Manchester United's vulnerability to counter-attacks
- Despite Fulham not creating many clear-cut chances, Manchester United struggled against counter-attacks.
- Manchester United's defensive issues were evident in the match against Fulham.
- The problem of vulnerability to counter-attacks persists for Manchester United.
Old Trafford buzzed with optimism after Manchester United's recent 1-0 victory over Fulham, a stark contrast to the subdued atmosphere following last season's narrow win against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The team's performance, particularly in defensive organization and possession, showcased significant improvement. Between the 25th and 40th minutes, Fulham struggled to penetrate United's final third, managing only one pass compared to United's 60, highlighting a dominant display from Erik Ten Hag's side. Statistical analysis further emphasizes United's strong start to the 2024-25 Premier League campaign. The team recorded the highest possession wins in the final third among all Premier League teams during the opening weekend, surpassing last season's figures. In comparison, Wolverhampton's expected goals (xG) of 2.35 during last year's opener pales against United's current defensive metrics, which indicate a more robust approach to limiting opponent attacks. Despite facing seven direct attacks from Fulham—more than any other Premier League side during the weekend—United's defense held firm. Harry Maguire's crucial interception during a two-on-one counter-attack exemplified the team's resilience. Additionally, Casemiro's proactive pressing and the collective effort to limit Fulham's options demonstrated a commitment to defensive discipline. While Fulham occasionally broke through United's lines, their struggles under pressure were evident. The match served as a promising indicator for United's season ahead, suggesting a more cohesive and competitive squad under Ten Hag's management.