“A few little things…” Pundit disappointed with two Manchester United stars despite 9/10 displays

Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves explained he was disappointed by two of Rúben Amorim’s players despite their 9/10 performances against Bodo/Glimt.

Rúben Amorim secured his first win as Manchester United manager with a hard-fought victory over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday night.

In his debut on the touchline at Old Trafford, Amorim’s side made a dream start as Alejandro Garnacho opened the scoring within the first minute, following exceptional pressing by Rasmus Højlund.

Read More: Rasmus Højlund reveals Rúben Amorim’s 9-word message that created Manchester United’s third goal

Despite the fast start, Bodo/Glimt turned the game around with two quick goals, leaving United trailing after 25 minutes. Just before the break, Højlund brought the hosts back level with a superbly controlled finish.

The second half saw United regain control, with Højlund striking again to complete his brace. The goal, set up by brilliant interplay between Mason Mount and Manuel Ugarte, proved to be the winner.

As the clock ticked down, Bodo/Glimt pushed for a late equaliser, but André Onana’s heroics between the posts ensured that Amorim’s team claimed their second Europa League win of the season.

Two minor disappointments

Although United scored three on the night, the two goals the side conceded have left a blemish on the result, with it being clear that the players are still going to need some time to adapt to Amorim’s ideal style.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the game, former United midfielder and regular pundit Owen Hargreaves analysed Bodo/Glimt’s first goal, explaining his disappointment in Manuel Ugarte and Noussair Mazraoui.

“Manchester United only got two in midfield there,” he said as they watched Bodo/Glimt build their attack. “A little bit too easy to play through.

“Obviously, we see one of the centre-backs step up. Ugarte fills in for Mazraoui there, and then the cutback is on. But I’ll tell you what, what a finish that is.

“This is what Amorim wants. He wants Mazraoui to step in there. Obviously, he steps in. Ugarte covers for where Mazraoui is meant to be. And where does the ball end up? Exactly where Ugarte was.

“So, a few little things that they’re going to have to work on, especially when people step out, but take nothing away from the finish. It was top drawer.”

Two 9/10 displays

However, Hargreaves was equally as quick to praise Mazraoui for his impact on Højlund’s first goal of the evening. He won the ball after pressing high in midfield and putting in the perfect cross for the Danish striker to control.

The same went for Ugarte for Højlund’s second, as he supplied the 21-year-old with a good cross for Højlund to finish with little extra work needed.

Ugarte and Mazraoui earned 9/10 ratings on UtdDistrict’s player ratings for the fixture, and both deserve equal praise for their performances.

Mazraoui has been one of United’s best players this campaign, while Ugarte is expected to flourish under Amorim, having played 85 times for the Portuguese coach during their period together at Sporting.

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