In a gripping yet strained encounter at Doosan Arena, Manchester United clinched a 2-1 victory over Viktoria Plzeň, marking their first away win in Europe since March 2023. Despite the win, the performance raised numerous questions about the team’s readiness under new head coach, Ruben Amorim. The match encapsulated an ongoing struggle within the squad, revealing both glimpses of potential and stark areas in need of improvement.
Rasmus Højlund emerged as the unforeseen hero, scoring two late goals, including a dramatic 88th-minute winner. His contribution not only secured vital points but also cast a spotlight on his growing importance within the United setup. For the Danish striker, the night was a validation of his skills, contrasting sharply with the overall lackluster display from his teammates throughout much of the game.
Onana’s Ongoing Challenges
One of the most pressing concerns coming out of the match is the form of goalkeeper André Onana. His error, which allowed Plzeň to take an early lead, mirrors earlier mistakes made against Nottingham Forest just days before. It is becoming increasingly evident that complacency and errors in judgement are hindering United’s momentum. The pressure on Onana is palpable, and while Højlund’s goals provided a cushion, it’s crucial for the team to build a solid defensive foundation moving forward.
Head coach Amorim, while relieved at securing the win, noted the need for improvement. “It was not a great game but we managed to do these good things,” he reflected. This sentiment was shared by many supporters who left the stadium thinking about the daunting task in front of them — a derby against Manchester City looming on the horizon.
The match laid bare the issues in United’s midfield dynamics and attacking cohesion. The first half was disjointed, marked by a lack of urgency and too many misplaced passes. The bobbly nature of the pitch contributed to the overall ineffectiveness, and the resulting frustration was evident in the players’ demeanors. Amorim’s mission to rectify these issues since taking the helm appears ongoing, with player turnovers hinting at a deeper systemic problem within the squad.
Joshua Zirkzee, tasked with leading the attack, struggled significantly, losing possession 19 times before being substituted. His repeated failure to hold onto the ball cost United dearly, echoing a common pattern in their recent performances. Rashford’s reckless tackle early in the second half added to the woes, raising concerns about discipline and decision-making under pressure.
Against this backdrop of frustration, Højlund’s performance shone brilliantly. Coming on as a substitute in the second half, he made immediate contributions, leveling the score shortly after his entrance and then firing the winner as the match ebbed towards its conclusion. His skillful maneuvering and instinctual strikes evidently display a budding chemistry with teammates like Bruno Fernandes, who provided his second assist of the night with a well-placed free kick.
Notably, Højlund is becoming a pivotal figure for United, evidenced by his current status as the competition’s top scorer with five goals in six Europa League matches. It’s encouraging for fans and management alike to have a young talent who can rise to the occasion, especially in crucial moments.
As United gear up for their next challenge against Manchester City, Amorim must harness the positives from this match while addressing the multitude of issues the team faces. Confidence will be paramount, but it cannot overshadow the urgent need for tactical improvements and enhanced cohesion. The upcoming encounter against City will serve as a litmus test for whether United can truly compete at a high level or if they remain mired in inconsistency.
Ultimately, while the late victory and Højlund’s heroics provide a reason for guarded optimism, the path forward requires rigorous effort. Individual errors, lack of tempo, and inability to maintain discipline represent significant hurdles that must be overcome if United aims to reassert themselves as serious contenders in domestic and European competitions. A win is a win, but it is clear that a deeper commitment to improvement is crucial for the Red Devils as they navigate a challenging season ahead.