Manchester United ran out winners over 90 minutes against Real Sociedad but needed two goals to secure top spot in the group.
Alejandro Garnacho gave Erik ten Hag’s men the lead in the first half but United failed to really grab a hold of proceedings in Spain and the hosts could quite comfortably see the 90 minutes out.
Quite spectacularly, Ten Hag abandoned the style we have grown accustomed to in the second half and switched to a three-at-the-back system, with Harry Maguire sent on for the final stretch to battle in the air.
Unfortunately, there was no late winner this time and United will now settle for a place in the play-off stages where they will face one of the teams dropping out of the Champions League.
Man United Player Ratings
David de Gea – 8
Made a number of spectacular saves. A mind-boggling double save at the end of the first half was memorable.
Diogo Dalot – 7
Continues to perform well.
Victor Lindelof – 8
Solid defensively throughout, replaced in the second half.
Lisandro Martinez – 8
Booked in the second half for a reckless challenge. Will now miss the first leg of the round of 32.
Luke Shaw – 7
Looks to be returning to the Shaw that received endless praise a couple of seasons ago. Could have added more in the final third, however.
Casemiro – 7
All in all, a decent performance.
Christian Eriksen – 6
Not dominating games as he did before but still a positive injection.
Alejandro Garnacho – 7
Fearless star on the left, we’ve seen that one before. Fantastic finish to score his first goal for United.
Donny van de Beek – 5
First start of the season and first start for United since 2021. And you could tell.
Bruno Fernandes – 6
An unfamiliar role on the right-hand side and it did not suit him at all.
Cristiano Ronaldo – 6
Perfect pass from the 37-year-old to set up Garnacho.
