Manchester United’s return to Premier League action at Stamford Bridge ended in heartbreak as they suffered a dramatic 4-3 loss to Chelsea. United endured a horror beginning, conceding to Conor Gallagher within five minutes, followed by a second from Chelsea soon after. Alejandro Garnacho was the spark United needed, pulling one back before Bruno Fernandes levelled in the 38th minute. Garnacho completed the comeback with a header from Antony’s cross which was supposed to be enough for United to win the match. But Ten Hag’s side not only did not win it, the team conceded two late goals in added time as Chelsea managed to escape with all three points.
Garnacho continues to impress
The 19-year-old winger, back on the left flank with Marcus Rashford absent, was United’s standout. His composure in front of goal was evident, as he scored twice and played a key role in Fernandes’ equaliser. Garnacho’s rapid rise to prominence has made him a pivotal player for Ten Hag’s side and it looks like he could be getting more and more opportunities, but also becoming more and more important in the way United play. After this strong performance from the young Argentine, it will be important for him to keep working hard. It is at this age that players often have their inconsistencies that could hamper them and their confidence. Garnacho should be wary of that.
Casemiro looks off the pace
Casemiro had a game to forget, struggling with his work rate and defensive contributions. The Brazilian was repeatedly caught out of position, allowing Chelsea to exploit the space he was leaving behind, as has often been the case this season. Former Real Madrid player’s decline continues, and United may need to find a replacement for the once-dominant midfielder. This summer transfer window seems like the perfect opportunity to do such thing.
Defensive crisis worsens for Ten Hag
United’s defensive woes worsened as both Jonny Evans and Raphael Varane were forced off with injuries, adding to an already depleted backline. With Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof also sidelined, Ten Hag is left with Harry Maguire and the recently returned Willy Kambwala as his only options. Reinforcements in defence are a must for the summer, but now it will be crucial to see how will United fare in the games to come. New signings could only come in the summer, which will make things even more complicated for Ten Hag’s struggling team.
Champions League hopes dashed
United’s faint hopes of securing Champions League football are over. Needing a win to keep their dream alive, they threw away the match in the dying minutes, with Cole Palmer converting a penalty before a deflected goal sealed their fate. Ten Hag will be furious, as all the hard work was undone in a matter of minutes, and the loss is a major setback ahead of their next game against Liverpool.