Man United suffered a painful defeat at Old Trafford. But a 0–3 scoreline is harsh on Amorim

After a great win against City in the last round, they stumbled against Bournemouth.

Man United went into the match below Bournemouth in the league table. Iraola’s team was in 8th place, while Amorim’s side sat 13th, though only three points separated them.

For nearly 30 minutes, nothing happened. Neither team created much, but in the 29th minute, the deadlock was broken. Bournemouth earned a free kick near the sideline after a foul by Malacia, who has recently spent more time on the bench. Christie swung the ball into the box, where Hoever beat Zirkzee in the air and directed a precise header into the far top corner. Onana didn’t even attempt to dive — no chance of saving it.

That’s when the game really started. United conceded the first goal for the sixth match in a row, which sparked them into action. Before Bournemouth's goal, the hosts had managed only two shots in 29 minutes; in the remaining 16 minutes of the first half, they fired nine. Bruno Fernandes had the best chances, including a few from inside the box.

The second half began with a substitution for United — Malacia was replaced by Yoro. Ten minutes later, Ugarte and Zirkzee made way for Garnacho and Højlund. As a result, Bruno dropped deeper to help build attacks. Amorim noted that in such situations, the captain usually faces the opposition’s goal rather than playing with his back to it. It didn’t help.

Bournemouth scored twice in three minutes. First, Mazraoui conceded a penalty, which Kluivert converted — his fifth of the season. Then, Ouattara surged down the left flank and delivered a low cross to the penalty spot, where Semenyo fired home. Bournemouth led 3–0, and the game was effectively over despite United continuing to create chances. Diallo and Yoro, for instance, had excellent opportunities late in the match.

In the 83rd minute, the broadcast showed fans leaving the stadium in droves. By the end of regular time, the central stands were half-empty. The remaining spectators greeted the final whistle with a chorus of boos.

Published by Patrick Jane
23.12.2024