Cristiano Ronaldo’s run of scoring in three consecutive matches since his Manchester United return came to an end.
And so did his unbeaten record against Aston Villa, with the away side winning 1-0 at Old Trafford.
Ronaldo has sent a message out in reaction to the loss. He intends to put the situation right quickly.
United’s miserable day was compounded by Bruno Fernandes missing an injury time penalty.
Ronaldo stepped aside to let Fernandes take it. He may not do so next time.
Losing was a major blow for United with the unbeaten start to the league season coming to an end in the sixth game.
United had scored nine goals in the opening two home league games this season, before drawing a blank here.
Spaces opened up early in the game and United looked bright at times but could not take advantage.
Villa grew into the game and scored a late goal in the 88th minute.
Fernandes’ missed penalty to equalise rubbed salt in the wound and compounded a miserable day in which the team lost Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire to injury.
Villarreal at home is up next and that may not be a fun evening on the evidence of the last two home games. United are under pressure and need leaders like Ronaldo to step up.
- Manchester United fans respond to ‘Glazer family considering selling stake’ claims
- Diogo Dalot explains why Ruben Amorim was such an ‘important’ head coach for Man Utd
- Jurgen Klinsmann thinks nobody can ‘change’ something Bruno Fernandes does as player, including Michael Carrick
- Italian press claim Man Utd have made contact for Rafael Leao, as Iliman Ndiaye added to shortlist
- Man Utd ready to offer another extension after sealing permanent future of Michael Carrick’s staff
- Sir Jim Ratcliffe can take advantage of Man Utd takeover clause as Glazer family considers sale
- Tom Heaton makes the same point as Mainoo and Maguire after finalising Man Utd contract extension
- Ederson will pass Man Utd test with flying colours after ‘mental strength’ revelation
- Man Utd make Brentford’s Igor Thiago an exception in search for new striker
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
