2
In yet another horror show performance, Manchester United slumped to an embarrassing 2-1 defeat to West Ham United at the London Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
While Man United’s defence seemed to hold steady throughout the majority of the encounter, the team’s attacking performance was shambolic, Erik ten Hag’s attackers missing a whole host of clear scoring opportunities.
United took 18 shots, with only five on target, while enjoying 57% possession. Still, the defensive lineup disappointed as well, slipping up late in the match to allow the home side to score twice late in the match.
It was Matthijs de Ligt who was at the centre of controversy, bringing down Danny Ings in the box two minutes into second-half stoppage time. Following a lengthy review of the incident at the VAR pitchside monitor, the referee awarded the spot kick, which Jarrod Bowen converted.
Although De Ligt cannot shoulder the full blame for the loss as it was a team effort after all, the rest of his performance did little to provide him with any redemption.
The Dutch defender’s tackling ability was non-existent. He failed to win any of his five ground duels, while also not making a single tackle for the entire match.
He did, however, prove effective in the air, winning three of four aerial duels.
The only defensive actions that he performed were four clearances and an interception. He was also only dribbled past twice.
While his defensive performance was one to forget, De Ligt’s passing was on point. 51 of his 52 passes found their target, making for a 98% passing accuracy.
Still, his passing game was limited as he failed to attempt any crosses or long balls.
Focused entirely on staying back, De Ligt did not take any shots. He also attempted no dribbles.
Ultimately, De Ligt cannot be held solely responsible for United’s loss. The attacking lineup should have done better to convert chances, and the rest of the defence should have been more alert, particularly during West Ham’s first goal. Still, it was a shambolic defensive showing from De Ligt, whose tackling ability and physicality, which he is famous for, were completely absent from the field of play.
(Stats via Sofascore)
Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images