Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with Real Sociedad means next Thursday has become season-defining.
With the campaign all but over for Manchester United domestically, progression in the Europa League is the only chance of giving the team something to fight for after the international break.
Ruben Amorim is aware of this, and following United’s 1-1 draw with Sociedad he admitted to the press his side must keep fit during Sunday’s clash with Arsenal.
“The key will be surviving physically for Sunday [against Arsenal] and to be ready and fresh for Thursday.”
The star of the show for United was Joshua Zirkzee as his goal looked to have claimed a big win for the Red Devils until a controversial penalty went Real Sociedad’s way.
On the flip side, Diogo Dalot was United’s worst performer in the game as he left fans frustrated with his decision-making.
There was one player, however, who was almost flawless in red.
Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Thursday saw huge importance placed on Matthijs de Ligt, as the Dutchman moved into the central centre-back role in the absence of Harry Maguire through injury.
The 25-year-old was sensational for United and had an almost flawless game in which he barely let Sociedad create anything in an attacking sense
StatVs. SociedadMinutes90Accurate passes33/35 (94%)Touches43Tackles1/2 Last man tackles1Clearances3Defensive actions 6Recoveries3Ground duels won 3Aerial duels won3
De Ligt stopped everything for United, establishing himself further as United’s premier defender right now.
This summer should see a central defender signed by United, with Juan Gimenez emerging as one name Ineos want to sign, however, De Ligt is one player we can safely lock in for next season already.
It was a good night for United, with only a suspect penalty preventing the win, while the performance was also impressive.
Afterwards, De Ligt took to Instagram with a message to the fanbase, looking forward to next week’s second leg.
“Part II next week. Let’s do it together!”
To this post, Zirkzee responded to De Ligt, saying: “Maatje van me”, which means ‘Buddy of mine’ in English.
The Dutch pair do seem very close and it is great to see as both continue to grow into the shirt and become leaders within this new United side.
