Manchester United secured a dramatic late win against Rangers in the Europa League, but the performance exposed glaring issues that Ruben Amorim must urgently address.
Bruno Fernandes’s last-minute goal saved the team’s blushes after a chaotic game marred by defensive lapses and lackluster creativity. The victory kept United unbeaten in the competition, yet fans and critics alike are questioning whether this is sustainable.
Bruno Fernandes was Manchester United’s savior once again. His decisive strike in injury time brought Old Trafford to its feet, but it wasn’t a polished performance by any means.
Jack Butland’s earlier own goal gave United the lead in bizarre fashion, only for Cyriel Dessers to equalize late in the game, capitalizing on Harry Maguire’s missed header. Fernandes’s last-minute heroics might have stolen the spotlight, but the bigger picture is troubling.
Fragility at the Back
Manchester United’s defensive woes were on full display. Despite fielding a backline that included seasoned players like Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt, the team lacked composure under pressure.
Rangers exploited this with pinpoint crosses and quick counter-attacks. Jack Butland’s unfortunate punch into his own net highlighted the shaky confidence in the defense. If not for some key saves from Altay Bayindir, the result could have been far worse.
Harry Maguire’s introduction in the second half added a touch of stability but also led to critical moments of vulnerability. Rangers’ equalizer was a direct result of poor defensive organization. For a club with ambitions of returning to Europe’s elite, such lapses are unacceptable.
Ruben Amorim’s midfield selections have come under scrutiny. Toby Collyer, making only his third start for the club, struggled to impose himself. Rangers seized on his inexperience, turning over possession and creating multiple opportunities. Christian Eriksen offered moments of class, including a well-taken corner that led to Butland’s own goal, but consistency was lacking.
Bruno Fernandes on TNT after scoring Manchester United’s winner vs Rangers.
“We want to get through to the final in Bilbao. It’s not about the character. We have to prove that in the 90 minutes. I hope that our fans never get used to losing games.”pic.twitter.com/uSPCDiMb9P
— Kyama (@ElijahKyama_) January 23, 2025
The introduction of Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo late in the game brought some energy, but it was too little, too late. United’s midfield lacked coherence and a clear game plan, leaving fans frustrated at the lack of control and creativity.
United’s attack continues to underwhelm. Joshua Zirkzee showed glimpses of brilliance with a few sharp runs and a well-executed spin on the left wing. However, he lacked support. Alejandro Garnacho’s efforts were deflected, and Amad Diallo’s corners failed to create meaningful chances.
Even Fernandes, despite his game-winning goal, struggled to influence the game consistently. The team’s inability to dominate in the final third leaves serious questions about their offensive strategy. For all their possession – a dominant 67% – United managed only seven attempts on target. This inefficiency will cost them against stronger opponents.
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To their credit, Rangers performed admirably. Captain James Tavernier’s deliveries from set-pieces consistently troubled United’s defense, and Ridvan Yilmaz was a constant menace on the wing. Cyriel Dessers’s equalizer was a moment of brilliance, and Rangers were unlucky not to leave Old Trafford with at least a point. The Scottish side exposed United’s weaknesses and provided a blueprint for future opponents.
Amorim’s Mixed Start
Ruben Amorim’s tenure at Manchester United has been far from smooth. This victory was only his sixth win in 16 games, and the team’s lack of identity is glaring. Amorim’s comments about the players’ nerves at Old Trafford have raised eyebrows, with critics suggesting that such statements undermine confidence.
The boss had plenty of praise for @B_Fernandes8 following Thursday night’s win #MUFC || #UEL
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 24, 2025
The upcoming match against Fulham offers another chance for Amorim to turn things around, but Marco Silva’s well-organized side could easily expose United’s frailties. Fans will be looking for a more convincing performance as the team continues its fight for consistency.
Key Stats Highlight the Struggle
The statistics from the Rangers match underline United’s challenges:
- Possession: United dominated with 67%, but it didn’t translate into control.
- Attempts: Only seven on target out of 10 total, reflecting a lack of cutting edge.
- Corners: United’s five corners produced minimal danger.
- Fouls: Committing 14 fouls showed their defensive struggles.
These numbers paint a picture of a team that is far from its best.
What Needs to Change?
To move forward, Manchester United must address several critical issues:
- Defensive Stability: A more disciplined and cohesive backline is essential. Maguire and De Ligt need to step up as leaders.
- Midfield Control: The team must find a balance between experience and youth. Players like Casemiro and Eriksen should take on more responsibility.
- Attacking Cohesion: The forwards need better service and clearer patterns of play. Fernandes, Garnacho, and Zirkzee must form a stronger understanding.
- Amorim’s Strategy: The coach must establish a clear tactical identity. Without it, inconsistency will remain.
United’s win against Rangers may have papered over the cracks, but the problems remain. With tougher fixtures on the horizon, including Sunday’s clash against Fulham, the pressure on Ruben Amorim is mounting. Fans will hope that this last-gasp victory serves as a turning point rather than a fleeting moment of relief.
Manchester United has the talent to succeed, but time is running out to find the consistency needed to make this season a success. Can Amorim and his players rise to the challenge, or will the cracks deepen? The answer will shape the club’s immediate future.
