Manchester United will go to the Europa League final devoid of momentum after another Premier League loss, 0-1 to Chelsea, leaving them one short of 40 points with a game to play.
It was a game of few clear-cut chances in the first half as except for Harry Maguire netting from a marginally offside position, both teams huffed and puffed to no avail.
The second half continued in the same vein as talking points remained few and far between until Cucurella headed in Chelsea’s opener in the 70th minute.
United didn’t look like they’d come back into the game and Chelsea looked happy to go away with a win
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Here’s how the players rated-
Man Utd player ratings
Andre Onana – 5
Saved once from Palmer’s shot but parried it straight into a dangerous area. Uncomfortable building from the back and almost conceded a penalty.
Victor Lindelof – 7
Won some foot races in the channels to repel danger as Chelsea improved with time.
Harry Maguire – 8
Was a scorer again with a striker’s finish before offside prevented it. Bossing both boxes and set to be a key figure in the UEL final.
Luke Shaw – 6
Rarely involved as Amad’s side became United’s main attacking outlet. Could have done more to combine with Dorgu out wide.
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Noussair Mazraoui – 6
Shifty with the ball in attack and a willing tackler in defence. Could have done better to deal with Cucurella for Chelsea’s opener.
Patrick Dorgu – 6
Found himself in threatening positions often but his final ball has deserted him. Too eager in defence which leads to him getting bypassed easily at times but effort can’t be faulted.
Bruno Fernandes – 7.5
United’s best chances came through his penetrative passing, both short and long.
Casemiro – 7
Brought his Europa League form to the league as Amorim’s tactical tweaks continue to help him find a second wind at Old Trafford.
Mason Mount – 5
Tried to do too much, perhaps the boos were getting to him. It meant he wasn’t at his smart and intelligent best.
Amad – 6.5
One of his weaker games as he ran at the defence but he’s clearly a marked man now. Chelsea denied him space and time and he had to force things.
Rasmus Hojlund – 2
Peripheral and wasted the odd occasion when the ball was played to him. Amorim might have to go creative and drop him for the final at this rate.
Substitutes
Alejandro Garnacho – 6
Not much impact as Chelsea closed space behind the defence after taking the lead.
Manuel Ugarte – 5
Kept the play ticking but more adventure was needed. Booked after a reckless challenge.
Ayden Heaven – 6
Returned from injury in a no-fuss cameo.
Kobbie Mainoo – 5
Lost the ball in a dangerous area during his short time on the pitch.