Manchester United returned to the Premier League action with a thrilling 2-2 draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. It was not a perfect game from the Red Devils, but certain improvements were on display, as Anthony Martial scored twice to make a comeback after Antonio Rudiger’s opener, but it was Ross Barkley who equalized deep into the stoppage time.
In a match of not so great defending, a draw seemed a fitting result, though Man United will definitely feel the late goal. They failed to win consecutive matches and also inflict Chelsea their first loss of the season.
Anthony Martial Proves His Worth
What a match this was from Anthony Martial. When Man United were chasing the result, the Frenchman appeared to solve things and make a complete turnaround. His first goal brought even more energy to the whole, but it was the second one that really showed all Anthony Martial is about.
He controlled the ball well, created the space for himself and shot with great precision to put United in the lead. Whenever he was around the box, he was dangerous and that is why United need to be patient with him. Hopefully Martial’s attitude and performances will be even better, but this is a step in the right direction.
Paul Pogba’s Lack Of Discipline Continues
Paul Pogba had 42 passes, made two interceptions and attempted as many tackles. He won two aerial duels and had one shot on Chelsea’s goal. But it was again the lapse in his concentration at a crucial time that left Man United in the cold. Pogba was late after Chelsea’s corner to follow Antonio Rudiger and it was the German who immediately scored from a free header.
That is a mistake that sometimes happen due to poor communication between players, but this was not it. It was a simple lack of discipline to follow what was agreed before the match. It was everything Pogba was criticized for and these things should not be happening to elite defensive midfielders.
A Draw Is Not So Bad For Man United
Manchester United have lost two points late on and the difference between them and top of the table is growing. But this draw is not so bad. Manchester United can realise from this match that attacking is actually a good thing to do and hurting an in-form Chelsea is a good indicator of what could the Devils do.
The match against Juventus in the Champions League will be a tough one, but this match should instill some new confidence into Man United’s attack.
Chelsea Remind Of Guardiola’s Early Man City
This is not to say Maurizio Sarri’s Chelsea will win the Premier League next season and dominate the league, but there are similarities between this Chelsea and the Pep Guardiola’s Man City from his first season at the club. They will not win the title and they will probably finish behind City some 10 points. Chelsea are currently playing some good football, but the match like this one shows their inconsistency that often comes with teams changing style of play radically. Manchester United truly showed their deficiencies.