Manchester United faced a disappointing defeat against Tottenham Hotspur, marking the highest expected goals (xG) conceded at Old Trafford in the club’s history. The match ended 0-3, with United significantly outplayed for much of the game.
Tottenham quickly took control, scoring early when Micky van de Ven cut through United’s defense and found an unmarked Brennan Johnson, who easily slotted the ball into the net. United struggled in the first half, frequently sliced apart by Spurs’ attacking play. Their performance only seemed to improve after Bruno Fernandes was sent off in the 42nd minute, leaving them with ten men.
Throughout the match, United faced a barrage of shots, conceding a staggering 24 attempts, with ten of those on target. Goalkeeper Andre Onana was forced into several crucial saves, preventing an even heavier defeat. According to The Mirror, Tottenham’s dominance was underscored by their xG of 4.67, the highest ever recorded by an away team at Old Trafford in Premier League history.
Dejan Kulusevski was particularly influential for Spurs, creating nine chances—more than any other visiting player in Premier League history at the venue. To highlight the severity of United’s performance, it’s worth noting that Liverpool, when they defeated United 7-0 in March 2023, had an xG of only 2.91. This comparison illustrates just how drastically United’s defense faltered against Tottenham, raising concerns about their current form and strategies.
Overall, the match was a stark reminder of the challenges facing Manchester United, as they continue to struggle against top-tier competition, especially at home. The inability to effectively defend and create scoring opportunities leaves much to be desired for fans and analysts alike, raising questions about the team’s tactical approach moving forward.
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