Manchester United faced Real Sociedad on Thursday in the first leg of the Europa League round of 16.
Having completed the league phase without a loss, Manchester United advanced to the knockout stage of the Europa League, commencing their journey towards the final against Real Sociedad.
Following a tense first half, United gained the advantage in the second half when Joshua Zirkzee netted his sixth goal of the season, assisted by Alejandro Garnacho.
This goal was well-deserved, as United exhibited solid defensive play and created numerous opportunities, suggesting that the scoreline should have reflected a greater margin than just 1-0 at that point.
Real Sociedad equalized in the 70th minute, converting a penalty awarded for a handball by Bruno Fernandes.
The match concluded with a 1-1 draw between United and Sociedad.
Joshua Zirkzee continues to grow into Manchester United shirt
Following a challenging beginning to his tenure in Manchester, marked by the crowd at Old Trafford expressing their relief at his departure from the field, Zirkzee has gradually begun to adapt to his role.
This positive trajectory was evident on Thursday night, as he delivered a commendable performance against Real Sociedad.
Zirkzee netted his sixth goal of the season, a strike that the goalkeeper ought to have prevented, yet it served as a much-needed boost to the Dutch player’s confidence.
He has emerged as a key player for Amorim.
Diogo Dalot upgrade needed this summer
One of the most apparent concerns highlighted by the match was the urgent necessity for United to seek an upgrade over Diogo Dalot during the upcoming summer transfer window.
In the 19th minute, a swift counterattack placed United in a two-on-two scenario, with Dalot in possession on the right flank. All that was required of the full-back was to deliver a pass to Hojlund, who was onside and had already outmaneuvered his defender.
However, Dalot hesitated, turned back, and opted for a backward pass, effectively stifling the attack. This moment is not an isolated case and underscores the distinction between a traditional full-back and a wing-back, leaving Hojlund visibly frustrated.
Amorim would benefit from acquiring a player such as Geovany Quenda or Roger Fernandes this summer, as their addition could elevate the team’s performance significantly.
Casemiro rolls back the years for United
Casemiro returned to Spain on Thursday evening, having spent a significant portion of his playing career with Real Madrid.
Facing a well-known rival and a comparable pace of play, the Brazilian exhibited a transformation from the player who had disappointed fans for much of the last 18 months.
He was consistently victorious in duels, asserting his dominance in the midfield and taking advantage of the slower rhythm at which Sociedad was operating.
Manchester United set themselves up well for second leg
In Europe, the initial match played away from home necessitates a steadfast commitment to avoiding defeat and securing a favorable outcome to bring back to Old Trafford for the subsequent week.
On Thursday night, United achieved this objective by drawing 1-1 with Sociedad, a result that can be regarded as satisfactory, especially given that their performance warranted even greater success.
Next week, United must capitalize on their home advantage to conclude the tie effectively. However, Amorim is in a strong position.
Ruben Amorim will be pleased with United’s display
Although United did not secure a victory, their performance should provide Amorim with ample reasons for optimism, as it appears his team is beginning to grasp his tactical approach.
United created the majority of opportunities, and with improved finishing and decision-making, they could have effectively sealed the match in the first half.
This season focuses on United’s adaptation to Amorim’s methods and laying the groundwork for the 2025/26 campaign. With these encouraging signs, supporters can start to understand the vision and anticipate what lies ahead under the head coach.