Ruben Amorim criticizes Manchester United player following draw against Real Sociedad in Europa League
Ruben Amorim took aim at Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot following his side's 1-1 draw with Real Sociedad in the Europa League.
The match, held at the packed Anoeta stadium, saw Manchester United take the lead in the 57th minute through Joshua Zirkzee. However, the game took a turn when United captain Bruno Fernandes was penalized for handling the ball inside the penalty box, allowing Sociedad to equalize with a penalty.
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After the game, Amorim was asked about a critical moment involving Diogo Dalot. During a promising attack, Dalot had possession on the right side, with Rasmus Hojlund making a perfect run into the box. The Dane was well-positioned for a one-on-one chance with the goalkeeper, but Dalot failed to deliver the ball, opting instead to cut inside and play a pass that ultimately broke down the attack. Amorim expressed disappointment with the decision, stating, "The decision was not the best."
Reflecting on the overall performance, Amorim admitted that United had played well up until the penalty decision. "I think we played well until the penalty. But then the penalty changed the momentum of the game," he explained. "After the penalty, I felt the team were a bit tired in the final 20 minutes, which allowed Sociedad to take control."
Amorim highlighted that his side had been in control before the penalty, creating several opportunities, and had looked strong after Zirkzee's goal. "After our goal, we were really good because we were close to scoring a second," he said.
Despite the draw, Amorim noted that his team had been creating chances, even if they didn't always convert them. "Sometimes you don't see it in the xG, but we have great opportunities," he said. "We create transitions and situations, but sometimes we are missing that final touch. In games like this, those moments can make a difference."
Looking ahead, United faces a significant challenge as they return to Premier League action against Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.