Manchester United’s turbulent Premier League season continued as they drew 1-1 with Chelsea at Old Trafford, marking their worst league start since the 1986/87 season. Interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, who recently took charge following Erik ten Hag’s departure, celebrated a penalty goal by Bruno Fernandes, but Moises Caicedo’s late equaliser dashed United’s hopes of victory and added pressure to their challenging campaign.
Caicedo spoils party after Fernandes penalty
The Red Devils took the lead in the 70th minute when Bruno Fernandes converted a penalty, awarded after a foul on Rasmus Hojlund. Van Nistelrooy celebrated the goal on the touchline, but the joy was short-lived. Just minutes later, Moises Caicedo capitalised on a defensive lapse and fired in an equaliser from the edge of the box, taking Chelsea into fourth place in the table on goal difference and extending United’s struggles.
Despite a stronger showing compared to previous heavy losses to Liverpool and Tottenham, United still struggled to find consistency. Currently sitting 13th with 12 points from 10 games, they remain six points adrift of the top four and are facing mounting concerns about their league form.
New manager Ruben Amorim prepares for arrival
Ruben Amorim, who is set to replace van Nistelrooy later this month, was not present at Old Trafford, focusing instead on Sporting Lisbon’s upcoming Champions League match against Manchester City. His arrival is eagerly anticipated as United seek stability and a turnaround in their fortunes.
Under van Nistelrooy, United enjoyed some success, recently reaching the League Cup quarter-finals after a 5-2 win over Leicester. However, Sunday’s draw highlighted United’s ongoing issues, particularly in front of goal. Van Nistelrooy acknowledged this challenge, stating, “Over the last games we lost some points where we didn’t convert our chances. When you create a lot, I’m not too worried; players will get in a flow, and results will come.”
Defensive Concerns for Manchester United
Both teams missed early opportunities in a subdued first half. Chelsea’s Noni Madueke and United’s Marcus Rashford struck the woodwork, and in the second half, Chelsea’s Pedro Neto nearly scored with a close-range shot that just missed the post. Despite a resilient midfield effort from Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte, who kept Chelsea’s playmaker Cole Palmer in check, United’s defence faltered in the critical moments leading to Caicedo’s equaliser.
Alejandro Garnacho missed a key chance for United and attempted an acrobatic strike late in the game, but it went over the bar, leaving the home side without a decisive goal. Fernandes’ penalty had given United a glimmer of hope, but Caicedo’s well-placed shot from a corner dashed their lead.
Chelsea’s steady progress under Enzo Maresca
Chelsea’s manager Enzo Maresca praised Caicedo, highlighting the young player’s recent form and adjustment under scrutiny following his high-profile transfer. “Since we arrived Moi is doing fantastic. The problem with Moi is because the club paid big money, people expect them to be the best,” Maresca stated, showing his support for Caicedo’s continued improvement.
Chelsea, who have only one loss in their last nine league games, posed a stiff challenge for United. Their consistency, coupled with United’s vulnerability, underscored the contrasting trajectories of the two sides. Chelsea could have taken all three points when Enzo Fernandez narrowly missed a chance late in the match.
Upward climb for Manchester United
As United’s winless struggles continue, the pressure mounts for van Nistelrooy and his squad to find their footing. With tougher challenges ahead and a new manager on the way, United fans are hopeful for a turnaround that will restore them to a competitive position in the league.
Editor's Pick
Cricket
Robin Uthappa clarifies stance on "Rs 24 lac" PF fraud allegations
Top Stories
DRS, Dec 22: Jadeja teaches Aussie media an "Indian lesson", Champions Trophy tentative schedule out
