Manchester United claimed a much-needed point on the board when overseeing a 1-1 draw with Arsenal on Sunday.
It was a spirited display from the Red Devils throughout the night, particularly in the second half when they were looking to build on Bruno Fernandes’ scintillating free-kick on the cusp of the interval. He has proven invaluable time and time again this season – as has been the case during his entire United tenure.
“I will say, we need more Brunos. The character he has, the availability is so important, and he is so decisive with and without the ball,” said Ruben Amorim when the full-time whistle had blown.
The Gunners clawed their way back into the tie via Declan Rice in the 74th minute, after which neither side were able to add to their tallies, leaving the spoils to be shared.
It leaves Arsenal 15 points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool, having now dropped points in three successive matches.
Meanwhile, United remain on their uphill battle to oversee a top-half finish – currently sitting 14th-placed after yesterday’s stalemate. Eight points separate the Reds and Fulham in 10th, giving Amorim and his men a mountain to climb from now until May. If you want to watch the side in action during their quest, click here for match tickets.
“I think we did well,” Amorim reacted. “Of course, we don’t want to play like this defending so much and giving the ball to the opponent. With all the games and characteristics of the players. [Victor] Lindelof for example without a lot of games. Casemiro is more comfortable in this sort of game.”
How Mikel Arteta reacted to United vs Arsenal stalemate
As for Mikel Arteta, he was left in a foul mood when addressing reporters post-match, so much so that he stormed out of his interview with Sky Sports after being pressed on Arsenal’s chances of closing the gap on Liverpool.
Assuming they don’t, which is now looking incredibly likely, it’ll mark a third campaign on the bounce that Arsenal have fallen short and finished in second place, with their only chance of silverware now the Champions League – a trophy they’ve yet to win in their history.
Elsewhere, Amorim will today be turning his attention to Thursday’s Europa League last-16 second-leg tie against Real Sociedad. United then travel to face 19th-placed Leicester City on Sunday, meaning they’ll reunite with former coach – an ex-interim boss – Ruud van Nistelrooy at the King Power.
