Performance at Palace but where are the goals? Europa League preview
Sep 23, 2024
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Laurie Whitwell, an insightful football analyst, joins rising stars Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho. They unpack Manchester United's recent performance at Palace, where strong play didn't convert into goals. Laurie emphasizes the need for players to step up in scoring. The group discusses Garnacho's promising rise to a starting position while previewing the upcoming Europa League match against FC Twente. The conversation reveals the pressure on the team and the excitement of European competition, setting the stage for a gripping season ahead.
Manchester United's recent match against Crystal Palace showcased promising tactics but underlined a critical issue with goal-scoring efficiency.
Manager Erik Ten Hag's decision to bench Marcus Rashford for rotation raised questions about player management and its potential impact on team morale.
The upcoming Europa League match against FC Twente is crucial for Manchester United to regain confidence and momentum following a frustrating domestic result.
Deep dives
Frustration After the Draw
The recent match between Manchester United and Crystal Palace ended in a frustrating nil-nil draw. In the first half, United showcased their potential with a convincing performance, demonstrating a clear understanding of Ten Hag's tactics. Players were creating chances and Dean Henderson made several critical saves, but the second half saw a decline in energy and effectiveness. Despite the positive aspects of the first half, the overall result left fans feeling disheartened, especially against a Palace team perceived to be weaker than in previous seasons.
Missed Opportunities and Scoring Woes
Manchester United's ongoing struggle to convert chances has become a significant worry for the team, especially following the match against Crystal Palace. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, United has only scored five goals in the current season, leaving them with a notable deficit in the expected goals metric. The team has been unable to score despite having players like Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and others who are expected to deliver goals. This inefficiency in front of goal continues to plague United, raising concerns about their ability to compete effectively in the league.
Tactical Decisions Under Scrutiny
Manager Erik Ten Hag's decision to bench key player Marcus Rashford for the match against Crystal Palace sparked much debate. While Ten Hag explained that the choice was part of a rotation strategy, many questioned the logic behind resting a player in good form. The decision had the potential to affect team morale, particularly following Rashford's recent scoring prowess. The discussion surrounding this tactical choice reflects broader concerns about player management and the team’s ability to maintain momentum during a demanding schedule.
Garnaccio's Rising Influence
Young player Alejandro Garnaccio has begun to establish himself as a key component of Manchester United's attacking strategy. His performance in previous matches, highlighted by a goal-scoring ability and a proactive approach on the pitch, suggests he could become one of the standout players this season. Despite facing challenges and still developing his game, Garnaccio consistently demonstrates the talent and energy needed to impact games positively. As Ten Hag looks to strengthen the squad, Garnaccio's contributions could prove vital in achieving the team's goals moving forward.
Looking Ahead to Europa League Challenges
Manchester United is preparing to kick off their Europa League campaign against FC Twente, with the match seen as critical for building team confidence. Following a disappointing domestic result, securing a win in Europe is essential to shift the current narrative around the team. Twente, a club with historical ties to Ten Hag, is expected to provide a formidable challenge, especially given their aspirations and strong performances in the domestic league. As United seeks to return to winning ways, the upcoming match presents an opportunity to regain momentum and engage fans moving forward.
The performance of Erik Ten Hag's side at Crystal Palace was, according to Laurie Whitwell, the most complete of his tenure. Yet, in order to be actually complete, the team need to put the ball in the net. Who's going to stick their hand up?
Marcus Rashford might have been high on your list of names there, but he was named on the bench at Selhurst Park. Rotated, not dropped, and Alejandro Garnacho deserved his chance to start.
Erik Ten Hag's boyhood team, FC Twente, will be the visitors in Wednesday's Europa League opener: it's a match that absolutely doesn't matter given the format of this year's competition. Yet, after the Palace result, this one does matter, and Andy says we should target this trophy.