The international break is now over, and Manchester United were back in Premier League action on Tuesday night against Nottingham Forest.
It was third against 13th heading into the game, but the game was as closely contested as they come.
Forest got off to a quick start with an excellent run from former Manchester United man Anthony Elanga as he ran the length of the pitch before scoring.
The game was then thrust into an intense back and forth with neither side carving out clear chances, although United hit the cross bar.
During the second-half, United and Forest were dead even, and ultimately a draw would have been the fair result. United can be happy with the display against one of the league’s best this season, while it is a sign that things are improving.
United played well, but just didn’t score which in the end is the decider.
Here are five things learned from the game as Forest walked out 1-0 winners.
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
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Ineos must back Ruben Amorim this summer
Despite the result, one thing which was made crystal clear is that Ruben Amorim will be a success here if he is given the tools he needs.
Therefore Ineos must back the head coach this summer and give him players who have the physical intensity needed to thrive in this system.
This performance is one of the best under Amorim, and the signs are clear that he is building something at the club. Now he just needs the players and club to help him out.
Leny Yoro impressive for United
After recent injury struggles, Leny Yoro returned for United on Tuesday night, and he was once again very solid in defence as he continued to develop and evolve into a top tier defender.
After Elanga had left Noussair Mazraoui in his dust a few times, Yoro was moved to the left side and completely shut down the former United man.
He won all of his tackles and looks increasingly reliable as a central defender for Amorim.
Alejandro Garnacho struggles for Manchester United
Alejandro Garnacho will have been keen to get back to playing after his goal against Leicester City last time out, but it was a night to forget for the Argentine.
Despite a good goal two weeks ago, he left his shooting boots at home on Tuesday night, scuppering countless shots off target.
Garnacho’s decision-making can also be questioned as he took the wrong option more than once to leave his teammates waving their arms around in annoyance.
Diogo Dalot’s redemption arc continues for United
It was just a few short weeks ago that Diogo Dalot was written off as a United player for his continual struggles as a left wing-back.
However, since Patrick Dorgu arrived and took up permanent residence on the left, it has allowed Dalot to revert to his natural right side.
Here, he has looked more comfortable, more dangerous and has been back at the levels which made him a favourite under Erik ten Hag.
Ruben Amorim’s system is getting there
After a hellish start to life in Manchester, Tuesday saw the recent upward trajectory in performances continue by Amorim’s Red Devils.
There was some really good football on display by United, with a clear designed play style and recognisable patterns of play which the players seem to now be understanding.
The final product was still lacking, but that will come with improved players and confidence from these better displays.
United are getting there, slowly but surely.