9.2 rating, 8 touches in opp. box – Rúben Amorim found his perfect Manchester United star vs Bodo/Glimt

Rúben Amorim has found his perfect Manchester United star as they defeated Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday afternoon.

Rúben Amorim celebrated his first victory as Manchester United‘s head coach with a thrilling win over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday evening.

Making his managerial debut at Old Trafford, Amorim saw United take an explosive start as Alejandro Garnacho scored within the opening minute, capitalising on relentless pressing from Rasmus Højlund.

Read More: “The best one…” – Ruben Amorim highlights incredible impact of one Man Utd star vs Bode/Glimt

The visitors responded swiftly, scoring two goals within 25 minutes, putting United on the back foot. However, Højlund levelled the game just before half-time with a moment of brilliance, expertly controlling the ball before firing it home.

The second half saw United reclaim their lead as Højlund netted his second of the night, capping off a fluid attacking move orchestrated by Mason Mount and Manuel Ugarte, with the latter delivering the decisive assist.

Bodo/Glimt pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing stages, but André Onana’s outstanding saves ensured United held on for their second Europa League triumph of the campaign.

Rasmus Højlund’s brilliant display

Starting for the first time under Amorim, Højlund was nothing short of perfect during the Europa League tie.

Scoring twice and providing an assist, Højlund was powerful, quick, intelligent, and followed his coach’s instructions to a tee, showcasing his talents and the type of striker he can become to the world.

Beyond his brace and assist, Højlund also touched the ball eight times in the opposition area and completed 12 of his 15 attempted passes, earning a 9.2 rating on FotMob’s scoring algorithm.

Although he only touched the ball 29 times across the 90 minutes, he was as effective as possible, winning four duels and drawing two fouls during crucial moments to stop Bodo/Glimt’s momentum.

The perfect Amorim player

Højlund’s efforts during his first start for his new head coach proved that he can become Amorim’s perfect player for the system he is implementing at United.

With the Danish international drawing comparisons to Sporting striker Viktor Gyökeres, Højlund’s willingness to listen, learn, and adapt throughout the 90 minutes. However, Amorim still has tips for him to improve.

“I think he improved the connection,” Amorim said of Højlund after the game. “I think he has to improve more because sometimes he gives too many touches when he holds the ball.

“But he’s really important for us because when we are in the low block he is the guy to hold the ball, to connect for transitions, he did that very well, he has that characteristic, he was aggressive in the goals, he was aggressive in the box and he is a quality player.

“I think he scores the most difficult goals so he has a lot to improve. Is the same for every player but he did a great job today.”

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