18 touches, 2 shots – Rasmus Højlund gets the praise, but “catalyst” Manchester United star must start vs Man City

Although Rasmus Højlund will garner all the praise against FC Plzen, there is another Manchester United star who must start vs Man City.

Manchester United battled to a 2-1 triumph over FC Viktoria Plzeň in the Europa League, with Rasmus Højlund netting twice to deliver a dramatic win for Rúben Amorim’s team.

United began the match controlling possession but struggled to capitalize, as sloppy passing and poor communication allowed Plzeň to remain untroubled for much of the first half.

Read More: “I told them…” FC Plzen boss reveals tactic that embarasses Manchester United star, it almost worked

The game shifted early in the second half when André Onana’s blunder gifted the hosts an unexpected lead. United responded quickly, with Amad Diallo dazzling the defense on a solo run before his shot was saved, only for Højlund to bury the rebound.

As the match neared its conclusion, Mason Mount had a golden opportunity to score but couldn’t find the target. Just as the game seemed destined for a draw, Bruno Fernandes produced another moment of magic, delivering an inch-perfect assist that Højlund converted for the winner in the final minutes.

The result pushes United into the top eight of the Europa League standings, strengthening their position to avoid the play-off stage next year.

Man United’s main catalyst

While Højlund will no doubt be praised for his two goals, as he should be, MUTV pundit Ben Thornley singled out Mason Mount for his fantastic performance off the bench instead.

Thornley explained that Mount’s 29-minute cameo off the bench was the main reason for a shift in momentum heading United’s way, being the “main catalyst” on the night, saying he hopes Mount starts against Manchester City this weekend.

He said: “Every time he goes on to that pitch, I’m so desperate, wanting him to do well and I’m sure he is, along with his family, and anybody else that is a Mason Mount supporter.

“I think he was was the main catalyst for United, when we went a goal down today and I hope he plays on Sunday.”

Mount’s time is finally starting

Mason Mount signed for United from Chelsea in a £45 million deal in 2023, but a series of injury problems have left the player failing to make an impact.

However, coach Amorim praised the 25-year-old for his attitude last month: “Mason Mount… I have to tell you I love that kid,” providing hope for his future at the club.

“You can look in his eyes that he wants this so bad. And this is the most important thing for me.

“I know he was suffering from injuries, he was not on the pitch, but now he’s trying to stay fit and we hope he can continue to be fit, to show all the talent that he’s shown, for example, in Chelsea.”

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