The role of a pundit sometimes allows for a positive assessment of a team’s performance, even in defeat, and Manchester United’s 1-0 loss to Arsenal serves as a compelling illustration.
Despite conceding an early, ultimately decisive goal, United’s performance on Sunday highlighted the effectiveness of their system and the potential impact of their recent acquisitions.
As noted on Match of the Day, their play exhibited greater dynamism and directness, coupled with a notable physical presence.
Critically, the team displayed increased bravery in their attempts to regain possession, a direct result of the enhanced quality within their attacking ranks.
While the result was a loss and a failure to score, Manchester United demonstrably outperformed Arsenal at Old Trafford and have just cause to feel aggrieved by the outcome.
Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha both debuted for United against Arsenal, with fellow summer signing Benjamin Sesko entering the match as a substitute for Mason Mount in the 65th minute.
Manager Ruben Amorim’s commitment to the 3-4-2-1 formation remains steadfast, a structure that was again evident in this fixture.
However, the defining characteristic of United’s approach was a more assertive and proactive mindset, evident both with and without the ball.
Notably, wing-backs Diogo Dalot and Patrick Dorgu maintained advanced positions, further amplified by Amad Diallo’s introduction as a substitute for Dalot early in the second half.
Amorim’s high-pressing strategy against a team of Arsenal’s calibre carried inherent risks, occasionally exposing them to counter-attacks when Arsenal bypassed the press, creating overloads they were unable to fully capitalize on.
Nonetheless, playing at home necessitates a front-footed approach, and United’s willingness to aggressively challenge Arsenal marked a significant departure from their cautious approach against top teams last season, even in victories.
While moments of disarray were apparent, the team’s overall balance and energy levels were commendable.
Sustained progress hinges on consistently exhibiting this positivity, trusting in the attacking players’ ability to convert promising positions into tangible goals.
A heatmap illustrating the combined touches of Man Utd wing-backs Patrick Dorgu, Diogo Dalot and Amad Diallo (who replaced Dalot after 55 minutes)
The club’s recent signings played a pivotal role in the team’s improved performance.
Though only one game, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo demonstrated the qualities United sought in acquiring them.
Mikel Arteta’s tenure at Arsenal has been defined by their ability to control possession and dictate tempo; a hallmark of their success over multiple seasons.
However, this control was conspicuously absent at Old Trafford, a direct result of United’s energy, courage, and proactive approach, which also bolstered their defensive efforts.
The frequent instances of United being dispossessed while playing out from the back, a recurring issue last season, were noticeably absent on Sunday.
Cunha and Mbeumo injected a heightened physical presence into the attack, characterized by pace and a willingness to exploit the space behind Arsenal’s defense.
Man Utd recorded 22 shots against Arsenal on Sunday, their most in a Premier League match against the Gunners since they had 25 in an 8-2 win in August 2011
Last season, United’s forward line lacked impact, failing to instill fear in opposing teams, resulting in them being readily overrun.
The current attacking options possess a confidence and quality that poses a genuine threat to opposition defenses, commanding immediate respect.
This was evident against Arsenal, where the threat of Cunha and Mbeumo prompted Arsenal’s defenders to adopt a deeper defensive line, prioritizing containment over proactively seeking to extend their lead.
The United wing-backs consistently supported the attack, confident in Cunha and Mbeumo’s ability to retain possession, while Mason Mount’s strong performance added another positive dimension.
As the match progressed, the sense of an impending United equalizer grew.
Despite registering 22 shots, the breakthrough eluded them; however, the attack appears significantly more potent, a dynamic that will be further enhanced by Benjamin Sesko’s full integration into the team.
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Arsenal hold on to beat Man Utd after Bayindir error
Of course, questions remain regarding United’s overall composition, particularly in light of the defeat.
The potential need for a central midfielder to succeed Manuel Ugarte or Casemiro is a topic of debate, as their compatibility alongside Bruno Fernandes remains a point of contention, with some advocating for a more physically imposing presence to supplement Fernandes’ skillset.
The goalkeeping situation is also under scrutiny, as highlighted by Altay Bayindir’s costly error leading to Riccardo Calafiori’s decisive goal.
The frustration of conceding such a goal is compounded by its recurrence.
Despite the disappointment, this match provides United with a foundation for future progress.
While results are paramount, demonstrable progress, particularly at this early stage of the season, is equally crucial, and United’s performance offered encouraging signs.
Currently, progress entails the team’s growing familiarity with the manager’s system, the players developing seamless relationships on the pitch, and the seamless integration of new signings.
It also involves moving beyond last season’s struggles and embracing a confident and assertive mindset.
All of these elements were evident against Arsenal.
Despite the loss, they displayed a belief in their ability to win, ensuring that any future opponent will approach them with caution.
Danny Murphy was speaking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan.
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