Five things we learned as Manchester United draw 2-2 with Leeds

Add as preferred source on Google

Manchester United could only draw 2-2 with Leeds at Old Trafford. Here is a look at five things we learned from the game…

Poor start sets up a difficult game

Manchester United came into the game as heavy favourites against a Leeds side without a manager. An early goal for the home side could have led to a simple win.

Instead it was Leeds who scored the opener, netting after just one minute through Wilfried Gnonto. From then on, it became clear the evening was not going to be as straightforward as Manchester United wanted.

The Red Devils pushed on and saw plenty of possession, but nine efforts at goal in the first 45 minutes with no success.

United began the second half poorly too, conceding in the 48th minute. 2-0 down left Ten Hag’s side with an even bigger mountain to climb.

While the team fought back creditably to claim a 2-2 draw, this was a disappointing result. After equalising in the 70th minute, it was disappointing not to go on and net the winner.

Rashford on the right makes him less effective

There were various ways to replace injured Antony, we looked at six ahead of the game. The player selected to start on the right wing was Marcus Rashford.

This was the only of the six options which took Rashford away from his preferred left-wing position, and United were worse off for it.

Rashford had been in terrific form leading up to the game, with eight goals already in 2023. Taking him away from his preferred position simply makes him less effective.

On a night where United were already missing key players, this appeared to be a rare misjudgement from manager Erik ten Hag.

Rashford’s night only took off when he was moved off the right – into the centre. He scored a well taken header after a cross from Diogo Dalot, netting his 20th goal of the season.

Jadon Sancho scores first goal since September

Jadon Sancho really is back. The 22-year-old started the game on the bench again, before being called upon in the 59th minute, along with Facundo Pellistri.

It was crucial for the winger to make an early impact upon his return to the team, and Sancho chose a great time to re-announce himself, scoring an equaliser to make the game 2-2.

Sancho looked, bright, confident, and made an impact. It won’t be long until he is back in the starting line-up.

Facundo Pellistri’s Premier League debut

Alejandro Garnacho had an unproductive night with three shots and just one on target. The teenager was replaced along with the ineffective Wout Weghorst, with Sancho and Pellistri taking their place.

This double change inspired United’s comeback and Facundo Pellistri made his Premier League debut in the process, with his three previous appearances coming in cup competitions.

Pellistri made a quick impact too, with good work on the right leading to a pass to Dalot which set up Rashford’s goal to get United back into the game.

The Uruguayan was crisp with his passing and gave United good shape down the right. Erik ten Hag was right to keep him.

Weekend fixture will be an even bigger test

This double header against Leeds gives Erik ten Hag’s side an opportunity for quick revenge on Sunday when the teams face off at Elland Road.

This fixture looks a lot tougher after Leeds’ confidence was boosted by their performance. With their fans behind them at the weekend, a very difficult fixture awaits.

They might have a permanent manager in place by Sunday’s game and taking a point at Old Trafford will give them belief they can go one better.