Manchester United suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday evening after former United player Anthony Elanga’s early goal proved decisive.
Despite the setback, defender Diogo Dalot felt that this side's overall performance showcased significant promise. Speaking to MUTV after the match, Dalot noted that the Reds had created enough chances and dominated several phases of the game, emphasising that the result was sometimes the “price you pay” in competitive fixtures.
Reflecting On The Performance
Dalot was quick to point out the positives from the game.
“*I think we did enough to win the game. We had very good moments, created a lot of chances, and I think enough chances to win this game. It’s the price sometimes you pay in this type of level, in these types of competitions. Sometimes a little distraction, lack of focus, can be really decisive, and today it was.*”
Signs Of Improvement
The Portugal international stressed that the performance, despite the result, is an encouraging sign for **Manchester United**’s trajectory.
“*Overall, I think we are improving. We are playing better, controlling more games in possession and without possession, so that is something positive that we can take for the coming games.*”
Dalot expressed hope that by building on these encouraging displays, consistency in results and victories would soon follow - an essential factor for the club’s ambitions in the Premier League and other major competitions.
Looking Ahead To Crucial Fixtures
With a high-stakes clash against Manchester City looming this Sunday at Old Trafford, Dalot highlighted the necessity of maintaining this improved level of play.
“If we want to be competitive in the future, we have to start behaving like this and we have to perform like this. But these little bits will have to come first if you want to compete for the Premier League and the biggest titles, we have to start creating these habits and try to be consistent on that, and then I think the results will come by themselves.
*"We still have to suffer a little bit, but in terms of getting out of this situation and trying to improve, I think we are on the right track.*”
The Derby Focus
As if the pressure from a poor domestic season wasn’t enough, Dalot acknowledged the additional intensity of the upcoming derby.
“*I don’t think there’s much to say. It’s a derby. We have to win it, play with our fans. I think the atmosphere will be unbelievable.*”
Despite a poor run of domestic form, belief keeps growing in this United side according to Dalot. The coming weeks could prove to be pivotal in shaping the remainder of the Reds’ season.