Ruben Amorim has a faultless record in Europe since becoming Manchester United head coach, and tonight he received significant help from two impactful substitutions.
The Portuguese coach made it two wins in as many Europa League games in Plzen on Thursday night.
It was United’s first away win in Europe since last March. They had to overcome tricky opponents as Viktoria Plzen piled the pressure on in the first 45 minutes.
In the first half, Manchester United were scrappy, leaving Amorim to appear agitated on the touchline. The Reds still managed to control the game as Plzen failed to create any dangerous chances.
The Reds needed something special after a goalkeeping howler from Andre Onana gifted Plzen the opening goal.
Most of United’s opportunities came through Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes, but two players came on after the interval and changed the game for the better.
Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount stun Plzen
Joshua Zirkzee’s poor hold-up play was a topic of discussion at half-time.
United’s build-up play was too slow and Zirkzee’s team-mates were guilty – at times – of not running into the right areas to receive the ball.
That said, Zirkzee struggled to keep possession and didn’t stand out as a centre-forward.
United improved following the introduction of Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount.
Hojlund’s brace secured a crucial win for United after he became the third United player to score 9+ goals in Europe before turning 22 – following in the footsteps of Marcus Rashford and Wayne Rooney.
Mount had a significant impact on the game after replacing Zirkzee, and was unlucky not to have added two goals of his own. The England international helped United increase the tempo in the final third and will be in contention to start games in the coming weeks.
Hojlund deserves to start in the Manchester derby
Over 34 minutes, Hojlund proved why he should start against Manchester City in the derby on Sunday.
| Shots | 4 |
| Shots on target | 3 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Tackles won | 1/1 |
| Big chances created | 1 |
The Denmark international caused issues for Plzen’s defence, who appeared to be given an easy ride when Zirkzee was on the pitch.
Amorim needs to select his strongest team and that includes Hojlund going on recent form.
City are not in a good place right now – like United – and they’re missing personnel in defence.
It’s the perfect time to hit them where it hurts and Hojlund is enjoying his football at the moment.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
