Manchester United‘s season maintained a familiar theme as they were defeated 2-1 by Valencia at the Mestalla in the Champions League.
Juventus were also defeated 2-1 by Young Boys in the other Group H game but United’s result meant the Italians’ still finished top.
Carlos Soler opened the scoring in the 17th minute while Phil Jones stabbed one into his own net early in the second half.
Marcus Rashford pulled one back for United in the 87th minute but it was too little too late.
Here is our report card from the clash.
THE GOOD
For Valencia – Keeping their shape
Scoring goals has been a problem for Valencia this season, fortunately they were helped out by United in that regard. Defensively though, only Atletico Madrid boast a better record in La Liga and you can see why. Marcelino’s side are well-drilled and rarely caught out of position. In truth, United did little to cause them problems so once they went a goal ahead, they were always likely to win.
For United – Substitutes?
There’s little to choose from for the Reds but surely the only glimmer of positivity came from the bench. Ashley Young and Rashford offered a notable improvement in attack and even combined for a goal in the last 10 minutes with the striker nodding home the former’s cross.
Rashford took on Valencia’s defence.
THE BAD
For Valencia – Striker
Valencia should’ve had more goals in this game. United’s defence is suspect and in this fixture, they fielded a makeshift backline which afforded the opposition every opportunity. Unfortunately for them, Michy Batshuayi was equally disappointing in front of goal, missing a header from inside the six-yard box in the first half. He went on to register four shots, none of which tested the keeper despite coming from good positions.
Michy Batshuayi disappointed.
For United – Blunt attack
The team sheet said it all. Romelu Lukaku started up front and was flanked by Andreas Pereira and Juan Mata, both good players but completely lacking in pace. In the absence of Marcus Rashford or the injured Anthony Martial, United posed little to no threat going forward. Lukaku meanwhile, had zero shots.
TACTICAL TALKING POINT
Misfits in midfield
Nemanja Matic is overworked to the extent it’s affected his performances massively this season. It’s evident now why Jose Mourinho is reluctant to afford the Serbian a rest. Missing in action this time, Marouane Fellaini started in holding midfield but wasn’t in his element. He kept things tidy but didn’t really direct play and was easily bypassed. Meanwhile, Pogba seems to be lacking confidence and missed a sitter in the first half. Fred was afforded a rare start and did not take his opportunity, misplacing simple passes.
Paul Pogba continues to struggle for form.
GRADING
For Valencia: B
They can be pleased with a rather solid display, booking their place in the Europa League. Hardly stretched by an ineffective United attack.
For United: D
It’s just another in a long line of disappointing results for United this season. Barely competing with La Liga relegation battlers – at this moment at least – is a new low.
