Manchester United’s Struggles: Amorim’s Frustration with Slow Starts
In the world of football, where every second counts, Manchester United’s recent performance against Everton has left fans and critics alike scratching their heads. The match at Goodison Park was a rollercoaster of emotions, with United clawing back from a 2-0 deficit to secure a 2-2 draw. But the real story here isn’t just about the comeback; it’s about the slow start that put them in that position in the first place.
Ruben Amorim, the head coach of Manchester United, didn’t mince words when he addressed the media after the game. “The worst part is that we have the free men, and we are losing the ball without pressure and we are not doing what we are supposed to do,” Amorim told TNT Sports. His frustration was palpable, and it’s easy to see why. United’s sluggish start allowed Everton to capitalize, with Beto and Abdoulaye Doucouré both finding the back of the net after some questionable defending from the visitors.
It’s not the first time this season that United has found themselves in such a predicament. In fact, Amorim’s team has now scored in the first half just once in their last 11 league games. That solitary goal came from a Bruno Fernandes penalty against Brighton. To make matters worse, United failed to register a single shot in the opening period against Everton. It’s a pattern that’s becoming all too familiar, and one that Amorim is desperate to break.
As the game progressed, United showed signs of life. Bruno Fernandes, ever the talisman, delivered a well-placed free-kick to get United on the scoreboard. Then, Manuel Ugarte, in a moment of brilliance, netted his first goal for the club to level the proceedings. The comeback was on, and for a brief moment, it seemed like United might snatch a victory from the jaws of defeat.
However, the drama didn’t end there. A late penalty for Everton was controversially overturned by VAR, leaving both teams with a point. While the decision was a relief for United, it didn’t mask the underlying issues that have plagued their season. Amorim’s candid admission that he doesn’t yet have the solutions to United’s problems speaks volumes. “I don’t know. If I knew, I would change it,” he said. “We need to focus on day-by-day, we need to survive this season and then think ahead.”
Key Takeaways from the Match
- Manchester United’s slow starts are becoming a recurring issue, with only one first-half goal in their last 11 league games.
- Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte were instrumental in United’s comeback against Everton.
- A late VAR decision overturned a penalty for Everton, resulting in a 2-2 draw.
- United currently languishes in 15th place in the Premier League, having won just one of their last five games.
Looking ahead, United has a busy schedule. They host Ipswich Town on Wednesday before an FA Cup fifth-round clash with Fulham at Old Trafford on Sunday. These matches present an opportunity for United to turn their season around, but it won’t be easy. The pressure is mounting, and Amorim knows that time is of the essence.
As fans, we can only hope that United finds a way to address their slow starts and regain their form. The talent is there, but it’s up to Amorim and his team to unlock their potential. Until then, we’ll be watching closely, hoping for a turnaround that can salvage their season.
Originally Written by: ESPN
