Manchester United were disappointed again after a Champions League fixture – but there were certainly positives to take.
The Red Devils drew 3-3 to Galatasaray, in what was a Champions League classic. Erik ten Hag‘s side fought bravely in the intimidating RAMS park, but ultimately goalkeeping mistakes cost them.
However, much like the performance in the Premier League against Everton, Manchester United did play well. They created a plethora of chances and scored some quite brilliant goals.
The goals are the most important thing. United have been starved all season of the ball hitting the back of the net.
Manchester United are scoring goals again
With six goals in two games for Manchester United – things are looking up.
Prior to these fixtures, goals have been few and far between at Old Trafford this season. What was particularly demoralising were the stats of the forwards, particularly in the Premier League.
It was only Marcus Rashford who had any goal contributions – but that has firmly changed over the past week.
Alejandro Garnacho has now found his goalscoring touch. He has two in two. Rashford also added another to his tally. It’s good to see going forward.
So why the sudden change in goalscoring form? Well, a lot of it can be put down to a returnee. The common denominator in both of these fixtures? The return of Luke Shaw.
Luke Shaw creates so much for Manchester United
In the Galatasaray clash, a moment of brilliance that went overlooked was for the Bruno Fernandes strike.
Right on the byline, Shaw provides a delicate outside-of-the-foot flicked pass to open up space for the Portuguese Magnifico – who rifled one passed a helpless Fernando Muslera.
Along with this, a lot of what was good for United came down that left-hand side, with the English full-back linking up brilliantly with Garnacho.
His presence going forward was also felt greatly at Goodison Park. Shaw’s ability going forward, but also competency at the back gives United so much more freedom to drive up the left wing, which led to a much more dynamic way of attacking.
This is something United haven’t had. Diogo Dalot always looked awkward at left-back, which made that side very weak.
Shaws’ presence is a comforting one for United, seemingly allowing other players to thrive in their positions knowing that the left-hand side will be locked down. We think he’s been a missing link for some time.
He’s been one of Manchester United’s most important players for years now and is proving just that once again since his return. Good to have you back, Luke.
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