United Beyond Manchester

As the skies darkened over Old Trafford, the light that was United’s hopes of European competition dimmed. Manchester United fell 1-0 at home to Arsenal to all but end hopes of qualifying for Europe through Premier League placement.

United were solid in the opening period and even created a few half-chances. Unfortunately, the decent start did not continue, and Arsenal found an early lead.

In the 20th minute, Leandro Trossard buried a finish to put Arsenal up 1-0. Casemiro was caught far too deep and played Kai Havertz on, who played the ball to Trossard for the finish.

That goal was all Arsenal needed to hold on to another Premier League clean sheet. Arsenal changed their play style to be a little more cautious at Old Trafford, but it worked in the end as United’s attack sputtered.

Man of the Match

Sofyan Amrabat produced his best performance for Manchester United today despite an overall poor showing for the Reds. Amrabat defended well in the midfield and played a few quality balls to connect play. There were not many positives during today’s match, but Amrabat’s performance was one.

Player Ratings

Starting XI
Andre Onana: 6 – Made some great second-half saves. Not at fault for Arsenal’s goal.
Diogo Dalot: 5 – Decent.
Jonny Evans: 5 – Defended well despite injury.
Casemiro: 3 – Continues to struggle at center back. Played Havertz on for Arsenal’s goal.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka: 5 – Beaten by Trossard to the ball for Arsenal’s goal.
Kobbie Mainoo: 6 – Despite the madness around him, has shown poise each time out.
Scott McTominay: 5 – Did not add much.
Sofyan Amrabat: 6 – Probably his best game for United. Solid defensively and connected play well.
Rasmus Hojlund: 4 – Failed to get into the match again.
Amad Diallo: 5 – Lively but no final product.
Alejandro Garnacho: 5 – Was all over Arsenal but failed to come up with the final pass or needed finish.

Substitutions
Willy Kambwala: 6 – Looked good when he came on.
Antony: 5 – Had a decent moment but failed to get a good shot off.
Ethan Wheatley: Too late to rate.
Christian Eriksen: Too late to rate.
Omari Forson: Too late to rate.

Looking Ahead

Manchester United play Newcastle United on Wednesday before ending the season with Brighton on Sunday. These two matches are critical to building momentum for the FA Cup Final on May 25th. The Final is United’s last chance to get something out of this season and may be the only way into Europe for the Reds.

Drop your thoughts on today’s match in the comments!