Fans were primarily concerned about United’s defeat, mainly due to City’s apparent control throughout the match, marked by Erling Haaland’s controversial penalty kick for the lead in the first half.
Key players like Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho, Anthony Martial, Mason Mount, Antony, among others, have been struggling to make an impact this season. None of these players have registered a goal or an assist in any competition they’ve participated in. Marcus Rashford, previously scoring 30 goals in all competitions last season, has only converted 2.3% of his shots into goals in the Premier League this term.
United’s seven losses this season haven’t solely been attributed to on-field performance. Injuries to vital players continue to disrupt the squad, while defensive issues persist, evident in Victor Lindelof’s deployment as a left-back despite being unsuited to the role.
Injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia will sideline them for Erik ten Hag’s team in the Carabao Cup fourth-round against Newcastle. Shaw, recovering from a muscular injury since August, is expected back by late November, with Malacia following a similar recovery schedule.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s hamstring injury keeps him out of contention, leaving Diogo Dalot with ongoing responsibilities.
The long-term foot injury to Lisandro Martinez is a further concern for the central defense. Although Martinez’s abilities were questioned earlier, he proved his talent during Ten Hag’s first productive year as head coach.
The absence of Raphael Varane from the starting eleven against City raises strategic concerns. Varane’s history of injuries adds to the uncertainty.
Casemiro’s ankle issue prevents him from starting in midfield, leaving Sofyan Amrabat, the lone defensive-minded midfielder at Ten Hag’s disposal, to continue playing for a struggling United side.
Ten Hag decided to forego a news conference on Wednesday, focusing solely on training. He aims to use the extra time on the field to prepare for a Newcastle team under Eddie Howe, currently in good goal-scoring form.
