Bournemouth executed a well-drilled, aggressive game plan that pressured United high up the pitch, exposing their vulnerabilities. United, still in the early stages of Ruben Amorim's tenure, struggled to adapt to Bournemouth's style, which is exactly what Amorim wants his team to become but hasn't yet achieved.
United have gone 1-0 down in six consecutive games, conceded 17 goals in nine games under Amorim, and have the worst record in the Premier League for conceding from set pieces. These trends highlight defensive fragility and a lack of consistency.
Ruben Amorim has excluded Rashford as part of a broader decision to challenge him to improve his commitment and performance. Amorim wants to see a higher level of application from Rashford before reintegrating him into the squad.
Maguire's contract includes an option for an extra year, but United have not yet triggered it. If they don't, he could negotiate with foreign clubs in January for a free transfer in the summer. Napoli is reportedly interested, and Maguire has expressed a desire to stay, but the situation remains unresolved.
The tour is expected to raise around $10 million, which is crucial for financial calculations. However, it adds to the players' workload after a long season, potentially affecting their rest and pre-season preparations. The club may face criticism for prioritizing revenue over player welfare.
United face Wolves on Boxing Day and Newcastle on December 30th. Both matches are challenging, with Wolves showing improvement under a new manager and Newcastle performing well. United also face Liverpool, Arsenal in the FA Cup, and other tough fixtures, making it a critical period for their season.
Amorim acknowledges the team's struggles but remains confident in his approach. He emphasizes the need for time to implement his vision and has communicated well with the fans, despite the team's poor results in his first nine games.
United have conceded 17 goals in nine games under Amorim, with 42% of those coming from set pieces. The defense is prone to individual errors and lacks the solidity needed to withstand well-drilled attacking teams like Bournemouth.
The stats don't make for pretty reading after Bournemouth won 3-0 at Old Trafford, just as they did on their previous visit. In fact, United are setting all the wrong trends with Ruben Amorim's honeymoon period, if he ever had one, well and truly over.
The Marcus Rashford situation might not be exactly what fans are making of it, but after he was left out of the squad for a third time, it looks like it may take a little while longer before that's resolved.
And, with January on the horizon, Harry Maguire's contract will need addressing or he might leave on a free transfer in the summer. If he does stay on he will probably have to delay any holiday plans, with a tour to Asia mooted.
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