Five things learned as Manchester United defeat Wolves 1-0 (Premier League)

Manchester United made it three wins in a row on Saturday afternoon, moving into the top-four for the first time this season as they beat Wolves 1-0.

Here are five things learned from the victory:

1) Diogo Dalot’s presence is starting to be missed

Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s resurgence back into Erik ten Hag’s plans in recent weeks is a story many would’ve believed to have happened. However, with the injury to first-team regular Diogo Dalot, Wan-Bissaka has been given a chance to impress Ten Hag in a run of games. 

The right-back has been one of the stand-out performers since the return to domestic football after the World Cup, and has even eased concerns about the need to dip into the January window for a suitable backup for Dalot.

Nevertheless, the scepticalness in Wan-Bissaka’s limitations as a footballer by Erik ten Hag were evident against Wolves. 

Wolves’ low-block set-up was of much frustration to United throughout the game, as it always is. Still, Wan-Bissaka’s inability to offer as an outlet or even create any sustainable chances when on the ball was at the detriment to his team, specifically on the right flank. 

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2) Erik ten Hag needs a striker, ASAP

If it wasn’t clear before, it is now; Manchester United need a striker. 

Despite the attacking endeavours from Ten Hag’s side in the last few games, throughout the match today, United were able to carve out multiple chances for their attackers. Still, chance after chance, Anthony Martial, Antony and Alejandro Garnacho could not finish the flurry if opportunities presented to them. 

It’s been no secret about Ten Hag’s desire to bring in a forward this window. 

The chase for Cody Gakpo was tedious, and eventually, he signed for the Red Devils’ biggest rivals, Liverpool. João Félix has been a name brought up by the masses, but financial limitations might scupper the deal. Whoever it is, Ten Hag needs them quick because even a more imposing figure than someone like Anthony Elanga could lift this attack. 

3) Raphaël Varane: Class is permanent

Despite the pragmatic nature in which Wolves played today, they could still get up the pitch in a direct fashion, and when they did, they threatened. 

With the makeshift defensive line-up that Ten Hag put out again, Raphaël Varane was imperious in his performance. 

The five-time Champions League winner, shone in his intriguing duel with a throwback striker in Diego Costa. He was able to direct the traffic coming his way aerially and on the ground and was at ease when asked to deal with the threat in behind. 

4) Christian Eriksen underwhelmed

Christian Eriksen has been a revelation since he came in on a free transfer, and his importance to Ten Hag’s team has been seen throughout the season so far. 

However, in recent games, the Dane hasn’t been able to display the same majestic impact he has in the first part of the season. 

Today, his role in the midfield became quite redundant. United often skipped the midfield in the build-up and went more direct, especially in the second half. This meant Eriksen’s ability to receive the ball in deeper areas and operate as the progressive passer in the pivot to break the lines was not needed, and his off-ball limitations were exploited. 

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5) Marcus Rashford has the world at his feet 

Marcus Rashford rose to the occasion once again when United needed him most. The England international started on the bench due to “internal disciplinary,” which came to a surprise to many. 

It wasnt long though, before his departure from the starting XI was missed, and at half-time, he was introduced into the game with the objective of winning the game, A mission he took on and succeeded. 

In the 76th minute, a quick one-two with Bruno Fernandes on the edge of the box, as he bundled into the box with a pack of Wolves (players) trying to stop his efforts, but a sharp finish through José Sá’s legs was enough to win United the game. 

The hyperbole around Rashofrd right now is truly deserved.