Manchester United didn’t perform poorly in their 1-0 defeat to Bayern Munich. We just weren’t good enough.
The Reds went into the game knowing a result wasn’t likely because all you had to do was look at the form sheet. Bayern Munich may have lost at the weekend, but they’re now unbeaten in the group stages of the Champions League for six years.
Erik ten Hag’s side failed to inspire a real threat against the Bundesliga champions, only to concede a goal in the second half to bury their hopes of qualification for the round of 16.
While United were more compact than usual, the gaps were still exploited by Bayern’s attacking players before Harry Kane set up Kingsley Coman for the game’s only goal which knocked us out of Europe.
Former United midfielder Paul Scholes was vocal before the game about the vulnerabilities of United’s midfield because he deems it a risk to play both Scott McTominay and Bruno Fernandes, who are better in the final third than in more disciplined roles.
The pair were joined in midfield by Sofyan Amrabat, who was selected ahead of Kobbie Mainoo, but Scholes wasn’t in full agreement over that decision from Erik ten Hag.
“Tonight, again, I asked the question about playing Mainoo in midfield alongside Amrabat in centre midfield because I’m really worried about that area of the pitch,” he told TNT Sports, as quoted by Utd District.
“They’ve been so open in that area of the pitch. McTominay doesn’t play with discipline. Bruno Fernandes doesn’t play with discipline.
“Now, on the other hand, McTominay gets goals, but he’s playing against Bayern and trying to go toe to toe with them. It’s a dangerous game because Manchester United won’t play against a team like this in England; not a chance. These are top-quality teams.”
Fernandes is suspended for Saturday’s trip to Anfield so it remains to be seen who will start in midfield for United.
Get the latest Manchester United news, opinion, interviews and exclusive features with the Stretty Newsletter – Ad Free! Kick off your afternoon with the Stretty News verdict on all matters Manchester United.
