Manchester United extended their winless run to eight matches following a 3-0 Premier League defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford yesterday.
Manager Michael Carrick made four changes to the starting XI against the Cherries, and captain Bruno Fernandes was surprisingly dropped for tactical reasons.
Youri Tielemans operated as the attacking midfielder, but the Belgian ace had a dismal opening half before he was replaced by Matheus Cunha at the break.
Tielemans, signed for £35 million from Aston Villa last summer, has been ever-present in the Red Devils starting line-up despite an inconsistent run of form.
He had his best showing against Leeds United with two fantastic crosses leading to big chances. Bryan Mbeumo capitalised on one of those to open the scoring.
However, this was followed by another subpar performance at Como. Tielemans likewise struggled against Bournemouth, failing to cope with the intense press.
The 29-year-old’s limited mobility has been a cause for concern, and he barely provided an attacking outlet during the opening half, struggling to win regular duels.
Overall, Tielemans lost nine out of 12 duels contested in just 45 minutes. He was also guilty of losing possession 10 times and registered just 14 passes before his substitution.
It was a miserable afternoon for the former Villa star. We believe he must be dropped from the starting XI when the Red Devils take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
After his lacklustre showing, it makes sense for captain Bruno Fernandes to be reinstated in the number 10 role, having been an unused substitute against the Cherries.
Manager Michael Carrick faces the possibility of being sacked in the coming hours. Regardless of who is in charge, Tielemans should make way from the XI this weekend.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com