepers are under a spell at Old Trafford
It’s not just De Gea. Every keeper at Old Trafford seems to be getting some influence to perform like Manuel Neuer in every game here. Lee Grant, Jakupovic and now Boruc! Keepers have managed to successfully demonstrate world class performances at Old Trafford, thereby ruining any chances that would’ve mostly led to wins given another day.
Conclusion
It now seems to be a matter of who deserves fifth rather than top four. United have failed to capitalise in every game this season. Taking their chances when others slipped would’ve guaranteed a minimum of the second place. United need to find a solution when Zlatan doesn’t score. The penalty that wasn’t converted doesn’t help the case either.
Statistics: Squawka
