Manchester United suffered a fourth defeat in five games in all competitions, as Bayern Munich beat Erik ten Hag’s side 4-3 in their opening game of the Champions League. Harry Kane was on the scoresheet as the German giants poured more misery on Manchester United, who have had a shocking start to the new campaign.
Here are five things we learned from the game.
ONANA’S BLUNDER UNDERMINED UNITED’S GOOD START
Embed from Getty ImagesManchester United had started the game brightly at the Allianz Arena. Christian Eriksen was denied from close range in the fourth minute, and Rashford was looking like a huge threat on United’s left hand side. Bayern were struggling to get going. Until the 27th minute, former Manchester City winger Leroy Sane exchanged passes with Harry Kane. Kane laid it off for Sane who went for goal, with his shot lacking power. His effort wriggled into the net under goalkeeper Andre Onana, and Bayern Munich had the lead.
A horrible error for Onana who fronted up responsibility after the game when speaking to the media. A mistake which led to the game opening up into a seven-goal thriller, but for Onana – it was a big mistake in a huge game for Manchester United.
UNITED’S ISSUES CONTINUE
Embed from Getty ImagesThere is an argument to say that Manchester United have been second best in every game they have played this season. In their two only wins against Wolves and Nottingham Forest, United were exposed on the counter attack, ran over in midfield, but just about recovered the game on both occasions to claim three points. Despite scoring three goals against Bayern Munich, Erik ten Hag will still have lots of work to do in training to sort out the defence. United were carved open for Bayern’s second goal.
13 goals conceded in six games is a worrying stat. The next run of games will be crucial for Manchester United as they face Burnley, Crystal Palace in the league and cup, Brentford and Sheffield United. In-between those games, they host Galatasaray in the Champions League.
KANE WAS ALWAYS GOING TO HAVE HIS SAY
Embed from Getty ImagesHarry Kane was always linked with a move to Old Trafford during his time at Spurs, but Bayern Munich won the race for his signature. When the two were drawn in their Champions League group, all eyes were on Harry Kane who would be facing a familiar opponent. He started up front as expected and played well, dropping deep and linking play. Kane bagged a goal from the penalty spot, and set up Sane for the opening goal. Not a bad night’s work for the England captain.
Kane will travel to Old Trafford for the reverse fixture on Matchday six, where the group may already be decided, but he will want to make his mark on home soil again.
POSITIVE UNITED ATTACK
Embed from Getty ImagesRasmus Hojlund and Casemiro were Manchester United’s goal scorers against Bayern Munich. On a night where things did not go well in defence, United had a spring in their step in the final third. After being denied by VAR against Brighton, Hojlund grabbed his first United goal to get them back in the game. Casemiro’s brace may have been too little too late, however through Marcus Rashford, they found some joy on the left hand side.
Although sometimes the final ball lacked, but United have demonstrated that they can score goals this season, but are still missing key attacking players like Mason Mount, Anthony and Jadon Sancho. United’s extensive injury list may be having a heavy effect on performances, but United will still have confidence. They will need to respond to the defeat in Germany if they want to progress to the knockout stages.
MUSIALA MAGIC
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English born Jamal Musiala is one of the brightest young players in European football. His wonderful goal won the Bundesliga for Bayern Munich last season in dramatic style. Musiala provided a beautiful assist for Serge Gnabry for Munich’s second goal against Manchester United.
The 20 year-old turned away from both Casemiro and Eriksen, dribbled down the left wing, beat Diogo Dalot by cutting inside and picked out Gnabry who finished first time beyond Onana. A brilliant piece of skill and a mesmerising driving run opened up the space which was made by his intelligent turn. A true talent who turned down the chance to play for England and decided to play for Germany instead on the international stage. He was signed on a free transfer from Chelsea in 2019. One of many talented players Chelsea let slip through their fingers.
