5 Things Learned: Manchester United 1-0 Omonia (Europa League)

Manchester United followed on from their win over Everton by putting together another impressive showing hosting Omonia Nicosia at Old Trafford.

United were extremely dominant from the moment the game kicked off, only going into half-time level due to boyhood United fan Francis Uzoho’s heroics in goal.

The pressure finally paid off, with Scott McTominay scoring right at the death to provide United with what was a much deserved win.

Here are five things UtdDistrict learnt from United’s 1-0 victory over Omonia:

#1: Marcus Rashford is playing with a chip on his shoulder

Exclusion from the final England squad before the World Cup seems to have lit a fire in Marcus Rashford’s belly.

With mere weeks left before the final squad to travel to Qatar is announced, Rashford is absolutely desperate to be on that plane and he is certainly playing like it.

A few missed chances were simply a by-product of his relentlessness tonight, and the threat he carried should without a doubt earn him a spot in the squad if he keeps this up.

#2: Tyrell Malacia fights back

After a couple of difficult outings for Tyrell Malacia he was dropped this past Sunday against Everton for Luke Shaw, who impressed in the game.

Tonight, Tyrell Malacia had a really strong performance in response to his recent struggles, showcasing his excellent mentality.

He came to United with a nickname of “The Pitbull” and tonight he showed why the moniker was given to him. Shaw should still start against Newcastle, but Malacia is keeping him on his toes.

#3: 3-1-6 shape improves United

Once again, Manchester United deployed a 3-1-6 shape in possession. Once again, United sustained pressure on their opponents excellently.

In games where United will dominate the ball, this is the best formation for the side to use due to the number of options the attacking players constantly have.

#4: United need to be far more clinical

The performance was positive, but not entirely positive. United missed a LOT of chances in this match, even with the keeper’s heroics it was concerning.

The side haven’t been clinical enough this season and tonight was one of the worst cases of that. Erik ten Hag mentioned before the game they needed to score, and the players didn’t respond well enough to the call.

#5: Casemiro dominates

After winning Player of the Match at Goodison Park, Casemiro stamped his authority on United’s midfield to even greater effect at Old Trafford.

He is not scared to hide from the ball and completes some very impressive passes, his defensive reading of the game is some of the best Old Trafford has ever seen and he even offers a goal threat.

On top of all of this, Casemiro is a real leader. He may not be the same kind of number six United initially targeted, but he still brings so much to this team. Now that he is properly in it, he should not leave it.