Manchester United’s recent defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion revealed numerous issues in their midfield. Christian Eriksen failed to make an impact, while Andre Onana made a costly mistake.
In addition, controversial VAR decisions changed the face of the game. This article examines the issues surrounding Man Utd’s midfield, analysing their defensive mistakes and the VAR controversy.
Key Takeaways
– Casemiro’s vulnerability in the midfield was evident, particularly against Jamal Musiala and Harry Kane.
– Christian Eriksen struggled to find his role in Man Utd’s midfield and his defensive weaknesses were exposed.
– Late substitutions by Ten Hag, including bringing on Martial and Garnacho too late, could be regretted.
– Defensive mistakes, including a costly error by Onana and a goal resulting from Musiala’s impressive run, highlight the need for improvement in the defense.
Midfield Issues
Casemiro’s defensive weaknesses were exposed in Man Utd’s midfield as Jamal Musiala continuously took him on. His isolation was due to Harry Kane dropping deeper, adding to the challenge.
Sofyan Amrabat’s availability will help burden Casemiro’s responsibility.
Christian Eriksen also struggled in the midfield, with his role hard to define, and his defensive vulnerabilities were exposed. A VAR decision to award a penalty after the ball struck Eriksen’s hand further fuelled controversy and sealed the game for Man Utd.
Defensive mistakes, such as Onana’s terrible error, also played a part in the defeat.
Ten Hag’s failure to introduce Martial and Garnacho until the 80th minute could also be a regret.
Christian Eriksen’s Performance
Eriksen’s difficulties in adapting to Man Utd’s midfield were evident throughout the game. His role was hard to define, leaving him exposed defensively. He was the closest player to Dayot Upamecano when the penalty decision was made, showing his lack of protection. His defensive vulnerabilities were exposed as he was often left isolated with Jamal Musiala continuously taking him on.
This further added to the challenge presented by Harry Kane dropping deeper. Eriksen looked out of place in a side with Bruno Fernandes as the main creator, and his performance was a far cry from his usual standard.
Late Substitutions
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer waited until the 80th minute to introduce Martial and Garnacho, rarely making late substitutions. Ten Hag’s bench included three goalkeepers and three teenagers, which contributed to the delay. This was too late for Garnacho, as Man Utd conceded two goals before his introduction.
Martial looked bright off the bench, however it may have been too late to salvage any points. Ten Hag could regret not bringing them on earlier, as it could have helped to limit Man Utd’s defensive mistakes. The defensive line needs to improve in order to prevent errors such as Onana’s mistake for Sane’s goal.
Defensive Mistakes
Andre Onana’s error allowed Leroy Sane’s strike to go through, resulting in a costly defensive mistake. The mistake occurred in the match between Man Utd and Bayern Munich, where the German side eventually won the match.
Onana’s mistake allowed Sane’s strike to go through, while they conceded a second goal just four minutes later. Bayern’s Jamal Musiala’s incredible run led to Gnabry’s goal, which was a decisive moment in the match.
The defense overall needs to improve to prevent such mistakes, as the consequences can be severe. Man Utd’s defense is a key area that needs to be addressed if they are to have success in the future.
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